Cap Mechanism - Epson SQ-1170 Service Manual

2.1.4.3 Cap Mechanism

This mechanism is provided to prevent the nozzles from drying or forming bubbles while they are not
used. In this mode, when the pump is driven with the cap closely contacted to the nozzles, the internal
pressure of the capped section becomes lower than that of the printhead section. This causes the ink
in the printhead to flow toward the pump through the cap.
The capping is automatically performed when the carriage hits the left stroke end. At this time, the cap
covers the printhead nozzles while the slider valve closes the air inlet.
When the carriage moves right ward in this condition, the slider valve is released from the air inlet and
allows the air to enter the capped section, so that the cap can be easily separated from the printhead.
Carriage Movement
Carriage
Figure 2-26. Cap Movement
Close
2-27. Air Inlet Operation
Figure
Negative Pressure
Air and
Wasted Ink
To Wasted
Ink Drain Tank
Carriage Movement
2 - 1 7
Slider
Valve
/
—Air
Inlet
Air
REV.-A