Patent ID: 8684494
Filing Date: 2014-04-01
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for applying a fluid to a printhead face comprising: a support member having a first end and a second end; a wiper mount to which the first end of the support member is mounted; a wiper mounted to the second end of the support member; a container configured to store a volume of release agent; an applicator positioned adjacent to the wiper; a wicking member having a first end and a second end, the first end being submerged in the volume of release agent within the container and the second end being fluidly connected to the applicator to deliver release agent by capillary action from the container to the applicator, the wicking member being operatively connected to the wiper mount; a first actuator operatively connected to the wiper mount and configured to move the wiper mount to move the applicator and the wiper into contact with a printhead face to enable the applicator to apply release agent to the printhead face and the wiper to wipe the printhead face; and a second actuator operatively connected to the wiper mount to move the wiper and the applicator parallel to the printhead face to enable the wiper to wipe the printhead face as the applicator applies release agent to the printhead face.