Modular mobile phone with integrated printer
View Patent ↗A modular mobile phone includes a printhead and ink supply module that is received and retained into a support chassis. A battery module cradles the printhead and ink supply module from a rear side of the mobile phone. An external casing locates on a front side of the mobile phone and is configured to mate with the support chassis. In an assembled configuration print media entry and exit slots are provided between a portion of the external casing and a portion of the support chassis. The print media entry and exit slots communicate with an internal transport assembly of the printhead and ink supply module.
1. A modular mobile phone with integrated printer includes:
a printhead and ink supply module;
a support chassis molding configured to receive and retain the printhead and ink supply module;
a battery module arranged to cradle the printhead and ink supply module from a rear side of the mobile phone and an external casing arranged for placement on a front side of the mobile phone and configured to mate with the support chassis;
wherein the external casing and the support chassis are shaped to provide print media entry and exit slots therebetween.
2. A modular mobile phone according to claim 1 , wherein the printhead and ink supply module includes a print media transport assembly arranged to communicate with the print media entry and exit slots.
3. A modular mobile phone according to claim 2 , wherein the print media transport assembly is arranged to transport print media across a printhead located in the printhead and ink supply module.
4. A modular mobile phone according to claim 3 , wherein the printhead comprises a stationary printhead that extends across the width of the print media entry slot.
5. A modular mobile phone according to claim 1 , wherein the support chassis is adapted to slidably receive and retain the print head and ink supply module.
6. A modular mobile phone according to claim 5 , wherein the support chassis includes under cut channels that receive and retain corresponding flanges provided on the printhead and ink supply module.
7. A modular mobile phone according to claim 1 , wherein the printhead and ink supply module includes an ink supply and distribution unit in communication with the printhead.