Patent ID: 8277026
Filing Date: 2012-10-02
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
1. A method of inserting a printhead cartridge in a printer, the printhead cartridge having a printhead with a nozzle face defining an array of nozzles for ejecting ink on to a media substrate fed past the printhead in a media feed direction, the method comprising the steps of: providing a printer with at least three ink tanks for storing the inks of different color, the printer also having a cradle defining a reference surface for engaging a datum point on the printhead cartridge to support the nozzle face at a precise spacing from a media feed path, a fluid interface in fluid communication with the ink tanks, and a latch for securing the printhead cartridge in the cradle, the latch being movable between an open position where access to the cradle is unobstructed, and a closed position where access to the cradle is obstructed; placing the printhead cartridge in the cradle such that the data point rests on the reference surface while the latch is in the open position, the printhead cartridge having a fluid coupling positioned to align with the fluid interface when placed in the cradle; moving the latch to the closed position to secure the printhead cartridge in cradle; providing a mechanical linkage between the latch and the fluid interface such that the fluid interface sealingly engages the fluid coupling upon moving the latch to the closed position; wherein, any force exerted on the printhead cartridge during sealing engagement of the fluid interface and the fluid coupling is not directed to disengage the reference surface from the datum point.