Abstract: Greater throughput is possible by using wider print swaths in each traverse across printing media. Multiple print cartridges are mounted to be offset from each other in the media scan direction (X-axis). The amount of offset is adjustably varied by selective on/off control of individual printing elements as well as by relative mechanical movement of the print cartridges.

Abstract: Greater throughput is possible by using wider print swaths in each traverse across printing media. Multiple print cartridges are mounted to be offset from each other in the media scan direction (X-axis). The amount of offset is adjustably varied by selective on/off control of individual printing elements as well as by relative mechanical movement of the print cartridges.

Abstract: A hybrid sample rate servo motor employing rate feedback compensation is disclosed. The system employs a shaft encoder having a predetermined resolution to provide position data which are pulses indicating the shaft has moved another resolution unit. Under high motor velocity conditions the rate compensation feedback loop is operated at a conventional constant sample rate. Under low velocity conditions, the sample rate at which the rate compensation feedback loop is operated is modified so that rate samples are taken and calculated only when new position data are available from the motor encoder. Rate quantization error is substantially reduced, thereby leading to more robust controller operation.

Abstract: A pen-lift system is provided which can achieve high speed plotting while maintaining line definition of drafting quality. The system includes a pen-lift mechanism for raising and lowering the pen, a pressure control system in order to provide a constant pen force for different kinds of pens, a velocity controller for varying the vertical velocity of the pen in response to changes in platen height and relative lateral pen position, and a position controller for sensing the present pen height relative to the platen and for actuating the pen-lift mechanism to achieve the desired pen-lift heights for different plotting situations.