US 6,825,864 B2 · Multi-media printer

Abstract

A printer capable of transferring images to different types of media is disclosed. Media sheets of different sizes and types may be dispensed through a single input path to a print station including a printhead and a platen. The printhead is adapted for transferring images to media using either a direct thermal or dye diffusion process. A capstan roller, platen roller, picker assemblies and kicker assemblies are driven by a single motor, allowing for substantial cost and space savings. Other features are directed to improving the quality of images using the direct thermal and dye diffusion processes.

Claims24

Dependent claims

A printer for transferring images to media using a multi-color dye diffusion process or a direct thermal process, the printer comprising:

a print station including a printhead and a platen for receiving sheets of receiver media fed therebetween from an input path;
a first discharge path for translating completely imaged receiver media, created using the multi-color dye diffusion process or the direct thermal process, from the print station to an output tray;
a second discharge path for translating receiver media from the print station to a compartment separated from the output tray during intermediate passes of the dye diffusion process;
and
an output diverter which is movable to guide media sheets from the print station to said first discharge path when said output diverter is in a first position and to guide media sheets from said print station to said compartment during intermediate passes of the dye diffusion process when said output diverter is in a second position.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Multi-media printer

Life of this patent

Multi-media printer

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims24