Patent ID: 6435646
Filing Date: 2002-08-20
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
A fiber tracking management system for controlling fibers clinging to an inkjet printhead installed in a carriage which traverses over a printzone to print an image on a print media with ink ejected from the printhead in an inkjet printing mechanism with the inkjet printhead having an orifice plate from which the ink is ejected and a cheek region adjacent to the orifice plate, the fiber tracking management system comprising:a sled which moves between a rest position and a capping position a printhead cap supported by the sled to seal the orifice plate when the sled is in the capping position; and a fiber crushing member comprising a pad of compressible material supported by the sled to contact the printhead when the sled is in the servicing position and crush fibers dangling from the printhead against the printhead, wherein the fiber crushing member defines a slot therethrough, with the cap being located in the slot and extending a first distance from the sled when in the rest position and the fiber crushing pad extending a second distance from the sled, with the second distance being greater than the first distance, and wherein the fiber crushing member crushes said dangling fibers against the cheek region.