摘要 |
<p>A method of detecting a blockage within an inkjet nozzle is provided. The inkjet nozzle comprises an ink chamber, an opening defined in a roof of the ink chamber, an actuating arm movable between a rest position and an operating position, and a movement sensor associated with the actuating arm. The movement sensor is activated by movement of the actuating arm to a predetermined position beyond the operating position. The detection method comprises the steps of: (a) passing a blockage-detecting current pulse having a predetermined duration t<SUB>p </SUB>through the actuating arm; (b) detecting for movement of the actuating arm to the predetermined position; and (c) comparing the detected movement with the movement in an unblocked condition. The movement of the actuating arm in a blocked condition is less than movement of the actuating arm in an unblocked condition.</p> |