Patent ID: 6669325
Filing Date: 2003-12-30
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
A method of improving performance of a fluid ejection device from which fluid droplets are projected through space onto an object, the method comprising:positioning a first airflow deflecting means proximate said fluid ejection device in a first direction; moving said fluid ejection device and said first deflecting means in said first direction relative to said object with said first deflecting means leading said fluid ejection device to thereby reduce airflow between said relatively moving fluid ejection device and said object; and ejecting fluid droplets onto said object, wherein said fluid ejection device is comprised of a plurality of fluid ejectors aligned in said first direction, wherein said fluid ejection device is bi-directionally moved relative to said object, and wherein the method further includes: positioning a second airflow deflecting means proximate said fluid ejection device with said second deflecting means leading said device during relative movement of said ejection device and said object in a second direction; and ejecting fluid droplets onto said object as said ejection device is moved in said second direction, wherein said fluid election device is moved in a straight scanning line, wherein said fluid ejectors include nozzles arranged in a plane spaced from said object and wherein said first airflow deflecting means has a boundary extending in said plane perpendicular to said line.