Image forming apparatus including recording head for ejecting liquid droplets
US8657421B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 15, 2011 |
| Grant date | Feb 25, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 15, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2/17556
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An image forming apparatus includes a recording head, a liquid tank, a head tank, a liquid supply passage, a liquid supply passage, a liquid intake port, a valve member, and a lock unit. The lock unit is disposed in the head tank to lock and unlock the valve member in response to a change in pressure within the head tank. In a locked state, the valve member closes the liquid intake port in immovable state to constantly stop flow of the liquid into the head tank. In an unlocked state, the valve member is movable to open and close the liquid intake port in response to a change in pressure within the head tank to regulate the flow of the liquid into the head tank.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.