Modular printhead with printhead modules including nested parts
View Patent ↗A modular printhead includes a chassis and a plurality of ink ejection printhead modules mounted to the chassis. Each printhead module includes a first molding defining a first recess. A second molding is received within the first recess and defines a second recess. An ink ejection integrated circuit (IC) is received within the second recess. A tape automated bond (TAB) film extends from the IC and across the moldings. Typically, the recesses are elongate channels.
1. A modular printhead comprising a chassis and a plurality of ink ejection printhead modules mounted to the chassis, each printhead module comprising:
a cover molding adapted to plug into a reservoir of the chassis;
a micromolding received within a channel defined by the cover molding;
a printhead chip received within a channel defined by the micromolding; and
a tape automated bond (TAB) film extending from the printhead chip and across the micromolding and the cover molding.
2. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the cover molding defines a bend around which the TAB film extends.
3. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the cover molding further defines a plurality of parallel web portions located in its bend.
4. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the cover molding further defines a plurality of tubes configured to extend through the chassis and engage in fluid communication with respective ink reservoirs of the reservoir.
5. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the micromolding defines a pair of plates extending outwardly away from the channel defined therein.
6. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 5 , wherein the micromolding defines a body having an apex to facilitate insertion into the cover molding, and from which the plates protrude.
7. A modular printhead as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising an adjustment mechanism for alignment of the printhead modules along the chassis.