Modular print head with adjustable modules

1. A modular pagewidth printhead that comprises

a chassis;

a reservoir structure mounted on the chassis and defining a number of longitudinally extending ink reservoirs;

a plurality of printhead modules mounted on the chassis so that the chassis is interposed between the printhead modules and the reservoir structure, the printhead modules each including an ink distribution assembly and an elongate printhead integrated circuit mounted on the ink distribution assembly, the ink distribution assembly extending partially through the chassis to engage the reservoir structure; and

adjustment mechanisms arranged on the chassis to engage respective printhead modules to adjust a lateral position of the respective printhead modules to facilitate alignment of the printhead integrated circuits.

2. A modular pagewidth printhead as claimed in claim 1 , in which each ink distribution assembly includes a cover member that defines conduits that extend through the chassis and into respective ink reservoirs of the reservoir structure and a micro-molding mounted on the cover member, each printhead integrated circuit being mounted on a respective micro-molding to receive ink therefrom.

3. A modular pagewidth printhead as claimed in claim 2 , in which each adjustment mechanism includes a module engagement plate forming part of the carrier, the module engagement plates defining displaceable formations that engage respective printhead modules, the displaceable formations being, manually operable to displace the printhead modules.

4. A modular pagewidth printhead as claimed in claim 3 , in which the displacement formations of each engagement plate include an input lever member, hinged link arms that engage the associated printhead module and an interposed mechanism that transfers movement from the input lever member to the link arms, the input lever member, interposed mechanism and link arm being configured to reduce input movement from the input lever arm to the link arms by a predetermined order of magnitude.

5. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 4 , in which said order of magnitude is at least 500.

6. A modular pagewidth printhead as claimed in claim 4 , in which displacement devices are engaged with the carrier and positioned to bear against respective input lever members, the displacement devices being operable by a user to displace the input lever members.

7. A modular pagewidth printhead as claimed in claim 6 , in which the displacement devices each include a screw-type fastener threaded through the carrier and an adjuster block interposed between the fastener and the input lever arm so that manipulation of the screw-type fastener results in displacement of the input lever arm.