Printing Fluid Container

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DESCRIPTION

Liquid container for printing.

Background

Inkjet printing systems often use one or more replaceable ink containers that contain a finite volume of ink. One of the ink containers can be replaced if the container cannot release the ink. For example, an ink container can be replaced if all the ink in the container has been used and the container is empty. Many known ink containers cannot release all the ink contained in the container and are in fact considered empty even though there is still some ink in the container. Those ink containers can be replaced when the container stops releasing ink properly. Users generally prefer ink containers that do not need to be replaced frequently. Additionally, users generally prefer ink containers that can be easily replaced when they need to be changed.

JP63004953 describes an ink container comprising a reservoir and a flat front surface.

Brief description of the drawings

Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a liquid ejection system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a partially schematic view of one embodiment of a printing liquid release system as used in the liquid ejection system of Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of the compartment of a liquid container for printing in the open position, as used in the liquid delivery system of Fig. 2.

Fig. 4 shows the compartment of the printing liquid container of Fig. 3 in the closed position.

Fig. 5 shows a front isometric view of a recording liquid container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 shows a bottom view of the recording liquid container of Fig. 5.

Fig. 7 shows a rear isometric view of the impression liquid container of Fig. 5.

Fig. 8 shows a set of three printing liquid containers formed by combining three different reservoir bodies with three similarly configured lids.

Figures 9-11 show top cross-sectional views of a recording liquid container seated within the recording liquid container compartment of an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 12 shows a cross-sectional view of a coding post configured to mate with a corresponding coding housing of a recording liquid container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 13 shows five coding posts configured to code five different printing liquids respectively.

Figures 14 to 16 show side cross-sectional views of a recording liquid container seated within the compartment for the recording liquid container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 17 shows a cross-sectional view of a sealing member of the recording liquid container of Figures 14 to 16.

Fig. 18 is a relatively schematic view of a ball sealing mechanism of the recording liquid container of Figures 14 to 16.

Fig. 19 shows the ball seal mechanism of Fig. 18 coupled via a liquid connector.

Fig. 20 shows the liquid connector of Fig. 19.

Fig. 21 schematically shows a recording liquid level of a recording liquid container including a well.

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Fig. 22 schematically shows a recording liquid level of a recording liquid container that does not include a well.

Fig. 23 shows a rear isometric view of a recording liquid container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 24 to 26 show top cross-sectional views of a recording liquid container seated within the recording liquid container compartment in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 27 to 29 show side cross-sectional views of a recording liquid container seated within the recording liquid container compartment in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed description

Fig. 1 schematically shows a liquid ejection system 10. Although liquid ejection systems can be configured to eject a number of different liquids onto a corresponding variety of media in various embodiments, this description focuses on one example of a printing system. used to eject, or print, ink on paper. However, it should be understood that other printing systems, as well as liquid ejection systems for non-printing related applications, are also within the scope of this description.

The liquid ejection system 10 includes a control system 12, a media positioning system 14, a liquid delivery system 16, and a control interface 18. The control system 12 may include various components, such as a card of printed circuits, a processor, a memory, an application-specific integrated circuit, etc., which perform liquid ejection corresponding to a received liquid ejection signal 20. The liquid ejection signals may be received via a wired or wireless control interface 18, or by other suitable mechanism. The liquid ejection signals may include instructions to carry out a desired liquid ejection process. Upon receiving that liquid eject signal, the control system can cause the media positioning system 14 and the liquid release system 16 to cooperate to eject the liquid onto a medium 22. As an example, a liquid ejection signal may include a print job that defines the printing of a particular image. The control system can interpret the print job and cause liquid, such as ink, to be ejected onto paper in a pattern that replicates the image defined by the print job.

The media positioning system 14 can control the relative placement of the liquid ejection system and a medium onto which the liquid ejection system will eject the liquid. For example, the media positioning system 14 may include a paper supply that advances the paper through a printing area 24 of the liquid ejection system. The media positioning system may additionally or alternatively include a mechanism for lateral placement of a print head, or other suitable device, to eject liquid over different areas of the print zone. The relative position of the medium and the liquid ejection system can be controlled so that the liquid can only be ejected over a desired portion of the medium. In some embodiments, the media positioning system 14 may be selectively configurable to accommodate two or more different types and / or sizes of media.

Fig. 2 schematically shows an example of a liquid release system in the form of a print liquid release system 16 '. The recording liquid delivery system includes a scanning print head 30, which may include one or more nozzles adapted to receive a recording liquid from a liquid supply and eject the recording liquid onto a recording medium. A nozzle can be associated with a liquid ejector, such as a semiconductor resistor, which is operatively connected to a control system. The control system can make the liquid ejector selectively heat the printing liquid that is released to the liquid ejector. In embodiments using a resistor such as the liquid ejector, the resistor can be activated by directing current through the resistor in one or more pulses. The heated printing liquid can at least partially evaporate and create a printing liquid bubble. The expansion of the printing liquid bubble may cause some of the liquid to be ejected from the corresponding nozzle onto the print medium. A print head can be adapted to print a single color of ink, or two or more different colors of ink, as well as a preconditioner, a fixer, and / or other printing liquid. The use of other mechanisms for ejection of liquid onto a medium is within the scope of this description, and the recording head 30 is included as a non-limiting example. For example, a print head may include a liquid ejector to effect ejection of the liquid by a non-thermal mechanism, such as vibration.

The printing liquid release system 16 'includes an off-axis ink supply station 40. An "off-axis" ink supply can be located separate from a print head so that the head can scan. through an area for printing while the ink supply remains essentially stationary. Such an arrangement can reduce the overall weight of a printhead assembly compared to a printhead assembly that includes a built-in ink supply.

ES 2 345 161 T3 to the shaft. A relatively lightweight printhead assembly may require relatively less energy to move, while still being able to move faster, quieter, and / or with less vibration than a printhead with an ink supply built into the spindle. An off-axis ink supply can be positioned so that it is easy to access, to facilitate refilling of the ink supply, and can be sized to hold a desired volume of ink. As explained in more detail below, an ink supply station can be configured for forward loading so that the printing liquid container can be inserted laterally into the printing system. The stationary position and relatively easy access of an off-axis ink supply can allow for the storage and release of relatively large volumes of ink.

An off-axis ink supply may include containers for storing and releasing one or more ink colors, as well as other printing liquids. For example, ink supply station 40 includes six ink container compartments configured to house six corresponding ink containers. In the illustrated embodiment, the ink supply station 40 includes a yellow compartment 42, a dark magenta compartment 44, a light magenta compartment 46, a dark cyan compartment 48, a light cyan compartment 50, and a black compartment 52, which are respectively adapted to receive a yellow ink container 54, a dark magenta ink container 56, a light magenta ink container 58, a dark cyan ink container 60, a light cyan ink container 62, and a black ink container 64. Other printing systems may be designed to be used with more or fewer colors, including colors other than those described above. It should be understood that, as used herein, "ink" can be used in a general sense to refer to other printing liquids, such as preconditioners, fixatives, etc., which may also be contained in an ink container. and can be released by a liquid release system. Two or more ink containers containing a printing liquid of the same color and / or type may be used in the same printing system. In some embodiments, one or more of the ink container compartments may be a different size than another compartment. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the black compartment 52 is larger than the other ink container compartments, and therefore can accommodate a relatively larger ink container. As described in more detail below, a compartment for a particular ink container can house ink containers of different sizes.

The ink release system 16 'includes an ink transport system 70 configured to move the ink from the ink supply station to the print head. In some embodiments, the ink transport system may be a bi-directional transport system, capable of moving ink from the ink supply station to the print head and in the opposite direction. An ink transport system can include one or more transport routes for each ink color. In the illustrated embodiment, the ink transport system 70 includes a tube 72 that attaches an ink container from the ink supply station to the print head. In the illustrated embodiment, there are six such tubes that fluidly connect the containers to the printhead. A tube can be structured with sufficient length and flexibility to allow the print head to scan through a print area. Furthermore, the tube can be, at least partially, chemically inert with respect to the ink it carries.

The ink transport system may include one or more mechanisms configured to transport the ink through a transport route. Those mechanisms can work to establish a pressure differential that facilitates movement of the ink. In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid transport system 70 includes a pump 74 configured to transport the ink through each tube 72. That pump can be configured as a bi-directional pump, configured to move the ink in different directions through a corresponding ink transport path.

An ink transport route can include two or more portions. For example, each tube 72 includes a static portion 76 that connects an ink container to the pump, and a dynamic portion 78 that connects the pump to the printhead. The transport path can also include a pump portion that effectively links the static portion with the dynamic portion, and interacts with the pump to effect transport of the ink. Individual portions of an ink transport path can be physically separate segments that are fluidly linked by one or more interconnections. In some embodiments, a single tube segment connecting the ink container to the print head can be functionally divided into two or more portions, including static and dynamic portions. In the illustrated embodiment, the dynamic portion 78 is adapted to link a stationary ink supply station with a scanning print head that moves during printing, and thus the dynamic portion is configured to move and flex. with the print head. The static portion, which connects the stationary ink supply station with a stationary pump, can remain essentially fixed.

An ink container of ink supply station 40 may include an opening configured to facilitate entry and exit of ink from the container. For example, an opening can fluidly connect the inside of an ink container to the atmosphere to help reduce unfavorable pressure gradients that could hinder ink transport. Such an aperture may be configured to limit the leakage of ink from the container through the aperture, thus avoiding unnecessary waste of ink. An example of an opening in the form of a liquid interface is described in more detail below.

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The printing liquid release system 16 'may include a vent chamber 90 configured to reduce ink evaporation and / or other types of ink loss. Each ink container of the ink supply station 40 may be fluidly coupled to a vent chamber 90 via a tube 92 connecting the opening of that ink container to the vent chamber. In other words, the opening of an ink container may be connected to the vent chamber to facilitate transport of the ink between an ink container and the print head. The vent chamber can lower unfavorable pressure gradients while limiting evaporation of ink to the atmosphere. In some embodiments, the vent chamber 90 may include a labyrinth that limits ink loss. Ventilation chamber 90 may be fixed in an essentially stationary position.

As mentioned above, Fig. 2 represents in a partially schematic way the printing liquid release system 16 '. The precise arrangement of the elements that make up the printing liquid release system can be physically accommodated according to a desired industrial design. Similarly, individual elements may vary from the illustrated embodiments, while remaining within the scope of this description. Size, shape, accessibility, and aesthetics are among the factors that can be considered when designing a liquid ejection system utilizing an impression liquid release system in accordance with the present disclosure. Although described and illustrated with reference to an off-shaft ink supply, it should be understood that many of the principles described in this document are applicable to on-shaft ink supplies. Off-shaft ink supply is included as a non-limiting example, and spindle-integrated ink supplies are also within the scope of this disclosure.

Fig. 2 shows an uninstalled dark cyan ink container 60 in solid lines. As indicated by dotted lines at 61, the dark cyan ink container can be installed in the ink supply station 40. Similarly, the other ink containers in the ink supply station 40 can be selectively installed and uninstalled. . In this way, a depleted ink supply can be refilled by installing a full ink container, thus extending the life of a liquid ejection system. The ink supply station can be configured so that individual ink containers can be exchanged independently. For example, if only one ink container runs out, that container can be replaced while the other ink containers are left in place. It should be understood that although Fig. 2 shows an ink container 60 being installed in an ink supply station 40 in a generally vertical direction, this is not necessarily required. The ink supply station 40 can be oriented to receive ink containers that are installed laterally. In addition, a pooled ink supply, which houses two or more different printing liquids and / or colors, can also be seated in a common set of containers.

An ink release system may include an ink level monitor configured to track the amount of ink available for release. An ink level monitor can be configured to monitor individual ink containers, groups of ink containers supplying the same color of ink, and / or the collective ink supply of the system. The ink level monitor may cooperate with a notification system to inform a user of the ink level status, thus allowing the user to assess ink levels and prepare for refilling. Furthermore, as described in more detail below, an ink container may include a memory and an associated electrical interface, and information about the ink level of an ink container may be stored in that memory and transmitted via the electrical interface.

Figures 3 and 4 show a more detailed view of an example of an ink container compartment 100 configured to selectively receive an ink container 102. FIG. 3 shows an ink container compartment 100 in the open position, and Fig. 4 shows a compartment for an ink container in a closed position, in which the compartment is holding the ink container 102. The compartment for an ink container may include a base 104 adapted to mate with a portion of an ink container. In other words, the seat 104 and a portion of the ink container can be configured to be complementary, so that the ink container can be seated on the base. The base can be made of a size and shape corresponding to the size and shape of a portion of the ink container, such as the lid of the ink container and / or a portion of the shoulder of the body of the ink container reservoir. The ink container compartment may include a latch 106 adapted to hold the ink container in place. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 106 rotates on a hinge to engage a portion of the edge 108 of the ink container 102. The edge portion 108 is an example of a closure surface, which can be engaged by a latch to holding an ink container in an ink container compartment. In the illustrated embodiment, latch 106 includes an open space 110 through which rear portion 112 of ink container 102 may protrude.

A latch, or a combination of two or more latches, configured to hold an ink container in place, can be configured to engage ink containers of different sizes. In some embodiments, a latch is may engage one or more portions of an ink container, such as the sealing surface of a portion of the rim 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 106 includes a plunger 114 configured to engage the edge portion 108 on each side of the ink container, while the rear portion 112 protrudes through the open space 110. The plunger 114 includes a elastic member adapted to apply pressure to seat ink container 102 when latch 106 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, two or more latches may be separate movable components that facilitate engagement of large rear portions, or a unitary latch that can be configured to engage large rear portions. Also, in some embodiments, alternate or additional locking mechanisms can be used to hold an ink container in place.

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Figures 5-7 show an ink container 120 that includes a container lid 122 and an ink container reservoir body 124 that are complementary configured to collectively define a limited volume in which the ink can be contained. The cap and reservoir body of the ink container may be collectively referred to as a reservoir, an ink reservoir, or a printing liquid reservoir. In some embodiments, such a reservoir may be formed from a single structural piece, or from two or more pieces that are connected differently than that shown in the illustrated embodiment. The cap 122 may include an inner side facing the interior of the ink container when the reservoir body is coupled to the cap. The lid may include one or more portions adapted to engage the body of the reservoir or to secure the lid in some other way to the body of the reservoir. In some embodiments, the lid and the reservoir body can be releasably secured to each other, while in other embodiments, a lid and reservoir body that are essentially permanently connected can be used. A gasket or other suitable seal may be fitted at an interface between the cap 122 and the reservoir body 124 to enhance the ability of the cap and reservoir body to hold a volume of ink or other printing liquid.

Ink container 120 may be configured as a free ink container adapted to hold a free volume of ink. As used herein, an ink free volume refers to a volume of ink that is contained within a container without the use of a sponge, foam, ink bag, or other similar intermediate containment mechanism or device for applying back pressure. A free ink container can be essentially "open" within its limits, thus allowing a relatively large percentage of the interior volume to be filled with ink, which can flow freely within the reservoir. As described in more detail herein, the design of ink container 120 allows a free volume of ink to be drawn and released to a printhead. Furthermore, as described below, a very large percentage of a free volume of ink can be drawn from a free ink container, thus limiting the amount of ink retained.

The ink container lid 122 includes an outer face 126 facing away from the contents of the ink container. The outer face 126 may be designed to be the "forward" facing portion of an ink container when the container is installed in the corresponding ink container compartment. Accordingly, the outer face can be considered the main surface of the ink container, or a surface aligned with the main plane of the ink container. In some embodiments, a portion of the recording fluid container, other than a lid and similar to the ink container lid 122, may be the major surface of the recording fluid container.

The ink container lid 122 may be formed with an outer face 126 having an essentially flat profile. As described in more detail below, the outer face may include one or more notches adapted to provide mechanical alignment and / or coding. The outer face may additionally or alternatively include holes leading from the exterior of an ink container to the interior of the container. These holes can be used as liquid interfaces for movement of the printing liquid and / or air from inside the ink container to the outside of the container, and vice versa. There may be an entry point for each notch, hole, and / or other type of interface on the same major surface. In some embodiments, the entry points to various interfaces of a printing liquid container can be located on towers that protrude from another portion of the main surface. Those embodiments may not have an essentially flat profile; however, the entry points of various mechanical, liquid, and / or electrical interfaces may be aligned on a common principal plane. In some embodiments, the entry point to each interface may be arranged within an acceptable distance on both sides of a main plane. For example, in some embodiments, any forward or backward variation of the entry point of one interface, relative to the entry point of another interface, can be less than about 5mm, whereas in most embodiments, Those variations can be less than about 2mm, or even 1mm. An ink container lid having an outer face with an essentially flat profile can be referred to as an essentially flat ink container lid, although such a lid may have a measurable thickness, an irregular inner side and / or a or more deviations of the surface on its external face.

The ink container lid 122 may be made as a unitary structural part 130, in contrast to a combination of two or more structural parts. That part can be molded, extrusion formed, or otherwise shaped from a material selected for strength, weight, operability, cost, ink compatibility, and / or other considerations. For example, the cap can be injection molded from a suitable synthetic material. Construction from a unitary structural piece produces an ink container lid in which an inner side and an outer face are opposite sides of the same piece of material.

An ink container lid constructed from a unitary structural part can be fitted with complementary ancillary components. For example, a gasket can be used to form a liquid-tight seal between the ink container lid and the reservoir body. A liquid interface formed in a unitary structural part can be fitted with a seal configured to selectively seal the ink within the ink container. The seal may take the form of a diaphragm, diaphragm and ball assembly, or other mechanism. A memory device may be attached to the ink container lid 122, and the container lid could be equipped with an electrical interface for transferring data to and from the memory device. Those auxiliary components can be adapted to cooperate integrally with the unitary structural part that defines the overall size and shape of the ink container lid.

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Ink container 120 includes reservoir body 124 that cooperates with ink container lid 122 to provide a structural boundary for containing a volume of ink. As described in more detail below, the various mechanical, electrical, and liquid interfaces of the ink container 122 may be disposed on the lid of the ink container. In other words, the functionality of the interfaces of an ink container can be essentially consolidated in the container lid, thus providing freedom for the design of the container body. For example, Fig. 8 shows the ink container lid 122 with three different sized reservoir bodies 124a-124c. As can be seen, ink containers with different ink capacities can be formed by combining different tank bodies with the same ink container lid. Therefore, the size of an ink container can be selectively decided to provide a desired ink capacity. Additionally, two or more ink containers having different capacities can be alternately installed in the same ink container compartment, thus providing greater flexibility in printer setup. Standardizing the design of ink container lids can also help reduce manufacturing costs. It should be understood that caps with different configuration of the ink containers are also within the scope of this description.

A portion of the reservoir body of an ink container may be configured in a standard size and shape, while another portion is configured in a size and shape that varies between two or more configurations. For example, Fig. 8 shows reservoir bodies 124a-124c, respectively including portions of shoulder 132a-132c, which are similarly configured to each other. Those portions of the shoulder have a width that is essentially the same as the corresponding width of the lid of the ink container. The reservoir bodies 124a-124c also respectively include the rear portions 134a-134c, which are configured differently from each other. Those rear portions have a width that is less than the corresponding width of the lid of the ink container. The shoulder and rear portions are joined by edge portions 136a-136c, which include sealing surfaces 138a-138c. Configuring a portion of the reservoir body, such as the shoulder portions 132a-132c, with a standard size and shape improves compatibility between different ink containers, similar to the compatibility provided by a standard ink container cap 122. For example, different ink containers that have similarly configured boss portions, but that may have different sized rear portions, can be secured with the same latch.

The reservoir body 124 may be configured to serve as the handling portion of an ink container. An ink container can be physically held and manipulated as the container is loaded and unloaded from the ink container compartment of an ink supply station. An ink container can also be held by the holding portion during the refilling process, during maintenance, or in various other situations. The reservoir body 124 can be used to manipulate the ink container in those cases. The tank body can be configured to the appropriate size and shape for a comfortable and secure hold. In addition, the surface of the tank body can be tailored to improve traction when holding it, such as with a textured surface. The shape of the reservoir body can also facilitate insertion of the printing liquid container into the corresponding compartment for the ink container of the ink supply station. For example, the lack of symmetry along the horizontal axis helps to define an upper and a lower part that can be easily observed by the user, thus simplifying installation of the ink container in the corresponding compartment for the container.

As mentioned above, the ink container lid may include one or more interface elements corresponding to complementary functions of the ink container compartment adapted to house the container. For example, as shown in Fig. 5, the ink container lid 122 includes an interface pack 150 comprising an alignment housing 152, a coding housing 154, an upper liquid interface in the form of an air interface 156, a lower liquid interface in the form of of an ink interface 158 and an electrical interface 160. The interface pack 150 is positioned on the inside of the outer perimeter 128 of the ink container cap 122. In other words, the elements that make up the interface pack 150 are not positioned around a side edge of the ink container lid, or anywhere else on the reservoir body.

As described in more detail below, interface pack 150 is an example of a set of mechanical, liquid, and electrical interfaces adapted to allow and / or enhance the release of ink from the ink container. Interface pack 150 is included as a non-limiting example, and other arrangements may include additional and / or alternative items. Furthermore, the placement of the various elements may vary from the illustrated embodiment.

FIG. 5 shows an example alignment housing 152 configured to position an ink container in a desired location with a desired orientation. Such placement facilitates the correspondence of an ink container with a compartment for the ink container. In particular, an alignment housing can be used to position an ink container in the proper position so that various aspects of the ink container are aligned to correspond with respective aspects of the ink container compartment. For example, the coding housing 154 can be aligned with a corresponding coding post of the ink container compartment. Air interface 156 and ink interface 158 can be aligned with corresponding air and ink connectors in the ink container compartment. Electrical interface 160 can be aligned with a corresponding electrical contact in the ink container compartment.

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The alignment housing 152 may be formed by a notch in the main surface of the liquid container for printing, thus providing a robust interface that is less prone to damage compared to a tower interface that protrudes from the main surface of the liquid container. for printing. In some embodiments, the alignment pocket can be a notch in a major surface of 10 millimeters, 15 millimeters, or more. The cross-sectional width of the alignment pocket can be selected to obtain a desired length-to-width ratio. In particular, a length / width ratio of about 1.5 has been found to limit the rotation of the recording liquid container when engaged with the corresponding alignment member. Ratios ranging from 1.0 to 4.0 may be adequate in some embodiments, with ratios between 1.2 and 2.0 being appropriate in most circumstances. The width of the alignment housing can be selected to be large enough to house alignment members that are mechanically strong enough to resist twisting forces that could cause rotation of the printing fluid container and misalignment of various elements. interface.

Figures 9-11 and 14-16 show a series of cross-sectional views of an ink container 120 that sits within the ink container compartment 170. Figures 9-11 are top views showing an ink container 120 that is moving from an unseated position to a seated position. Similarly, Figures 14-15 are side views showing an ink container 120 that is moving from an unseated position to a seated position. The ink container cap 122 includes an alignment housing 152 formed in a notch in the central portion of the ink container cap. In the illustrated embodiment, the alignment housing 152 includes an end surface 172 and side walls 174 formed in a notch on a generally flat outer face, or major surface. The alignment housing can be formed to a suitable size such that it is deep enough to house a corresponding alignment member projecting outward 176 from the ink container compartment 170. The side walls 174 may be arranged perpendicular to the outer face, or one or more of the side walls may be tapered so that the cross-sectional area of ​​an opening 178 in the alignment housing 152 is greater than the cross-sectional area. terminal surface 172.

The fit between the alignment member 176 and the alignment housing 152 can be tight enough that when the alignment housing mates with the alignment member, the ink container cap 122 is effectively constrained to a desired path of movement. . In this way, the alignment of the ink container lid and the ink container compartment can be ensured. The adjustment can be established by physical contact between portions of the alignment housing 152 and the alignment member 176. That contact can be made along entire surfaces of the alignment housing and the alignment member, as shown in the diagrams. . In some embodiments, the contact can be made along portions smaller than the entire surface. In some embodiments, the correspondence between an alignment member and the alignment housing may be less close, and the alignment housing can simply be shaped to a size that can accommodate the projecting alignment component, without closely engaging the alignment member. .

The ink container lid 122 may include a progressive alignment mechanism, in which the alignment of the ink container lid becomes more precise as the container lid seats more fully in the ink container compartment. . For example, the outer perimeter 128 can be shaped slightly smaller than the corresponding side walls 180 of the ink container compartment 170, and the ink container compartment can be configured to engage the lid of the ink container. ink before the alignment housing closely engages the alignment member. Therefore, the outer perimeter can provide path alignment for the lid of the ink container. The fit between the ink container and the side walls 180 can be relatively forgiving so that it is easy to initiate path alignment. Although the path alignment may be less accurate than the alignment provided by the alignment housing 172, the ink container may be in a wider range of positions when the path alignment is started, compared to when it starts. the finest lineup. The ink container and the ink container compartment may be configured so that the alignment housing 152 is directed into a position to engage the alignment member 176 by the interaction in the alignment path between the outer perimeter 128, the shoulder portion 132 and side walls 180. In some embodiments, the path alignment may not include an actual physical interaction, but rather a visual cue for positioning the ink container in a roughly aligned position.

The alignment member 176 and the alignment housing 152 can be configured in a complementary manner, such that the fit between the alignment member and the alignment housing progressively narrows as the ink container lid is seated in the compartment. for the ink container. For example, some embodiments of an alignment housing may be configured with a cross-sectional area of ​​an opening 178 that is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​end surface 172. Additionally, alignment member 176 may be configured with a end 182 having a cross-sectional area that corresponds to the cross-sectional area of ​​end surface 172. Therefore, the end 182 can be relatively loosely fitted in the opening 178, and at the same time fit closely when fully seated toward the end surface 172. As the alignment member and alignment housing more fully fit between yes, the fit between the alignment housing and the alignment member can be progressively narrowed. In some embodiments, the end of an alignment member may include a slight taper or rounding that facilitates initiation of alignment contact with the alignment housing.

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A progressive alignment system can be used to ensure that some aspects of the ink container lid 122 are correctly aligned with the corresponding elements of the ink container compartment 170. In other words, the fit between the alignment housing and the Alignment member can be designed to achieve a desired level of tightness before an interface package element (eg. g., ink interface, air interface, coding housing, electrical interface, etc.) mates with the corresponding element of the ink container compartment. Progressive alignment can also facilitate alignment initiation because there is a greater tolerance in ink container placement at the beginning of settling than when the ink container is fully seated in the ink container compartment. Once the alignment is started, the ink container can be effectively directed to a desired location with the desired orientation and with greater precision. The interaction between the elements of the ink container and the elements of the ink container compartment can be designed to begin when the desired level of precision has been obtained. The progressive alignment system described above is included as a non-limiting example. Other progressive alignment systems can be used. Also, some embodiments may use non-progressive alignment systems.

FIG. 5 shows an example of a coding housing 154 configured to ensure that the ink container is seated in the appropriate compartment for the ink container. Each compartment of an ink supply station can be adapted to receive an ink container containing a particular printing liquid (ink type, ink color, fixer, preconditioner, etc.). For example, each ink container compartment may include a coding post with a unique shape and / or orientation corresponding to the color of ink that compartment is adapted to receive. Similarly, an ink container containing that ink color may include a coding housing that closely matches a corresponding coding post associated with that color. A coding post can match a coding housing in a mutually exclusive relationship, which means that a coding post associated with one ink color will not match a coding housing associated with a different ink color, or any other type. of liquid for printing. In other words, each ink color can be uniquely coded by a combination of uniquely configured coding post and coding housing. In this way, a feature of the coding housing of a recording liquid container can designate the recording liquid contained in the container.

A coding housing can be used to provide physical validation that a liquid container is being inserted into the correct compartment for the liquid container. For example, an encoding housing can provide tactile feedback during an ink container loading attempt into an ink container compartment. The coding housing and / or coding post can be configured so that the tactile feedback can be distinctly different, depending on whether the ink container is being loaded into the compartment configured to release the ink color that the container contains. ink or a different ink color. A coding housing may be adapted to prohibit ink containers from being loaded into ink container compartments that do not include a coding post that corresponds to the coding housing of the ink container lid. In some embodiments, such an ink container can be loaded; however, the interaction between the non-complementary coding post and the coding housing can generate a feel that is distinctly different from the feel of the complementary coding elements when coupled with each other. For example, there could be more resistance when inserting an ink container that includes a coding housing that is not configured complementary to the coding post to which the coding housing is being fitted.

Figures 9-11 show a cross-sectional view of the coding housing 154 receiving the coding post 190 as the ink container 120 is seated within the ink container compartment 170. The coding housing 154 and the post coding numbers 190 are complementary configured based on a corresponding ink color. A coding housing, such as coding housing 154, may be configured to match only coding posts that correspond to the correct ink color. Other ink containers may include similar coding housings adapted to match different coding posts associated with different ink colors. In this way, each ink color that a printing system is configured to release can be associated with a unique combination of coding post and corresponding coding housing. Although described primarily in reference to matching to a particular ink color, it should be understood that a coding mechanism can be used to code alternate or additional aspects of printing fluids. For example, a particular type of ink, such as photo ink, can be uniquely coded to ensure that the proper type of ink is installed in a particular compartment. Additionally, other printing liquids, such as preconditioners and / or fixatives, can be coded to ensure that a liquid container containing that liquid is installed in a corresponding compartment that is configured to release that liquid.

The alignment member 176 may be configured to engage with the alignment housing 152 before the coding post 190 engages with the coding housing 154. Therefore, the alignment member and the alignment housing can cooperate to ensure that the coding housing 154 is properly positioned for engagement with the coding post 190. The alignment member may be longer than the coding post to facilitate mating between the alignment member and the alignment housing prior to mating the coding post with the coding housing. In those embodiments, the alignment pocket may be deeper than the coding pocket. In some embodiments, the

ES 2 345 161 T3 coding housing and alignment housing may be configured to respectively engage a coding post and alignment member at essentially the same time. In some embodiments, the functionality of an alignment housing and a coding housing can be incorporated into a single element configured to position an ink container in a desired location with a desired orientation, and ensure that the ink container seats in the appropriate compartment for the ink container.

Fig. 12 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of an example of a coding post 190, which is configured to be inserted into a complementary configured coding housing 154. In the illustrated embodiment, the coding post 190 has a "Y" configuration that includes a first spoke 192, a second spoke 194, and a third spoke 196. The angle α between the first radius 192 and the second radius 194 is the same as the angle α between the first radius 192 and the third radius 196. The angle θ between the second radius 194 and the third radius 196 is less than the angle α . The coding post can be described as symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry S, which passes through the first radius 192 and bisects the angle θ. As illustrated, the code post 190 is not symmetric with respect to any other axis that is coplanar with the axis of symmetry S.

Coding housing 154 is shaped to mate with coding post 190 so that each spoke effectively slides into the corresponding slot in the coding housing. Unique coding interfaces can be based on the same general shape of a combination of a coding post and a particular coding housing, but by rotating the orientation of the combination. For example, a different interface can be configured by rotating a symmetry angle of a coding post that has the same general shape as the coding post 190. A corresponding coding housing can be similarly rotated to produce a unique interface combination. . For example, a symmetry angle can be rotated in 45 ° increments to produce 8 unique code post combinations. Fig. 13 shows five such configurations that can be used to encode five different ink colors than the ink color encoded by the coding post 190. The coding post and coding housing configurations described above are included as a non-limiting example. Other encoding interfaces can be used.

An encoding interface can be further and / or alternatively varied relative to another encoding interface by moving the relative position of the encoding interface in an ink container and in the associated ink container compartment. For example, using the example described above, in which a code post can be rotated in 45 ° increments to produce 8 different possible code post configurations; A code post location can be selected from 3 different locations, to produce a total of 24 (8x3) unique code post configurations. The coding housings, with their corresponding locations and orientations, can be configured to match those coding posts. If desired, additional coding configurations can be obtained by decreasing the magnitude of the rotation increments, adding coding post locations, adding new coding post shapes, etc. For example, a code post can be rotated in 22.5 ° increments to produce 16 different settings. Similarly, different shapes of the coding posts and coding housings can be used, for example, "T", "L" and "V" shapes.

As described above, an ink container coding and / or alignment element can be configured as a notch extending into the ink container, in contrast to a protrusion extending outward from the container. from ink. That notch provides a robust interface that is resistant to damage. Furthermore, the configuration of an ink container with a notch does not interrupt the generally flat profile of the outer face of the ink container cap.

LaFig. 5 shows an example of an upper liquid interface 156 and an example of a lower liquid interface 158, which are configured to transfer ink, air, or a mixture of ink and air to and / or from the ink container 120. As used herein, an upper liquid interface 156 refers to an air interface, and a lower liquid interface 158 refers to an ink interface. However, it should be understood that both interfaces can, in some embodiments and / or modes of operation, transfer ink, air, or a mixture of these. In an exemplary mode of operation, the lower liquid interface 158 can release a printing liquid, while the upper liquid interface 156 controls the pressure within the printing liquid container.

In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid interfaces are configured as diaphragms having a ball seal design. The liquid interfaces are adapted to seal the contents of the ink container, so that there is no undesirable leakage of the contents. Each interface is configured to receive a removable liquid connector, such as a hollow needle, that can penetrate the selective seal of a diaphragm and transfer liquid in and out of the ink container. The diaphragm can be configured to prevent unwanted leakage when a liquid connector is inserted and after the connector has been pulled out. For example, the diaphragm can tightly wrap an inserted needle, so that air or ink can pass through the needle, but not between the needle and the diaphragm.

Figures 14-16 show a liquid connector 200 mating to air interface 156 and a liquid connector 202 mating to ink interface 158. Alignment member 176 may be configured to mate with alignment housing 152 prior to Make sure the liquid connectors mate with the liquid interfaces. Therefore, the alignment member and the alignment housing can cooperate to ensure

ES 2 345 161 T3 that the liquid interfaces are positioned correctly for mating with the liquid connectors. In other words, the alignment interface prevents the liquid connectors from engaging in an unwanted portion of the ink container, which could cause damage to the liquid connectors. The entry points to the liquid interfaces can be positioned essentially coplanar with the principal plane of the ink container, in contrast to being positioned on the alignment posts that extend from the outer face of the ink container, because the housing The alignment member and the alignment member cooperate to align the liquid interfaces correctly.

Figures 17 to 19 show a more detailed view of a sealing member 260 of the liquid interface 158. The sealing member 260 includes a ball sealing portion 262 that is shaped appropriately to mate with a conforming biased plug member. to performance to form a liquid-tight seal that prevents unwanted liquid leakage when the liquid interface is not engaged via the corresponding liquid connector (Fig. 18). The sealing portion 260 also includes a needle sealing portion 264 that prevents unwanted leakage of liquid when the liquid interface is engaged via the corresponding liquid connector (Fig. 19). As shown in Fig. 18, a spring member 266 urges a plug member 268 against the ball seal portion 262 of the seal member. The sealing portion 262 is shaped complementary to the cap member, such that when the cap member is pressed against the sealing portion, a liquid-tight seal is established. As shown in Fig. 19, a liquid connector 202 can be inserted through the sealing member 260, and the liquid connector can move the plug member away from the sealing member against a restoring force applied by the member. of dock. As the plug member moves away from the sealing member, the liquid-tight seal between the sealing member and the plug member is loosened. However, a liquid-tight seal can be established between the liquid connector and the sealing member. As shown in Fig. 20, the liquid connector 202 may include an end portion 272 having liquid passage elements 274 that allow liquid flow into the hollow portion 276 of the liquid connector when the connector engages the plug member. . The foregoing is included as a non-limiting example of a possible configuration for a liquid interface and the corresponding liquid connector. It should be understood that other mechanisms can be used to selectively seal the liquid in a liquid container, while remaining within the scope of this disclosure. As an example, a slotted diaphragm that self-seals when the needle is withdrawn can be used.

As shown in Figures 14 through 16, the ink interface 158 can be positioned near the gravitational bottom of an ink container that is oriented in a seating position in the corresponding compartment for the ink container. In that position, the liquid connector 202 is also close to the gravitational bottom of the ink container. In addition, the ink container reservoir body 124 can be shaped with a bottom surface 204 that slopes toward the liquid connector, so that the ink can flow naturally into the liquid connector. In other words, the bottom surface 204 is gravitationally skewed toward a lower portion of the ink container. In the illustrated embodiment, the shape of the ink container produces an ink well 206 configured to allow ink to flow to the proper position for access by liquid connector 202. Due to the position of the ink well relative to the rest of the reservoir, printing liquid can accumulate in the ink well as the ink level drops. The liquid connector 202 can continue to draw the ink occupying the ink well 206 as the ink level drops during use.

The well, ink interface, and corresponding liquid connector can be positioned to limit the amount of ink that is retained in the ink container, thus minimizing waste. In some embodiments, a container of printing liquid can release all but a maximum of 2 cubic centimeters of printing liquid; in most embodiments, everything except a maximum of 1 cubic centimeter is released. As mentioned above, the size of the tank body can be increased, thus providing a larger ink capacity. However, these reservoirs can be configured with an ink well similar to well 206, or they can be configured differently so that there is an ink interface near the bottom of the reservoir, thus minimizing the amount of ink that can be retained. inside the ink container. In other words, according to this description, the amount of ink that can be retained within an ink container does not have to be proportional to the capacity of the ink container.

As shown in FIG. 5, the outer face 126 of the ink container cap 122 may include a protrusion 210 in which the ink interface 158 is located. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 210 is configured to allowing the central portion of the ink interface 158, through which a liquid connector can pass, to be positioned near a low point of the ink container reservoir. Therefore, a liquid connector can be inserted into the liquid interface to draw ink from a relatively low area of ​​the ink container, thus facilitating the extraction of a higher percentage of ink from the ink container. The protrusion 210 also allows the ink interface to be located near the bottom of the ink reservoir while remaining on the outer perimeter 128 of the outer face 126.

Fig. 21 relatively schematically illustrates a protrusion 210, which is aligned with a depression 212 that is formed from a notch in a portion of the bottom surface 204, thus forming a well 206. The well 206 may be gravitationally more lower than the rest of the reservoir, thus facilitating the accumulation of printing fluids in the well as the printing fluids are removed from the container. In other words, a portion of the bottom surface well 207 can be shaped as an indentation from the remainder of the bottom surface. To improve the accumulation of printing liquids in the well 206, the bottom surface 204 can be gravitationally skewed towards the well, so that the printing liquids can flow

ES 2 345 161 T3 effectively "down" into the well. Bottom surface 204 can be shaped without any dummy wells, which could accumulate trapped printing liquid without a liquid path to well 206.

The bulge 210 and the depression 212 may be essentially aligned with each other, as illustrated in the presented embodiment. When so aligned, a downward edge profile of the main surface traces a downward edge profile of the bottom surface. The bulge 210 and depression 212 may be horizontally aligned with respect to the ink container lid 122. The bulge and depression may be additionally or alternatively aligned horizontally with respect to an insertion axis of the ink container compartment. In other words, the bulge can be placed on the lid of the ink container, so that when the ink container is installed in the corresponding compartment for the ink container, the bulge and / or a liquid interface on the bulge remain positioned essentially equidistant from both sides of the ink container compartment.

In Fig. 21, a liquid level 214 is schematically illustrated, and it is shown how much ink can be drawn from the recording liquid container when the container includes a well. In contrast, Fig. 22 schematically illustrates a liquid level 216 of a container that does not include a well. As can be seen by comparison, well 206 limits the amount of printing liquid retained. Although the depth of liquid level 214 and liquid level 216 may be comparable, the volume of impression liquid associated with liquid level 214 is considerably less than the volume of impression liquid associated with liquid level 216. The well 206 can be configured such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of a liquid container delimiting the liquid level 214 is less than the cross-sectional area of ​​a liquid container delimiting the liquid level 216, thus decreasing the respective volumes if similar depths are assumed. In some embodiments, well 206 may be configured to reduce the upper surface area (and corresponding volume) of a liquid level that corresponds to an effectively empty container by at least 75%, and generally by 90% or more. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the capacity of the remainder of an ink container can be increased without changing the size of the well and without causing an increase in the amount of printing liquid that will be retained in the container. Well 206 can be of various sizes and shapes. As a general rule, the volume of well 206 can be reduced to decrease the amount of recording liquid that may be retained within the container. Well 206 may be sized to accommodate a liquid interface with sufficient additional volume to allow free flow of recording liquid into the well.

Air interface 156 can be gravitationally positioned over ink interface 158 when an ink container is oriented in a seating position in the corresponding compartment for the ink container. The upper liquid interface 156 can function as a vent port configured to facilitate balancing of pressures in the ink container. When ink is drawn from ink interface 158, air interface 156 can allow air to enter the ink container reservoir to balance the pressure therein. Similarly, if ink is returned to the ink container, the air interface can vent air out of the ink container. As mentioned above, the upper liquid interface can be fluidly coupled to a vent chamber 90 configured to reduce ink evaporation and / or other types of ink loss. As described and illustrated herein, an ink container (and a corresponding ink container compartment or other mechanism for seating the ink container) can be configured for side installation. A configuration that facilitates side installation also provides design flexibility in a printing system. In particular, a side installation allows a printing system to be designed for front, rear or side loading of an ink container, in contrast to the restricted top loading design.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, an ink interface may be an active interface, fluidly coupled to a pump 74 that is configured to control the release of ink to and from the ink container. An air interface can be a passive interface, which is not directly controlled by a pump, but is configured to allow a natural balance of pressures to be obtained. It should be understood that the illustrated embodiment is included as a non-limiting example, and that other configurations are within the scope of this description. For example, in some embodiments, an air interface can be an active interface that is actively controlled to produce a desired pressure within the ink container.

FIG. 5 shows an electrical interface 160 that is configured to provide a communication and / or power path for one or more electrical devices of ink container 120. Electrical interface 160 may include one or more electrical contacts 162 that are adapted to be electrically linked with the corresponding electrical contacts of the ink container compartment. When the ink container is seated in the ink container compartment, electrical current can travel through the electrical circuit. In this way, information and / or energy can be transmitted through the circuit. For example, an ink container can include a memory device 164, and the electrical interface can be used to write data to the memory device and / or to read data from the memory device. For example, a memory can be configured to store electronic coding information that can be used to validate that the ink container is loaded into an ink container compartment configured to release suitable printing liquid. If an error is detected, electronic coding can be used to disable printing to prevent contamination of the ink release system. The memory may also include an expiration date and / or information about the relative amount of ink remaining in the associated ink container. In some embodiments, an electrical interface may include additional or alternative components, such as an application-specific integrated circuit.

ES 2 345 161 T3

The alignment housing 152 can be positioned approximately in the center of the outer face 126, and the other interfaces of the interface pack 150 can be accommodated around the alignment housing. In this manner, air interface 156, ink interface 158, electrical interface 160, and coding housing 154 can be positioned between alignment housing and outer perimeter 128. As used herein, the term "center" refers to a relatively distal position of the outer perimeter of the outer face of the ink container. The center of the outer face of an ink container can vary depending on the size and shape of the ink container.

Positioning the alignment pocket near the center of the outer face allows each of the other interfaces to be located relatively close to the alignment pocket. Positioning the alignment housing 152 close to the other interfaces can facilitate the alignment of those interfaces with the corresponding elements of the ink container compartment. For example, placing the interfaces close to the alignment pocket can lessen the effect of any tolerances that exist on the alignment interface. Therefore, if the alignment interface allows some variation in alignment, the other interfaces can remain within an acceptable position to mate with corresponding portions of the ink container compartment. In other words, the effects of any movement allowed by the alignment interface can be amplified in proportion to the relative distance of the alignment housing. Therefore, these effects can be minimized by placing the various interface elements close to the alignment pocket.

As illustrated in Fig. 5, the liquid interfaces of an ink container may be positioned along the vertical axis V of the upper surface of the printing liquid container. Alignment housing 152 can also be located along vertical axis V so that vertical axis V intersects upper liquid interface 156, lower liquid interface 158, and alignment housing 152. Similarly, electrical interface 160 and / or coding housing 154 may be positioned along horizontal axis H of the front surface of the recording liquid container. The alignment housing 152 may also be positioned along the horizontal axis H, such that the horizontal axis H intersects the electrical interface, the keying housing, and the alignment housing. In other words, the alignment pack can be accommodated in a "cross" configuration, with the alignment housing located in the center of the cross (the intersection of the vertical axis V and the horizontal axis H). In some embodiments, the horizontal axis H can bisect the vertical axis segment V between the upper liquid interface 156 and the lower liquid interface 158, and / or the vertical axis V can bisect the horizontal axis segment H between the electrical interface. 160 and encoding housing 154. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 5, the vertical axis V may be an axis of symmetry, in which the basic shape of the liquid container is the same to the left and right of the axis. As used with respect to an axis and an interface element, the term "intersect" means that at least a portion of the interface element is crossed by the axis. Therefore, a common axis can intersect two or more elements, even though the precise centers of those elements are not aligned on the axis.

FIG. 23 shows an example of an ink container 220 that includes latch slots 222 adapted to provide a closing surface for the side latch members of an ink container compartment. Figures 24-26 show an ink container 220 as it engages with the container compartment 224. In the illustrated embodiment, ink container compartment 224 includes a side latch member 226 that is configured to releasably secure the ink container in a seated position in the ink compartment. ink container. The side latch member may be elastically movable between at least a closed portion and an open position. For example, the side latch member may be skewed in a closed position in which the side latch member is positioned to contact the ink container when the container is seated in the ink container compartment. As the ink container moves into the container compartment, the ink container causes the side latch member to flex toward an open position, as shown in Fig. 25. As shown in Fig 26, the side latch member resiliently returns to the closed position when the ink container is seated in the ink container compartment. Side latch member 226 includes a clasp 228 that engages the latch slot 222, thereby holding ink container 220 in a seated position in the ink container compartment. The ink container can be unseated by moving the side latch member to the open position.

A pair of latch slots, located on opposite sides of the ink container, can be placed in a coplanar position with the alignment housing. For example, the latch slots 222 may be positioned in the same plane as the alignment housing 230. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking surfaces and the alignment housing are intersected by a common horizontally extending plane. Coding housing 232 and electrical interface 234 can also be placed on the same plane. It should be understood that other locking mechanisms can be configured to apply locking pressure along a plane that passes through an alignment pocket. In some embodiments, a latch slot may be positioned on another plane that intersects an alignment pocket, such as on a vertical plane that intersects an alignment pocket and one or more liquid interfaces.

Figures 27 to 29 show another embodiment in which another closure mechanism is used. As illustrated, an ink container compartment 240 includes an alignment member 242 which in turn includes an internal latch member 244. The internal latch member 244 is configured to selectively engage with an alignment housing 246 when the container The ink is seated in the ink bottle compartment.

ES 2 345 161 T3 ink. The internal latch member may be elastically movable between at least a closed position and an open position. For example, the inner latch member may be skewed in a closed position, in which the inner latch member is positioned so that it contacts the alignment housing 246 when the ink container is seated in the container compartment. from ink. As the ink container moves into the container compartment, the ink container causes the inner latch member to flex to an open position, as shown in Fig. 28. As shown in Fig 29, the inner latch member resiliently returns to the closed position when the ink container is seated in the ink container compartment. The internal latch member 244 includes a clasp 250 that engages the corresponding tab on the latch 252 of the alignment housing 246, thereby holding the ink container 248 in a seated position in the ink container compartment. The ink container can be unseated by moving the inner latch member to the open position.

The side latch and internal latch mechanisms described above are included as non-limiting examples of possible latch configurations. A side latch mechanism and an internal latch mechanism can be used cooperatively or independently of each other. Similarly, a side latch mechanism and / or an internal latch mechanism can be used additionally or alternatively with respect to other latch mechanisms, such as the latch mechanism described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Also, they can use other suitable locking mechanisms.

As described above with reference to the illustrated embodiments, an ink container can include an interface pack with one or more liquid, mechanical, and / or electrical interfaces. The ink container can be described as having a main surface, which is configured to be laterally inserted into the ink container compartment of an ink supply station. The main surface of an ink container can be configured as an essentially flat outer surface. Each of the respective interfaces of the interface pack can be located on the essentially flat major surface of the ink container. The main surface can be described as having an outer perimeter, and the respective interfaces of the interface pack can be located on the inside of the outer perimeter. The illustrated embodiments show a non-limiting example of a configuration for the layout of an interface pack. It should be understood that other arrangements are within the scope of this description, in accordance with the claims.