Classifications

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

Definitions

• CAFPCT CACPCT CADPCT CAEPCT
• InkJet printers have a series of nozzles from which individual ink droplets are ejected to deposit on print media to form desired printed images.
• the nozzles are incorporated in various types of printheads and their proper functioning is critical to the creation of quality images. Thus, any partial or total blockage of even a single nozzle may have a significant impact on a printed image, particularly in the case of a pagewidth printer.
• the nozzles are prone to blockage due to their exposure to ever-present paper dust and other particulate matter and due to the tendency of ink to dry in the nozzles during, often very short, idle periods.
• the ink Prior to ejection, the ink forms a meniscus at the nozzle opening. Exposure to air (frequently warm) evaporates the ink solvent to leave a solid deposit that can block the nozzle.
• Capping involves the covering of idle nozzles to preclude exposure of ink to drying air.
• Purging is normally effected by evacuating a capping chamber, thereby sucking deposits from the printhead that block or have the potential to block the nozzles.
• Wiping is performed in conjunction with the capping and/or purging functions and involves gently sweeping a membrane across the face of the printhead.
• a printer wherein: the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head; the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet- like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
• the capping mechanism has: a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a capping second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head; and the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
• the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in a direction normal to the direction of transport of print media past the print head.
• the capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
• the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head.
• the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the purging means includes a suction device that is arranged to suck purged material from the nozzle environment of the print head.
• the present invention provides a printer comprising: (a) a pagewidth print head assembly having- (i) two offset pagewidth print heads and
• the print heads are orientated in mutually opposite directions and are arranged to deliver ink onto opposite faces of print media as it is transported between the print heads
• the capping mechanism further has: a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a direction normal to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
• a printer wherein the capping mechanism has: a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the print head.
• the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the present invention provides a printer comprising:
• the capping member comprises: a) an elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
• a printer wherein: the capping member is located in the non-capping first position adjacent the print head; the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• a printer wherein the capping mechanism has: a carrier positioned adjacent the print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the capping/purging mechanism further has: a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a lateral direction relative to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
• the capping/purging mechanism has: a carrier positioned adjacent the print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads;
• the capping member is located adjacent the print heads and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads;
• the first actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from the printing first position to a spaced-apart second position; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.
• the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head; the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
• the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet- like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
• the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head; and the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
• the capping member comprises: a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the Hp portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
• a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping/purging member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.
• a printer comprising:
• each said capping/purging member has a body portion, a lip portion formed from an elastomeric material, a capping cavity surrounded by the lip portion, a purging chamber also surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
• each said capping/purging member is connected to a suction device.
• the purging chamber is connected to the suction device by a way of an extractor tube.
• the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; the capping/purging member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head; the capping/purging mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping/purging member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping/purging member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping/purging member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the capping/purging member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping/purging member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head; and the capping/purging mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
• the present invention provides a printer comprising:
• a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret (ii) a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, (iii) a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, (iv) a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and
• the capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
• the purging chamber comprises a body portion, a lip portion formed from an elastomeric material and a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
• the capping/purging mechanism has: at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
• the capping/purging mechanism has: a capping member associated with the at least one print head, the capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head and being located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head, purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping/purging mechanism has: a capping member associated with the print head, the capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and being located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head, purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• a printer wherein the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
• the capping/purging mechanism has: a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
• a printer comprising:
• the purging chamber is located interiorly of the turret.
• the capping mechanism has: at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
• a printer wherein the capping mechanism has: a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.
• the capping member comprises: a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
• the carrier is positioned in confronting relationship to the print head and is spaced from the print head to form a lower margin of a passage for print media that, in use, is transported past the print head
• the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping mechanism has: a capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the capping mechanism has: at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.
• a printer wherein the capping mechanism has: a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.
• the capping mechanism has: a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
• the capping member comprises: a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
• a capping mechanism associated with the print heads and comprising- i) a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print heads, and ii) an actuating mechanism arranged to position the capping member between the two print heads and in nozzle capping engagement with the print heads.
• the capping member comprises a single layer sheet-like material.
• the capping member comprises a multi-layer sheet-like material.
• a printer wherein the capping mechanism has: a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
• the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from but confronting the print head; and the capping mechanism further has a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member to effect its linear transitioning from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head; the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• a printer wherein the capping mechanism has: a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
• the flexible sheet-like material is provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head; and the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
• the capping member is formed from a closed cell thermoplastics material.
• the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophilic properties.
• the present invention provides a capping member for a pagewidth print head assembly having-
• a capping member for incorporation in a capping/purging mecham ' sm of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein: the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and is adapted to be located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head, and the capping/purging mechanism has: purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism, the capping member being adapted to be transitioned by the actuating mechanism from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• a capping member for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein: the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads, the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and is adapted to be associated with one of the print heads and to be moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head, and the capping mechanism has an actuating mechanism associated with the capping member, the capping member being adapted to be transitioned by the actuating mechanism from its first position to its second position.
• a capping member for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein: the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head, the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and is adapted to be located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head, and the capping mechanism has an actuating mechanism, the capping member being adapted to undergo arcuate transitioning by the actuating mechanism from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
• the present invention provides a capping mechanism for a pagewidth print head assembly having- a) at least one pagewidth print head and b) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and the capping mechanism comprising- i) at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and ii) actuating means arranged to effect linear relative transitioning of the at least one capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which nozzle capping engagement is effected between the at least one capping member and the at least one print head.
• the capping member comprises a body portion formed from a rigid material and a capping portion having a) an integrally formed elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles collectively.
• a chamber is located within the capping member and is connected in fluid passage communication with the cavity and wherein the chamber is arranged to be connected to a suction device whereby material may be sucked from the nozzle environment of the print head.
• the second actuating mechanism is arranged to impart linear movement to the print head.
• the second actuating mechanism is arranged to impart arcuate movement to the print head.
• the capping member is positioned in confronting relationship with the print head and wherein the actuating mechanism is arranged to move the capping member in a direction normal to the print head when effecting linear transitioning of the capping member from the first to the second position.
• each of the capping members comprises conjoined capping member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
• the further actuating mechanisms are arranged to impart arcuate movement to the print heads.
• the capping members are positioned in confronting relationship with the respective print heads when the print heads are in the second position and wherein the actuating mechanisms are arranged to move the respective capping members in directions normal to the associated print heads when effecting linear transitioning of the capping members from the first to the second position.
• the capping members are positioned laterally with respect with the respective print heads when the print heads are in the second position and wherein the actuating mechanisms are arranged to move the respective capping members in a lateral direction when effecting linear transitioning of the capping members from the first to the second position.
• a capping mechanism for a pagewidth print head assembly having- a) two offset pagewidth print heads and b) a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads, the capping mechanism comprising- i) a capping member associated with each of the print heads and having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads, and ii) actuating mechanisms arranged to effect linear relative transitioning of each of the associated capping members and print heads to a position at which the capping members is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print heads.
• the actuating mechanisms are arranged to effect linear transitioning of each of the capping members from a non-capping first position to a second position at which each said capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head.
• the present invention provides a a capping mechanism for a printhead having a plurality of nozzles arranged to deliver ink onto print media which, in use, is transported past the printhead, the capping mechanism comprising actuating means arranged to move the printhead in an arcuate direction away from a transport plane of the print media, from a printing first position to a capping second position, and a capping member which is arranged to engage in nozzle capping engagement with the printhead when the printhead is in the second position.
• a printer comprising a) at least one printhead having a plurality of nozzles arranged to deliver ink onto print media which, in use, is transported past the printhead, and b) a capping mechanism having actuating means arranged to move the printhead in an arcuate direction away from a transport plane of the print media, from a printing first position to a capping second position, and a capping member which is arranged to engage in nozzle capping engagement with the printhead when the printhead is in the second position.
• a capping mechanism for a pagewidth printhead assembly having- a) at least one pagewidth printhead and b) a plurality of nozzles located along the printhead and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the printhead; the capping mechanism comprising- i) at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one printhead, and ii) actuating means arranged to move the at least one printhead in an arcuate direction away from the transport plane of the print media, from a printing first position to a second position at which the at least one capping member is engaged in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one printhead.
• the at least one capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
• the at least one capping member comprises conjoined capping member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the printhead.
• the at least one capping member comprises a body portion formed from a rigid material and a capping portion having a) an integrally formed elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles collectively of the associated printhead.
• the at least one capping member is arranged to be connected to a suction device whereby material may be sucked from the nozzle environment of the associated printhead.
• a purging chamber is located within the at least one capping member and is arranged to be connected to a suction device whereby material may be sucked from the nozzle environment of the printhead.
• a further actuating mechanism is provided to effect movement of the at least one capping member from a non-capping position to the second position.
• the further actuating mechanism is arranged to impart linear movement to the at least one capping member.
• the at least one capping member is positioned adjacent to and laterally with respect to the at least one printhead, and wherein the further actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one capping member in a lateral direction to the second position.
• the further actuating mechanism is arranged to impart linear movement to each of the capping members.
• each of the capping members is positioned adjacent to and laterally with respect to an associated one of the printheads, and wherein the further actuating mechanism is arranged to move each of the capping members in a lateral direction to the second position.
• the at least one capping member comprises conjoined capping member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the printhead.
• the means arranged to move the at least one printhead and/or the at least one capping member comprises a first actuating means arranged to move the at least one printhead in an arcuate direction away from the plane of print media feed through the printhead assembly and to the position of nozzle capping engagement.
• the second actuating means is arranged to move the at least one capping member to a further position at which the purging chamber is arranged to receive material that is purged from the at least one printhead.
• the means arranged to move the at least one printhead and/or the at least one capping member comprises an actuating means arranged to move the at least one capping member and the at least one purging chamber in a linear direction to the position of nozzle capping engagement.
• the purging chamber is connectible to a suction device.
• a capping/purging mechanism for a pagewidth printhead assembly having- a) two confronting pagewidth printheads, and b) a plurality of nozzles located along the printhead and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the printheads; and the capping/purging mechanism comprising- i) a capping member associated with each of the printheads and having a length corresponding substantially to that of the printheads, ii) means arranged to move the printheads and the capping members to positions at which the capping members are located in nozzle capping engagement with the printheads, and iii) a purging chamber associated with each of the capping members and arranged to receive material that is purged from the at least one printhead.
• the means arranged to move the printheads and the capping members comprise actuating means arranged to move the capping members and the printheads in arcuate directions to the positions of nozzle capping engagement.
• the present invention provides a capping mechanism for a pagewidth printhead assembly having- a) at least one pagewidth printhead and b) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one printhead and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the printhead;
• the capping mechanism comprising- i) a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one printhead, and ii) means arranged to move the capping member and/or the at least one printhead to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one printhead.
• a capping mechanism for a pagewidth printhead assembly having- a) at least one pagewidth printhead and b) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one printhead and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the printhead; the capping mechanism comprising- i) a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one printhead, and ⁇ ) means arranged to position the capping member in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one printhead.
• the capping member comprises a multi-layer sheet-like material.
• Optionally means are provided for delivering a fluid to a region between the multiple layers of the capping member.
• the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophobic properties.
• the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophobic properties.
• the capping member is formed from a closed cell thermoplastics material.
• a printer comprising: a) a pagewidth printhead assembly having- (i) at least one pagewidth printhead and
• a printer comprising: a) a pagewidth printhead assembly having- (i) at least one pagewidth printhead and (ii) a plurality nozzles located along the at least one printhead and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the printhead, and b) a capping mechanism having-
• a method of capping a pagewidth printhead assembly having- a) at least one pagewidth printhead and b) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one printhead and arranged in use to deliver ink onto the print media as it is transported past the at least one printhead; the method comprising positioning a capping member having a flexible sheet-like form in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one printhead.
• the capping mechanism is configured for operative engagement with a capping mechanism protector which comprises a covering member arranged to engage with the capping mechanism during intervals when the capping mechanism is not engaged with the print head.
• a capping mechanism wherein: a) the capping mechanism is configured for operative engagement with a capping mechanism protector which comprises a covering member arranged to engage with the capping mechanism during intervals when the capping mechanism is not engaged with the print head, and b) the capping mechanism, the capping mechanism protector and the printhead are arranged to operate in an inkjet printer.
• At least one abutment is located adjacent the print head and is operable to effect pivoting of the capping member when the carrier approaches the first position, whereby the capping member is moved away from the print media feed path.
• the capping mechanism comprises: a) a capping member that is configured to contact the print head in nozzle capping engagement, b) a carrier supporting the capping member, and c) an actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the carrier back and forth between a first position at which the capping member is located remotely with respect to the print head and a second position at which the capping member is located in contact with the print head; the capping member being pivotally mounted to the carrier and being arranged to pivot relative to the carrier during back and forth transitional movement of the carrier between a transition position and the second position, where the transition position is located intermediate the first and second
• Figure 35 shows a perspective view of a single nozzle in the activation state shown in Figure 34
• Figure 36 shows in perspective a sectioned view of the nozzle of Figure 13
• Figure 37 shows a sectional elevation view of the nozzle of Figure 13
• each of the printheads 51 may comprise substantially more than four modules 55 and/or that substantially more than four printhead chips 57 may be mounted to each module.
• printhead chip 57 An illustrative embodiment of one printhead chip 57 is described in more detail, with reference to Figures 9 to 18, toward the end of this drawing-related description; as is an illustrative embodiment of a print engine controller for the printheads 51.
• the print engine controller is later described with reference to Figures 19 to 21.
• the filtered air will in use be delivered at a pressure slightly above atmospheric from a pressurised source (not shown) that is integrated in the printer.
• Two capping members 82 are located adjacent the printheads and are inclined at an angle of approximately 40 degrees to the direction of print media feed.
• the printheads 51 When capping is required, for example between successive print runs, the printheads 51 are turned in an arcuate direction through 40 degrees to the position shown in Figure 9B. Thereafter, the capping members 82 are moved rectilinearly, in the lateral direction of arrows 83, to the positions shown in Figure 9C where the capping members are located in nozzle capping engagement with the printhead chips 57 on each of the printheads 51.
• Actuating mechanisms 84 and 85 are employed for effecting the described movements of the printheads 51 and capping members 82. These mechanisms may comprise geared motor drives, pneumatic actuators or other such mechanisms as are known in the art for effecting movement of relatively small mechanical devices.
• any print media that is positioned in the printer is moved in the direction of arrow 88 by rollers 89 and the upper printhead 51 is raised (relative to the lower printhead) by an actuating mechanism 87, as indicated in Figure 1OB.
• the capping member 82 is then moved rectilinearly by an actuating mechanism 90 to the position shown in Figure 1OC, where it is interposed between the printheads 51 and located in nozzle capping engagement with the printhead chips 57 on both of the printheads. Positive engagement between the capping member 82 and the two printheads is effected by lowering the upper printhead 51 onto the capping member 82.
• the actuating mechanisms 87 and 90 may comprise geared motor drives, pneumatic actuators or other such mechanisms as are known in the art for effecting movement of relatively small mechanical devices.
• the capping member 82 is moved in a direction normal to the printhead 51, thereby avoiding any potential for rubbing between the capping member and the printing zone of the printhead.
• a capping member 82 is initially located below the plane of print media feed 81 through the printer and, following the extraction of any print media in the direction indicated by arrow 80, the capping member is moved rectilinearly upward by an actuating mechanism 83 to the position shown in Figure 13B where it is located in nozzle capping engagement with the printhead chips 57 on the printhead 51.
• the actuating mechanism 83 may comprise a geared motor drive, pneumatic actuator or other such mechanism as is known in the art for effecting movement of relatively small mechanical devices.
• capping members 82 are initially located in vertical spaced relationship to the respective printheads 51 and, thus, are located one at each side of the plane 81 of print media feed through the printer. Following the extraction of any print media from between the printheads 51 , the capping members are moved rectilinearly in mutually opposite vertical directions by actuating mechanisms 80, to the positions shown in Figure 14B, where they are located in nozzle capping engagement with the printhead chips 57 on the respective printheads 51.
• a capping member 82 is initially located below the plane of print media feed 81 through the printer and, following the extraction of any print media in the direction indicated by arrow 80, the capping member is moved arcuately upwardly by an actuating mechanism 83 to the position shown in Figure 15B where it is located in nozzle capping engagement with the printhead chips 57 on the printhead 51.
• the capping member 82 has a configuration as shown in Figure 8 described in detail above.
• Figures 16A and B illustrate a capping/purging mechanism that is appropriate to a printer having a single (simplex) printing head 51.
• a capping member 82 is initially located below the plane 81 of print media feed through the printer and, following the extraction of any print media in the direction indicated by arrow 80, the capping member is moved arcuately in an upward by an actuating mechanism 83 to the position shown in Figure 16B where it is located in nozzle capping engagement with the printhead chips 57 on the printhead 51.
• the capping member 82 doubles as a purging member and it incorporates a chamber 84 that communicates by way of a port 85 with a cavity 86.
• An extractor tube 87 extends into the chamber 84 and is connected to a suction pump or other such device 88 within the printer for sucking purged material from the nozzle environment of the printhead 51.
• Each of the capping members 82 has a configuration as shown in Figure 8 described in detail above.
• the printheads 51 are turned in an arcuate first direction through 40 degrees to the position shown in Figure 17B. Thereafter, the capping members 82 are turned in an arcuate second direction, that is opposite to that of the first direction, to the positions shown in Figure 17C where the capping members are located in nozzle capping engagement with the printhead chips 57 on each of the printheads 51.
• Each of the capping members 82 has a configuration as shown in Figure 8 described in detail above.
• the printheads 51 When capping is required, for example between successive print runs, the printheads 51 are turned in an arcuate first direction from a non-capping first position to a second position as shown in Figure 18B.
• Actuating mechanisms 83 and 84 are employed for effecting the described movements of the printheads 51 and the capping/purging members 82.
• These actuating mechanisms may comprise geared motor drives, pneumatic actuators or other such mechanisms as are known in the art for effecting movement of relatively small mechanical devices.
• the capping/purging member 82 incorporates a purging chamber 86 (see Figure 18D) that is arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzles in the printing head chips 57.
• An extractor tube 87 extends into the chamber 86 and is connected to a suction pump or other such device 88 within the printer 52 for sucking material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the printhead.
• each of the capping/purging members 82 has a configuration as shown in Figure 19.
• each of the capping/purging members 82 comprises a body portion 100 and, moulded onto or otherwise secured to the body portion, a capping portion having an integrally formed lip portion 101 which surrounds the cavity 85 and the purging chamber 86.
• the body portion 100 is formed from a metal such as aluminium or from a rigid plastics material, and the capping portion (including the lip portion 101) is formed from an elastomeric material.
• the lip portion 101 is peripherally configured to surround the printhead chips 57 collectively and the adjacent region of the printing zone of each or the printheads 51 during both the capping and the purging operations.
• Each of the capping/purging members 82 may be formed as a one-piece member with a length that corresponds with that of a printhead to be capped or it may be formed from conjoined shorter-length portions that have an aggregate length corresponding to that of the printhead.
• the capping member/purging chamber 92/93 may be formed as a one-piece member with a length that corresponds with that of the printhead 51 to be capped or it may be formed from conjoined shorter-length portions that have an aggregate length corresponding to that of the printhead.
• the mechanism that is illustrated in Figures 22A and B comprises a rotatable turret 90 that is positioned vertically below a single printhead 51, although it will be understood that two turrets might be employed in association with two arcuately moveable printheads if a duplex printhead assembly were to be employed.
• the turret 90 has an axially extending body portion 91, a longitudinally extending flat land portion 92 and a longitudinally extending eccentric land portion 93.
• the flat land portion 92 of the turret effectively forms a platen and, when the turret is in the position shown in Figure 22 A, the land 92 constitutes the lower margin of a passageway through which print media is fed during a printing operation.
• the platen as defined by the land 92 provides support for normal print media feed through the printer.
• the turret When purging of the nozzles is to be effected, the turret is rotated to the position shown in Figure 22A, such that the port 96 is located below the nozzles, and purged material is directed into the purging chamber 95 by way of the port 96. Purged material be sucked out of the purging chamber 95 by way of an extractor tube 97 that is connected to a suction device 98, such as a pump, in the printer.
• a suction device 98 such as a pump
• the lip portion 101 is peripherally configured to surround the printhead chips 57 collectively and the adjacent region of the printing zone of each or the printheads 51.
• the cavity 102 may be provided or be lined with a hydrophobic material or a hydrophilic material, depending upon the function of the capping member and whether fluid that is purged from the printhead is to be expelled from or retained in the capping member.
• the capping member 93 When purging of the nozzles is to be effected, the capping member 93 is pivoted to the position shown in Figure 24B and purged material is directed into the purging chamber 92. The purged material will be sucked out of the purging chamber 92 by way of an extractor tube 96 that is connected to a suction device 95, such as a pump, in the printer. In an alternative arrangement (not shown) purged material may be directed through apertures in the capping member when the capping member 93 is located in the second position shown in Figures 24A and C.
• FIGS 26A and B diagrammatically illustrate duplex printheads 51 but it will be understood that one of the printheads might be replaced with a platen that would define a lower margin of a passage for print media and act as a support for the capping member that is to be described
• the capping member is dimensioned to cover the confronting surfaces of the printheads 51 and, thus, it has a depth (in the direction of arrow 82) approximately equal to that of the printhead 51 and a width (in the direction into the page) which is approximately equal to the length of the printheads.
• the capping member 83 may be formed from various types of materials that have a sheet-like form and are flexible.
• the sheet-like form is required in order that the capping member might be inserted into the relatively narrow gap 80 that will normally be present between the printheads 51, and flexibility is required to enable the creation of an effective capping seal between the capping member and the printheads.
• the material from which the capping member is formed will normally exhibit a degree of compressibility in order that a positive reactive force might be established and maintained between the printheads and the capping member during the capping operation.
• the capping member 83 might be formed from layered sheets, so that a fluid (ie, a liquid or a gas) might be directed into the region between the layers to change the effective thickness of the capping member.
• a fluid delivery mechanism 86 is shown in Figure 26B for this purpose.
• FIGS 27A and B diagrammatically illustrate a simplex printhead arrangement but it will be understood that the invention also applies to a duplex arrangement, in which case the illustrated platen would be replaced with a lower printhead.
• FIGS 27A and B The mechanism that is illustrated in Figures 27A and B is suitable for use in conjunction with a wide format printer having a single printhead 51.
• a platen 86 and the single printhead 51 define a gap 81 through which the print media is fed, in the direction of arrow 82.
• the spent capping member 83 is separated from the roll 84 by a cutter mechanism 86 and the capping member is drawn from the gap 81 in the direction opposite to that indicated by arrow 82.
• Feeding of the capping member 83 into and out from the gap 81 may be effected manually or mechanically, depending upon the size and required operating speed of the printer of which the capping mechanism forms a part.
• the cutter mechanism 86 may comprise one that typically is used to effect the cutting of print media that is fed through the printer from a roll of the print media.
• the material from which the capping member 83 is formed will be dependent upon whether simple capping is required or whether the capping member is required also to absorb and carry purged ink and other material away from the printing zone of the printhead.
• the material might be selected for hydrophobic properties, and when required to assist in purging functions the material might be selected for hydrophilic properties.
• the former material might comprise a closed cell thermoplastics material and the latter material might comprise and open cell silicone material.
• the material from which the capping member is formed will normally exhibit a degree of compressibility in order that a positive reactive force might be established and maintained between the printheads and the capping member during the capping operation.
• the capping member 83 might be formed from layered sheets, so that a fluid (ie, a liquid or a gas) might be directed into the region between the layers to change the effective thickness of the capping member.
• Figures 28A and B diagrammatically illustrate a simplex printhead arrangement but it will be understood that the invention also applies to a duplex arrangement, in which case the illustrated platen would be replaced with a lower printhead.
• FIGS 28A and B The mechanism that is illustrated in Figures 28A and B is suitable for use in conjunction with a wide format printer having a single printhead 51.
• a platen 80 and the single printhead 51 define a gap 81 through which the print media is fed, in the direction of arrow 82.
• a capping member 83 is provided in the form of a portion of a replaceable roll 84 of sheet material of a type to be described (by way of example), and a take-up reel 85 is provided for storing spent sheet material 83 following a capping and/or purging operation.
• Print media is advanced beyond the printhead assembly in the direction of arrow 82 or, if required, is retracted in the opposite direction. 2.
• the platen 80 is lowered by an actuating mechanism 86.
• the platen 80 is raised by the actuating mechanism 86 to position the capping member 83 in nozzle capping engagement with the printhead chips 57.
• the spent capping member portion of the capping material 83 is moved through the gap 81 and wound onto the take-up reel 85.
• the actuating mechanism 85 may comprise a geared motor drive, pneumatic actuator or other such mechanism as is known in the art for effecting movement of relatively small mechanical devices.
• the roll 84 of sheet-like capping material has a width (in the direction into the page) which is approximately equal to the length of the printheads.
• the material from which the capping member 83 is formed will be dependent upon whether simple capping is required or whether the capping member is required also to absorb and carry purged ink and other material away from the printing zone of the printhead.
• the material might be selected for hydrophobic properties, and when required to assist in purging functions the material might be selected for hydrophilic properties.
• the former material might comprise a closed cell thermoplastics material and the latter material might comprise and open cell silicone material.
• the material from which the capping member is formed will normally exhibit a degree of compressibility in order that a positive reactive force might be established and maintained between the printheads and the capping member during the capping operation.
• the capping member 83 might be formed from layered sheets, so that a fluid (ie, a liquid or a gas) might be directed into the region between the layers to change the effective thickness of the capping member.
• two (duplex) printheads 51 are positioned one above the other to define a gap 80 through which print media is passed, in the direction of arrow 81 , during a printing operation.
• any print media that is positioned in the printer is moved in the direction of arrow 84 by rollers 85 and the upper printhead 51 is raised (relative to the lower printhead) by an actuating mechanism 86, as indicated in Figure 29B.
• the capping member 82 is then moved rectilinearly by an actuating mechanism 87 to the position shown in Figure 29C, where it is interposed between the printheads 51 and located in nozzle capping engagement with the printhead chips 57 on both of the printheads. Positive engagement between the capping member 82 and the two printheads is effected by lowering the upper printhead 51 onto the capping member 82.
• the capping member 82 may, as illustrated in Figure 30, comprise a single-sided member when required to cap a single printhead 51 or it may, for the capping function illustrated in Figures 7A to C, be double sided. In either case, the capping side or portion of the member has a configuration as shown in Figure 30. As illustrated, the capping member 82 has a body portion 90 onto which is moulded or otherwise secured a capping portion having an integrally formed lip portion 91 which surrounds a cavity 92.
• the body portion 90 is formed from a metal such as aluminium or from a rigid plastics material, and the capping portion (including the lip portion 91) is formed from an elastomeric material.
• the capping member 82 may be formed as a one-piece member with a length that corresponds with that of the printhead to be capped or it may be formed from conjoined shorter-length portions that have an aggregate length corresponding to that of the printhead.
• the interior or underside of the capping member as illustrated in Figure 30 may be formed with a cavity or chamber (a "purging chamber") for receiving material that is purged from a printhead during a purging operation. Purged material may be directed into the purging chamber either by way of the cavity 92 or by way of a separate route.
• a cavity or chamber for receiving material that is purged from a printhead during a purging operation. Purged material may be directed into the purging chamber either by way of the cavity 92 or by way of a separate route.
• each printhead chip 57 is provided with 7680 printing fluid delivery nozzles 150.
• the nozzles are arrayed in twelve rows 151, each having 640 nozzles, with an inter-nozzle spacing X of 32 microns. Adjacent rows are staggered by a distance equal to one-half of the inter-nozzle spacing so that a nozzle in one row is positioned mid-way between two nozzles in adjacent rows. Also, there is an inter-nozzle spacing Y of 80 microns between adjacent rows of nozzles.
• Two adjacent rows of the nozzles 150 are fed from a common supply of printing fluid. This, with the staggered arrangement, allows for closer spacing of ink dots during printing than would be possible with a single row of nozzles and also allows for a level of redundancy that accommodates nozzle failure.
• the printhead chips 57 are manufactured using an integrated circuit fabrication technique and, as previously indicated, embody micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). Each printhead chip 57 includes a silicon wafer substrate 152, and a 0.42 micron 1 P4M 12 volt CMOS micro-processing circuit is formed on the wafer. Thus, a silicon dioxide layer 153 is deposited on the substrate 152 as a dielectric layer and aluminium electrode contact layers 154 are deposited on the silicon dioxide layer 153. Both the substrate 152 and the layer 153 are etched to define an ink channel 155, and an aluminium diffusion barrier 156 is positioned about the ink channel 155.
• MEMS micro-electromechanical systems
• a passivation layer 157 of silicon nitride is deposited over the aluminium contact layers 154 and the layer 153. Portions of the passivation layer 157 that are positioned over the contact layers 154 have openings 158 therein to provide access to the contact layers.
• Each nozzle 150 includes a nozzle chamber 159 which is defined by a nozzle wall 160, a nozzle roof 161 and a radially inner nozzle rim 162.
• the ink channel 155 is in fluid communication with the chamber 159.
• An encircling wall 165 surrounds the nozzle and provides a stationery seal lip 166 that, when the nozzle 150 is at rest as shown in Figure 35, is adjacent the moveable rim 163.
• a fhiidic seal 167 is formed due to the surface tension of ink trapped between the stationery seal 166 and the moveable seal lip 164. This prevents leakage of ink from the chamber whilst providing a low resistance coupling between the encircling wall 165 and a nozzle wall 160.
• the nozzle is filled with ink 177 that defines a meniscus 178 under the influence of surface tension.
• the ink is retained in the chamber 159 by the meniscus, and will not generally leak out in the absence of some other physical influence.
• a current is passed between the contacts 174 and 175, passing through the actuator beam 173.
• the self-heating of the beam 173 causes the beam to expand, and the actuator beam 173 is dimensioned and shaped so that the beam expands predominantly in a horizontal direction with respect to Figures 32 to 34.
• the expansion is constrained to the left by the anchor 176, so the end of the actuator beam 173 adjacent the lever arm 170 is impelled to the right.
• the downward movement (and slight rotation) of the lever arm 170 is amplified by the distance of the nozzle wall 160 from the passive beams 172.
• the downward movement of the nozzle walls and roof causes a pressure increase within the chamber 159, causing the meniscus 178 to bulge as shown in Figure 33, although the surface tension of the ink causes the fluid seal 167 to be stretched by this motion without allowing ink to leak out.
• the meniscus 178 forms the concave shape shown in Figure 34.
• Surface tension causes the pressure in the chamber 159 to remain relatively low until ink has been sucked upwards through the inlet 155, which returns the nozzle arrangement and the ink to the quiescent situation shown in Figure 34.
• Each compressed image is transferred to the PEC integrated circuit 190 where it is then stored in a memory buffer 195.
• the compressed image is then retrieved and fed to an image expander 196 in which images are retrieved.
• any dither may be applied to any contone layer by a dithering means 197 and any black bi-level layer may be composited over the contone layer by a compositor 198 together with any infrared tags which may be rendered by the rendering means 199.
• the PEC integrated circuit 190 then drives the integrated circuits of the printhead chips 57 to print the composite image data at step 200 to produce a printed image 201.
• the process performed by the PEC integrated circuit 190 may be considered to consist of a number of distinct stages.
• the first stage has the ability to expand a JPEG-compressed contone CMYK layer.
• bi-level IR tag data can be encoded from the compressed image.
• the second stage dithers the contone CMYK layer using a dither matrix selected by a dither matrix select map and, if required, composites a bi- level black layer over the resulting bi-level K layer and adds the IR layer to the image.
• a fixative layer is also generated at each dot position wherever there is a need in any of the
• the last stage prints the bi-level CMYK+IR data through the printhead assembly 50.
• Figure 42 shows the PEC integrated circuit 190 in the context of the overall printing system architecture.
• the various components of the architecture include:
• the PEC integrated circuit 190 effectively performs four basic levels of functionality:
• the PEC integrated circuit 190 incorporates a simple micro-controller CPU core 204 to perform the following functions: • Perform QA integrated circuit authentication protocols via a serial interface 205 between print images.
• the PEC integrated circuit 190 includes a highspeed serial interface 208 (such as a standard IEEE 1394 interface), a standard JPEG decoder 209, a standard Group 4 Fax decoder 210, a custom half-toner/compositor (HC) 211 , a custom tag encoder 212, a line loader/formatter (LLF) 213, and a printhead interface 214 (PHI) which communicates with the printhead chips 57.
• the decoders 209 and 210 and the tag encoder 212 are buffered to the HC 211.
• the tag encoder 212 allocates infrared tags to images.
• the print engine function works in a double-buffered manner.
• the process expands any JPEG-compressed contone (CMYK) layers, and expands any of two Group 4 Fax-compressed bi-level data streams.
• the two streams are the black layer and a matte for selecting between dither matrices for contone dithering.
• any tags are encoded for later rendering in either IR or black ink.
• the contone layer is dithered, and position tags and the bi-level spot layer are composited over the resulting bi-level dithered layer.
• the data stream is ideally adjusted to create smooth transitions across overlapping segments in the printhead assembly and ideally it is adjusted to compensate for dead nozzles in the printhead assemblies. Up to six channels of bi-level data are produced from this stage.
• the printhead modules 55 may provide for CMY only, with K pushed into the CMY channels and IR ignored.
• the position tags may be printed in K if IR ink is not employed.
• the resultant bi-level CMYK- IR dot-data is buffered and formatted for printing with the integrated circuits of the printhead chips 57 via a set of line buffers (not shown). The majority of these line buffers might be ideally stored on the external DRAM 207.
• the six channels of bi-level dot data are printed via the PHI 214.
• the HC 211 combines the functions of half-toning the contone (typically CMYK) layer to a bi-level version of the same, and compositing the spotl bi-level layer over the appropriate half-toned contone layer(s). If there is no K ink, the HC 211 functions to map K to CMY dots as appropriate. It also selects between two dither matrices on a pixel-by-pixel basis, based on the corresponding value in the dither matrix select map.
• CMYK contone
• the input to the HC 211 is an expanded contone layer (from the JPEG decoder 205) through a buffer 217, an expanded bi-level spotl layer through a buffer 218, an expanded dither-matrix-select bitmap at typically the same resolution as the contone layer through a buffer 219, and tag data at full dot resolution through a buffer (FIFO) 220.
• the LLF 213 receives dot information from the HC 211, loads the dots for a given print line into appropriate buffer storage (some on integrated circuit (not shown) and some in the external DRAM 207) and formats them into the order required for the integrated circuits of the printhead chips 57. More specifically, the input to the LLF 213 is a set of six 32-bit words and a Data Valid bit, all generated by the HC 211.
• the PHI 214 is the means by which the PEC integrated circuit 190 loads the printhead chips 57 with the dots to be printed, and controls the actual dot printing process. It takes input from the LLF 213 and outputs data to the printhead chips 57.
• the PHI 214 is capable of dealing with a variety of printhead assembly lengths and formats.
• a combined characterization vector of each printhead assembly 50 and 51 can be read back via the serial interface 205.
• the characterization vector may include dead nozzle information as well as relative printhead module alignment data.
• Each printhead module can be queried via a low-speed serial bus 221 to return a characterization vector of the printhead module.
• the characterization vectors from multiple printhead modules can be combined to construct a nozzle defect list for the entire printhead assembly and allows the PEC integrated circuit 190 to compensate for defective nozzles during printing. As long as the number of defective nozzles is low, the compensation can produce results indistinguishable from those of a printhead assembly with no defective nozzles.
• the printhead will normally have at least four color channels.
• the printhead will normally incorporate at least 1400 ink delivery nozzles per inch of print width for each color.
• the volume deposited per drop may be of the order of 2xlO "12 1 or less.
• the energy level expenditure per drop ejection may be of the order of 20OxIO '9 J. or less. It will be understood that the constructional and operating principles of the printer of the present invention may be realised with various embodiments. Thus, variations and modifications may be made in respect of the embodiments as specifically described above by way of example.

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• 2004
  • 2004-12-06 AT AT04822540T patent/ATE442257T1/de not_active IP Right Cessation
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  • 2004-12-06 CA CA2588625A patent/CA2588625C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
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