ЕМКОСТЬ ДЛЯ ЧЕРНИЛ ИЛИ ЧЕРНИЛЬНЫЙ КАРТРИДЖ ДЛЯ СТРУЙНОГО ПРИНТЕРА

Чернильный картридж содержит корпус, сжимаемую емкость с чернилами, помещенную во внутреннее пространство корпуса, уплотнение, через которое может проходить игла или трубка, герметизирующее канал для подачи чернил и/или выходное отверстие сжимаемой емкости, уплотнение, через которое может проходить игла или трубка, герметизирующее расположенный в корпусе канал утилизации отработанных чернил. Вышеуказанный корпус, окружающий сжимаемую емкость и канал подачи чернил, образует приемник чернил, выполненный с возможностью по мере сжатия емкости постепенно принимать в пространство снаружи от сжимаемой емкости, но целиком в пределах корпуса, по меньшей мере, все чернила, содержащиеся в сжимаемой емкости. Сжимаемая емкость с чернилами выполнена в виде полученной выдувным формованием пластиковой емкости с горлышком или головкой и имеет оболочку со смещенным относительно любой центральной оси оболочки отверстием для подачи чернил, причем в оболочке предусмотрен скос или усечение части контура емкости ...

ЭЖЕКЦИОННОЕ УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ НАНЕСЕНИЯ МАТЕРИАЛА ИЗ ЖИДКОСТИ

Изобретение предназначено для принтера и может быть использовано для нанесения жидкого материала. Эжекционное устройство для нанесения материала из жидкости имеет эжекционную ячейку, содержащую используемую жидкость и эжекционный электрод. Ячейка имеет выступ, расположенный в ней так, чтобы контактировать с жидкостью в ячейке более чем одной стороной и образующий заданное местоположение мениска жидкости на отверстии ячейки. Эжекционный электрод расположен внутри отверстия ячейки относительно заданного местоположения мениска. 6 з.п.ф-лы, 6 ил.

Tintenstrahldruckgerät

Verfahren zur Behandlung ausgelassener Tinte, Wiederherstellungsvorrichtung zur Durchführung desselben und Tintenauslassvorrichtung

EINRICHTUNG ZUR WASSERENTFERNUNG AUS DER LOESUNGSMITTELRUECKGEWINNUNGSANLAGE EINES SCHNELLDRUCKERS

In einem Tintenstrahlaufzeichnungsgerät eingebauter Spülungsregler und Spülungssteuerverfahren dafür

Automatische Inbetriebnahme eines Tintendrucksystems für lösungsmittelhaltige Tinte

Tintenstrahldrucksystem

Entlüftungsvorrichtung für Tintenstrahldruckpatronen

Flüssigkeitsausstosskopf, Wiederherstellungsverfahren und Herstellungsverfahren für einen Flüssigkeitsausstosskopf und diesen Kopf verwendende Flüssigkeitsausstossvorrichtung

Tintenstrahldrucker mit einer Reinigungsvorrichtung und Verfahren zum Zusammenbau derselben

Flüssigkeitsausstossvorrichtung und Verfahren zur Wiederherstellung derselben

Pumpeinheit und -verfahren

Tintenstrahldrucker

Flüssigkeitsausstosskopf, Vorrichtung zum Ausstossen von Flüssigkeit und Verfahren zur Wiederherstellung derselben

INK DROP PRINTING

... 1434776 Selective printing A B DICK CO 18 Dec 1973 [29 Dec 1972] 58590/73 Heading B6F In an ink jet printer, sputtering of the electrically charged ink drops on the printing medium is minimized by the creation of a gas flow on to the medium. This can be generated by a fan directed on to the medium, or a porous platen to which vacuum is applied, or a porous electrode which draws the charged ink mist above the printing medium towards and through the electrode.

Ink jet recording apparatus including capping means

Variation of suction applied to a gutter of a continuous inkjet printer

Any droplets that are not deflected onto a substrate during printing are collected in a gutter 2 and are recycled to the reservoir 3 of the ink flow system. The ink droplets are removed from the gutter by suction applied thereto by a controlled solenoid valve 13. The suction may be varied, pulsed or interrupted. The ink is sucked from the gutter through the valve 13 via a duct 14 to a venturi pump 11 and then returned to the reservoir 3. The operation of the valve may be modified in response to any ambient temperature and pressure changes detected by a sensor 30. Other valves suitable for use include rotary, gate, butterfly, flap or similar types.

Ink jet ink handling system

An ink handling system in an ink jet printer. In accordance with the invention an ink handling system is constructed including two ink processing loops. A first relatively low-volume, high pressure ink handling loop or circuit routes ink to an ink jet printhead for directing one or more columns of ink toward a printing medium. A second relatively high volume yet low-pressure loop or circuit routes ink through a number of processing stations which, for example, include ink de-aeration, filtration, and temperature control. The bulk of the processing is performed in this second loop, yet limited processing steps are also performed in the high-pressure, low-volume circuit which directs ink to the printhead. As ink is lost due to evaporation and/or printing on the print medium, the ink is replenished via an ink source which is coupleable to a main ink tank forming a portion of the high-volume ink handling loop.

INK RECORDER FOR THE INK-JET-PROCESS

... 1466840 Selective printing AGFAGEVAERT AG 22 May 1975 [13 July 1974] 22170/75 Heading B6F An ink jet printer includes at least three differently coloured ink jets which are focused on to the same point in the printing plane. Each jet is produced by a nozzle 1 which is electrically earthed, an electrically charged control electrode 2 which causes deflection of selected droplets into an extraction system 3 and a diaphragm 4 through which undeflected droplets pass to the printing plane. The extraction system 3 includes porous walls 6, 7 and an area of reduced pressure 9 behind them.

CLEANING INK PASSAGES OF AN INK JET RECORDING DEVICE

FLUID JET DEVICE

PRINTING APPARATUS AND TAX PROCEDURE FOR THE SUCTION RECOVERY

INK JET PRINTER

INK FEEDING DEVICE IN INK RADIATION RECORDING DEVICE

DEVICE FOR THE DECORATION OF CERAMIC ARTICLES

INK RADIATION RECORDING DEVICE

PROCEDURE FOR THE CLEANING OF A PRINT HEAD ARRANGEMENT OF AN INK RADIATION RECORDING DEVICE

TINTENVERSORGUNGSSYSTEM UND VERFAHREN ZUM REINIGEN EINES DERARTIGEN TINTENVERSORGUNGSSYSTEMS

The invention is an ink supply system (2) for an inkjet printer (1) with a print head assembly (6) comprising at least one print head (7) with one or more nozzles (8) for at least one colour, in which the print head (7) is linked via a first connection line (19) with a supply tank (17), which is connected with an intermediate tank (12) via a filler line with interconnected conveyance means (16) and filter assembly (18), and also via a second connection line (21) with a return tank (22) and with the means (32) to generate a vacuum, through which the pressure differential in the supply tank (17) and/or return tank (22) can be controlled if necessary, which controls a flow of the ink from the supply tank (17) via at least one flow channel (20) in the print head (7) to the return tank (22) and the return tank (22) is linked with the intermediate tank (12) via a return line (24), where applicable also with interconnected conveyance means (25), whereby a closed ink circuit (for standard printing ...

INK RADIATION RECORDING DEVICE AND PROCEDURE FOR CLEANING THE RECORDING HEAD

CONTROL SYSTEM FOR THE INK DROP SPEED.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FOR THE REDUCTION OF THE FOG OF AN INK JET PRINTER.

INK SPRAYING PRINTER.

TANK FOR RECORDING DEVICE

RADIATION PRINTING DEVICE AND PROCEDURE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARDS

DEVICE FOR MAINTENANCE OF A PRINTER

INK RADIATION PRINT HEAD, INK RADIATION PRINTING DEVICE AND PERTINENT PROCEDURE

INK RADIATION PRINTING SYSTEM

INK JET PRINTER

FLUID JET DEVICE, PROCEDURE FOR THEIR CONTROL AND THE PROCEDURE STORAGE COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM

COLOR RADIATION RECORDING DEVICE WITH FILE RECUPERATION DEVICE

INK SUPPLY UNIT

FLUID DELIVERY SYSTEM

A fluid delivery system is revealed. A double diaphragm pump provided with two inlets and two outlets is mounted in the fluid delivery 5 system. An introducing pipeline is connected to one set of inlet and outlet while a return pipeline is connected to the other set of inlet and outlet. Thereby a pneumatic mechanism in the double diaphragm pump drives two diaphragms therein to draw in and expel fluid in the system so that the fluid flows in and out through the two sets of inlets and outlets. 10 Thus the pressure remains constant and the volume flow rate is uniform during delivery and returning of the fluid. A drain-back tube provided with a control valve is arranged between the introducing pipeline and the return pipeline. The fluid is returned and delivered under control of the control valve while changing fluids or cleaning pipelines of the system.

Media cartridge and image recording apparatus with detachably mountable media cartridge

INKJET PRINTER HAVING DUAL VALVE ARRANGEMENT

A method of de-priming an inkjet printhead having a first port and a second port, 20 the inkjet printhead being contained in an inkjet printer comprising: an ink container having an outlet port and a return port; a first ink line interconnecting the first port with the outlet port; a second ink line interconnecting the second port with the return port; an air line connected to the first ink line, the air line having an inlet open to 25 atmosphere; a reversible pump positioned between the second port and the return port for pumping ink in the second ink line; and a dual valve arrangement comprising: a first valve for selectively controlling ink flow through the first ink line, the 30 first valve being positioned in the first ink line between the ink container and the air line; and a second valve for selectively controlling air flow through the air line, the method comprising the steps of: (i) closing the first valve and opening the second valve; and (ii) pumping ink in the second ink line ...

System and method for maintaining the front of a fluid jet device in a relatively clean condition

Ink-jet printer with switch valve between caps for printheads and pump

ANTI-DISPERSION ACCUMULATOR FOR INK JET PRINTING SYSTEM

Diaphragm pump

ANTI-DISPERSION ACCUMULATOR FOR INK JET PRINTING SYSTEM

INK CATCHER AND DROP CHARGE SENSING DEVICE

ANTI-DISPERSION ACCUMULATOR FOR INK JET PRINTING SYSTEM

An ink jet printing system includes an ink ejection head for providing ink drops which are selectively charged and deflected in accordance with their charge as they traverse a path toward a recording medium. An accumulator or "dump" is positioned, in the operating mode of the system, adjacent to the recording medium to catch ink drops directed away from the medium. Before the printing is started, the charging and deflecting units are displaced from the ink path, and the accumulator is abutting the ejection head, effectively capturing any ink emanating from the head. When the system has been pressurized and is in all respects ready for operation, the accumulator is displaced away from the ejection head and along the normal path of the ink drops, thus "catching" all the drops until it reaches its normal operating position adjacent the medium. The charging and deflecting units are then moved into their normal operating positions. In the process of shut-down, the deflection and charging means ...

VACUUM RETURN SYSTEM FOR INK JET PRINTING APPARATUS

A vacuum return ink system for an ink jet printing apparatus includes an ink/air separator comprising a housing having a chamber formed therein. A first inlet port of relatively large diameter connect the chamber via a short tube of similar diameter to the ink catcher of the printing apparatus used for accumulating unused ink. A second port of relatively large diameter is provided to connect the chamber via a tube of a similar diameter to a vacuum source. A third port of relatively small diameter is provided to connect the chamber via a tube of similar diameter to an evacuated ink return tank. A tubular section defining the third port is inserted into the housing with the end thereof extending to the floor of the chamber. Ink and air are drawn from the catcher into the chamber via the first port at a high rate of flow, thereby minimizing a buildup of ink at the catcher mouth. The ink having a higher inertial mass than the air is carried by gravity to the chamber floor where it is drawn ...

LIQUID ABSORBING ASSEMBLY

MAINTENANCE MODULE FOR FLUID JET DEVICE

A maintenance module for a fluid jet device includes a first plate and a second plate affixed to the first plate. The first and second plates each define a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The first plate has a plurality of orifices formed therein extending parallel to the longitudinal axis inwardly of longitudinal edges. The first plate includes a vacuum opening formed therein at about a transverse edge of the first plate. The vacuum opening is formed perpendicular to a plane defined by the longitudinal and transverse axes. The second plate has an elongated channel extending over the first plate orifices so that the orifices are exposed through the channel. The channel is defined by opposing longitudinal edges extending parallel to the longitudinal axis. The channel has tapered edges at about an end thereof that converge to an arcuate funneling region. The second plate overlies the first plate such that the funneling region extends along an ...

CIRCULATION APPARATUS FOR A LIQUID MIXTURE OF SUBSTANCES IN A CONTAINER

The invention relates to an apparatus for circulating a liquid mixture of substances, for example a solution, emulsion or suspension, between a container and a pressure-sensitive component which is supplied from the container, for example for circulating an ink between an ink storage container and a print head of a printing system, comprising a pump, which allows the liquid mixture of substances to circulate in the container through an external conduit circuit, a Venturi tube, the main conduit of which is connected into the external conduit circuit, and also a conduit which connects the output connection of the pressure-sensitive component to the suction connection of the Venturi tube.

INK DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR A PRINTING MODULE AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING INK

An ink delivery system for at least one printing module comprising a closed-loop ink recirculation circuit and a vacuum discharge circuit, which is configured to produce a vacuum condition in the at least one printing module. A method for delivering ink to the at least one printing module is also disclosed.

A PRINTING AND DISPLAY DEVICE

A printing and display device comprising: a flat panel display for displaying images from a computer; and a printer, the printer including a printhead for printing onto the paper.

INKJET PRINTING DEVICE

Drop-on-demand inkjet printing device (10) comprising a through-flow print head (20) having nozzles (22) and a fluid circulation system comprising a main reservoir (30), a supply buffer tank (38), a return manifold (64), wherein the main reservoir (30) is connected to the supply buffer tank (38) wherein the supply buffer tank (38) is in fluid communication with the nozzles (22) print head (20) the nozzles (22) being in fluid communication with the return manifold (38) wherein the return manifold (64) is connected to the main reservoir (30) and both are arranged in height with respect to the nozzles (22), wherein the supply buffer tank (38) is provided with a lockable conduit (56) connecting the supply buffer tank (38) to the main reservoir (30).

INK SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR INK JET PRINTING APPARATUS

SUCTION APPARATUS FOR INKJET PRINTING DEVICE

A suction apparatus includes a volume-variable chamber having an inlet and an outlet which is formed by a plurality of enclosing parts including an elastic part. A slider applies a force to the volume-variable chamber to decrease the volume thereof and a valve applies a force to increase the volume thereof. When the slider decreases the volume, the valve opens the outlet to drain ink and air from the volume-variable chamber. When the valve increases the volume, the valve closes the outlet to produce a suction force.

MEDIA CARTRIDGE AND IMAGE RECORDING APPARATUS WITH DETACHABLY MOUNTABLE MEDIA CARTRIDGE

The object of the invention is to provide an ink jet image recording apparatus adapted for use in the mobile printing, and a media cartridge for containing a sheet to be recorded by such apparatus, and the invention is featured by a media cartridge detachably mountable on an image recording apparatus for forming an image on a sheet and including a frame body which includes sheets for recording an image by the image recording apparatus, an ink containing member for containing ink to be supplied to image recording means of the image recording apparatus and to be discharged on the sheet and to be discharged on the sheet, pick-up means for feeding the sheets one by one from the frame body, and an ink absorbent member for absorbing the ink not used for recording in the image recording apparatus in a state that the frame body is mounted thereon.

LIQUID EJECTION HEAD, APPARATUS AND RECOVERY METHOD FOR THEM

A liquid ejection head includes an ejection outlet for ejecting liquid; a bubble generating region for generating a bubble; a movable member disposed faced to the bubble generating region and movable between a first position and a second position which is farther form the bubble generating region than the first position; a liquid supply passage for supplying the liquid to the bubble generating region from upstream of the bubble generating region; an opening, in fluid communication with the supply passage, for discharging the liquid.

ELECTRODE FOR PRINTER

An ejection apparatus for ejecting material from a liquid has an ejection cell (2) for containing the liquid in use. The cell (2) has a protrusion (3) disposed so as to be contacted by liquid in the cell on more than one side and defining a predetermined location for a meniscus of the liquid at an opening in the cell. An ejection electrode (6) is disposed in the cell at a position inwardly of the cell with respect to the predetermined location of the meniscus.

LIQUID STORING CONTAINER FOR RECORDING APPARATUS

A liquid storing container employable for an ink jet recording apparatus includes a housing, a porous ink absorbing member received in the housing, and a first filter coming in contact with the ink absorbing member. The liquid storing container is detachably connected to an ink jet recording head having a second filter disposed in a liquid flow path thereof. The liquid storing container is constructed such that the volume between the first filter and the second filter, a size of each filter, a condition for compressively receiving the ink absorbing member in the housing, and an inner structure of the liquid storing container satisfactorily coincide with predetermined conditions.

INK CARTRIDGE WITH WASTE INK ABSORBING FUNCTION

An ink cartridge (2) having a waste ink absorbing function, comprising a compartment (70) formed in a cartridge case (30) so as to hold a waste ink absorbing member (20) therein and a plastic film (60) forming at least a part of the compartment (70), wherein the waste ink absorbing member (20) in the compartment (70) can be replaced readily after the plastic film (60) has been cut or stripped off. A new plastic film (60) needs only to be fixed to the inside of the cartridge case (30) after the replacement of the waste ink absorbing member (20) has been completed, whereby the ink cartridge (2) can be provided more economically than when a plastic plate is fixed to a cartridge case, and can be reduced in the dimensions and weight thereof.

FLUID SYSTEM FOR SUPPORTING MULTIPLE PRINT HEADS

A single fluid system simultaneously and independently controls multiple print heads of a continuous ink jet printer. An ink reservoir supplies ink to the multiple print heads and a common vacuum system withdraws ink from the multiple print heads back to the ink reservoir. The system controls the concentration of ink to the multiple print heads and separately supplies ink to the multiple print heads. Multiple print heads are supported independently by this single fluid controller, allowing each print head to operate independently, as if it were controlled by its own fluid system. Hence, each one of the multiple print heads has the capability of cleaning, shutting down, and printing without any interference from the other, while sharing similar components.

REPLACEABLE INK SUPPLY MECHANISM FOR INK WRITE MECHANISMS.

INK RADIATION PRINTING DEVICE.

Circulation ink supply system

Pipe pump and ink jet recorder using same

Ink-jet printing apparatus and method for drawing

Inkjet printing apparatus

Ink circulation device having degassing function

System for distributing fluid and gas within printer

Ink-jet coating apparatus and cleaning method of ink-jet head

Circulating fluid for fluid droplet ejecting

A fluid droplet ejection apparatus includes a printhead having a fluid supply room and a fluid return room. A substrate is attached to the printhead, and the substrate includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet on a surface of the substrate proximate to the fluid supply room and fluid return room. Nozzles are in fluid communication with the fluid inlet. The fluid inlet of the substrate is in fluid communication with the fluid supply room, and the fluid outlet is in fluid communication with the fluid return room. A first circulation path through the substrate is between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The fluid supply is in fluid communication with the fluid return room through a second circulation path that is through the printhead and not through the substrate.

ACCUMULATOR ANTI-DISPERSION FOR DEVICE Of IMPRESSION HAS JET Of INK

DEVICE FOR PREVENTION OF INK JET NOZZLE CLOGGING AND INK SPRAYING

RESERVOIR D'ENCRE POUR DISPOSITIFS D'ECRITURE A ENCRE

... a. Réservoir d'encre pour dispositifs d'écriture à encre. b. Réservoir caractérisé en ce qu'il est placé dans le dispositif d'écriture, de façon que le liquide d'écriture contenu dans le réservoir soit en dépression par rapport à la pression ambiante, et en ce qu'il comporte un dispositif permettant d'augmenter la pression pendant un court instant c. L'invention s'applique notamment aux dispositifs d'écriture à encre du type à mosaïque ...

DEVICE Of IMPRESSION HAS PULVERIZATION OR JET Of INK

Device for pressurising an ink jet and printer equipped with it

INK RETURN SYSTEM FOR A MULTIJET INK JET PRINTER

DEVICE INTENDS TO RECEIVE a COMBINATION OF TWO ROOMS HAS VARIABLE VOLUME AND Of a PLURALITY OF VALVES FOR FEEDING CIRCUIT Of a PRINT HEAD JET Of INK HAS

SAFETY DEVICE FOR SYSTEM OF CIRCULATION OF CONDUCTING FLUID AND ITS APPLICATION TO the Ink jet printers Of INK

CAPPING UNIT, CAPPING METHOD AND DROPLET DISCHARGE UNIT

잉크 전달 시스템

... 용융된 잉크를 인쇄 기구에 전달하는 시스템 및 방법이 제공되고, 이는 수용 저장기에 용융된 잉크를 수용하는 것을 포함하고, 대안으로, 용융된 잉크를 인쇄 기구에 배출하는 저장기의 잉크 레벨에 따라서, 다수의 저장기는 용융된 잉크를 수용하도록 수용 저장기에 개방되는 반면, 다수의 저장기 중 적어도 다른 하나의 저장기는 인쇄 기구에 용융된 잉크를 배출하도록 개방된다.

MAINTENANCE AND RECOVERY DEVICE OF A LIQUID DISCHARGE APPARATUS AND AN IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A PRINTING AND DISPLAY DEVICE

INK SUPPLY DEVICE OF AN INKJET PRINTER THAT INK IS NOT SETTLED IN THE INSIDE OF AN INK TANK IN SPITE OF USING THE INK OF A PIGMENT FORM

PURPOSE: An ink supply device of an inkjet printer is provided to regularly supply ink to a print head by removing pulsating or pressure changes caused by an ink pump by a damping tank, thereby improving the printing performance of a printer. CONSTITUTION: An ink supply device of an inkjet printer comprises an ink tank(10), an ink pump(30), a damping tank(40), and an air compressor(60). The ink tank stores ink supposed to supply to a printer head(50). The ink pump provides a driving force to circulate the ink of the ink tank. The damping tank temporarily stores the ink from the ink pump, thereby delivering the ink to the printer head and the ink tank. The air compressor provides compressed air to the ink tank. The ink pump presses the ink from the lower part of the ink tank, thereby delivering the ink to the damping tank. The ink from the damping tank is delivered to the ink tank through the top of the ink tank. COPYRIGHT KIPO 2013 ...

INK JET RECORDING DEVICE

PURPOSE: An ink jet recording device is provided to arrange various without making the whole device larger and more complicated. CONSTITUTION: Within a housing(16), an ink supplier(32) supplying ink from a side(26S) of a sub ink tank(26) and a maintenance device(40) doing maintenance movement from a base(28B) of an ink jet recording head(28) are installed in one side of a moving direction of a carriage(22). Furthermore, a main tank(34) and a discharge ink tank(42) are installed in the other side of the moving direction of the carriage. Opening the front panel(44) of a housing(10) makes it possible to exchange the main tank(34) and the discharge ink tank. A box-shaped tray(50) is overlapped downward the housing(16) and each tray is drawn to the same direction as the moving direction of the carriage. © KIPO 2003 ...

PRINTER FOR OPTIMALLY CLEANING ACCORDING TO STATE, A CLEANING METHOD OF A RECORDING HEAD AND A RECORDING MEDIUM WITH RECORDING HEAD CLEANING PROGRAM

PURPOSE: A printer, a cleaning method of a recording head and a recording medium with recording head cleaning program are provided to prevent a nozzle from being clogged without unnecessary consumption of ink by optimally cleaning based on cleaning command frequency and the scan number of the recording head. CONSTITUTION: A CPU(Central Processing Unit,12) of a printer has a cleaning switch detection unit(1201), a print pass number count unit(1202), a cleaning kind selection unit(1203) and a cleaning process unit(1204). The cleaning switch detection unit detects operation of a cleaning switch(7). A recording head is cleaned by sucking ink from the recording head for discharging ink. Optimal ink consumption is selected according to the number of cleaning command and the scanning number of the recording head in issuing an order for starting cleaning, and the recording head is cleaned according to the selected cleaning process. © KIPO 2006 ...

INK SUPPLY DEVICE FOR PREVENTING THE PRECIPITATION OF INK

PURPOSE: An ink supply device is provided to circulate ink even if the ink is not sprayed through a printer head. CONSTITUTION: An ink supply device comprises an ink storage tank(10), a supply pipe(20), an opening/closing unit and a bypass pipe(30). The supply pipe supplies ink from the ink storage tank to a printer head. The opening/closing unit opens and closes the supply pipe. The bypass pipe circulates ink supplied to the supply pipe to the ink storage tank if the opening/closing unit is closed. The ink storage tank comprises a stirrer. The ink has a background color. The background color comprises at least one of white, gold and silver. COPYRIGHT KIPO 2011 ...

LIQUID JETTING HEAD, LIQUID JETTING RECORDING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REFILLING LIQUID JETTING HEAD WITH LIQUID

Printing process

An ink-jet printing process where the ink is printed onto a substrate using an ink-jet printer with an ink re-circulating print-head and where the ink comprises: (a) 0.1 to 10 parts of a self-dispersible pigment; (b) 1 to 20 parts of a latex binder; (c) 5 to 15 parts of one or more polar organic solvent(s) with a solubility parameter at 25 DEG C greater than 27.5; (d) 0.1 to 3 parts of a surfactant; (e) 0.001 to 5 parts of biocide; (f) 0 to 10 parts of a viscosity modifier; (g) 0 to 5 parts of one or more organic solvents with a solubility parameter at 25 DEG C less than 27.5; (h) 0 to 5 parts of a cross linking agent; (i) the balance to 100 parts water: and where the face plate of the ink re-circulating print-head shows a contact angle with water of less than 90 DEG. Also printed substrates, inks, ink-jet ink containers and ink-jet printers.

Solid Ink Stick with Motion Control Inset

A solid ink stick for use in solid ink printers is provided that enables adjacent ink sticks to be separated and retained at a predetermined location in the feed channel.

Replaceable printing component

A replaceable printing component is provided, including a fluid reservoir, an electrical storage device mounted on the fluid reservoir, and an identifier stored on the information storage device, wherein the identifier is fixed based on an initial volume of fluid stored in the fluid reservoir.

Liquid ejection apparatus

A liquid ejection apparatus including: a liquid ejection head including: an inside channel; and ejection openings; a supply channel; a return channel; a supply device; an adjusting device; and a controller, wherein the controller performs a liquid circulation control for circulating liquid through the supply channel, the inside channel, and the return channel in order by controlling (i) the adjusting device such that a channel resistance value of the return channel is less than a predetermined maximum value and (ii) the supply device to supply the liquid into the inside channel, wherein, when the liquid is circulated by the liquid circulation control, the controller starts a liquid discharge control for discharging the liquid by making the channel resistance value larger than that in the liquid circulation control, and wherein the controller controls the supply device such that an amount of the liquid supplied to the inside channel per unit time in the liquid discharge control is larger than that in the liquid circulation control.

Method and system for delivering solid-ink pellets

The present disclosure provides systems and methods for supplying solid-ink pellets from a container to an image-forming device. The system includes a delivery tube within the container, with one or more openings to receive solid-ink pellets from the container. An agitating structure coupled to the delivery tube disturbs the solid ink pellets. The movement of the delivery tube moves the agitating structure, resulting in disturbing the solid-ink pellets and maintaining flowability of the pellets to the image-forming device.

Liquid droplet discharge device

The liquid droplet discharge device according to this invention has a storage portion which stores liquid, a first supply pipe which is connected to the storage portion and to which the liquid is supplied from the storage portion, a container which is connected to the first supply pipe and to which the liquid is supplied from the first supply pipe, a head which discharges the liquid supplied from the container, and a stirring member which stirs the liquid in the container, in which the capacity of the container is equal to or larger than the capacity of the first supply pipe.

Inkjet recording apparatus and inkjet recording method

According to embodiments, an inkjet recording apparatus includes an ink tank which contains ink, a printing head which is connected to the ink tank through an ink channel and ejects the ink from a nozzle surface, and a channel member which is provided in the ink channel and has a clearance gap that connects the ink channel to the outside. The channel member is provided in a part of the ink channel, which has a positive pressure with respect to the atmospheric pressure at least during a period in which the printing head is capable of printing.

Drop Mass Calibration Method Based on Drop Positional Feedback

A method compensates for changes in drop mass of drops ejected by ink jets in a printhead of an ink jet imaging device. The method comprises identifying an average drop placement position for a printhead with reference to ink drop positions on an image receiving member and adjusting a parameter of one or more ink jet driving signals in response to the average drop placement position being greater than a predetermined threshold.

Storage device, circuit board, liquid reservoir and system

A storage device according to some aspects of the invention includes a communication unit configured to perform processing for communication with a host apparatus; a storage unit configured to have a first memory area and a second memory area that store therein received data from the host apparatus, and memory area selection information; a memory control unit configured to select one of the first memory area and the second memory area as a memory area for reading, select the other one thereof as a memory area for writing, and perform control of reading and writing; and an increment determination unit configured to compare a value of data having been read out from the memory area for reading by the memory control unit and a value of the received data to determine a magnitude relation therebetween.

Check valve

A check valve including a cylindrical valve well defining a chamber, a valve disk, a pin centrally connecting the valve well to the valve disk; the valve disk being axially symmetrically positioned with respect to the valve well. The valve disk forms a fluid seal with an annular rim of the valve well when a first pressure acting on the valve disk is greater that a opposing second pressure within the chamber. The check valve further includes a plurality of vanes disposed within the chamber, where the vanes prevent the valve disk from collapsing into the chamber due to an excessive first pressure on the valve disk.

Liquid collection device and liquid ejecting apparatus

A liquid collection device includes a liquid ejecting head that ejects liquid, a suction-delivery unit that sucks the liquid from the liquid ejecting head and delivers the sucked liquid, a liquid collection unit that collects the liquid delivered from the suction-delivery unit, and a gas delivery unit that delivers gas to the liquid collection unit.

Inkjet printer

There are provided opening and closing means for opening and closing an ink flow passage and a filter chamber in which a filter is arranged horizontally. The opening and closing means is disposed upstream of the filter chamber, a first room is disposed downstream of the filter and a second room is upstream of the filter in the filter chamber. An ink discharge opening is disposed in the first room, and an ink supply opening and an air bubble storage unit for storing the air bubble flowing in with the ink are disposed in the second room. The ink supply opening and the ink discharge opening are displaced with each other in a horizontal direction for arrangement. The air bubble storage unit is arranged upward of the ink supply opening in a perpendicular direction. A suction means expands the air bubble stored in the air bubble storage unit.

Liquid discharge head unit and image forming apparatus

A liquid discharge head unit includes a liquid container tank storing a liquid and a head discharging liquid droplets from its nozzles. The head includes a common channel supplying the liquid to liquid-chambers communicating with the nozzles, and the common channel includes a supply port introducing the liquid and a discharge port discharging the liquid. The liquid container tank includes a container including upstream and downstream chambers separated via a filtering member, a supply path supplying the liquid from the downstream chamber to the supply port of the head, a discharge path discharging the liquid obtained from the discharge port of the head, a communication path via which the downstream chamber communicates with the discharge path, and a communication path via which the upstream chamber communicates with the discharge path, where a fluid resistance of the second communication path is higher than that of the first communication path.

Replaceable printing component

A replaceable printing component includes a housing, and an array of pockets separated by ribs and each having a first geometrical shape formed in a side of the housing, wherein at least one of the ribs between adjacent ones of the pockets is removed to form a combined pocket having a second geometrical shape.

Ink tank for inkjet printer

The present invention relates to an ink tank for an ink jet printer. The invention further relates to a method of manufacturing the ink tank, as well as well as a method of refilling the ink tank. The ink tank includes an ink tank body and an ink tank lid bonded to the ink tank body at a bond joint. The ink tank lid comprises an opening that leads to a holding area that is adapted to contain a capillary media therein. The holding area comprises a wall that forms a boundary between the capillary media and an enclosure defined by the ink tank body and the ink tank lid. The opening is sized to permit an insertion and removal of the capillary media to and from the holding area when the ink tank lid is bonded to the ink tank body at the bond joint.

Storage device, host device, circuit board, liquid receptacle, and system

A storage device includes a control unit that carries out a communication process with a host device that is connected via a bus; a storage unit into which data from the host device is written; and a storage control unit that controls access to the storage unit. The control unit returns an acknowledgment to the host device in the case where the control unit has received acknowledgment return request information broadcasted from the host device to a plurality of storage devices connected to the bus after the end of a period in which data is written into the plurality of storage devices by the host device, and the data has been successfully written into the storage unit of the storage device to which the control unit belongs.

Stream printing method

A printing method includes providing a print head. The print head includes a valve and at least one orifice. Fluid is ejected from the orifice in a generally continuous stream. The fluid includes a conductive material. The fluid is deposited in a pattern on a substrate to form an electrically conductive deposit. At least a portion of the pattern includes a generally straight line.

Recording apparatus capable of detecting residual amount of ink in ink cartridge

A recording apparatus includes a controller and a cartridge accommodating section in which an ink cartridge of a predetermined type is mountable. The ink cartridge includes: an ink chamber; a first heat conductor that conducts heat to the ink; a pyroelectric portion that outputs an electrical signal; and a first electrical interface that connects to the pyroelectric portion. The cartridge accommodating section includes: a second electrical interface that connects to the first electrical interface when the ink cartridge is mounted in the cartridge accommodating section; a heater that applies heat; and a second heat conductor that conducts heat to the first heat conductor. The controller determines at least one of the type of the mounted ink cartridge and whether an amount of ink in the ink chamber is less than a predetermined amount based on the electrical signal inputted from the pyroelectric portion via the second electrical interface.

Method of thermal degassing in an inkjet printer

A method of reducing air in an ink passageway in an inkjet printer by pressurizing a thermally actuated degassing unit that includes an air chamber, venting air through a check valve configured to allow air to vent from the air chamber to ambient when the pressure in the air chamber exceeds ambient air pressure by a predetermined amount The pressurizing is performed by heating an element inside the air chamber. A power supply is connected to the heating element, and power is applied to the heating element during a first time interval to increase the pressure in the air chamber above ambient pressure. Gas is vented from the check valve which allows the heating element to cool during a second time interval to reduce the pressure in the air chamber below ambient pressure. Gas is then drawn from the ink passageway through the membrane into the air chamber.

Dispensing liquid using dispenser with return filter

A liquid dispenser is provided that includes a liquid supply channel, a liquid dispensing channel, and a liquid return channel. The liquid dispensing channel includes a first wall. A portion of the first wall defines an outlet opening. The liquid dispensing channel includes a second wall that is positioned opposite the first wall. The second wall of the liquid dispensing channel extends along a portion of the liquid supply channel and along a portion of the liquid return channel. A liquid supply passage is provided that extends through the second wall and is in fluid communication with the liquid supply channel. The liquid supply passage includes a porous member. A liquid return passage is provided that extends through the second wall and is in fluid communication with the liquid return channel. The liquid return passage includes a porous member. A liquid is provided that flows from the liquid supply passage through the liquid supply channel through the liquid dispensing channel through the liquid return channel to the liquid return passage. A liquid drop is caused to be ejected from the outlet opening of the liquid dispensing channel by selectively actuating a diverter member to divert a portion of the flowing liquid through the outlet opening of the liquid dispensing channel.

Check Valve Unit For Solid Ink Reservoir System

A check valve unit is provided for a high-speed phase change ink image producing machine between a reservoir for receiving and holding a volume of melted ink from a source and a receiving unit, which may be a printhead system. The check valve unit includes a plurality of ball elements trapped between upper and lower housings defining a like plurality of inlet and discharge passageways. The passageways are configured to optimize flow of melted ink through the unit during charging of the secondary reservoir. The check valve unit is scalable as to size and number of reservoirs for a particular application. The unit further incorporates features that simplify the manufacturing and assembly process while maintaining optimal performance.

Damping device, liquid supplying apparatus, and droplet discharging apparatus

A damping device includes an elastic membrane that serves as a wall of a part of a supply channel between a reservoir unit that contains liquid and a droplet discharging unit that discharges the liquid in the form of a droplet; a wall portion provided outside of the supply channel such that a gas chamber is provided between the wall portion and the elastic membrane; and a resistance unit provided on the wall portion, the resistance unit providing ventilation and generating a resistance force against a movement of the elastic membrane.

Inkjet device and sealing method for the inkjet device

According to one embodiment, an inkjet device includes: an inkjet head; an armor section configured to surround the periphery of the inkjet head; a first gap formed over the entire periphery in the peripheral direction in a plurality of the armor sections; and a seal body for forming a surface tension seal by fluid in a second gap arranged in the first gap to form a gap narrower than the first gap.

Ink filling device for office machine

An ink filling device for supplying an ink to an ink container of an office machine includes an ink reservoir having an inlet port and one or more outlet openings, an ink casing having a filling member for engaging with the inlet port and for supplying the ink into the ink reservoir, and a connecting device includes a coupling pipe having one end for coupling to the outlet opening of the ink reservoir, and having the other end for coupling to the ink container of the office machine and for automatically filling the ink container of the office machine and for maintaining the ink container in the full or filled level without being filled or operated by the users themselves.

Consumable supply item, fluid reservoir and recirculation system for micro-fluid applications

A consumable supply item for an imaging device holds an initial or refillable volume of ink. An interior retains the ink while exit and return ports define openings through a housing to fluidly communicate the interior to the imaging device. The opening of the return port is larger than the opening of the exit port. The design slows the return of fluid to the housing which minimizes air bubbles or frothiness in the fluid. During use, ink depletes toward a bottom surface of the interior beneath which the ink is prevented from occupying. A housing section below the interior retains a portion of the exit port so that a bottom of the opening of the exit port is substantially horizontally aligned with the bottom surface. It prevents stranding ink beneath the exit port. Further embodiments include port configuration, construction, and modular components, to name a few.

Direct acting vacuum control ink system

A piezoelectric DOD printing system including a piezoelectric-based print engine, a micro pump, an ink line, a vacuum sensor, and control circuitry. The micro pump delivers ink from a cartridge reservoir to the print engine. The ink line fluidly connects an outlet of the micro pump with an inlet of the print engine. The vacuum sensor is fluidly connected to the ink line. The control circuitry is electrically coupled to the vacuum sensor and programmed to control operation of the print engine and the micro pump. The control circuitry activates and deactivates the micro pump based upon information from the vacuum sensor.

Liquid jet head, liquid jet apparatus, and method of manufacturing the liquid jet head

To prevent ejection failure which occurs because openings of nozzles are clogged with fine burrs generated at a parting line (P) of a flow path member ( 2 ) formed by molding, provided is a liquid jet head ( 1 ) including the flow path member ( 2 ) and an actuator portion ( 3 ). The flow path member ( 2 ) includes a first member ( 4 ) and a second member ( 5 ) bonded thereto. A flow path ( 8 ) and a discharge port ( 12 ) communicated to the flow path ( 8 ) are formed between the first member ( 4 ) and the second member ( 5 ). The first and second members ( 4, 5 ) each include a parting line formed by molding on a surface thereof. The parting line is not positioned on an inner surface forming the flow path ( 8 ), and is positioned on the surface of the first member ( 4 ) or the second member ( 5 ) other than the inner surface.

Inkjet printing apparatus

An inkjet printing apparatus includes: an inkjet head configured to discharge ink; a first tank configured to store ink to be supplied to the inkjet head; a second tank configured to store ink not consumed by the inkjet head; an ink circulation path for circulation of ink among the first tank, the inkjet head, and the second tank; a pressurizer configured to provide the first and second tanks with a pressure for the circulation of ink through the ink circulation path; a first pressure adjuster configured to adjust a pressure inside the first tank during the circulation of ink; and a second pressure adjuster configured to adjust a pressure inside the second tank during the circulation of ink.

Liquid cartridge and method of producing liquid cartridge

A method of producing a liquid cartridge having an identification part corresponding to a type of liquid held inside the liquid cartridge, the method includes preparing the liquid cartridge having a plurality of protrusions protruding from an external wall; and forming the identification part corresponding to the type of liquid by melting at least one of the protrusions. In this way, a strong mis-loading prevention part that prevents mis-loading of the liquid cartridge into a liquid consuming apparatus can be constituted without generating waste.

Apparatus, method, and system for conducting single-pass filtration of ink waste

An apparatus for conducting single-pass filtration of ink waste is disclosed. The apparatus includes: a filter connected to a housing unit and a plurality of absorbent layers within the housing unit, wherein the plurality of absorbent layers are in any order and include: a layer for removing metal and polar compounds, a layer for removing non-polar color impurities, a layer for removing acid functional components, a layer for removing additives with polar or protic functional groups, and a layer for removing residual water. A process and a system that include or utilize the apparatus are also disclosed.

Pressure pulses to reduce bubbles and voids in phase change ink

A phase change ink printer may be operated so that multiple pressure pulses are applied to the ink in an ink flow path of the printer during a time that the ink is changing phase. During the phase change, a portion of the ink in the ink flow path is in liquid phase and another portion of the ink is in solid phase. The pressure pulses are applied at least to the liquid phase ink in the ink flow path. The phase change may involve a transition from solid to liquid phase, such as during a start-up operation, or may involve a transition from a liquid phase to a solid phase, such as during a power down operation. Application of pressure during either of these operations serves to reduce bubbles and voids in the phase change ink.

Ink tank and production process of ink tank

An ink tank for being installed in an ink jet recording apparatus to supply ink thereto, including an ink storage portion, one side surface of a casing of the ink tank in which side surface an opening for supplying ink to the apparatus is formed, and a joint member for joining the one side surface to the apparatus by engaging with a connection member of the apparatus. The joint member has a welding portion for being welded to the one side surface along a peripheral portion of the opening, the welding portion corresponding to the peripheral portion; and a hollow portion forming a positioning hole for inserting therein and engaging therewith the connection member for determining a relative position of the apparatus and the one side surface. The hollow portion is provided on the outside of the welding portion and abuts to the one side surface without being welded.

Method And Apparatus For Melt Cessation To Limit Ink Flow And Ink Stick Deformation

A system controls application of heat with a melt plate to an ink stick in a solid ink imaging device. The system includes a melt plate, a heater configured to heat the melt plate to a temperature sufficient to melt solid ink, a feed channel configured to direct solid ink sticks towards the melt plate to enable a leading edge of a solid ink stick to be melted by the heated melt plate, and a controller configured to separate the heater and the leading edge of the ink stick by a distance that arrest melting of the ink stick.

Image forming apparatus

An image forming apparatus including a recording head having an array of nozzles disposed on a nozzle face of the recording head, a suction cap to cover the nozzle face of the recording head, a cap holder movable relative to the recording head to movably hold the suction cap, an induction member provided between the cap holder and the suction cap to receive liquid dropping from the suction cap, and a discharge channel connected to the induction member through which the liquid retained by the induction member is discharged externally. The suction cap is first removed from the nozzle face of the recording head while the induction member still remains in contact with the nozzle face of the recording head so that the induction member receives liquid dropping from the suction cap upon retraction of the cap holder from the recording head.

Solid ink melter assembly

A solid phase change ink melter assembly in a phase change ink image producing machine comprises an array of a plurality of spaced apart fins, the array defining a top face for receiving the solid pieces of phase change ink, a bottom face for discharging melted ink, and opposite melter surfaces for melting the solid pieces in contact therewith. The assembly further comprises a number of heat transfer devices extending through and in heat transfer contact with the plurality of fins, the heat transfer devices including a heating element for heating the device. The bottom edge of the fins defines a plurality of apexes which serve as drip points for molten phase change ink.

Ink cartridge

An ink cartridge includes an ink bag, a plastic case, and an internal component other than the spout, the case housing the ink bag and including a first case and second case, the first case including at least a first wall portion and a side wall portion including a first side wall portion and a second side wall portion, the second case including at least a second wall portion, the first side wall portion including an exposure opening that is an opening that exposes at least a part of the internal component and that extends toward the first wall portion from an end portion on a side that contacts with the second wall portion when the first case and the second case are joined together.

Gel maintenance cycle for a release agent application system

An inkjet printer includes a controller configured to operate the printer in a gel maintenance cycle to clean residual ink and other material from an image receiving member in the printer to maintain image quality in the printer. The controller operates the image receiving member and a drum maintenance unit in the printer to flood the image receiving member with release agent that is removed from the member by wipers in the drum maintenance unit. The removed release agent is removed from a sump, filtered, and returned to an applicator for use in printing operations.

Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus

A liquid ejecting head includes: a main head unit that ejects ink; a first flow channel member and a second flow channel member that include first and second flow channels, respectively, through which ink to be supplied to the main head unit flows; and a ring-shaped sealing member pinched by the first flow channel member and the second flow channel member. The first flow channel and the second flow channel communicate with the interior of a space area defined by the first flow channel member, the second flow channel member, and the sealing member, and an atmosphere exposure channel that connects the space area with the exterior is formed in a joining surface between the sealing member and the first flow channel member.

Image forming apparatus and method of discharging recording liquid

An image forming apparatus includes a recording head oriented upward so as to eject a recording liquid upward. The recording head includes an ejection face, an ejection port, and a waste-liquid port. The ejection port is disposed at the ejection face to eject the recording liquid. The waste-liquid port is disposed separately from the ejection port at the ejection face. The waste-liquid passage is connected to the waste-liquid port and has an opening connected to an outside of the recording head. A residual of the recording liquid on the ejection face is discharged to the outside of the recording head via the waste-liquid port and the waste-liquid passage.

Consumable supply item with fluid sensing for micro-fluid applications

A consumable supply item for an imaging device holds an initial or refillable volume of ink. A housing defines an interior having a pair of opposed electrodes. The electrodes have a capacitance that varies in response to an amount of liquid between them. A controller energizes one electrode and receives an output reading from the other. The controller processes the reading on board the housing and supplies it as a digital data stream to the imaging device during use. A memory stores calibration values for an empty and full housing. The controller writes back to the memory present fluid levels obtained from the output reading of the electrode. An enable output allows operation or not of a fluid pump in the imaging device. Materials, construction, modularity, and fluid communication ports are further embodiments, to name a few.

System for determining the autonomy in consumable fluids of a continuous ink jet printer

The invention concerns a new system for determining the autonomy in consumable fluids (ink and solvent) of a continuous inkjet printer. The system comprises: a system for measuring the total volume of available ink, a system for determining the average ink consumption, calculating means for determining the ink autonomy (AE) by division of the volume of ink with the average ink consumption.

Ink remaining amount detecting device, method for detecting ink remaining amount, and ink jet printing apparatus

According to the present invention, in the case where the amount of ink remaining in an ink tank is detected using light from a light emitting unit, whether or not the amount of remaining ink is smaller than a predetermined value can be accurately determined with a decrease in the life of the light emitting unit suppressed. Thus, the present invention determines a difference between output signals each output by the light receiving unit according to a corresponding one of at least two of a plurality of levels of light emissions from the light emitting unit. Based on the difference, whether or not the amount of remaining ink is smaller than the predetermined value is determined.

Ink Delivery Agitation System

An ink delivery system is disclosed. The ink delivery system includes one or more subtanks to store ink and an agitation system coupled to each of the one or more subtanks to vibrate a subtank to prevent ink particles from settling in the subtank.

Ink pen electrical interface

A printing system comprising an electrical interface for ink pens of an inkjet printer, the electrical interface including a first group of electrical contacts; a second group of electrical contacts, the second group of electrical contacts being arranged in an identical configuration as the first group of electrical contacts; and a number of electrical interconnects, in which each electrical contact from the first and second groups of electrical contacts is connected to one of the electrical interconnects via a conductive trace; in which at least one electrical contact from the first group of electrical contacts is connected to a same electrical interconnect as at least one electrical contact from the second group of electrical contacts.

Image forming apparatus including recording head for ejecting liquid droplets

An image forming apparatus includes recording heads, head holders, a carriage, a guide member, a reference member, and a pressing member. The recording heads have nozzles to eject liquid droplets. The holders hold the recording heads. The carriage is reciprocally movable in a main scanning direction and holding the holders. The guide member is disposed along the main scanning direction to guide the carriage along the main scanning direction. The reference member is disposed parallel to the guide member in the carriage to hold the holders. The pressing member presses at least one of the holders toward at least another of the holders. The holders have reference faces to contact each other in the main scanning direction to determine relative positions of the holders. With the recording heads positioned based on the reference faces of the holders, the recording heads are held by the holders.

INKJET PRINTING APPARATUS

A turning operation of a headset lever is completed, and a printing head can be detached from a carriage part. By the above described turning operation of the head set lever, a supply port insertion and extraction part connected via a link slides, a needle pipe of the supply port insertion and extraction part is brought into a state of being the farthest from the printing head, and a needle insertion and extraction lever is brought into state in which it moves under a case wall. Thereby, an operator cannot turn only the needle insertion and extraction lever when the head set lever is in an opened state. In this manner, when the headset lever is in the opened state, the operation of the needle insertion and extraction lever which is used for connection of the supply port insertion and extraction part to ink supply port is restricted. 12.-. (canceled)3. An ink jet printing apparatus comprising:a printing head configured to discharge ink;a carriage configured to mount the printing head;an ink passage member configured to supply ink to the printing head;a connecting member, mounted on the carriage, configured to be moveable to a connecting position where the ink passage member is connected to the printing head and to a first disconnecting position where the ink passage member is not connected to the printing head;a first operating member configured to move the connecting member to the connecting position and to the first disconnecting position;a second operating member configured to move the connecting member to a first position where the printing head is fixed to the carriage and a second position where the printing head is able to be attached to and detached from the carriage; anda linking member configured to link the second operating member to the connecting member, the linking member moving the connecting member from the first disconnecting position to a second disconnecting position, which is further from the connecting position than from the first disconnecting ...

Liquid Supply Method

A liquid supply method of a liquid ejecting apparatus including a tank having a liquid capacity greater than a storage amount of the liquid which is stored in a liquid storage unit, and a liquid ejection unit that ejects the liquid supplied from the tank side includes the steps of: firstly supplying all the liquid in the liquid storage unit to the tank; agitating the liquid accommodated in the tank; and secondly supplying the liquid in the tank to the liquid ejection unit. 1firstly supplying all the liquid in the liquid storage unit to the tank;agitating the liquid accommodated in the tank; andsecondly supplying the liquid in the tank to the liquid ejection unit.. A liquid supply method of a liquid ejecting apparatus including a tank having a liquid capacity greater than a storage amount of the liquid which is stored in a liquid storage unit, and a liquid ejection unit that ejects the liquid supplied from the tank side, the liquid supply method comprising the steps of: This application is a continuation of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 on, application Ser. No. 12/858,620, filed Aug. 18, 2010, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 on Japanese Patent Application No. 2009-202339, filed Sep. 2, 2009. Each of the above-identified related applications is expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.1. Field of InventionThe present invention relates to a liquid supply method for supplying a liquid, such as ink, from a liquid storage unit for storing the liquid to a liquid ejection unit.2. Description of Related ArtUntil now, an ink jet-type printer (hereinafter referred to as “printer”) disclosed in JP-A-2000-211152 has been proposed as a liquid ejecting apparatus capable of supplying a liquid from a liquid storage unit for storing the liquid to a liquid ejection unit. The printer disclosed in JP-A-2000-211152 includes a recording head serving as a liquid ejecting unit for ejecting ink as the liquid onto a target such as recording paper, and ...

Liquid jetting apparatus

A liquid jetting apparatus includes: a liquid jetting head in which nozzles for jetting the liquid are formed and which has an actuator for jetting the liquid from the nozzles; an interposer substrate which is provided to the liquid jetting head and on which a driver IC is mounted; a control substrate which controls the liquid jetting head; a wire member which connects the interposer substrate and the control substrate; and a flexible circuit board which connects the interposer substrate and the actuator, wherein the interposer substrate has a first connecting portion to which the wire member is to be connected, and a second connecting portion to which the flexible circuit board is to be connected, and the driver IC is arranged nearer to the first connecting portion than the second connecting portion of the interposer substrate.

FLUID EJECTION ASSEMBLY WITH CIRCULATION PUMP

A fluid ejection assembly includes a fluid slot formed in a first substrate and a channel formed in a chamber layer disposed on top of a second substrate. The bottom surface of the second substrate is adhered to the top surface of the first substrate and fluid feed holes are formed between the fluid slot and the channel. A fluid ejection element is at a first end of the channel and a pump element is at a second end of the channel to circulate fluid horizontally through the channel and vertically through the fluid feed holes. 1. A fluid ejection assembly comprising:a fluid slot formed in a first substrate;a channel formed in a chamber layer disposed on top of a second substrate, wherein a bottom surface of the second substrate is adhered to a top surface of the first substrate;fluid feed holes formed between the fluid slot and the channel;a fluid ejection element at a first end of the channel; anda pump element at a second end of the channel to circulate fluid horizontally through the channel and vertically through the fluid feed holes.2. A fluid ejection assembly as in claim 1 , wherein the fluid feed holes comprise:a first fluid feed hole adjacent to the fluid ejection element; anda second fluid feed hole adjacent to the pump element.3. A fluid ejection assembly as in claim 2 , wherein the first fluid feed hole is between the fluid ejection element and the first end of the channel.4. A fluid ejection assembly as in claim 2 , wherein the second fluid feed hole is between the pump element and the second end of the channel.5. A fluid ejection assembly as in claim 1 , wherein the fluid feed holes comprise:first and second fluid feed holes adjacent to and on either side of the fluid ejection element; anda third fluid feed hole adjacent to the pump element.6. A fluid ejection assembly as in claim 1 , wherein the fluid feed holes comprise:first and second fluid feed holes adjacent to and on either side of the pump element; anda third fluid feed hole adjacent to the fluid ...

LIQUID JET HEAD AND LIQUID JET APPARATUS

A head chip () includes an actuator substrate () having channels () for liquid ejection formed therein, and a cover plate () having a liquid supply chamber () for supplying liquid to the channels formed therein, the cover plate being stacked on the actuator substrate. The flow path member () is provided to the cover plate and supplies the liquid to the liquid supply chamber. The flow path member includes an inflow port () through which the liquid flows in, an outflow port () through which the liquid flows out, and a circulation path () along which the liquid is circulated from the inflow port to the outflow port. No filter is interposed in any of a flow path between the inflow port and the channels and a flow path between the outflow port and the channels. 1. A liquid jet head , comprising: an actuator substrate having a channel for liquid ejection formed therein; and', 'a cover plate having a liquid supply chamber for supplying liquid to the channel formed therein, the cover plate being stacked on the actuator substrate; and, 'a head chip comprisinga flow path member, which is provided to the cover plate, for supplying the liquid to the liquid supply chamber, an inflow port through which the liquid flows in;', 'an outflow port through which the liquid flows out; and', 'a circulation path along which the liquid is circulated from the inflow port to the outflow port, and, 'wherein the flow path member compriseswherein no filter is interposed in any of a flow path between the inflow port and the channel and a flow path between the outflow port and the channel.2. A liquid jet head according to claim 1 ,wherein the channel comprises a plurality of channels arrayed on a surface of the actuator substrate on the cover plate side,wherein the liquid supply chamber is communicated to the plurality of channels, and is formed into an elongated shape long in an arraying direction of the plurality of channels, andwherein the circulation path has a sectional area in a direction ...

Ink jet printing apparatus and maintenance method

Even when a pressurizing operation is performed, degradation of the quality of a printing head due to wiping of a nozzle surface is suppressed. In an ink jet printing apparatus including a printing head, an ink tank, a first pump arranged in an ink supplying path for supplying ink from the ink tank to the printing head, a second pump arranged in an ink collecting path for collecting ink from the printing head to the ink tank, a switch valve arranged between the printing head and the second pump, and a cleaning mechanism, by driving the first pump in a state where the switch valve is closed, the ink is discharged from the nozzle row, and after driving of the second pump in a state where the switch valve is opened, the cleaning mechanism is caused to clean the printing head.

Inkjet recording apparatus

An inkjet recording apparatus stabilizes an ink discharge amount of a line head, while suppressing an ink supply amount of a circulation route, thereby performing high quality image recording. The inkjet recording apparatus includes a first flow path configured to supply ink from an ink tank to a first discharge port group, a second flow path configured to supply ink from the ink tank to a second discharge port group, and a control unit configured to control an ink supply amount of at least one of the first flow path and the second flow path according to the passing position of a recording medium with respect to the line head.

System and method for recycling inkjet-printing material

The present invention provides a system and a method for recycling an inkjet-printing material. The recycling method comprises the following steps: utilizing a wiper configured to withdraw the inkjet-printing material dispensed by the nozzles, and collecting the inkjet-printing material by means of a recycling tank; mixing a fresh inkjet-printing material with the inkjet-printing material collected by the recycling tank, so as to form a reuse inkjet-printing material; and providing the reuse inkjet-printing material to the nozzles. The present invention can greatly save the inkjet-printing material.

ELASTIC MEMBER FOR INKJET

An elastic member for inkjet includes a resin composition including at least a (b)-(a)-(b) type isobutylene-based triblock copolymer including an isobutylene-based polymer block (a) and a styrene-based polymer block (b), and a styrene-based polymer. 1. An elastic member for inkjet , comprising:a resin composition comprising a (b)-(a)-(b) type isobutylene-based triblock copolymer including an isobutylene-based polymer block (a) and a styrene-based polymer block (b), and a styrene-based polymer.2. The elastic member for inkjet according to claim 1 , wherein the styrene-based polymer contains at least high impact polystyrene.3. The elastic member for inkjet according to claim 1 , wherein the resin composition has a water vapor permeation rate [JIS Z 0208 (CUP method) claim 1 , a sheet having a thickness of 0.5 mm claim 1 , 40° C9ORH] of 2.0 g/m·24 h or less and an air permeation rate [JIS K 7126 (differential pressure method) claim 1 , a sheet having a thickness of 0.5 mm claim 1 , 23° C.] of 2.5×10cm·cm/cms·cmHg or less.4. The elastic member for inkjet according to claim 3 , wherein the resin composition further comprises a compatibilizing agent of which a blending ratio is 5 percent by weight or more and 20 percent by weight or less.5. The elastic member for inkjet according to claim 4 , wherein the compatibilizing agent is polybutene.6. The elastic member for inkjet according to claim 1 , wherein the resin composition further comprises a styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene triblock copolymer.7. An ink supply tube comprising the resin composition according to claim 1 , wherein the ink supply tube connects an ink tank to a recording head to supply ink retained in the ink tank to the recording head.8. The ink supply tube according to claim 7 , wherein the resin composition has hardness (JIS K 6253 claim 7 , Shore A) of 30 or more and 70 or less.9. A sealing member for inkjet claim 1 , comprising the resin composition according to claim 1 , wherein the sealing member ...

Image forming apparatus including recording head for ejecting liquid droplets

An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus body, a recording head, a sub tank, a carriage, a main tank, a liquid feed device, a displacement member, a first detector, a second detector, a detection retainer, a liquid consumption amount measuring device, and a supply controller. The measuring device measures a consumption amount of liquid in the sub tank when the displacement member displaces from a first position in a direction in which the consumption amount of liquid in the sub tank decreases. When a detection output of the first detector continues to be, for a predetermined time or number of times, in a detection state in which the first detector detects the displacement member and shifts from the detection state to a non detection state in which the first detector does not detect the displacement member, the measuring device starts measuring the consumption amount of liquid in the sub tank.

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

In an image forming apparatus, a first detection part and a second detection part, each for detecting a position of a displacement member that changes its position according to a remaining amount of liquid in a sub-tank, are provided to a carriage carrying the sub-tank and a recording head, and a body of the image forming apparatus, respectively. A first position is a position of the displacement member detected by the first detection part such that the remaining amount of liquid in the sub-tank is smaller than that at a second position detected by the second detection part. The liquid is supplied to the sub-tank of a differential supply amount, corresponding to a displacement amount of the displacement member between a position detected by the first detection part and a position detected by the second detection part, after the first detection part detects the displacement member. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:a recording head configured to discharge liquid droplets;a sub-tank configured to contain liquid to be supplied to the recording head;a carriage configured to carry the recording head and the sub-tank;a main tank configured to contain the liquid to be supplied to the sub-tank; anda liquid feeding part configured to supply the liquid from the main tank to the sub-tank, whereinthe sub-tank has a displacement member that changes its position according to a remaining amount of the liquid in the sub-tank,a first detection part configured to detect that the displacement member is at a predetermined first position is provided to the carriage,a second detection part configured to detect that the displacement member is at a predetermined second position is provided to a body of the image forming apparatus,the remaining amount of the liquid in the sub-tank when the displacement member is at the first position is smaller than the remaining amount of the liquid in the sub-tank when the displacement member is at the second position,a differential supply amount ...

Image forming device

Disclosed is an image forming device including a carriage including recording heads and sub-tanks; a platen having a conveyance surface; flexible tubes for supplying liquids to the sub-tanks, the flexible tubes being extended along a main scanning direction above the platen, wherein extended portions of the flexible tubes are folded at middle portions of extended portions in the main scanning direction; first and second tube guides that support the folded extended portions of the flexible tubes, wherein the flexible tubes are arranged in a height direction, wherein the first tube guide is disposed at a position higher than that of the second tube guide, and wherein the tubes are supported by a thin plate-like sheet member formed of an elastic material.

Printer, system and method for monitoring print quality

A printer, a system and a method for monitoring print quality are provided. In this method, during a printout process of a document, the document is scanned at the same time, and scan information is obtained after the printout process is completed. Original information relating to the document is compared against the scan information to determine whether a data loss occurs. An abnormal print message is displayed to warn the user when there is a data loss or the data loss is occurred; otherwise, a normal print message is displayed.

Liquid ejection head, and recording method and suction method using the liquid ejection head

Provided is a liquid ejection head, including: a substrate; a pressure chamber; a first common liquid chamber; a filter for inhibiting inflow of foreign matter in liquid supplied to the pressure chamber; a second common liquid chamber; a first supply opening and a second supply opening, the first supply opening communicating to the first common liquid chamber, the second supply opening communicating to the second common liquid chamber; and a liquid receiving portion formed in the second surface of the substrate in which the second common liquid chamber, the pressure chamber, and the first common liquid chamber are arranged in this order in a first direction from an end of the substrate to a center of the substrate; and the first common liquid chamber communicates to the pressure chamber via the filter, and the second common liquid chamber communicates to the pressure chamber not via the filter.

PRINTING SYSTEM WITH SELF-PURGE, SEDIMENT PREVENTION AND FUMES REMOVAL ARRANGEMENTS

A printing head assembly with integrated purge mechanism is disclosed. The printing head assembly comprises: (a) a liquid dispensing head comprising one or more dispensing nozzles enclosed in a nozzle plate, driven by at least first and second pressures, and (b) a shielding mask including an opening in front of the one or more nozzles, wherein the opening being configured such that when printing liquid is dispensed from the head driven by the first pressure, the liquid being dispensed in pulses through the opening in the shielding mask, and (ii) when purge printing liquid is dispensed from the head driven by the second pressure the liquid being drawn to a capillary gap formed between the shielding mask and the nozzle plate thereby removing the purge printing liquid from the nearby nozzles. 130-. (canceled)31. A printing head assembly with integrated purge mechanism , comprising:(a) a liquid dispensing head comprising one or more dispensing nozzles enclosed in a nozzle plate, driven by at least first and second pressures; and (i) when printing liquid is dispensed from the head driven by said first pressure, the liquid being dispensed through said opening in said shielding mask; and', '(ii) when printing liquid is dispensed from the head driven by said second pressure, said printing liquid being drawn to a gap formed between said shielding mask and said nozzle plate, thereby removing said printing liquid from nearby said nozzles., '(b) a shielding mask including an opening in front of said one or more nozzles, wherein said opening being configured such that'}32. The printing head assembly of claim 31 , comprising a plurality of printing heads claim 31 , wherein said shielding mask comprising an opening in front of each of the printing heads.33. The printing head assembly of claim 31 , comprising a cooling system configured to cool said shielding mask.34. The printing head assembly of claim 31 , further including a printing liquid storage system and a re-circulation ...

Ink Jet Printing

A continuous ink jet printer has a line () for venting at least some of the air that has been sucked along the gutter line (), and a line () for recirculating back to the printhead () at least some of the air that has been sucked down the gutter line (). Preferably the relative proportions of vented air and recirculated air can be varied, so as to reduce solvent loss during normal operation but allow increased solvent loss if the ink is over-dilute. Preferably the air recirculated to the printhead is connected directly into the flow path from the gutter orifice to the source of gutter suction, without opening into the space containing the ink jet. This reduces the tendency of solvent in the recirculated air condense on the printhead electrodes. 146.-. (canceled)47. A gutter for a continuous ink jet printer , the gutter having a first enclosed fluid flow path through it extending from a place for entry of ink from the ink jet of the printer in use to a place for connection to a suction line for sucking away ink in the first enclosed fluid flow path , and a second enclosed fluid flow path through it extending from a place for connection to a supply of air to a junction with the first enclosed fluid flow path , the junction being within the gutter and between the place for entry of ink and the place for connection to a suction line.48. The gutter according to claim 47 , wherein the junction is no more than 10 mm along the first enclosed fluid flow path from the place for entry of ink.49. The gutter according to claim 47 , wherein the junction is no more than 5 mm along the first enclosed fluid flow path from the place for entry of ink.50. The gutter according to claim 47 , wherein the junction is no more than 2 mm along the first enclosed fluid flow path from the place for entry of ink.51. A printhead for a continuous ink jet printer claim 47 , comprising an ink gun for forming an ink jet and the gutter according to for receiving ink drops of the ink jet that are not ...

Fluid container having plurality of chambers, valves, and air bag assembly

A fluid container includes a housing unit including a free-fluid chamber, a regulated chamber, and a plurality of valves. The free-fluid chamber is configured to store fluid. The regulated chamber includes an air bag assembly, an outlet, and a plurality of states. The air bag assembly is configured to regulate respective fluid therein and includes at least one air bag including an internal chamber having a volume capacity. The outlet is configured to transport the respective fluid from the regulated chamber. At least one of the plurality of valves is configured to selectively stop fluid communication between the regulated chamber and the free-fluid chamber based on the respective state of the regulated chamber.

LIQUID DISCHARGE DEVICE AND LIQUID DISCHARGE METHOD

A liquid discharge device including a discharge unit including: an elastic discharge part including a storage chamber at least partially formed of an elastic component, a supply hole which leads to the storage chamber and through which liquid is supplied to the storage chamber, and a discharge hole through which the liquid is discharged; and an actuating unit configured to vary a volumetric capacity of the storage chamber. The liquid discharge device further includes: a pressurizing unit configured to pressurize the liquid to be supplied to the storage chamber to a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure; a supply control unit configured to control whether the pressurized liquid is supplied to the storage chamber; and an actuation control unit configured to control operation of the actuating unit. 1. A liquid discharge device comprisinga discharge unit configured to discharge a droplet of a liquid including:an elastic discharge part including a storage chamber at least partially formed of an elastic component, a supply hole which leads to the storage chamber and through which the liquid is supplied to the storage chamber, and a discharge hole through which the liquid stored in the storage chamber is discharged; andan actuating unit configured to vary a volumetric capacity of the storage chamber, andthe liquid discharge device further comprising:a pressurizing unit configured to pressurize the liquid to be supplied to the storage chamber to a pressure within a stable range;a supply control unit configured to control whether the pressurized liquid is supplied to the storage chamber; andan actuation control unit configured to control operation of the actuating unit.24-. (canceled)5. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1 , further comprisinga negative pressurizing unit configured to apply a negative pressure to the liquid in the storage chamber to equalize a pressure of the liquid with the atmospheric pressure.6. The liquid discharge device according to ...

FLUID EJECTION DEVICE INCLUDING RECIRCULATION SYSTEM

A fluid ejection device including, at least, one recirculation system is disclosed. Such recirculation system contains, at least, one drop generator, recirculation channels that include an inlet channel, an outlet channel and a connection channel and a fluid feedhole that communicates with the drop generator via the inlet channel and the outlet channel of the recirculation channel. Also disclosed are inkjet pen containing it and method of using it. 1. A fluid ejection device comprising at least one recirculation system , such recirculation system comprises:a. at least, one drop generator;b. recirculation channels including an inlet channel, an outlet channel and a connection channel;c. a fluid feedhole that communicates with the drop generator via the inlet channel and the outlet channel of the recirculation channels.2. The fluid ejection device according to wherein each drop generator includes a firing chamber and a firing element.3. The fluid ejection device according to wherein each firing element is a resistor.4. The fluid ejection device according to wherein each drop generator includes a nozzle.5. The fluid ejection device according to wherein the recirculation system further comprises an auxiliary resistor.6. The fluid ejection device according to comprising a plurality of recirculation system each including recirculation channels comprising an inlet channel claim 1 , an outlet channel and a connection channel.7. The fluid ejection device according to wherein the recirculation system further comprises particle tolerant architectures.8. The fluid ejection device according to wherein the recirculation system further comprises non-moving part valves.9. The fluid ejection device according to wherein the recirculation system comprises a plurality of drop generators claim 1 , each containing a firing chamber and a firing element.10. The fluid ejection device according to wherein the recirculation system comprises a plurality of drop generators claim 1 , at least an ...

Liquid jet head

A liquid jet apparatus is provided. The liquid jet apparatus includes a first damper chamber and a second damper chamber, a release path operatively associated with both the first damper chamber and the second damper chamber, and a control path connecting the first damper chamber, the second damper chamber, and the release path to each other.

Apparatus and method for pressure regulation

A system for maintaining a desired pressure difference between a first pressure within a chamber and a reference pressure at a reference space. The system may include a peristaltic pump located along a duct that connects the chamber with the reference space. The system may further include a pressure sensor for monitoring an actual pressure difference between the first pressure within the chamber and the reference pressure at the reference space. The system may also include a controller for receiving a signal from the pressure sensor for determining the actual pressure difference from the pressure sensor and for operating the peristaltic pump, in accordance with the actual pressure difference and the desired pressure difference, to increase, decrease or leave unchanged the pressure within the chamber so as to maintain the actual pressure difference within predetermined proximity to the desired pressure difference.

LIQUID JET HEAD AND LIQUID JET APPARATUS

To prevent deterioration of an ejection characteristic, which is caused by adhesion of an air bubble mixed in liquid to channels () and slits () communicated therewith, provided is a liquid jet head, including: a supply port () through which liquid is supplied; a discharge port () through which the liquid is discharged; a liquid supply chamber () communicated with the supply port (); a liquid discharge chamber () communicated with the discharge port (); a channel row () forced of a plurality of channels (), which are provided in parallel between the liquid supply chamber () and the liquid discharge chamber () and communicated with the liquid supply chamber () and the liquid discharge chamber (); and a communication path () for bypassing the liquid from the liquid supply chamber () to the liquid discharge chamber (). An air bubble is removed outside via the communication path (). 1. A liquid jet head , comprising:a supply port through which liquid is supplied;a discharge port through which the liquid is discharged;a liquid supply chamber communicated with the supply port;a liquid discharge chamber communicated with the discharge port;a channel row formed of a plurality of channels provided in parallel to each other between the liquid supply chamber and the liquid discharge chamber, the plurality of channels each being communicated with the liquid supply chamber and the liquid discharge chamber;a plurality of nozzles communicated with the plurality of channels, respectively; anda communication path for bypassing the liquid from the liquid supply chamber to the liquid discharge chamber.2. A liquid jet head according to claim 1 , wherein the communication path is provided in a vicinity of a channel farthest from a position of the supply port.3. A liquid jet head according to claim 1 ,wherein the supply port is positioned at substantially a longitudinal center of one of the liquid supply chamber and the liquid discharge chamber, andwherein the communication path, is ...

LIQUID CONTAINER, LIQUID CONTAINER UNIT, AND LIQUID EJECTING APPARATUS

A liquid container capable of communicating to a liquid ejection head of a liquid ejecting apparatus via a liquid supply member is provided with an injection port for a liquid, a liquid containing portion capable of containing the liquid injected from the injection port, and a supply port capable of connecting to the liquid supply member. A first portion of the liquid container including the injection port is displaceable in a relative manner with respect to a second portion of the liquid container which is different than the first portion and includes the liquid containing portion. 1. A liquid container configured to communicate via a liquid supply member to a liquid ejection head of a liquid ejecting apparatus , comprising:an injection port for a liquid;a liquid containing portion capable of containing the liquid that is injected thereinto from the injection port; anda supply port capable of connecting to the liquid supply member,a first portion of the liquid container including the injection port being displaceable in a relative manner with respect to a second portion of the liquid container which is different than the first portion and includes the liquid containing portion.2. The liquid container according to claim 1 , whereinthe first portion is slideable in a relative manner with respect to the second portion.3. The liquid container according to claim 2 , whereinthe first portion and the second portion are in communication to each other by a tube, and the liquid injected from the injection port flows through an inside of the tube and is injected into the liquid containing portion.4. The liquid container according to claim 1 , whereinthe first portion is constituted of a plurality of members which are displaceable in a relative manner with respect to each other.5. The liquid container according to claim 1 , whereinthe first portion is rotatingly moveable in a relative manner with respect to the second portion.6. The liquid container according to claim 5 , ...

INK SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR PRINTER

An ink supply system for printer to supply ink to a printer head includes an ink reservoir, a filter connected to an outlet end of the ink reservoir, a pump arranged at a front end of the filter, a pressure chamber connected to a front end of the pump, a valve arranged at a front end of the pressure chamber, a pressure sensor connected to the valve by a tube, and a controller for controlling the pump and the valve. The pressure sensor is arranged adjacent to the printer head to detect the ink pressure in the tube, and transmits a pressure signal to the controller. The pump can pump the ink forward to increase ink pressure or rearward to decrease ink pressure. 1. An ink supply system for printer , for supplying ink to a printer head , wherein the ink supply system comprises:an ink reservoir, having an outlet end;a filter, connected to the outlet end of the ink reservoir;a pump, disposed at a front end of the filter;a controller, for controlling the pump to push the ink forward and increase pressure of the supplied ink or to push the ink rearward and decrease pressure of the supplied ink;a pressure chamber, connected to a front end of the pump;a valve, disposed at a front end of the pressure chamber, wherein the controller controls the opening and closing of the valve; anda pressure sensor, wherein the pressure sensor and the valve are disposed between the pressure chamber and the printer head, the pressure sensor is proximal to the printer head in order to detect the ink pressure within the tube, and the pressure sensor transmits the detected pressure value to the controller.2. The ink supply system for printer according to claim 1 , further comprising a sensor proximal to the ink reservoir for detecting the assembly status of the ink reservoir.3. The ink supply system for printer according to claim 1 , wherein the pump is a two-way pump.4. The ink supply system for printer according to claim 3 , wherein the pump is a peristaltic pump having multiple rollers on a ...

LIQUID EJECTING HEAD AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

Disclosed is a liquid ejecting head, including two nozzle sequences, each nozzle sequence including nozzles for ejecting a liquid drop, separate liquid chambers communicating with the nozzles, and two common liquid chambers for supplying a liquid to the separate liquid chambers and correspond to the two nozzle sequences, each common liquid chamber including a supply port for supplying a liquid thereto, an aperture, a cross-section thereof in a second direction orthogonal to a first direction of arrangement of the plural nozzles decreasing toward an end portion thereof in the first direction, wherein the supply port and aperture of one of the two common liquid chambers are provided at one end portion and the other end portion in the first direction, respectively, and the supply port and aperture of another one are provided at the other end portion and the one end portion in the first direction, respectively. 1. A liquid ejecting head , comprising:at least two nozzle sequences, each nozzle sequence including plural nozzles configured to eject a liquid drop;plural separate liquid chambers configured to communicate with the plural nozzles; andat least two common liquid chambers configured to supply a liquid to the plural separate liquid chambers and correspond to the at least two nozzle sequences, each common liquid chamber including a supply port configured to supply a liquid thereto, an aperture, a cross-section of the aperture in a direction orthogonal to a direction of arrangement of the plural nozzles decreasing toward an end portion of each common liquid chamber in the direction of arrangement of the plural nozzles,wherein the supply port of one of the at least two common liquid chambers is provided at a side of one end portion of the at least two common liquid chambers in the direction of arrangement of the plural nozzles and the aperture of the one of the at least two common liquid chambers is provided at a side of the other end portion of the at least two ...

PRINTING APPARATUS

Disclosed is a printing apparatus capable of safe high-speed leakage detection and contact detection of a printhead. The leakage detection and contact detection are executed in the apparatus which prints on a printing medium by scanning a removable printhead mounted to a carriage. When the printhead is mounted, connection with a capacitor used in normal printing is disconnected, a lower voltage is applied to drive a printing element and monitor the voltage. If the monitored voltage is not less than a predetermined threshold, occurrence of a poor contact is determined. This is performed for electric contacts one by one. During the operation, a lower voltage is applied at a predetermined timing to drive a printing element and monitor the voltage. If the monitor voltage is not higher than a predetermined threshold, occurrence of current leakage is determined. 1. A printing apparatus comprising:a printhead;a first power supply line which applies a first voltage to said printhead;a capacitor which is connected between said first power supply line and ground;a first switch, interposed between said capacitor and said printhead on said first power supply line, configured to switch connection and disconnection between said capacitor and said printhead;a second power supply line which is connected between said first switch and said printhead to apply a second voltage lower than the first voltage to said printhead; anda monitor unit configured to monitor a voltage applied to said printhead via said second power supply line while said first switch disconnects said capacitor and said printhead.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein when printing on a printing medium using said printhead claim 1 , said switch connects said capacitor and said printhead.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a second switch claim 1 , provided on said second power supply line claim 1 , configured to cut off application of the second voltage to said printhead.4. The ...

LIQUID EJECTING APPARATUS

Disclosed herein is a liquid ejecting apparatus including: a liquid ejecting head having nozzles that eject a liquid; a plurality of liquid flow passages where the liquid to be supplied to the liquid ejecting head flows; and a heating portion that heats the liquid in the liquid flow passages, in which the liquid flow passages include circulation passages where at least a part of the liquid supplied to the liquid ejecting head is circulated to upstream of the heating portion by being discharged from the liquid ejecting head without passing through the nozzles; and non-circulation passages where the liquid supplied to the liquid ejecting head is not able to be circulated to upstream of the heating portion by being discharged from the liquid ejecting head without passing through the nozzles, and in which the circulation passages are disposed at outer sides of the other liquid flow passages. 1. A liquid ejecting apparatus comprising:a liquid ejecting head having nozzles that eject a liquid;a plurality of liquid flow passages where the liquid to be supplied to the liquid ejecting head flows; anda heating portion that heats the liquid in the liquid flow passages,wherein the liquid flow passages includecirculation passages where the liquid supplied to the liquid ejecting head is circulated to upstream of the heating portion by being discharged from the liquid ejecting head without passing through the nozzles; andnon-circulation passages where the liquid supplied to the liquid ejecting head is not able to be circulated to upstream of the heating portion by being discharged from the liquid ejecting head without passing through the nozzles, andwherein the circulation passages are disposed at outer sides of the other liquid flow passages.2. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein a carriage that holds the liquid ejecting head is included, andwherein at least a part of the circulation passages is provided on the inside of the carriage.3. The liquid ejecting ...

Collect Print Substance

Arrangement or method for collecting and heating print substance that passes through porous media in a printer.

Printing apparatus and method of suppressing rise of temperature of ink storage unit

A printing apparatus includes an ink storage unit; a print head unit which has an ink reception port, an ink discharging device, and an ink exhaust port; an ink return path which is connected to the ink exhaust port and which returns ink exhausted from the ink exhaust port to the ink storage unit; and a cooling device which is arranged in the ink return path and which cools ink which passes through the ink return path.

LIQUID CONTAINER, LIQUID CONTAINER SET, AND INK JET RECORDING APPARATUS

A liquid container detachably mounted on a liquid consuming apparatus includes: a liquid including dispersed particles and a solvent in which the dispersed particles are dispersed; and an accommodation bag accommodating the liquid and provided with a discharge portion discharging the liquid, in which a ratio of a volume of the liquid with respect to a capacity of the accommodation bag when the accommodation bag is used from an initial period of filling is 95% or less. 1. A liquid container detachably mounted on a liquid consuming apparatus , comprising:a liquid including dispersed particles and a solvent in which the dispersed particles are dispersed; andan accommodation bag accommodating the liquid and provided with a discharge portion discharging the liquid,wherein a ratio of a volume of the liquid with respect to a capacity of the accommodation bag when the accommodation bag is used from an initial period of filling is 95% or less, andwherein the dispersed particles are a glitter pigment or metal oxide.2. The liquid container according to claim 1 , wherein a weight (specific gravity×volume) of the dispersed particles is 10 μg or more.3. The liquid container according to claim 1 , wherein the accommodation bag is a pillow type packaging bag.4. The liquid container according to claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , in a case of being mounted on at least the liquid consuming apparatus claim 1 , a pressing mechanism which presses the accommodation bag and moves the liquid in a direction of a region where the discharge portion is provided is further provided.5. The liquid container according to claim 1 ,wherein the discharge portion is provided with a liquid suction port through which liquid is introduced from the accommodation bag, and a liquid discharge port from which the introduced liquid is derived, andwherein, in a case of being mounted on the liquid consuming apparatus installed in an activatable state, a height of the liquid suction port is arranged to be at a lower ...

INK TANK

An ink tank includes a light-emitting portion and a light-guiding portion for guiding light emitted from the light-emitting portion, wherein the light-guiding portion includes an output portion configured to output the guided light to project individual information about the ink tank and a display portion formed on a side surface different from the output portion and configured to display information about a status of the ink tank by outputting the guided light. 1. An ink tank comprising:a light-emitting portion; anda light-guiding portion for guiding light emitted from the light-emitting portion,wherein the light-guiding portion includes an output portion configured to output the guided light to project individual information about the ink tank and a display portion formed on a side surface different from the output portion and configured to display information about a status of the ink tank by outputting the guided light.2. The ink tank according to claim 1 , wherein the light-guiding portion further includes a translucent light-guiding member claim 1 , andwherein the light-guiding member includes an output surface configured to output the guided light to project the individual information about the ink tank, and a display surface formed on a side surface different from the output surface and configured to display the information about the status of the ink tank by outputting the guided light.3. The ink tank according to claim 2 , wherein the light-guiding member further includes a reflection surface formed inclining toward the output surface for reflecting the guided light claim 2 , andwherein the display surface is configured to display the information about the status of the ink tank by outputting the guided light reflected on the reflection surface.4. The ink tank according to claim 2 , wherein the light-emitting portion is disposed on one surface that is substantially parallel to a bottom surface of the ink tank claim 2 , andwherein the output surface is ...

Liquid ejecting apparatus

A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a change detection device detecting a change in a relative position between an ink cartridge and a recording head, and when the change in the relative position exceeds a certain threshold value, a printer controller closes a valve mechanism so that the destruction of a meniscus in the nozzle is prevented.

Liquid supplying mechanism, computer readable medium and image forming apparatus

A liquid supplying mechanism includes a control unit that controls a first pressure adjusting unit and a second pressure adjusting unit by control parameters each having a given initial value on the basis of a supply pressure detected by a first detecting unit and a discharge pressure detected by a second detecting unit, respectively, so that the supply pressure is higher than the discharge pressure while a back pressure at a nozzle surface is maintained at a given value, and when deviations of the detected supply pressure and the detected discharge pressure with respect to the corresponding target pressure value exceed a given reference value, controls each of the first pressure adjusting unit and the second pressure adjusting unit by changing the control parameters from the initial values.

LIQUID EJECTION APPARATUS

A liquid ejection apparatus includes: a head including: a nozzle configured to eject liquid; a supply port to which the liquid is continuously supplied; and a recovery port from which the liquid is continuously recovered; a supply flow channel through which the liquid is supplied to the head; and a recovery flow channel through which the liquid is recovered from the head. A flow channel resistance inside the head from the supply port to the nozzle is R_HEAD_IN. A flow channel resistance inside the head from the nozzle to the recovery port is R_HEAD_OUT. A flow channel resistance of the supply flow channel is R_CHANNEL_IN. A flow channel resistance of the recovery flow channel is R_CHANNEL_OUT. The supply and recovery flow channels are laid out so as to satisfy a condition of R_CHANNEL_IN>R_CHANNEL_OUT when R_HEAD_IN>R_HEAD_OUT, or a condition of R_CHANNEL_INR_HEAD_OUT, the supply flow channel and the recovery flow channel are laid out so as to satisfy a condition of R_CHANNEL_IN>R_CHANNEL_OUT; andwhen R_HEAD_IN Подробнее

WASTE INK RECLAMATION APPARATUS FOR LIQUID INK RECIRCULATION SYSTEM

An ink reclamation receptacle receives ink purged from an inkjet printing Apparatus. Ink in the reclamation receptacle wets a porous membrane positioned in the reclamation receptacle, and flows into a flow channel. Negative pressure applied to a port that is placed in fluid communication with the flow channel withdraws ink from the flow channel for use in the inkjet printing apparatus, while ink wetting the pores in the membrane resists a flow of air into the flow channel. 1. An ink reclamation receptacle comprising:a gutter having a front wall, a back wall, and a bottom wall that form a volume for ink collection;a membrane positioned within the volume for ink collection to divide the volume for ink collection into a collection reservoir and a flow channel, the membrane having pores of a predetermined size and a predetermined wettability; anda port configured to enable fluid communication between the volume for ink collection and the flow channel to enable ink in the volume for ink collection to wet the membrane in response to a portion of the membrane contacting the ink and to enable a negative pressure established at the port to draw ink from the volume for ink collection through the flow channel to the port.2. The ink reclamation receptacle of wherein the membrane has a plurality of pores having sizes in a range of 1 μm to 100 μm.3. The ink reclamation receptacle of wherein the port is positioned between a first end and a second end of the back wall.4. The ink reclamation receptacle of wherein the membrane is oriented horizontally within the volume for ink collection and the membrane divides the volume for ink collection into an upper portion and a lower portion.5. The ink reclamation receptacle of wherein the membrane is oriented vertically within the volume for ink collection and the membrane divides the volume for ink collection into a front portion and a rear portion.6. The ink reclamation receptacle of further comprising:a wall positioned adjacent to the ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS INCLUDING RECORDING HEAD AND HEAD TANK

An image forming apparatus includes a recording head, a head tank, a main tank, a liquid feed device, and a controller. When the main tank is in an ink end state, the controller causes the feed device to feed the liquid in reverse from the head tank to the main tank. When air is unlikely to be mixed with the liquid or the liquid is unlikely to be bubbled in the head tank before installation of a new main tank, the controller causes the feed device to feed the liquid from the main tank to the head tank with an air release unit opened after the installation. When air is likely to be mixed with the liquid or the liquid is likely to be bubbled in the head tank before the installation, the controller causes the feed device to feed the liquid with the release unit closed after the installation. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:a recording head to eject droplets of liquid;a head tank to store the liquid to be supplied to the recording head;a main tank to store the liquid to be supplied to the head tank;a reversible liquid feed device disposed between the main tank and the head tank;a controller to control the liquid feed device to feed the liquid from the main tank to the head tank and in reverse from the head tank to the main tank: andan air release unit disposed at the head tank to open an interior of the head tank to an atmosphere;wherein, when the main tank is in an ink end state, the controller causes the liquid feed device to feed a predetermined amount of the liquid in reverse from the head tank to the main tank,when air is unlikely to be mixed with the liquid in the head tank or the liquid is unlikely to be bubbled in the head tank before a new main tank is installed in replacement of the main tank, the controller causes the liquid feed device to feed the liquid from the main tank to the head tank with the air release unit opened after the new main tank is installed in replacement of the main tank; andwhen air is likely to be mixed with the liquid in the ...

LIQUID CONTAINER AND APPARATUS IN WHICH LIQUID CONTAINER IS MOUNTABLE

A liquid container and an apparatus in which the liquid container is mountable are provided, the liquid container and the apparatus enabling the presence or absence of remaining liquid to be checked without the need for a power source and even after the liquid container is removed. The pressure in a communication path is maintained while ink in a containing section is not supplied to the exterior. Thus, the displacement state of a detection valve which is displaced depending on the pressure in the communication path can be maintained even after removal of an ink tank. 1. A liquid container comprising:a containing section at least partly formed of a flexible member and containing a liquid;a supply section configured to supply the liquid in the containing section to an exterior through a supply path which is in communication with inside of the containing section;a displacement section configured to be displaced depending on a pressure in a communication path which is in communication with the inside of the containing section; anda valve section configured to maintain the pressure in the communication path while the liquid in the containing section is not supplied to the exterior.2. The liquid container according to claim 1 , wherein the valve section includes a check valve disposed in the supply path claim 1 , the check valve permitting a flow of the liquid from the containing section to the supply section and inhibiting a flow of the ink from the supply section to the containing section.3. The liquid container according to claim 2 , wherein the communication path is in communication with a portion of the supply path between the containing section and the supply section claim 2 , andthe valve section is provided between the portion of the supply path and the supply section.4. The liquid container according to claim 3 , wherein the valve section is also provided between the containing section and the portion of the supply path.5. The liquid container according to claim ...

LIQUID EJECTION HEAD AND RECORDING APPARATUS

A liquid ejection head is constructed by providing a recording element substrate on a supporting member. The recording element substrate has at least one thermal energy generating element and a liquid supply port for supplying liquid to the element. The supporting member has three or more supply flow paths running there through. Two or more beams are formed in each of the supply flow paths. The gap between the beams formed in each of the end supply flow paths is greater than the gap between the beams formed in an inside supply from path. 1. A liquid ejection head comprising:a recording element substrate having a supply port for supplying liquid to the inside and adapted to apply heat to the liquid supplied from the supply port and eject the liquid;a supporting member having a supporting surface for supporting the recording element substrate and supply flow paths communicating with the supply port and running through the supporting member from the supporting surface to the surface opposite to the supporting surface, the recording element substrate being so disposed as to stride over the openings of the supply flow paths; andat least two beams arranged in each inside of the supply flow paths and held in contact with the recording element substrate;the supporting member having at least three supply flow paths;the openings of the at least three supply flow paths being aligned in the first direction running along the supporting surface;the at least two beams arranged in each of the at least three supply flow paths being separated from each other by a gap as viewed in the second direction intersecting the first direction and running along the supporting surface;the gap separating in the second direction the at least two beams arranged in each inside of the supply flow paths disposed at the ends as viewed in the first direction out of the at least three supply flow paths being greater than the gap separating in the second direction the at least two beams arranged in the ...

LAMINATED INK SUPPLY STRUCTURE MOUNTED IN INK DISTRIBUTION ARRANGEMENT OF AN INKJET PRINTER

An ink distribution assembly for distributing different inks from respective ink sources to a plurality of print chips which together define an inkjet printhead. The assembly includes: a longitudinal distribution molding having an ink duct for each of the different inks extending longitudinally therealong; an ink inlet port corresponding to each ink duct, each ink inlet port being in fluid communication with a respective ink source for delivering ink from each ink source to a respective one of the ink ducts; and a laminated ink distribution stack in fluid communication with the distribution molding for distributing ink from the ducts to the print chips. 1. An ink distribution assembly for distributing different inks from respective ink sources to a plurality of print chips which together define an inkjet printhead , the assembly comprising:a longitudinal distribution molding having an ink duct for each said different ink extending longitudinally therealong;an ink inlet port corresponding to each said ink duct, each ink inlet port being in fluid communication with a respective ink source for delivering ink from each said ink source to a respective one of said ink ducts; anda laminated ink distribution stack in fluid communication with said distribution molding for distributing ink from said ducts to said print chips.2. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein each ink duct is substantially coextensive with the printhead.3. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the laminated ink distribution stack includes multiple layers positioned one upon another.4. The assembly of wherein the layers are adhered to one another.5. The assembly of claim 3 , wherein a first layer has a plurality of ink holes defined therethrough claim 3 , each ink hole conveying ink from one of said ducts en route to one of more of said print chips.6. The assembly of wherein at least one first ink hole has an associated channel defined in an underside of said layer claim 5 , said channel communicating with said ...

Printhead adapter for pigmented ink

An inkjet printhead adapter, including a chassis operative to accommodate one or more printheads and include one or more ink recycling valves and one or more ink supply valves communicating with an ink reservoir via an ink feeding tube and with one or more printhead accommodated in the adapter and wherein the ink supply valve is operative to direct a flow of ink from the feeding tube to one or more of the printhead and the ink recycling valve.

NON-CONTACT METHOD OF REMOVING FLOODED INK FROM PRINTHEAD PAGE

An ink supply system for an inkjet printhead. The ink supply system includes: an ink reservoir for containing ink, the ink reservoir having a flexible wall; a spring contained within the ink reservoir, the spring being configured for biasing the flexible wall away from an opposite wall of the ink reservoir; an ink conduit providing fluid communication between the ink reservoir and the printhead; and a pressure device for positively pressurizing the flexible wall of the ink reservoir against the bias of the spring. The pressure device includes an air pump for positively pressurizing an air chamber communicating with the flexible wall, such that actuation of the air pump causes the wall to move towards the opposite wall against the bias of the spring. 2. The ink supply system of comprising a plurality of ink reservoirs.3. The ink supply system of claim 1 , wherein said pressure device is configured for pressurizing a plurality of flexible walls of a respective plurality of ink reservoirs simultaneously.4. The ink supply system of claim 3 , wherein each ink reservoir has a respective ink conduit providing fluid communication between each ink reservoir and said printhead.5. The ink supply system of claim 1 , further comprising a controller for controlling operation of said pressure device. The present application is a Continuation of Ser. No. 11/482,960 filed on Jul. 10, 2006, which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/246,708 filed on Oct. 11, 2005, now issued U.S. Pat. No. 7,506,952, the entire contents of which are now incorporated by reference.This invention relates to inkjet printhead maintenance. It has been developed primarily for facilitating maintenance operations, such as unblocking nozzles and/or cleaning particulates from an ink ejection face of the printhead.The following applications have been filed by the Applicant:The disclosures of these co-pending applications are incorporated herein by reference.Various methods, systems and ...

Recirculation of ink

An apparatus includes an inkjet assembly having inkjet nozzles through each of which ink flows at a nominal flow rate as it is ejected from the nozzle onto a substrate. Ink is held under a nominal negative pressure associated with a characteristic of a meniscus of the ink in the nozzle when ejection of ink from the nozzle is not occurring. The apparatus includes recirculation flow paths, each flow path having a nozzle end at which it opens into one of the nozzles and another location spaced from the nozzle end that is to be subjected to a recirculation pressure lower than the nominal negative pressure so that ink is recirculated from the nozzle through the flow path at a recirculation flow rate. Each recirculation flow path has a fluidic resistance between the nozzle end and the other location such that a recirculation pressure at the nozzle end of the flow path that results from the recirculation pressure applied at the other location of the flow path is small enough so that any reduction in flow rate below the nominal flow rate when ink is being ejected is less than a threshold, or a change in the nominal negative pressure when ink is not being ejected is less than a threshold, or both. 1. An apparatus comprising:an inkjet assembly having inkjet nozzles through each of which ink flows at a nominal flow rate as it is ejected from the nozzle onto a substrate, and in which ink is held under a nominal negative pressure associated with a characteristic of a meniscus of the ink in the nozzle when ejection of ink from the nozzle is not occurring,recirculation flow paths, each flow path having a nozzle end at which it opens into one of the nozzles and another location spaced from the nozzle end that is to be subjected to a recirculation pressure lower than the nominal negative pressure so that ink is recirculated from the nozzle through the flow path at a recirculation flow rate,each recirculation flow path having a fluidic resistance between the nozzle end and the other ...

LIQUID INJECTING APPARATUS

Provided is a liquid injecting apparatus equipped with a liquid injecting head, which is mounted on a carriage and moved reciprocally in a widthwise direction of a target, and a valve unit, which is mounted on the carriage to be supplied with liquid via a supply passage from a liquid retainer and to supply liquid to the liquid injecting head. The valve unit has a pressure chamber connected to the liquid retainer via the supply passage; a valve, which opens or closes the supply passage to supply liquid to the pressure chamber; and a flexible film member, which is displaced based on a negative pressure generated as liquid in the pressure chamber decreases to thereby operate the valve. 1. A liquid injecting apparatus equipped with a liquid storing member , which stores liquid; a liquid injecting head , which injects liquid; a liquid supply passage , for supplying said liquid to the liquid injecting head from the liquid storing member; and a valve unit , which is provided in the liquid supply passage , the valve unit having:a supply chamber, into which liquid to be supplied from the liquid storing member flows;a pressure chamber, in which liquid to be led out to the liquid injecting head is stored; anda valve, which connects the supply chamber to the pressure chamber by a negative pressure generated in the pressure chamber as the liquid is injected from the liquid injecting head,wherein the supply chamber has a supply chamber opening through which the liquid is supplied from the supply chamber to the pressure chamber, andwherein the valve selectively opens and closes the supply chamber opening.2. The liquid injecting apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the pressure chamber has an outer wall which is displaced based on the negative pressure claim 1 , and the displacement of the outer wall is transmitted to the valve.3. The liquid injecting apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the valve unit has an urging member claim 1 , which urges the valve in a direction to ...

Ink Jet Printer

An ink jet printer may include an ink jet head, a cam member, a cam follower, and a valve operation mechanism. The ink jet head may comprise an ink chamber, an exhaust passage communicating with the ink chamber, and an exhaust valve disposed at the exhaust passage. The cam member may comprise a cam groove and be configured to rotate. The cam groove may comprise first, second and third grooves. The second groove and the third groove may branch from one end of the first groove. The cam follower may be configured to be guided along the cam groove. The valve operation mechanism may be coupled to the cam follower. In a state where the cam follower is present in a predetermined position in the third groove, the valve operation mechanism may make contact with the exhaust valve, and the exhaust valve may be in an opened state. 1. An ink jet printer , comprising:an ink jet head comprising an ink chamber, an exhaust passage communicating with the ink chamber, and an exhaust valve disposed at the exhaust passage;a cam member comprising a cam groove, the cam member configured to rotate, the cam groove comprising a first groove, a second groove, and a third groove, wherein the second groove and the third groove branch from one end of the first groove;a cam follower configured to be guided along the cam groove in a case where the cam member rotates; anda valve operation mechanism coupled to the cam follower, the valve operation mechanism comprising:a first member fixed to the cam follower and comprising a guide groove;a second member configured to be guided along the guide groove between a first position and a second position;a spring configured to apply a force to the first member in a predetermined direction; anda movement member configured to move between a third position and a fourth position,whereinin a state where the movement member is present at the third position, the movement member allows the first member to move in the predetermined direction by the movement member ...

Inkjet recording device

An inkjet recording device including a line engine including a plurality of recording heads that are aligned in a main scanning direction, in which an arbitrary one of the plurality of recording heads is replaceable. Each of the plurality of recording heads includes a head tank attached on the corresponding one of the plurality of recording heads. The head tank includes a supply port and a discharge port for ink. The head tanks that are adjacent to each other are connected by the respective discharge ports and the supply ports.

LIQUID EJECTING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF CIRCULATING LIQUID

A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a storage unit which stores liquid, a head unit which ejects the liquid onto a medium, a plurality of supply flow paths which supplies the liquid to the head unit from the storage unit, a plurality of bypass flow paths which straddles the supply flow paths which are different from each other, and a controller which circulates the liquid in a circulating flow path which is configured only by the supply flow path and the bypass flow path among the storage unit, the head unit, the supply flow path, and the bypass flow path. 1. A liquid ejecting apparatus comprising:a storage unit which stores liquid;a head unit which ejects the liquid onto a medium;a plurality of supply flow paths which supplies the liquid to the head unit from the storage unit;a plurality of bypass flow paths which straddles the supply flow paths which are different from each other; anda controller which circulates the liquid in a circulating flow path which is configured only by the supply flow path and the bypass flow path among the storage unit, the head unit, the supply flow path, and the bypass flow path.2. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising:three or more of the supply flow paths,wherein the circulating flow path is configured such that the plurality of bypass flow paths does not straddle between the two supply flow paths with respect to any set of two supply flow paths among three or more supply flow paths.3. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising:a first supply flow path, a second supply flow path, a third supply flow path, and a fourth supply flow path as the three or more supply flow path;a first bypass flow path which straddles the first supply flow path and the second supply flow path;a second bypass flow path which straddles the second supply flow path and the third supply flow path;a third bypass flow path which straddles the third supply flow path and the fourth supply flow path; ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS HAVING INK JET HEAD AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING MAINTENANCE OF THE SAME

An image forming apparatus includes an ink jet head, having a pressure chamber, a flow path and a nozzle, which ejects ink in the pressure chamber through the nozzle, a first tank connected to the flow path, a supply unit which supplies ink in the first tank to the pressure chamber through the flow path, a second tank connected to the flow path, a discharge unit which moves ink in the pressure chamber to the second tank through the flow path, and a control section which activates the supply unit and the discharge unit so that ink in the pressure chamber is discharged to the second tank by the discharge unit, ink in the first tank is charged to the pressure chamber by the supply unit and the liquid surface of ink supplied to the pressure chamber is projected from the nozzle. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:an ink jet head, including a pressure chamber to which ink is charged, a flow path fluidly communicating with the pressure chamber and a nozzle open to the pressure chamber, which is configured to eject ink in the pressure chamber from the nozzle;a first tank, connected to the flow path of the head, which is configured to store ink;a supply unit configured to supply the ink in the first tank to the pressure chamber of the head through the flow path of the head;a second tank, connected to the flow path of the head, which is configured to store ink;a discharge unit configured to move the ink in the pressure chamber of the head to the second tank through the flow path of the head; anda control section configured to activate the supply unit and the discharge unit so that the ink in the pressure chamber is discharged to the second tank by the discharge unit, the ink in the first tank is charged to the pressure chamber by the supply unit and the liquid surface of the ink supplied to the pressure chamber is projected from the nozzle of the head.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the discharge unit moves the ink in the pressure chamber of the head to ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS INCLUDING LIQUID EJECTION HEAD FOR EJECTING LIQUID DROPLETS

An image forming apparatus includes a liquid ejection head, a head tank, a liquid storage container, a liquid supply passage, a liquid feed device, a control valve, and a suction device. The control valve is disposed at the liquid supply passage to open and close the liquid supply passage between the head tank and the liquid storage container. The head tank has a filter, a flow channel, a deformable wall face member, and a gap maintaining elastic member. The wall face member is opposed to the filter and forms a wall face of the channel. The elastic member is disposed in the head tank to urge the wall face member in a direction to increase a gap between the wall face member and the filter. When the suction device sucks liquid from the nozzles with the valve closed, the wall face member deforms in a direction to approach the filter. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:a liquid ejection head having nozzles to eject droplets of liquid;a head tank to supply the liquid to the liquid ejection head;a liquid storage container to store the liquid;a liquid supply passage connecting the head tank to the liquid storage container;a liquid feed device to feed the liquid from the liquid storage container to the head tank via the liquid supply passage;a control valve disposed at the liquid supply passage to open and close quid supply passage between the head tank and the liquid storage container; anda suction device to suck the liquid from the nozzles, a filter to filter the liquid,', 'a flow channel to supply the liquid to the liquid ejection head,', 'a deformable wall face member opposed to the filter and forming a wall face of the flow channel, and', 'a gap maintaining elastic member disposed in the head tank to urge the wall face member in a direction to increase a gap between the wall face member and the filter, and', 'wherein, when the suction device sucks the liquid from the nozzles with the control valve closed, the wall face member deforms in a direction to approach ...

LIQUID EJECTING APPARATUS

A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a liquid ejecting head that ejects liquid from nozzles; a liquid accommodation body having a liquid receiving surface configured to accommodate the liquid flushed from the nozzles; a pump that discharges the liquid; a liquid supply flow path that discharges the liquid discharged by the pump toward the liquid receiving surface in the liquid accommodation body; and a liquid discharge flow path that discharges the liquid from the liquid accommodation body. 1. A liquid ejecting apparatus comprising:a liquid ejecting head that ejects liquid from nozzles;a liquid accommodation body having a liquid receiving surface configured to accommodate the liquid flushed from the nozzles;a pump that discharges the liquid;a liquid supply flow path that discharges the liquid discharged by the pump toward the liquid receiving surface in the liquid accommodation body; anda liquid discharge flow path that discharges the liquid from the liquid accommodation body.2. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the pump is a pump that discharges the liquid ejected from the nozzles of the liquid ejecting head via a cap capable of coming into contact with the nozzles so as to surround the nozzles.3. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the liquid receiving surface forms an inclined surface shape, and a discharge port configured to discharge the liquid toward the liquid receiving surface from the liquid supply flow path is formed on a lower side of the liquid receiving surface in a vertical direction.4. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the liquid supply flow path is configured so that a height of a part connected to the liquid accommodation body in the vertical direction is lower than that of a part serving as the pump side.5. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein a flow path diameter of the liquid discharge flow path is greater than a flow path diameter of the liquid ...

LIQUID EJECTING APPARATUS AND LIQUID TRANSFER METHOD

A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a head unit that ejects a liquid onto a medium; a first liquid accommodation unit that accommodates the liquid; a second liquid accommodation unit that is different from the first liquid accommodation unit; a first flow channel that communicates with the first liquid accommodation unit and the head unit; a second flow channel that communicates with the first flow channel and the second liquid accommodation unit; and a liquid supply unit that delivers the liquid from the first liquid accommodation unit to the second liquid accommodation unit through the first flow channel and the second flow channel and that returns the liquid from the second liquid accommodation unit to the first liquid accommodation unit through the second flow channel and the first flow channel. 1. A liquid ejecting apparatus comprising:a head unit that ejects a liquid onto a medium;a first liquid accommodation unit that accommodates the liquid;a second liquid accommodation unit that is different from the first liquid accommodation unit;a first flow channel that communicates with the first liquid accommodation unit and the head unit;a second flow channel that communicates with the first flow channel and the second liquid accommodation unit; anda liquid supply unit that delivers the liquid from the first liquid accommodation unit to the second liquid accommodation unit through the first flow channel and the second flow channel and that returns the liquid from the second liquid accommodation unit to the first liquid accommodation unit through the second flow channel and the first flow channel.2. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to further comprising:an on-off valve that opens or closes an outflow of the liquid which is accommodated in the first liquid accommodation unit, being provided on the first flow channel,wherein the first flow channel is connected to the second flow channel at a position further to the head unit side than a position of the on-off ...

PRINT HEAD WITH ELECTROMAGNETIC VALVE ASSEMBLY

A print head includes an ink cavity, a nozzle in fluid communication with the ink cavity, and at least one valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a stopper positioned adjacent the nozzle and adapted to control flow of ink through the nozzle and an arm supporting the stopper. The arm is configured to pivotally move the stopper with respect to the nozzle to control the flow of ink through the nozzle. An electromagnet is positioned adjacent the arm and configured to move the arm toward the electromagnet to open the nozzle. A biasing member biases the arm away from the electromagnet to close the nozzle. 1. A print head comprising:a ink cavity comprising ink;a nozzle in fluid communication with the ink cavity; and a stopper positioned adjacent the nozzle and adapted to control flow of ink through the nozzle;', 'an arm supporting the stopper, the arm configured to pivotally move the stopper with respect to the nozzle to control the flow of ink through the nozzle;', 'an electromagnet positioned adjacent the arm and configured to move the arm toward the electromagnet to open the nozzle; and', 'a biasing member to bias the arm away from the electromagnet to close the nozzle., 'at least one valve assembly comprising2. The print head of wherein a stopper gap is defined by the distance between the stopper and the nozzle when the stopper is in a maximum open position and a pole gap is defined by the distance between the electromagnet and the arm when the stopper is in a closed position claim 1 , wherein the stopper gap is greater than the pole gap.3. The print head of wherein a stopper gap is defined by the distance between the stopper and the nozzle when the stopper is in a maximum open position and a pole gap is defined by the distance between the electromagnet and the arm when the stopper is in a closed position claim 1 , wherein the stopper gap is generally equal to the pole gap.4. The print head of wherein a stopper gap is defined by the distance between the stopper ...

Liquid-jet head and image forming apparatus

A liquid-jet head includes nozzles ejecting liquid drops, individual liquid chambers in communication with the corresponding nozzles, a common liquid chamber supplying the liquid to the individual liquid chambers, and a filter member filtering the liquid inside the common liquid chamber. The filter member includes a thin layer having pores and a thick layer on a circumferential part of the thin layer, the thick layer being bonded to the first common liquid chamber member; the thin layer includes a first surface having the thick layer and a second surface opposite to the first surface, a circumferential part of the second surface being bonded to the second common liquid chamber member with an adhesive; and part of or all the pores in the circumferential part of the second surface are exposed in a direction toward the thick layer, and the adhesive overflows into the pores.

Digital drop patterning device and method

A liquid dispenser array structure includes a liquid dispensing channel. A first liquid supply provides a carrier liquid that flows continuously through an outlet of the liquid dispensing channel during a drop dispensing operation. A plurality of liquid dispensers, located on a common substrate, includes a liquid supply channel and a second liquid supply that provides a functional liquid, immiscible in the carrier liquid, to the liquid dispensing channel through the liquid supply channel. A drop formation device, associated with an interface of the liquid supply channel and the liquid dispensing channel, is selectively actuated to form a discrete drop of the functional liquid in the carrier liquid flowing through the liquid dispensing channel.

LIQUID DROPLET EJECTION APPARATUS

A liquid droplet ejection apparatus includes: a plurality of discharge openings for discharging bubbles in liquid supply flow passages supplying liquid from liquid chambers to a liquid droplet ejection head, for each of the liquid chambers; a first opening and closing section being capable of opening and closing the discharge openings; and a first pushing section causing the discharge openings to be opened and closed by moving the first opening and closing section. The first opening and closing section includes a plurality of first cover portions that can cover each of the discharge openings, a first contact portion corresponding to the first pushing section and common to the first cover portions, and a first connecting portion connecting the first cover portions with the first contact portion. 1. A liquid droplet ejection apparatus for ejecting liquid droplet from a liquid droplet ejection head , comprising:a plurality of liquid chambers configured to store liquid;a plurality of liquid supply flow passages configured to supply the liquid from the liquid chambers to the liquid droplet ejection head;a plurality of discharge openings provided at each of the liquid chambers and configured to discharge bubbles in the liquid supply flow passages;a first opening and closing section which is able to open and close the discharge openings, and which includes a plurality of first cover portions being able to cover each of the discharge openings, a first contact portion common to and corresponding to the first cover portions, and a first connecting portion connecting the first cover portions with the first contact portion; anda first pushing section configured to push the first contact portion to open and close the discharge openings by moving the first opening and closing section.2. The liquid droplet ejection apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first opening and closing section is configured to rotate around a first shaft provided at the first connecting portion.3. ...

LIQUID SUPPLYING APPARATUS AND ITS CONTROL METHOD

A liquid passage communicates a first reservoir of a main tank with a second reservoir storing a liquid supplied from the first reservoir, and has one end portion on the side communicating with the first reservoir, which joins with or detach from the main tank. To increase the liquid volume in the second reservoir up to a first predetermined volume, a controller feeds the liquid in the first reservoir to the second reservoir when the liquid volume in the second reservoir is less than a second predetermined volume. When the liquid volume in the second reservoir falls short of the first predetermined volume, the end portion of the liquid passage is detached from the main tank. Then, the controller determined whether the liquid volume in the second reservoir is equal to or more than the first predetermined volume. 1. A liquid supplying apparatus , comprising:a tank receiving portion configured to receive a main tank, the main tank comprising a first reservoir configured to store a liquid in such a manner as to seal off the surrounding space and configured to shrink as the liquid is fed to the outside of the first reservoir;a sub tank disposed in a position lower than a position of the tank receiving portion, which comprises a second reservoir configured to store the liquid supplied from the first reservoir of the main tank set to the tank receiving portion;a liquid passage configured to communicate the first reservoir of the main tank set to the tank receiving portion with the second reservoir, whose one end portion on the side to be in communication with the first reservoir is configured to be joined with or detached from the main tank;a mover configured to move the tank receiving portion and the end portion of the liquid passage relatively to each other so as to join or detach the end portion of the liquid passage with or from the main tank set to the tank receiving portion;a liquid feeder configured to feed the liquid stored in the first reservoir of the main tank ...

Compliant liquid path member and receptacle for ink recirculation

In an inkjet printer, an ink reclamation apparatus receives ink emitted from at least one printhead. The ink reclamation apparatus includes an ink receptacle and a liquid path member that extends from the ink receptacle to contact the face of at least one printhead proximate to a plurality of inkjets in the at least one printhead. The liquid path member draws liquid ink from the plurality of inkjets and the liquid ink enters the ink receptacle. The ink reclamation apparatus returns the ink to a reservoir in the printhead and reduces or eliminates wasted ink during operation of the at least one printhead.