Modular printhead incorporating printhead modules on a delivery extrusion
View Patent ↗A modular printhead includes an elongate extrusion defining internal passages for carrying air, ink and fixative. The extrusion further defines repeated patterns of holes along its length with each pattern having holes in fluid communication with respective passages. A plurality of printhead modules is serially engaged along the extrusion with respective patterns of holes. Each printhead module defines inlets aligned in fluid communication with respective holes and internal chambers in fluid communication with respective inlets. Each printhead module includes an ink ejection integrated circuit (IC) which is fed the air, ink and fixative from the internal chambers.
1. A modular printhead comprising:
an elongate extrusion defining longitudinally extending internal passages for carrying air, ink and fixative, the extrusion further defining repeated patterns of holes along its length with each pattern having holes in fluid communication with respective passages; and
a plurality of printhead modules serially engaged along the extrusion with respective patterns of holes, each printhead module defining inlets aligned in fluid communication with respective holes and internal chambers in fluid communication with respective inlets, each printhead module having an ink ejection integrated circuit (IC) which is fed the air, ink and fixative from the internal chambers.
2. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 1 , wherein each pattern of holes consists of a plurality of holes which are arranged to form a substantially straight line.
3. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 1 , wherein each printhead module comprises at least one flexible printed circuit board (PCB) electrically coupled to the IC.
4. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the straight line is oriented obliquely with respect to the extrusion.
5. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 3 , wherein said at least one flexible PCB comprises:
a first PCB extending from the IC; and
a second flexible PCB electrically coupled to and extending from the first flexible PCB.
6. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 3 , wherein said at least one flexible PCB wraps around the printhead module and the extrusion.
7. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 5 , wherein the first flexible PCB has a finer pitch than the second flexible PCB.
8. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 5 , wherein the second flexible PCB carries two busbars for powering each printhead module.