Printer maintenance carousel system and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a printer maintenance carousel system and method. A service carousel for collecting waste ink ejected by one or more printheads of an inkjet printer is also provided. In some cases, the service carousel may include a tray held in an enclosure and an actuator assembly. The actuator assembly may be configured to drive the tray to rotate, e.g., index, each time the printhead ejects waste ink into the maintenance carousel. This rotation may accumulate ink in a circular pattern within the tray of the maintenance carousel. In some cases, the maintenance carousel may include an electrostatic plate configured to generate an electromagnetic field that may improve collection of small droplets or atomized particles of waste ink. In further examples, the maintenance carousel may include a fan assembly configured to generate an airflow through the maintenance carousel such that small droplets or atomized particles of waste ink may be collected by the one or more filters.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of printers, and more particularly, to a maintenance turntable used in a printer. Background Art

[0002] Inkjet printers use a printhead to eject tiny droplets of ink onto paper to create images or text. During operation, the printhead (or multiple printheads) of an inkjet printer typically "spits" or ejects small amounts of ink into a waste area. Ejecting waste ink keeps the nozzles of the printhead fresh and prevents print quality from degrading over time. However, waste ink tends to accumulate in the waste area and, in some cases, interferes with the operation of the printer. For example, waste ink can accumulate into vertical structures or "stalagmites" that extend upward and away from the waste area. If enough waste ink accumulates, these stalagmites will eventually grow tall enough to contact the printhead or other components of the printer. This can cause print quality problems, create the possibility of waste ink seeping back into the printhead, or lead to other undesirable results.

[0003] Some printers utilize absorbent pads located in a waste area to collect waste ink. However, over time, the felt pads become so full of ink that they no longer absorb the waste ink deposited by the print head, and the waste ink can accumulate on the pads. Therefore, users must regularly replace saturated pads with new ones. This causes the inconvenience and increased cost of consumers who purchase and manually install replacement felt pads. In addition, fixed waste ink collection mechanisms like replaceable pads produce the problem of waste ink being repeatedly deposited in the same position. Therefore, waste ink may tend to accumulate in vertical structures (e.g., stalagmites). These vertical structures, for example, can grow to such a large size that they affect the print head and interrupt the operation of the printer.

[0004] Furthermore, waste ink is typically ejected from the printhead in the form of small droplets or atomized particles that are difficult to collect. These atomized particles can migrate to other undesirable locations within the printer and accumulate on, for example, critical printer components. Consequently, ineffective waste ink collection can lead to printer damage or malfunction.

[0005] Due to at least the aforementioned issues, there is a need for a waste ink collection mechanism that reduces the likelihood of waste ink accumulating into vertical formations that could interfere with the operation of an inkjet printer. Furthermore, it is desirable for the waste ink collection mechanism to provide improved efficiency in collecting small droplets of atomized particles of waste ink, which otherwise may tend to accumulate in undesirable and potentially harmful areas within the printer. Thus, an improved waste ink collection mechanism may reduce costs to the consumer and / or increase the potential lifespan of an inkjet printer. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure relates to a maintenance turntable for use in a printer.

[0007] A maintenance turntable for collecting waste ink in a printer is disclosed. The maintenance turntable includes an enclosure provided in the form of a shroud and a shroud cover connected to the shroud. The shroud cover includes an opening through which waste ink can be deposited in the maintenance turntable. The maintenance turntable includes a tray supported for rotation within the shroud. The maintenance turntable also includes an actuator assembly connected to the tray. The actuator assembly includes a one-way clutch configured to allow rotation only in a first direction, an actuator arranged to rotate the one-way clutch, and a gear unit configured to rotate in unison with the one-way clutch. The gear unit is designed to engage the tray.

[0008] In some aspects, the printer is configured to engage the actuator assembly and drive the tray to rotate by striking the actuator each time one or more printheads of the printer deposit waste ink into the maintenance carousel.

[0009] In a further aspect, the maintenance dial includes a spring extending between an anchor positioned on the shroud cover and a hook portion of the actuator.

[0010] In some aspects, the spring applies a return force to the actuator in response to the printer engaging the actuator.

[0011] In other aspects, the shroud includes a stop positioned to limit rotation of the actuator in response to the return force.

[0012] In some aspects, the direction in which the actuator rotates in response to being engaged by the printer corresponds to a first rotational direction, and the one-way clutch prevents the actuator assembly from driving the tray to rotate when the actuator rotates in response to the return force.

[0013] In some aspects, the actuator assembly is configured to drive the tray in rotation, and the shroud includes one or more flexible tabs arranged to apply friction to the tray when the actuator assembly drives the tray in rotation.

[0014] In some aspects, an absorbent pad is positioned within the tray and is configured to absorb waste ink dispensed from the printer, the absorbent pad being provided in the form of felt.

[0015] In some aspects, the actuator assembly causes indexing of the tray.

[0016] In some aspects, the waste ink accumulates in a circular pattern within the tray.

[0017] A maintenance turntable is disclosed, comprising an electrostatic plate for collecting waste ink from a printer. The maintenance turntable includes a shield and a shield cover associated with the shield. The shield cover includes one or more electrostatic plate housings. The one or more electrostatic plates are at least partially disposed within the one or more electrostatic plate housings and are configured to generate an electromagnetic field. The maintenance turntable also includes a tray supported for rotation within the shield and an actuator assembly configured to drive the tray to rotate. The actuator assembly includes an actuator and a clutch.

[0018] In some aspects, the one or more electrostatic plates are provided in the form of two metal electrostatic plates having rectilinear face plates with one or more contacts.

[0019] In another aspect, the two metal electrostatic plates are connected to a transformer configured to apply a voltage to the metal electrostatic plates.

[0020] In some aspects, the electromagnetic field attracts droplets or atomized particles of waste ink toward the electrostatic plate.

[0021] A maintenance turntable is disclosed, comprising a fan assembly for collecting waste ink from a printer. The maintenance turntable includes a housing, a tray disposed within the housing, and an actuator assembly connected to the tray, the housing including one or more openings designed to receive waste ink from the printer. The actuator assembly includes an actuator, a clutch, and a gear unit configured to rotate with the clutch. The maintenance turntable also includes a fan assembly connected to the housing and the tray. The fan assembly is configured to generate an airflow through the maintenance turntable. Internal components of the printer are configured to engage the actuator assembly and drive the tray to rotate by striking the actuator each time one or more print heads of the printer deposit waste ink into the maintenance turntable.

[0022] In some aspects, at least one window is formed in the tray.The at least one window allows air to flow from the tray to the exterior of the enclosure.

[0023] In some aspects, the fan assembly is configured to draw air into the maintenance carousel through the one or more openings and exhaust the air from the maintenance carousel through an output region associated with the fan duct.

[0024] In some aspects, one or more filters are positioned in the fan channel between the fan assembly and the tray.

[0025] In some aspects, the fan duct includes one or more dividers configured to hold the fan assembly in place and one or more pegs configured to hold the one or more filters in place.

[0026] In some aspects, the one or more filters are provided in the form of a reticulated polyurethane foam. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 showing a front isometric view of a first exemplary printer;

[0028] Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 Rear isometric view of the printer;

[0029] Figure 3 Shown in open configuration Figure 1 Isometric view of the printer;

[0030] Figure 4 A device for use with a computer according to the teachings of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1-3 an isometric view of a first exemplary maintenance carousel for use with a printer;

[0031] Figure 5 Shown Figure 4 A top isometric view of the maintenance carousel's pallet;

[0032] Figure 6 Shown along Figure 5 The line 6-6 intercepts Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a tray;

[0033] Figure 7 Shown Figure 5 A top plan view of a pallet;

[0034] Figure 8 Shown Figure 4 An isometric view of the absorbent pad for the maintenance turntable;

[0035] Figure 9 Shows the settings Figure 5 In the tray Figure 8 a top plan view of an absorbent pad;

[0036] Figure 10 Shown Figure 5 A bottom isometric view of a pallet;

[0037] Figure 11 Shown with Figure 5 The pallets are positioned adjacent to each other Figure 4 An isometric view of the actuator assembly of the maintenance turntable;

[0038] Figure 12 Shown Figure 11 an isometric view of a column of an actuator assembly;

[0039] Figure 13 Shown Figure 11 an isometric view of a gasket of an actuator assembly;

[0040] Figure 14 Shown Figure 12 Isometric view of a column with Figure 13 Washers and Figure 11 a one-way clutch of an actuator assembly;

[0041] Figure 15 Shown Figure 11 a side view of the gear unit of the actuator assembly;

[0042] Figure 16 Shown Figure 15 A top isometric view of the gear unit;

[0043] Figure 17 Shown Figure 11 a side isometric view of a portion of an actuator assembly;

[0044] Figure 18 Shown Figure 11 The actuator assembly of the Figure 17 A top isometric view of the section shown in ;

[0045] Figure 19 Shown Figure 11 An isometric view of an actuator assembly of the actuator;

[0046] Figure 20 Shown Figure 19 A bottom plan view of the actuator;

[0047] Figure 21 Shown Figure 19 Bottom isometric view of the actuator;

[0048] Figure 22 Shown with Figure 5 The pallets are set adjacent to each other Figure 11 a bottom isometric view of an actuator assembly;

[0049] Figure 23 Shown Figure 4 A top view of the protective cover of the maintenance turntable;

[0050] Figure 24 Shown Figure 23 Isometric view of the shield;

[0051] Figure 25 Shown Figure 23 an enlarged view of a portion of a shroud including an actuator assembly well;

[0052] Figure 26 Shown Figure 23 an enlarged view of a portion of a shroud including a flexible tab;

[0053] Figure 27 Shows the settings Figure 23 Inside the shield Figure 5 Isometric view of the pallet;

[0054] Figure 28 Shown along Figure 27 The line 28-28 intercepts the setting at Figure 23 Inside the shield Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a tray;

[0055] Figure 29 Shown Figure 4 A top view of the protective cover of the maintenance turntable;

[0056] Figure 30 Shown Figure 29 A top isometric view of the shield cover;

[0057] Figure 31 Shown Figure 29 A bottom isometric view of the shield cover;

[0058] Figure 32 Shown is a diagram including a connecting protrusion Figure 29 an enlarged view of a portion of the shield cover;

[0059] Figure 33 Shown is a receiving member Figure 29 an enlarged view of a portion of the shield cover;

[0060] Figure 34 Shown is a latch and pin assembly Figure 23 an enlarged view of a portion of the shield;

[0061] Figure 35 Shown Figure 4 A top-down isometric view of the maintenance turntable;

[0062] Figure 36 Shown Figure 4 A side view of the maintenance turntable;

[0063] Figure 37 Shown is a Figure 4 an enlarged view of a portion of a second exemplary printer of a maintenance carousel;

[0064] Figure 38 A device for use with a computer according to the teachings of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1-3 a top isometric view of a second exemplary maintenance carousel for use with a printer;

[0065] Figure 39 Shown Figure 38A top isometric view of the maintenance carousel's pallet;

[0066] Figure 40 Shown Figure 39 A top isometric view of a tray with an absorbent pad and Figure 38 The actuator assembly of the maintenance turntable is positioned adjacent thereto;

[0067] Figure 41 Shown Figure 38 An isometric view of the shroud for the maintenance turntable;

[0068] Figure 42 Shown Figure 38 A bottom isometric view of the cover of the maintenance turntable;

[0069] Figure 43 Shown Figure 38 An isometric view of the electrostatic plate of the maintenance turntable;

[0070] Figure 44 Shown along Figure 38 The line 44-44 is intercepted Figure 38 A cross-sectional view of the maintenance turntable;

[0071] Figure 45 A device for use with a computer according to the teachings of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1-3 A top view of a third exemplary maintenance carousel for use with a printer;

[0072] Figure 46 Shown Figure 45 Front and top isometric views of the maintenance turntable;

[0073] Figure 47 Shown Figure 45 Front and top isometric views of the maintenance carousel's pallets;

[0074] Figure 48 Shown Figure 45 Front and top isometric views of the absorbent pad of the maintenance turntable;

[0075] Figure 49 Shown Figure 47 Front and top isometric views of a pallet with Figure 48 absorbent pads and Figure 45 The actuator assembly of the maintenance turntable is positioned adjacent thereto;

[0076] Figure 50 Shown Figure 45 A bottom plan view of the protective cover of the maintenance turntable;

[0077] Figure 51 Shown Figure 50Front and top isometric views of the shield;

[0078] Figure 52 Shown Figure 45 A bottom isometric view of the protective cover of the maintenance turntable;

[0079] Figure 53 Shown Figure 50 Isometric view of the hood, in which the Figure 45 Maintenance of the carousel filter and fan assembly; and

[0080] Figure 54 Shown Figure 45 Isometric view of the maintenance turntable with the Figure 52 protective cover.

[0081] While the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the drawings and detailed description presented herein are not intended to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0082] Before describing any embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and arrangement of parts set forth in the following description or shown in the following drawings, which are limited only by the claims that follow this disclosure. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and can be practiced or carried out in various ways. Moreover, it should be understood that the words and terms used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is intended to include the items listed thereafter and their equivalents as well as additional items. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and variations thereof are used broadly and include direct and indirect mounting, connection, support, and coupling. Furthermore, "connected" and "coupled" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

[0083] The following description is presented to enable those skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the present invention. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not intended to be limited to the embodiments illustrated, but rather to the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description will be read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same elements in different drawings have the same reference numerals. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0084] Additionally, while the following discussion may describe features associated with particular devices or embodiments, it should be understood that additional devices and / or features may be used with the described systems and methods and that the devices and features discussed are intended to provide examples of possible embodiments, not limitations.

[0085] First reference Figure 1-3 , an exemplary inkjet printer 100 may have a housing 101 defining a front side 102, a rear side 104, a left side 106, and a right side 108. The housing 101 is provided in the form of a base 110 and a housing cover 112. The base 110 and the housing cover 112 may be removably opened and / or attached to allow access to the internal components of the printer 100 and to allow installation or maintenance of the internal components. The housing cover 112 may be hingedly coupled to the base 110 via a hinge 114 positioned proximate the left side 106 of the printer 100. For example, to open the printer 100 from a closed configuration (see FIG. Figure 1 ) to an open construct (see Figure 3 ), the enclosure cover 112 can be relative to the base 110 along Figure 1 The device rotates about the hinge 114 in the direction indicated by the arrow 116 .

[0086] The base 110 may include a control panel 118 positioned on the front side 102 of the printer 100. The control panel 118 may include a display 120 and one or more buttons 122. The display 120 and the one or more buttons 122 together may provide an interface through which a user may view, control, or initiate one or more settings or operations of the printer 100. The base 110 may also include an exit slot 124 located on the front side 102 of the printer 100, where paper or other print media may be ejected from the printer 100 and retrieved by the user.

[0087] The enclosure cover 112 may include a cover handle 126 that can bias the printer 100 toward the closed configuration. The cover handle 126 can be located on the right side 108 of the printer 100. A user can release the enclosure cover 112 to rotate relative to the base 110 by, for example, applying upward pressure on the cover handle 126. Additionally, a viewing window 128 can be provided on the enclosure cover 112 and can be arranged to provide visibility to a user of one or more internal components of the printer 100.

[0088] like Figure 2 As best shown in FIG, the back side 104 of the printer 100 may include a power switch 130 configured to power the printer 100 on and off, a power port 132 that may facilitate connection between the printer 100 and an external power source (not shown), and one or more ports 134. The one or more ports 134 may include, for example, an Ethernet port, a USB port, and / or any other suitable port configured to connect the printer 100 to an external network or device. The back side 104 may also include an input slot 136 that is configured to receive an external paper source (e.g., a carbon copy pad) or other printable media (not shown) and feed it into the printer 100.

[0089] like Figure 3 As best shown in , converting the printer 100 to an open configuration can expose one or more internal components of the printer 100. The printer 100 can include a carriage 138 that supports a printhead 140 and one or more ink cartridges 142. The printhead 140 can be configured to discharge ink from the one or more ink cartridges 142 onto a desired medium. The carriage 138 can be slidably coupled to a gantry 144 that extends between the left side 106 and the right side 108 of the printer 100. For example, the carriage 138 can be arranged for linear or translational motion along the gantry 144. Thus, when the printer 100 is in use, the carriage 138 can carry the printhead 140 back and forth along the gantry 144 while the printhead 140 applies ink from the one or more ink cartridges 142 to paper or other suitable media (not shown).

[0090] The base 110 can support a maintenance station 146 positioned proximate the right side 108 of the printer 100. The maintenance station 146 can be disposed generally below the printhead 140 and the gantry 144 and can include one or more components configured to facilitate maintenance or servicing of the printhead 140 and / or other components of the printer 100. For example, the maintenance station 146 can include an optional maintenance brush 148 configured to clean the printhead 140 (e.g., remove dried ink therefrom) and a waste ink reservoir 150 arranged to collect waste ink ejected by the printhead 140 during operation of the printer 100. As discussed below, the waste ink reservoir 150 can be configured in conjunction with Figure 4-54 The discussion is provided in the form of a maintenance carousel.

[0091] Although the reference Figure 1-3 A specific exemplary inkjet printer 100 is described, but it should be understood that an inkjet printer 100 used with the maintenance carousel disclosed herein may include or omit additional components known in the art.

[0092] Now go to Figure 4 A maintenance tray 200 may be provided for use with the printer 100 or any other suitable printing device. The maintenance tray 200 may be mounted within the printer 100 or other inkjet printer, or otherwise configured for use with the printer 100 or other inkjet printer, in a manner known in the art. In particular, the maintenance tray 200 may be mounted within the inkjet printer 100 adjacent to or proximate to the area where ink is ejected from the printhead 140.

[0093] The maintenance carousel 200 may include a shroud 202 and a shroud cover 204 disposed above the shroud 202 and removably connected to the shroud 202. The shroud 202 and the shroud cover 204 together may form an enclosure that may hold one or more internal components of the maintenance carousel 200. The actuator assembly 206 may be partially disposed within the enclosure such that at least a portion of the actuator assembly 206 may be exposed above the shroud cover 204, as shown. Figure 4 The enclosure formed by the shroud 202 and the shroud cover 204 can be configured to collect waste ink (eg, waste ink deposited by the printhead 140 ). Thus, the shroud cover 204 can include one or more openings 208 to allow waste ink to be deposited into the maintenance carousel 200 .

[0094] Go to Figure 5 , a tray 210 configured to collect waste ink can be arranged in a housing formed by the shield 202 and the shield cover 204. The tray 210 is provided in the form of a base 212, a side wall 214 and a lip 216. The base 212 can be substantially flat and circular. The side wall 214 extends upward from the base 212 and terminates at the lip 216. The lip 216 can be substantially annular in shape and can extend outward away from the side wall 214. In some cases, the base 212, the side wall 214 and the lip 216 can be formed integrally with each other. In other cases, the base 212 can be connected to and surrounded by the lower periphery 218 of the side wall 214, and the lip 216 can be connected to and extend outward from the upper periphery 220 of the side wall 214.

[0095] like Figure 5 and Figure 10As shown, the plurality of first teeth 221 can circumscribe the upper perimeter 220 of the sidewall 214 (e.g., positioned adjacent to and below the lip 216). The plurality of first teeth 221 can circumscribe the upper perimeter 220 of the sidewall 214 and can be evenly radially spaced apart from one another. Each of the plurality of first teeth 221 can have substantially the same size and can have a substantially triangular or substantially trapezoidal shape. Alternatively, each of the plurality of first teeth 221 can have any suitable shape or size.

[0096] The tray 210 can be formed from a non-absorbent material. In some cases, the tray 210 can be formed from polypropylene, polycarbonate / acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC-ABS), polyoxymethylene (POM), combinations thereof, or other similar materials. In other cases, the tray 210 can be formed from a metal, a ceramic material, or any other suitable material. The tray 210 can be formed from a suitable material because the material can be selected so that the tray 210 is not corroded by the ink collected therein. The tray 210 can collect aqueous ink, and therefore, when the maintenance turntable 200 is in use, a tray 210 formed from a material that absorbs ambient humidity (e.g., nylon) may have difficulty maintaining its shape and may be undesirable.

[0097] In some cases, the base 212 of the tray 210 may include a tray support structure 222 to impart stability and / or structural rigidity to the tray 210 or the entire maintenance carousel 200. Figure 5 As shown, the tray support structure 222 is provided in the form of a plurality of wall members 224 arranged in a grid pattern on at least a portion of the base 212. In other cases, the tray support structure 222 may be provided in any other suitable form or may be omitted.

[0098] like Figure 6As best shown in FIG, the height H of the tray 210 can be defined by the distance between the base 212 and the upper perimeter 220 of the sidewall 214, which is measured in a direction substantially perpendicular to the base 212. The height H can be assigned a value of about 5 millimeters (mm) to about 100 mm, or 5 mm to 100 mm. For example, the height H can be assigned a value of at least about 10 mm (or 10 mm), or at least about 20 mm (or 20 mm), or at least about 30 mm (or 30 mm), or at least about 40 mm (or 40 mm), or at least about 50 mm (or 50 mm), or at least about 60 mm (or 60 mm), or at least about 70 mm (or 70 mm), or at least about 80 mm (or 80 mm), or at least about 90 mm (or 90 mm). In some cases, the height H can be assigned a value of about 35 mm (or 35 mm). The value assigned to the height H can be selected based at least in part on allowable aerosol levels and / or available aerosol mitigation technology. Additionally, the height H can be adjusted based on the specific dimensions of the printer 100 to accommodate the maintenance carousel 200 .

[0099] The hollow receiving post 226 may be integrally formed with the base 212 or may be coupled to and extend upwardly therefrom. The receiving post 226 may be substantially cylindrical or substantially frustoconical in shape. The cavity 228 may be defined by the sidewall 227 of the receiving post 226 and extend at least partially therethrough (see FIG. Figure 6 ). The receiving post 226 can be centrally located relative to the base 212. Figure 7 , the receiving post 226 can be positioned on the base 212 so that it is substantially equidistant from every point along the sidewall 214. The receiving post 226 can be integrally formed with the base 212, or the receiving post 226 can be coupled to the base 212 and extend upward therefrom.

[0100] like Figure 7As best shown in FIG, the radius R of the tray 210 can be defined by the radial distance between the center C of the receiving post 226 and the sidewall 214. The radius R can be assigned a value of about 15 mm to about 200 mm (or 15 mm to 200 mm). For example, the radius R can be assigned a value of at least about 20 mm (or 20 mm), or at least about 30 mm (or 30 mm), or at least about 40 mm (or 40 mm), or at least about 50 mm (or 50 mm), or at least about 60 mm (or 60 mm), or at least about 70 mm (or 70 mm), or at least about 80 mm (or 80 mm), or at least about 90 mm (or 90 mm), or at least about 100 mm (or 100 mm), or at least about 110 mm (or 110 mm), or at least about 120 mm (or 120 mm), or at least about 130 mm (or 130 mm), or at least about 140 mm (or 140 mm), or at least about 150 mm (or 150 mm), or at least about 160 mm (or 160 mm), or at least about 170 mm (or 170 mm), or at least about 180 mm (or 180 mm), or at least about 190 mm (or 190 mm). In some cases, radius R may be assigned a value of approximately 50 mm (or 50 mm). The value assigned to radius R may be selected based at least in part on the layout of the printhead and the space available within the printer.

[0101] Go to again Figure 5 , the tray 210 may include one or more fins 230 configured to prevent an absorbent pad 234 from rotating within the tray 210, the absorbent pad being positioned along the sidewall 214 and extending inwardly from the sidewall (e.g., in the direction of the receiving post 226). The fins 230 may be integrally formed with the sidewall 214 and extend inwardly therefrom. Additionally or alternatively, the fins 230 may be integrally formed with the base 212 and extend upwardly therefrom. Where the base 212 includes a tray support structure 222, the fins 230 may also be integrally formed with the tray support structure 222, or may be coupled to the tray support structure 222 and extend upwardly therefrom. In some cases, each fin 230 may be connected to each of the sidewalls 214 and the tray support structure 222. The fins 230 may generally surround the base 212 and may be radially spaced apart around the lower periphery 218 of the sidewall 214. As Figure 5 and Figure 7 As best shown in FIG, the tray 210 can include four fins 230 disposed at regular ninety degree increments around the lower perimeter 218. However, in other cases, the tray 210 can include any number of fins 230 configured in any suitable arrangement.

[0102] Go to Figure 8 and Figure 9 , the absorbent pad 234 can be designed to be positioned within the tray 210. In some forms, the absorbent pad 234 can be substantially annular in shape and defined by an outer diameter 236 and an inner diameter 238. The outer diameter 236 can correspond to the lower perimeter 218 of the sidewall 214 and be given substantially the same dimensions as the lower perimeter 218 of the sidewall 214. The inner diameter 238 can define a central opening 240. The opening 240 can correspond to the receiving post 226 and be configured to receive the receiving post 226 when the absorbent pad 234 is positioned within the tray 210. One or more slots 242 corresponding to the one or more fins 230 of the tray 210 can be disposed around the outer diameter 236 of the absorbent pad 234 and extend completely therethrough. Figure 9 As shown, the absorbent pad 234 can include four slots 242 that are evenly radially spaced from one another around the outer diameter 236 (e.g., mirroring the arrangement of the fins 230). Thus, when the absorbent pad 234 is positioned within the tray 210, each slot 242 can receive one of the fins 230. In this manner, the fins 230 and slots 242 can prevent the absorbent pad 234 from rotating or moving relative to the tray 210 when the maintenance carousel 200 is in use. In other cases, the absorbent pad 234 can include any number of slots 242. However, the number of slots 242 of the absorbent pad 234 can be equal to the number of fins 230 of the tray 210, and the slots 242 and fins 230 can be arranged in a complementary manner around the outer diameter 236 and the lower periphery 218, respectively.

[0103] Thus, when placed in the tray 210, the absorbent pad 234 can rest on the tray support structure 222. Where the tray support structure 222 is omitted, the absorbent pad 234 can instead rest directly on the base 212. In either case, the position and / or orientation of the absorbent pad 234 relative to the tray 210 can be fixed by the engagement between the fins 230 and the slots 242. In some cases, the absorbent pad 234 can be provided in the form of a felt pad. In other cases, the absorbent pad 234 can be provided in the form of a foam sponge, a fiber pad, a superabsorbent polymer, a combination thereof, or any other similar absorbent material. Thus, the absorbent pad 234 can absorb waste ink deposited in the maintenance turntable 200 when the waste ink is wet. As the waste ink dries and / or the absorbent pad 234 becomes increasingly saturated, the waste ink may begin to accumulate on the absorbent pad 234. Due to the indexing performed by the maintenance turntable 200 (see below), the absorbent pad 234 can absorb the waste ink deposited in the maintenance turntable 200. Figure 37 ), the ink accumulated on the absorbent pad 234 can be given a substantially circular geometry. In this way, the maintenance carousel 200 can prevent or hinder the development of ink accumulating into vertical formations (e.g., stalagmites) that can impede the operation of one or more components of the printer.

[0104] Go to Figure 11 , actuator assembly 206 can be positioned adjacent to and engageable with tray 210. Actuator assembly 206 is provided in the form of a post 246, a one-way clutch 248 positioned along post 246, a gear 250 surrounding the one-way clutch 248 and supported by a gear support 252, and an actuator 254 positioned at the end of post 246. Gear 250 can include a plurality of second teeth 256 projecting outwardly therefrom, which can be imparted with a complementary geometry relative to the plurality of first teeth 221 of tray 210. Thus, gear 250 can be configured to engage the plurality of first teeth 221 and drive tray 210 to rotate. In some cases, gear 250 can be provided in the form of a polyoxymethylene (POM) material to provide a desired level of friction during engagement between the plurality of first teeth 221 and the plurality of second teeth 256. In other cases, gear 250 can be formed from any suitable material.

[0105] like Figure 12 , the post 246 is provided in the form of a body 257 having a first end 258 and a second end 260 opposite the first end 258. A recess 262 can be positioned along the post 246 between the first end 258 and the second end 260 and can be positioned closer to the second end 260 than to the first end 258. However, in other cases, the recess 262 can be positioned at any suitable location on the body 257.

[0106] The body 257 of the post 246 is defined by a lower first section 264 located between the groove 262 and the first end 258, and an upper second section 266 located between the groove 262 and the second end 260. The first section 264 can be substantially cylindrical in shape. The second section 266 can include a cylindrical portion 268 proximate the groove 262 and a stepped notched portion 270 proximate the second end 260. The cylindrical portion 268 can be substantially cylindrical in shape and can be provided with substantially the same characteristics as the first section 264. The notched portion 270 can also be provided with substantially the same cylindrical structure as the first section 264 and the cylindrical portion 268, except that the notched portion 270 can have a portion of the cylindrical structure that has been "chopped off." The notched portion 270 can include a vertical wall 272 that is provided in the form of a substantially smooth and / or flat surface and extends in a direction substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis A of the post 246. The notched portion 270 can also include a ridge 274 that abuts the vertical wall 272. The ridges 274 may be provided in the form of a substantially flat or smooth surface that extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis A. However, in other cases, the notched portion 270 may be imparted with any suitable shape or configuration.

[0107] Now go to Figure 13, a washer 276 can be mounted on the post 246 at the groove 262, the washer being designed to reduce stress applied to the actuator assembly 206 or to more evenly distribute the force when the maintenance carousel 200 is in use. The washer 276 can have a substantially annular shape having a substantially circular outer edge 278 and a substantially circular central opening 280. The washer 276 can include an entry slot 282 that forms an opening from the central opening 280 to the outer edge 278. In some cases, one or more cutouts 284 can be formed in the washer 276 adjacent to the central opening 280. In some cases, the washer 276 includes two cutouts 284. In other cases, the washer 276 can include any number of cutouts 284, or the cutouts 284 can be omitted.

[0108] like Figure 14 As shown, a washer 276 may be mounted or positioned along the post 246 at the recess 262. The washer 276 may be pressed into the recess so that the entry slot 282 receives the post 246. The washer 276 may thus be coupled to the post 246 by, for example, a press fit. A one-way clutch 248 may be positioned along the first section 264 of the post 246 and may be located adjacent to the washer 276 and the recess 262. The one-way clutch 248 may be provided in the form of an annular cylinder. The one-way clutch 248 may include an inner diameter 286 and an outer diameter 288. The inner diameter 286 may have substantially the same structure and / or dimensions as the first section 264 so that the post 246 may be inserted therein. The one-way clutch 248 may be configured to allow rotation in one direction and prevent rotation in the opposite direction. The one-way clutch 248 may allow rotation in a clockwise direction and prevent rotation in a counterclockwise direction, or vice versa.

[0109] Go to Figure 15 , the gear 250 can be positioned on top of the gear support 252. The gear 250 and the gear support 252 can be formed integrally with each other, or the gear 250 can be coupled to the gear support 252. The gear support 252 is provided in the form of a member 289 having a body portion 290 and a neck portion 292. The gear 250, the body portion 290, and the neck portion 292 can each be substantially annular in shape and can be provided in the form of a coaxial structure (e.g., when the actuator assembly 206 is assembled, the gear 250 and the gear support 252 can each be formed around the axis A of the post 246, see Figure 17 ). The gear 250 and the gear support 252 together may constitute a gear unit 294.

[0110] Gear unit 294 may include a first end 296, a second end 298, and a passage 300 extending therebetween. Passage 300 may include a lower passage 302 and an upper passage 304. Lower passage 302 may extend from first end 296 of gear unit 294, through the entire body portion 290, and through at least a portion of neck 292. Lower passage 302 may be configured as a substantially cylindrical conduit configured to receive post 246. Upper passage 304 may extend from second end 298 of gear unit 294, through the entire gear 250, and through at least a portion of neck 292, until the upper and lower passages 304 and 302 meet. Upper passage 304 may also be configured as a substantially cylindrical conduit. However, upper passage 304 may be configured to receive one-way clutch 248. The inner diameter of upper passage 304 may correspond to or be substantially equal to outer diameter 288 of one-way clutch 248. In some cases, the gear 250 may include one or more recesses 306 positioned at the second end 298 of the gear unit 294. Figure 16 As best shown in FIG, gear 250 may include three annular recesses 306 disposed radially around upper channel 304. However, in other cases, gear 250 may include any number of recesses 306, which may be arranged in any suitable configuration. Alternatively, in some cases, recesses 306 may be omitted.

[0111] Now go to Figure 17 and Figure 18 , the channel 300 can receive the post 246 and the one-way clutch 248. The gear unit 294, the post 246, and the one-way clutch 248 can be arranged such that the lower channel 302 receives a portion of the first segment 264 of the post 246, and the upper channel 304 receives the one-way clutch 248 (except for the portion of the first segment 264 surrounded by the one-way clutch 248). Thus, the one-way clutch 248 and the gear unit 294 can be configured such that movement or rotation of the one-way clutch 248 can be converted into responsive movement or rotation of the gear unit 294. The one-way clutch 248 can be pressed into the upper channel 304 (for example, the one-way clutch 248 can be pressed into the gear 250 and a portion of the neck 292), forming a press fit between the one-way clutch 248 and the gear unit 294. The press fit can allow the one-way clutch 248 and the gear unit 294 to move or rotate as a unit. With the one-way clutch 248 inhibiting rotation in the counterclockwise direction, the gear unit 294 may be similarly prevented from rotating in the counterclockwise direction.

[0112] Go to Figure 19, the actuator 254 can be provided in the form of a base member 308, a hook 310, and an arm 312. The hook 310 can be integrally formed with the base member 308, or the hook 310 can be coupled to the base member 308 and extend outward therefrom. The hook 310 can include a shank 314 connected to the base member 308, a point 316, and a bend 318 extending between the shank 314 and the point 316. The bend 318 can be oriented substantially perpendicular to each of the shank 314 and the point 316, and the point 316 can extend rearward from the bend 318 in the direction of the base member 308 (e.g., the point 316 can be substantially parallel to the shank 314). Thus, a gap 320 can be formed as an opening between the shank 314 and the point 316. The gap 320 can be configured to capture, for example, a hook-shaped object or a piece of material.

[0113] The arm 312 may be integrally formed with the base member 308, or the arm 312 may be coupled to the base member and extend upwardly therefrom. The base member 308 and the hook 310 may be substantially coplanar. The arm 312 may include an extension 322 that extends upwardly from the base member 308 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane occupied by the base member 308 and the hook 310. The arm 312 may include a trigger 324 that is arranged to be engaged by one or more components of the printer 100 (e.g., the bracket 138). The trigger 324 may be integrally formed with the extension 322, or the trigger 324 may be coupled to the extension 322 and extend upwardly therefrom. In some cases, the arm 312 may include a connector 326 positioned between and connecting the extension 322 and the trigger 324. Figure 19 As shown, the connector 326 is provided in the form of a straight member extending at an angle between the extension 322 and the trigger 324. In other cases, the connector 326 can be omitted, and the trigger 324 can be directly connected to the extension 322. In other cases, the arm 312 can be provided as a single component, the upper end of which can perform the function of the trigger 324, or the actuator 254 can be provided in any other suitable form. The size and height of the actuator 254 can be adjusted based on the size of the printer 100 and the precise location of the junction between the actuator 254 and the printer 100.

[0114] like Figure 20 As best shown in FIG, the socket 328 can define an opening of the base member 308 and can be configured to receive the notched portion 270 of the post 246. In some cases, the socket 328 can define a passage extending through the base member 308 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane occupied by the base member 308 and the hook 310. The socket 328 can be given a geometry that is substantially a mirror image of the geometry of the notched portion 270 of the post 246. Figure 19As shown, the socket 328 can be given a substantially D-shaped geometry. The curved portion 330 of the socket 328 can correspond to the generally cylindrical shape of the cylindrical portion 268 of the second segment 266, and the straight portion 332 of the socket 328 can correspond to the area of ​​the notched portion 270 that has been "chopped off" compared to the cylindrical portion 268. However, in other cases, the socket 328 can be given any suitable shape or structure, so long as the socket 328 is configured to receive the notched portion 270 of the post 246. Thus, the notched portion 270 can be inserted into the socket 328 (e.g., creating a press fit between the actuator 254 and the post 246) so that the actuator 254 can be restricted or otherwise limited in rotational movement relative to the post 246. In other words, this engagement between the socket 328 and the notched portion 270 can cause the post 246 to rotate in response to any rotation of the actuator 254. In other cases, engagement between the post 246 and the actuator 254 may be achieved by any other means known in the art (e.g., by providing each of the post 246 and the actuator 254 with complementary keying features, by fastening the post 246 and the actuator 254 together, etc.).

[0115] The actuator 254 can be provided in the form of a rigid material capable of handling a press fit. In some cases, the actuator 254 can be provided in the form of polyetherimide (PEI). In other cases, the actuator 254 can be provided in the form of polycarbonate / acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (PC-ABS) or any other suitable material.

[0116] like Figure 21 As best shown in FIG, in some cases, the base member 308 can include a first recessed slot 334 and the arm 312 can include a second recessed slot 336. The first recessed slot 334 can be positioned on an underbelly 338 of the base member 308. The first recessed slot can extend at least partially between the socket 328 and the distal end 340 of the base member 308. The second recessed slot can extend between the underbelly 338 of the base member 308 and the apex 342 of the arm 312. The second recessed slot can extend linearly along each of the extension 322, the connector 326, and the trigger 324. In other cases, the first and second recessed slots 334, 336 can be provided in any other suitable arrangement, or the first and second recessed slots 334, 336 can be omitted.

[0117] Steering Figure 22, the actuator assembly 206 can be positioned adjacent to the tray 210 so that the gear 250 can be aligned with and engaged with the plurality of first teeth 221. Thus, rotation of the gear 250 is converted into rotation of the tray 210. As described above, due to the press fit between the one-way clutch 248 and the upper channel 304 of the gear unit 294, the rotation of the gear 250 can be associated with (e.g., caused by) the rotation of the post 246. Additionally, due to the engagement between the socket 328 and the notched portion 270 of the post 246, the rotation of the post 246 can be associated with (e.g., caused by) the rotation of the actuator 254. Thus, the actuator assembly 206 can be configured such that rotation of the actuator 254 can ultimately drive the rotation of the tray 210. In other cases, the maintenance turntable 200 can drive the tray to rotate by other means known in the art (e.g., by a moving belt, friction wheels, a motor, etc.).

[0118] When the maintenance turntable 200 is installed in a printer (e.g. Figure 1-3 When the maintenance dial 200 is in the printer 100 (or any other suitable printing device), the maintenance dial 200 can be disposed substantially below the operating components of the printer (e.g., the carriage 138, the print head 140, and the stage 144). However, the maintenance dial 200 can be positioned and configured so that at least the trigger 324 of the actuator 254 can be extended upwardly so that the maintenance dial interrupts the motion path of one or more components of the printer. In this manner, the actuator 254 can be arranged to be struck by one or more components of the printer during use (e.g., the actuator 254 can be struck by the carriage 138 at the distal end of its motion path along the stage 144). Such an impact can apply a force to the actuator 254 that can tend to cause the actuator 254 to move along the Figure 22 344. However, actuator 254 may be prevented from translational movement due to its connection to the rest of actuator assembly 206 and / or its position within maintenance carousel 200. Thus, force applied to actuator 254 may cause rotational rather than translational motion, thereby driving rotation of post 246, gear unit 294, and ultimately, tray 210.

[0119] Go to Figure 23 and Figure 24, the shield 202 can include a platform 346 configured to receive and support each of the actuator assembly 206 and the tray 210. The platform 346 can be substantially circular or teardrop-shaped in shape and include an upwardly extending outer wall 348. The outer wall 348 can be imparted with a geometry that substantially mirrors the geometry of the sidewall 214 of the tray 210. The shield 202 can include a protruding area 350 that can interrupt or distort the substantially circular shape of the platform 346 and the outer wall 348 in an area proximate the protruding area 350. In some cases, the protruding area 350 can be positioned and configured to accommodate the actuator assembly 206 when the maintenance carousel 200 is fully assembled.

[0120] The shroud 202 may include one or more mounting tabs 352 that define the outer wall 348 and extend outwardly therefrom. The mounting tabs 352 include through-holes designed to receive screws or other fastening mechanisms. The mounting tabs 352 may be configured to facilitate connection or coupling between the maintenance dial 200 and a printer (e.g., printer 100 or any other suitable printing device). Figure 23 As shown, the shroud 202 may include three mounting tabs 352 radially disposed about the outer wall 348. However, in other cases, the shroud 202 may include any number of mounting tabs 352 arranged in any suitable configuration.

[0121] The shroud 202 may include one or more attachment tabs 354 positioned along and projecting outwardly from the outer wall 348. The attachment tabs 354 may be configured to facilitate connection or coupling between the shroud 202 and the shroud cover 204 when the maintenance carousel 200 is fully assembled. In some aspects, the shroud 202 may include two attachment tabs 354 positioned opposite each other along the outer wall 348. However, in other cases, the shroud 202 may include any number of attachment tabs 352 arranged in any suitable configuration.

[0122] The shield 202 may also include one or more receiving members 356 positioned along and projecting outwardly from the outer wall 348. Similar to the connecting protrusions 354, the receiving members 356 may be configured to facilitate connection or coupling between the shield 202 and the shield cover 204 when the maintenance carousel 200 is fully assembled. Additionally, the receiving members 356 may help ensure that the shield 202 and the shield cover 204 are properly oriented relative to each other when they are coupled. In some cases, the shield 202 may include two receiving members 356 positioned opposite each other along the outer wall 348. However, in other cases, the shield 202 may include any number of receiving members 356 arranged in any suitable configuration.

[0123] Still refer to Figure 23 and Figure 24, the shield 202 may include one or more flexible tabs 358 formed in the platform 346. The flexible tabs 358 may be configured to apply friction to the tray 210 (e.g., to slow or partially hinder rotation of the tray 210 relative to the shield 202). In some cases, the shield 202 may include three flexible tabs 358 positioned proximate the outer wall 348, oriented in a similar manner relative to each other, and radially spaced apart from each other. However, in other cases, the shield 202 may include any number of flexible tabs 358 arranged in any suitable configuration. The shield 202 and the tray 210 may be configured such that the coefficient of friction between the shield 202 and the tray 210 is between about 0.2 and about 0.5 when the maintenance carousel 200 is in use.

[0124] The shield 202 may also include one or more elongated fins 360 positioned along the outer wall 348 and projecting inwardly therefrom. The fins 360 may be configured to provide support or prevent accidental movement of the tray 210 when the maintenance carousel 200 is in use. The fins 360 may surround and may contact the side walls 214 of the tray 210 when the tray 210 and the shield 202 are engaged with each other. The fins 360 may be integrally formed with the outer wall 348, or the fins 360 may be coupled to the outer wall 348 and extend inwardly therefrom. Additionally, or alternatively, the fins 360 may be integrally formed with the platform 346, or the fins 360 may be coupled to the platform 346 and extend upwardly therefrom. Figure 23 As shown, the shroud 202 may include a total of fifteen fins 360, including three groups of five fins 360, with each grouping positioned between two adjacent flexible tabs 358. However, in other cases, the shroud 202 may include any number of fins 360 arranged in any suitable configuration.

[0125] The platform 346 can support an actuator assembly well 362 and a center post 364. When the maintenance carousel 200 is assembled, the actuator assembly well 362 can be configured to support the actuator assembly 206, and the center post 364 can be configured to support the tray 210 (e.g., the center post 364 can be arranged to align with and be received by the receiving post 226). The actuator assembly well 362 can be disposed in the protruding area 350 and can be positioned proximate to the outer wall 348. In some cases, one or more connector walls 366 can extend between the actuator assembly well 362 and the outer wall 348, thereby coupling the actuator assembly well 362 and the outer wall 348 and providing additional structural stability to the actuator assembly well 362. The shroud 202 can include two connector walls 366 extending between the actuator assembly well 362 and the outer wall 348. In other cases, the shroud 202 can include any number of connector walls 366, or can omit connector walls 366. Where connector wall 366 is omitted, actuator assembly well 362 may be integrally formed with platform 346 , or actuator assembly well 362 may be coupled to platform 346 and extend upwardly therefrom.

[0126] The center post 364 can be disposed at a central location on the platform 346 and can be positioned substantially equidistant from every point along the outer wall 348. However, the center post 364 can be positioned at a greater distance from points along the portion of the outer wall 348 in the protruding region 350 than the distance between the center post 364 and points along the rest of the outer wall 348. The center post 364 can be configured such that when it is received by the receiving post 226 of the tray 210, the tray 210 is supported for rotation about the center post 364 within the shroud 202.

[0127] like Figure 25 As best shown in FIG, actuator assembly well 362 may include a shaft 368 defining a passage 370 therethrough. Shaft 368 may be substantially cylindrical or substantially frustoconical in shape. Actuator assembly well 362 may include a ledge 372 that may divide passage 370 into a lower chamber 374 and an upper chamber 376. Lower chamber 374 may be configured to receive post 246 of actuator assembly 206, while upper chamber 376 may be configured to receive at least a portion of body portion 290 of gear unit 294. Lower chamber 374 may be smaller than upper chamber 376. Lower chamber 374 may be provided in the form of a cylindrical opening that may be sized to mirror or be substantially equal to the dimensions of post 246. Upper chamber 376 may be provided in the form of a cylindrical opening that may be sized to mirror or be substantially equal to the dimensions of body portion 290. In other cases, the shaft 368 , the lower chamber 374 , and the upper chamber 376 may be provided with any suitable shape or structure, so long as the lower chamber 374 and the upper chamber 376 are configured to receive the post 246 and the body portion 290 , respectively.

[0128] like Figure 26 As best shown in , each flexible tab 358 can be substantially linear in shape and can include a first integral end 378 and a second separated end 380. Each flexible tab 358 can include a slat 382 extending outwardly from the first integral end 378 and terminating at the second separated end 380. The slat 382 also includes a ridge 384 positioned on the slat 382 at the second separated end 380 and extending upwardly therefrom. The ridge 384 can be formed integrally with the slat 382, ​​or the ridge 384 can be connected to the slat 382 and extend upwardly therefrom. The flexible tab 358 can also include a moat 386 at least partially surrounding the slat 382. The moat 386 can be provided in the form of a linear channel surrounding at least a portion of the slat 382. As shown Figure 26 As shown, the moat 386 can surround the slats 382 on three sides, but does not extend along the first integral end portion 378. The moat 386 can allow the slats 382 to flex upward or downward relative to the platform 346 of the shield 202. The ridge 384 can be configured to contact the base 212 of the tray 210 when the tray 210 is positioned within the shield 202 (see FIG. Figure 27 Thus, the flexible tabs 358 can apply friction to the base 212 via the ridges 384 as the tray 210 rotates relative to the shroud 202 .

[0129] like Figure 27 and Figure 28 As best shown in FIG, when the tray 210 is disposed within the shield 202, the central post 364 can be enclosed within the receiving post 226. Each of the central post 364 and the receiving post 226 can be substantially cylindrical, conical, or frusto-conical in shape. However, in other cases, the central post 364 and the receiving post 226 can have any suitable shape or structure, so long as the receiving post 226 is configured to receive the central post 364. The absorbent pad 234 can rest on top of the tray support structure 222, such that the tray support structure 222 is disposed between the base 212 of the tray 210 and the absorbent pad 234.

[0130] Go to Figure 29 , the shield cover 204 can be given a geometry that mirrors or is substantially identical to the geometry of the shield 202. For example, the shield cover 204 can be substantially circular in shape, except that the shield cover 204 can include a protruding area 388 that corresponds to the protruding area 350 of the shield 202. The shield cover 204 can include a body 390 and a peripheral edge 392 surrounding the body 390. One or more latches 394 and one or more pin members 396 can be positioned around the peripheral edge 392. Figure 29As shown, the shroud cover 204 can include two latches 394 positioned in opposing positions along the peripheral edge 392 and two pin members 396 positioned in opposing positions along the peripheral edge 392. The positions of the latches 394 and the pin members 396 along the peripheral edge 392 can correspond to and align with the positions of the connecting protrusion 354 and the receiving member 356, respectively, along the outer wall 348 of the shroud 202. Thus, the latches 394 and the pin members 396 can facilitate releasable attachment between the shroud 202 and the shroud cover 204. In other cases, the shroud cover 204 can include any number of latches 394 and pin members 396, and the latches 394 and pin members 396 can be configured in any suitable arrangement, so long as the connecting protrusion 354 and the receiving member 356 are positioned to receive the latches 394 and the pin members 396, respectively.

[0131] like Figure 30 , the shroud cover 204 may include a rim 398 positioned along the peripheral edge 392. The rim 398 may be integrally formed with the body 390 of the shroud cover 204, or the rim 398 may be coupled to the body 390 along the peripheral edge 392 and extend downwardly therefrom. In some cases, the rim 398 may only partially surround the body 390, such that the rim 398 may be discontinuous in that one or more gaps 400 may be provided along the peripheral edge 392 and may interrupt the rim 398.

[0132] The body 390 of the shield cover 204 also includes a housing 402 having a top plate 404 with one or more openings 208 extending therethrough. Figure 30 As shown, two linear openings 208 can extend completely through the top plate 404. The openings 208 can provide one or more windows through which waste ink can enter the maintenance turntable 200. The maintenance turntable 200 can be arranged in an inkjet printer (e.g., printer 100) so that the openings 208 are aligned with a maintenance position of a printhead (e.g., printhead 160) located at a distal end of the printhead's motion path (e.g., along the stage 144). Thus, when the printhead reaches the maintenance position, the printhead can eject waste ink through the openings 208 so that the waste ink can be collected by the maintenance turntable 200 (e.g., in the tray 210).

[0133] like Figure 31As best shown in FIG, the shroud cover 204 may further include a shroud support structure 406 disposed on an underside 408 thereof. The shroud support structure 406 may increase the stability and / or structural rigidity of the shroud cover 204 and / or the entire maintenance carousel 200. The shroud support structure 406 may be provided in a form substantially similar to the tray support structure 222. The shroud support structure 406 may be provided in the form of a plurality of wall members 410 arranged in a grid pattern on at least a portion of the underside 408 of the body 390. Circular sidewalls 412 extend downwardly from the underside 408 of the body 390. The sidewalls 412 may provide further stability and / or structural rigidity to the shroud cover 204.

[0134] 388. The hole 414 can be formed in the body 390 proximate the protruding area 388. The hole 414 can extend linearly through a substantially cylindrical collar 416 connected to the underside 408 of the body 390 and extending downwardly therefrom. The hole 414 can be configured to allow at least a portion of the actuator assembly 206 to appear above the shroud cover 204 when the maintenance carousel is assembled. In some aspects, the hole 414 and the collar 416 can be arranged to align with the actuator assembly well 362 and can be configured to receive the cylindrical portion 268 of the second segment 266 of the post 246. Thus, when the maintenance carousel 200 is assembled, the notched portion 270 of the second segment 266 (which can be loaded into the socket 328, e.g., by press-fit engagement with the base member 308 of the actuator 254) and the actuator 254 can be positioned above the body 390 of the shroud cover 204 (see FIG. 2 ). Figure 35 ).

[0135] The shield 202 and the shield cover 204 can each be formed from a plastic material, including polypropylene, nylon, polycarbonate / acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC-ABS), polyoxymethylene (POM), combinations thereof, or any other suitable material. In some cases, the shield 202 and the shield cover 204 can be formed from a metal or ceramic material. The material of the shield 202 can be selected so that the flexible tabs 358 can generate a desired drag force on the tray 210 (e.g., apply a desired level of friction thereto). In addition, the shield 202 can be configured so that the center support 364 can apply a moderate or low amount of friction to the tray 210 via the receiving posts 226.

[0136] While the connecting tabs 354, receiving members 356, latches 394, and pin members 396 may facilitate attachment between the shroud 202 and the shroud cover 204, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the shroud cover 204 may be attached to the shroud 202 by any other suitable mechanism or mechanisms when the maintenance carousel 200 is assembled.

[0137] like Figure 32As best shown in FIG, each connecting tab 354 extending outward from the shroud 202 may include a first end 418, a second end 420, and a substantially vertical face 422 extending therebetween. Two retaining walls 424 are disposed on either side of the face 422. The retaining walls 424 may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the face 422 and may project outward from the outer wall 348 such that they protrude beyond the face 422. A shelf 426 may be disposed below the face 422 at the second end 420 of the connecting tab 354. The shelf 426 may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the face 422 and may extend between the face 422 and the outer wall 348.

[0138] like Figure 33 As best shown in FIG, each receiving member 356 can be provided in the form of a protrusion 428 extending outwardly from the outer wall 348 of the shroud 202. A receiving portion 430 can be formed in the protrusion 428. In some cases, the protrusion 428 can be substantially semicircular, and the receiving portion 430 can be substantially cylindrical in shape. In other cases, the receiving member 356 can be provided in any suitable form, so long as the receiving member 356 is positioned and configured to receive the pin member 396 of the shroud cover 204.

[0139] like Figure 34 and Figure 35 As best shown in FIG, each latch 394 can include a panel 432 and a latch member 434 connected to the panel 432 at its distal end 436. The proximal end 438 of the panel 432 can be connected to either or both of the body 390 and the rim 398 of the shield cover 204 and extend downwardly therefrom. The latch member 434 can protrude inwardly (e.g., in the direction of the body 390) from the distal end 436 of the panel 432. The panel 432 of the latch 394 and the face 422 of the connecting protrusion 354 can be provided in the form of mating surfaces. When the shield cover 204 is coupled to the shield 202, the latch 394 can be received by the connecting protrusion 354 so that the panel can rest flush against the face 422. In this position, the two sides of the latch 394 can be surrounded by the retaining walls 424 of the connecting protrusion 354. Therefore, lateral movement of the latch 394 relative to the connecting protrusion 354 can be prevented. Likewise, the latch member 434 can extend below the connecting tab 354 and can engage the underside 408 of the connecting tab 354. The engagement between the latch member 434 and the connecting tab 354 can prevent the shroud cover 204 from being inadvertently lifted from the shroud 202.

[0140] Also like Figure 34As shown, each pin member 396 may include a protrusion 440 extending outward from the body 390 of the shroud cover 204. A pin 442 may be integrally formed with the protrusion 440, or the pin 442 may be coupled to the protrusion 440 and extend downward therefrom. The structure of the pin member 396 may complement the structure of the receiving member 356. In some cases, the protrusion 440 may be substantially semicircular in shape (e.g., mirroring the shape of the protrusion 428 of the receiving member 356), and the pin 442 may be provided in the form of a cylindrical peg configured to align with and be received by the receptacle 430 of the receiving member 356. In some cases, the pin 442 may fit within the receptacle 430 (e.g., via a press fit), thereby restricting both vertical and lateral movement of the shroud cover 204 relative to the shroud 202. In other cases, the pin 442 may simply rest within the receptacle 430, thereby restricting only lateral movement of the shroud cover 204 relative to the shroud 202.

[0141] like Figure 35 , when the maintenance carousel 200 is assembled, the pin member 396 can be aligned with and received by the receiving member 356, and the latch 394 can be aligned with and engaged with the connecting protrusion 354. The protruding area 388 of the shroud cover can be aligned with the protruding area 350 of the shroud 202, so that the hole 414 can be disposed above the actuator assembly well 362. Thus, the hole 414 can be positioned to allow at least a portion of the actuator assembly 206 to pass therethrough. The notched portion 270 of the post 246 can extend through the hole 414, and the actuator 254 can be pressed onto the post 246 via the socket 328, so that the underbelly 338 of the base member 308 can rest against the body 390 of the shroud cover 204.

[0142] The stop 444 and anchor 446 can be positioned on the shroud cover 204 proximate the aperture 414 and can be arranged to engage the actuator 254 when the maintenance carousel 200 is in use. In some cases, the stop 444 can be provided in the form of a T-shaped protrusion extending upwardly from the body 390 of the shroud cover 204. The stop 444 can be configured to engage the actuator 254 when the maintenance carousel 200 is in use. Figure 35 and 36 ) when abutting at least a portion of the base member 308.

[0143] While the stop 444 may be arranged to engage the base member 308 of the actuator 254, the anchor 446 may be arranged to engage the hook 310. The anchor 446 may be provided in the form of an angled member that extends upwardly from the body 390 of the shroud cover 204 and away from the actuator 254. The anchor 446 may be positioned proximate to the protruding region 388. However, the anchor 446 may be arranged at a distance from the actuator 254 such that the spring 448 may extend between the actuator 254 and the anchor 446. Figure 36 As best shown in , a first end 450 of the spring 448 can be connected to or engaged with the hook 310 of the actuator 254 , and a second end 452 of the spring 448 can be connected to or engaged with the anchor 446 .

[0144] In this way, the spring 448 can apply a "return" force to the actuator 254. When the maintenance carousel 200 is in use, a force can be applied to the actuator 254, thereby rotating the hook 310 away from the anchor 446 (e.g., in the direction indicated by arrow 344). Thus, the increased tension on the spring 448 can apply a return force to the actuator 254 that opposes the rotation in the direction of arrow 344 and tends instead to return the actuator 254 to the idle position. The stop 444 can limit the ability of the spring 448 to rotate the actuator 254 (e.g., by preventing the spring 448 from pulling the actuator 254 beyond the idle position).

[0145] like Figure 37 As best shown in FIG. 2 , the maintenance dial 200 may be configured to allow the bracket 490 to engage the actuator 254 when the printer device is in use. Figure 37 The bracket 490 may correspond to the bracket 138 of the printer 100 (see Figure 3 ), or the carriage 490 may correspond to any other component or portion of a printing device that is configured to facilitate translational movement of one or more print heads on a printable medium. The carriage 490 may be slidably supported by the chassis 492 and may be configured to move along a path parallel to the Figure 37 The path of arrow 494 moves across chassis 492.

[0146] As mentioned above Figure 30 As described above, the maintenance position of one or more print heads (not shown) supported by the carriage 490 may correspond to the outermost position of the carriage 490 along the chassis 492. When the carriage 490 reaches or contacts a wall stop 496 located at a first end 498 of the chassis 492, further translational movement of the carriage 490 may be prevented. When the carriage 490 reaches the wall stop 496, the one or more print heads supported by the carriage 490 may occupy the maintenance position (e.g., may be arranged to be aligned with the wall stop 496). Figure 37The waste ink is aligned with one or more openings 208 (not shown) and ejected into the maintenance turntable 200).

[0147] At the same time, when the bracket 490 reaches the wall stop 496, the bumper 500 provided on the bracket 490 may impact the actuator 254 and engage the actuator assembly 206. Figure 37 As shown, the bumper 500 is provided in the form of a portion or area of ​​the carriage 490 that is positioned to impact or engage the actuator 254 when the chassis 492 approaches the first end 498. However, in other cases, the bumper 500 can be provided in any other suitable form (e.g., as a separate component coupled to the carriage 490), so long as the bumper 500 is configured to engage the actuator 254 when one or more printheads reach the maintenance position. The bumper 500 can impact the trigger 324 of the actuator 254 and cause the actuator 254 to move along the maintenance position. Figure 37 The device rotates in the direction of arrow 502 (eg, a first rotational direction).

[0148] Rotation of the actuator 254 in a first direction moves the hook 310 away from the anchor 446 (see FIG. Figure 35 ), thereby increasing the tension of the spring 448. The spring 448 can be arranged to rotate the actuator 254 in a direction opposite to the direction of arrow 502 (e.g., a second rotational direction). Therefore, the spring 448 can apply a return force to the actuator 254. When the bracket 490 moves away from the actuator 254 along the chassis 492, the return force (e.g., the return force applied by the spring 448 to the hook 310) can rotate the actuator 254 back to its idle position. The return rotation can be terminated when the stop 444 contacts the base member 308 of the actuator 254 and thereby resists the return force of the spring 448. As described above with reference Figure 19 As described above, the rotation of the actuator 254 can drive the responsive rotation of the post 246 through the engagement between the notched portion 270 and the socket 328. In turn, the rotation of the post 246 can drive the rotation of the one-way clutch 248 and the gear unit 294. However, the one-way clutch 248 can be configured to allow the gear unit 294 to rotate in the first rotational direction of the actuator 254, but prohibit the gear unit 294 from rotating in the second rotational direction of the actuator 254 (e.g., during the period when the actuator 254 returns to the idle position).

[0149] When the maintenance turntable 200 is used with a printer, it can be repeatedly engaged by the printer (e.g., via the buffer 500) whenever it is desired that one or more printheads eject waste ink to maintain print quality. Each such engagement can initiate an indexing sequence that includes (1) a first step during which rotation of the actuator 254 in a first direction is driven by a carriage or other component of the printer (e.g., the buffer 500) that moves laterally relative to the print media during printing, (2) a second step during which one or more printheads (e.g., the printhead 140) eject waste ink into the maintenance turntable 200 via one or more openings 208, and (3) a third step during which rotation of the actuator 254 in the second direction is driven by the spring 448 until the actuator 254 returns to its idle position. Figure 37 As shown, the indexing sequence may begin when the bracket 490 approaches the first end 498 of the chassis 492 and the bumper 500 strikes the actuator 254. When the base member 308 returns to and contacts the stop 444 (see FIG. Figure 35 ), the indexing sequence may terminate. Due to the unidirectional action of one-way clutch 248, the first step of the indexing sequence may result in gear 250 driving rotation (e.g., indexing) of tray 210, while tray 210 may remain stationary during the third step while actuator 254 returns to the idle position.

[0150] In this way, the gear 250 can cause the tray 210 to index (e.g., rotate in a stepwise manner) each time waste ink is deposited. Due to this indexing, the point within the tray 210 where waste ink is collected (e.g., the point along the absorbent pad 234 where waste ink is deposited) can change. The indexing of the tray 210 can cause waste ink to accumulate in a circular pattern, thereby reducing the likelihood that waste ink will accumulate in the form of substantially vertical formations (e.g., stalagmites), which can cause malfunctions or shorten the life of the printer. In addition, in some cases, the user may not need to replace the absorbent pad 234 or any other components of the maintenance turntable 200, thereby providing increased convenience and lower costs for the consumer.

[0151] Indexing of the tray 210 may also be aided by the flexible tabs 358, which may be moved as described above with reference to FIG. Figure 26 The depicted ridges 384 apply friction to the tray 210. The friction applied by the flexible tabs 358 can oppose the rotation of the tray 210 in response to the rotation of the gear 250. Without this friction, the primary force opposing the rotation of the tray 210 can be the minimal amount of friction between the center post 364 of the shroud and the receiving post 226 of the tray 210. With little to no resistance, the rotation of the tray 210 can be directly coupled to the rotation of the gear 250, thereby eliminating or reducing indexing capability.

[0152] In some cases, the maintenance carousel 200 can be configured so that the tray 210 undergoes one complete rotation approximately every sixty print jobs. In other cases, the maintenance carousel 200 can be configured to provide any other desired rotation rate of the tray 210.

[0153] Go to Figures 38 to 44 , depicts another embodiment of a maintenance carousel 600, which may be provided in substantially the same form as the maintenance carousel 200, except that the maintenance carousel 600 may include two electrostatic plates 601a, 601b configured to generate an electromagnetic field that may assist the maintenance carousel 600 in collecting waste ink. In describing the maintenance carousel 600, like names and like reference numerals are used to denote like components as the maintenance carousel 200 (i.e., components of the maintenance carousel 600 and components of the maintenance carousel 200 that are labeled with similar or identical names and reference numerals that differ by exactly 400 may be substantially similar in form and function).

[0154] like Figure 38 As best shown in , the maintenance carousel 600 may include a shroud 602 and a shroud cover 604 provided in a form substantially similar to the shroud 202 and shroud cover 204 of the maintenance carousel 200. The shroud cover 604 may include one or more latches 794 and one or more pin members 796 disposed about a peripheral edge 792 thereof and extending downwardly therefrom. The shroud 602 may include one or more connecting protrusions 754 and one or more receiving members 756 disposed about an outer wall thereof and extending outwardly therefrom. The latches 794 and the pin members 796 may be arranged to align with and be received by the connecting protrusions 754 and the receiving members 756, respectively, and may facilitate coupling between the shroud 602 and the shroud cover 604, as described above with reference to Figures 32-34 described.

[0155] Likewise, when the shroud 602 and the shroud cover 604 are properly aligned and coupled together, the protruding area 788 of the shroud cover 604 can correspond to the protruding area 750 of the shroud 602. The shroud 602 can also include one or more mounting tabs 752 disposed along and extending outwardly from the outer wall 748. The mounting tabs 752 can be configured to facilitate connection or coupling between the maintenance dial 600 and a printer (e.g., printer 100 or any other suitable printing device).

[0156] The actuator 654 can be disposed on the shroud cover 604 proximate the protruding area 788. The actuator 654 can be coupled to a post 646 that can extend upward through the shroud cover 604 and be received by the socket 728 of the actuator 654. A stop 844 can be disposed on the shroud 604 and can abut the actuator 654 when the actuator 654 is in the idle position ( Figure 38). An anchor 846 can project upward from the shroud cover 604 and can be positioned opposite the stop 844 relative to the actuator 654. A spring 848 extending between the anchor 846 and the hook 710 of the actuator 654 can apply a return force to the actuator 654 if the actuator 654 is rotated away from the anchor 846.

[0157] A housing 802 positioned adjacent the actuator assembly 606 and extending upwardly from the main body 790 of the shroud cover 604 may have a top plate 804 including one or more openings 608 extending therethrough. When the maintenance carousel 600 is in use, the openings 608 may allow waste ink to enter the enclosure formed by the shroud 602 and the shroud cover 604. Figure 38 As shown, two linear openings 608 are provided in the top plate 804. However, in other cases, any number of openings 608 may be arranged in any suitable configuration, so long as the openings 608 are positioned to allow one or more printheads of the printer (e.g., the printhead 140 of the printer 100) to deposit waste ink into the maintenance tray 600.

[0158] Go to Figure 39 A tray 610 configured to collect waste ink can be disposed within the enclosure formed by the shroud 602 and the shroud cover 604. The tray 610 can include a substantially circular base 612, a substantially annular lip 616, and a substantially cylindrical sidewall 614 extending therebetween. The base 612 can be defined by a lower perimeter 618 of the sidewall 614, and the lip 616 can extend outward from an upper perimeter 620 of the sidewall 614. A receiving post 626 having a cavity 628 (defined by and extending through a sidewall 627 of the receiving post 626) can be disposed on the base 612 in a central position relative to the sidewall 614. In some cases, a tray support structure 622 comprising a plurality of wall members 624 can be disposed on the base 612 and extend upward therefrom. The tray 610 can include one or more fins 630 disposed around the lower perimeter 618 of the sidewall 614 and extending inward therefrom (e.g., toward the receiving post 626). A plurality of third teeth 621 can surround and extend outwardly from the upper periphery 620 of the sidewall 614. The plurality of third teeth 621 can be disposed below and / or adjacent the lip 616 and evenly radially spaced apart from one another around the upper periphery 620.

[0159] Go to Figure 40, an absorbent pad 634 may be positioned within the tray 610. The absorbent pad 634 may be substantially annular in shape and may be defined by an outer diameter 636 and an inner diameter 638. The outer diameter 636 may correspond to and be substantially the same size as the lower perimeter 618 of the sidewall 614. The inner diameter 638 may define a central opening 640 that corresponds to and is configured to receive the receiving post 626 when the absorbent pad 634 is positioned within the tray 610. In some cases, the absorbent pad 634 may rest atop the tray support structure 622. One or more slots 642 corresponding to one or more fins 630 of the tray 610 may be positioned around the outer perimeter 636 of the absorbent pad 634 and extend completely therethrough. The slots 642 may be evenly radially spaced from one another along the outer diameter 636, and each slot 642 may be configured to align with and receive one of the fins 630 when the absorbent pad 634 is positioned within the tray 610. Thus, the engagement between the fins 630 and the slots 642 may prevent or resist rotation of the absorbent pad 634 relative to the tray 610 .

[0160] Actuator assembly 606, provided in substantially the same form as actuator assembly 206, may include a post 646, a gear unit 694 including a gear 650 positioned along post 646, a one-way clutch 648 disposed between gear 650 and post 646, and an actuator 654 positioned at the top of post 646. Post 646, one-way clutch 648, and gear unit 694 may be configured to rotate together as a single unit in response to rotation of actuator 654. Actuator 654 may be fixedly coupled to or assembled to post 646 via a socket 728 and may extend upward therefrom. A trigger 724 may be positioned at the top of actuator 654 and may be configured to convert a linear force applied to trigger 724 into a rotational force applied to actuator 654 and transmitted to the remaining components of actuator assembly 606. Gear 650 may include a plurality of fourth teeth 656. The actuator assembly 606 can be positioned adjacent to the tray 610 so that the plurality of fourth teeth 656 can be aligned with and engaged with the plurality of third teeth 621. Thus, the actuator assembly 606 can be positioned substantially similar to the above-described embodiment with reference to FIG. Figure 37 The indexing of the tray 610 is performed in the manner described.

[0161] Steering Figure 41, the shroud 602 can include an actuator assembly well 762 and a central post 764 disposed on and extending upward from the platform 746 of the shroud 602. The actuator assembly well 762 can be positioned in the protruding region 750 proximate the outer wall 748. In some cases, one or more connector walls 766 can extend between the outer wall 748 and the actuator assembly well 762, thereby coupling the actuator assembly well 762 and the outer wall 748 and imparting additional structural stability to the actuator assembly well 762. A channel 770 configured to receive at least a portion of the post 646 and at least a portion of the gear unit 694 can extend vertically through the actuator assembly well 762, such that when the maintenance carousel 600 is fully assembled, the actuator assembly 606 can be mounted within and supported by the actuator assembly well 762. The center post 764 may be positioned to align with and be received by the receiving post 626 of the tray 610 such that the tray 610 may be supported by the shroud 602 for rotation about the center post 764 .

[0162] The shroud 602 can include one or more flexible tabs 758 formed in the platform 746. Each flexible tab can include a ridge 784 at an end thereof and can be at least partially surrounded by a moat 786, which can allow the flexible tab 758 to flex upward or downward relative to the platform 746. Thus, when indexed by the actuator assembly 606, the flexible tab 758 can be configured to apply friction to the tray 610, as described above with reference to FIG. Figure 26 Additionally, one or more elongated fins 760 configured to prevent or reduce unintended movement of the tray 610 within the shroud 602 may be disposed along and extend inwardly from the outer wall 748 (eg, toward the center post 764).

[0163] One difference between the maintenance carousel 200 and the maintenance carousel 600 is that the shield cover 604 of the maintenance carousel 600 may include two plate housings 603a, 603b configured to receive two electrostatic plates 601a, 601b, respectively. Figure 42 As best shown in FIG, the plate housings 603a, 603b are each defined by a rectilinear sidewall that projects downwardly from an underside 808 of the shroud cover 604. The plate housings 603a, 603b may be oriented in a substantially parallel manner relative to one another.

[0164] like Figure 42 8, a substantially cylindrical collar 816 defining a hole 814 extending therethrough can be disposed on the underside 808 of the shroud cover 604 proximate the protruding region 788. The hole 814 can be arranged to align with the actuator assembly well 762 and receive at least a portion of the post 646 of the actuator assembly 606. Thus, at least a portion of the post 646 can extend above the shroud cover 604 via the hole 814 to support the actuator 654 when the maintenance carousel 600 is assembled (see FIG. Figure 38 ).

[0165] like Figure 43 As best shown in FIG, the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b can be substantially identical. However, in other cases, the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b can be provided as unique components imparted with any suitable shape or structure. Each electrostatic plate 601 can be provided in the form of a metal or other conductive material (e.g., a conductive polymer, silicon, or any other suitable material) and can be provided in the form of a substantially linear panel defined by a bottom end 605 and a top end 607 opposite the bottom end 605. One or more contact portions 609 can extend upwardly from opposite sides of the top end 607. When the electrostatic plate 601 is at least partially or completely disposed within the plate housing 603, the bottom end 605 of the electrostatic plate 601 can be first inserted into the plate housing 603 such that the bottom end 605 is disposed adjacent the absorbent pad 634 (see FIG. Figure 44 ).

[0166] like Figure 44 As best shown in FIG, electrostatic plates 601a, 601b disposed within plate housings 603a, 603b may extend downwardly into an enclosure formed by a shroud 602 and a shroud cover 604. The plate housings 603a, 603b may include inner walls 611a, 611b defining a chamber in which the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b may rest. The plate housings 603a, 603b may also include one or more retaining members 613 coupled to and extending inwardly from the inner walls 611a, 611b. The retaining members 613 may be configured to buttress the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b and reduce or eliminate movement of the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b within the plate housings 603a, 603b.

[0167] Each of electrostatic plates 601a, 601b can be charged. In some cases, electrostatic plates 601a, 601b can be connected with transformer (not shown), and described transformer can apply voltage to electrostatic plates 601a, 601b (for example, via contact portion 609). Like this, one of electrostatic plates 601a, 601b can be given positive charge, and another of electrostatic plates 601a, 601b can be given negative charge. Therefore, electrostatic plates 601a, 601b can produce electromagnetic field in and / or around maintenance turntable 600. Any one of electrostatic plates 601a, 601b can be selected for positive charge, and any one of electrostatic plates 601a, 601b can be selected for negative charge. However, electrostatic plates 601a, 601b should be given opposite electric charge, so as to produce electromagnetic field.

[0168] In some cases, the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b and plate housings 603a, 603b can be oriented substantially vertically (e.g., substantially perpendicular relative to the base 612 of the tray 610). In other cases, the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b and plate housings 603a, 603b can be oriented substantially horizontally (e.g., substantially parallel to the base 612 of the tray 610). The orientation and / or position of the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b can be selected based on the desired direction and / or strength of the electromagnetic field.

[0169] In some cases, electromagnetically charged waste ink may be ejected by a printhead (e.g., printhead 140) in the form of small droplets and / or atomized particles, which may have a tendency to become airborne or accumulate in an area outside of the maintenance turntable 600. When the maintenance turntable 600 is in use, the electromagnetic field may attract these smaller droplets and / or atomized particles of waste ink to the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b. Thus, the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b and the magnetic field generated therefrom may increase the effectiveness of the maintenance turntable 600 and / or improve the lifespan of the printer. For example, the electromagnetic field may reduce the likelihood of waste ink droplets or particles accumulating in critical components of the printer, where they could cause damage or lead to malfunction. If waste ink accumulates directly on the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b, it may interfere with the function of the maintenance turntable 600 (e.g., by causing a short circuit). Thus, in addition to properly positioning and orienting the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b (eg, a sufficient distance away from the opening 608), the plate housings 603a, 603b can shield the electrostatic plates 601a, 601b from direct waste ink accumulation.

[0170] The maintenance turntable 600 can be used in the same manner as described above (particularly with reference to Figure 37 ) The maintenance carousel 200 is positioned in a substantially similar manner within and operatively engaged with a printer (e.g., printer 100 or any other suitable printing device). Thus, the actuator assembly 606 can drive the tray 610 to index so that the ink accumulated on the absorbent pad 634 is given a generally circular profile.

[0171] Go to Figures 45 to 54, depicts another embodiment of a maintenance carousel 1000, which may be provided in substantially the same form as the maintenance carousel 200, except that the maintenance carousel 1000 may further include a fan assembly 1001 configured to generate airflow through the maintenance carousel 1000 and into its passage area 1003. In describing the maintenance carousel 1000, like names and like reference numerals are used to refer to like components as the maintenance carousel 200 (i.e., components of the maintenance carousel 1000 and components of the maintenance carousel 200 that are labeled with similar or identical names and reference numerals that differ by exactly 800 may be substantially identical in form and function).

[0172] like Figure 45 and Figure 46 As shown, the maintenance carousel 1000 may include a shroud 1002 and a shroud cover 1004, which may be provided in a substantially similar form to the shroud 202 and shroud cover 204 of the maintenance carousel 200. However, the shroud 1002 and shroud cover 1004 may include a channel area 1003, which may be configured to retain the fan assembly 1001 and / or other internal components of the maintenance carousel 1000. Figure 46 , the shroud 1002 may include a platform 1146 and an outer wall 1148 surrounding and extending upwardly therefrom. The shroud cover 1004 may include an outer peripheral edge 1192 defining a body 1190, which may be imparted with substantially the same shape as the shroud's platform 1146. Thus, the shroud cover 1004 may be coupled to the shroud 1002 such that the protruding area 1188 of the shroud cover 1004 is aligned with the protruding area 1150 of the shroud 1002, and the actuator assembly 1006 may be supported adjacent thereto.

[0173] The actuator 1054 can be disposed on the shroud cover 1004 adjacent the protruding area 1188. The actuator 1054 can be coupled to the post 1046 (see Figure 49 ), the post can extend upward through the shield cover 1004 and be received by the socket 1128 of the actuator 654. A stop 1244 can be provided on the shield cover 1004 and can abut the actuator 1054 when the actuator 1054 is in the idle position ( Figure 45 and Figure 46 ). Anchor 1246 can project upward from shroud cover 1004 and can be positioned opposite stop 1244 relative to actuator 1054. In the event that actuator 1054 is rotated away from anchor 1246, a spring 1248 extending between anchor 1246 and hook 1110 of actuator 1054 can apply a return force to actuator 1054.

[0174] The passage region 1003 can be positioned opposite the actuator assembly 1006 relative to the body 1190 and the platform 1146 and can include at least a portion of each of the shroud 1002 and the shroud cover 1004. The passage region 1003 can be provided in the form of a substantially linear, curved, or curvilinear passage extending outwardly from the outer wall 1148 and the body 1190 and in fluid communication with the remainder of the enclosure formed by the shroud 1002 and the shroud cover 1004. The passage region 1003 can begin at a proximal end 1005 connected to the outer wall 1148 and the body 1190 and can terminate at a distal end 1007 opposite the proximal end 1005. The passage region 1003 is provided in the form of two passage walls 1009, a top plate 1011, and a base 1013 extending from the proximal end 1005 to the distal end 1007 and defining an airflow channel therebetween. The fan assembly 1001 can be disposed at or near the distal end 1007 of the passage area 1003 and can be configured to draw air (e.g., to generate an airflow) into the maintenance turntable 1000 and / or through the passage area 1003. In some cases, the fan assembly 1001 can be provided in the form of a digital current (DC) brushless axial flow fan. However, in other cases, the fan assembly 1001 can be provided in the form of any suitable device configured to generate an airflow through the maintenance turntable 1000. The air driven by the fan assembly 1001 can exit the maintenance turntable 1000 via an outflow area 1015 disposed at the distal end 1007 of the passage area 1003.

[0175] A housing 1202 positioned proximate the actuator assembly 1006 and extending upwardly from the body 1190 of the shroud cover 1004 may have a top plate 1204 including one or more openings 1008 extending therethrough. When the maintenance carousel 1000 is in use, the openings 1008 may allow waste ink to enter the enclosure formed by the shroud 1002 and the shroud cover 1004. Figure 45 and Figure 46 As shown, two linear openings 1008 are provided in top plate 1204. However, in other cases, any number of openings 1008 may be arranged in any suitable configuration, so long as openings 1008 are positioned to allow one or more printheads of a printer (e.g., printhead 140 of printer 100) to deposit waste ink into maintenance tray 1000. Openings 1008 may also provide one or more vents through which fan assembly 1001 can draw air into maintenance tray 1000.

[0176] The shield cover 1004 may include one or more latches 1194 and one or more pin members 1196 disposed about the peripheral edge 1192. The latches 1194 and the pin members 1196 may be arranged to align with and be received by, respectively, one or more connecting protrusions 1154 and one or more receiving members 1156 disposed about the outer wall 1148 of the shield 1002. Thus, the latches 1194, the pin members 1196, the connecting protrusions 1154, and the receiving members 1156 may facilitate coupling between the shield 1002 and the shield cover 1004, as described above with reference to FIG. Figures 32-34 The shield 1002 may also include one or more mounting tabs 1152 disposed along and extending outwardly from the outer wall 1148. The mounting tabs 1152 may be configured to facilitate connection or coupling between the maintenance carousel 1000 and a printer (e.g., the printer 100 or any other suitable printing device).

[0177] Additionally, one or more fasteners 1017 positioned along the passage area 1003 can facilitate coupling between the shroud cover 1004 and the shroud 1002. The shroud 1002 can have one or more threaded members 1019 extending outwardly from one or both of the passage walls 1009, and the shroud cover 1004 can have one or more connecting members 1043 extending outwardly from a top plate 1011 of the passage area 1003. The connecting members 1043 can be arranged to align with and / or abut the threaded members 1019 such that the fasteners 1017 can extend through the connecting members 1043 and into the threaded members 1019, thereby coupling the shroud cover 1004 to the shroud 1002.

[0178] like Figure 46 As best shown in FIG, an opening 1023 arranged to expose or allow access to a contact area 1025 of the fan assembly 1001 can be located on the top plate 1011 of the access area 1003. The opening 1023 can allow the fan assembly 1001 to be operably engaged with a printer (e.g., printer 100) when the maintenance carousel 1000 is in use. One or more components of the printer (e.g., a motor) can be electrically coupled to the fan assembly 1001 via the contact area 1025 to provide power thereto and / or drive its movement.

[0179] Go to Figure 47A tray 1010 configured to collect waste ink can be disposed within the enclosure formed by the shield 1002 and the shield cover 1004. The tray 1010 can include a substantially circular base 1012, a substantially annular lip 1016, and a substantially cylindrical sidewall 1014 extending therebetween. The base 1012 can be surrounded by a lower periphery 618 of the sidewall 1014, and the lip 1016 can extend outward from an upper periphery 1020 of the sidewall 1014. A receiving post 1026 having a cavity 1028 extending therethrough can be disposed on the base 1012 at a central location relative to the sidewall 1014. In some cases, a tray support structure 1022 comprising a plurality of wall members 1024 can be disposed on the base 1012 and extend upward therefrom. A plurality of fifth teeth 1021 can surround the upper periphery 1020 of the sidewall 1014 and extend outward therefrom. A plurality of fifth teeth 1021 may be disposed below and adjacent the lip 1016 and evenly radially spaced apart from one another around the upper periphery 1020 .

[0180] Unlike trays 210, 610, tray 1010 may include a plurality of airflow windows 1045 formed in sidewall 1014. Windows 1045 may be configured to allow air to flow from opening 1008 to channel area 1003 when maintenance carousel 1000 is in use. Figure 47 As shown, the tray 1010 can include twelve windows 1045 that are evenly radially spaced from one another along the sidewall 1014. However, in other cases, the tray 1010 can include any number of windows 1045 configured in any suitable arrangement, so long as the windows 1045 are configured to allow air to flow through the passage area 1003 as the tray 1010 rotates within the maintenance carousel 1000.

[0181] Go to Figure 48 and Figure 49 , an absorbent pad 1034 can be disposed within the tray 1010. The absorbent pad 1034 can be substantially annular in shape and can be defined by an outer diameter 1036 and an inner diameter 1038. The outer diameter 1036 can correspond to and be substantially the same size as the lower perimeter 1018 of the sidewall 1014. The inner diameter 1038 can define a central opening 1040 that corresponds to and is configured to receive the receiving post 1026 when the absorbent pad 1034 is positioned within the tray 1010. In some cases, the absorbent pad 1034 can rest on top of the tray support structure 1022.

[0182] Actuator assembly 1006, provided in a form substantially identical to actuator assembly 206, may include a column 1046, a gear unit 1094 including a gear 1050 positioned along column 1046, a one-way clutch 1048 disposed between gear 1050 and column 1046, and an actuator 1054 positioned at the top of column 1046. Column 1046, one-way clutch 1048, and gear unit 1094 may be configured to rotate together as a single unit in response to rotation of actuator 1054. Actuator 1054 may be fixedly coupled to column 1046 via socket 1128 and may extend upward therefrom. A trigger 1124 may be positioned at the top of actuator 1054 and may be configured to convert a linear force applied to trigger 1124 into a rotational force applied to actuator 1054 and transmitted to the remaining components of actuator assembly 1006. Gear 1050 may include a plurality of sixth teeth 1056. The actuator assembly 1006 can be positioned adjacent to the tray 1010 so that the plurality of sixth teeth 1056 can be aligned with and engaged with the plurality of fifth teeth 1021. Thus, the actuator assembly 1006 can be positioned substantially similar to the above-described embodiment with reference to FIG. Figure 37 The indexing of the tray 1010 is performed in the manner described.

[0183] Go to Figure 50 and Figure 51 , the shroud 1002 can include an actuator assembly well 1162 and a central post 1164 disposed on and extending upward from the platform 1146 of the shroud 1002. The actuator assembly well 1162 can be positioned in the protruding region 1150 proximate the outer wall 1148. In some cases, one or more connector walls 1166 can extend between the outer wall 1148 and the actuator assembly well 1162, thereby coupling the actuator assembly well 1162 and the outer wall 1148 and imparting additional structural stability to the actuator assembly well 1162. A passageway 1170 configured to receive at least a portion of the post 1046 and at least a portion of the gear unit 1094 can extend vertically through the actuator assembly well 1162, such that when the maintenance carousel 1000 is fully assembled, the actuator assembly 1006 can be mounted within and supported by the actuator assembly well 1162. The center post 1164 can be positioned to align with and be received by the receiving post 1026 of the tray 1010 such that the tray 1010 can be supported by the shroud 1002 to rotate about the center post 1164 .

[0184] The shroud 1002 may include one or more flexible tabs 1158 formed in the platform 1146. Each flexible tab may include a ridge 1184 at an end thereof and may be at least partially surrounded by a moat 1186, which may allow the flexible tab 1158 to flex upward or downward relative to the platform 1146. In this manner, when the actuator assembly 1006 is indexed, as described above with reference to FIG. Figure 26As described, the flexible tabs 1158 can apply friction to the tray 1010. Additionally, one or more elongated fins 1160 configured to prevent or reduce unintentional movement of the tray 1010 within the shroud 1002 can be disposed along the outer wall 1148 and extend inwardly therefrom (e.g., toward the center post 1164).

[0185] like Figure 50 and Figure 51 As best shown in FIG, the channel region 1003 of the shield 1002 can be defined by a first region 1029 adjacent the proximal end 1005 and a second region 1031 adjacent the distal end 1007. A plurality of pegs 1033 disposed between the channel walls 1009 adjacent the proximal end 1005 can be positioned within the first region 1029. The pegs 1033 can be integrally formed with the platform 1146, or they can be coupled to the platform 1146 and extend upwardly therefrom. The pegs 1033 can be configured to be disposed in the first region 1029 (see FIG. Figure 52 ) one or more filters 1035 are maintained in the passage formed by the channel region 1003 without significantly impeding the flow of air therethrough.

[0186] The divider 1037 can extend between the channel walls 1009 near the distal end 1007 and can extend upward from the platform 1146 and / or inward from the channel walls 1009. The second region 1031 can be disposed between the divider 1037 and the distal end 1007 of the channel region 1003 and can be configured to receive the fan assembly 1001 (see FIG. Figure 52 ). Thus, the divider 1037 can be configured to prevent or resist movement of the fan assembly 1001 when the maintenance carousel 1000 is in use.

[0187] Steering Figure 52 , a generally cylindrical collar 1216 defining a hole 1214 extending therethrough can be disposed on the underside 1208 of the shroud cover 1004 adjacent the protruding region 1188. The hole 1214 can be arranged to align with the actuator assembly well 1162 and receive at least a portion of the post 1046 of the actuator assembly 1006. Thus, at least a portion of the post 1046 can extend above the shroud cover 1004 via the hole 1214 to support the actuator 1054 when the maintenance carousel 1000 is assembled (see Figure 46 ).

[0188] Similar to shroud 1002, the passageway region 1003 of shroud cover 1004 may be defined by a first region 1029 configured to receive one or more filters 1035 and a second region 1031 configured to receive fan assembly 1001. A divider 1039, configured in a substantially identical manner to and aligned with divider 1037 of shroud 1002, may be provided on top plate 1011 and extend downwardly therefrom. Thus, when maintenance carousel 1000 is in use, divider 1039 of shroud cover 1004, together with divider 1037 of shroud 1002, may help secure fan assembly 1001 within second region 1031. Similarly, a plurality of pins 1041, configured to align with pegs 1033 of shroud 1002, may be provided on top plate 1011 and extend downwardly therefrom. Thus, the pins 1041, together with pegs 1033, may help secure one or more filters 1035 (or other components) within first region 1029.

[0189] like Figure 53 , the fan assembly 1001 can be disposed within the shroud 1002 and retained between the divider 1037 and the distal end 1007 of the passage area 1003. Additionally, one or more filters 1035 can be disposed proximate the proximal end 1005 (e.g., between the platform 1146 and the fan assembly 1001) and retained by the pegs 1033. The one or more filters 1035 can be configured to clean or otherwise remove contaminants or other particulate matter from air entering the passage area 1003 as the fan assembly 1001 draws air through the maintenance carousel 1000.

[0190] In some cases, the filter 1035 can be provided in the form of a sheet of reticulated polyurethane foam configured to be positioned between the channel wall 1009 and the pegs 1033. Alternatively, in some cases, the filter 1035 can be provided in the form of a non-woven polyester (e.g., plastic) mesh or grid. However, in other cases, the filter 1035 can be provided in the form of any suitable air filter (e.g., a meltblown filter formed from polypropylene, polyester, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), or any other suitable material). Figure 52 As shown, two filters 1035 are disposed between the pegs 1033 and positioned adjacent to each other. However, in other examples, a single filter 1035 or any suitable number of filters 1035 may be provided. Where more than one filter 1035 is provided, each filter 1035 may be provided in the same form, or at least one of the filters 1035 may be provided in a different form than at least one other filter 1035.

[0191] The maintenance turntable 1000 can be used in the same manner as described above (especially with reference to Figure 37) is positioned in a substantially similar manner within and operably engaged with a printer (e.g., printer 100 or any other suitable printing device) such that the actuator assembly 1006 can drive indexing of the tray 1010 such that ink accumulated on the absorbent pad 1034 is imparted with a generally circular profile.

[0192] like Figure 54 , the windows 1045 can be arranged around the sidewall 1014 of the tray 1010 such that at least one window 1045 is aligned or substantially aligned with the access region 1003 regardless of the rotational position of the tray 1010 relative to the shroud 1002. In this way, the one or more windows 1045 aligned with the access region 1003 can provide a channel through which the fan assembly 1001 can draw air into the maintenance carousel 1000 (e.g., through the openings 1008, Figure 54 Before the filtered air exits the maintenance carousel 1000 via the outflow area 1015 , at least a portion of the air may pass through the filter 1035 .

[0193] Waste ink can be ejected into the maintenance rotary disk 1000 in the form of droplets of various sizes, atomized particles or its mixture (for example, by print head 140). Heavier waste ink droplets can naturally fall onto absorbent pad 1034, while smaller droplets and / or atomized particles may tend to accumulate in other areas. In some cases, ink may accumulate in the outside of maintenance rotary disk 1000 and cause the key components of printer to be damaged. The consistent airflow through maintenance rotary disk 1000 produced by fan assembly 1001 can guide these smaller droplets and / or atomized particles towards the tray 1010 and / or filter 1035 that can collect them. A plurality of windows 1045 are provided so that when actuator assembly 1006 indexes tray 1010, sidewall 1014 does not hinder airflow through filter 1035.

[0194] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although the above disclosure has been described above in conjunction with specific embodiments and examples, the above disclosure is not necessarily so limited, and numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications, and deviations from the embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be covered by the appended claims. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated herein by reference, as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated herein by reference. The various features and advantages of the above disclosure are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A maintenance turntable for collecting waste ink in a printer, comprising: an enclosure provided in the form of a shroud and a shroud cover coupled to the shroud, the shroud cover having an opening through which waste ink can be deposited; a tray supported for rotation within the shroud; an actuator assembly coupled to the tray, the actuator assembly further comprising: a one-way clutch configured to allow rotation only in a first rotational direction; an actuator arranged to cause rotation of the one-way clutch; and A gear unit is configured to rotate in unison with the one-way clutch, the gear unit being designed to engage the tray.

2. The maintenance turntable according to claim 1, wherein: The printer is configured to engage the actuator assembly and drive the tray to rotate by striking the actuator each time one or more printheads of the printer deposit waste ink into the maintenance carousel.

3. The maintenance carousel of claim 2, further comprising a spring extending between an anchor positioned on the shroud cover and the hook portion of the actuator.

4. The maintenance turntable according to claim 3, wherein: The spring applies a return force to the actuator in response to the printer engaging the actuator.

5. The maintenance turntable according to claim 4, wherein: The shroud includes a stop positioned to limit rotation of the actuator in response to the return force.

6. The maintenance turntable according to claim 5, wherein: The direction in which the actuator rotates in response to being engaged by the printer corresponds to the first rotational direction, and the one-way clutch prevents the actuator assembly from driving the tray to rotate when the actuator rotates in response to the return force.

7. The maintenance turntable according to claim 1, wherein: The actuator assembly is configured to drive the tray in rotation, and wherein the shroud includes one or more flexible tabs arranged to apply friction to the tray when the actuator assembly drives the tray in rotation.

8. The maintenance turntable according to claim 1, wherein: An absorbent pad is positioned within the tray and is configured to absorb waste ink dispensed from the printer, the absorbent pad being provided in the form of felt.

9. The maintenance turntable according to claim 1, wherein: The actuator assembly causes indexing of the tray.

10. The maintenance turntable according to claim 1, wherein: Waste ink accumulates in a circular pattern within the tray.

11. A maintenance turntable for collecting waste ink in a printer, comprising: Shield; a shield cover associated with the shield, the shield cover including one or more electrostatic plate housings; one or more electrostatic plates at least partially disposed within the one or more electrostatic plate housings, wherein the one or more electrostatic plates are configured to generate an electromagnetic field; a tray supported for rotation within the shroud; and An actuator assembly is configured to drive the tray to rotate, and the actuator assembly includes an actuator and a clutch.

12. The maintenance turntable according to claim 11, wherein: The one or more electrostatic plates are provided in the form of two metal electrostatic plates having rectilinear face plates with one or more contact portions.

13. The maintenance turntable according to claim 12, wherein: The two metal electrostatic plates are connected to a transformer configured to apply a voltage to the two metal electrostatic plates.

14. The maintenance turntable according to claim 11, wherein: The electromagnetic field attracts droplets or atomized particles of waste ink toward the electrostatic plate.

15. A maintenance turntable for collecting waste ink in a printer, comprising: a housing comprising one or more openings designed to receive waste ink from the printer, a tray disposed within the enclosure; an actuator assembly coupled to the tray, the actuator assembly comprising an actuator, a clutch, and a gear unit configured to rotate with the clutch; as well as a fan assembly coupled to the enclosure and the tray, the fan assembly being configured to generate an airflow through the maintenance carousel, Wherein the printer is configured to engage the actuator assembly and drive the tray to rotate by striking the actuator each time one or more printheads of the printer deposit waste ink into the maintenance carousel.

16. The maintenance turntable according to claim 15, wherein: At least one window is formed in the tray, and the window allows air to flow from the tray to the exterior of the enclosure.

17. The maintenance turntable according to claim 15, wherein: The fan assembly is configured to draw air into the maintenance carousel through the one or more openings and exhaust air from the maintenance carousel through an output area associated with a fan duct.

18. The maintenance turntable according to claim 17, wherein: One or more filters are positioned in the fan channel between the fan assembly and the tray.

19. The maintenance turntable according to claim 18, wherein: The fan duct includes one or more dividers configured to hold the fan assembly in place and one or more pegs configured to hold the one or more filters in place.

20. The maintenance turntable according to claim 18, wherein: The one or more filters are provided in the form of reticulated polyurethane foam.

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