Abstract: A system and method for sensing the positioning the printhead in one or more of a standby position, a wipe position, and a printing position uses electrical signals from a drive motor as an indicator of whether the printhead has properly moved to a desired position. As the printhead is tilted to a print position, a first position electrical signal is detected by sampling a resistance on the torque motor at a first time. A second position electrical signal is determined by sampling another resistance on the motor at a second time. A slope is calculated between the first position sample and the second position sample. The calculated slope is analyzed to determine whether the printhead is operating properly. Thus, the need for standalone sensors to determine the positioning of the printhead is eliminated.

Abstract: A locking mechanism in an image processing device is needed to lock a movable element of the image processing device. In embodiments, the locking mechanism has a support member disposed between the driving element and the movable element, the support member being movable between a first position and a second position, a pivot on the support member about which the support member is able to rotate, and a first rotating member on the support member, the first rotating member rotating when the movable element is moved by the driving element, and the locking mechanism is locked when both the first rotating member is stopped from rotating and the support member is rotated from the first position to the second position about the pivot.

Abstract: A system and method for determining proper positioning of the printhead as it travels between first and second positions by sampling an electrical resistance signal of a motor during tilting of the printhead, calculating an average of specified samples at a time, and comparing the calculated average to a predetermined threshold to determine whether the printhead is operating properly. Thus, the need for sensors to determine the positioning of the printhead is eliminated.