US 2014/0368571 A1 · QUALITY ANALYSIS OF PRINTHEADS WITH CLEAR FLUID

Abstract

Systems and methods for improving the quality analysis of printheads that apply transparent or hard-to-detect fluids to a media. The system includes a printhead operable to apply a clear fluid to a print media. The system also includes a controller operable to enter a diagnostic mode for quality analysis of the printhead. The controller initiates a supply of diagnostic fluid to the printhead that includes a colorant. The controller then directs the printhead to apply the diagnostic fluid to the print media. Because the diagnostic fluid includes a colorant, the output of the printhead will be more visible on the media.

Claims17

Dependent claims

A system comprising:

a printhead that includes a plurality of nozzles operable to apply a clear fluid to a print media;
and
a controller operable to enter a diagnostic mode for quality analysis of the printhead, to initiate a supply of a colorant to the nozzles to form a diagnostic fluid that includes a mixture of the colorant and the clear fluid, and to direct the nozzles to apply the diagnostic fluid on the print media.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Facts

Application

13/920,572Filed 18 Jun 2013

Published

18 Dec 2014

Term ends

Not estimatedThe source records don’t support an estimate.

Classification6 codes

B41J 2/2132
For multi-colour printing: print quality control characterised by dot disposition, e.g. for reducing white stripes or banding
B41J 2/211
Characterised by the ink properties: mixing of inks, solvent or air prior to paper contact
B41J 2/2114
Characterised by the ink properties: ejecting specialized liquids, e.g. transparent or processing liquids
B41J 2/2117
Ejecting specialized liquids, e.g. transparent or processing liquids: ejecting white liquids

Quality analysis of printheads with clear fluid

Life of this patent

Quality analysis of printheads with clear fluid

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims17