Paper circulating assembly for field sequential multi-color printing

Abstract

A paper circulating assembly is provided for use in a field sequential printing apparatus such as a facsimile. The facsimile includes an ink ribbon having multiple color ink segments. A piece of paper is conveyed ultimately into a printing paper path and to the ribbon and printing platen for printing. The printing platen conveys the leading edge of the printed paper to a gripping arm of the paper circulating assembly. After a predetermined time period, the leading edge of the paper rests in the gap created between the gripping arm and the gripping platen, and the gripping arm closes against the gripping platen. Thereafter, the secured leading edge is conveyed to a recirculating paper path which flows into the printing paper path, and stays in this position until the trailing edge of the printing paper is just about to enter the printing paper path. During this time, the portion of the paper which lies between the gripping arm and the printing platen gathers in a loop in a paper loop area. Afterwards, the gripping platen is rotated and the gripping arm moves away from the surface of the gripping platen, thereby releasing the leading edge of the printing paper. Further rotation conveys the leading edge of the paper into the printing paper path, just behind the trailing edge of the printing paper for printing the subsequent color of ink. This process continues until all ink colors have been printed onto the paper.