Rounded capillary vent system for ink-jet printers

Abstract

A capillary vent system for a service station cap system in an ink-jet printer having a basin formed on a substantially planar surface mounted on the under side of a nylon sled subjacent a cap for a printhead mounted on the top surface of the sled which serves as a cover for the basin. A vent is defined between a semicircular groove formed on the under side of the basin cover such that the vent is in fluid communication with the basin and has a lower surface substantially coplanar with the underside of the cover. The vent extends from the edge of the cover to a location over the basin. Ink from the printhead collects in the basin and at least some of the collected ink drains through the vent. The vent forms a capillary space between the basin member and the basin cover to draw the collected ink in, thus preventing vent clogging.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.