Printhead With Multiple Ink Ejection ICS Coupled To A Common Flexible PCB Connector
A printhead is provided for a printer. The printhead includes a support member defining a plurality of ink supply channels. A fluid distribution arrangement is mounted in fluid communication with the support member. A plurality of micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) integrated circuits (IC's) is mounted in fluid communication with the fluid distribution arrangement. Each IC includes a plurality of ink ejection nozzles configured to eject ink from the fluid distribution arrangement and onto print media. A flexible printed circuit board (PCB) connector is configured to connect electrical power and signals to each of the ICs.
1 . A printhead for a printer, the printhead comprising:
a support member defining a plurality of ink supply channels;
a fluid distribution arrangement mounted in fluid communication with the support member;
a plurality of micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) integrated circuits (IC's) mounted in fluid communication with the fluid distribution arrangement, each IC having a plurality of ink ejection nozzles configured to eject ink from the fluid distribution arrangement and onto print media; and
a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) connector configured to connect electrical power and signals to each of the ICs.
2 . A printhead as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the IC's are located, in a removable manner, in a channel portion of a casing by way of the support member.
3 . A printhead as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the casing contains electrical circuitry mounted to a PCB for controlling delivery of computer regulated power and drive signals by way of the flexible PCB connector.
4 . A printhead as claimed in claim 3 , wherein the PCB is carried by a plastics material molding which is located within the casing.
5 . A printhead as claimed in claim 4 , wherein the molding also carries a busbar which, in turn, carries current for powering the ICs and the electrical circuitry.
6 . A printhead as claimed in claim 5 , wherein a cover closes the casing and, when closed, the cover acts against a loading element that urges the flexible printed circuit connector against the busbar.
7 . A printhead as claimed in claim 1 , wherein each IC further comprises a plurality of nozzles for expelling pressurized air toward the print media.