Abstract: Described are systems and methods for printing that use an optical sensor that is moveable relative to a print medium, and a mark that is visible to the optical sensor within the range of movement of the optical sensor. The mark provides a fixed and known location that can be used to establish a position of the optical sensor relative to the print medium.

Abstract: An optical encoder comprises an encoder module, an interpolator module coupled to the encoder module, and a modulator module coupled to the interpolator module. The encoder generates a first and second position signals as a function of a light signal modulated by a code wheel. The interpolator module generates a first and second position signals having increased resolution as a function of said first and second position signals. The modulator module generates a first and second modulated position signals as a function of said first and second position signals having increased resolution.

Abstract: A print mechanism and method for printing are disclosed. The print mechanism includes a print head assembly, an actuator for moving the same, and a controller. The print head assembly includes a position detector and a marking device. The position detector includes an imaging device for periodically forming an image of a portion of a print medium. The actuator moves the print head assembly relative to the print medium in a predetermined direction. The controller compares first and second images formed by the imaging device at first and second times, respectively, while the print head assembly moves relative to the print medium and determines a displacement of the print head assembly between the first and second times from the images. The controller causes the marking device to mark the print medium at locations determined by the determined displacement.

Abstract: A print mechanism and method for printing are disclosed. The print mechanism includes a print head assembly, an actuator for moving the same, and a controller. The print head assembly includes a position detector and a marking device. The position detector includes an imaging device for periodically forming an image of a portion of a print medium. The actuator moves the print head assembly relative to the print medium in a predetermined direction. The controller compares first and second images formed by the imaging device at first and second times, respectively, while the print head assembly moves relative to the print medium and determines a displacement of the print head assembly between the first and second times from the images. The controller causes the marking device to mark the print medium at locations determined by the determined displacement.