Ink delivery system and method for controlling fluid pressure therein
US6428156B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 2, 1999 |
| Grant date | Aug 6, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 2, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2/19
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An actively-controlled recirculating ink delivery system is provided that incorporates active control of pressures downstream of the printhead. This is achieved through the use of a device (such as a pump, return valve, combination thereof or similar devices) that provides active control of downstream ink pressures. A pressurized ink supply, pressure sensors, an air and heat exchanger are also provided, thereby improving start up, normal operation, purging and shut down procedures. Because the pressurized ink supply is not restricted to sit at a particular vertical distance below the printhead, backpressure may be changed quickly and easily through electronic control, and system priming is considerably quicker than with conventional air-pressurized systems.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.