Patent ID: 6234626
Filing Date: 2001-05-22
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
A hard copy engine for a hard copy apparatus adapted for using a cassette-type writing engine containing therein ink-jet system wet components, the wet components including at least one ink reservoir having ink therein fluidically coupled to inking means for transferring the ink from the writing engine to print media transported through said hard copy apparatus and servicing means for servicing said inking means, the hard copy engine comprising:a printing station;means for transporting the print media to and from the printing station; andmeans for interfacing the hard copy engine mechanically and electrically with the writing engine, the means for interfacing includinga cassette bay for receiving the writing engine therein for positioning the writing engine,means for mechanically and electrically engaging and activating the wet components, andmeans for aligning the inking means of the writing engine to the printing station, including means for extracting the inking means from the cassette-type writing engine, for delivering the inking means to the printing station, and for returning the inking means into the cassette-type writing engine following a printing operation;wherein the hard copy engine has no components in contact with ink.