JP2678241C - - Google Patents

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention Detailed Description of the Invention relates to a system for supplying ink to a row of orifices in the ink jet head, in particular, it relates to novel ink supply system and improved for ink jet head. Background Art U.S. Patent Application Serial No. Hine et al., Filed on April 28, 1987, and pending.
In No. 43,369, the hot melt ink supplied to the ink jet head was continuously heated by thermal convection to maintain the pigment in suspension and to transfer the ink from the area of the ink jet orifice to the degasser. Circulated periodically. Although such thermal cycling is effective, it consumes energy and can increase the temperature of the ink beyond that required for operation of the ink ejection system. In many ink ejection systems, the proper operation of the ink jet depends on the hydrostatic pressure of the ink supplied to the ink ejection orifice. For example, in some systems, such as described in U.S. Pat.No. 4,475,116 in the name of Sicking et al., Ink is supplied periodically from a remote reservoir to a reservoir on the ink jet head, And, unless a complex pressure control structure is provided, such as the bladder-like system described in that patent, between the highest and lowest ink level conditions in the reservoir on the ink jet head. Changes in the level of ink can interfere with the operation of the ink ejection system. For example, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,419,677 in the name of Kasugayama et al., If the hydrostatic pressure at the orifice of the ink jet head is insufficient, the meniscus of the ink (unevenness of the liquid surface in the capillary) will be reduced to the orifice. You must be pressured to be able to retract and overcome this condition. As described in that patent, air pressure is applied to the ink in the reservoir via a vent which maintains the reservoir at normal atmospheric pressure, thereby displacing the ink in the orifice. The ink is forcibly biased to expel air from the ink ejecting head and return the ink meniscus to an appropriate position in the orifice. Similarly, applying increased pressure to the liquid in the reservoir through the orifice vent allows for the discharge of bubbles that may have accumulated in the ink jet head. On the other hand, as described in that patent, excessive hydrostatic pressure in an ink ejection orifice can cause ink to leak from that orifice, creating a similar undesirable condition. Further, when one or more air bubbles occur in the ink jet head that interfere with the operation of the system, or when scum accumulates, U.S. Patent Nos. 4,419,677 to Kasugayama et al. Conventional ink ejection systems, such as described in U.S. Pat.No. 4,658,274, apply pressure to the ink in a reservoir to expel ink from the ink ejection head through an orifice, thereby capturing the ink. The air is discharged together with the ink. Cleaning with such spills necessarily requires a relatively large volume of ink capture and cleaning equipment to collect and remove a significant amount of ink discharged through the orifice during the cleaning process. And DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved ink supply system that overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art. It is another object of the present invention to provide a convenient and effective structure for continuously circulating ink in an ink jet head system without additional heating or wasting energy. It is another object of the present invention to provide a new and improved ink supply system for an ink jet head wherein the hydrostatic pressure of the ink at the ink jet orifice is maintained within a relatively narrow range. Another object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved ejection system for an ink ejection head that eliminates the need to eject ink through an ink ejection orifice to remove air bubbles or scum. is there. These and other objects of the present invention have first and second reservoirs in communication with the ink ejection orifices, and have a structure for transferring ink from one reservoir to the other reservoir, As a result, this is achieved by providing an ink supply system for an ink jet head, in which ink circulation at a relatively constant speed is performed. In one embodiment, ink is pumped by inertia via a valve from the first reservoir to a second reservoir as a result of the reciprocating motion of the ink jet head, and in another embodiment, ink is pumped to another reservoir. One reservoir is provided with pneumatics or vacuum for transfer to or from a reservoir. The ink jet head may include a degassing device, through which ink is continuously circulated such that ink flows from one reservoir to the other. An orifice in the head is coated and pressure is applied to one reservoir to achieve air expulsion without expelling ink from the head, whereby pressure is applied to one reservoir,
Ink and any trapped air will flow from the head to the other reservoir.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Other objects and advantages of the present invention will be understood from the following description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
It becomes clear by In the drawings: FIG. 1 is a schematic side sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of an ink supply system according to the present invention.
Fig. 3 is taken along line 1-1 of Fig. 2 and viewed in the direction of the arrows;
FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view of a reservoir assembly of the ink supply system of FIG. 1;
And a section taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1 and viewed in the direction of the arrow.
FIG. 3 is an enlarged cutaway view showing one alternative embodiment of the valve structure according to the present invention.
FIG. 4 is an enlarged cutaway view showing another alternative valve structure in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 5 is a representative pressure valve for use in the embodiment shown in FIG.
1 is a schematic diagram showing a force and vacuum generator. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the ink jet head 10 shown schematically in FIG. 1 has a series of orifices 11 which
Only one of the orifices is visible in the cross-sectional view of FIG.
Through which the drops of ink typically respond in response to actuation of the transducer 12.
Is discharged in the manner described above. Ink is supplied to each orifice 11 via a passage 13,
The passage 13 is connected to a deaeration structure 16 by conduction paths 14 and 15, and the deaeration structure 16
U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 273,383 filed on November 18, 1988 in the name of Hine et al.
It is of the type listed. As best seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2, four pairs of reservoirs 20-21, 22-23.
, 24-25, and 26-27, so that four different types of inks,
For example, black and three primary color inks may have different colors in the ink jet head.
It is possible to feed a number of orifices 11. One reservoir of each pair
20, 22, 24, and 26 are relatively low level (low level) reservoirs for each pair.
The other of the reservoirs 21, 23, 25, and 27 has a relatively high level (high liquid level) of storage.
It is a vessel. As described below, ink is applied at a relatively low speed and at a high level in each pair.
Flows continuously from the reservoir of the fuel to the reservoir of the lower level. Such a continuous flow
Is effective for preventing the precipitation of the pigment in the colored ink, and
It is also effective for transferring ink continuously through the structure. At the lower end of the high level reservoirs 21, 23, 25 and 27 in each pair, a check valve
28, and the low level reservoirs 20, 22, 24, and 26 in each pair
This passage 29 extends horizontally from the main body of the reservoir and the check valve 28 of the other reservoir.
It extends directly below. During operation of the ink ejection system, the ink ejection head 10
Is perpendicular to the plane of FIG. 1 and is perpendicular to the plane of FIG. 2, as indicated by arrow 30.
It reciprocates in a parallel direction, and as a result, selectively ejects from the orifice 11.
The ink is printed on the adjacent recording member (not shown) in a desired pattern at a normal capacity.
Form. In the embodiment shown, the check valve 28 is schematically shown in the form of a tongue member 31.
As shown, the tongue member 31 is responsive to pressure to move between the reservoir and its adjacent passage 29.
Move from the solid closed position covering the opening 32 to the open position shown in dotted lines in the drawing.
Can be moved so that the ink is stored in the low level reservoirs 20, 22, 24,
And 26 via corresponding passages 29 to the high-level reservoirs 21, 23, 25 and 27 above said valve 28. As shown in FIG. 1, the reservoir in each pair is
Are separated in the direction of movement. Therefore, the ink jet head reciprocates
In doing so, the acceleration of the reservoir to the left as seen in FIG.
And 24 as well as the ink in the corresponding passageway 29, this ink
And 25 forcibly open the non-return valve so that ink will
And 24 to allow passage to reservoirs 21 and 25 respectively. at the same time,
The check valves at the bottom of the reservoirs 23 and 27 remain closed. Because correspondence
The inertia of the reservoir and the ink in passage 29 increases the pressure below their check valves.
This is because it does not increase, but rather lowers. Deceleration during movement of the reservoir to the left and right, as seen in FIG.
During acceleration, the check valves are closed and the bottoms of reservoirs 23 and 27 are closed.
The check valve 28 in the section provides a reservoir for ink in the reservoirs 22 and 26 and the corresponding passage 29.
Opened by inertia, whereby ink is stored from the reservoirs 22 and 26
To each of the vessels 23 and 27. During this exercise, reservoir 21 and
The check valve 28 at the bottom of the valve 25 remains closed. Because the corresponding reservoir
And the inertia of the ink in passage 29 increases the pressure below those check valves.
Rather, it lowers it. This pumping action (pump action)
A stable height between the ink levels in multiple reservoirs
It continues during each reciprocating cycle until a difference occurs. As described above,
The reciprocating motion of the ink jet head corresponds to the level of reservoirs 21, 23, 25 and 27.
From the levels of reservoirs 20, 22, 24, and 26, which are distinctly different and relatively constant
Tends to hold. The hydrostatic pressure at the ink ejection orifice 11 is:
As described below, the flatness of the ink in the two reservoirs to which the orifices are connected.
Variation in their ink levels, because of the
No change in hydrostatic pressure at the wheel. To prevent overfilling, the upper end of each of the reservoirs has a floating ball
A type of valve 33 is provided. Instead of this, during operation of the system,
The reservoir, the ink supply system, and the passages 13 and so that the acceleration acting on the ink in the reservoir is not so great as to overflow the reservoir.
It is also possible to configure other passages connecting the reservoirs 15 and 15 with each pair of reservoirs. Sa
In yet another alternative construction, if the higher level reservoir is
Pneumatic pressure is applied to one of the reservoirs to purge or refill impurities.
If it is not necessary to award, the higher level reservoir of each pair
By providing an overflow passage between the lower level reservoir,
Excessive charging of the higher level reservoir can be prevented. Low-level reservoirs 20, 22, 24, supplying ink to higher-level reservoirs
And 26, a low ink detecting device 37 is provided at the lower end. This low in
For example, even if the current detection device consists of a thermistor that is supplied with current periodically,
Its resistance to current, well and temperature dependent, is detected. The Sami
The star 37 is operated at a constant temperature, so that the level of ink in the reservoir is reduced.
If it drops below the thermistor 37, it will be pulled out of the thermistor
The output is smaller than if the thermistor were immersed in the ink.
Become. As a result, a condition in which ink is below the level of the thermistor is detected,
The ink is then fed via the supply line 38 shown in FIG.
To the reservoirs 20, 22, 24, or 26. The supply line 38 is, for example, 19
U.S. Patent Application Serial No.043,369 filed on April 28, 1987 in the name of Hine et al.
In this patent application, the pump is:
Periodically supply ink from a distant reservoir to the reservoir of the head via the supply line
You. To remove any contaminants from the ink supplied through said line 38
In addition, a filter network 39 receives the ink via a corresponding supply line 38 in the reservoir 20.
, 22, 24, and 26, respectively. When ink is not being expelled from an orifice,
The pressure is created by the level of ink in the two reservoirs connected to that orifice.
The weighted average of the pressures between the orifice and each reservoir.
It reflects the flow resistance of the ink passage in the case. Connect ink through the deaerator
By passing continuously, this stream provides for continuous degassing of the colored ink, if used, and prevents settling of the pigment. 1
A flow rate of about 0.1 to 2 ml per hour, preferably about 0.3 to 1 ml
Is appropriate in most cases. To allow continuous circulation of ink through said degassing device, and at the same time
To supply ink to a corresponding orifice 11 in the ink jet head 10,
Each of the relevant high-level reservoirs 21, 23, 25 and 27 has an opening at its lower end
The deaeration unit is connected to the corresponding passage in the deaeration unit 16 via 40.
The passage in the slot 16 is directly below the corresponding reservoir, but is not shown in the drawing.
The passage then corresponds via another passage 41, shown in dashed lines in FIG.
The passage 15 reaches the passage 13, and the passage 13 receives the ink.
The ink is supplied to the corresponding orifice 11 in the ink jet head. Therefore, the ink
As it flows from the high level reservoir to the ink ejection orifice,
Become degassed. The ink in the passage 13 that has not been discharged from the orifice is returned to the deaerator 16.
Over the passage 13 in the ink jet head to allow for circulation
The conduction path 14 derived from the end transfers the ink into the deaeration path 43 through the opening 42,
This ink flows downward through the deaeration passage 43 to the opening 44 at the lower end,
44 returns ink to the lower end of the corresponding low level reservoir. Shown in FIG.
As such, each pair of reservoirs 20-21, 22-23, 24-25, and 26-27 contain a reservoir of ink.
A similar flow path for the high level reservoirs 21, 23, 25,
From 27 and 27, the corresponding area of the deaerator 16 and the corresponding passages 15, 13
, And 14, passing ink from the degasser to the ink jet head;
Conveys to the corresponding orifice 11, and returns to the ink jet head.
Through a channel 43 there is an opening 44 at the lower end of the low level reservoirs 20, 22, 24 and 26.
Back. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 07 / 273,3 filed on November 18, 1988 in the name of Hine et al.
83, the degassing system 16 comprises a semi-permeable membrane 50,
Film 50 forms a plurality of opposing walls of each ink passage 41, which are filled with vacuum.
Backed by a space 51, the vacuum-filled space 51 is provided with a pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure in order to extract dissolved gas from the ink in the passage 43. Lower than atmospheric pressure
In order to generate the required pressure, the ink ejection system must be capable of applying pressure and vacuum.
Comprises a generation system 52, which is mounted in a fixed position and is flexible
Via the vacuum line 53 and the pressure line 54 to the ink jet head 10
Have been. This pressure and vacuum generator is used to reciprocate the ink jet head 10.
Are selectively activated in the manner schematically shown in FIG. In FIG.
As shown, the pressure and vacuum generator 52 has a plunger 56.
The plunger 56 includes a reciprocating ink jet head 10.
Can be selectively connected to the main body. Plans for this purpose
Jars 56 are configured to be received within receivers 58 on the ink jet head.
An extendable arm 57 is provided so that the plunger 56 has a vacuum at the syringe outlet 59.
Or in the appropriate direction to generate pressure. From the syringe outlet 59
A line 60 having a check valve 61 exits and reaches the vacuum line 53,
53, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, through a duct 62 and an opening 63
It is connected to the vacuum filled space of the aerator (aeration device). The syringe outlet 59 is connected to the atmosphere and a three-way valve via a valve (valve) 64.
The three-way valve 65, in the position shown, connects the syringe outlet 59 with a pressure line.
Pressure line 54, as shown in FIG.
It is connected to a valve 33 at the upper end of the reservoirs 21, 23, 25 and 27.
In other positions of the three-way valve 65, the valve is connected to the line 54 and the
Connect high level reservoir to atmosphere. The low-level reservoirs 20, 22, 24 and 26
A valve 33 at the upper end communicates directly to the atmosphere. In accordance with the present invention, air or slag is cross-
To expel by flow), the valve 64 is closed and the arm 57 is closed
In order to drive the plunger 56 to the right as seen in FIG.
Engaged, after which it is disengaged and compressed air is retained in the syringe
You. Next, the head 10 is moved to its original position, in which position it is shown in FIG.
The orifice 11 of the head is covered with a movable bar 67 as shown. Yes
The moving bar 67, for example, as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 275,096 in the name of Spehrley et al.
Press against an orifice in the head. As shown by the dotted line in FIG.
This means that when the pressure of the ink in the passage 13 is increased,
From flowing out of the orifice. Thereafter, the three-way valve 65 is
The syringe-type pump outlet 59 is connected to the high-level reservoir for about one second.
Actuated, thereby applying the pressure of the syringe to the ink in the reservoir
Make it possible. Since the low level reservoir is open to the atmosphere, the ink
From the high-level reservoirs 21, 23, 25 and 27, the outlet opening 40 and the corresponding deaerator
Through the passage, the ink jet head is forcibly moved to the conduction path 15. Since the orifice 11 is closed by the bar 67,
Ink and all the air contained in it through passage 14 and opening 44
Through the corresponding deaerator passage 43 communicating with the reservoirs 20, 22, 24, and 26
To force the ink out of the orifice 11
To expel all trapped air or scum from the ink jet head 10. like this
When the cleaning is completed, the bar 67 is retracted to the position shown by the solid line in FIG.
Ink that has been removed and has already been degassed in the degasser 16
Supplied to the head so as to be ejected from the orifice during reciprocation of the head.
It is. If necessary, special features in the name of Spehrley of the United States, filed November 21, 1988, etc.
The empty space from the ink jet head as described in
Spills that expel air or slag can also be achieved using this system.
Noh. In this case, the bar 67 and the web 68 do not contact the orifice 11.
But close to each other with close and narrow spacing, and
Web 68 receives and absorbs ink released during operation from the orifice
As such, it can be moved. Next, the valve 65 is connected to the syringe outlet.
Connected to port 59 to allow pneumatic pressure to be applied to the high level reservoir.
This means that the pressurized inks pass from their reservoirs through the corresponding degassing passages.
Through the passages 15 and to the passages 13 and the ink in those passages.
Is discharged through the orifice 11 and carries with it any air or scum present in the ink jet head. Also, said increased pressure
The force also acts to flow ink into the low level reservoir, but with the added pressure
The force is large enough to achieve a spill-out. This generation
Alternatively, if desired, the low level reservoir may be capped,
Alternatively, the positive pressure from the line 54 may cause those low-level reservoirs to
May be provided. In order to generate the necessary vacuum for the degassing system 16, the three-way valve
65 is set to connect the high level reservoir to the atmosphere. The valve 64
Is opened, and the arm 57 is in the position when the plunger 56 is seen in FIG.
It is engaged in the receptacle 58 until it is at the right end of the stroke, after which it
The valve 64 is closed. Moving plunger 56 to the left as seen in FIG.
The movement creates a vacuum at the syringe outlet 59, which vacuum, through the check valve 61,
This is supplied to a vacuum line 53 which is connected to the deaerator. After this, the arm 57
It is removed from the holder 58. FIGS. 3 and 4 show an alternative construction for the valve 28 connecting the reservoirs of each pair.
doing. In FIG. 3, the valve includes a capture plate 70,
It has a solid central body 71 and a plurality of arms 72 protruding in the radial direction.
Serve to hold this plate in a central position in the reservoir 21,
Will normally cover the opening 32 and ink will flow from the reservoir 21 into the passage 29.
Ensure that flow is prevented. Above the plate 70, a retaining ring 73 is provided.
Spaced apart, this retaining ring 73 has a central opening 74 larger than the diameter of the plate body 71.
have. Thus, the ink in the passage 29 and the reservoirs 20 and 21
Inertia passes through a pressure higher than the pressure in the reservoir 21 during the reciprocation of the head.
When generated in the path 29, the plate 70 is positioned at the dotted line shown in FIG.
Until ink is forced upward, and ink is played from passage 29 through opening 32.
To flow around the main body 71 and into the reservoir 21. The reservoir 21 and
When the pressure in the passage 29 is equal, the plate is shown in solid lines in FIG.
To prevent ink from returning from reservoir 21 to passage 29. If the
If rate 71 is made of a magnetic material such as 440 stainless steel,
If desired, it can be displaced by an external magnet, which allows
The check valve can be removed when needed for Instead of providing a projection 72 on the plate 71, the plate is
They can also be centrally located within the bottom of the reservoir by their inward projection
is there. In this case, the opening 74 should be smaller than the plate 71,
73 should have openings to allow ink to flow around the plate
is there. Thus, according to FIG. 3, the capture plate 70 has one opening
It moves between the surface having 32 and the lower surface of the retaining ring 73, which is the other retaining surface. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the valve comprises a ball 75
75 is supported on a septum 76 between the passageway 29 and the reservoir 21, the septum 76 having a curved surface 77.
And the curved surface 77, as seen in FIG.
Gradually, with an increasing slope on the left side of the mouth, and the septum 76
It has another curved surface 78, which is steep on the right side away from the opening 32
Has risen. According to this configuration, when the ink jet head is seen in FIG.
Ball 75 when accelerating to the right of the ball or decelerating while driving to the left
Inertia causes the ball 75 to roll from the opening 32 to the position indicated by the dotted line on the left,
This allows ink to flow from passageway 29 through opening 32 and into reservoir 21.
I do. When the ink jet head is accelerated to the left as seen in FIG.
Or, when decelerating while moving to the right, the ball 75 is shown by a solid line in FIG.
To the closed position, thereby closing the passage 31 and steeply tilting it.
The beveled slope 78 prevents the ball's inertia from moving it away from its closed position.
You. Holds the ball in its closed position instead of steeply rising ramp 78
To this end, it is also possible to provide pins or other restraining members. The head is static
When stationary, the ball 75 remains in its closed position. Thus, according to FIG. 4, the ball 75 has a curved surface 77 which is one holding surface.
Near the steeply rising region and the steeply rising curved surface 78 which is the other holding surface.
Move around the area. The ball 75 can be made of any suitable material heavier than the ink, and the slope of the surfaces 77 and 78 is such that the reciprocating movement of the reservoir assembly
Move the ball to the left rather than to the right as seen in FIG.
Acceleration and deceleration of the ink jet head during operation, and
The selection is made based on the specific gravity. Typical materials are glass, ceramics, and
It is a metal like stainless steel. If the ball is a stainless steel like 440
If it is made of magnetic type made of stainless steel, it is
An external magnet, if desired, to remove the valve when needed for
Brings an additional advantage of being able to be moved in response to The surfaces 77 and 78 extend from the opening 31 to a vertical wall of the reservoir, and
It is preferred to have a continuously increasing slope. This is because during acceleration and deceleration
This can cause deterioration of the reservoir structure and contamination of the ink in the reservoir.
When the ball 75 is moved to the left without any potential shock
Both allow it to be returned to its closed position. In a typical ink jet head constructed according to the present invention,
A reciprocating movement of the head of about 40 inches (100 cm) accelerates each change in the direction of the head.
And at deceleration, a force of about 3 G was generated in the ink in the reservoir and passage 29.
In this embodiment, a water level gauge between about 0.2 and 0.3
The desired hydrostatic pressure difference of inches (0.5cm to 0.75cm) is generated and
A maximum pressure of about 0.3 inches (0.75 cm) over the body and a pressure of about 0.1 inches (0.25 cm)
It was kept constant with a minimum pressure. This range is approximately net to the orifice
Small enough to produce a negative hydrostatic pressure of 0.5 to 2 inches (1.25 cm to 5 cm)
And thus, sufficient ink to obtain the proper effect of the ejection
To completely prevent ink from leaking from the orifice.
Was something. The high level reservoirs 21, 23, 25 and 27 and the corresponding low level reservoirs 20, 22
, 24, and 26 remain open, and the ink is
Through the connecting passage between the level reservoir and the low level reservoir, as described above, 1
About 0.1 to 2 ml per hour, optimally about 0.5 ml per hour
Since the head 10 flows at a relatively slow speed, the head 10 is circulated back and forth several times during each hour to maintain the desired integer pressure, if not used.
Should be. Due to the inertia of the ink described above, from the low level reservoir to the high level reservoir
As an alternative to pumping, if desired, the negative pressure from line 53 to the high level reservoir
Or positive air pressure from the line 54 to the low level reservoir.
, It is also possible to transfer ink. In either case
The bar 67 and the web 68 are moved toward the orifice 11. Also
However, if a ball valve of the type shown in FIG. 4 is used, its operation is
By using magnetic balls and magnets to displace the balls,
It is. If positive pressure is applied to the low level reservoir, the valve
The valve 65 is set to open the high level reservoir to the atmosphere, and
The lancer 56 is moved to the right as shown in FIG. 5, and the valve 64 is closed.
You. If a negative pressure is applied to the high level reservoir, the valve
65 is set to connect the syringe outlet to the line 54;
Jars 56 are located at the right end of the syringe, and the plungers are seen in FIG.
When moved to the left. Although the present invention has been described herein with reference to a particular embodiment, those skilled in the art will appreciate that
In light of this, many modifications and variations of the present invention will readily occur. Therefore, all
Such variations and modifications of the present invention are included within the intended scope of the present invention. Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in sections. 1. An ink supply system for an ink jet head, comprising: an ink jet head;
And an orifice for discharging ink from the ink jetting head;
First reservoir means in the ink jet head for supplying ink to the ink jet head;
The ink jet to receive ink and transfer ink to the first reservoir means.
Second reservoir means in the head and connecting the orifice to the second reservoir means
An ink passage means in the ink jet head;
A control in the ink jet head for controlling the transfer of ink to reservoir means
And an ink supply system for an ink jet head. 2. The ink of claim 1 wherein said control means comprises pump means for transferring ink from said second reservoir means to said first reservoir means.
Feeding system. 3. Valve means are provided between the first storage means and the second storage means.
The ink supply system according to claim 1, further comprising: 4. The valve means connects the first storage means and the second storage means.
Means to form an opening that is not responsive to pressure differences in the other direction
Pressure responsive means responsive to the difference to allow ink to flow through said opening;
The ink supply system according to embodiment 3, further comprising: 5. The pressure responsive means comprises a capture plate.
5. The ink supply system according to item 4. 6. Means for moving the ink jet head; and
Pumping ink from the second reservoir means to the first reservoir means in response to acceleration
Embodiment 1 characterized by including inertial pumping means for
Ink supply system. 7. Forming an opening for communication between the first reservoir means and the second reservoir means;
Means for normally covering this opening and responding to acceleration of the reservoir means.
And a closing means for exposing the opening.
Supply system. 8. The closing means comprises a driving member and the means forming an opening is adjacent to the opening.
An abutting surface that allows the rolling element to move away from the opening
The ink supply system according to claim 7, wherein the ink supply system has a slope. 9. The slope of the surface increases continuously as it moves away from the opening
An ink supply system according to claim 8, wherein: Ten. An ink supply system for an ink jet head, in which pressure in only one direction
The valve means responsive to the difference comprises a capture plate means, wherein the capture plate means
, Usually held in contact with the opening, and from the opening in response to pressure
An ink supply system for an ink jet head, wherein the ink supply system keeps away. 11． The supplementary plate means is retained between two openings, and a plurality of protrusions
The ink supply system according to embodiment 10, wherein the ink supply system protrudes from the plate means. 12． Responsive to inertia in ink supply system for movable ink jet head
Valve means comprising movable closing means, which normally closes the opening.
And in response to the acceleration of the ink jet head,
An ink supply system for an ink jet head, wherein the ink supply system is kept away from the mouth. 13. 13. The ink supply system according to embodiment 12, wherein a surface is formed next to the opening.
Means having a slope on one side of the opening, the slope being such that the closing means
In response to acceleration in one direction but not in the other direction,
An ink supply system characterized in that the ink supply system is capable of carrying out. 14. An ink supply system for a movable ink jet head,
First and second ink reservoir means movable with an ejection head;
Inertial pump means for pumping ink from a reservoir means to said second reservoir means
And an ink supply system for an ink jet head. 15． An ink supply system for a movable ink jet head, wherein the ink supply system comprises:
A first reservoir means in the ejection head; a second reservoir means in the ink ejection head;
, A valve hand in the ink jet head connecting the first and second reservoir means.
A stage and said inlet passing through said valve means between said first and second reservoir means.
Means for forming an ink passage in the ink jet head.
Are separated from each other in the direction of movement of the ink jet head, whereby
When the ink jet head accelerates or decelerates, the inertia of the ink
Forcible transfer from the first reservoir means to the second reservoir means via the valve means.
An ink supply system for an ink jet head, comprising: 16． Preventing ink in the second reservoir means from exceeding a selected level
The ink supply system according to embodiment 15, further comprising control means. 17． The control means includes means for preventing overflow of the second storage means.
17. The ink supply system according to embodiment 16, wherein the ink supply system comprises: 18． An ink supply system for an ink jet head, wherein the ink jet head is
An orifice means for discharging ink from the ink reservoir, a first reservoir means, and a second reservoir means.
Reservoir means, ink passage means connecting the orifice means to each of the first reservoir means and the second reservoir means, and for closing the orifice means
Closing means and the first reservoir means for cleaning the ink jet head.
From the passage means to the second storage means via the orifice means
Applying pressure to said first reservoir means to allow ink to flow through the passage;
And a pressurizing unit. 19. A dissolving gas remover for removing dissolved gas from the ink;
Embodiment 18. The ink supply system of embodiment 18, comprising means. 20. An ink supply system for an ink jet head, wherein the ink jet head is
An orifice means for discharging ink from the ink reservoir, a first reservoir means, and a second reservoir means.
Storage means, the orifice means and the first and second storage means
Ink passage means leading to each of the stages, and a means for cleaning the ink jet head.
Pressurizing means for applying pressure to one of said reservoir means.
Ink supply system for ink jet head. twenty one. An ink supply system for an ink jet head, comprising: a first reservoir means;
, Second storage means, orifice means, and
Two ink passage means connected to the reservoir means; the first reservoir means and the second reservoir means;
Means for transferring ink between reservoir means; and ink to said first reservoir means.
Supply means for supplying ink to the first storage means by the supply means.
Detecting a low level condition of the ink in the first reservoir means to initiate supply;
Supply system for an ink jet head, comprising: twenty two. Embodiment 21 wherein the detecting means includes a thermistor means.
The ink supply system as described in the above. twenty three. The thermistor means is a constant temperature thermistor.
An ink supply system according to aspect 22. twenty four. A supply system for an ink jet head, comprising: a first reservoir means;
Reservoir means, degassing means for removing dissolved gases from the ink, and
Orifice means for ejecting ink from the firing head; said first reservoir means;
An inlet leading to the degassing means, the orifice means, and the second reservoir means.
Ink passage means, wherein the ink passes from the first reservoir means through the deaeration means to retain the degassed ink in the orifice means.
Allowing continuous flow through said orifice means to said second reservoir means
A supply system for an ink jet head. twenty five. A means for transferring ink from the second reservoir means to the first reservoir means;
The ink supply system of embodiment 24, comprising a step. 26. The means for transferring the ink is different between the first and second reservoir means.
Embodiment 24, comprising means for providing different pressures.
Ink supply system. 27. The means for providing a different pressure may include providing a positive pressure to the second reservoir means.
The ink supply system according to embodiment 26, further comprising means for adding ink.
Stem. 28. The means for transferring the ink includes pump means.
An ink supply system according to embodiment 25, wherein 29. Embodiment 28 wherein the pump means comprises inertial pump means.
On-board ink supply system. 30. Valve means between the first storage means and the second storage means;
The ink supply system according to embodiment 24, wherein the ink supply system comprises: 31. The valve means is adapted to allow the valve means to be opened by an external magnet;
Embodiment 30. An apparatus according to embodiment 30, further comprising a member made of a magnetic material.
Supply system. 32. Ink is supplied to the orifice in the ink jet head including the first and second reservoirs.
Providing a pressure differential between the inks in the first and second reservoirs.
And passing the ink from the first reservoir through the orifice
And supplying the ink to the second storage. 33. To create the pressure difference, one of the reservoirs to the other reservoir
The method according to embodiment 32, further comprising the step of forcibly moving the ink.
. 34. To force the transfer of ink from one of the reservoirs to the other
34. The method of embodiment 33, comprising applying pressure. 35. 33. The method of embodiment 32, comprising pumping ink from the one reservoir to the other reservoir. 36. From the one reservoir to the other by inertial pumping,
36. The method according to embodiment 35, comprising pumping the ink. 37. Through a deaerator between at least one of the reservoirs and the orifice;
33. The method according to embodiment 32, comprising flowing the ink.

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. Inertia responsive valve means for use in an ink supply system for a movable ink jet head, the valve means comprising a closing means, the closing means being movable in the direction of movement of the ink jet head and spaced apart. The closure means is arranged to allow a limited movement between the holding surfaces, the closing means usually being located adjacent to one of the spaced holding surfaces and closing the opening, and then moving in one direction. Is closed and configured to move away from the opening toward the other of the spaced holding surfaces in response to acceleration of the ink jet head, wherein the valve means is normally closed by the closing means. Valve means. 2. An ink supply system for a movable ink ejecting head, comprising: a first ink storing means and a second ink storing means movable with the ink ejecting head; and an ink for communicating the second ink storing means with the first ink storing means. A passage means; having an inertia member in the ink passage means movable in the direction of movement of the ink jet head, for controlling the pressure feeding of ink from the second ink storage means to the first ink storage means; Means comprising a directional valve. 3. An ink supply system for a movable ink jet head, comprising: a first storage unit in the ink jet head; a second storage unit in the ink jet head; a second storage unit and the first storage unit. Valve means in the ink ejection head to be connected; and means for forming an ink passage between the second storage means and the first storage means via the valve means in the ink ejection head, wherein the first The storage means and the second storage means are spaced apart from each other in the direction of movement of the ink jet head, whereby when accelerating or decelerating the ink jet head,
An ink supply system for a movable ink jet head, wherein the ink moves from the second storage means to the first storage means via the valve means by inertia of the ink. 4. An ink supply system for a reciprocating ink jet head, comprising: first storage means and second storage means mounted on the ink jet head; orifice means; and extending between the first storage means and the orifice means. A first ink passage means; and a second ink passage means extending between the orifice means and the second storage means.
An ink passage means; a one-way valve means in the ink ejection head for permitting ink to move between the second storage means and the first storage means in response to a reciprocating movement of the ink ejection head; 2 supply means for supplying ink to the storage means; and detection means for detecting the low level state of the ink in the second storage means and starting supply of the ink to the second storage means by the supply means. An ink supply system for an ink jet head, comprising: