Temperature controller for ink jet printing

摘要

A temperature control unit is incorporated directly into the printhead of an ink jet printing system to provide temperature control. The temperature control system includes a heat pump assembly consisting of at least one thermoelectric device, coupled to a heat exchanger through which the ink flows. The thermoelectric device conveys heat to or from the heat exchanger carrying the ink depending upon actual ink temperature versus a desired temperature. If the ink is too hot, excess heat is dumped to a heat exchanger (or second heat exchanger) which may be air or liquid cooled. In the event that the ink is too cool, the electrical current to the TED is reversed and heat is pumped to the ink from the heat exchangers.