Printing system

[0001] Inkjet printing systems often use one or more replaceable ink tanks that store a finite volume of ink. The ink tank can be replaced when the ink tank is unable to deliver ink. For example, the ink tank may be replaced when all of the ink in the ink tank has been used up and the ink tank is empty. Many known ink tanks are unable to deliver all of the ink from the ink tank and they are considered to be effectively empty, although some of the ink remains in the ink tank. Such ink tanks may be replaced when the ink tank stops supplying ink properly. Users usually prefer ink tanks, which do not have to be replaced frequently. In addition, users usually prefer ink tanks that are relatively easy to replace when replacement is necessary.

[0002] US 6322205 discloses a container for a printing fluid containing one or more fluids, a mechanical and electrical interface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES [0003]

Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a fluid ejection system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is in some sense a schematic view of an embodiment of the printing fluid supply system used in the fluid ejection system of Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of the print-fluid reservoir recess in the open position used in the fluid supply system of Fig. 2.

Fig. 4 shows the recess for the printing-fluid reservoir of Fig. 3 in the closed position.

Fig. 5 is an isometric front view of the printing fluid reservoir in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a bottom view of the print fluid reservoir of Fig. 5.

Fig. 7 is an isometric rear view of the print fluid reservoir of Fig. 5.

Fig. 8 shows a set of three print fluid tanks formed by joining three different reservoir bodies with three similarly configured lids.

Figures 9-11 are cross-sectional views from above of a printing-fluid reservoir arranged in a printing-fluid reservoir recess in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a key station adapted to be punctured into the corresponding keying pocket of the printing fluid reservoir in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 13 shows five key stations adapted to appropriately key five different printing fluids.

Figures 14-16 are sectional views of the side view of a printing-fluid reservoir arranged in a printing-fluid reservoir recess in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

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Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the sealing member of the printing fluid reservoir of Figures 14-16.

Fig. 18 is in some sense a schematic view of the ball sealing mechanism of the print fluid reservoir of Figures 14-16.

Fig. 19 shows the ball seal mechanism of Fig. 18 in contact with a fluid connector.

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

Fig. 21 schematically shows the printing fluid level of a printing fluid reservoir containing a well.

Fig. 22 schematically shows the printing fluid level of a non-well printing fluid reservoir.

Fig. 23 is an isometric rear view of the print fluid reservoir in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 24-26 are cross-sectional views from above of the print fluid reservoir disposed in the print fluid reservoir recess in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 27-29 are cross-sectional views of the side of a printing-fluid reservoir disposed in a printing-fluid reservoir recess in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0004] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a fluid ejection system 10. Although fluid ejection systems can be adapted to eject a series of different fluids on a number of different substrates respectively in different embodiments, the disclosure is focused on a reference printing system that is used for throwing or printing ink on paper. However, it should be understood that other printing systems as well as fluid ejection systems designed for non-printing applications are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0005] Fluid ejection system 10 includes a control system 12, a substrate setting system 14, a fluid supply system 16 and a control interface 18. The control system 12 may include components such as a printed circuit board, processor, memory, integrated circuit for a specific application, etc. which allow fluid to be ejected according to the received fluid ejection signal 20. Fluid ejection signals can be received via a wired or wireless control interface 18 or other suitable mechanism. Fluid ejection signals may include instructions for performing the desired fluid ejection process. Upon receiving such a fluid ejection signal, the control system may cause the substrate positioning system 14 and the fluid supply system 16 to jointly throw fluid onto the substrate 22. As one example, the fluid ejection signal may include a print job specifying a specific image to print. The control system can interpret the print job and cause fluid, such as ink, to be thrown onto the paper in the pattern that reproduces the image specified in the print job.

[0006] The substrate positioning system 14 can control the relative position of the fluid ejection system and the substrate on which the fluid ejection system is to discharge fluid. For example, the ground setting system 14

PZ / 3075 / AG may include a paper feed that advances the paper through the printing zone 24 of the fluid ejection system. The substrate setting system may additionally or alternatively comprise a lateral printhead positioning mechanism, or other suitable device, for ejecting fluid to various parts of the printing zone. The relative position of the substrate and the substrate ejection system can be controlled so that fluid can only be ejected onto the desired portion of the substrate. In some embodiments, the substrate positioning system 14 can be selectively configurable to use two or more types and / or sizes of substrates.

[0007] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a reference fluid supply system in the form of a print fluid supply system 16 '. The printing fluid supply system includes a scanning printhead 30, which may include one or more nozzles adapted to receive the printing fluid from the fluid reservoir and eject the printing fluid onto the printing substrate. The nozzle may be connected to a fluid ejector, such as a semiconductor resistor, which is operatively connected to a control system. The control system can selectively cause heating by the print fluid ejector that is supplied to the fluid ejector. In embodiments that use the resistor as a fluid ejector, the resistor can be turned on by directing the current through the resistor in one or more pulses. The heated print fluid can at least partially evaporate and form a print fluid bubble. Expansion of the print fluid bubble can cause some of the print fluid to be ejected from the corresponding nozzle onto the print substrate. The printhead may be adapted to be printed with one color ink, two or more different colors of ink, as well as a preconditioner, fixative and / or other printing fluid. The scope of this disclosure includes the use of other mechanisms for ejecting fluid onto a substrate, and a printhead 30 is shown as a non-limiting example. For example, the printhead may include a fluid ejector adapted to allow fluid to be ejected by a non-thermal mechanism, such as vibrations.

[0008] The printing fluid supply system 16 'includes an off-axis ink supply station 40. "Off-axis" ink supply may not be connected to the print head, so that the print head can scan the print zone while the ink supply remains substantially stationary. This arrangement can reduce the overall weight of the printhead system compared to a printhead system that has coaxial ink delivery. The relatively light printhead arrangement may require relatively less energy to move, moving faster, quieter, and / or with less vibration than the printhead with integrated, coaxial ink supply. Off-axis ink supply can be located in an easily accessible location, allowing you to refill ink, and can be sized to provide the desired volume of ink. As described in detail below, the ink supply station may be adapted for front loading, so that the printing fluid reservoir may be inserted transversely to the printing system. A stationary position and relatively easy access to off-axis ink supply may allow storage and delivery of relatively large volumes of ink.

[0009] Off-axis ink supply may include reservoirs for storing and feeding one or more ink colors as well as other printing fluids. For example, ink supply station 40 includes six ink tank cavities adapted to support six responders

PZ / 3075 / AG EP 2 258 554 B1 ink tanks. In the illustrated embodiment, the ink supply station 40 includes a yellow cavity 42, a dark magenta cavity 44, a light magenta cavity 46, a dark cyan cavity 48, a light cyan cavity 50 and a black cavity 52 that are adapted to hold the yellow ink reservoir 54, the reservoir respectively with dark magenta 56 ink, light magenta 58 ink tank, dark cyan 60 ink tank, light cyan 62 ink tank and black 64 ink tank. Other printing systems may be designed for use with more or less colors, including colors other than those described above. It should be understood that the "ink" used herein may be used in a general sense with respect to other printing fluids, such as preconditioners, fixatives, etc., which may also be in the ink reservoir and be provided by the fluid supply system. Two or more ink tanks containing a print fluid of the same color and / or type may be used in the same printing system. In some embodiments, one or more ink tank recesses may have different dimensions than the other ink tank recess. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the black cavity 52 is larger than the other ink reservoir cavities, and therefore can support a relatively larger ink reservoir. As described in more detail below, a particular ink reservoir recess may support different size ink reservoirs.

[0010] The ink supply system 16 'includes an ink transport system 70 adapted to move the ink from the ink supply station to the printhead. In some embodiments, the ink transport system may be a two-way transport system capable of moving ink from the ink supply station to the printhead, and vice versa. An ink transport system may contain one or more transport routes for each ink color. In the illustrated embodiment, the ink transport system 70 includes a tube 72 that connects the ink reservoir from the ink supply station to the print head. In the illustrated embodiment, there are six such tubes that seamlessly connect the ink tanks to the print head. The tube may be made to have the appropriate length and flexibility to allow the printhead to scan the print zone. In addition, the tube may be at least partially chemically inert to the ink transported through the tube.

[0011] The ink transport system may include one or more mechanisms adapted to carry the ink transport through the ink transport path. Such a mechanism may work by establishing a pressure difference that promotes ink movement. In the illustrated embodiment, the ink transport system 70 includes a pump 74 adapted to carry ink transport through each of the tubes 72. Such a pump can be configured as a two-way pump that is adapted to move the ink in different directions through the corresponding ink transport path.

[0012] The ink transport path may contain two or more parts. For example, each of the tubes 72 includes a static portion 76 connecting the ink reservoir to the pump and a dynamic portion 78 connecting the pump to the printhead. The transport path may also include a pumping part that effectively connects the static part to the dynamic part and comes into contact with the pump to allow ink to be transported. Individual parts of the ink transport path can be physically distinct segments that are seamlessly connected through one or more internal connections. In some embodiments, single

PZ / 3075 / AG connect the length of the tube the ink tank to the print head can be functionally separated into two or more parts, including static and dynamic. In the illustrated embodiment, the dynamic portion 78 is adapted to connect a stationary ink supply station to a scanning printhead that moves during printing, and therefore the dynamic portion is adapted to move and fold in accordance with the printhead. The static portion that connects the stationary ink supply station to the stationary pump can remain substantially stationary. [0013] The ink reservoir of the ink supply station 40 may include venting adapted to allow the introduction and removal of ink from the reservoir. For example, deaeration can seamlessly connect the inside of the ink tank to the atmosphere to reduce adverse pressure gradients that may hinder ink transport. Such venting may be adapted to limit the amount of ink leaving the ink reservoir by venting, thereby preventing unnecessary waste of ink. Reference venting in the form of a fluid connection is described in detail below.

[0014] The printing fluid supply system 16 'may include a vent chamber 90 adapted to limit ink evaporation and / or other ink losses. Each ink reservoir of the ink supply station 40 may be seamlessly connected to the vent chamber 90 through a tube 92 connecting the vent of this ink tank to the vent chamber. In other words, venting of the ink reservoir may be connected to a vent chamber to allow the transport of ink between the ink reservoir and the printhead. The vent chamber may reduce adverse pressure gradients, reducing ink evaporation to the atmosphere. In some embodiments, the vent chamber 90 may include a labyrinth that reduces ink loss. The vent chamber 90 may be attached in a substantially stationary position.

[0015] As mentioned above, Fig. 2 schematically shows a 16 ° printing fluid supply system. The exact arrangement of the components of the printing fluid supply system can be physically set according to the desired technological design. Similarly, individual components may differ from the illustrated embodiment, while remaining within the scope of this disclosure. Size, shape, access and aesthetics are among the factors that may be considered when designing a fluid ejection system that utilizes a print fluid supply system in accordance with the present disclosure. Although the description and figures relate to off-axis ink delivery, it should be understood that many principles described herein apply to coaxial ink delivery. Off-axis ink supply is shown as a non-limiting example, and coaxial ink delivery is also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0016] Fig. 2 shows in a continuous line the dark cyan ink tank 60 not installed. As indicated by the dashed line at 61, the dark cyan ink tank can be installed in the ink supply station 40. Similarly, other ink tanks of the ink supply station 40 can be selectively installed and uninstalled. In this way, the depleted ink supply can be replenished by installing a full ink reservoir, thereby extending the life of the fluid ejection system. The ink supply station can be configured so that individual ink tanks can be replaced independently of each other. For example, if only one ink tank runs out, this one

The ink tank may be replaced while the other ink tank will remain in place. It should be understood that, while Fig. 2 shows the ink reservoir 60 installed in the ink supply station 40 in a substantially vertical direction, this is not necessarily required. Ink supply station 40 may be oriented to receive ink tanks that are installed horizontally. In addition, a coupled ink supply can be disposed in the ink tank bay that supports two or more print fluids and / or colors in a single tank system.

[0017] The ink supply system may include ink level control configured to track the amount of ink available for delivery. Ink level control can be configured to individually monitor individual ink tanks, groups of ink tanks supplying the same color of ink, and / or a combined ink supply system. The ink level control can work with the notification system to inform the user about the status of the ink level, enabling the user to assess the ink levels and prepare refill. In addition, as described in more detail below, the ink container may include memory and the corresponding electrical interface, and information regarding the level of ink in the ink container may be stored in such memory and transmitted via the electrical interface.

[0018] Figures 3 and 4 show a more detailed view of the reference ink tank 100 recess adapted to receive ink tank 102 selectively. Fig. 3 shows the ink tank recess 100 in the open position and Fig. 4 shows the ink tank recess in the position closed, in which the ink tank bay holds the ink tank 102. The ink tank bay may include a socket 104 adapted to interface with a portion of the ink tank. In other words, the seat 104 and the ink reservoir portion may be complementarily configured so that the ink reservoir may be docked in the slot. The socket may have a size and shape that matches the size and shape of the portion of the ink reservoir, such as the ink reservoir cover and / or the support portion of the ink reservoir body. The ink tank recess may include a latch member 106 adapted to hold the ink tank in place. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch member 106 pivots on a hinge to contact the edge portion 108 of the ink reservoir 102. The edge portion 108 is an example of a latching surface that may come into contact with the latch member to hold the ink reservoir in a reservoir recess ink. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch member 106 includes an open space 110 through which the rear portion 112 of the ink reservoir 102 may pass. The latch member or the combination of two or more latch members adapted to hold the ink reservoir in place may be adapted to handle different sizes of ink reservoirs. In some embodiments, the latch member may come into contact with one or more parts of the ink reservoir, such as the latch surface of the edge portion 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch member 106 includes a piston 114 adapted to come into contact with the edge portion 108 on each side of the ink reservoir when the rear portion 112 passes through the open space 110. The piston 114 includes a permanent element adapted to exert surface pressure on the ink reservoir 102 when the latch member 106 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, two or more latch members may be separate, movable members that support large rear portions, or a single latch member may be adapted to operate

PZ / 3075 / AG large rear parts. In addition, alternative or additional latching mechanisms may be used in some embodiments to hold the ink reservoir in place.

[0019] Figure 5-7 shows an ink reservoir 120 that includes an ink reservoir lid 122 and an ink reservoir body 124 that are complementarily adapted to jointly determine the limited volume in which ink may be stored. The cover and body of the ink reservoir may be collectively referred to as the reservoir, ink reservoir, or print fluid reservoir. In some embodiments, such a reservoir may be formed of a single structural element or two or more elements that are connected differently than illustrated in the illustrated embodiment. Cover 122 may include an inner surface that faces the inside of the ink tank when the body of the tank is attached to the cover. The cover may include one or more parts adapted to come into contact with the tank body or attach the cover to the tank body in other ways. In some embodiments, the reservoir lid and body may be detachably connected, while in some embodiments the reservoir lid and reservoir may be used, which are connected in a substantially unchanging arrangement. A gasket or other suitable seal may be provided in the space between the lid 122 and the reservoir body 124 to support the ability of the lid and reservoir body to store the volume of ink or other printing fluid.

[0020] Ink reservoir 120 may be a free ink reservoir adapted to store a volume of free ink. The volume of free ink used herein refers to the volume of ink that is stored in the reservoir without the use of a sponge, foam, ink bag or similar intermediate holding apparatus and / or counterpressure device. The free ink reservoir can be substantially "open" within its boundaries, thus allowing a relatively large percentage of the closed volume to be filled with ink that can flow freely within the reservoir. As described in more detail herein, the ink reservoir design 120 allows free volume of ink to be taken from the reservoir and delivered to the printhead. In addition, as described below, a very large percentage of the volume of free ink can be withdrawn from the free ink reservoir, thereby reducing the amount of remaining ink.

[0021] Ink reservoir cover 122 includes an outer surface 126 that faces away from the contents of the ink reservoir. The outer surface 126 may be designed to be the "front" part of the ink reservoir when the ink reservoir is installed in the corresponding ink reservoir recess. Accordingly, the outer surface may be referred to as the front surface of the ink reservoir or associated with the front face of the ink reservoir. In some embodiments, a portion of the print fluid reservoir other than the cover similar to the ink reservoir cover 122 may be the face of the print fluid reservoir.

[0022] The ink reservoir cover 122 may be formed with an outer surface 126 that has a substantially flat profile. As described in more detail below, the outer surface may comprise one or more cavities adapted to provide mechanical alignment and / or keying. The outer surface may additionally or alternatively comprise holes that extend from the outside of the ink tank to the inside of the ink tank. Such holes can be used as flow connections to move print fluid and / or air from inside the ink tank to

PZ / 3075 / AG EP 2 258 554 B1 outside the ink reservoir and vice versa. The entry point for each recess, hole and / or other connection may be located on the same face. In some embodiments, the entry points for various connections of the print fluid reservoir may be on towers rising above another part of the face. Such an embodiment may not have a substantially flat profile, however, the entry points of various mechanical, flow and electrical connections may be located on a common frontal plane. In some embodiments, the entry point for each connection can be positioned within an acceptable distance on each side of the face. For example, in some embodiments, any forward or backward deviation of the connection entry point relative to the entry point of another connection may be less than approximately 5mm, while in most embodiments such deviations may be less than approximately 2mm or even 1 mm. An ink tank cover that has an outer surface with a substantially flat profile may be referred to as a substantially flat ink tank cover, however, such an ink tank cover may have a measurable thickness, irregular internal surface, and / or one or more surface irregularities on the external surface.

[0023] The ink reservoir cover 122 can be made as a unitary structural member 130 as opposed to joining two or more structural members. Such an element may be formed, extruded or otherwise formed from a material selected for strength, weight, workability, cost, ink compatibility and / or other considerations. For example, the lid may be injection molded from a suitable synthetic material. Made of a single structural element results in an ink tank cover in which the inner surface and the outer surface are opposite sides of the same piece of material.

[0024] An ink reservoir lid made of a unitary structural element may be combined with additional auxiliary elements. For example, a seal may be used to improve the seal of the fluid connection between the ink reservoir cover and the reservoir body. The flow connection formed in the unitary structural element may be combined with a seal adapted to selectively hold the ink in the ink reservoir. The seal may take the form of a septum, ball and septum system or other mechanism. The memory device may be attached to the ink reservoir cover 122 and the ink reservoir cover may be equipped with an electrical interface for transferring data to and from the memory device. Such auxiliary elements can be adapted to integrate with a uniform structural element, which determines the overall size and shape of the ink tank lid.

[0025] The ink reservoir 120 includes a reservoir body 124 that cooperates with the ink reservoir lid 122 to provide a structural restriction to store the volume of ink. As described in more detail below, various mechanical, electrical, and flow connections of ink reservoir 122 may be located on the reservoir cover. In other words, the functionality of the ink reservoir connections can generally be limited to the ink reservoir lid, providing design freedom relative to the reservoir body. For example, Fig. 8 shows ink tank cover 122 with three tank bodies 124a-124c of various sizes. As can be seen, ink reservoirs with different ink capacities can be formed by connecting different reservoir bodies to the same ink reservoir cover.

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Thus, the ink reservoir may have a selective size to provide the desired ink capacity. In addition, two or more ink tanks with different ink capacities can alternatively be installed in the same ink tank bay, thus providing increased flexibility in the printer configuration. Standardizing the ink tank lid design can also help reduce production costs. It should be understood that ink reservoir covers of different configurations are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0026] The portion of the ink reservoir body may have a standard size and shape, while the other portion has a size and shape that differs between two or more configurations. For example, Fig. 8 shows tank bodies 124a-124c that respectively include support parts 132a-132c that are similarly configured with respect to each other. Such support parts have a width that is substantially the same as the corresponding width of the ink tank lid. Tank bodies 124a-124c also respectively include rear portions 134a-134c that are configured differently with respect to each other. Such rear parts have a width that is less than the corresponding width of the ink tank lid. The support parts and the rear parts are joined by edge parts 136a-136c that include latching surfaces 138a-138c. The configuration of a reservoir body portion, such as a standard size and shape support part 132a-132c, improves compatibility between different ink reservoirs, similar to that provided by the standard ink reservoir lid 122. For example, different ink reservoirs that have similarly configured support parts, but they can have rear parts of different sizes, they can be fixed by the same latching element.

[0027] The reservoir body 124 may be adapted to serve as the gripping portion of the ink reservoir. The ink tank can be physically maintained and manipulated when the ink tank is installed and removed from the ink tank bay of the ink supply station. The ink reservoir can also be held in the gripping portion during the refilling process, during maintenance or in various other situations. The reservoir body 124 may in such cases be used to hold the ink reservoir. The tank body can be of a size and shape suitable for comfortable and safe gripping. In addition, the surface of the tank body can be adapted to increase gripping traction, for example due to uneven surfaces. The shape of the reservoir body may also allow insertion of the print fluid reservoir into the corresponding ink reservoir recess of the ink supply station. For example, the lack of symmetry about the horizontal axis helps determine the top and bottom, which can easily be appreciated by the user, facilitating the installation of the ink reservoir in the corresponding ink reservoir recess.

[0028] As mentioned above, the ink reservoir cover may include one or more connection functions corresponding to the complementary functions of the ink reservoir recess adapted to receive the ink reservoir. For example, as shown in Fig. 5, the ink reservoir cover 122 includes a connection packet 150 containing an alignment pocket 152, a keying pocket 154, an upper flow connection in the form of an air connection 156, a lower flow connection in the form of an ink connection 158 and an electrical interface 160. The connection package 150 is located inside the outer circuit 128 ink tank covers 122. In other words, the component functions of the connection package 150 are not positioned around the side edge of the ink tank lid or elsewhere on the tank body.

[0029] As described in more detail below, the connection packet 150 is an exemplary set of mechanical, flow and electrical connections adapted to allow and / or assist the supply of ink from the ink reservoir. Connection packet 150 is provided as a non-limiting example, and other settings may include additional and / or alternative functions. In addition, the positioning of the various elements may differ from the illustrated embodiment.

[0030] Fig. 5 shows a reference alignment pocket 152 adapted to position the ink reservoir in a desired location in a desired orientation. This setting allows the ink tank to fit into the ink tank bay. In particular, the alignment pocket may be used to position the ink reservoir in a suitable position, so that the various characteristics of the ink reservoir are aligned to contact the corresponding characteristics of the ink reservoir recess. For example, the keying pocket 154 may be aligned with the corresponding keying position of the ink tank recess. The air connection 156 and the ink connection 158 may be aligned with the corresponding air and ink connectors of the ink tank recess. The electrical interface 160 can be aligned with the corresponding electrical contact of the ink tank recess.

[0031] The alignment pocket 152 can be recessed into the face of the print fluid reservoir, providing a firm connection that is less prone to damage compared to the tower joint protruding over the face of the print fluid reservoir. In some embodiments, the alignment pocket may be recessed into the face 10 millimeters, 15 millimeters or more. The cross-sectional width of the leveling pocket can be selected to achieve the desired length-width ratio. In particular, it has been shown that the length / width ratio of approximately 1.5 limits rotation of the print fluid reservoir when connected to the corresponding leveling element. A ratio between 1.0 and 4.0 may be appropriate in some embodiments, with a ratio between 1, 2 and 2.0 being in most cases. The width of the alignment pocket can be selected to be large enough to support the alignment elements that are mechanically sufficiently durable to resist torsional forces that may have caused the print fluid tank to rotate and shift various connection characteristics.

[0032] Figures 9-11 and 14-16 are a series of cross-sections in which the ink reservoir 120 is placed in the ink reservoir recess 170. Figures 9-11 are top views showing the ink reservoir 120 moved from the not inserted position to the inserted position. Similarly, Figures 14-16 are side views showing an ink reservoir 120 moved from the not in position to the in position. Ink reservoir cover 122 includes an alignment pocket 152 recessed into the central portion of the ink reservoir cover. In the illustrated embodiment, the alignment pocket 152 includes a connection surface 172 and side walls 174 that are recessed into a generally flat outer surface or face. The alignment pocket may be sized to be deep enough to support the corresponding outwardly extending alignment element 176 of the ink reservoir recess 170. The side walls 174 may be perpendicular to the outer surface, or one or more outer walls may be tapered so that the surface the cross-section of the opening 178 of the alignment pocket 152 is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection surface 172.

[0033] The fit between the alignment element 176 and the alignment pocket 152 can be tight enough so that when the alignment pocket comes into contact with the alignment element, the ink tank cover 122 is effectively restricted to the desired direction of movement . In this way, alignment of the ink tank lid and the corresponding ink tank bay can be provided. Fitting may be provided by physical contact between the parts of the alignment pocket 152 and the alignment element 176. Such contact may exist along the entire surface of the alignment pocket and the alignment element as shown in the figures. In some embodiments, contact may exist along a smaller portion than the entire surface. In some embodiments, the alignment of the alignment element and the alignment pocket may be less tight, and the alignment pocket may only be of a size corresponding to the protruding alignment element without tight engagement of the alignment element.

[0034] Ink reservoir cover 122 may include a progressive alignment mechanism in which the alignment of the ink reservoir cover becomes more precise when the ink reservoir cover is located deeper in the ink reservoir recess. For example, the outer circumference 128 may be smaller in size than the corresponding side walls 180 of the ink reservoir cavity 170, and the ink reservoir cavity may be adapted to come into contact with the ink reservoir cover before the alignment pocket comes into tight contact with the alignment element. Thus, the outer circumference can provide rough alignment of the ink tank lid. The fit between the ink tank and the side walls 180 can be relatively loose, so that the initiation of coarse alignment can be facilitated. Although coarse alignment may be less accurate than the alignment provided by the alignment pocket 172, the ink reservoir may be in a wider range of settings when coarse alignment is initiated compared to the setting when strict alignment is initiated. The ink reservoir and the ink reservoir recess can be configured so that the alignment pocket 152 is directed to a position suitable for coming into contact with the alignment element 176 through the interaction of the rough alignment between the outer circumference 128, the support part 132 and the side walls 180. In some embodiments, the coarse alignment may not include the actual physical impact, but rather a visible indication for placing the ink reservoir in a misaligned position.

[0035] The alignment element 176 and the alignment pocket 152 can be complementarily configured so that the fit between the alignment element and the alignment pocket gradually tightens as the ink reservoir lid is inserted into the ink reservoir recess. For example, some embodiments of the alignment pocket may have a cross-sectional area of ​​the opening 178 that is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the joint surface 172. In addition, the alignment element 176 may have an end 182 whose cross-sectional area corresponds to the cross-sectional area of ​​the joint surface 172. Thus, the end 182 may to some extent loosely fit into the opening 178 but fit tightly when it is completely inserted towards the surface of the joint 172. As far as the more accurate the alignment of the alignment element and the alignment pocket, the connection between the alignment pocket and the alignment element may gradually tighten. In some embodiments, the end of the leveling element may contain a slight narrowing or rounding that allows the leveling contact to begin with the leveling pocket.

[0036] The gradual alignment system can be used to ensure that the functions of the ink reservoir lid 122 are properly aligned with the corresponding functions of the ink reservoir recess 170. In other words, the fit between the alignment pocket and the alignment element can be designed to achieve the desired level of tightening before the connection packet function (e.g. the ink connection, air connection, keying pocket, electrical connection, etc.) will come into contact with the corresponding function of the ink tank recess. Gradual alignment may also allow the alignment to be started because there is a greater tolerance for the position of the ink reservoir at the beginning of placement compared to when the ink reservoir is completely inserted into the ink reservoir recess. After starting the alignment, the ink reservoir can be effectively directed to the desired position with the desired orientation with increasing accuracy. Contact between the functions of the ink tank and the functions of the ink tank bay can be designed to start when the desired level of accuracy is reached. The gradual leveling system described above is provided as a non-limiting example. Other gradual leveling systems may be used. In addition, some embodiments may use non-leveling alignment systems.

[0037] Fig. 5 shows a reference key pocket 154 adapted to ensure that the ink reservoir is located in the corresponding ink reservoir recess. Each cavity of an ink supply station can be adapted to receive an ink reservoir storing a particular printing fluid (ink type, ink color, fixative, preconditioner, etc.). For example, each ink tank recess may include a keying station with a unique shape and / or orientation corresponding to the color of the ink for which the ink tank recess is adapted. Similarly, an ink reservoir storing this ink color may include a keying pocket that closely matches the corresponding keying position associated with that color. The keying station may match the keying pocket in an exclusive relationship, which means that the keying station associated with one ink color will not match the keying pocket associated with another ink color or other type of print fluid. In other words, each ink color can be keyed by a unique configured combination of keying station and keying pocket. In this way, the characteristics of the keying pocket of the print fluid reservoir may determine the print fluid stored in the reservoir.

[0038] The keying pocket may be used to provide physical confirmation that the fluid reservoir is inserted into the correct fluid reservoir recess. For example, the keying pocket may provide a tangible response when attempting to insert the ink reservoir into the ink reservoir recess. The keying pocket and / or keying station can be configured such that the tangible response can be significantly different depending on whether the ink reservoir is introduced into a cavity adapted to supply the ink color that is stored by the ink reservoir or another ink color. The keying pocket may be adapted to prevent the ink tanks from entering the ink tank cavities that do not have a keying station corresponding to the keying pocket of the ink tank cover. In some embodiments, such an ink reservoir may be introduced, however, contact between a mismatched keying station and a keying pocket may result in a sensation that is significantly different than the sensation when in contact

Matching keying elements are included. For example, there may be greater resistance when introducing an ink reservoir that includes a keying pocket that is not complementary to a keying station coming into contact with the keying pocket.

[0039] Figure 9-11 is a cross-sectional view of the keying pocket 154 receiving the keying station 190 when the ink reservoir 120 is introduced into the ink tank recess 170. The keying pocket 154 and the keying station 190 are configured complementarily based on the corresponding ink color. The keying pocket, such as keying pocket 154, may be adapted to fit only keying stations corresponding to the correct ink color. Other ink tanks may contain similar keying pockets adapted to fit different keying stations associated with different ink colors. In this way, each ink color that the printing system is adapted to be delivered can be associated with a unique combination of keying station and corresponding keying pocket. Although mainly described in terms of keying a particular color of ink, it should be understood that the keying mechanism can be used to key alternative or additional functions of print liquids. For example, a particular type of ink, such as photo-ink, can be uniquely keyed to ensure that the correct type of ink is installed in a specific cavity. In addition, other printing fluids, such as preconditioners and / or fixatives, may be keyed to ensure that a fluid reservoir storing such fluid is installed in a corresponding cavity that is adapted to supply such fluid.

[0040] The alignment element 176 may be adapted to come into contact with the alignment pocket 152 before the keying station 190 comes into contact with the keying pocket 154. Thus, the alignment element and the alignment pocket may cooperate to ensure that the keying pocket 154 is properly aligned to contact the key station 190. The alignment element may be longer than the keying station to ensure the alignment of the alignment element and alignment pocket before the keying station and keying pocket fit. In such embodiments, the alignment pocket may be deeper than the keying pocket. In some embodiments, the keying pocket and the alignment pocket can be adapted to properly contact the keying station and the alignment element at substantially the same time. In some embodiments, the functionality of the alignment pocket and the keying pocket can be introduced as a single function adapted to position the ink reservoir in a desired location and orientation and ensure that the ink reservoir is inserted into the correct ink reservoir recess.

[0041] Fig. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a reference keying station 190 that is adapted to be inserted into the complementarily configured keying pocket 154. In the illustrated embodiment, the keying station 190 has a "Y" configuration which includes first level 192, second level 194 and third level 196. The angle a between the first rung 192 and the second rung 194 is the same as the angle a between the first rung 192 and the third rung 196. The angle Θ between the second rung 194 and the third rung 196 is smaller than the angle a. The keying station can be described as a symmetrical axis symmetry S, which

PZ / 3075 / AG runs through the first rung 192 and cuts in half the angle Θ. As illustrated, the keying station 190 is not symmetrical with respect to any other axis which is coplanar with the axis of symmetry S. [0042] The keying pocket 154 has a shape matching the keying station 190, such that each rung effectively slides into the corresponding keying pocket hole. Unique keying connections can be based on the same general connection shape of a particular keying station and keying pocket, but by rotating the orientation of the connection. For example, another connection may be configured by rotating the symmetry angle of the keying station that has the same overall shape as the keying station 190. The corresponding keying pocket could be similarly rotated to obtain a unique combination of connections. For example, the symmetry angle can be rotated 45 ° apart to get 8 unique keying station configurations. Fig. 13 shows five such configurations that can be used to key five ink colors other than the color of the keyed ink by keying station 190. The keying station and keying pocket configurations described above are given as a non-limiting example. Other key connections may be used.

[0043] The keying connection may additionally and / or alternatively differ from the other keying connection by shifting the relative position of the keying connection of the ink reservoir and the associated ink reservoir recess. For example, using the example described above in which the keying station is rotated 45 ° apart to obtain 8 different possible keying station configurations; keying station location can be selected from 3 different positions to obtain a total of 24 (8x3) unique keying station configurations. Keying pockets with corresponding positions and orientations can be adapted to suit such keying stations. If desired, additional keying configurations can be achieved by reducing the size of the rotation intervals, adding keying station positions, adding new keying station shapes, etc. For example, the keying station can be rotated at 22.5 ° intervals to obtain 16 different configurations. Similarly, different shapes of keying stations and keying pockets may be used, examples of which include the "T", "L" and "V" shapes.

[0044] As described above, the keying function and / or the alignment function of the ink reservoir can be configured as a recess that enters the ink reservoir as opposed to a protuberance that rises above the ink reservoir. Such a depression provides a strong connection that is resistant to damage. In addition, configuring the ink reservoir with a recess does not disturb the overall flat profile of the outer surface of the ink reservoir cover.

[0045] Fig. 5 illustrates a reference upper ink connection 156 and a reference lower fluid connection 158 that are adapted to transfer ink, air, an ink-air mixture to and / or from the ink reservoir 120. The upper flow connection 156 used herein may specify the air connection and the lower flow connection 158 may define the ink connection. However, it should be understood that both combinations may, in some embodiments and / or operating modes, transfer ink, air, or a mixture thereof. In one reference mode of operation, the lower flow connection 158 may supply the printing fluid while the upper flow connection 156 controls the pressure inside the printing fluid reservoir.

[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, the flow connections are adapted as partitions designed as a ball seal. The flow connections are adapted to seal the contents of the ink reservoir so that the contents do not leak undesirably. Each connection is adapted to releasably receive a fluid connector, such as an empty needle, which can pierce a selective septum seal and transfer fluid to and from the ink reservoir. The septum may be adapted to prevent unwanted leakage when the fluid connector is inserted and after the fluid connector has been removed. For example, the septum may closely surround the inserted needle, so that ink or air can pass through the needle, but not between the needle and the septum.

[0047] Figure 14-16 shows a fluid connector 200 coming into contact with an air connection 156 and a fluid connector 202 coming into contact with an ink connection 158. The alignment element 176 can be adapted to come into contact with the alignment pocket 152 before the fluid connectors come into contact with contact with fluid connections. Thus, the alignment element and the alignment pocket can cooperate to ensure that the fluid connections are properly positioned to come into contact with the fluid connectors. In other words, the alignment connection prevents the fluid connectors from coming into contact in the undesirable position of the ink reservoir, which could damage the fluid connectors. The entry points for the flow connections can be coplanar with the front face of the ink tank, as opposed to the leveling stands, which rise above the outer surface of the ink tank, because the alignment pocket and the leveling element cooperate to properly align the flow connections. [0048] Figure 17-19 is a more detailed view of sealing member 260 of fluid connection 158. The sealing element 260 includes a portion of the ball seal 262 that is shaped to fit into the releasably inserted plug member to form a tight fluid connection that prevents unwanted fluid leakage when the fluid connection is not in contact with the corresponding fluid connector (Fig. 18) . The sealing portion 260 also includes a needle sealing portion 264 that prevents unwanted fluid leakage when the fluid connection is in contact with the corresponding fluid connector (Fig. 19). As shown in Fig. 18, the spring element 266 aligns the plug element 268 with the sealing portion of the ball element 262 of the sealing element. The sealing portion 262 is complementarily formed with respect to the plug element, so that when the plug element is pressed against the sealing part a tight flow connection is formed. As shown in Fig. 19, the fluid connector 202 may be inserted through the sealing member 260, and the fluid connector may move the plug member away from the sealing member against the restoring force exerted by the spring member. When the plug element is moved away from the sealing element, the tight fluid seal between the sealing element and the plug element is weakened. However, a tight flow seal may be formed between the fluid connector and the sealing element. As shown in Fig. 20, the fluid connector 202 may include an end portion 272 that has a fluid channel function 274 that allows fluid to flow into the fluid connector hollow portion 276 when the fluid connector contacts the plug member. What is set out above has been disclosed as a non-limiting example of a possible configuration for a fluid connection and a corresponding fluid connector. It should be understood that in order to selectively seal for a fluid in a fluid reservoir, other mechanisms that fit in

PZ / 3075 / AG within the scope of the present invention. As one example, a crevice septum can be used that seals itself when the needle is removed.

[0049] As shown in Figures 14-16, the ink connection 158 may be located close to the gravitational bottom of the ink reservoir, which is positioned in a mounted position in the corresponding ink reservoir recess. In this position, the fluid connector 202 is also near the gravitational bottom of the ink reservoir. In addition, the ink reservoir body 124 may have a shape with a bottom surface 204 that is inclined towards the fluid connector, so that the ink can flow freely towards the fluid connector. In other words, the bottom surface 204 is gravity-oriented toward the low portion of the ink reservoir. In the illustrated embodiment, the shape of the ink reservoir forms an ink well 206 adapted to allow the ink to flow to a place accessible to the fluid connector 202. Due to the relative position of the ink well and the rest of the reservoir, printing fluid can accumulate in the ink well as the ink level falls. Fluid connector 202 may continue to draw ink contained in well 206 as ink level drops during use.

[0050] The well, ink connection, and corresponding fluid connector may be positioned to limit the amount of ink that will remain in the ink reservoir, thereby minimizing losses. In some embodiments, the print fluid reservoir can provide the whole except for at most 2 cubic centimeters of print fluid, and in most embodiments, the entire supply is provided except at most 1 cubic centimeter. As mentioned above, the size of the reservoir body can be increased, providing increased ink capacity. However, such reservoirs can be configured with an ink well similar to ink well 206 or otherwise adapted so that the ink connection is located near the bottom of the reservoir, minimizing the amount of ink that will remain in the ink reservoir. In other words, according to this disclosure, the amount of ink that may remain inside the ink reservoir need not be proportional to the capacity of the ink reservoir.

[0051] As shown in Fig. 5, the outer surface 126 of the ink reservoir cover 122 may include a tab 210 on which the ink connection 158 is located. In the illustrated embodiment, the tab 210 is adapted to allow the central portion of the ink connection 158, through which the fluid connector could pass was near the low point of the ink tank body. Thus, a fluid connector may be introduced into the fluid connection to draw ink from a relatively low area of ​​the ink reservoir, thus allowing a larger percentage of ink to be drawn from the ink reservoir. Tab 210 also allows the ink connection to be near the bottom of the ink reservoir while remaining within the outer periphery 128 of the outer surface 126.

[0052] In Fig. 21, in some sense, the projection 210 is schematically shown, which is aligned with the basin 212 embedded in the bottom surface 204, forming well 206. Well 206 may be gravity lower than the rest of the reservoir, allowing printing fluids to collect in the well when the printing fluids are removed from the reservoir. In other words, part of the bottom surface well 207 may be deeper than the bottom surface. To enhance the accumulation of printing fluids in well 206, the bottom surface 204 may be gravity-oriented toward the well so that the printing fluids can effectively flow "down" into the well. The bottom surface 204 may be shaped

PZ / 3075 / AG without any false wells that could collect trapped print fluid without a fluid channel to well 206.

[0053] Tab 210 and basin 212 may be substantially aligned with each other as illustrated in the embodiment shown. When they are aligned in this way, the contour of the blunt edge of the front surface coincides with the contour of the descending edge of the underside. The tab 210 and the trough 212 may be horizontally aligned with the ink reservoir lid 122. The protrusion and the trough may additionally or alternatively be horizontally aligned with the mounting axis of the ink reservoir recess. In other words, the tab may be located on the ink tank lid, so that when the ink tank is introduced into the corresponding ink tank bay, the tab and fluid connection on the tab are located substantially equidistant from each wall of the ink tank bay. [0054] In Fig. 21, the fluid level 214 is schematically illustrated and how much ink can be drawn from the print fluid reservoir when the reservoir contains a well. In contrast, in Fig. 22 schematically shows the fluid level 216 of the tank, which does not have a well. As can be appreciated by comparing, well 206 reduces the amount of residual printing fluid. While the depth of fluid level 214 and fluid level 216 can be comparable, the volume of print fluid associated with fluid level 214 is significantly smaller than the volume of print fluid associated with fluid level 216. Well 206 may be adapted such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the fluid reservoir portion that limits the fluid level 214 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the fluid reservoir portion that limits the fluid level 216, thus reducing the relative volumes, assuming similar depths. In some embodiments, the well 206 may be adapted to reduce the top surface (and corresponding volume) of a fluid level that effectively corresponds to an empty tank by at least 75%, and usually 90% or more. In addition, as mentioned above, the capacity of the remaining portion of the ink reservoir can be increased without changing the size of the well and without increasing the amount of printing fluid that will remain in the reservoir. Well 206 may have various sizes and shapes. As a general rule, the volume of well 206 may be reduced to limit the amount of printing fluid that may remain inside the reservoir. Well 206 may be sized to support a flow connection with sufficient additional volume to allow free flow of printing fluid into the well.

[0055] The air connection 156 may be gravity-located above the ink connection 158 when the ink tank is set to the mounted position in the corresponding ink tank bay. The upper flow connection 156 can act as a vent port adapted to perform pressure equalization in the ink reservoir. When the ink is drawn from the ink connection 158, the air connection 156 may allow air to be introduced into the ink reservoir body to equalize the pressure therein. Similarly, if the ink is returned to the ink reservoir, the air connection may release air from the ink reservoir. As mentioned above, the upper flow connection can be seamlessly connected to a vent chamber 90 adapted to reduce ink evaporation and / or other ink losses. As described and illustrated herein, the ink reservoir (and the corresponding ink reservoir recess or other ink reservoir retention mechanism) may be adapted for horizontal installation. The setting that allows horizontal installation also provides flexibility for the printing system design. In particular, horizontal installation allows the printing system to be

PZ / 3075 / AG EP 2 258 554 B1 is designed to insert an ink tank from the front, back or side, as opposed to being restricted from above.

[0056] As shown in Fig. 2, the ink connection may be an active connection that is fluidly connected to a pump 74 that is adapted to control the supply of ink to and from the ink reservoir. The air connection may be a passive connection that is not directly controlled by the pump but rather allows the pressure balance to be achieved naturally. It should be understood that the illustrated embodiment is provided as a non-limiting example, and that other configurations are within the scope of this disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the air connection may be an active connection that is actively controlled to create the desired pressure inside the ink reservoir.

[0057] Fig. 5 shows an electrical connection 160 that is adapted to provide communication and / or a power path for one or more ink reservoir electrical devices 120. The electrical connection 160 may include one or more electrical contacts 162 that are adapted to connect electrical with the corresponding electrical contacts of the ink tank bay. When the ink tank is installed in the ink tank bay, electricity can flow through the electrical connection. In this way, information and / or current can be transported through the connection. For example, the ink reservoir may include a memory device 164, and the electrical connection may be used to write data to the electrical device and / or read data from the electrical device. For example, the memory may be configured to store electronic keying information that can be used to confirm that the ink reservoir is inserted into the ink reservoir recess adapted to supply the correct print fluid. If an error is detected, electric keying can be used to turn off printing to prevent contamination of the ink supply system. The memory may also contain an expiration date and / or information regarding the relative amount of ink remaining in the associated ink reservoir. In some embodiments, the electrical connection may include additional or alternative parts, such as the use of a specific integrated circuit.

[0058] The alignment pocket 152 may be located approximately in the center of the outer surface 126, and other connections of the connection packet 150 may be arranged around the alignment pocket. In this way, an air connection 156, an ink connection 158, an electrical connection 160 and a keying pocket 154 can be positioned between the alignment pocket and the outer circumference 128. The term "center" as used herein refers to a position relatively distant to the outer circumference of the outer surface of the ink reservoir. The center of the outer surface of the ink tank may vary depending on the size and shape of the ink tank.

[0059] Placing the alignment pocket near the center of the outer surface allows each other connection to be placed relatively close to the alignment pocket. Placing the alignment pocket 152 near other connections may allow these connections to be aligned with the corresponding functions of the ink tank recess. For example, placing joints near the alignment pocket may reduce the effect of any tolerance that exists in the alignment joint. Thus, if the alignment connection allows some alignment deviations, other connections may remain in an acceptable position until they come into contact with the corresponding parts

Ink tank recess. In other words, the effect of any possible movement of the alignment connection can be enhanced relative to the relative distance from the alignment pocket. Thus, such effects can be minimized by placing various connection functions near the alignment pocket.

[0060] As illustrated in Fig. 5, the flow connections of the ink reservoir may be located along the vertical axis V of the front surface of the print fluid reservoir. The alignment pocket 152 may also be located along the vertical axis V, such that the vertical axis V intersects the upper flow connection 156, the lower flow connection 158 and the alignment pocket 152. Similarly, the electrical connection 160 and / or the keying pocket 154 may be located along the horizontal axis H of the front surface of the print fluid reservoir. The alignment pocket 152 can also be positioned along the horizontal axis H, such that the horizontal axis H intersects the electrical connection, the keying pocket and the alignment pocket. In other words, the alignment packet can be placed in a "cross" configuration with the alignment pocket located in the center of the cross (intersection of the vertical axis V and the horizontal axis H). In some embodiments, the horizontal axis H may intersect half of the vertical axis V between the upper flow connection 156 and the lower flow connection 158, and / or the vertical axis V may intersect half of the horizontal axis H between the electrical connection 160 and the keying pocket 154. In addition, as shown in Fig. 5, the vertical axis V may be the axis of symmetry, the basic shape of the fluid reservoir being the same on the left and right of the axis. When used in relation to an axis and a connection function, the term "intersect" means that at least part of the connection function is crossed by the axis. Thus, a typical axis can intersect two or more functions, but the exact centers of these functions are not aligned with the axis.

[0061] Fig. 23 shows a reference ink reservoir 220 that includes latch seats 222 adapted to provide a latching surface for side latch members of an ink reservoir recess. Figure 24-26 shows an ink container 220 in contact with an ink container recess 224. In the illustrated embodiment, the ink reservoir recess 224 includes a side latch member 226 that is adapted to releasably retain the ink reservoir in an installed position in the ink reservoir recess. The side latch member may be resiliently movable between at least a closed position and an open position. For example, the side latch member may be in a closed position in which the side latch member is in contact with the ink reservoir when the ink reservoir is located in the ink reservoir recess. When the ink reservoir is introduced into the ink reservoir recess, the ink reservoir bends the side latch member to the 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 reservoir is inserted into the ink reservoir recess. The side latch member 226 includes a latch 228 that contacts the latch seat 222, holding the ink reservoir 220 in the installed position in the ink reservoir recess. The ink tank can be removed by moving the side latch member to the open position.

[0062] A pair of latch seats disposed on opposite walls of the ink reservoir may be located half-plane to the alignment pocket. For example, the latch seats 222 may be located on the same plane as the alignment pocket 230. In the illustrated

In an embodiment, the latching surfaces and the alignment pocket are cut by a common plane extending horizontally. Keying pocket 232 and electrical connection 234 may also be located on the same plane. It should be understood that other latching mechanisms may be adapted to exert latching pressure along a plane passing through the alignment pocket. In some embodiments, the latch seat may be located on another plane that intersects the alignment pocket, such as a vertical plane that intersects the alignment pocket and one or more flow connections.

[0063] Figure 27-29 shows another embodiment in which a different latching mechanism is used. As shown, the ink reservoir recess 240 includes an alignment element 242, which in turn includes an internal latch member 244. The inner latch member 244 is adapted to selectively contact the alignment pocket 246 when the ink reservoir 248 is inserted into the ink reservoir recess. The inner latch member may be resiliently movable between at least a closed position and an open position. For example, the inner latch member may be positioned in a closed position in which the inner latch member is in contact with the alignment pocket 246 when the ink reservoir is introduced into the ink reservoir recess. When the ink reservoir is introduced into the ink reservoir recess, the ink reservoir bends the inner latch member to the 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 reservoir is inserted into ink tank recess. The inner latch member 244 includes a latch 250 that contacts the corresponding latch tab 252 of the alignment pocket 246, holding the ink reservoir 248 in the installed position in the ink reservoir recess. The ink tank can be removed by moving the side latch member to the open position.

[0064] The above-described side latch and inner latch mechanisms are provided as non-limiting examples of possible latch configurations. The side latch mechanism and the inner latch mechanism can be used together or independently of each other. Similarly, the side latch mechanism and / or the inner latch mechanism may be used in addition or alternatively to other latching mechanisms, such as the latching mechanism described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Other suitable latching mechanisms may be used.

[0065] As described above with reference to the illustrated embodiments, the ink reservoir comprises a connection packet with one or more flow, mechanical and electrical connections. The ink reservoir has a front surface that is adapted to enter horizontally into the ink reservoir recess of an ink supply station. The front surface of the ink tank is adapted as a flat outer surface. Each of the respective connections of the connection package is arranged on a substantially flat face of the ink reservoir. The front surface can be described as having an outer circumference, and corresponding connections of the connection packet can be placed inside the outer circumference. The illustrated embodiments show a non-limiting example of configuration for the connection packet setting. It should be understood that other settings are within the scope of this disclosure as claimed.

[0066] Although the present disclosure has been made with reference to the preceding operating principles and embodiments, it will be clear to one skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from scope specified in the attached patent claims. Where the singular is used in disclosure or claims. "A" - untranslatable), "first" or "other" element, or their equivalent, should be interpreted as including one or more elements, which does not require or exclude two or more such elements.

VP / 3075 / AG

EP 2 258 554 B1