CA2716810A1 - Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement - Google Patents
Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement Download PDFInfo
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- CA2716810A1 CA2716810A1 CA2716810A CA2716810A CA2716810A1 CA 2716810 A1 CA2716810 A1 CA 2716810A1 CA 2716810 A CA2716810 A CA 2716810A CA 2716810 A CA2716810 A CA 2716810A CA 2716810 A1 CA2716810 A1 CA 2716810A1
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- nozzles
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- printhead module
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- 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
- B41J2/21—Ink jet for multi-colour printing
- B41J2/2132—Print quality control characterised by dot disposition, e.g. for reducing white stripes or banding
- B41J2/2135—Alignment of dots
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- 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
- B41J29/393—Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine ; Controlling or analysing mechanical parameters involving printing of test patterns
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
- G06K15/00—Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data, e.g. computer output printers
- G06K15/02—Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data, e.g. computer output printers using printers
- G06K15/10—Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data, e.g. computer output printers using printers by matrix printers
- G06K15/102—Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data, e.g. computer output printers using printers by matrix printers using ink jet print heads
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Quality & Reliability (AREA)
- Mathematical Physics (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
- Ink Jet (AREA)
Abstract
A method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of: (a) determining the rotational displacement; (b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement; and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Description
Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a method of compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead or printhead module.
The invention has primarily been developed for use in a pagewidth inkjet printer comprising a printer controller and a printhead having one or more printhead modules, and will be described with reference to this example.
However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to any particular type of printing technology, and is not limited to use in, for example, pagewidth and inkjet printing.
CROSS-REFERENCES
Various methods, systems and apparatus relating to the present invention are disclosed in the following co-pending applications filed by the applicant or assignee of the present invention. The disclosures of all of these co-pending applications are incorporated herein by cross-reference.
10/727,181 10/727,162 10/727,163 10/727,245 PEA05US
10/727,233 10/727,280 10/727,157 10/727,178 10/72,210 PEA 11 1US 10/727,238 10/727,251 10/727,159 10/727,180 PEA16US PEA17US PEA18US 10/727,164 10/727,161 10/727,198 10/727,158 10/754,536 10/754,938 10/727,227 10/727,160 09/575,108 10/727,162 09/575,110 09/607,985 6,398,332 6,394,573 6,622,923 10/173,739 10/189,459 10/713,083 10/713,091 ZG 164US 10/713,077 10/713,081 10/713,080 10/667,342 10/664,941 10/664,939 10/664,938 10/665,069 09/112,763 09/112,762 09/112,737 09/112,761 09/113,223 09/505,951 09/505,147 09/505.952 09/517,539 09/517,384 09/516,869 09/517,608 09/517,380 09/516,874 09/517,541 10/636,263 10/636,283 ZE028US ZE029US
ZE030US 10/407,212 10/407,207 10/683,064 10/683,041 Some applications have been listed by their docket numbers, these will be replaced when application numbers are known.
BACKGROUND
When a printhead module is being mounted to a carrier, there is the possibility that the position of the printhead will be rotationally erroneous. Such errors arise due to the tolerances in the assembly process, for example.
In cases where the printhead module is short, and particularly where it is the only module in the printhead, minor rotational errors may be acceptable. However, in the case of relatively long printheads, the amount of error introduced to dot positions due to the erroneous rotational position of the printhead module relative to the carrier may reach noticeable, and therefore unacceptable (or at least undesirable) levels.
The problem is exacerbated when multiple printhead modules are laid end to end to form a printhead, such as a pagewidth printhead, due to the fact that some forms of rotational error will cause discontinuities between rows of dots printed by adjacent modules. In general, these discontinuities are more visible and objectionable than mere consistent skew across a single printhead module.
It would be useful to provide a method and apparatus for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a first aspect the present invention provides a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally, step (c) includes altering a timing of a fire signal to at least one of the nozzles on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to effect the at least partial compensation.
Optionally, the nozzles are disposed in a plurality of rows, and step (c) includes reallocating at least one of the ink dots from at least one original print line to at least one alternate print line, thereby to effect the at least partial compensation.
Optionally, step (c) further includes the step of altering a timing of fire signals to at least one of the nozzles on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to effect the at least partial compensation.
Optionally, the altered fire signals are supplied to both reallocated ink dots and non-reallocated ink dots.
Optionally, the correction factor is stored in a memory associated with the printhead. Optionally, the memory is mounted with the printhead, the printhead being mounted on the print engine.
Optionally, the rotational displacement is roll.
Optionally, the rotational displacement is yaw.
Optionally, the printhead module being one of a plurality of printhead modules mounted on a carrier to form a pri nthead and the error in ink dot placement being an error relative to ink dots output by one or more of the other printhead modules Optionally, the printer is a pagewidth printer.
The present invention relates to a method of compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead or printhead module.
The invention has primarily been developed for use in a pagewidth inkjet printer comprising a printer controller and a printhead having one or more printhead modules, and will be described with reference to this example.
However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to any particular type of printing technology, and is not limited to use in, for example, pagewidth and inkjet printing.
CROSS-REFERENCES
Various methods, systems and apparatus relating to the present invention are disclosed in the following co-pending applications filed by the applicant or assignee of the present invention. The disclosures of all of these co-pending applications are incorporated herein by cross-reference.
10/727,181 10/727,162 10/727,163 10/727,245 PEA05US
10/727,233 10/727,280 10/727,157 10/727,178 10/72,210 PEA 11 1US 10/727,238 10/727,251 10/727,159 10/727,180 PEA16US PEA17US PEA18US 10/727,164 10/727,161 10/727,198 10/727,158 10/754,536 10/754,938 10/727,227 10/727,160 09/575,108 10/727,162 09/575,110 09/607,985 6,398,332 6,394,573 6,622,923 10/173,739 10/189,459 10/713,083 10/713,091 ZG 164US 10/713,077 10/713,081 10/713,080 10/667,342 10/664,941 10/664,939 10/664,938 10/665,069 09/112,763 09/112,762 09/112,737 09/112,761 09/113,223 09/505,951 09/505,147 09/505.952 09/517,539 09/517,384 09/516,869 09/517,608 09/517,380 09/516,874 09/517,541 10/636,263 10/636,283 ZE028US ZE029US
ZE030US 10/407,212 10/407,207 10/683,064 10/683,041 Some applications have been listed by their docket numbers, these will be replaced when application numbers are known.
BACKGROUND
When a printhead module is being mounted to a carrier, there is the possibility that the position of the printhead will be rotationally erroneous. Such errors arise due to the tolerances in the assembly process, for example.
In cases where the printhead module is short, and particularly where it is the only module in the printhead, minor rotational errors may be acceptable. However, in the case of relatively long printheads, the amount of error introduced to dot positions due to the erroneous rotational position of the printhead module relative to the carrier may reach noticeable, and therefore unacceptable (or at least undesirable) levels.
The problem is exacerbated when multiple printhead modules are laid end to end to form a printhead, such as a pagewidth printhead, due to the fact that some forms of rotational error will cause discontinuities between rows of dots printed by adjacent modules. In general, these discontinuities are more visible and objectionable than mere consistent skew across a single printhead module.
It would be useful to provide a method and apparatus for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a first aspect the present invention provides a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally, step (c) includes altering a timing of a fire signal to at least one of the nozzles on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to effect the at least partial compensation.
Optionally, the nozzles are disposed in a plurality of rows, and step (c) includes reallocating at least one of the ink dots from at least one original print line to at least one alternate print line, thereby to effect the at least partial compensation.
Optionally, step (c) further includes the step of altering a timing of fire signals to at least one of the nozzles on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to effect the at least partial compensation.
Optionally, the altered fire signals are supplied to both reallocated ink dots and non-reallocated ink dots.
Optionally, the correction factor is stored in a memory associated with the printhead. Optionally, the memory is mounted with the printhead, the printhead being mounted on the print engine.
Optionally, the rotational displacement is roll.
Optionally, the rotational displacement is yaw.
Optionally, the printhead module being one of a plurality of printhead modules mounted on a carrier to form a pri nthead and the error in ink dot placement being an error relative to ink dots output by one or more of the other printhead modules Optionally, the printer is a pagewidth printer.
Optionally, the printer is a pagewidth printer.
Optionally, the present invention provides a printer controller programmed and configured to implement the method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally, the method including expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method including expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method including manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally, the present invention provides a printer controller programmed and configured to implement the method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally, the method including expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method including expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method including manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, 5 wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of ajoin region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, 5 wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of ajoin region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead, wherein each of the serial outputs is configured to supply dot data for at least two channels of the at least one printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position xl, wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
5 Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of 10 printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally, the met hod being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position xl, wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
5 Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of 10 printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally, the met hod being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a second aspect the present invention provides a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the nozzle at each given position within the set is fired simultaneously with the nozzles in the other sets at respective corresponding positions.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the method including sequentially repeating the for each of the rows of nozzles.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a second aspect the present invention provides a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the nozzle at each given position within the set is fired simultaneously with the nozzles in the other sets at respective corresponding positions.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the method including sequentially repeating the for each of the rows of nozzles.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are adjacent each other.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position 1 in each set, or following the nozzle at position n.
Optionally the method includes the step of providing the fire sequence to the printhead module from a printer controller, the fire signals being based on the fire sequence.
Optionally the fire sequence is loaded into a shift register in the printhead module.
Optionally the method at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the method includes expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) unti l all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position 1 in each set, or following the nozzle at position n.
Optionally the method includes the step of providing the fire sequence to the printhead module from a printer controller, the fire signals being based on the fire sequence.
Optionally the fire sequence is loaded into a shift register in the printhead module.
Optionally the method at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the method includes expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) unti l all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the method includes manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one pr nthead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each 5 subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
10 dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead, wherein each of the serial outputs is configured to supply dot data for at least two channels of the at least one printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink WO 200_5/120835 PCT/AU2004/000706 in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, the method including firing each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the method includes a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the method including causing firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a third aspect the present invention provides a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel 5 ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of, (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set 10 have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the method including sequentially repeating steps (a) to (d) for each of the rows of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one pr nthead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each 5 subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
10 dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead, wherein each of the serial outputs is configured to supply dot data for at least two channels of the at least one printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink WO 200_5/120835 PCT/AU2004/000706 in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, the method including firing each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the method includes a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the method including causing firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a third aspect the present invention provides a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel 5 ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of, (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set 10 have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the method including sequentially repeating steps (a) to (d) for each of the rows of nozzles.
15 Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are adjacent each other.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position I in each set, or following the nozzle at position is.
In a second aspect the present invention provides a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of is adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position xis at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the nozzle at each given position within the set is fired simultaneously with the nozzles in the other sets at respective corresponding positions.
Optionally, the method at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally, the method including expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method including manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, 5 the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a 10 printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from 15 the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows 20 comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead, wherein each of the serial outputs is configured to supply dot data for at least two channels of the at least one printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position it, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ...
, nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event it is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, the method including firing each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, the method including firing each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the method including a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the method including causing firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a fourth aspect the present invention provides method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
In a second aspect the present invention provides a method of manufacturing a plurality of pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the steps of.
manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules in accordance with claim 1; and assembling pairs of at least some of the printhead modules to form pagewidth printheads, wherein each of the printhead modules in each pagewidth printhead is shorter than the pagewidth.
Optionally the printhead modules of at least one of the pagewidth printheads are of relatively different lengths.
Optionally the printhead modules of at least one of the pagewidth printheads are of the same length.
Optionally the printhead modules of at least one of the pagewidth printheads are of relatively different lengths, and the printhead modules of at least another of the pagewidth printheads are of the same length.
Optionally at least some of the printhead modules are larger than a reticle step used in laying out those printhcad modules.
Optionally the method includes the step of laying out a plurality of left-handed and right-handed printhead modules.
Optionally the method includes the step of laying out a plurality of different lengths of left-handed and right-handed printhead modules.
Optionally, the method at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally, the method including expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises 5 a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
10 Optionally, the method including expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
15 (c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
20 at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
25 a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire, groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead, wherein each of the serial outputs is configured to supply dot data for at least two channels of the at least one printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle 10 position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally 1, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in 15 each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event is is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
20 Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of 25 printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being 30 grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a fifth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, there is a one to one correspondence between the nozzles and elements of the two shift registers.
Optionally, each of the shift registers supplies dot data to about half of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one pair of rows of the nozzles, the rows in each pair being offset with respect to each other by half the intra-row nozzle spacing.
Optionally, each of the at least two shift registers supplies dot data to at least some of the nozzles in at least one pair of rows.
Optionally the present invention provides a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module having been manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and 5 supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least 10 one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows 15 of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each 20 subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
25 dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that (a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optional a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a sixth aspect the present invention provides printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input 5 of the printhead.
Optionally the printer including at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
10 Optionally the printer configured such that the first and second printer controllers sequentially provide the dot data to the common input.
Optionally the printer further including a second printhead module, the printer being configured such that: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the 15 second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality 20 of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a print engine comprising:
25 a carrier;
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input 30 of the printhead.
Optionally the printer including at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally the printer configured such that the first and second printer controllers alternately provide the dot data to the common input.
Optionally the printer further including a second printhead module, the printer being configured such that: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least first and second rows of print nozzles for expelling ink;
and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to the printhead to supply data for the first and second rows of nozzles, respectively.
Optionally the printer including at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-I), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer including a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the fast printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the rust printer controller.
Optionally the printer including at least one printhead module, configured for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer including a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for sending to a printhead:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
5 Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and 10 a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of 15 printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape.in plan.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, 20 each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and 25 (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent 30 nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event is is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event is is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a seventh aspect the present invention provides a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to a printhead module of arbitrary length.
Optionally the first and second printhead modules are equal in length.
Optionally the first and second printhead modules are unequal in length.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a print engine comprising:
a carrier;
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being mounted parallel to each other end to end on the carrier on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers mounted on the carrier and being configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the print engine includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to a printhead module of arbitrary 5 length.
Optionally the first and second printhead modules are equal in length.
Optionally the first and second printhead modules are unequal in length.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire. signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer includes a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer comprises:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer comprises:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer comprises:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer comprises at least one printhead module, configured for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer comprises a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a fast threshold.
Optionally the printer controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for sending to a printhead:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
5 Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the 10 channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied'from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In an eighth aspect the present invention provides a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot data by the printer controllers.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a print engine comprising:
a carrier;
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being mounted parallel to each other end to end on the carrier on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers mounted on the carrier and being configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein:
the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the print engine includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer includes a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer includes:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer includes:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer includes:
5 a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead 10 module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer includes at least one printhead module, configured for at least partially compensating for 15 errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at 20 least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer includes a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a 25 temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a 30 printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for sending to a printhead:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the pnnthead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising a plurality 5 of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
10 In a ninth aspect the present invention provides a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to 15 output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
20 Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot data by the printer controllers.
25 Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
30 In a further aspect the present invention provides a print engine comprising:
a carrier;
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being mounted parallel to each other end to end on the carrier on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the print engine includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence; [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of.
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into.
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
5 (b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-I), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a tenth aspect the present invention provides printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally, the nozzles are disposed in a plurality of rows, and the printer controller is configured to reallocate at least one of the ink dots from at least one original print line to at least one alternate print line, thereby to effect the at least partial compensation.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to retrieve the correction factor from a memory associated with the printhead.
Optionally, the memory is mounted with the printhead, the printhead being mounted on the print engine.
Optionally, the rotational displacement is roll.
Optionally, the rotational displacement is yaw.
Optionally, the printhead module being one of a plurality of printhead modules mounted on a carrier to form a printhead and the error in ink dot placement being an error relative to ink dots output by one or more of the other printhead modules Optionally, the printhead module is part of a printhead comprising a plurality of the modules, the printer controller being configured to determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to a plurality of the printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of one or more of the correction factors, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement of the plurality of the printheads.
Optionally, the correction factor is at least partially based on a thickness of media being printed on.
Optionally the printer controller configured to at least improve first order continuity between ink dots printed by adjacent printhead modules.
Optionally a print engine including the print controller according and a plurality of the printhead modules that define a printhead, the print engine being configured to compensate for the rotational displacement of at least one of the printhead modules.
Optionally the print engine further including a memory for storing the correction factor in a form accessible to the printer controller.
Optionally the print engine is configured to alter a timing of fire signals supplied to at least one of the nozzles on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to further effect the at least partial compensation.
Optionally the print engine is configured to supply the altered fire signals are to both reallocated ink dots and non-reallocated ink dots.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optional a printer including a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead 5 module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at 10 least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer further including a pagewidth printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules.
15 Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
20 (b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
25 Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position xis at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first p inthead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller, and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulates the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
5 Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the 10 channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In an eleventh aspect the present invention provides printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to modify the operation of the nozzles at or adjacent the at least one thermal sensor, such that operation of nozzles not at or adjacent the at least one thermal sensor is not modified.
Optionally each thermal sensor is associated with a predetermined group of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in the predetermined group for which the temperature has risen above the first threshold.
Optionally each thermal sensor is associated with a single nozzle.
Optionally the modification includes the printer controller preventing operation of the nozzle.
Optionally the modification includes the printer controller preventing operation of the nozzle for a predetermined period.
Optionally the modification includes the printer controller preventing operation of the nozzle until the temperature drops below a second threshold.
Optionally the second threshold is lower than the first threshold.
Optionally the second threshold is the same as the first threshold.
Optionally the temperature is not determined explicitly by the at least one thermal sensor or the module.
Optionally each of the nozzles including a thermal ink ejection mechanism.
Optionally the thermal sensor comprises at least part of one of the thermal inkjet mechanisms.
Optionally the thermal sensor comprises a heating element.
Optionally the thermal sensor determines the temperature by determining a resistance of the heating element.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to:
receive thermal information from the at least one thermal sensor, determine the modification based on the thermal information; and send control information back to the printhead module, the control information being indicative of the modification to make to the operation of the one or more nozzles.
Optionally a print engine including a printer controller configured to:
receive thermal information from the at least one thermal sensor, determine the modification based on the thermal information; and send control information back to the printhead module, the control information being indicative of the modification to make to the operation of the one or more nozzles; and a printhead module, wherein the printhead module further includes a plurality of data latches, the data latches being configured to provide dot data to respective ones of the nozzles, at least some of the data latches being configured to receive thermal signals from respective ones of the thermal sensors during an acquisition period.
Optionally the data latches are configured to form a shift register, the shift register being configured to:
shift the print data in during a print load phase;
sample the signals from the thermal sensors during a temperature load phase;
and shift the thermal signals out to the printer controller during an output phase.
Optionally the output phase coincides with a subsequent print load phase.
Optionally the print engine further includes logic circuitry configured to perform a bitwise operation on: each thermal signal as it is clocked out of the shift register; and each piece of dot data to be clocked into the shift register, such that when a thermal signal is indicative of a thermal problem with a nozzle, the logic circuitry prevents loading of data that would cause firing of that nozzle.
Optionally the logic circuitry includes an AND circuit that receives as inputs the dot data and the thermal signal corresponding to the nozzle for which the dot data is intended, an output of the AND circuit being in communication with an input of the shift register.
Optionally each thermal sensor is associated with a pair of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: (nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
5 (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the. printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at 5 least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion 10 including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, 15 the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows 20 configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller further includes a logic circuit accepting as inputs a masking signal and the thermal signal corresponding to the nozzle for which the dot data is intended, the logic circuit outputting the thermal signal to the input of the AND circuit in reliance on a value of the masking signal.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for at least one nozzle position, including the nozzle for which the current dot data is intended.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for a plurality of nozzle positions corresponding to a region of the printhead associated the nozzle for which the current dot data is intended.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for all of the nozzle positions of the printhead.
In a twelfth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the one or more control signals include a fire control sequence indicative of a first fire group to be fired.
Optionally, the printhead being configured to shift the fire control sequence through a shift register to cause subsequent firing of the second and any other fire groups, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide the fire control sequence during an initiation phase of the printhead, such that the fire control sequence does not need to be repeatedly provided by the printer controller while printing is taking place.
Optionally, the printhead being configured to shift the fire control sequence through a shift register to cause subsequent firing of the second and any other fire groups, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide the fire control sequence periodically during printing.
Optionally the printhead being configured to provide the fire control sequence on a per row or per print-line basis.
Optionally the printhead being configured to provide a fire enable signal in addition to the one or more fire control signals, such that the combination of the fire enable and fire control signals cause selected ones of the nozzles to fire in the predetermined sequence and in accordance with a predetermined timing.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a print engine including a printhead and a printer controller, the printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the one or more control signals include a fire control sequence indicative of a first fire group to be fired.
Optionally the printhead being configured to shift the fire control sequence through a shift register to cause subsequent firing of the second and any other fire groups, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide the fire control sequence during an initiation phase of the printhead, such that the fire control sequence does not need to be repeatedly provided by the printer controller while printing is taking place.
Optionally, the printhead being configured to shift the fire control sequence through a shift register to cause subsequent firing of the second and any other fire groups, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide the fire control sequence periodically during printing.
Optionally the print engine being configured to provide the fire control sequence on a per row or per print line basis.
Optionally the print engine being configured to provide a fire enable signal in addition to the one or more fire control signals, such that the combination of the fire enable and fire control signals cause selected ones of the nozzles to fire in the predetermined sequence and in accordance with a predetermined timing.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of.
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n- 1), ... , nozzle position xj, wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a fast and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle positionx is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printer controller being configured to control the at least one printhead module to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally the printer controller configurable to control the printhead module such that the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printer controller configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printer controller configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a thirteenth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the communication output is configured to output the dot data and control data serially.
Optionally the printer controller further includes a plurality of the communication outputs.
Optionally the printer controller further includes a plurality of the communication outputs.
Optionally a print engine comprising a print controller and a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead modules being disposed end to end for printing a width exceeding that of any of the individual printhead modules, the communications input of each of the printhead modules being connected to a common dot data and control data bus, the common dot data and control data bus being in functional communication with the communication output.
Optionally each module is configured to respond to dot data and control data on the bus only when it is intended for that module.
Optionally a printer incorporating a print engine comprising a print controller and a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead modules being disposed end to end for printing a width exceeding that of any of the individual printhead modules, the communications input of each of the printhead modules being connected to a common dot data and control data bus, the common dot data and control data bus being in functional communication with the communication output.
Optionally a printer incorporating a print controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead modules together form a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer further including a pagewidth printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position xis at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of.
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n- 1), ...
, nozzle position x), wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and.then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to-the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller provides data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a fourteenth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed, the printer controller being configured to control order and timing of the data supplied to the printhead such that the dropped row is compensated for during printing by the printhead module.
Optionally the displaced row portion is disposed adjacent one end of the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, wherein each of at least a plurality of the rows includes one of the displaced row portions.
Optionally the displaced row portions of at least some of the rows are different in length than the displaced row portions of at least some of the other rows.
Optionally each of the rows has a displaced row portion, and the sizes of the respective displaced row portions increase from row to row in the direction normal to that of the pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies the data to a printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules, wherein the displaced row portion of at least one of the printhead modules is disposed adjacent another of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printhead modules are the same shape and configuration as each other, and are arranged end to end across the intended print width.
Optionally, the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally, the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller, and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a fast threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it In a fifteenth aspect the present invention provides printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the first number is n.
Optionally the first number is less than n.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable into at least one other mode, in which the at least one printhead module is configured to receive print data for a third number of print channels other than the first and second numbers, the printer controller being selectively configurable to supply the print data for the third number of print channels.
Optionally n is 4 and the second number is less than 4.
Optionally n is 5 and the second number is less than 5.
Optionally n is 6 and the second number is less than 6.
Optionally the second number is 3, 4 or S.
Optionally the print engine includes the print controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes;
and the at least one printhead module.
Optionally the mode is selected based on the contents of a memory associated with the at least one printhead module.
Optionally the memory is a register.
Optionally the register is on an integrated circuit forming part of the print engine.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer includes a print engine including the print controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes;
and the at least one printhead module.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes; and including a pagewidth printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired, and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally a printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fined before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controllers supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the fast and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a fast mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a sixteenth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead comprises a plurality of at least one of the types of module.
Optionally the printhead comprises a plurality of each of at least two of the types of module.
Optionally the printhead comprises two types of the module.
Optionally the two types of module alternate across a print width of the printhead.
Optionally, each of the modules including at least one row of print nozzles, wherein each of the at least one row of print nozzles includes at least a portion that extends at an acute angle to an intended relative direction of movement between the printhead and print media.
Optionally the different types of modules are configured, and arranged relative to each other, such that there is substantially no growth in offset of each of the at least one row of print nozzles in a direction across an intended print width of the printhead.
Optionally each of the printhead modules is a monolithic integrated circuit.
Optionally, each of the modules including at least one row of print nozzles, wherein each of the at least one rows includes at least two sub-rows, each of the sub-rows being parallel to each other and displaced relative to each other in a direction of intended movement of print media relative to the printhead.
Optionally at least one row in each of the printhead modules prints an ink corresponding to at least one row on an adjacent printhead module, wherein the corresponding rows of at least two of the different printhead modules are offset from each other in a direction of intended movement of print media relative to the printhead, Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally, the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carver, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the fast and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a seventeenth aspect the present invention provides printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the printer controller being configured to control the printhead module such that steps (a) to (d) are repeated for each of the rows of nozzles.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are adjacent each other.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position 1 in each set, or following the nozzle at position n.
Optionally the printhead module is one of a plurality of printhead modules that form a pagewidth printhead, the printer controller being configure to supply the control signals to at least a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position xJ, wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the,print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, the printer controller being configured to cause firing of each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printer controller includes a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printer controller being configured to control the at least one printhead module to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to control the printhead such that the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printer controller is configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printer controller is configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In an eighteenth aspect the present invention provides printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to cause the nozzle at each given position within the set to be fired simultaneously with the nozzles in the other sets at respective corresponding positions.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the printer controller being configured to control the printhead module such that the steps are repeated for each of the rows of nozzles.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are adjacent each other.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position 1 in each set, or following the nozzle at position n.
Optionally the printhead module is one of a plurality of printhead modules that form a pagewidth printhead, the printer controller being configure to supply the control signals to at least a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the rust printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into-a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1J, ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event it is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, the printer controller being configured to cause firing of each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printer controller includes a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printer controller being configured to control the at least one printhead module to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to control the printhead such that the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printer controller is configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printer controller is configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a nineteenth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally print engine comprising a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module. comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing; and a printhead module, wherein the printhead module is controllable such that either of the nozzles in each aligned pair of nozzles in the first and second rows can be selected to output ink for a selected dot to be printed on the print media.
Optionally in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, the corresponding nozzle in the second row is selected to output ink for a dot for which the faulty nozzle would otherwise have output ink.
Optionally the print engine includes a plurality of sets of the first and second rows.
Optionally each of the sets of the first and second rows is configured to print in a single color or ink type.
Optionally the first and second rows in at least one of the sets are separated by one or more rows from the other set or sets.
Optionally each of the rows includes an odd sub-row and an even sub-row, the odd and even sub-rows being offset with respect to each other in a direction of intended print media travel relative to the printhead.
Optionally the odd and even sub-rows are transversely offset relative to each other.
Optionally the print engine is configured such that the first and second rows are fired alternately.
Optionally the print engine comprises a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally a printer including a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally a printer including a print engine comprising a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing; and a printhead module, wherein the printhead module is controllable such that either of the nozzles in each aligned pair of nozzles in the first and second rows can be selected to output ink for a selected dot to be printed on the print media.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twentieth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally a print engine comprising a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it; and the at least one printhead module, wherein each nozzle in the first row is paired with a nozzle in the second row, such that each pair of nozzles is aligned in an intended direction of print media travel relative to the printhead module.
Optionally the print engine includes a plurality of sets of the first and second rows.
Optionally each of the sets of the first and second rows is configured to print in a single color or ink type.
Optionally each of the rows includes an odd and an even sub-row, the odd and even sub-rows being offset with respect to each other in a direction of print media travel relative to the printhead in use.
Optionally the odd and even sub-rows are transversely offset with respect to each other.
Optionally a printer including at least one printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally a printer includes at least one print engine comprising a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it; and the at least one printhead module, wherein each nozzle in the first row is paired with a nozzle in the second row, such that each pair of nozzles is aligned in an intended direction of print media travel relative to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
.10 Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a,pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty first aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead, wherein each of the serial outputs is configured to supply dot data for at least two channels of the at least one printhead.
Optionally the at least two channels include at least two color channels.
Optionally the at least two channels include at least one fixative channel.
Optionally the at least two channels include at least one infrared ink channel.
Optionally the first data includes one or more instructions associated with production of the dot data from the first data, the print controller including processing means for producing the dot data from the first data on the basis of the one or more instructions.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least. two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-I), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fine the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty second aspect the present invention provides a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally there is a one to one correspondence between the nozzles and respective elements of the first and second shift registers.
Optionally each of the shift registers supplies dot data to about half of the nozzles in a row.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one pair of rows of the nozzles, the rows in each pair being offset in a direction parallel to the rows by half the intra-row nozzle spacing.
Optionally each of the at least two shift registers supplies dot data to at least some of the nozzles in at least the pair of rows.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows configured to print using at least two ink channels, the nozzles for each of the ink channels being fed the dot data from at least one pair of first and second registers.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink, and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that (a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhcad module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the fast data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhcad.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhcad modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x), wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty third aspect the present invention provides a printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the first number is n.
Optionally the first number is less than n.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable into at least one other mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a number of print channels other than the first and second numbers.
Optionally n is 4 and the second number is less than 4.
Optionally n is 5 and the second number is less than 5.
Optionally n is 6 and the second number is less than 6.
Optionally the second number is 3, 4 or 5.
Optionally the selected mode is selected based on the contents of a memory associated with the printhead.
Optionally the memory is a register.
Optionally the register is on an integrated circuit, and wherein the integrated circuit and the printhead are mounted to a print engine.
Optionally printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the fast printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller, and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a fast and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty fourth aspect the present invention provides a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead comprising a plurality of at least one of the types of module.
Optionally the printhead comprising a plurality of each of at least two of the types of module.
Optionally the printhead comprising two types of the module.
Optionally the two types of module alternate across a print width of the printhead.
Optionally each of the modules including at least one row of print nozzles, wherein each of the at least one row of print nozzles includes at least a portion that extends at an acute angle to an intended relative direction of movement between the printhead and print media.
Optionally the different types of modules are configured, and arranged relative to each other, such that there is substantially no growth in offset of each of the at least one row of print nozzles in a direction across an intended print width of the printhead.
Optionally each of the printhead modules is a monolithic integrated circuit.
Optionally each of the modules including at least one row of print nozzles, wherein each of the at least one rows includes at least two sub-rows, each of the sub-rows being parallel to each other and displaced relative to each other in a direction of intended movement of print media relative to the printhead.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a.join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller, and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead further including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: (nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), .,. , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position xis at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printhead further including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead further including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead receives dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printhead further including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printhead further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty fifth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the nozzle at each given position within the set is fired simultaneously with the nozzles in the other sets at respective corresponding positions.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the printhead module being configured to fire all the nozzles on each row prior to firing any nozzles from a subsequent row.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are adjacent each other.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position 1 in each set, or following the nozzle at position n.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller, and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a fast number of the channels; and .20 a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a.printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that (a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or.color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module further comprising a plurality of the rows, the printhead module being configured to fire each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configured to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a twenty sixth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the.
nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the printhead module being configured to fire all the nozzles on each row prior to firing any nozzles from a subsequent row.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are adjacent each other.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position I in each set, or following the nozzle at position n.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the fast row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired, and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module further comprising a plurality of the rows, the printhead module being configured to fire each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configured to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a twenty seventh aspect the present invention provides a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the communication input is configured to receive the dot data and control data serially.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of the communication inputs.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of the communication inputs.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data;
the printhead modules being disposed end to end for printing a width exceeding that of any of the individual printhead modules, the communications input of each of the printhead modules being connected to a common dot data and control data bus.
Optionally each module is configured to respond to dot data and control data on the bus only when it is intended for that module.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of.
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired, and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead_ Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead 'module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printbead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty eighth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the displaced row portion is disposed adjacent one end of the monolithic printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of the rows, wherein each of at least a plurality of the rows includes one of the displaced row portions.
Optionally the displaced row portions of at least some of the rows are different in length than the displaced row portions of at least some of the other rows.
Optionally each of the rows has a displaced row portion, and the sizes of the respective displaced row portions increase from row to row in the direction normal to that of the pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the dropped rows together comprise a generally trapezoidal shape, in plan.
Optionally the dropped rows together comprise a generally triangular shape, in plan.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, including at least one of the printhead modules including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, including at least one the printhead modules according to claim 2, wherein the displaced row portion of at least one of the printhead modules is disposed adjacent another of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printhead modules are the same shape and configuration as each other, and are arranged end to end across the intended print width.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of-(a) determining the rotational displacement;, (b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle -in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event ,n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting In dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position it, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty ninth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs extending generally transverse to a direction media is to be moved relative to the printhead.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are configured to print the same color ink as each other.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows share an ink supply.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset with respect to each other.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to fire the nozzles such that at least some ink dots from one row land on top of dots previously deposited by one or more of the other rows.
Optionally the printhead module is operable in at least two fire modes, wherein at least some of the at least two fire modes define relatively different numbers of nozzles in each of the fire groups.
Optionally at least some of the at least two fire groups define relatively different fire group sequences.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller, Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhcad module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that (a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles Is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type Is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module further comprises a plurality of the rows, the printhead module being configured to fire each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printhead module further includes a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configured to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a thirtieth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first row and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second row.
Optionally the printhead module is controllable such that either of the nozzles in each aligned pair of nozzles in the first and second rows can be selected to output ink for a selected dot to be printed on the print media.
Optionally in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, the corresponding nozzle in the second row is selected to output ink for a dot for which the faulty nozzle would otherwise have output ink.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of sets of the first and second rows.
Optionally each of the sets of the first and second rows is configured to print in a single color or ink type.
Optionally the first and second rows in at least one of the sets are separated by one or more rows from the other set or sets.
Optionally each of the rows includes an odd sub-row and an even sub-row, the odd and even sub-rows being offset with respect to each other in a direction of intended print media travel relative to the printhead.
Optionally the odd and even sub-rows are transversely offset relative to each other.
Optionally the printhead module is configured such that the first and second rows are fired alternately.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first row and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second row.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of.
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired, and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth piintheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:, a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x), wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
30' Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the fast pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a thirty first aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally there is a one to one correspondence between the nozzles and respective elements of the first and second shift registers.
Optionally each of the shift registers supplies dot data to about half of the nozzles in a row.
Optionally the printer controller includes at least one pair of rows of the nozzles, the rows in each pair being offset in a direction parallel to the rows by half the intra-row nozzle spacing.
Optionally each of the at least two shift registers supplies dot data to at least some of the nozzles in at least the pair of rows.
Optionally the printer includes a plurality of the rows configured to print using at least two ink channels, the nozzles for each of the ink channels being fed the dot data from at least one pair of first and second registers.
Optionally the printhead module forms part of a printhead.
Optionally the printhead includes a plurality of the printhead modules and the printer controller is configured to supply data to a plurality of the modules.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position is, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a thirty second aspect the present invention provides a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to modify the operation of the nozzles at or adjacent the at least one thermal sensor, such that operation of nozzles not at or adjacent the at least one thermal sensor is not modified.
Optionally each thermal sensor is associated with a predetermined group of the nozzles, the nozzles in the predetermined group being those for which the operation is modified.
Optionally each thermal sensor is associated with a single nozzle.
Optionally the modification includes preventing operation of the nozzle.
Optionally the modification includes preventing operation of the nozzle for a predetermined period.
Optionally the modification includes preventing operation of the nozzle until the temperature drops below a second threshold.
Optionally the second threshold is lower than the first threshold.
Optionally the second threshold is the same as the first threshold.
Optionally the temperature is not determined explicitly by the at least one thermal sensor or the module.
Optionally the printhead module is a thermal inkjet printhead module and each of the nozzles includes a thermal ink ejection mechanism.
Optionally the thermal sensor comprises at least part of one of the thermal inkjet mechanisms.
Optionally the thermal sensor comprises a heating element.
Optionally the thermal sensor determines the temperature by determining a resistance of the heating element.
Optionally printhead module according to claim 1, configured to:
output thermal information from the at least one thermal sensor to a controller; and receive control information back from the controller, the control information being indicative of the modification to make to the operation of the one or more nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of data latches, the data latches being configured to provide dot data to respective ones of the nozzles, at least some of the data latches being configured to receive thermal signals from respective ones of the thermal sensors during an acquisition period.
Optionally the data latches are configured to form a shift register, the shift register being configured to:
shift the print data in during a print load phase;
sample the signals from the thermal sensors during a temperature load phase;
and shift the thermal signals out during an output phase.
Optionally the output phase coincides with a subsequent print load phase.
Optionally the printhead module further including logic circuitry configured to perform a bitwise operation on:
each thermal signal as it is clocked out of the shift register; and each piece of dot data to be clocked into the shift register, such that when a thermal signal is indicative of a thermal problem with a nozzle, the logic circuitry prevents loading of data that would cause firing of that nozzle.
Optionally the logic circuitry includes an AND circuit that receives as inputs the dot data and the thermal signal corresponding to the nozzle for which the dot data is intended, an output of the AND circuit being in communication with an input of the shift register.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at Last first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that.
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module further including a logic circuit accepting as inputs a masking signal and the thermal signal corresponding to the nozzle for which the dot data is intended, the logic circuit outputting the thermal signal to the input of the AND circuit in reliance on a value of the masking signal.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for at least one nozzle position, including the nozzle for which the current dot data is intended.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for a plurality of nozzle positions corresponding to a region of the printhead associated the nozzle for which the current dot data is intended.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for all of the nozzle positions of the printhead.
In a thirty third aspect the present invention provides a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally each nozzle in the first row is paired with a nozzle in the second row, such that each pair of nozzles is aligned in an intended direction of print media travel relative to the printhead module.
Optionally each printhead module further including a plurality of sets of the first and second rows.
Optionally each of the sets of the first and second rows is configured to print in a single color or ink type.
Optionally each of the rows includes an odd and an even sub-row, the odd and even sub-rows being offset with respect to each other in a direction of print media travel relative to the printhead in use.
Optionally the odd and even sub-rows are transversely offset with respect to each other.
Optionally printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules wherein each nozzle in the first row is paired with a nozzle in the second row, such that each pair of nozzles is aligned in an intended direction of print media travel relative to the printhead module.
Optionally printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules each of the sets of the first and second rows is configured to print in a single color or ink type.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to afire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-I), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles Is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position i, nozzle position it, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-I), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of it adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event it is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a thirty fourth aspect the present invention provides a first entity configured to authenticate a digital signature supplied by a second entity, wherein one of the entities includes a base key and the other of the entities includes a variant key and a bit-pattern, the variant key being based on the result of applying a one way function to the base key and the bit-pattern, the digital signature having been generated by the second entity using its key to digitally signing at least part of data to be authenticated, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the digital signature from the second entity;
(b) receive the data; and (c) authenticate the digital signature based on the received data and the first entity's key.
Optionally the first entity includes the base key, the first entity being configured to receive, from the second entity, the bit-pattern, wherein (c) includes:
generating the variant key from the bit-pattern and the base key; and authenticating the digital signature using the generated variant key.
Optionally, the first entity storing information, wherein the data is indicative of a request to be performed on the information.
Optionally the information is a value.
Optionally the data is indicative of a read instruction.
Optionally the data is indicate of a write instruction, the data being indicative of new information to be written.
Optionally the data is indicative of a function to be applied to the information.
Optionally the function is a decrement or increment function.
Optionally the data is indicative of a value stored in the second entity.
Optionally the first entity being configured to send a request to the second entity, the data being returned in response to the request.
Optionally the data is indicative of a value stored in the second entity.
Optionally the first entity being configured to digitally sign at least some of the request with the base key.
Optionally the first entity has the base key.
Optionally the first entity storing information, wherein the data is indicative of a request to be performed on the information.
Optionally the information is a value.
Optionally the data is indicative of a read instruction.
Optionally the data is indicate of a write instruction, the data being indicative of new information to be written.
Optionally the data is indicative of a function to be applied to the information.
Optionally the function is a decrement or increment function.
Optionally the data is indicative of a value stored in the second entity.
Optionally the first entity being configured to send a read request to the second entity, the data being returned in response to the request.
Optionally the data is indicative of a value stored in the second entity.
Optionally the first entity being configured to digitally sign at least some of the request with the base key.
Optionally there is provided a first entity, including:
a first bit-pattern a non-volatile memory storing resource data, a first base key for use with at least a first variant key;
a second variant key for use with a second base key, the second variant key being the result of a one way function applied to: the second base key; and the first bit-pattern or a modified bit-pattern based on the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for use in a method of enabling or disabling a verification process of a first entity in response to a predetermined event, the first entity having at least one associated bit-pattern and at least one variant key, each of the variant keys having been generated by applying a one way function to: a base key; and one or more of the at least one bit-patterns, respectively; or one or more alternative bit patterns, each of the alternative bit-patterns being based on one or the at least one bit-patterns, the method including the method including:
(a) determining that the predetermined event has happened; and (b) enabling or disabling at least one of the first variant keys in response the predetermined event.
Optionally there is provided a first entity for use in a system for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity, the system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key configured to be transported from the second entity to the first entity using the transport keys, the authentication key being usable to enable the authenticated communication by the first entity.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for use in a method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for use in a method of storing a bit-pattern in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing the bit-pattern at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory locations are different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for use in a method of storing at least one functionally identical code segment in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing a first of the at least one code segments in the memory at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory location is different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for implementing a method for providing a sequence of nonces (R0, RI, R2, ...) commencing with a current seed of a sequence of seeds (xl, x2, x3,...), the method comprising:
(a) applying a one-way function to the current seed, thereby to generate a current nonce; (b) outputting the current nonce;
(c) using the current seed to generate a next seed in a sequence of seeds, the seed so generated becoming the current seed; and (c) repeating steps (a) to (c) as required to generate further nonces in the sequence of nonces.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for implementing a method of storing multiple first bit-patterns in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising, for each of the first bit-patterns to be stored:
(a) applying a one way function to a third bit-pattern based on a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third bit-patterns used for the respective first bit-patterns are relatively unique compared to each other.
In a thirty fifth aspect the present invention provides a first entity including:
a first bit-pattern a non-volatile memory storing resource data, a first base key for use with at least a first variant key;
a second variant key for use with a second base key, the second variant key being the result of a one way function applied to: the second base key; and the first bit-pattern or a modified bit-pattern based on the first bit-pattern.
Optionally the first variant key is stored in a second entity.
Optionally the second base key is stored in a third entity.
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of a plurality of second entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the second entities having an associated bit-pattern and one of the first variant keys, the first variant key in each of second entities being based on the result of applying a one way function to the first base key and the associated bit pattern of that second entity, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from one of the second entities;
(b) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(c) use the first base key to digitally sign at least part of the response, thereby to generate a digital signature;
and (d) send the response and the digital signature to the second entity from which the request was received, such that the second entity can verify the at least part of the response using its variant key.
Optionally the first entity is configured to, prior to (b), receive the associated bit-pattern from the second entity that makes the request in (a), wherein (c) includes: -(i) using the first base key and the associated bit-pattern received from the second entity to generate the first variant key of the second entity making the request in (a); and (ii) using the first variant key generated in (i) to perform the signing of at least part of the response the response.
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(e) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(f) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(g) use the second variant key to digitally sign at least part of the response, thereby to generate a digital signature; and (h) send the response and the digital signature to the third entity from which the request was received, such that the third entity can verify the at least part of the response using its base key.
Optionally the first entity is configured to send the first bit-pattern to the third entity that makes the request in (e), such that the third entity can:
(i) use the second base key and the bit-pattern received from the first entity to generate the second variant key; and (ii) use the second variant key generated in (i) to perform the verification.
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(b) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(c) use the first variant key to digitally sign at least part of at least the response, thereby to generate a digital signature; and (d) send the response and the digital signature to the third entity from which the request was received, such that the third entity can verify at least part of the response using its base key.
Optionally the first entity is configured to send the first bit-pattern the third entity that makes the request in (a), such that the third entity can:
(i) use the second base key and the bit-pattern received from the first entity to generate the second variant key; and (ii) use the second variant key generated in (i) to perform the verification.
Optionally the second and third entities have different permissions in relation to the operations they can perform on the resource data, the permissions being defined based which of the first and second base key and variant key combinations is used for the verification.
Optionally the first base and variant key combination provides a higher permission to perform an operation on the resource data than the second base key and variant key combination.
Optionally the second and third entities have different permissions in relation to the operations they can perform on the resource data, the permissions being defined based which of the first and second base key and variant key combinations is used for the verification.
Optionally the first base and variant key combination provides a higher permission to perform an operation on the resource data than the second base key and variant key combination.
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of a plurality of second entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the second entities having an associated bit-pattern and one of the first variant keys, the first variant key in each of second entities being based on the result of applying a one way function to the first base key and the associated bit-pattern of that second entity, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from one of the second entities;
(b) receive the bit-pattern associated with the entity from which the request was received;
(c) receive a digital signature from the entity from which the request was received, the digital signature having been generated by digitally signing at least part of the request using the variant key;
(d) generate the variant key of the entity from which the request sent, by applying the one way function to the first base key and the received bit pattern; and (e) verify the request by digitally signing at least part of the request using the variant key generated in (d) and comparing the produced signature against the signature received in (d).
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(f) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(g) receive a digital signature from the third entity from which the request was received, the digital signature having been generated by the third entity signing at least part of the request using the second variant key;
(h) verify the at least part of the request by digitally signing at least part of the request using the second variant key and comparing the produced signature against the signature received in (g).
Optionally the first entity is configured to send the first bit-pattern to the third entity that makes the request in (f), such that the third entity can:
(i) use the second base key and the bit-pattern received from the first entity to generate the second variant key; and (ii) use the second variant key generated in (i) to digitally sign at least part of the request; and (iii) send the request for receipt by the first entity in (a).
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(f) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(g) receive a digital signature from the third entity from which the request was received, the digital signature having been generated by the third entity signing at least part of the request using the second variant key;
(h) verify the at least part of the request by digitally signing at least part of the request using the second variant key and comparing the produced signature against the signature received in (g).
Optionally the second and third entities have different permissions in relation to the operations they can perform on the resource data, the permissions being defined based which of the first and second base key and variant key combinations is used for the verification.
Optionally the first base and variant key combination provides a higher permission to perform an operation on the resource data than the second base key and variant key combination.
Optionally the resource data represents a physical property.
Optionally the physical property is a remaining amount of a physical resource.
Optionally the resource is a consumable resource.
Optionally the resource entity is physically attached to a reservoir or magazine that holds the consumable resource.
Optionally the resource is a fluid.
Optionally the fluid is ink.
Optionally the operation includes a read, in which the resource data is read by the entity making the request.
Optionally the operation includes write, in which the resource data is modified by the entity making the request.
Optionally the operation includes decrementing, in which the resource is decremented by the entity making the request.
Optionally the one way function is a hash function.
Optionally the one way function is SHA1.
Optionally a second entity configured for use with the first entity including:
a first bit-pattern a non-volatile memory storing resource data, a first base key for use with at least a first variant key;
a second variant key for use with a second base key, the second variant key being the result of a one way function applied to: the second base key; and the first bit-pattern or a modified bit-pattern based on the first bit-pattern.
Optionally a second entity configured for use with the first entity configured to receive a request from any of a plurality of second entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the second entities having an associated bit-pattern and one of the first variant keys, the first variant key in each of second entities being based on the result of applying a one way function to the first base key and the associated bit-pattern of that second entity, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from one of the second entities;
(b) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(c) use the first base key to digitally sign at least part of the response, thereby to generate a digital signature;
and (d) send the response and the digital signature to the second entity from which the request was received, such that the second entity can verify the at least part of the response using its variant key.
Optionally a second entity configured for use with the first entity configured to receive a request from any of a plurality of second entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the second entities having an associated bit-pattern and one of the first variant keys, the first variant key in each of second entities being based on the result of applying a one way function to the first base key and the associated bit-pattern of that second entity, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from one of the second entities;
(b) receive the bit-pattern associated with the entity from which the request was received;
(c) receive a digital signature from the entity from which the request was received, the digital signature having been generated by digitally signing at least part of the request using the variant key;
(d) generate the variant key of the entity from which the request sent, by applying the one way function to the first base key and the received bit pattern; and (e) verify the request by digitally signing at least part of the request using the variant key generated in (d) and comparing the produced signature against the signature received in (d).
Optionally a third entity configured for use with the first entity configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(e) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(f) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(g) use the second variant key to digitally sign at least part of the response, thereby to generate a digital signature; and (h) send the response and the digital signature to the third entity from which the request was received, such that the third entity can verify the at least part of the response using its base key.
Optionally a third entity configured for use with the first entity configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(b) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(c) use the first variant key to digitally sign at least part of at least the response, thereby to generate a digital signature; and (d) send the response and the digital signature to the third entity from which the request was received, such that the third entity can verify at least part of the response using its base key.
Optionally a third entity configured for use with the first entity configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(f) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(g) receive a digital signature from the third entity from which the request was received, the digital signature having been generated by the third entity signing at least part of the request using the second variant key;
(h) verify the at least part of the request by digitally signing at least part of the request using the second variant key and comparing the produced signature against the signature received in (g).
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to authenticate a digital signature supplied by a second entity, wherein one of the entities includes a base key and the other of the entities includes a variant key and a bit-pattern, the variant key being based on the result of applying a one way function to the base key and the bit-pattern, the digital signature having been generated by the second entity using its key to digitally signing at least part of data to be authenticated, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the digital signature from the second entity;
(b) receive the data; and (c) authenticate the digital signature based on the received data and the first entity's key.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method of enabling or disabling a verification process of a first entity in response to a predetermined event, the first entity having at least one associated bit-pattern and at least one variant key, each of the variant keys having been generated by applying a one way function to: a base key; and one or more of the at least one bit-patterns, respectively; or one or more alternative bit patterns, each of the alternative bit-patterns being based on one or the at least one bit-patterns, the method including the method including:
(a) determining that the predetermined event has happened; and (b) enabling or disabling at least one of the first variant keys in response the predetermined event.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for usein a system for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity, the system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key configured to be transported from the second entity to the first entity using the transport keys, the authentication key being usable to enable the authenticated communication by the first entity.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method of storing a bit-pattern in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing the bit-pattern at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory locations are different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method of storing at least one functionally identical code segment in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing a first of the at least one code segments in the memory at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory location is different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method for providing a sequence of nonces (R0, Rl, R2, ... ) commencing with a current seed of a sequence of seeds (x I, x2, x3,...), the method comprising:
(a) applying a one-way function to the current seed, thereby to generate a current nonce; (b) outputting the current nonce;
(c) using the current seed to generate a next seed in a sequence of seeds, the seed so generated becoming the current seed; and (c) repeating steps (a) to (c) as required to generate further nonces in the sequence of nonces.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method of storing multiple first bit-patterns in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising, for each of the first bit-patterns to be stored:
(a) applying a one way function to a third bit-pattern based on a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third bit-patterns used for the respective first bit-patterns are relatively unique compared to each other.
In a thirty sixth aspect the present invention provides a method of enabling or disabling a verification process of a first entity in response to a predetermined event, the first entity having at least one associated bit-pattern and at least one variant key, each of the variant keys having been generated by applying a one way function to: a base key; and one or more of the at least one bit-patterns, respectively; or one or more alternative bit patterns, each of the alternative bit-patterns being based on one or the at least one bit-patterns, the method including the method including:
(a) determining that the predetermined event has happened; and (b) enabling or disabling at least one of the first variant keys in response the predetermined event.
Optionally step (a) includes disabling at least one of the variant keys, such that the disabled at least one variant key can no longer be used to digitally sign information in that enti .
Optionally step (a) includes disabling at least one of the variant keys, such that the disabled at least one variant key can no longer be used to verify information signed by one or more respective base keys related to the disabled at least one variant key in that entity.
Optionally the step of disabling the at least one variant key includes modifying a status of a flag associated with that at least one variant key.
Optionally the step of disabling the at least one variant key includes deleting that at least one variant key.
Optionally the step of disabling the at least one variant key includes modifying that at least one variant key Optionally the event is a predetermined point in time being reached or passed.
Optionally the first entity includes a plurality of the variant keys, the plurality of variant keys being based on the result of a one way function applied to: a respective one of a corresponding plurality of base keys; and one of the at least one bit-patterns or one of the at least one alternative bit-patterns, the method including the steps of determining that a predetermined event related to one of the variant keys has happened; and enabling or disabling at least one of the plurality of variant keys with which the predetermined event is associated.
Optionally the plurality of base keys has a corresponding sequence of predetermined events associated with them, the method including the steps of:
(a) determining that one of the predetermined event has happened; and (b) enabling or disabling the variant key in the sequence corresponding to predetermined event that is determined to have happened.
Optionally the variant keys are disabled in the order of the sequence of predetermined events.
Optionally the sequence of events is chronological.
Optionally each of the events includes a time being reached.
Optionally the step of determining that one of the events has happened includes receiving a time from a trusted source.
Optionally the time is a date.
Optionally the date is determined with a resolution of a month.
Optionally the predetermined event includes detection of compromise of one or more of the keys, the method including disabling the one or more variant keys corresponding to the one or more keys that were compromised.
Optionally the predetermined event includes suspect compromise of one or more of the keys, the method including disabling the one or more variant keys corresponding to the one or more keys that were suspected of being compromised.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a method of manufacturing second entities for use in the verification process with the first entity of claim 1, each of the first entities including at least first and second variant key, the first variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to a first base key and a first bit-pattern, and the second variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to a second base key and a second bit-pattern, the method comprising the steps of:
manufacturing a plurality of second entities for use with the first entities, each of the second entities including at least the first base key; and upon the first variant key being disabled in response to one of the predetermined event, manufacturing a plurality of third entities for use with the first entities, each of the third entities including at least the second base key.
Optionally the first variant key is automatically disabled in response to a predetermined event.
Optionally the method further includes the step of causing the first variant key to be disabled.
Optionally the first variant key is disabled in response to a time being reached.
Optionally at least some of the first entities have one or more further variant keys, each of the respective further variant keys having been generated by applying a one way function to respective further base keys and bit-patterns, each of the variant keys being enabled or disabled in response to respective predetermined events, the method comprising the step of manufacturing a sequence of sets of second entities, each set of the second entities being manufactured such that the variant key corresponding to its base key is enabled for the verification process during the life of that set.
Optionally the predetermined events are selected such that the variant keys corresponding with the base keys of more than one of the sets are enabled at once.
Optionally there is provided a method using a first entity configured to authenticate a digital signature supplied by a second entity, wherein one of the entities includes a base key and the other of the entities includes a variant key and a bit-pattern, the variant key being based on the result of applying a one way function to the base key and the bit-pattern, the digital signature having been generated by the second entity using its key to digitally signing at least part of data to be authenticated, the first entity being configured to.
(a) receive the digital signature from the second entity;
(b) receive the data; and (c) authenticate the digital signature based on the received data and the first entity's key.
Optionally there is provided a method using a first entity including:
a first bit-pattern a non-volatile memory storing resource data, a first base key for use with at least a first variant key;
a second variant key for use with a second base key, the second variant key being the result of a one way function applied to: the second base key; and the first bit-pattern or a modified bit-pattern based on the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a method using a system for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity, the system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key configured to be transported from the second entity to the first entity using the transport keys, the authentication key being usable to enable the authenticated communication by the first entity.
Optionally there is provided a method including storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a method including storing a bit-pattern in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing the bit-pattern at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory locations are different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a method including storing at least one functionally identical code segment in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing a first of the at least one code segments in the memory at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory location is different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a method including providing a sequence of nonces (R0, RI, R2, ...) commencing with a current seed of a sequence of seeds (xl, x2, x3,...), the method comprising:
(a) applying a one-way function to the current seed, thereby to generate a current nonce; (b) outputting the current nonce;
(c) using the current seed to generate a next seed in a sequence of seeds, the seed so generated becoming the current seed; and (c) repeating steps (a) to (c) as required to generate further nonces in the sequence of ponces.
Optionally there is provided a method including storing multiple first bit-patterns in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising, for each of the first bit-patterns to be stored:
(a) applying a one way function to a third bit-pattern based on a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third bit-patterns used for the respective first bit-patterns are relatively unique compared to each other.
In a thirty seventh aspect the present invention provides a system for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity, the system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key configured to be transported from the second entity to the first entity using the transport keys, the authentication key being usable to enable the authenticated communication by the first entity.
Optionally the transport keys include:
a first transport key in the first entity; and a second transport key in the second entity.
Optionally the first and second transport keys are the same.
Optionally the second transport key is a base key and the first transport key is a variant key, the variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to the base key and a first bit-pattern.
Optionally the first bit-pattern is stored in the first entity.
Optionally each of the first and second transport keys is a second bit-pattern stored in the first and second entities during manufacture of the system or its components.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally the authentication key enables authenticated communication between the first and second entities.
Optionally the authentication key provides the first entity with permission to request performance of at least one operation on at least one value in the second entity.
Optionally the authentication key enables authenticated communication between the first entity and one or more entities other than the second entity.
Optionally the authentication key is a variant key.
Optionally the one or more entities include the base key corresponding to the authentication key.
Optionally the variant key in each system is relatively unique compared to the variant keys in the other systems.
Optionally the authentication key is a third bit-pattern that was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the third bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a system for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity, the system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share additional transport keys;
the second entity and each of the at least one other entities share transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key configured to be transported from the second entity to the first entity using the first transport keys and to each of the at least one other entities using the respective additional shared transport keys, such that the authentication keys, once transported to the first and at least one other entities, enable verified communication therebetween.
Optinally each pair of transport keys is different from the other pairs of transport keys.
Optionally the authentication key is the first transport key.
Optionally the authentication key is the additional transport key for one of the at least one other entities.
Optionally the authentication key is not the same as any of the transport keys.
Optionally the authentication key is a variant key, the variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to a base key and a first bit pattern Optionally the first transport key is a bit pattern stored in the first and second entities during manufacture of the system or its components.
Optionally the bit-pattern was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a method of manufacturing a system having at least first and second entities, method comprising the steps of providing the first and second entities with transport keys; and providing the second entity with at least one authentication key;
the system being configured to enable transport of the at least one authentication key from the second entity to the first entity using the transport keys, the authentication key being usable to enable the authenticated communication by the first entity.
Optionally the transport keys include:
a first transport key in the first entity; and a second transport key in the second entity.
Optionally the first and second transport keys are the same.
Optionally the second transport key is a base key and the first transport key is a variant key, the variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to the base key and a first bit-pattern.
Optionally the first bit-pattern is stored in the first entity.
Optionally each of the first and second transport keys is a second bit-pattern stored in the first and second entities during manufacture of the system or its components.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally the authentication key enables authenticated communication between the first and second entities.
Optionally the authentication key enables authenticated communication between the first entity and one or more entities other than the second entity.
Optionally the authentication key is a third bit-pattern that was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the third bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a method for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity in a system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share first transport keys;
the second entity and each of the at least one other entities share additional transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key;
the method including the steps of.
transporting the authentication key from the second entity to the first entity using the first transport keys, and to each of the at least one other entities using the respective shared additional transport keys, such that the authentication keys, once transported to the first and at least one other entities, enable verified communication therebetween.
Optionally each pair of transport keys is different from the other pairs of transport keys.
Optionally the authentication key is the first transport key.
Optionally the authentication key is one of the additional transport keys.
Optionally the authentication key is not the same as any of the transport keys.
Optionally the authentication key is a variant key, the variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to a base key and a first bit-pattern.
Optionally the first transport key is a bit-pattern stored in the first and second entities during manufacture of the system or its components.
Optionally bit-pattern was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally there is provided a method including a first entity configured to authenticate a digital signature supplied by a second entity, wherein one of the entities includes a base key and the other of the entities includes a variant key and a bit-pattern, the variant key being based on the result of applying a one way function to the base key and the bit-pattern, the digital signature having been generated by the second entity using its key to digitally signing at least part of data to be authenticated, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the digital signature from the second entity;
(b) receive the data; and (c) authenticate the digital signature based on the received data and the first entity's key.
Optionally there is provided a system including a first entity including:
a first bit-pattern a non-volatile memory storing resource data, a first base key for use with at least a first variant key;
a second variant key for use with a second base key, the second variant key being the result of a one way function applied to: the second base key; and the first bit-pattern or a modified bit-pattern based on the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of enabling or disabling a verification process of a first entity in response to a predetermined event, the first entity having at least one associated bit-pattern and at least one variant key, each of the variant keys having been generated by applying a one way function to: a base key; and one or more of the at least one bit-patterns, respectively; or one or more alternative bit patterns, each of the alternative bit-patterns being based on one or the at least one bit-patterns, the method including the method including:
(a) determining that the predetermined event has happened; and (b) enabling or disabling at least one of the first variant keys in response the predetermined event.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of storing a bit-pattern in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing the bit-pattern at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory locations are different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of storing at least one functionally identical code segment in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing a first of the at least one code segments in the memory at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory location is different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of providing a sequence of nonces (R0, Rl, R2, ...) commencing with a current seed of a sequence of seeds (xl, x2, x3,...), the method comprising:
(a) applying a one-way function to the current seed, thereby to generate a current nonce; (b) outputting the current nonce;
(c) using the current seed to generate a next seed in a sequence of seeds, the seed so generated becoming the current seed; and (c) repeating steps (a) to (c) as required to generate further nonces in the sequence of nonces.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of storing multiple first bit-patterns in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising, for each of the first bit-patterns to be stored:
(a) applying a one way function to a third bit-pattern based on a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third bit-patterns used for the respective first bit-patterns are relatively unique compared to each other.
In a thirty eighth aspect the present invention provides a method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally the one way function is more cryptographically secure than the second function.
Optionally the second function is a logical function.
Optionally the logical function is an XOR function.
Optionally the one way function is a hash function.
Optionally the one way function is SHA1.
Optionally the first bit-pattern is a key.
Optionally the method further includes the step of storing one or more code segments in the memory, the code segments being configured to run on a processor of the device, thereby enabling the device to:
apply the one way function to the second bit-pattern, thereby to generate the first result;
apply a third function to the first result and the second result, thereby to generate the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third function is the inverse of the second function.
Optionally the third function and the second function are the same.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was generated randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the method further includes the step, performed prior to step (a), of determining the second bit-pattern.
Optionally determining the second bit-pattern includes generating the second bit-pattern randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally determining the second bit-pattern includes generating the second bit-pattern based on a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally determining the second bit-pattern includes selecting the second-bit pattern from an existing list or sequence of second bit-patterns.
In a further aspect the present invention provides method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of each of a plurality of devices, the method comprising, for each of the devices:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the non-volatile memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern;
wherein the second bit-patterns of the respective devices are relatively unique with respect to each other.
Optionally the one way function is more cryptographically secure than the second function.
Optionally the second function is a logical function.
Optionally the logical function is an XOR function.
Optionally the one way function is a hash function.
Optionally the one way function is SHAT.
Optionally the first bit-pattern is a key.
Optionally step (c) comprises, for each device:
(d) determining a first memory location; and (e) storing the second result at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory locations are different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally step (d) includes randomly selecting the first memory location.
Optionally step (a) includes selecting the first memory location based on a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally step (a) includes selecting the first memory location from an existing list or sequence of memory locations.
Optionally the method further includes the step of storing one or more code segments in the device, the code segments being configured to run on a processor of the device, thereby enabling the device to:
apply the one way function to the second bit-pattern, thereby to generate the first result; and apply a third function to the first result and the second result, thereby to generate the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third function is the inverse of the second function.
Optionally the third function and the second function are the same.
Optionally the second bit-patterns have characteristics associated with random numbers.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was generated randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the method further includes the step, performed prior to step (a), of determining the second bit-pattern.
Optionally determining the second bit-pattern includes generating the second bit-pattern randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally determining the second bit-pattern includes generating the second bit-pattern based on a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally there is provided a device manufactured in accordance with the method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a device manufactured in accordance with the method including the step of storing one or more code segments in the memory, the code segments being configured to run on a processor of the device, thereby enabling the device to:
apply the one way function to the second bit-pattern, thereby to generate the first result;
apply a third function to the first result and the second result, thereby to generate the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third function is the inverse of the second function.
Optionally there is provided a device manufactured in accordance with the method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of each of a plurality of devices, the method comprising, for each of the devices:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are adjacent each other.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position I in each set, or following the nozzle at position is.
In a second aspect the present invention provides a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of is adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position xis at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the nozzle at each given position within the set is fired simultaneously with the nozzles in the other sets at respective corresponding positions.
Optionally, the method at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally, the method including expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method including manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, 5 the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a 10 printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from 15 the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows 20 comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead, wherein each of the serial outputs is configured to supply dot data for at least two channels of the at least one printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position it, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ...
, nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event it is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, the method including firing each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, the method including firing each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the method including a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the method including causing firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a fourth aspect the present invention provides method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
In a second aspect the present invention provides a method of manufacturing a plurality of pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the steps of.
manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules in accordance with claim 1; and assembling pairs of at least some of the printhead modules to form pagewidth printheads, wherein each of the printhead modules in each pagewidth printhead is shorter than the pagewidth.
Optionally the printhead modules of at least one of the pagewidth printheads are of relatively different lengths.
Optionally the printhead modules of at least one of the pagewidth printheads are of the same length.
Optionally the printhead modules of at least one of the pagewidth printheads are of relatively different lengths, and the printhead modules of at least another of the pagewidth printheads are of the same length.
Optionally at least some of the printhead modules are larger than a reticle step used in laying out those printhcad modules.
Optionally the method includes the step of laying out a plurality of left-handed and right-handed printhead modules.
Optionally the method includes the step of laying out a plurality of different lengths of left-handed and right-handed printhead modules.
Optionally, the method at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally, the method including expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises 5 a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
10 Optionally, the method including expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
15 (c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
20 at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
25 a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire, groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally, the method being used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead, wherein each of the serial outputs is configured to supply dot data for at least two channels of the at least one printhead.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle 10 position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally 1, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in 15 each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event is is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
20 Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module including at least one row of 25 printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being 30 grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally, the method being performed in conjunction with a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a fifth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, there is a one to one correspondence between the nozzles and elements of the two shift registers.
Optionally, each of the shift registers supplies dot data to about half of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one pair of rows of the nozzles, the rows in each pair being offset with respect to each other by half the intra-row nozzle spacing.
Optionally, each of the at least two shift registers supplies dot data to at least some of the nozzles in at least one pair of rows.
Optionally the present invention provides a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally, the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module having been manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and 5 supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least 10 one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows 15 of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each 20 subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
25 dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that (a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optional a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a sixth aspect the present invention provides printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input 5 of the printhead.
Optionally the printer including at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
10 Optionally the printer configured such that the first and second printer controllers sequentially provide the dot data to the common input.
Optionally the printer further including a second printhead module, the printer being configured such that: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the 15 second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality 20 of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a print engine comprising:
25 a carrier;
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input 30 of the printhead.
Optionally the printer including at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally the printer configured such that the first and second printer controllers alternately provide the dot data to the common input.
Optionally the printer further including a second printhead module, the printer being configured such that: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least first and second rows of print nozzles for expelling ink;
and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to the printhead to supply data for the first and second rows of nozzles, respectively.
Optionally the printer including at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-I), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer including a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the fast printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the rust printer controller.
Optionally the printer including at least one printhead module, configured for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer including a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for sending to a printhead:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
5 Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and 10 a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of 15 printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape.in plan.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, 20 each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and 25 (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent 30 nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event is is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event is is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer including a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a seventh aspect the present invention provides a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to a printhead module of arbitrary length.
Optionally the first and second printhead modules are equal in length.
Optionally the first and second printhead modules are unequal in length.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a print engine comprising:
a carrier;
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being mounted parallel to each other end to end on the carrier on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers mounted on the carrier and being configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the print engine includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to a printhead module of arbitrary 5 length.
Optionally the first and second printhead modules are equal in length.
Optionally the first and second printhead modules are unequal in length.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire. signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer includes a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer comprises:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer comprises:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer comprises:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer comprises at least one printhead module, configured for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer comprises a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a fast threshold.
Optionally the printer controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for sending to a printhead:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
5 Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the 10 channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied'from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In an eighth aspect the present invention provides a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot data by the printer controllers.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a print engine comprising:
a carrier;
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being mounted parallel to each other end to end on the carrier on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers mounted on the carrier and being configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein:
the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the print engine includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer includes a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer includes:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer includes:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer includes:
5 a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead 10 module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer includes at least one printhead module, configured for at least partially compensating for 15 errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at 20 least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer includes a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a 25 temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a 30 printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for sending to a printhead:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the pnnthead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module comprising a plurality 5 of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
10 In a ninth aspect the present invention provides a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to 15 output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
20 Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot data by the printer controllers.
25 Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
30 In a further aspect the present invention provides a print engine comprising:
a carrier;
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being mounted parallel to each other end to end on the carrier on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the print engine includes at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
Optionally each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality of different lengths.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence; [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of.
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into.
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
5 (b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-I), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a tenth aspect the present invention provides printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally, the nozzles are disposed in a plurality of rows, and the printer controller is configured to reallocate at least one of the ink dots from at least one original print line to at least one alternate print line, thereby to effect the at least partial compensation.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to retrieve the correction factor from a memory associated with the printhead.
Optionally, the memory is mounted with the printhead, the printhead being mounted on the print engine.
Optionally, the rotational displacement is roll.
Optionally, the rotational displacement is yaw.
Optionally, the printhead module being one of a plurality of printhead modules mounted on a carrier to form a printhead and the error in ink dot placement being an error relative to ink dots output by one or more of the other printhead modules Optionally, the printhead module is part of a printhead comprising a plurality of the modules, the printer controller being configured to determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to a plurality of the printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of one or more of the correction factors, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement of the plurality of the printheads.
Optionally, the correction factor is at least partially based on a thickness of media being printed on.
Optionally the printer controller configured to at least improve first order continuity between ink dots printed by adjacent printhead modules.
Optionally a print engine including the print controller according and a plurality of the printhead modules that define a printhead, the print engine being configured to compensate for the rotational displacement of at least one of the printhead modules.
Optionally the print engine further including a memory for storing the correction factor in a form accessible to the printer controller.
Optionally the print engine is configured to alter a timing of fire signals supplied to at least one of the nozzles on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to further effect the at least partial compensation.
Optionally the print engine is configured to supply the altered fire signals are to both reallocated ink dots and non-reallocated ink dots.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optional a printer including a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead 5 module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at 10 least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer further including a pagewidth printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules.
15 Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
20 (b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
25 Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position xis at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first p inthead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller, and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulates the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
5 Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the 10 channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In an eleventh aspect the present invention provides printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to modify the operation of the nozzles at or adjacent the at least one thermal sensor, such that operation of nozzles not at or adjacent the at least one thermal sensor is not modified.
Optionally each thermal sensor is associated with a predetermined group of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in the predetermined group for which the temperature has risen above the first threshold.
Optionally each thermal sensor is associated with a single nozzle.
Optionally the modification includes the printer controller preventing operation of the nozzle.
Optionally the modification includes the printer controller preventing operation of the nozzle for a predetermined period.
Optionally the modification includes the printer controller preventing operation of the nozzle until the temperature drops below a second threshold.
Optionally the second threshold is lower than the first threshold.
Optionally the second threshold is the same as the first threshold.
Optionally the temperature is not determined explicitly by the at least one thermal sensor or the module.
Optionally each of the nozzles including a thermal ink ejection mechanism.
Optionally the thermal sensor comprises at least part of one of the thermal inkjet mechanisms.
Optionally the thermal sensor comprises a heating element.
Optionally the thermal sensor determines the temperature by determining a resistance of the heating element.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to:
receive thermal information from the at least one thermal sensor, determine the modification based on the thermal information; and send control information back to the printhead module, the control information being indicative of the modification to make to the operation of the one or more nozzles.
Optionally a print engine including a printer controller configured to:
receive thermal information from the at least one thermal sensor, determine the modification based on the thermal information; and send control information back to the printhead module, the control information being indicative of the modification to make to the operation of the one or more nozzles; and a printhead module, wherein the printhead module further includes a plurality of data latches, the data latches being configured to provide dot data to respective ones of the nozzles, at least some of the data latches being configured to receive thermal signals from respective ones of the thermal sensors during an acquisition period.
Optionally the data latches are configured to form a shift register, the shift register being configured to:
shift the print data in during a print load phase;
sample the signals from the thermal sensors during a temperature load phase;
and shift the thermal signals out to the printer controller during an output phase.
Optionally the output phase coincides with a subsequent print load phase.
Optionally the print engine further includes logic circuitry configured to perform a bitwise operation on: each thermal signal as it is clocked out of the shift register; and each piece of dot data to be clocked into the shift register, such that when a thermal signal is indicative of a thermal problem with a nozzle, the logic circuitry prevents loading of data that would cause firing of that nozzle.
Optionally the logic circuitry includes an AND circuit that receives as inputs the dot data and the thermal signal corresponding to the nozzle for which the dot data is intended, an output of the AND circuit being in communication with an input of the shift register.
Optionally each thermal sensor is associated with a pair of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: (nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
5 (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the. printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at 5 least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion 10 including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, 15 the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows 20 configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller further includes a logic circuit accepting as inputs a masking signal and the thermal signal corresponding to the nozzle for which the dot data is intended, the logic circuit outputting the thermal signal to the input of the AND circuit in reliance on a value of the masking signal.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for at least one nozzle position, including the nozzle for which the current dot data is intended.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for a plurality of nozzle positions corresponding to a region of the printhead associated the nozzle for which the current dot data is intended.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for all of the nozzle positions of the printhead.
In a twelfth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the one or more control signals include a fire control sequence indicative of a first fire group to be fired.
Optionally, the printhead being configured to shift the fire control sequence through a shift register to cause subsequent firing of the second and any other fire groups, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide the fire control sequence during an initiation phase of the printhead, such that the fire control sequence does not need to be repeatedly provided by the printer controller while printing is taking place.
Optionally, the printhead being configured to shift the fire control sequence through a shift register to cause subsequent firing of the second and any other fire groups, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide the fire control sequence periodically during printing.
Optionally the printhead being configured to provide the fire control sequence on a per row or per print-line basis.
Optionally the printhead being configured to provide a fire enable signal in addition to the one or more fire control signals, such that the combination of the fire enable and fire control signals cause selected ones of the nozzles to fire in the predetermined sequence and in accordance with a predetermined timing.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a print engine including a printhead and a printer controller, the printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the one or more control signals include a fire control sequence indicative of a first fire group to be fired.
Optionally the printhead being configured to shift the fire control sequence through a shift register to cause subsequent firing of the second and any other fire groups, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide the fire control sequence during an initiation phase of the printhead, such that the fire control sequence does not need to be repeatedly provided by the printer controller while printing is taking place.
Optionally, the printhead being configured to shift the fire control sequence through a shift register to cause subsequent firing of the second and any other fire groups, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide the fire control sequence periodically during printing.
Optionally the print engine being configured to provide the fire control sequence on a per row or per print line basis.
Optionally the print engine being configured to provide a fire enable signal in addition to the one or more fire control signals, such that the combination of the fire enable and fire control signals cause selected ones of the nozzles to fire in the predetermined sequence and in accordance with a predetermined timing.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of.
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n- 1), ... , nozzle position xj, wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a fast and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle positionx is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printer controller being configured to control the at least one printhead module to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally the printer controller configurable to control the printhead module such that the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printer controller configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printer controller configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a thirteenth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the communication output is configured to output the dot data and control data serially.
Optionally the printer controller further includes a plurality of the communication outputs.
Optionally the printer controller further includes a plurality of the communication outputs.
Optionally a print engine comprising a print controller and a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead modules being disposed end to end for printing a width exceeding that of any of the individual printhead modules, the communications input of each of the printhead modules being connected to a common dot data and control data bus, the common dot data and control data bus being in functional communication with the communication output.
Optionally each module is configured to respond to dot data and control data on the bus only when it is intended for that module.
Optionally a printer incorporating a print engine comprising a print controller and a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead modules being disposed end to end for printing a width exceeding that of any of the individual printhead modules, the communications input of each of the printhead modules being connected to a common dot data and control data bus, the common dot data and control data bus being in functional communication with the communication output.
Optionally a printer incorporating a print controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead modules together form a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer further including a pagewidth printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position xis at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of.
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n- 1), ...
, nozzle position x), wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and.then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to-the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller provides data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a fourteenth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed, the printer controller being configured to control order and timing of the data supplied to the printhead such that the dropped row is compensated for during printing by the printhead module.
Optionally the displaced row portion is disposed adjacent one end of the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, wherein each of at least a plurality of the rows includes one of the displaced row portions.
Optionally the displaced row portions of at least some of the rows are different in length than the displaced row portions of at least some of the other rows.
Optionally each of the rows has a displaced row portion, and the sizes of the respective displaced row portions increase from row to row in the direction normal to that of the pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies the data to a printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules, wherein the displaced row portion of at least one of the printhead modules is disposed adjacent another of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printhead modules are the same shape and configuration as each other, and are arranged end to end across the intended print width.
Optionally, the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally, the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller, and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a fast threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it In a fifteenth aspect the present invention provides printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the first number is n.
Optionally the first number is less than n.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable into at least one other mode, in which the at least one printhead module is configured to receive print data for a third number of print channels other than the first and second numbers, the printer controller being selectively configurable to supply the print data for the third number of print channels.
Optionally n is 4 and the second number is less than 4.
Optionally n is 5 and the second number is less than 5.
Optionally n is 6 and the second number is less than 6.
Optionally the second number is 3, 4 or S.
Optionally the print engine includes the print controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes;
and the at least one printhead module.
Optionally the mode is selected based on the contents of a memory associated with the at least one printhead module.
Optionally the memory is a register.
Optionally the register is on an integrated circuit forming part of the print engine.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer includes a print engine including the print controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes;
and the at least one printhead module.
Optionally the printer includes a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes; and including a pagewidth printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired, and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally a printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, Optionally the printer controller installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fined before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controllers supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the fast and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a fast mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a sixteenth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead comprises a plurality of at least one of the types of module.
Optionally the printhead comprises a plurality of each of at least two of the types of module.
Optionally the printhead comprises two types of the module.
Optionally the two types of module alternate across a print width of the printhead.
Optionally, each of the modules including at least one row of print nozzles, wherein each of the at least one row of print nozzles includes at least a portion that extends at an acute angle to an intended relative direction of movement between the printhead and print media.
Optionally the different types of modules are configured, and arranged relative to each other, such that there is substantially no growth in offset of each of the at least one row of print nozzles in a direction across an intended print width of the printhead.
Optionally each of the printhead modules is a monolithic integrated circuit.
Optionally, each of the modules including at least one row of print nozzles, wherein each of the at least one rows includes at least two sub-rows, each of the sub-rows being parallel to each other and displaced relative to each other in a direction of intended movement of print media relative to the printhead.
Optionally at least one row in each of the printhead modules prints an ink corresponding to at least one row on an adjacent printhead module, wherein the corresponding rows of at least two of the different printhead modules are offset from each other in a direction of intended movement of print media relative to the printhead, Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally, the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carver, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the fast and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a seventeenth aspect the present invention provides printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the printer controller being configured to control the printhead module such that steps (a) to (d) are repeated for each of the rows of nozzles.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are adjacent each other.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position 1 in each set, or following the nozzle at position n.
Optionally the printhead module is one of a plurality of printhead modules that form a pagewidth printhead, the printer controller being configure to supply the control signals to at least a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position xJ, wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the,print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, the printer controller being configured to cause firing of each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printer controller includes a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printer controller being configured to control the at least one printhead module to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to control the printhead such that the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printer controller is configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printer controller is configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In an eighteenth aspect the present invention provides printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to cause the nozzle at each given position within the set to be fired simultaneously with the nozzles in the other sets at respective corresponding positions.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the printer controller being configured to control the printhead module such that the steps are repeated for each of the rows of nozzles.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are adjacent each other.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position 1 in each set, or following the nozzle at position n.
Optionally the printhead module is one of a plurality of printhead modules that form a pagewidth printhead, the printer controller being configure to supply the control signals to at least a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the rust printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into-a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1J, ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event it is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows, the printer controller being configured to cause firing of each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printer controller includes a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printer controller being configured to control the at least one printhead module to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally the printer controller is configured to control the printhead such that the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printer controller is configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printer controller is configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a nineteenth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally print engine comprising a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module. comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing; and a printhead module, wherein the printhead module is controllable such that either of the nozzles in each aligned pair of nozzles in the first and second rows can be selected to output ink for a selected dot to be printed on the print media.
Optionally in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, the corresponding nozzle in the second row is selected to output ink for a dot for which the faulty nozzle would otherwise have output ink.
Optionally the print engine includes a plurality of sets of the first and second rows.
Optionally each of the sets of the first and second rows is configured to print in a single color or ink type.
Optionally the first and second rows in at least one of the sets are separated by one or more rows from the other set or sets.
Optionally each of the rows includes an odd sub-row and an even sub-row, the odd and even sub-rows being offset with respect to each other in a direction of intended print media travel relative to the printhead.
Optionally the odd and even sub-rows are transversely offset relative to each other.
Optionally the print engine is configured such that the first and second rows are fired alternately.
Optionally the print engine comprises a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally a printer including a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally a printer including a print engine comprising a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing; and a printhead module, wherein the printhead module is controllable such that either of the nozzles in each aligned pair of nozzles in the first and second rows can be selected to output ink for a selected dot to be printed on the print media.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twentieth aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally a print engine comprising a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it; and the at least one printhead module, wherein each nozzle in the first row is paired with a nozzle in the second row, such that each pair of nozzles is aligned in an intended direction of print media travel relative to the printhead module.
Optionally the print engine includes a plurality of sets of the first and second rows.
Optionally each of the sets of the first and second rows is configured to print in a single color or ink type.
Optionally each of the rows includes an odd and an even sub-row, the odd and even sub-rows being offset with respect to each other in a direction of print media travel relative to the printhead in use.
Optionally the odd and even sub-rows are transversely offset with respect to each other.
Optionally a printer including at least one printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally a printer includes at least one print engine comprising a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it; and the at least one printhead module, wherein each nozzle in the first row is paired with a nozzle in the second row, such that each pair of nozzles is aligned in an intended direction of print media travel relative to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
.10 Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a,pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty first aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead, wherein each of the serial outputs is configured to supply dot data for at least two channels of the at least one printhead.
Optionally the at least two channels include at least two color channels.
Optionally the at least two channels include at least one fixative channel.
Optionally the at least two channels include at least one infrared ink channel.
Optionally the first data includes one or more instructions associated with production of the dot data from the first data, the print controller including processing means for producing the dot data from the first data on the basis of the one or more instructions.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least. two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-I), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fine the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty second aspect the present invention provides a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally there is a one to one correspondence between the nozzles and respective elements of the first and second shift registers.
Optionally each of the shift registers supplies dot data to about half of the nozzles in a row.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one pair of rows of the nozzles, the rows in each pair being offset in a direction parallel to the rows by half the intra-row nozzle spacing.
Optionally each of the at least two shift registers supplies dot data to at least some of the nozzles in at least the pair of rows.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows configured to print using at least two ink channels, the nozzles for each of the ink channels being fed the dot data from at least one pair of first and second registers.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink, and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that (a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhcad module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the fast data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhcad.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhcad modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x), wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty third aspect the present invention provides a printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the first number is n.
Optionally the first number is less than n.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable into at least one other mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a number of print channels other than the first and second numbers.
Optionally n is 4 and the second number is less than 4.
Optionally n is 5 and the second number is less than 5.
Optionally n is 6 and the second number is less than 6.
Optionally the second number is 3, 4 or 5.
Optionally the selected mode is selected based on the contents of a memory associated with the printhead.
Optionally the memory is a register.
Optionally the register is on an integrated circuit, and wherein the integrated circuit and the printhead are mounted to a print engine.
Optionally printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the fast printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller, and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a fast and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty fourth aspect the present invention provides a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead comprising a plurality of at least one of the types of module.
Optionally the printhead comprising a plurality of each of at least two of the types of module.
Optionally the printhead comprising two types of the module.
Optionally the two types of module alternate across a print width of the printhead.
Optionally each of the modules including at least one row of print nozzles, wherein each of the at least one row of print nozzles includes at least a portion that extends at an acute angle to an intended relative direction of movement between the printhead and print media.
Optionally the different types of modules are configured, and arranged relative to each other, such that there is substantially no growth in offset of each of the at least one row of print nozzles in a direction across an intended print width of the printhead.
Optionally each of the printhead modules is a monolithic integrated circuit.
Optionally each of the modules including at least one row of print nozzles, wherein each of the at least one rows includes at least two sub-rows, each of the sub-rows being parallel to each other and displaced relative to each other in a direction of intended movement of print media relative to the printhead.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a.join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller, and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead further including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: (nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), .,. , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position xis at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printhead further including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead further including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead receives dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printhead further including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printhead further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printhead is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty fifth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the nozzle at each given position within the set is fired simultaneously with the nozzles in the other sets at respective corresponding positions.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the printhead module being configured to fire all the nozzles on each row prior to firing any nozzles from a subsequent row.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are adjacent each other.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position 1 in each set, or following the nozzle at position n.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller, and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a fast number of the channels; and .20 a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a.printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that (a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or.color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module further comprising a plurality of the rows, the printhead module being configured to fire each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configured to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a twenty sixth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the.
nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of the rows of nozzles, the printhead module being configured to fire all the nozzles on each row prior to firing any nozzles from a subsequent row.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset relative to each other.
Optionally each pair of rows is configured to print the same color ink.
Optionally each pair of rows is connected to a common ink source.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are adjacent each other.
Optionally the sets of nozzles are separated by an intermediate nozzle, the intermediate nozzle being fired either prior to the nozzle at position I in each set, or following the nozzle at position n.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the fast row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired, and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module further comprising a plurality of the rows, the printhead module being configured to fire each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configured to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a twenty seventh aspect the present invention provides a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the communication input is configured to receive the dot data and control data serially.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of the communication inputs.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of the communication inputs.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data;
the printhead modules being disposed end to end for printing a width exceeding that of any of the individual printhead modules, the communications input of each of the printhead modules being connected to a common dot data and control data bus.
Optionally each module is configured to respond to dot data and control data on the bus only when it is intended for that module.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of.
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired, and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead_ Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead 'module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printbead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty eighth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the displaced row portion is disposed adjacent one end of the monolithic printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of the rows, wherein each of at least a plurality of the rows includes one of the displaced row portions.
Optionally the displaced row portions of at least some of the rows are different in length than the displaced row portions of at least some of the other rows.
Optionally each of the rows has a displaced row portion, and the sizes of the respective displaced row portions increase from row to row in the direction normal to that of the pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the dropped rows together comprise a generally trapezoidal shape, in plan.
Optionally the dropped rows together comprise a generally triangular shape, in plan.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, including at least one of the printhead modules including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, including at least one the printhead modules according to claim 2, wherein the displaced row portion of at least one of the printhead modules is disposed adjacent another of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printhead modules are the same shape and configuration as each other, and are arranged end to end across the intended print width.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of-(a) determining the rotational displacement;, (b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle -in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event ,n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting In dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position it, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a twenty ninth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the rows are disposed in pairs extending generally transverse to a direction media is to be moved relative to the printhead.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are configured to print the same color ink as each other.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows share an ink supply.
Optionally the rows in each pair of rows are offset with respect to each other.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to fire the nozzles such that at least some ink dots from one row land on top of dots previously deposited by one or more of the other rows.
Optionally the printhead module is operable in at least two fire modes, wherein at least some of the at least two fire modes define relatively different numbers of nozzles in each of the fire groups.
Optionally at least some of the at least two fire groups define relatively different fire group sequences.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller, Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhcad module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that (a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles Is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type Is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module further comprises a plurality of the rows, the printhead module being configured to fire each nozzle in each row simultaneously with the nozzle or nozzles at the same position in the other rows.
Optionally the printhead module further includes a plurality of pairs of the rows, each pair of rows including an odd row and an even row, the odd and even rows in each pair being offset from each other in both x and y directions relative to an intended direction of print media movement relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configured to cause firing of at least a plurality of the odd rows prior to firing any of the even rows, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows are fired before any of the even rows are fired, or vice versa.
Optionally all the odd rows, or the even rows, or both, are fired in a predetermined order.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order is selectable from a plurality of predetermined available orders.
Optionally the predetermined order is sequential.
Optionally the printhead module is configurable such that the predetermined order can commence at any of a plurality of the rows.
In a thirtieth aspect the present invention provides a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first row and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second row.
Optionally the printhead module is controllable such that either of the nozzles in each aligned pair of nozzles in the first and second rows can be selected to output ink for a selected dot to be printed on the print media.
Optionally in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, the corresponding nozzle in the second row is selected to output ink for a dot for which the faulty nozzle would otherwise have output ink.
Optionally the printhead module includes a plurality of sets of the first and second rows.
Optionally each of the sets of the first and second rows is configured to print in a single color or ink type.
Optionally the first and second rows in at least one of the sets are separated by one or more rows from the other set or sets.
Optionally each of the rows includes an odd sub-row and an even sub-row, the odd and even sub-rows being offset with respect to each other in a direction of intended print media travel relative to the printhead.
Optionally the odd and even sub-rows are transversely offset relative to each other.
Optionally the printhead module is configured such that the first and second rows are fired alternately.
Optionally a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first row and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second row.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of.
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired, and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth piintheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:, a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x), wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
30' Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the fast pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a thirty first aspect the present invention provides a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally there is a one to one correspondence between the nozzles and respective elements of the first and second shift registers.
Optionally each of the shift registers supplies dot data to about half of the nozzles in a row.
Optionally the printer controller includes at least one pair of rows of the nozzles, the rows in each pair being offset in a direction parallel to the rows by half the intra-row nozzle spacing.
Optionally each of the at least two shift registers supplies dot data to at least some of the nozzles in at least the pair of rows.
Optionally the printer includes a plurality of the rows configured to print using at least two ink channels, the nozzles for each of the ink channels being fed the dot data from at least one pair of first and second registers.
Optionally the printhead module forms part of a printhead.
Optionally the printhead includes a plurality of the printhead modules and the printer controller is configured to supply data to a plurality of the modules.
Optionally the printhead is a pagewidth printhead comprising a plurality of the printhead modules.
Optionally the printer controller is for implementing a method of expelling ink from a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least a first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller controls a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller outputs to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position is, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printer controller supplies dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printer controller receives first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module including at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printer controller supplies data to a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a thirty second aspect the present invention provides a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to modify the operation of the nozzles at or adjacent the at least one thermal sensor, such that operation of nozzles not at or adjacent the at least one thermal sensor is not modified.
Optionally each thermal sensor is associated with a predetermined group of the nozzles, the nozzles in the predetermined group being those for which the operation is modified.
Optionally each thermal sensor is associated with a single nozzle.
Optionally the modification includes preventing operation of the nozzle.
Optionally the modification includes preventing operation of the nozzle for a predetermined period.
Optionally the modification includes preventing operation of the nozzle until the temperature drops below a second threshold.
Optionally the second threshold is lower than the first threshold.
Optionally the second threshold is the same as the first threshold.
Optionally the temperature is not determined explicitly by the at least one thermal sensor or the module.
Optionally the printhead module is a thermal inkjet printhead module and each of the nozzles includes a thermal ink ejection mechanism.
Optionally the thermal sensor comprises at least part of one of the thermal inkjet mechanisms.
Optionally the thermal sensor comprises a heating element.
Optionally the thermal sensor determines the temperature by determining a resistance of the heating element.
Optionally printhead module according to claim 1, configured to:
output thermal information from the at least one thermal sensor to a controller; and receive control information back from the controller, the control information being indicative of the modification to make to the operation of the one or more nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further including a plurality of data latches, the data latches being configured to provide dot data to respective ones of the nozzles, at least some of the data latches being configured to receive thermal signals from respective ones of the thermal sensors during an acquisition period.
Optionally the data latches are configured to form a shift register, the shift register being configured to:
shift the print data in during a print load phase;
sample the signals from the thermal sensors during a temperature load phase;
and shift the thermal signals out during an output phase.
Optionally the output phase coincides with a subsequent print load phase.
Optionally the printhead module further including logic circuitry configured to perform a bitwise operation on:
each thermal signal as it is clocked out of the shift register; and each piece of dot data to be clocked into the shift register, such that when a thermal signal is indicative of a thermal problem with a nozzle, the logic circuitry prevents loading of data that would cause firing of that nozzle.
Optionally the logic circuitry includes an AND circuit that receives as inputs the dot data and the thermal signal corresponding to the nozzle for which the dot data is intended, an output of the AND circuit being in communication with an input of the shift register.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of (a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at Last first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number;
wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that.
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event n is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module further including a logic circuit accepting as inputs a masking signal and the thermal signal corresponding to the nozzle for which the dot data is intended, the logic circuit outputting the thermal signal to the input of the AND circuit in reliance on a value of the masking signal.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for at least one nozzle position, including the nozzle for which the current dot data is intended.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for a plurality of nozzle positions corresponding to a region of the printhead associated the nozzle for which the current dot data is intended.
Optionally the value of the masking signal enables masking of the thermal signal for all of the nozzle positions of the printhead.
In a thirty third aspect the present invention provides a printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally each nozzle in the first row is paired with a nozzle in the second row, such that each pair of nozzles is aligned in an intended direction of print media travel relative to the printhead module.
Optionally each printhead module further including a plurality of sets of the first and second rows.
Optionally each of the sets of the first and second rows is configured to print in a single color or ink type.
Optionally each of the rows includes an odd and an even sub-row, the odd and even sub-rows being offset with respect to each other in a direction of print media travel relative to the printhead in use.
Optionally the odd and even sub-rows are transversely offset with respect to each other.
Optionally printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules wherein each nozzle in the first row is paired with a nozzle in the second row, such that each pair of nozzles is aligned in an intended direction of print media travel relative to the printhead module.
Optionally printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules each of the sets of the first and second rows is configured to print in a single color or ink type.
Optionally the printhead being a pagewidth printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles due to erroneous rotational displacement of a printhead module relative to a carrier has been applied, the nozzles being disposed on the printhead module, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) determining the rotational displacement;
(b) determining at least one correction factor that at least partially compensates for the ink dot displacement;
and (c) using the correction factor to alter the output of the ink dots to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to afire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-I), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is configured to receive dot data to which a method of expelling ink has been applied, the method being applied to a printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a fire signal to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) providing a fire signal to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and (d) in the event n is an odd number, repeating step (b) until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then firing the central nozzle.
Optionally the printhead module is manufactured in accordance with a method of manufacturing a plurality of printhead modules, at least some of which are capable of being combined in pairs to form bilithic pagewidth printheads, the method comprising the step of laying out each of the plurality of printhead modules on a wafer substrate, wherein at least one of the printhead modules is right-handed and at least another is left-handed.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least two shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source to each of the at least one rows, wherein each print nozzle obtains dot data to be fired from an element of one of the shift registers.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising at least the first elongate printhead module, the at least one printhead module including at least one row of print nozzles for expelling ink; and at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data only to the first printhead module and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module; and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is installed in a printer comprising:
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being parallel to each other and being disposed end to end on either side of a join region, wherein the first printhead module is longer than the second printhead module;
at least first and second printer controllers configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data for the printhead, wherein: the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second controller; and the second printer controller outputs dot data to the second printhead module, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data it generates and at least some of the dot data received from the first printer controller.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module and at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by at least one of a plurality of nozzles on the printhead module due to erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, the printer being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer controller being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for controlling a head comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is, in communication with a printer controller for outputting to a printhead module:
dot data to be printed with at least two different inks; and control data for controlling printing of the dot data;
the printer controller including at least one communication output, each or the communication output being configured to output at least some of the control data and at least some of the dot data for the at least two inks.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying print data to at least one printhead module capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the at least one printhead module being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive data for a first number of the channels; and a second mode, in which the printhead module is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number, wherein the printer controller is selectively configurable to supply dot data for the first and second modes.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying data to a printhead comprising a plurality of printhead modules, the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that:
(a) a fire signal is provided to nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles;
(b) a fire signal is provided to the next inward pair of nozzles in each set;
(c) in the event n is an even number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles in each set has been fired;
and (d) in the event n is an odd number, step (b) is repeated until all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then the central nozzle is fired.
Optionally the printhead module is used in conjunction with a printer controller for supplying one or more control signals to a printhead module, the printhead module including at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, the method comprising providing, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position 1, nozzle position n, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-1), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to a printhead module comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows, the printer controller being configurable to supply dot data to the printhead module for printing.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for supplying dot data to at least one printhead module, the at least one printhead module comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, the printer controller being configured to supply the dot data to the at least one printhead module such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
Optionally the printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for receiving first data and manipulating the first data to produce dot data to be printed, the print controller including at least two serial outputs for supplying the dot data to at least one printhead.
Optionally the printhead module further including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module being capable of printing a maximum of n of channels of print data, the printhead being configurable into:
a first mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a first number of the channels;
and a second mode, in which the printhead is configured to receive print data for a second number of the channels, wherein the first number is greater than the second number.
Optionally a module further comprising a plurality of printhead modules including:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles Is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles; and the printhead being wider than a reticle step used in forming the modules, the printhead comprising at least two types of the modules, wherein each type is determined by its geometric shape in plan.
Optionally the printhead module includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of sets of n adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel ink in response to a fire signal, such that, for each set of nozzles, a fire signal is provided in accordance with the sequence: [nozzle position i, nozzle position it, nozzle position 2, nozzle position (n-I), ... , nozzle position x], wherein nozzle position x is at or adjacent the centre of the set of nozzles.
Optionally the printhead module further includes at least one row that comprises a plurality of adjacent sets of it adjacent nozzles, each of the nozzles being configured to expel the ink in response to a fire signal, the printhead being configured to output ink from nozzles at a first and nth position in each set of nozzles, and then each next inward pair of nozzles in each set, until:
in the event n is an even number, all of the nozzles in each set has been fired; and in the event it is an odd number, all of the nozzles but a central nozzle in each set have been fired, and then to fire the central nozzle.
Optionally a printhead module for receiving dot data to be printed using at least two different inks and control data for controlling printing of the dot data, the printhead module including a communication input for receiving the dot data for the at least two colors and the control data.
Optionally a printhead module further includes at least one row of printhead nozzles, at least one row including at least one displaced row portion, the displacement of the row portion including a component in a direction normal to that of a pagewidth to be printed.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, at least some nozzles in the first row being aligned with respective corresponding nozzles in the second row in a direction of intended media travel relative to the printhead, the printhead module being configurable such that the nozzles in the first and second pairs of rows are fired such that some dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the first pair of rows and at least some other dots output to print media are printed to by nozzles from the second pair of rows.
Optionally a printhead module is in communication with a printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes:
at least one row of print nozzles;
at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles.
Optionally a printhead module having a plurality of nozzles for expelling ink, the printhead module including a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printhead module being configured to modify operation of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Optionally a printhead module further comprising a plurality of rows, each of the rows comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink, wherein the printhead module includes at least first and second rows configured to print ink of a similar type or color, and being configured such that, in the event a nozzle in the first row is faulty, a corresponding nozzle in the second row prints an ink dot at a position on print media at or adjacent a position where the faulty nozzle would otherwise have printed it.
In a thirty fourth aspect the present invention provides a first entity configured to authenticate a digital signature supplied by a second entity, wherein one of the entities includes a base key and the other of the entities includes a variant key and a bit-pattern, the variant key being based on the result of applying a one way function to the base key and the bit-pattern, the digital signature having been generated by the second entity using its key to digitally signing at least part of data to be authenticated, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the digital signature from the second entity;
(b) receive the data; and (c) authenticate the digital signature based on the received data and the first entity's key.
Optionally the first entity includes the base key, the first entity being configured to receive, from the second entity, the bit-pattern, wherein (c) includes:
generating the variant key from the bit-pattern and the base key; and authenticating the digital signature using the generated variant key.
Optionally, the first entity storing information, wherein the data is indicative of a request to be performed on the information.
Optionally the information is a value.
Optionally the data is indicative of a read instruction.
Optionally the data is indicate of a write instruction, the data being indicative of new information to be written.
Optionally the data is indicative of a function to be applied to the information.
Optionally the function is a decrement or increment function.
Optionally the data is indicative of a value stored in the second entity.
Optionally the first entity being configured to send a request to the second entity, the data being returned in response to the request.
Optionally the data is indicative of a value stored in the second entity.
Optionally the first entity being configured to digitally sign at least some of the request with the base key.
Optionally the first entity has the base key.
Optionally the first entity storing information, wherein the data is indicative of a request to be performed on the information.
Optionally the information is a value.
Optionally the data is indicative of a read instruction.
Optionally the data is indicate of a write instruction, the data being indicative of new information to be written.
Optionally the data is indicative of a function to be applied to the information.
Optionally the function is a decrement or increment function.
Optionally the data is indicative of a value stored in the second entity.
Optionally the first entity being configured to send a read request to the second entity, the data being returned in response to the request.
Optionally the data is indicative of a value stored in the second entity.
Optionally the first entity being configured to digitally sign at least some of the request with the base key.
Optionally there is provided a first entity, including:
a first bit-pattern a non-volatile memory storing resource data, a first base key for use with at least a first variant key;
a second variant key for use with a second base key, the second variant key being the result of a one way function applied to: the second base key; and the first bit-pattern or a modified bit-pattern based on the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for use in a method of enabling or disabling a verification process of a first entity in response to a predetermined event, the first entity having at least one associated bit-pattern and at least one variant key, each of the variant keys having been generated by applying a one way function to: a base key; and one or more of the at least one bit-patterns, respectively; or one or more alternative bit patterns, each of the alternative bit-patterns being based on one or the at least one bit-patterns, the method including the method including:
(a) determining that the predetermined event has happened; and (b) enabling or disabling at least one of the first variant keys in response the predetermined event.
Optionally there is provided a first entity for use in a system for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity, the system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key configured to be transported from the second entity to the first entity using the transport keys, the authentication key being usable to enable the authenticated communication by the first entity.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for use in a method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for use in a method of storing a bit-pattern in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing the bit-pattern at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory locations are different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for use in a method of storing at least one functionally identical code segment in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing a first of the at least one code segments in the memory at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory location is different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for implementing a method for providing a sequence of nonces (R0, RI, R2, ...) commencing with a current seed of a sequence of seeds (xl, x2, x3,...), the method comprising:
(a) applying a one-way function to the current seed, thereby to generate a current nonce; (b) outputting the current nonce;
(c) using the current seed to generate a next seed in a sequence of seeds, the seed so generated becoming the current seed; and (c) repeating steps (a) to (c) as required to generate further nonces in the sequence of nonces.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for implementing a method of storing multiple first bit-patterns in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising, for each of the first bit-patterns to be stored:
(a) applying a one way function to a third bit-pattern based on a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third bit-patterns used for the respective first bit-patterns are relatively unique compared to each other.
In a thirty fifth aspect the present invention provides a first entity including:
a first bit-pattern a non-volatile memory storing resource data, a first base key for use with at least a first variant key;
a second variant key for use with a second base key, the second variant key being the result of a one way function applied to: the second base key; and the first bit-pattern or a modified bit-pattern based on the first bit-pattern.
Optionally the first variant key is stored in a second entity.
Optionally the second base key is stored in a third entity.
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of a plurality of second entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the second entities having an associated bit-pattern and one of the first variant keys, the first variant key in each of second entities being based on the result of applying a one way function to the first base key and the associated bit pattern of that second entity, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from one of the second entities;
(b) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(c) use the first base key to digitally sign at least part of the response, thereby to generate a digital signature;
and (d) send the response and the digital signature to the second entity from which the request was received, such that the second entity can verify the at least part of the response using its variant key.
Optionally the first entity is configured to, prior to (b), receive the associated bit-pattern from the second entity that makes the request in (a), wherein (c) includes: -(i) using the first base key and the associated bit-pattern received from the second entity to generate the first variant key of the second entity making the request in (a); and (ii) using the first variant key generated in (i) to perform the signing of at least part of the response the response.
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(e) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(f) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(g) use the second variant key to digitally sign at least part of the response, thereby to generate a digital signature; and (h) send the response and the digital signature to the third entity from which the request was received, such that the third entity can verify the at least part of the response using its base key.
Optionally the first entity is configured to send the first bit-pattern to the third entity that makes the request in (e), such that the third entity can:
(i) use the second base key and the bit-pattern received from the first entity to generate the second variant key; and (ii) use the second variant key generated in (i) to perform the verification.
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(b) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(c) use the first variant key to digitally sign at least part of at least the response, thereby to generate a digital signature; and (d) send the response and the digital signature to the third entity from which the request was received, such that the third entity can verify at least part of the response using its base key.
Optionally the first entity is configured to send the first bit-pattern the third entity that makes the request in (a), such that the third entity can:
(i) use the second base key and the bit-pattern received from the first entity to generate the second variant key; and (ii) use the second variant key generated in (i) to perform the verification.
Optionally the second and third entities have different permissions in relation to the operations they can perform on the resource data, the permissions being defined based which of the first and second base key and variant key combinations is used for the verification.
Optionally the first base and variant key combination provides a higher permission to perform an operation on the resource data than the second base key and variant key combination.
Optionally the second and third entities have different permissions in relation to the operations they can perform on the resource data, the permissions being defined based which of the first and second base key and variant key combinations is used for the verification.
Optionally the first base and variant key combination provides a higher permission to perform an operation on the resource data than the second base key and variant key combination.
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of a plurality of second entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the second entities having an associated bit-pattern and one of the first variant keys, the first variant key in each of second entities being based on the result of applying a one way function to the first base key and the associated bit-pattern of that second entity, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from one of the second entities;
(b) receive the bit-pattern associated with the entity from which the request was received;
(c) receive a digital signature from the entity from which the request was received, the digital signature having been generated by digitally signing at least part of the request using the variant key;
(d) generate the variant key of the entity from which the request sent, by applying the one way function to the first base key and the received bit pattern; and (e) verify the request by digitally signing at least part of the request using the variant key generated in (d) and comparing the produced signature against the signature received in (d).
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(f) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(g) receive a digital signature from the third entity from which the request was received, the digital signature having been generated by the third entity signing at least part of the request using the second variant key;
(h) verify the at least part of the request by digitally signing at least part of the request using the second variant key and comparing the produced signature against the signature received in (g).
Optionally the first entity is configured to send the first bit-pattern to the third entity that makes the request in (f), such that the third entity can:
(i) use the second base key and the bit-pattern received from the first entity to generate the second variant key; and (ii) use the second variant key generated in (i) to digitally sign at least part of the request; and (iii) send the request for receipt by the first entity in (a).
Optionally the first entity is configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(f) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(g) receive a digital signature from the third entity from which the request was received, the digital signature having been generated by the third entity signing at least part of the request using the second variant key;
(h) verify the at least part of the request by digitally signing at least part of the request using the second variant key and comparing the produced signature against the signature received in (g).
Optionally the second and third entities have different permissions in relation to the operations they can perform on the resource data, the permissions being defined based which of the first and second base key and variant key combinations is used for the verification.
Optionally the first base and variant key combination provides a higher permission to perform an operation on the resource data than the second base key and variant key combination.
Optionally the resource data represents a physical property.
Optionally the physical property is a remaining amount of a physical resource.
Optionally the resource is a consumable resource.
Optionally the resource entity is physically attached to a reservoir or magazine that holds the consumable resource.
Optionally the resource is a fluid.
Optionally the fluid is ink.
Optionally the operation includes a read, in which the resource data is read by the entity making the request.
Optionally the operation includes write, in which the resource data is modified by the entity making the request.
Optionally the operation includes decrementing, in which the resource is decremented by the entity making the request.
Optionally the one way function is a hash function.
Optionally the one way function is SHA1.
Optionally a second entity configured for use with the first entity including:
a first bit-pattern a non-volatile memory storing resource data, a first base key for use with at least a first variant key;
a second variant key for use with a second base key, the second variant key being the result of a one way function applied to: the second base key; and the first bit-pattern or a modified bit-pattern based on the first bit-pattern.
Optionally a second entity configured for use with the first entity configured to receive a request from any of a plurality of second entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the second entities having an associated bit-pattern and one of the first variant keys, the first variant key in each of second entities being based on the result of applying a one way function to the first base key and the associated bit-pattern of that second entity, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from one of the second entities;
(b) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(c) use the first base key to digitally sign at least part of the response, thereby to generate a digital signature;
and (d) send the response and the digital signature to the second entity from which the request was received, such that the second entity can verify the at least part of the response using its variant key.
Optionally a second entity configured for use with the first entity configured to receive a request from any of a plurality of second entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the second entities having an associated bit-pattern and one of the first variant keys, the first variant key in each of second entities being based on the result of applying a one way function to the first base key and the associated bit-pattern of that second entity, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from one of the second entities;
(b) receive the bit-pattern associated with the entity from which the request was received;
(c) receive a digital signature from the entity from which the request was received, the digital signature having been generated by digitally signing at least part of the request using the variant key;
(d) generate the variant key of the entity from which the request sent, by applying the one way function to the first base key and the received bit pattern; and (e) verify the request by digitally signing at least part of the request using the variant key generated in (d) and comparing the produced signature against the signature received in (d).
Optionally a third entity configured for use with the first entity configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(e) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(f) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(g) use the second variant key to digitally sign at least part of the response, thereby to generate a digital signature; and (h) send the response and the digital signature to the third entity from which the request was received, such that the third entity can verify the at least part of the response using its base key.
Optionally a third entity configured for use with the first entity configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(b) perform the at least one operation in the request, thereby to generate a response;
(c) use the first variant key to digitally sign at least part of at least the response, thereby to generate a digital signature; and (d) send the response and the digital signature to the third entity from which the request was received, such that the third entity can verify at least part of the response using its base key.
Optionally a third entity configured for use with the first entity configured to receive a request from any of one or more third entities, the request being indicative of at least one operation to be performed on the resource data, each of the one or more third entities having the second base key, the first entity being configured to:
(f) receive the request from the one of the third entities;
(g) receive a digital signature from the third entity from which the request was received, the digital signature having been generated by the third entity signing at least part of the request using the second variant key;
(h) verify the at least part of the request by digitally signing at least part of the request using the second variant key and comparing the produced signature against the signature received in (g).
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to authenticate a digital signature supplied by a second entity, wherein one of the entities includes a base key and the other of the entities includes a variant key and a bit-pattern, the variant key being based on the result of applying a one way function to the base key and the bit-pattern, the digital signature having been generated by the second entity using its key to digitally signing at least part of data to be authenticated, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the digital signature from the second entity;
(b) receive the data; and (c) authenticate the digital signature based on the received data and the first entity's key.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method of enabling or disabling a verification process of a first entity in response to a predetermined event, the first entity having at least one associated bit-pattern and at least one variant key, each of the variant keys having been generated by applying a one way function to: a base key; and one or more of the at least one bit-patterns, respectively; or one or more alternative bit patterns, each of the alternative bit-patterns being based on one or the at least one bit-patterns, the method including the method including:
(a) determining that the predetermined event has happened; and (b) enabling or disabling at least one of the first variant keys in response the predetermined event.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured for usein a system for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity, the system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key configured to be transported from the second entity to the first entity using the transport keys, the authentication key being usable to enable the authenticated communication by the first entity.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method of storing a bit-pattern in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing the bit-pattern at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory locations are different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method of storing at least one functionally identical code segment in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing a first of the at least one code segments in the memory at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory location is different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method for providing a sequence of nonces (R0, Rl, R2, ... ) commencing with a current seed of a sequence of seeds (x I, x2, x3,...), the method comprising:
(a) applying a one-way function to the current seed, thereby to generate a current nonce; (b) outputting the current nonce;
(c) using the current seed to generate a next seed in a sequence of seeds, the seed so generated becoming the current seed; and (c) repeating steps (a) to (c) as required to generate further nonces in the sequence of nonces.
Optionally there is provided a first entity configured to implement a method of storing multiple first bit-patterns in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising, for each of the first bit-patterns to be stored:
(a) applying a one way function to a third bit-pattern based on a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third bit-patterns used for the respective first bit-patterns are relatively unique compared to each other.
In a thirty sixth aspect the present invention provides a method of enabling or disabling a verification process of a first entity in response to a predetermined event, the first entity having at least one associated bit-pattern and at least one variant key, each of the variant keys having been generated by applying a one way function to: a base key; and one or more of the at least one bit-patterns, respectively; or one or more alternative bit patterns, each of the alternative bit-patterns being based on one or the at least one bit-patterns, the method including the method including:
(a) determining that the predetermined event has happened; and (b) enabling or disabling at least one of the first variant keys in response the predetermined event.
Optionally step (a) includes disabling at least one of the variant keys, such that the disabled at least one variant key can no longer be used to digitally sign information in that enti .
Optionally step (a) includes disabling at least one of the variant keys, such that the disabled at least one variant key can no longer be used to verify information signed by one or more respective base keys related to the disabled at least one variant key in that entity.
Optionally the step of disabling the at least one variant key includes modifying a status of a flag associated with that at least one variant key.
Optionally the step of disabling the at least one variant key includes deleting that at least one variant key.
Optionally the step of disabling the at least one variant key includes modifying that at least one variant key Optionally the event is a predetermined point in time being reached or passed.
Optionally the first entity includes a plurality of the variant keys, the plurality of variant keys being based on the result of a one way function applied to: a respective one of a corresponding plurality of base keys; and one of the at least one bit-patterns or one of the at least one alternative bit-patterns, the method including the steps of determining that a predetermined event related to one of the variant keys has happened; and enabling or disabling at least one of the plurality of variant keys with which the predetermined event is associated.
Optionally the plurality of base keys has a corresponding sequence of predetermined events associated with them, the method including the steps of:
(a) determining that one of the predetermined event has happened; and (b) enabling or disabling the variant key in the sequence corresponding to predetermined event that is determined to have happened.
Optionally the variant keys are disabled in the order of the sequence of predetermined events.
Optionally the sequence of events is chronological.
Optionally each of the events includes a time being reached.
Optionally the step of determining that one of the events has happened includes receiving a time from a trusted source.
Optionally the time is a date.
Optionally the date is determined with a resolution of a month.
Optionally the predetermined event includes detection of compromise of one or more of the keys, the method including disabling the one or more variant keys corresponding to the one or more keys that were compromised.
Optionally the predetermined event includes suspect compromise of one or more of the keys, the method including disabling the one or more variant keys corresponding to the one or more keys that were suspected of being compromised.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a method of manufacturing second entities for use in the verification process with the first entity of claim 1, each of the first entities including at least first and second variant key, the first variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to a first base key and a first bit-pattern, and the second variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to a second base key and a second bit-pattern, the method comprising the steps of:
manufacturing a plurality of second entities for use with the first entities, each of the second entities including at least the first base key; and upon the first variant key being disabled in response to one of the predetermined event, manufacturing a plurality of third entities for use with the first entities, each of the third entities including at least the second base key.
Optionally the first variant key is automatically disabled in response to a predetermined event.
Optionally the method further includes the step of causing the first variant key to be disabled.
Optionally the first variant key is disabled in response to a time being reached.
Optionally at least some of the first entities have one or more further variant keys, each of the respective further variant keys having been generated by applying a one way function to respective further base keys and bit-patterns, each of the variant keys being enabled or disabled in response to respective predetermined events, the method comprising the step of manufacturing a sequence of sets of second entities, each set of the second entities being manufactured such that the variant key corresponding to its base key is enabled for the verification process during the life of that set.
Optionally the predetermined events are selected such that the variant keys corresponding with the base keys of more than one of the sets are enabled at once.
Optionally there is provided a method using a first entity configured to authenticate a digital signature supplied by a second entity, wherein one of the entities includes a base key and the other of the entities includes a variant key and a bit-pattern, the variant key being based on the result of applying a one way function to the base key and the bit-pattern, the digital signature having been generated by the second entity using its key to digitally signing at least part of data to be authenticated, the first entity being configured to.
(a) receive the digital signature from the second entity;
(b) receive the data; and (c) authenticate the digital signature based on the received data and the first entity's key.
Optionally there is provided a method using a first entity including:
a first bit-pattern a non-volatile memory storing resource data, a first base key for use with at least a first variant key;
a second variant key for use with a second base key, the second variant key being the result of a one way function applied to: the second base key; and the first bit-pattern or a modified bit-pattern based on the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a method using a system for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity, the system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key configured to be transported from the second entity to the first entity using the transport keys, the authentication key being usable to enable the authenticated communication by the first entity.
Optionally there is provided a method including storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a method including storing a bit-pattern in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing the bit-pattern at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory locations are different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a method including storing at least one functionally identical code segment in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing a first of the at least one code segments in the memory at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory location is different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a method including providing a sequence of nonces (R0, RI, R2, ...) commencing with a current seed of a sequence of seeds (xl, x2, x3,...), the method comprising:
(a) applying a one-way function to the current seed, thereby to generate a current nonce; (b) outputting the current nonce;
(c) using the current seed to generate a next seed in a sequence of seeds, the seed so generated becoming the current seed; and (c) repeating steps (a) to (c) as required to generate further nonces in the sequence of ponces.
Optionally there is provided a method including storing multiple first bit-patterns in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising, for each of the first bit-patterns to be stored:
(a) applying a one way function to a third bit-pattern based on a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third bit-patterns used for the respective first bit-patterns are relatively unique compared to each other.
In a thirty seventh aspect the present invention provides a system for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity, the system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key configured to be transported from the second entity to the first entity using the transport keys, the authentication key being usable to enable the authenticated communication by the first entity.
Optionally the transport keys include:
a first transport key in the first entity; and a second transport key in the second entity.
Optionally the first and second transport keys are the same.
Optionally the second transport key is a base key and the first transport key is a variant key, the variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to the base key and a first bit-pattern.
Optionally the first bit-pattern is stored in the first entity.
Optionally each of the first and second transport keys is a second bit-pattern stored in the first and second entities during manufacture of the system or its components.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally the authentication key enables authenticated communication between the first and second entities.
Optionally the authentication key provides the first entity with permission to request performance of at least one operation on at least one value in the second entity.
Optionally the authentication key enables authenticated communication between the first entity and one or more entities other than the second entity.
Optionally the authentication key is a variant key.
Optionally the one or more entities include the base key corresponding to the authentication key.
Optionally the variant key in each system is relatively unique compared to the variant keys in the other systems.
Optionally the authentication key is a third bit-pattern that was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the third bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a system for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity, the system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share additional transport keys;
the second entity and each of the at least one other entities share transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key configured to be transported from the second entity to the first entity using the first transport keys and to each of the at least one other entities using the respective additional shared transport keys, such that the authentication keys, once transported to the first and at least one other entities, enable verified communication therebetween.
Optinally each pair of transport keys is different from the other pairs of transport keys.
Optionally the authentication key is the first transport key.
Optionally the authentication key is the additional transport key for one of the at least one other entities.
Optionally the authentication key is not the same as any of the transport keys.
Optionally the authentication key is a variant key, the variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to a base key and a first bit pattern Optionally the first transport key is a bit pattern stored in the first and second entities during manufacture of the system or its components.
Optionally the bit-pattern was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a method of manufacturing a system having at least first and second entities, method comprising the steps of providing the first and second entities with transport keys; and providing the second entity with at least one authentication key;
the system being configured to enable transport of the at least one authentication key from the second entity to the first entity using the transport keys, the authentication key being usable to enable the authenticated communication by the first entity.
Optionally the transport keys include:
a first transport key in the first entity; and a second transport key in the second entity.
Optionally the first and second transport keys are the same.
Optionally the second transport key is a base key and the first transport key is a variant key, the variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to the base key and a first bit-pattern.
Optionally the first bit-pattern is stored in the first entity.
Optionally each of the first and second transport keys is a second bit-pattern stored in the first and second entities during manufacture of the system or its components.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally the authentication key enables authenticated communication between the first and second entities.
Optionally the authentication key enables authenticated communication between the first entity and one or more entities other than the second entity.
Optionally the authentication key is a third bit-pattern that was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the third bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a method for enabling authenticated communication between a first entity and at least one other entity in a system including a second entity, wherein:
the first entity and the second entity share first transport keys;
the second entity and each of the at least one other entities share additional transport keys; and the second entity includes at least one authentication key;
the method including the steps of.
transporting the authentication key from the second entity to the first entity using the first transport keys, and to each of the at least one other entities using the respective shared additional transport keys, such that the authentication keys, once transported to the first and at least one other entities, enable verified communication therebetween.
Optionally each pair of transport keys is different from the other pairs of transport keys.
Optionally the authentication key is the first transport key.
Optionally the authentication key is one of the additional transport keys.
Optionally the authentication key is not the same as any of the transport keys.
Optionally the authentication key is a variant key, the variant key having been generated by applying a one way function to a base key and a first bit-pattern.
Optionally the first transport key is a bit-pattern stored in the first and second entities during manufacture of the system or its components.
Optionally bit-pattern was determined randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the bit-pattern was generated using a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally there is provided a method including a first entity configured to authenticate a digital signature supplied by a second entity, wherein one of the entities includes a base key and the other of the entities includes a variant key and a bit-pattern, the variant key being based on the result of applying a one way function to the base key and the bit-pattern, the digital signature having been generated by the second entity using its key to digitally signing at least part of data to be authenticated, the first entity being configured to:
(a) receive the digital signature from the second entity;
(b) receive the data; and (c) authenticate the digital signature based on the received data and the first entity's key.
Optionally there is provided a system including a first entity including:
a first bit-pattern a non-volatile memory storing resource data, a first base key for use with at least a first variant key;
a second variant key for use with a second base key, the second variant key being the result of a one way function applied to: the second base key; and the first bit-pattern or a modified bit-pattern based on the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of enabling or disabling a verification process of a first entity in response to a predetermined event, the first entity having at least one associated bit-pattern and at least one variant key, each of the variant keys having been generated by applying a one way function to: a base key; and one or more of the at least one bit-patterns, respectively; or one or more alternative bit patterns, each of the alternative bit-patterns being based on one or the at least one bit-patterns, the method including the method including:
(a) determining that the predetermined event has happened; and (b) enabling or disabling at least one of the first variant keys in response the predetermined event.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of storing a bit-pattern in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing the bit-pattern at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory locations are different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of storing at least one functionally identical code segment in each of a plurality of devices, each of the devices having a memory, the method comprising, for each device:
(a) determining a first memory location; and (b) storing a first of the at least one code segments in the memory at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory location is different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of providing a sequence of nonces (R0, Rl, R2, ...) commencing with a current seed of a sequence of seeds (xl, x2, x3,...), the method comprising:
(a) applying a one-way function to the current seed, thereby to generate a current nonce; (b) outputting the current nonce;
(c) using the current seed to generate a next seed in a sequence of seeds, the seed so generated becoming the current seed; and (c) repeating steps (a) to (c) as required to generate further nonces in the sequence of nonces.
Optionally there is provided a system configured to implement a method of storing multiple first bit-patterns in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising, for each of the first bit-patterns to be stored:
(a) applying a one way function to a third bit-pattern based on a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third bit-patterns used for the respective first bit-patterns are relatively unique compared to each other.
In a thirty eighth aspect the present invention provides a method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally the one way function is more cryptographically secure than the second function.
Optionally the second function is a logical function.
Optionally the logical function is an XOR function.
Optionally the one way function is a hash function.
Optionally the one way function is SHA1.
Optionally the first bit-pattern is a key.
Optionally the method further includes the step of storing one or more code segments in the memory, the code segments being configured to run on a processor of the device, thereby enabling the device to:
apply the one way function to the second bit-pattern, thereby to generate the first result;
apply a third function to the first result and the second result, thereby to generate the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third function is the inverse of the second function.
Optionally the third function and the second function are the same.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was generated randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the method further includes the step, performed prior to step (a), of determining the second bit-pattern.
Optionally determining the second bit-pattern includes generating the second bit-pattern randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally determining the second bit-pattern includes generating the second bit-pattern based on a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally determining the second bit-pattern includes selecting the second-bit pattern from an existing list or sequence of second bit-patterns.
In a further aspect the present invention provides method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of each of a plurality of devices, the method comprising, for each of the devices:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the non-volatile memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern;
wherein the second bit-patterns of the respective devices are relatively unique with respect to each other.
Optionally the one way function is more cryptographically secure than the second function.
Optionally the second function is a logical function.
Optionally the logical function is an XOR function.
Optionally the one way function is a hash function.
Optionally the one way function is SHAT.
Optionally the first bit-pattern is a key.
Optionally step (c) comprises, for each device:
(d) determining a first memory location; and (e) storing the second result at the first memory location;
wherein the first memory locations are different in at least a plurality of the respective devices.
Optionally step (d) includes randomly selecting the first memory location.
Optionally step (a) includes selecting the first memory location based on a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally step (a) includes selecting the first memory location from an existing list or sequence of memory locations.
Optionally the method further includes the step of storing one or more code segments in the device, the code segments being configured to run on a processor of the device, thereby enabling the device to:
apply the one way function to the second bit-pattern, thereby to generate the first result; and apply a third function to the first result and the second result, thereby to generate the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third function is the inverse of the second function.
Optionally the third function and the second function are the same.
Optionally the second bit-patterns have characteristics associated with random numbers.
Optionally the second bit-pattern was generated randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally the method further includes the step, performed prior to step (a), of determining the second bit-pattern.
Optionally determining the second bit-pattern includes generating the second bit-pattern randomly or pseudo-randomly.
Optionally determining the second bit-pattern includes generating the second bit-pattern based on a stochastic process or mechanism.
Optionally there is provided a device manufactured in accordance with the method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of a device, the method comprising:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and (c) storing the second result in the memory, thereby indirectly storing the first bit-pattern.
Optionally there is provided a device manufactured in accordance with the method including the step of storing one or more code segments in the memory, the code segments being configured to run on a processor of the device, thereby enabling the device to:
apply the one way function to the second bit-pattern, thereby to generate the first result;
apply a third function to the first result and the second result, thereby to generate the first bit-pattern;
wherein the third function is the inverse of the second function.
Optionally there is provided a device manufactured in accordance with the method of storing a first bit-pattern in non-volatile memory of each of a plurality of devices, the method comprising, for each of the devices:
(a) applying a one way function to a second bit-pattern associated with the device, thereby to generate a first result;
(b) applying a second function to the first result and the first bit-pattern, thereby to generate a second result;
and
Claims (7)
1. A print engine comprising:
a carrier;
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being mounted parallel to each other end to end on the carrier on either side of a join region, and the first printhead module being longer than the second printhead module; and at least first and second printer controllers mounted on the carrier and being configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module, and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
a carrier;
a printhead comprising first and second elongate printhead modules, the printhead modules being mounted parallel to each other end to end on the carrier on either side of a join region, and the first printhead module being longer than the second printhead module; and at least first and second printer controllers mounted on the carrier and being configured to receive print data and process the print data to output dot data to the printhead, wherein the first printer controller outputs dot data to both the first printhead module and the second printhead module, and the second printer controller outputs dot data only to the second printhead module.
2. A print engine according to claim 1, wherein the printhead modules are configured such that no dot data passes between them.
3. A print engine according to claim 2, further comprising at least one synchronization means between the first and second printer controllers for synchronizing the supply of dot by the printer controllers.
4. A print engine according to claim 2, wherein each of the printer controllers is configurable to supply the dot data to printhead modules of a plurality of different lengths.
5. A printer according to claim 1, wherein the first and second printer controllers are connected to a common input of the printhead.
6. A printer according to claim 1, wherein the dot data output by the second printer controller includes dot data generated by the second printer controller and dot data generated by the first printer controller.
7. A printer according to claim 1, wherein each print head module is configured for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement by a nozzle of a respective print head module caused by erroneous rotational displacement of the printhead module relative to a carrier, each print head module being configured to:
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
9. A printer according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
access a correction factor associated with the at least one printhead module;
determine an order in which at least some of the dot data is supplied to at least one of the at least one printhead modules, the order being determined at least partly on the basis of the correction factor, thereby to at least partially compensate for the rotational displacement; and supply the dot data to the printhead module.
9. A printer according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of thermal sensors, each of the thermal sensors being configured to respond to a temperature at or adjacent at least one of the nozzles, the printer being configured to modify operation of at least some of the nozzles in response to the temperature rising above a first threshold.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2716810A CA2716810A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002639307A CA2639307A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement |
| CA2716810A CA2716810A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement |
Related Parent Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002639307A Division CA2639307A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2716810A1 true CA2716810A1 (en) | 2005-12-22 |
Family
ID=43033159
Family Applications (5)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2716065A Abandoned CA2716065A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | Method for at least partially compensating for erros in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement |
| CA2716778A Abandoned CA2716778A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | A printer comprising two uneven printhead modules |
| CA2716853A Abandoned CA2716853A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement |
| CA002639307A Abandoned CA2639307A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement |
| CA2716810A Withdrawn CA2716810A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement |
Family Applications Before (4)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2716065A Abandoned CA2716065A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | Method for at least partially compensating for erros in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement |
| CA2716778A Abandoned CA2716778A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | A printer comprising two uneven printhead modules |
| CA2716853A Abandoned CA2716853A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement |
| CA002639307A Abandoned CA2639307A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2004-05-27 | Method for at least partially compensating for errors in ink dot placement due to erroneous rotational displacement |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (5) | CA2716065A1 (en) |
-
2004
- 2004-05-27 CA CA2716065A patent/CA2716065A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2004-05-27 CA CA2716778A patent/CA2716778A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2004-05-27 CA CA2716853A patent/CA2716853A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2004-05-27 CA CA002639307A patent/CA2639307A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2004-05-27 CA CA2716810A patent/CA2716810A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2639307A1 (en) | 2005-12-22 |
| CA2716853A1 (en) | 2005-12-22 |
| CA2716778A1 (en) | 2005-12-22 |
| CA2716065A1 (en) | 2005-12-22 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| AZWI | Withdrawn application |
Effective date: 20130213 |