Method of refilling ink-jet printer cartridges
US5515663A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 6, 1994 |
| Grant date | May 14, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 6, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2/17506
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A new method of refilling ink into an empty ink-jet printer cartridge is intended to minimize leakage and waste during the refilling process. A fill hole of the printer cartridge is opened and a predetermined quantity of ink is introduced therethrough with, for example, a first syringe. Air is then introduced into inflatable bladders provided in the printer cartridge with a second tool, preferably a second syringe. The amount of air is carefully measured to correspond with the predetermined ink quantity so that no overflow occurs. The fill hole remains open to atmosphere during the air introduction step. While the syringe is still in place, the fill opening is then closed with a new plug and thereafter the second syringe removed from the equalize opening. This exerts a slight negative pressure which acts to provide a suction force and urge any ink in open ports inwardly into the housing, thus minimizing overall leakage and waste during the refill process.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.