Abstract: A method of determining the state of a printhead/cartridge in a thermal inkjet printer. An inkjet printhead undergoes a jetting operation in which a jetting frequency is selected and a corresponding steady state printhead temperature is known. The printhead is heated to the steady state temperature. Then the printhead is jetted with all nozzles for a predetermined period of time. Temperature samples from the printhead are obtained and the change in the printhead temperature for a short period of time is used to determine a slope in the temperature change. From the slope of printhead temperature changes, the ink flow rate through the printhead can be determined. The flow rate of ink through the printhead can be used to determine the various states of the printhead, including out of ink, clogged, deprimed, a taped printhead, etc.

Abstract: A printer that includes a core printer assembly which includes subassemblies capable of printing on media, and a modular assembly of additional electronic devices that supplement to core printer operation, such as different card readers or wireless communication devices. The core printer includes a main circuit board that is connected to a module circuit board that is configured to support the additional electronic devices. The connection is a single multiple-pin connector that allows easy exchange of different module circuit boards supporting different electronic devices during assembly. The module circuit board and the additional electronic devices are all contained within a modular component housing mateable with the rest of a housing supporting the core printer assemblies in a semi-permanent configuration for a finished look. The module circuit board may include a UART that is configured to buffer and control information flow between multiple electronic devices and the main circuit board.

Abstract: An improved shoulder brace having a pair of shock absorbing saddle assemblies and cups for protecting the acromioclavicular and glenohumeral joints is disclosed herein. Each saddle assembly includes a resilient, ring-shaped member for seating over and conforming to its respective acromioclavicular joint. The cups overlie each saddle assembly, and form a shock absorbing air space over each saddle assembly. Additionally, each cup includes anterior and posterior portions for protecting the front of the glenohumeral joint, and the back of the scapula respectively. Finally, each saddle assembly includes an upper arm pad which is attached to its respective saddle by means of an omni-directional hinge joint. The improved shoulder brace provides lightweight and effective protection for the shoulder joints without impairing the agility of the athlete.