Printer solid ink transport and method

摘要

A solid ink delivery system for use with a solid ink stick for use in printers is provided. The solid ink delivery system delivers the stick to a melting station for melting the stick so that the ink may be transferred to media to form an image on the media. The delivery system includes a guide for guiding the stick in a prescribed path. The guide defines an inlet for receiving the stick. The inlet provides unobstructed passage of the stick through the inlet. The guide also defines a channel having a first end and a second end. The first end extends from the inlet. The channel provides unobstructed passage of the stick through the channel. The channel is adapted to contain a plurality of sticks in the channel. The guide further defines an outlet extending from the second end of the channel. The outlet provides unobstructed passage of the stick through the channel. The outlet is positioned below the inlet whereby only gravity is used to advance the sticks from the inlet to the outlet.