CPC Definition - Subclass B41J

Last Updated Version: 2023.08
TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Only selective printing mechanisms including kinds of type-writers
  • Manually controlled power-operated apparatus or apparatus of this type with additional control by input of stored program instructions, e.g. on punched cards or tapes;
  • The "print-out" features of apparatus controlled by stored program instructions or electric signals in so far as these are of general interest, e.g. impression, inking, line-spacing mechanisms, printing heads;
Relationships with other classification places

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The preceding image includes references to B41J, G03G, H04N 1/00, H04N 1/387, H04N 1/40, H04N 1/60, G06F 3/12, G06F 17/00 and G06K 15/00.

References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Machines for printing and issuing tickets

G07B 1/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Shaping of 3D-objects by means of liquid-jetting

B29C 64/112

Composing

B41B

Printing presses

B41F

Stamps or stamping

B41K

Erasers, rubbers or erasing devices

B43L 19/00

Fluid media for correction of typographical errors by coating

C09D 10/00

Recording the results of measuring

G01

Recognition or presentation of data, marking record carriers in digital fashion, e.g. by punching

G06K

Processing computer-generated data for printing or electrical features of apparatus controlled by record carriers or electric signals and of interest apart from the "print-out" features of said apparatus

G06K 15/00 or G06F 3/12

Franking or ticket-printing and issuing apparatus

G07B

Electric keyboard switches, in general

H01H 13/70, H03K 17/94

Coding in connection with keyboards or like devices, in general

H03M 11/00

Receivers or transmitters for transmission of digital information

H04L

Transmission or reproduction of documents, or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission

H04N 1/00

Conversion of picture/colour signals for printing

H04N 1/00

Special rules of classification

Printing mechanisms specially adapted for apparatus, e.g. cash registers, weighing machines, producing records of their own performance: see the relevant subclasses.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Printing material/media

paper or temporary record carriers from which records are transferred to a paper (not: printing masters, e.g. formes or printing plates)

Paper

printing material, including similar flexible material

Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the mounting, arrangement or disposition of the types or dies
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Type-writers only.
  • Publications of general interest and those not provided for in the lower sub-groups, e.g. complete machines.
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Dot-marking printers as ink-jet printers, dot-matrix printers, laser printers

B41J 2/00

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Type-writer

device with printing elements having complete characters, thus not built up from dots

with separate or detached types or dies
Definition statement

This place covers:

In general with additional characters

with types or dies mounted on endless bands or the like
Definition statement

This place covers:

Using type-belts.

Control circuits therefor.

with types or dies mounted on carriers rotatable for selection
Definition statement

This place covers:

Drums and wheels in general

the plane of the type or die face being perpendicular to the axis of rotation (B41J 1/60 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Daisy wheel printers and general aspects of the machine

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

With types or dies on spherical, truncated-spherical, or like surfaces

B41J 1/60

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Details of the carriers, font change and interchangeable carriers

B41J 25/24

the plane of the type or die face being parallel to the axis of rotation, e.g. with type on the periphery of cylindrical carriers (B41J 1/60 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

With types or dies on spherical, truncated-spherical, or like surfaces

B41J 1/60

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Output mechanism with printing mechanisms, e.g. for character-at-a-time or line-at-a-time printing

G06C 11/04

with types or dies on spherical, truncated-spherical, or like surfaces
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. of the golf-ball type

Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed (mounting, arrangement or disposition of types or dies B41J 1/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Bringing liquid or particles selectively onto a printing material, either by jetting or through contact. In particular, the sub-groups contain inkjet printers and thermal printers. It covers the structure of the apparatuses used for bringing liquid or particles selectively onto a printing material, their driving/controlling methods and the methods to manufacture them.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Mounting, arrangement, or disposition of types or dies

B41J 1/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Marking methods

B41M 5/00

characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material (printing by selective application of impact or pressure on a printing or impression-transfer material B41J 2/22)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Ink reaches paper without forming a flying drop

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References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Printing by selective application of impact or pressure on a printing or impression-transfer material

B41J 2/22

{where an intermediate transfer member receives the ink before transferring it on the printing material}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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Ink jet
Definition statement

This place covers:

Inkjet printers in general, when no details on structure is provided.

Relationships with other classification places

This sub group does not cover use of inkjet printers in manufacturing processes unless the printer itself has some significance

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For printing on special surfaces

B41J 3/407

generating a continuous ink jet
Definition statement

This place covers:

Heads generating a continuous stream of droplets, and selecting some to be printed while others are collected back into the ink supply system.

by vibration
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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generating single droplets or particles on demand
Definition statement

This place covers:

On-demand inkjet heads (every formed ink droplet will be printed).

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Magnetic and electrostatic actuators

B41J 2002/041 , B41J 2002/043

{Control methods or devices therefor, e.g. driver circuits, control circuits}
Special rules of classification

For control methods, each document should bear at least one code specifying the type of head being controlled, chosen from B41J 2/04575 - B41J 2/04586.

{Block driving}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Dot-size modulation by changing the size of the drop}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Dot-size modulation by changing the number of drops per dot}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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Devices for absorbing or preventing back-pressure
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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by electric or magnetic field
Definition statement

This place covers:

This sub-group contains documents in which an electric field causes the ejection of ink directly, without involvement of a membrane or the like.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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involving the preliminary making of ink protuberances
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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Sensors, e.g. deflection sensors {(nozzle clogging detection for cleaning reasons B41J 2/16579; detection for compensation for failed nozzles B41J 2/2139)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Deflection sensors for continuous ink jet printers.

Cameras for jet or dot position control.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Nozzle clogging detection for cleaning reasons

B41J 2/16579

Detection for compensation for failed nozzle

B41J 2/2139

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

During manufacture or detection by means of print head drive signal response

B41J 2/045

Nozzles
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group should be left empty. Classify in the lower subgroups that cover structures of on-demand inkjet heads (not only of nozzles). For nozzles and nozzle plates per se, see B41J 2/1433 and B41J 2002/14475. For manufacturing of nozzles and nozzle plates, see B41J 2/162. Heads in which an electric field causes the ejection of ink directly (thus without involvement of a membrane) are classified only in B41J 2/06 (thus not in the sub-groups of B41J 2/135).

Structure thereof {only for on-demand ink jet heads}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Should be understood as "structure of on-demand inkjet heads", where the head is the part comprising the chambers and actuators, and not the whole cartridge. .

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Generating single droplets or particles on demand

B41J 2/04

Heads in which an electric field causes the ejection of ink directly, thus without involvement of a membrane

B41J 2/06

{Structure of acoustic ink jet print heads}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Geometrical characteristics}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Movable member in the chamber}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Plural heating elements per ink chamber}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Heater chamber separated from ink chamber by a membrane}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Electrical connections, e.g. details on electrodes, connecting the chip to the outside...}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Structure dealing with thermal variations, e.g. cooling device, thermal coefficients of materials}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Current flowing through the ink}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Laser or electron beam heating the ink}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Shape}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Layer structure}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Resistor surrounding the nozzle opening}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Structure of the manifold}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Structures including a sensor}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Structure having belt or drum with holes filled with ink}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{movable member in the ink chamber}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Movable member in the pressure chamber of bubble jet print heads

B41J 2/14048

{of finger type, chamber walls consisting integrally of piezoelectric material}
Definition statement

This place covers:

No membrane between the chamber and the piezo element.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{of film type, deformed by bending and disposed on a diaphragm}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{of stacked structure type, deformed by compression/extension and disposed on a diaphragm}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{of cantilever type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{of tubular type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{of disc type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Structure of ink jet print heads with electrostatically actuated membrane}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Structure of nozzle plates}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Multiple pressure elements per ink chamber}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Plural heating elements per ink chamber in bubble jet print heads

B41J 2/14056

{Manifold}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Structure of the manifold of bubble jet print heads

B41J 2/14145

{Structure of ink jet print heads with thermal bend detached actuators}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Structure of ink jet print heads discharging by lowering surface tension of meniscus}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Separated pressure chamber}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Heater chamber separated from ink chamber by a membrane in bubble jet print heads

B41J 2/14064

{Electrical connection}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Electrical connections of bubble jet print heads

B41J 2/14072

Arrangement thereof
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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for serial printing
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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for line printing
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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Production of nozzles
Definition statement

This place covers:

Production of on-demand inkjet heads.

Special rules of classification

This group is used when the type of head manufactured, e.g. bubble-jet or piezo, is not known or when no specific sub-group exists for said type. For instance, acoustic heads or heads which work by lowering the surface tension of the meniscus.

This group does not cover manufacturing of heads in which an electric field causes the ejection of ink directly, and without involvement of a membrane, nor manufacturing of continuous inkjet heads.

When classifying a manufacturing method, at least one classification should always be given for the type of head being manufactured, i.e. B41J 2/16 - B41J 2/162 or B41J 2/1648. A classification for each used manufacturing process B41J 2/1623 - B41J 2/1646 should be given.

{Production of bubble jet print heads (B41J 2/1606, B41J 2/162 take precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group is used for bubble-jet heads when it is neither front shooter nor edge shooter, i.e. it is used when orientation is unknown or for back shooters.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Coating the nozzle area or the ink chamber

B41J 2/1606

Manufacturing of the nozzle plates

B41J 2/162

{of the front shooter type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{of the edge shooter type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Coating the nozzle area or the ink chamber}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media40.jpg

{Production of print heads with piezoelectric elements (B41J 2/1606, B41J 2/162 take precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This sub-group is used when the type of piezo electric head being manufactured is not defined.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Coating the nozzle area or the ink chamber

B41J 2/1606

Manufacturing of the nozzle plates

B41J 2/162

{of finger type, chamber walls consisting integrally of piezoelectric material}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{of film type, deformed by bending and disposed on a diaphragm}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{of stacked structure type, deformed by compression/extension and disposed on a diaphragm}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{of cantilever type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{of tubular type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{of disc type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Fixing the piezoelectric elements}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Manufacturing of the nozzle plates}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Manufacturing processes}
Special rules of classification

When classifying a manufacturing method, at least one class should always be given for the type of head being manufactured, i.e. B41J 2/16 - B41J 2/162 or B41J 2/1648. A classification for each used manufacturing process from B41J 2/1623 - B41J 2/1646 should be given.

{dividing the wafer into individual chips}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{sacrificial molding}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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{Production of print heads with thermal bend detached actuators}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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Preventing {or detecting} of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
Definition statement

This place covers:

Preventing clogging of nozzles;

Cleaning of nozzles;

Detection of defective nozzles for cleaning

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Conditioning of ink supply systems/circuits

B41J 2/1707, B41J 2/1714

Detection of defective nozzles for compensation of them by well-functioning nozzles

B41J 2/2142

Cleaning of other parts than nozzles or ink supply systems of an ink jet printer

B41J 29/17

For powder toner printers

G03G

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "nozzles", "apertures", "print(ing) elements" and "openings"
  • " discharge/ejection failure", "defect" "non-discharge", " clogging", "defective","failing", "non-operative", "inoperative" ,"non-firing", "malperforming"
  • "cleaning", "maintenance", "recovery" and "priming"
{Caps, spittoons or covers for cleaning or preventing drying out}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Caps connected to the print head itself instead of to the printer frame.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Cap/cover

to isolate the print head nozzles from the atmosphere

Spittoon

ink collector in which the print head ejects ink (it may be the cap itself)

{connected with the printer frame}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Line or stationary printers

B41J 2/16585

Collecting waste ink, ink collectors therefor

B41J 2/1721

{Cleaning of print head nozzles (B41J 2/16505, B41J 2/1707 take precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media52.png

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Caps

B41J 2/16505

Cleaning of the ink supply system

B41J 2/1707

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Waste ink/suction circuits

B41J 2/16523

Line or stationary printers

B41J 2/16585

Cleaning of printhead parts not dealing with the nozzle plate

B41J 2/1714

Waste ink collection tanks

B41J 2/1721

For monitoring ink quality

B41J 2/195

{Waste ink collection from caps or spittoons, e.g. by suction}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Systems comprising waste ink transport from a cap to a waste ink collector.

Special rules of classification

Waste ink containers are classified in B41J 2/1721

{by applying pressure only}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Liquid from the inside of the print head is forced through the printing apertures by actuation of the drivers.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "idle/idly discharge/ejection", "flushing", "priming", "spitting" and "purging"
{by applying vacuum only}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Processes and means sucking liquid from the inside of the print head through the printing apertures into a cap connected to a vacuum pump.

{using wiping constructions (B41J 2/16552 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Nozzle plate wipers as rollers or ribbons.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

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References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Using cleaning fluids

B41J 2/16552

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means to remove deposits from wipers or scrapers

B41J 2/16541

{using cleaning fluids}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Liquids or fluids for cleaning ink supply systems, nozzles or wipers.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Detergent compositions based essentially on surface-active compounds; Use of these compounds as a detergent

C11D 1/00

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Nozzles

printhead openings for passing the printing liquid

Wipers

material contacting a print head nozzle plate for removing liquid thereon

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "cleaning", "cleansing", "rinsing liquid" and "fluid"
{Detection means therefor, e.g. for nozzle clogging}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Detecting failure, e.g. clogging or malfunctioning actuator

B41J 2/0451

For monitoring ink quality

B41J 2/195

Compensation for malfunctioning nozzles creating dot place or dot size errors

B41J 2/2139

Detection of malfunctioning nozzles

B41J 2/2142

{for paper-width or non-reciprocating print heads}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Line heads or stationary print heads.

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Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Page-width or stationary print head

print head not moving during printing

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "line", "page-width" and "paper-width"
  • "non-reciprocating" and "stationary"
characterised by ink handling {(cleaning by driving a fluid through the nozzles to the outside thereof B41J 2/1652; for treating before, during or after printing or for uniform coating or laminating the copy material before or after printing B41J 11/0015)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Forcing ink through nozzles for cleaning nozzles

B41J 2/1652

Forced drying of ink/liquid printed onto a printing medium

B41J 11/0015

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Ink

all kinds of liquid for printing onto a printing medium, may also be colourless

{Conditioning of the inside of ink supply circuits, e.g. flushing during start-up or shut-down}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For removing air bubbles from ink supply circuits, cartridges or tanks

B41J 2/19

Circulating the ink in the stand-by time

B41J 2/20

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Flushing

rinsing

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "rinsing", "flushing" and "priming"
{Collecting waste ink; Collectors therefor}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Ink tanks collecting waste ink from caps or directly from a print head during borderless printing.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For collecting ink after ink ejection

B41J 2/16508, B41J 2/185

Special rules of classification

Closed waste ink collector:B41J 2002/1728

Open ink collector:B41J 2002/1742

Waste ink systems between cap and waste ink collector:B41J 2/16523

{Mounting within the printer}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bodily-changeable print heads or carriages

B41J 25/34

{electronically}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Also other data transfer as remaining liquid information

{Ink level or ink residue control}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Remaining ink quantity measurement using floater, optical means, impedance measurements, vibration, temperature change or counting ejected dropletsLow level operation of printer

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For information data transfer therewith

B41J 2/17546

For details

B41J 2002/17569 - B41J 2002/17589

Ink-collectors; Ink-catchers
Definition statement

This place covers:

Ink-catchers for ink jet printers of the continuous type.

Collecting ink after ejection from printers of the DOD-type.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Spittoons receiving ink by idle ink ejection during maintenance

B41J 2/16505, B41J 2/16508

Collectors receiving ink during printing (e.g. borderless printing)

B41J 2/1721

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

DOD

drop on demand (opposite to ink jet of the continuous type)

for printing a discrete number of tones (B41J 2/21 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Monochrome gray levels.

Liquids of same hue but with different intensity.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

For multi-colour printing

B41J 2/21

Halftoning by varying the number of within a pixel (dithering) for multi-colour printers

B41J 2/2132

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "gray levels", "tone levels" and "colour intensity"
  • "levels", "grayscale", "shading", "halftoning", "gradation" and "gradation value"
{by dot superpositioning, e.g. multipass doubling}
Definition statement

This place covers:

True half toning by means of superpositioning of droplets of the same colour.

{by the variation of dot disposition or characteristics, e.g. dot number density, dot shape}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Halftoning by a selectable number of adjacent dots of the same colour within a pixel.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Halftoning by dithering dots of different colour within a pixel

B41J 2/2132

{by ink density change}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Ejecting liquids of same hue but with different intensity, e.g. light and dark magenta/cyan inks.

for multi-colour printing
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Print resolution change

B41J 2/505

Print resolution change by print head rotation

B41J 25/003

Conversion of colour signals

H04N

Colour registering

H04N

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "colour", "color" and "hue"
{characterised by the ink properties (supplying ink in a solid state B41J 2/17593)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Covering dye-based inks vs pigmented inks.

Inks reactive which each other.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Using solid state inks

B41J 2/17593

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ink compositions

C09D 11/30

{Mixing of inks, solvent or air prior to paper contact}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media55.jpg

{Ejecting transparent or white coloured liquids, e.g. processing liquids (B41J 2/211 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Mixing of inks, solvent or air prior to paper contact

B41J 2/211

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "processing liquid", "ink", "printing improvement liquid", and "ink"
{by means of nozzle diameter selection}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media56.jpg

{by means of energy modulation (control methods or devices therefor, e.g. driver circuits or control circuits B41J 2/04501)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Half-toning or colouring by ejecting an ink droplet of selectable size from nozzles by using different drive power levels.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Drive signal shaping, stabilising ejection rates e.g. by temperature measurements

B41J 2/04501

{Print quality control characterised by dot disposition, e.g. for reducing white stripes or banding (methods for local corrections by dot omission, image edge enhancement, or multi-pass mask selection G06K 15/102; colour conversion H04N 1/40)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Multi-pass printing; Interlacing, the printed pixels printed in both fast- as slow-scan direction.

Dithering: several non-overlapping dots of different colour (C,M,Y,K) within a pixel to give the impression of one colour.

Preventing banding: white or dark stripes due to systematic dot positioning errors.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Methods for local corrections by dot omission, image edge enhancement, or multi-pass mask selection

G06K 15/102

Colour conversion

H04N 1/40

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Multi-pass

several movements of a print head in the main-scan direction, without a paper feed

Interlacing/interleaving

filling up the lines between the raster lines caused by the distance between two adjacent nozzles. Sometimes also used for filling up the empty pixels in a mask in the fast-scan direction

{Alignment of dots}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Alignment by nozzle drive control adjustment.

Test patterns.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Mechanical adjustment

B41J 25/001, B41J 25/304, B41J 25/34

Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine

B41J 29/393

using thermal heads
Definition statement

This place covers:

Direct printing type thermal head, i.e. using heat sensitive print media

by selective transfer of ink from ink carrier, e.g. from ink ribbon or sheet
Definition statement

This place covers:

Indirect thermal printing using ribbon between the head and the paper for printing.

Structure of thermal heads
Definition statement

This place covers:

All aspects relating to the head itself

{Electrode layers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Details concerning the electrodes: shape, geometry, dimension, material.

media57.jpg

US2008100686

{Heater layers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media58.jpg

{Integrated circuits}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media59.jpg

{Passivation layers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Details of passivation layer:shape, dimension, geometry, material

media60.jpg WO2008081949

{Protective layers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Details of the protection layer: shape, dimension, geometry, material

media61.jpg US2010134583

{Substrates}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Detail of the substrate such as architecture, material, geometry

media62.jpg

EP0763431

{characterised by geometry}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Geometrical characteristic:

media63.jpg

US2011141216

{characterised by dimensions}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Dimension being one of the key issues of the invention

media64.jpg

US6151054

{characterised by materials}
Definition statement

This place covers:

If a specific material is used for the head.

media65.jpg EP1195255

{Corner type resistors}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Heater at the corner of the substrate.

media66.jpg

US5426451

{Edge type resistors}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Heater on the edge of the substrate

media67.jpg US2006098052

{Surface type resistors}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Heater on the surface of the substrate

media68.jpg

US5305021

{Processes for assembling process heads}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Method comprising steps for assembling parts of a head

media69.jpg

WO9610490

{Cooling arrangements}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Architecture for cooling the head itself by heat dissipation on the substrate side.

media70.jpg

US5568176

{Hollow parts under the heater}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Part of the substrate or first layer above the substrate having a groove filled or not in order to dissipate heat.

media71.jpg

JP2007083532

{Manufacturing processes}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media72.jpg

EP2284010

{Conductors through the layered structure}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media73.jpg EP1077135

characterised by selective supply of electric current or selective application of magnetism to a printing or impression-transfer material (B41J 2/005 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Print heads only.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material

B41J 2/005

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Electrography, magnetography

G03G

Copying machine subjects other than the print head

G03G 15/00

Selection of the stylus or auxiliary electrode to be supplied
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Electronic switching circuits in general

H03K 17/00

{for direct electrostatic printing [DEP]}
Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

DEP

Direct Electrostatic Printing, without the intermediate step of a latent image because the toner particles are directly driven through the holes or slits.

for heating selectively
Definition statement

This place covers:

Printing by selective heating by applying an electric current to a printing medium.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Printing by contacting a printing medium by heated electrodes

B41J 2/32

Printing by heating through selective radiation

B41J 2/475

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Printing medium

e.g. a paper sheet on which is printed

characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material
Definition statement

This place covers:

Optical print heads as laser print heads

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ablation writing by laser on work pieces

B23K 26/0665

Optical elements, systems, or apparatus

G02B

Modulation or deflection of light

G02F

Electrophotography

G03G

Using a test patch for electrographic printers

G03G 15/5058

using single radiation source {per colour}, e.g. lighting beams or shutter arrangements (B41J 2/475 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material for heating selectively by radiation or ultrasonic waves

B41J 2/475

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using masks, e.g. light-switching masks

B41J 2/465

Characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using the combination of scanning and modulation of light

B41J 2/47

{using lasers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Laser characteristics as power, power density.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Working material by laser beam in general

B23K 26/00

Ablative marking methods and sheet materials for use therein

B41M 5/24

using arrays of radiation sources (B41J 2/475 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

General lay-outs of printers with light array print heads

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material for heating selectively:

B41J 2/475

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern by application of light, e.g. using a LED array

G03G 15/326

Special rules of classification

Light beam arrays are also used as light source in rotating mirror printers:

For reciprocating print head carriers: B41J 2/47

{using cathode ray or electron beam tubes}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media74.jpg

characterised by using glass fibres
Definition statement

This place covers:

Printers using one or more glass fibres as optical waveguide to guide light from a light source to the printing medium.

using masks, e.g. light-switching masks
Definition statement

This place covers:

Light-switching mirrors or valves for modulating.

Light slits for focusing light beams.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Photographic composing

B41B

using the combination of scanning and modulation of light
Definition statement

This place covers:

Light array print heads reciprocating (scanning) over the media to be printed.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Light modulation

light source intensity being set on a level corresponding with an image data map

{using dot sequential main scanning by means of a light deflector, e.g. a rotating polygonal mirror}
Definition statement

This place covers:

A modulated light beam from, e.g., a laser diode array is directed to a rotating mirror. From there the light beam is directed through a lens and is moved (scanned) over a medium, e.g. an electrically chargeable drum.

Illustrative example of the subject matter classified in this subgroup:

A rotating polygonal scanning mirror for moving (scanning) a laser light beam over an imaging drum.

media75.jpg

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Optical devices or arrangements using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light

G02B 26/00

Printer aspects other than the print head, e.g. toner powder subjects

G03G

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

ROS

raster output scanner

Rotating polygon

rotating device having a plurality of mirrored facets

Scanning mirror

moving mirror, e.g. rotating

Main-scanning

here: light beam moving over e.g. a drum

Sub-scanning

drum, belt or paper movement;

Light modulation

light source intensity being set on a level corresponding with an image data map.

{using multiple light beams, wavelengths or colours}
Definition statement

This place covers:

A plurality of light beams directed to the same scanning mirror (e.g. a light source array).

for heating selectively {by radiation or ultrasonic waves}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Thermal heads using heated electrodes contacting the material to be treated

B41J 2/32

By an electrical current between head and printing medium

B41J 2/42

{using thermosensitive substrates, e.g. paper}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Heating for writing or erasing on print media.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Erasing by a thermal head by contacting the print media

B41J 2/315

Erasing by an electric or magnetic field

B41J 3/4076

characterised by the process of building-up characters {or image elements} applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking processes
Definition statement

This place covers:

Matrix printing having means to control the print result e.g. negative print, background shaded, avoiding of wearing out by selective use of print elements. E.g. use of ultra-sonic vibrations therefor.

by writing
Definition statement

This place covers:

Reproducing of handwriting.

Signatures.

Pens on carriages (plotters).

by the selective combination of two or more non-identical printing elements
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

With multiple print heads of different type

B41J 3/546

from an assembly of identical printing elements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Matrix printer print quality adjustment;

Print resolution adjustment;

Interlacing for printers not being of the ink-jet type.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ink-jet subjects not having resolution change

B41J 2/2103 - B41J 2/215

With multiple print heads of different type

B41J 3/546

Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the digital output data using matrix printers, e.g. individual print element control for printing letters

G06K 15/10

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Printing elements

e.g. nozzles, electrodes, LED's to form dots on a material to be printed (print media)

Identical printing elements

e.g. an array of nozzles

NLQ

Near letter quality, which means high print quality

Registration/registering

In color printing the method of correlating the overlapping colours on one single position of an image

Print resolution

printing at a predetermined dot density

Dot density

number of dots per unit of surface

Raster

line or grid with a predetermined dot density

{with special adaptations characterised by dot size (B41J 2/2121 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Print heads other than of the ink jet type.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Multi-colour printing characterised by dot size, e.g. combinations of printed dots of different diameter

B41J 2/2121

{using dot arrays providing selective dot disposition modes, e.g. different dot densities for high speed and high-quality printing, array line selections for multi-pass printing, or dot shifts for character inclination (B41J 2/2132 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Print quality control characterised by dot disposition, e.g. for reducing white stripes or banding

B41J 2/2132

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For changing the angle between a print element array axis and the printing line, e.g. for dot density changes

B41J 25/003

serial printer type
Definition statement

This place covers:

Printers with a print head reciprocating over the material to be printed in order to print a single line or swath, e.g. geometry aspects as columns/rows of print elements (monochrome) or functional aspects as inclination of characters (matrix printers).

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ink jet nozzle arrangements for serial printing

B41J 2/15

Features not dealing with the colouring process per se, e.g. construction of printers or heads, driving circuit adaptations

B41J 2/2103

Movements parallel to the plane of printing other than reciprocating

B41J 25/003, B41J 25/005

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Serial printer

printer with a print head reciprocating over the material in order to print a single line or swath

Line head printer

page-width printer printing at least one raster line at the same time

line printer type
Definition statement

This place covers:

Page-width printers printing at least one raster line at the same time.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ink jet nozzle arrangements for line printing

B41J 2/155

Movements parallel to the plane of printing other than reciprocating

B41J 25/001

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Serial printer

printer with a print head reciprocating over the material in order to print a single line or swath.

Line printer type

page-width printer printing at least one raster line at the same time.

Arrangement for printing a discrete number of tones, not covered by group B41J 2/205, e.g. applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking process (B41J 2/525 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Arrangement for multi-color printing, not covered by group B41J 2/21, e.g. applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking process

B41J 2/525

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ink jet

B41J 2/205, B41J 2/21

For photomechanical production

G03F 5/00

Gradual grey tones

H04N

Arrangement for multi-colour printing, not covered by group B41J 2/21, e.g. applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking process
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ink jet printers

B41J 2/21

For photomechanical production

G03F 3/00

Colour printing in general

H04N

Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed
Definition statement

This place covers:

In particular bar code printers, flat-bed ink-jet printers, ink-jet printers for printing on bank books, passports or the like, portable printers, hand-held printers, stamp-type ink-jet printers, printers for printing on CDs or DVDs, ink-jet printers for printing on three-dimensional objects, label printers, ink-jet printers for printing on textile, printers for printing on the front and on the back of sheets or continuous material.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Cryptographic typewriters

G09C 3/00

for printing downwardly on flat surfaces, e.g. of books, drawings, boxes {, envelopes, e.g. flat-bed ink-jet printers}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Selective printing mechanisms for portability

B41J 3/36

Selective printing mechanisms for marking on special material

B41J 3/407

Selective printing mechanisms for printing on disk-shaped media, e.g. CDs

B41J 3/4071

Selective printing mechanisms for printing on three-dimensional objects

B41J 3/4073

Tape printers; Label printers

B41J 3/4075

Selective printing mechanisms for printing on rewritable, bistable "electronic paper" by a focused electric or magnetic field

B41J 3/4076

Selective printing mechanisms for printing on textile

B41J 3/4078

Conveyor belts

B41J 11/007, B41J 13/08, B41J 15/048

Flat page-size platens

B41J 11/06

Drawing instruments

B43L 13/00

Automatic drafting machines

B43L 13/022

for portability {, i.e. hand-held printers or laptop printers (B41J 3/4075 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Tape printers; label printers

B41J 3/4075

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Printers with reduced dimensions

B41J 29/023

Stackable printers

B41J 29/026

Manually-controlled or manually-operable label dispensers having printing equipment

B65C 11/02

for embossing, e.g. for making matrices for stereotypes
Definition statement

This place covers:

Marking devices having a set of marking elements, for example a set of numerals, wherein each marking element can be selected and used independently from the others in order to carry out the impression operation.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Surface shaping, e.g. embossing

B29C 59/00

Mechanical deformation of paper or cardboard without removing material

B31F 1/00

Machines or apparatus for embossing decorations or marks

B44B 5/00

hand-held
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Manually-controlled or manually-operable label dispensers having printing equipment

B65C 11/02

for marking on special material
References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Apparatus or processes for manufacturing printed circuits by printing or dispensing a conductive paste or ink

H05K 3/1241

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Methods of making colour filters, e.g. printing

G02F 1/133516

{Printing on disk-shaped media, e.g. CDs}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Recording by optical means, e.g. recording using a thermal beam of optical radiation

G11B 7/00

Guiding record carriers from consecutive-access magazine of disc records, e.g. for optically recording on CDs

G11B 17/08

{Tape printers; Label printers}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Tape cartridges containing continuous copy material to be printed

B41J 15/044

{printing on rewritable, bistable "electronic paper" by a focused electric or magnetic field}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Displays in which the positions of movable elements are controlled by the application of an electric field

G09F 9/372

Displays in which the positions of movable elements are controlled by the application of a magnetic field

G09F 9/375

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Electrochromism means

the phenomenon displayed by some chemical species of reversibly changing colour when a burst of charge is applied (adjective: electrochromic).

{Printing on textile}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ink-jet dying or printing processes for textile

D06P 5/30

Conversion of colour picture signals to a plurality of signals some of which represent particular mixed colours, e.g. for textile printing

H04N 1/54

Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms having dual functions or combined with, or coupled to, apparatus performing other functions
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Printing mechanisms coupled to typographical composing machines

B41B 27/41

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

RFID

radio frequency identification

Mechanisms producing characters by printing and also producing a record by other means {, e.g. printer combined with RFID writer}
Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

RFID

radio frequency identification

with two or more sets of type or printing elements (B41J 3/60 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Selective printing or marking mechanisms with two or more sets or types of printing elements

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Selective printing mechanisms for printing on both faces of the printing material

B41J 3/60

{with multiple inkjet print heads (B41J 2/17503, B41J 2/2103 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Ink cartridges; ink cartridges mounted on a common carriage

B41J 2/17503

Construction of print heads for multi-colour ink-jet printing; multi-colour print heads mounted on a common carriage

B41J 2/2103

for printing on two or more separate sheets or strips of printing material {being conveyed simultaneously to or through the printing zone} (B41J 3/54 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

The cases of two or more cut sheets or at least one cut sheet and at least one strip of printing material that are conveyed simultaneously to or through the printing zone.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Selective printing mechanisms with two or more sets or types of printing elements

B41J 3/54

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Multiple web-feeding apparatus

B41J 15/18

Multiple web-feeding apparatus for webs superimposed during printing

B41J 15/20

Multiple web-feeding apparatus for feeding webs in separate paths during printing

B41J 15/22

Multiple web-feeding apparatus with means for registering the webs with each other

B41J 15/24

Devices or arrangements for controlling character selection (methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers G06K 7/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers:

G06K 7/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Interpreting

G06K 3/00

Character or syllable selected by means of keys or keyboards of the typewriter type
Definition statement

This place covers:

Keyboards for type-writers.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Keyboards not for type-writers

G06F 3/02

{Keyboard overlays}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For computer use

G06F 3/023

Multiple-action keys, e.g. keys depressed by two or more amounts or movable in two or more directions to effect different functions or selections
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. repeat actions for type-writers.

Character or syllable selection controlled by recorded information
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

characterised by storage of recorded information
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. font or memory cartridges.

Type-selecting or type-actuating mechanisms (index setting B41J 5/02)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Index setting

B41J 5/02

{Type-selecting actions or mechanisms by unusual means, e.g. for use by physically disabled persons}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Control means for physically disabled persons in general

A61F 4/00

Preventing rebound or clash of levers or type members
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. print sequence control for type-writers.

Selecting arrangements applied to type-carriers rotating during impression
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. carrousel type carriers for type-writers.

Timed impression, e.g. without impact
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. accelerated or delayed impression for type-writers.

Type carrier arrested in selected position by electromagnetic means
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Output mechanism with printing mechanisms

G06C 11/04

Type-face selected by combinations of two movements of type carrier
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. selection over the shortest rotation in type-writers.

Selecting arrangements including combinations, permutation, summation, or aggregation means
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Apparatus or local circuits for transmitting or receiving codes wherein each character is represented by the same number of equal-length code element - at the receiving end, using aggregate motion translation

H04L 17/26

Impact adjustment; Means to give uniformity of impression (B41J 9/46, B41J 9/48 take precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

For deciding or adjusting hammer-firing time

B41J 9/46

For deciding or adjusting hammer- drive energy

B41J 9/48

Means checking correctness of setting
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. control of selected characters for type-writers

Hammer-impression mechanisms
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media76.jpg

Hammers; Arrangements thereof
Definition statement

This place covers:

General features.

of more than one hammer, e.g. one for each character position
Definition statement

This place covers:

Hammer banks.

Means for operating hammers to effect impression
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mechanisms for quiet printing, mechanical means for print density adjustment.

in which mechanical power is applied under electromagnetic control
Definition statement

This place covers:

Preloaded springs.

Control for hammer-impression mechanisms
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits.

General features.

Noise reduction.

for deciding or adjusting hammer-firing time
Definition statement

This place covers:

Flight time adjustment.

Print intensity adjustment by flight time control.

for deciding or adjusting hammer-drive energy
Definition statement

This place covers:

Print intensity adjustment by drive energy control.

for compensating for the variations of printer drive conditions, e.g. for compensating for the variation of temperature or current supply
Definition statement

This place covers:

Also compensating for source voltage variations, paper feed variations.

for checking the operation of print hammers
Definition statement

This place covers:

In general: limiting the number of fired hammers.

Detection of the impact.

Preventing overheating.

Devices or arrangements  {of selective printing mechanisms, e.g. ink-jet printers or thermal printers,} for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form (script supports connected to the typewriter or printer B41J 29/15)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Inventions that are independent from the length of the copy material (the copy material therefore including cut sheets and continuous webs), e.g. ink-jet printers with irradiating or cutting devices.

Relationships with other classification places

media77.jpg

The preceding image includes references to B41J, B41J 11/00, B41J 13/00, B41J 15/00, B65H, H04N, H04N 1/04, G03G, and G03G 15/00.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Script supports connected to the typewriter or printer

B41J 29/15

Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Devices or arrangements specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in short lengths, e.g. sheets

B41J 13/00

Devices or arrangements specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in continuous form, e.g. webs

B41J 15/00

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "recording medium", "paper to be printed" and "copy material"
{Curl smoothing, i.e. smoothing down corrugated printing material, e.g. by pressing means acting on wrinkled printing material}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means for tensioning webs in general

B41J 15/16

Means for tensioning webs in selective printing or marking devices

B41J 15/165

Smoothers in general

B65H 5/36, B65H 29/52

Taking out curl from webs in general

B65H 23/34

Article bending or stiffening arrangements

B65H 29/70

Decurling sheets after fixing process in copying machines

G03G 15/6576

{Handling wide copy materials}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Selective printing machines which are designed such that they allow to handle copy materials being wider than "usual" copy materials.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Selective printing machines adapted to print on wide cut sheets

B41J 13/0072

{for treating before, during or after printing or for uniform coating or laminating the copy material before or after printing (selective coating B41J 2/2114)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Selective coating, i.e. coating dot by dot

B41J 2/2114

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Methods of application of ink fixing material by inkjet printers

B41M 5/0011

Methods of after-treatment of prints relating to the nature of material

B41M 7/00

Methods of after-treatment of prints using protective coatings or layers

B41M 7/0027

{using irradiation}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Methods of after-treatment of prints using UV radiation

B41M 7/0081

Methods of after-treatment of prints using IR radiation

B41M 7/009

{Handling copy materials differing in thickness (B41J 11/20 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Platen adjustments for varying the strength of impression, for a varying number of papers or for alignment

B41J 11/20

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Movable mechanisms for print heads with print gap adjustment mechanisms

B41J 25/308

{Guides in the printing zone, e.g. guides for preventing contact of conveyed sheets with printhead}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Guides in the printing section for copy material in short lengths

B41J 13/14

{Means for printing without leaving a margin on at least one edge of the copy material, e.g. edge-to-edge printing}
Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "borderless printing", "marginless printing", "bleed printing", "full bleed printing" and "edge-to-edge printing"
{Conveyor belts or like feeding devices}
References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Conveyor belts specially adapted for handling sheets

B41J 13/08

Conveyor belts specially adapted for handling copy material in continuous form

B41J 15/048

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Conveyor belts in general

B65G 15/00

Separating articles from piles using endless belts

B65H 3/04

Feeding articles by belts

B65H 5/02

{Detecting type of paper, e.g. by automatic reading of a code that is printed on a paper package or on a paper roll or by sensing the grade of translucency of the paper}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Selecting type of paper

B41J 11/485

Investigating or analysing materials by the use of optical means

G01N 21/00

Investigating moving sheets

G01N 21/86

Flat page-size platens {or smaller flat platens having a greater size than line-size platens (B41J 11/0085 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Using suction for maintaining printing material flat

B41J 11/0085

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Flat-bed ink-jet printer

B41J 3/28

Platen-shift mechanisms; Driving gear therefor
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Platen adjustments for varying the strength of impression, for a varying number of papers, for wear or for alignment

B41J 11/20

Platen adjustments for varying the strength of impression, for a varying number of papers, for wear or for alignment {, or for print gap adjustment}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with print gap adjustment mechanisms

B41J 25/308

Mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with print pressure adjustment mechanisms

B41J 25/312

Paper-carriage guides or races
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Print head carriage guides

B41J 19/00

Controlling {printing material conveyance for accurate alignment of the printing material with the printhead; Print registering}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Controlling the print head to print on accurate positions on the copy material

B41J 11/008

Control of the transport of cut sheets

B41J 13/0009

Apparatus for condensed record, tally strip, or like work using two or more papers, or sets of papers {, e.g. devices for switching over from handling of copy material in sheet form to handling of copy material in continuous form and vice versa or point-of-sale printers comprising means for printing on continuous copy material, e.g. journal for tills, and on single sheets, e.g. cheques or receipts (B41J 15/042 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Supporting or feeding devices for loading rolled-up continuous copy material into printers, e.g. for replacing a used-up paper roll; Point-of-sale printers with openable casings allowing access to the rolled-up continuous copy material

B41J 15/042

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Simultaneous conveyance of sheets or strips

B41J 3/62

{Means for selecting a type of copy material amongst different types of copy material in the printing apparatus}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Detecting type of paper

B41J 11/009

in which two or more papers or sets are separately fed in the same direction towards the printing position
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Multiple web-feeding apparatus

B41J 15/18

Multiple web-feeding apparauts for webs superimposed during printing

B41J 15/20

Multiple web-feeding apparatus for feeding webs in separate paths during printing

B41J 15/22

Multiple web-feeding apparatus with means for registering the webs with each other

B41J 15/24

with different feed rates
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Multiple web-feeding apparatus

B41J 15/18

Multiple web-feeding apparatus for webs superimposed during printing

B41J 15/20

Multiple web-feeding apparatus for feeding webs in separate paths during printing

B41J 15/22

Multiple web-feeding apparatus with means for registering the webs with each other

B41J 15/24

specially constructed to facilitate storage or transport of typewriter
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Selective printing mechanisms for portability

B41J 3/36

Supply holders for sheets or fan-folded webs, e.g. shelves, tables, scrolls, pile holders
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sheet holders, retainers, movable guides, or stationary guides

B41J 13/10

Sheet holders, retainers, movable guides, or stationary guides for the sheet feeding section

B41J 13/103

Sheet holders, retainers, movable guides, or stationary guides for the sheet output section

B41J 13/106

Applications of cutting devices
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Cutting tools in general, independent from the field where the cutting tools are used

B26D 1/00

Devices or arrangements {of selective printing mechanisms, e.g. ink-jet printers or thermal printers,} specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in short lengths, e.g. sheets
Definition statement

This place covers:

In particular selective printing mechanisms comprising devices for the control of the conveyance of sheets, paper sheet guides, rotatable drums for holding sheets by suction or by clamps.

Relationships with other classification places

Hierarchical relationship between B65H, H04N, B41J and G03G:

media88.jpeg

Table #

CPC Area

Description

Table I

B65H

Handling thin or filamentary material, e.g. sheets, webs, cables

Table II

H04N 1/04

Scanning arrangements, i.e. arrangements for the displacement of active reading or reproducing elements relative to the original or reproducing medium, or vice versa

Table III

B41J 11/00

Devices or arrangements of selective printing mechanisms, e.g. ink-jet printers or thermal printers, for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

(same as above)

B41J 13/00

Devices or arrangements of selective printing mechanisms, e.g. ink-jet printers or thermal printers, specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in short lengths, e.g. sheets

(same as above)

B41J 15/00

Devices or arrangements of selective printing mechanisms, e.g. ink-jet printers or thermal printers, specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in continuous form, e.g. webs

Table IV

G03G 15/00

Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern

Delimitation of B41J 13/00 - B65H

media89.jpeg

Table #

CPC Area

Description

Table I

B41J 13/00

Devices or arrangements of selective printing mechanisms, e.g. ink-jet printers or thermal printers, specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in short lengths, e.g. sheets

Table II

B65H

Handling thin or filamentary material, e.g. sheets, webs, cables

Table III

B65H

Handling thin or filamentary material, e.g. sheets, webs, cables

Table IV

B41J 13/00

Devices or arrangements of selective printing mechanisms, e.g. ink-jet printers or thermal printers, specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in short lengths, e.g. sheets

{in the sheet input section of automatic paper handling systems}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Guides for the sheet feeding section

B41J 13/103

{in the printing section of automatic paper handling systems}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Rollers

B41J 13/02

Guides for the printing section

B41J 13/14

{in the output section of automatic paper handling systems}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Rollers

B41J 13/02

Guides in the output section

B41J 13/106

{concerning sheet refeed sections of automatic paper handling systems, e.g. intermediate stackers (printing on both faces B41J 3/60)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Printing on both faces

B41J 3/60

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "duplex printing", "printing on both faces" and "perfect printing"
{Handling thick cut sheets, e.g. greeting cards or postcards, larger than credit cards, e.g. using means for enabling or facilitating the conveyance of thick sheets (B41J 11/20, B41J 13/12 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Platen adjustments for varying the strength of impression, for a varying number of papers, for wear or for alignment

B41J 11/20

Devices specially adapted for small cards, envelopes, or the like, e.g. credit cards, business cards

B41J 13/12

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Adjustment by moving the print head

B41J 25/308

Rollers (roller platens B41J 11/04)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Roller platens

B41J 11/04

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Rollers for conveying in general

B65G 39/00

Separating articles from piles using friction rollers in general

B65H 3/06

Feeding articles by rollers in general

B65H 5/06

{Conveyor} bands or like feeding devices
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Conveyor belts adapted both for handling copy material in sheet form and in continuous form

B41J 11/007

{for the sheet feeding section}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Supports and (paper feeding) cassettes for supporting articles horizontally in general

B65H 1/04

{for the sheet output section}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Pile receivers in general

B65H 31/00

specially adapted for {small} cards, envelopes, or the like {, e.g. credit cards, cut visiting cards}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Handling thick cut sheets larger than credit cards

B41J 13/0063

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

"visting cards" means

"business cards"

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "visiting cards" and "business cards"
Registering devices
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Registering, e.g. orientating, articles in general

B65H 9/00

Devices or arrangements {of selective printing mechanisms, e.g. ink-jet printers or thermal printers,} specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in continuous form, e.g. webs
Definition statement

This place covers:

In particular selective printing mechanisms comprising devices for feeding web material and devices for tensioning web material

Relationships with other classification places

media77.jpg

The preceding image includes references to B41J 11/00, B41J 13/00, B41J 15/00, B65H, G03G 15/00, and H04N 1/04.

Supporting, feeding, or guiding devices; Mountings for web rolls or spindles
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Unwinding mechanisms not restricted to selective printing mechanisms for a continuous web depletion

B65H 16/00

{Conveyor belts or like feeding devices (B41J 11/007 takes precedence)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Conveyor belts adapted both for handling copy material in sheet form and in continuous form

B41J 11/007

for webs superimposed during printing
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Machines for separating superposed webs

B65H 41/00

Mechanisms for manipulating page-width impression-transfer material, e.g. carbon paper (in manifolding devices B41L)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Thermal transfer webs.

Ink donor films (IDF).

Page-wide ribbons.

IDF-identification means.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

In manifolding devices

B41L

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sheet material for duplicating or marking

B41M 5/00

Webs supplied from reels or spools attached to the machine
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans

B65H 75/02

Detachable carriers or holders for impression-transfer material mechanism
Definition statement

This place covers:

In general cassettes

Alarms, indicators, or feed-disabling devices responsible to material breakage or exhaustion
Definition statement

This place covers:

Reading the IDF

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For colour ribbons

B41J 35/18

For ribbons

B41J 35/36

for dealing with the impression-transfer material after use
Definition statement

This place covers:

Peeling-off.

Deleting the information.

for retracting sheets for re-use
Definition statement

This place covers:

Re-use of impression material by using all the remaining ink thereofl

Character- or line-spacing mechanisms
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mechanisms for relative movement in two directions between printing element and medium to be printed and parallel thereto:

  • Type-writer carriages.
  • Serial (reciprocating) or oscillating print head constructions for selective printing devices.
  • Print head carriage guide bar constructions.
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Superimposed movements for serial printing

B41J 25/005

Key actions

B41J 25/02

Special rules of classification

Dot printer with continuous moving drum and serial printing head: B41J 19/16

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Character and line spacing

in type-writers generally performed by means of the paper carriage while the print element head is stationary. Character spacing is in the direction of the paper width and line spacing is in the direction of the paper sheet length

Main- and sub-scanning

In modern serial dot printers the character (dot) spacing is generally done by the movement of the print head over the width of a paper sheet (main-scanning) and the line spacing is done by paper movement (sub-scanning). If a drum is continuously rotating during printing, then this movement is called main-scanning. The step-wise movement of the print head after one revolution of the drum is then called sub-scanning

Fast-scanning

see main scanning

Slow-scanning

see sub-scanning

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "print head-carrier," "print head-shuttle" or "print head-carriage"
{Cable or belt constructions for driving print, type or paper-carriages, e.g. attachment, tensioning means}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mechanical constructions making the movement of carriages possible or easier.

Also including the electrical cables (guiding, attachment).

Sound-deadening or shock-absorbing devices or measures therein (B41J 19/38 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Adapted for silent return (type-writers)

B41J 19/38

with means for effecting line or character spacing in either direction
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

X,Y-printers with a print head movable in X- and Y-direction

B41J 11/00

{with a reciprocating print head printing in both directions across the paper width}
Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "bidirectional or rearward" and "forward/backward printing"
Special spacing mechanisms for circular, spiral, or diagonal-printing apparatus
Definition statement

This place covers:

Serial print head above a rotating drum (spiral printing with main-scanning in rotating direction and sub-scanning in the width direction);

A continuously rotating drum with a print head carriage movement after each drum rotation (circular dot bands).

media81.jpg

Character-spacing or back-spacing mechanisms; Carriage return or release devices therefor
Definition statement

This place covers:

Only type-writers.

The carriage of a typewriter is for carrying paper.

Positive-feed character-spacing mechanisms (controlled by escapements B41J 19/52)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers.

Ink jet, matrix or optical print head carriers moving along the width of material to be printed (fast-scan direction).

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Typewriters controlled by escapements

B41J 19/52

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Print head movement in slow-scan direction parallel to the rotating axis of a drum or belt

B41J 19/16

Lead-screws in general

F16H

Motors and control for carriage movement in general

H02P, H02K

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "print head-carrier, -carriage, -shuttle, and -chute"
  • "pitch, spacing and distance"
{Drive control means for carriage movement}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group

media82.jpg

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used with the meaning indicated:

"main/fast-scan direction"

"reciprocating movement direction of the print head carriage"

"sub/slow-scan direction"

"paper feed direction"

{Position or speed detectors therefor}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group

media83.jpg

acting by friction or gripping effect
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Pawl and ratchet
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Electromagnetically-operated mechanisms
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Linear motors therefor.

{Linear drive mechanisms for carriage movement}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Printers using a linear motor instead of a cable, belt or lead screw to move the print head carrier

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group

media84.jpg

Differential or variable-spacing arrangements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Escapement-feed character-spacing mechanisms
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Auxiliary feed or adjustment devices
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Carriage-release mechanisms
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Carriage

a paper supporting device moving sideward during printing (opposed to a print head carriage of e.g. an ink jet printer)

Carriage-return mechanisms, e.g. manually actuated
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

with special means to maintain character-spacing or back- spacing elements in engagement during case-shift or like movement
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Line-spacing mechanisms (special line-feeds, e.g. long feeds B41J 11/36)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Paper movement in horizontal line direction for only type-writers.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Special line-feeds, e.g. long feeds

B41J 11/36

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Paper transport other than for type-writers

B41J 11/00, B41J 13/00, B41J 15/00

Column, tabular or like printing arrangements; Means for centralising short lines (carriage-release mechanisms B41J 19/66)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Carrier-release mechanisms therefor

B41J 19/66

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Tabulating

B41J 25/18

Mechanisms for initiating, effecting, skipping, or stopping tabulation movement; Means for centralising short lines
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Adjusting side margins for type-writers

B41J 29/50

characterised by denominational arrangements
Definition statement

This place covers:

In general: decimal tabulation for type-writers.

controlled by stored information
Definition statement

This place covers:

Memory.

Register controlled

Power drives for actions or mechanisms (B41J 9/00 {, B41J 19/305}  take precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Hammer printers

B41J 9/00

Linear motors

B41J 19/305

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

with driven mechanism arranged to be clutched to continuously- operating power source
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Mechanism driven by cams engaging rotating roller
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Mechanism driven by through an oscillating or reciprocating member
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Mechanisms driven by a spring tensioned by power means
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Continuously-cycling drives
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Fluid-pressure power drives
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Electromagnetic power drives, e.g. applied to key levers
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
Definition statement

This place covers:

Selective printers, including type-writers, ink jet and thermal printers.

{Mechanisms for bodily moving print heads or carriages parallel to the paper surface}
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. page-width print heads moving during printing for compensating for print element aberrations.

References
References out of a residual place

Examples of places in relation to which this place is residual:

Character- or line-spacing mechanisms

B41J 19/00, B41J 19/20

{for changing the angle between a print element array axis and the printing line, e.g. for dot density changes}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Serial and line print heads.

References
References out of a residual place

Examples of places in relation to which this place is residual:

Dot arrays providing selective dot disposition modes

B41J 2/5056

{for serial printing movements superimposed to character- or line-spacing movements}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Serial print heads only.

E.g. mechanical alignment parallel to the printing medium

media85.png

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Serial print head

reciprocating print head printing during its movement along the width of a medium to be printed (main-scanning)

Line-spacing

movement step in the length direction of the printing material, by means of a medium transport system (sub-scanning)

{for oscillating, e.g. page-width print heads provided with counter-balancing means or shock absorbers}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Linear drive mechanisms for carriage movement

B41J 19/305

Key actions for specified purposes
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

In general: repeat actions

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For repeat keys

B41J 5/28

Back spacing
Definition statement

This place covers:

Only for type-writers, in general half-space keys.

Auxiliary type mechanisms for printing distinguishing marks, e.g. for accenting, using dead or half-dead key arrangements, for printing marks in telegraph printers to indicate that machine is receiving
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

for aligning characters for impression
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

In machines using index setting

B41J 5/02

Case-shift mechanisms; Fount-change arrangements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

References
References out of a residual place

Examples of places in relation to which this place is residual:

Platen-shift mechanisms; Driving gear therefor

B41J 11/14

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Key actions

B41J 25/08

Bodily-movable mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface
References
References out of a residual place

Examples of places in relation to which this place is residual:

Type carriers sliding for impression

B41J 1/36

Type carriers swinging for impression

B41J 1/40

Line print heads movable towards a cleaning unit

B41J 2/16588

with print gap adjustment mechanisms
Definition statement

This place covers:

With print gap adjustment means on the print head carriage (e.g. for rotation around a guide bar or using a rotatable eccentric bearing).

With print gap adjustment means between the print head and its carriage.

With print gap adjustment means on the printer frame (e.g. for rotation of an eccentric carriage guide shaft).

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References
References out of a residual place

Examples of places in relation to which this place is residual:

By platen movement

B41J 11/20

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Print gap

Distance between print head nozzle plate and print medium

Guide shaft/rod/bar/rails

Guiding means supporting and guiding a reciprocating print head carriage

Print/printing medium/media

Material to be printed, e.g. a sheet of paper

Carriage/carrier

Print head holder which is movable over the width of a print medium

Platen

Surface supporting the print medium, e.g. flat surface or a rotating drum

with print pressure adjustment mechanisms, e.g. pressure-on-the paper mechanisms
References
References out of a residual place

Examples of places in relation to which this place is residual:

By platen movement

B41J 11/20

with tilting motion mechanisms relative to paper surface
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Mounting in general

B41J 25/304

Impression mechanisms in which a roller co-operates with stationary type-faces
Definition statement

This place covers:

Type-writers only.

Bodily-changeable print heads or carriages
Definition statement

This place covers:

Print head carriages, e.g. for ink jet.

Interchangeable type-writer print heads, as disks.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms with types or dies mounted on endless bands or the like

B41J 1/20

Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms with types or dies mounted on carriers rotatable for selection

B41J 1/22

Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms with types or dies on spherical, truncated-spherical, or like surfaces

B41J 1/60

Special rules of classification

For mounting an ink-jet cartridge into a carriage, see also B41J 2/1752 (only ink jet).

Inking apparatus
Definition statement

This place covers:

Inking in type-writers and desk-top printers other than of the ink-jet type.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ink supply in ink-jet printers

B41J 2/175

Ink ribbons or devices to apply ink to them

B41J 31/00, B41J 32/00, B41J 33/00, B41J 35/00

{with reduced dimensions}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms constructed for portability

B41J 3/36

Special supports, platforms or trolleys for supporting machines on tables
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Office furniture

A47B 21/00

Sound-deadening devices embodied in machines
References
References out of a residual place

Examples of places in relation to which this place is residual:

Sound-deadening or shock-absorbing devices or measures therein

B41J 19/04

Script supports connected to the typewriter or printer
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Tables, desks, office furniture, in general

A47B

Auxiliary receptacles for articles, e.g. erasers, pencils
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Erasers, rubbers, or erasing devices; Holders therefor

B43L 19/00

Cleaning arrangements
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Cleaning of nozzles

B41J 2/165

Conditioning of ink supply systems (inside/outside)

B41J 2/1707, B41J 2/1714

Mechanisms for rendering the print visible to the operator
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ink-ribbon shifts

B41J 35/20

Devices, non-fluid media or methods for cancelling, correcting errors, underscoring or ruling
Definition statement

This place covers:

Only type writers

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Erasers, rubbers or erasing devices; Holders therefor

B43L 19/00

Correcting fluids, e.g. media for correction of typographical errors by coating

C09D 10/00

Writing or like instruments in holders or guides
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. vertical ruling.

for cancelling or correcting errors by overprinting
References
References out of a residual place

Examples of places in relation to which this place is residual:

Ink ribbons characterised by areas carrying media for obliteration or removal of typing errors

B41J 31/09

Cooling or ventilating arrangements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Using fans or cooling liquid.

Detecting ambient temperature

Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine {; Controlling or analysing mechanical parameters involving printing of test patterns}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Printing and reading test patterns requiring mechanical action.

Battery mounted in the printer.

Wireless communication between the carriage and the printer.

References
References out of a residual place

Examples of places in relation to which this place is residual:

Nozzle failure detection

B41J 2/16579, B41J 2/2142

Ink residue control

B41J 2/17566

Density or colour adjustment

B41J 2/2132

Print head/platen gap adjustment

B41J 25/308, B41J 11/20

Using a test patch for electrographic printers

G03G 15/5058

Applications of alarms, e.g. responsive to approach of end of line
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Responsive to transfer-material breakage or exhaustion

B41J 17/36

Responsive to ink-ribbon breakage or exhaustion

B41J 35/36

Ink ribbons; Renovating or testing ink ribbons
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Page width ink ribbons

B41J 17/00

Sheet material for duplicating or marking

B41M 5/00

Storing webs or tapes, e.g. on reels

B65H 75/00

Coated or treated non-woven strips or sheets used as ink ribbons

D21H

Ink-ribbon cartridges
Definition statement

This place covers:

Contains general features about ink ribbon cartridges and those with ribbons stored on spools.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For page width ink ribbons

B41J 17/32

Magnetic tape cassettes

G11B

Apparatus or arrangements for feeding ink ribbons or like character-size impression-transfer material
Definition statement

This place covers:

In general, ribbon-sized impression transfer material. But in some cases, also page-width impression transfer material if B41J 17/00 does not provide an appropriate entry.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ink-ribbon cartridges

B41J 32/00

{Ribbon spools}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For page width ink ribbons

B41J 17/32

Spools in general

B65H 75/00

and extending parallel to the length of the platen
Definition statement

This place covers:

Containing in general correcting ribbons on separate holders

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Mechanisms permitting the selective use of a plurality of ink ribbons

B41J 35/22

for ensuring maximum life of the ribbon (B41J 33/38 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Slow, e.g. "creep", feed mechanisms

B41J 33/38

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

By adjustment of vibrator mechanisms

B41J 35/14

Other apparatus or arrangements associated with, or incorporated in, ink-ribbon mechanisms
Definition statement

This place covers:

Impression transfer ribbon material.

Also covering page-width impression transfer material in the sub-groups if B41J 17/00 does not provide an appropriate entry.

In general the heating or pre-heating of ink ribbons.

adjustable, e.g. for case shift
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Key actions

B41J 25/02

Multicolour arrangements
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Vibrator mechanisms; Driving gear therefor

B41J 35/10

Colour picture communication systems

H04N 1/46

Mechanisms permitting the selective use of a plurality of ink ribbons
Definition statement

This place covers:

Use of correcting ribbons.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ribbons placed on separate holders

B41J 33/06

Ink-ribbon shields or backings
Definition statement

This place covers:

Avoiding "ghost printing"

Feeding the ink ribbon to waste after use
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. deleting the printed text from the ribbon or making the text illegible.

Moving nozzle or nozzle plate
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For moving nozzle or nozzle plate made of thermal bend actuator

B41J 2002/14435