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REV.-A
2.2.2 Summary of the Operation of the Printer Mechanism
Figure 2-2 provides a summary of the mechanisms of printer models 4110/4160.
These printer mechanisms consist of the print mechanism (carriage mechanism), the paper feeding
mechanism, and the ink mechanism.
Print mechanism
This print mechanism consists of the carriage mechanism and the printhead. The
printhead moves vertically according to the carriage movement. The carriage is
driven by the carriage motor.
The encoder unit generates carriage position and speed control signals, and provides feedback to the
control circuit.
The carriage home position sensor generates carriage reference position signals.
Paper feed mechanism
This main printer paper feed mechanism, as opposed to the previous paper feed mechanism, includes
the top edge (TE) holder and the paper exchange mechanism. Paper feed is carried out by the paper
feed motor, and the paper end (PE) sensor detects whether there is any paper for paper feed routing.
The TE holder mechanism holds the paper to prevent it from flying up, widens the print area, and drives
the TE holder motor. The TE sensor generates signals to detect whether the paper is being held properly
or not.
The paper exchange mechanism is used to drive the paper feed motor, and converts
the paper feed method to either friction or tractor. This conversion is carried
out by the release solenoid. The release sensor generates a signal to detect the state of conversion.
The CSF sensor generates a CSF signal to detect whether the optional CSF is installed or not.
Ink mechanism
This ink mechanism contains the ink cartridge (holder), pump unit, and printhead. The ink cartridge
supplies ink to the head. Head cleaning is carried out by the pump unit; with ink being discharged to
the nozzle, and then replenishing the nozzle with fresh ink. Wasted ink is filled into the wasted ink pack
cartridge.
The pump unit contains a capping mechanism that prevents air from entering the ink mechanism by
capping the head, a cleaner that cleans the surface of the head nozzle, and a pump mechanism, with
their operations being conducted by the valve solenoid and pump motor.
The holder ink end sensor detects the no ink and no cartridge signals. The thermistor detects the ink
heat (TH signal) and provides feedback to the head drive circuit. Accordingly, a uniform print level is
maintained without being affected by the thermal conditions.
2-4
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