19
2.13
Wiper station
The printhead must be wiped to remove ink cross-contamination and particulates. The
cylindrical wiper rotates to wipe the entire width of the printhead. The roller rotates for
the duration of the lift-dwell-lower cycle. The intent is not to merely blot the nozzles but
to have functionally translational wiping. The wiper is programmable and can be rotated
numerous times to perform multiple wiping operations. Once wiping is complete the
station drops back down. A metal transfer roller cleaned by a doctor blade helps remove
ink from the wiper. The removed ink dries or evaporates within the wiper station.
When the wiper becomes contaminated to such an extent that it is no longer effective,
the wiper must be replaced by unlatching the two wiper retaining clips. These clips can
be released while the maintenance module is in the wipe position.
Figure 21
Picture of Wiper station
Printing platen
The platen provides a smooth writing surface and the correct spacing between the
media and the printhead. During printing, the paper below the printhead is maintained
at a fixed dive angle from the drive roller nip and platen below the nozzles to ensure
print quality. Along the center of the platen there are four Porex (tm) micro sponges to
collect ink overspray.
Figure 22
Picture of Printing platen
