Patent ID: 8313164
Filing Date: 2012-11-20
Classification: B41J,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An image forming apparatus, comprising: an inkjet printhead including a nozzle plate, the nozzle plate having a plurality of nozzle holes formed therein; a sealant member arranged to cover the nozzle holes of the nozzle plate; a pull tab member positioned to support the sealant member, the pull tab having a looped portion under the nozzle plate; and a maintenance mechanism having a maintenance sled located below the print head whereby the nozzle plate faces the maintenance sled such that the maintenance sled operationally connects to the looped portion of the pull tab member, the maintenance sled having an attachment post with a height close to the sealant member; wherein movement of the maintenance sled from a first position to a second position pulls the looped portion which causes the sealant member to be pulled off the nozzle plate at a peel angle of about 180°.