Print

Abstract

An electronic data storage device for use with a cartridge for storing and dispensing liquid for use with an inkjet printer, the electronic data storage device storing print data, wherein the print data includes at least one of: liquid density data, liquid conductivity data, recirculation data, and printer geometry data.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to inkjet printing and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to electronic data storage devices for use with removable cartridges for inkjet printers, such as continuous inkjet printers. Background Art

[0002] In an inkjet printing system, printing consists of individual drops of ink generated at the nozzle and propelled toward the substrate. There are two main systems: drop-on-demand, where drops are generated for printing as and when needed, and continuous jet printing, where drops are produced continuously and only selected drops are directed toward the substrate, with the rest being recirculated to the ink supply.

[0003] A continuous inkjet printer supplies pressurized ink to a printhead droplet generator, where a continuous stream of ink from a nozzle is broken up into individual regular droplets, for example by an oscillating piezoelectric element. The droplets are directed across a charging electrode where they are selectively and individually given a predetermined charge before passing through a transverse electric field provided across a pair of deflection plates. Each charged droplet is deflected by the field by an amount that depends on its charge before impacting the substrate, while uncharged droplets continue without deflection and are collected at a gutter from which they are recycled to the ink supply for reuse. The charged droplets bypass the gutter and impact the substrate at a position determined by the charge on the droplet and the position of the substrate relative to the printhead. Typically, the substrate moves in one direction relative to the printhead and the droplets are deflected in a direction generally perpendicular to that direction, but the deflection plates may be oriented at an angle to the vertical to compensate for the velocity of the substrate (the movement of the substrate relative to the printhead between droplet arrivals means that the rows of droplets will otherwise extend not completely perpendicular to the direction of movement of the substrate).

[0004] In continuous inkjet printing, characters are printed from a matrix comprising a regular array of potential drop locations. Each matrix comprises a number of columns (dashes), each defined by a line comprising a number of potential drop locations (e.g., seven) determined by the charge applied to the drop. Thus, each usable drop is charged according to the expected position in the dash. If a particular drop is not used, it is not charged and is captured at the gutter for recycling. This cycle is repeated for all dashes in the matrix, and then the next character matrix is ​​started again.

[0005] The ink is delivered to the printhead under pressure by an ink supply system which is generally housed in a sealed compartment of a cabinet which includes a separate compartment for control circuitry and a user interface panel. The system includes a main pump which draws ink from a reservoir or tank via a filter and delivers the ink under pressure to the printhead. As the ink is consumed, the reservoir is refilled as needed from a replaceable ink cartridge which is releasably connected to the reservoir by a supply conduit. The ink is fed from the reservoir to the printhead via a flexible delivery conduit. Unused ink drops captured by the grooves are recirculated to the reservoir by a pump via a return conduit. The flow of ink in each conduit is generally controlled by a solenoid valve and / or other similar components.

[0006] As the ink circulates through the system, the ink tends to thicken due to evaporation of the solvent, particularly with recirculating ink exposed to air in its passage between the nozzles and the gutter. To compensate for this, a "make-up" solvent is added to the ink from a replaceable cartridge as needed to keep the ink viscosity within desired limits. The solvent may also be used to flush printhead components, such as the nozzles and gutter, during a cleaning cycle.

[0007] The ink and solvent cartridges are filled with a predetermined amount of fluid and are generally releasably connected to a reservoir of an ink supply system so that the reservoir can be intermittently replenished by drawing ink and / or solvent from the cartridge as needed. To ensure proper registration of the cartridge with the supply conduit, the cartridge is typically connected to the ink supply system via a docking station that includes a cartridge holder. When the cartridge is properly docked, fluid communication with the outlet port of the cartridge is ensured.

[0008] From the manufacturer's perspective, it is important that an inkjet printer consumes only the correct type and quality of ink (or solvent). If a cartridge containing the wrong ink is used, the print quality may suffer, and in extreme cases, the printer may fail. Therefore, in some inkjet printers, it is known to provide the ink cartridge with an external machine-readable label (e.g., a barcode) that carries information about the fluid contained in the cartridge. The label is scanned by a reader associated with the printer's control system before the cartridge is installed, and only when the printer's control system reads the information on the label and verifies that the ink is suitable for operation with the printer, does it allow the ink or solvent to be drawn from the cartridge. Summary of the invention

[0009] It is an object of the present invention, inter alia, to provide an improved or alternative inkjet printer.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an electronic data storage device for use with a cartridge for storing and dispensing a liquid for use with an inkjet printer, the electronic data storage device storing print data, wherein the print data comprises at least one of: liquid viscosity data, liquid density data, liquid conductivity data, cartridge geometry data, and printer geometry data.

[0011] By providing print data or printer / cartridge geometry data about various properties of the ink contained within the cartridge on an electronic storage device associated with the cartridge, it is possible to provide enhanced printing performance. This approach avoids any risks associated with manual entry of data which is inherently unreliable and susceptible to user error. Thus, by providing the print data at a storage location on an electronic data storage device associated with the cartridge, it is ensured that this data is reliably available to the printer in use to allow optimal control of the printer based on accurate print data.

[0012] Liquid viscosity data may include data representing the viscosity of the liquid stored in the box. Liquid density data may include data representing the density of the liquid stored in the box. Liquid conductivity data may include data representing the conductivity of the liquid stored in the box. Box geometry data may include data representing the geometry of the box. Data representing the geometry of the box may include data representing the volume of the reservoir of the box. Printer geometry data may include data representing the geometry of one or more components of a printer suitable for use with the box and / or the liquid contained in the box.

[0013] The printer geometry data may include data representing the diameter of a printer nozzle with which the liquid contained in the cartridge is intended to be used. That is, the printer geometry data may include data representing a suitable nozzle geometry.

[0014] The print data may include recirculation data. The recirculation data may include data for controlling the recirculation of air to a print head of the printer in a manner suitable for the liquid contained in the cartridge. The recirculation data may include data representing a default level for controlling the recirculation of air to the print head. The recirculation data may include a humidity threshold. The humidity threshold may include data representing a humidity level above which, for the type of ink contained in the cartridge, air recirculation to the print head should be restricted. The recirculation data may include a temperature threshold. The temperature threshold may include data representing a temperature level above which, for the type of ink contained in the cartridge, air recirculation to the print head should be restricted.

[0015] The electronic data storage device may be configured to allow data write access to predetermined data storage portions only by authorized devices.

[0016] By allowing write access only by authorized devices, printing performance can be improved by preventing data from being altered by unauthorized devices and ensuring that the data correctly reflects the current state of a consumable component (e.g., a cartridge or filter module) associated with the electronic data storage device. For example, a data item indicating that a cartridge is empty can be prevented from being overwritten by an unauthorized device, so that even if a cartridge is refilled (e.g., with ink that is not certified for use with a particular printer, or is different from the ink that was previously used with the printer), the cartridge can be prevented from being used with the printer, thereby preventing the printer from being contaminated by incompatible ink.

[0017] The electronic data storage device may be configured to: receive a write request including address data associated with a predetermined data storage portion, and an identifier of a writing device; authenticate the writing device based on the identifier; and write data to the predetermined data storage portion if, but only if, the authentication indicates that the writing device is an authorized device.

[0018] There is also provided a cartridge for storing and dispensing liquid for use with an inkjet printer, the cartridge comprising: a reservoir defining an interior space for storing the liquid; an outlet for dispensing the liquid; and an electronic data storage device according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0019] There is also provided an inkjet printer comprising a cartridge having an electronic data storage device according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0020] The inkjet printer may include a controller. The controller may be configured to receive data from the electronic data storage device and control the operation of the printer based on the received data.

[0021] Controlling the operation of the printer based on the received data may also include receiving sensor data, and controlling the operation of the printer based on the sensor data. That is, the printer may be controlled based on the sensor data and the received data.

[0022] This control allows the printer to be controlled based on sensor data (e.g., temperature and / or humidity sensor data) in a manner suitable for the liquid contained within the cartridge (e.g., based on threshold data stored in an electronic storage device indicating suitable humidity and / or temperature levels for such liquid).

[0023] The inkjet printer may be a continuous inkjet printer. The inkjet printer may be an authorized device.

[0024] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an inkjet printer comprising a controller. The printer is configured to receive a removable module comprising an electronic data storage device storing data about the operation of the removable module, and at least one component selected from the group consisting of a filter, a fluid damper, a valve, a pump, a gas sensor, an ink drop generator, an inkjet printing nozzle, a piezoelectric oscillator, a charging electrode, a deflection electrode, and a groove. The printer is further configured to receive at least one cartridge. The controller is configured to receive data from the electronic data storage device and control the operation of the printer based on the received data.

[0025] A removable module is intended to mean a consumable component of a printer having one or more components that perform a mechanical function and may be susceptible to wear. A removable module may need to be replaced or repaired in a printer at regular maintenance intervals. A cartridge (e.g., an ink cartridge or a solvent cartridge) is not considered a removable module of a printer. However, a cartridge is a consumable component of a printer.

[0026] The removable module may include a filter module, the component being a filter, such as an ink filter.

[0027] The removable module may include a service module. The service module may include a pump, such as, for example, a flushing pump. The service module may include a valve, such as, for example, a fluid control valve and / or a pressure relief valve. The service module may include a gas sensor.

[0028] The removable module may include a printing module. The printing module may be referred to as a print head. The printing module may include an ink drop generator including an inkjet printing nozzle and a piezoelectric oscillator. The printing module may include charging electrodes and / or deflection electrodes, and / or grooves.

[0029] The cartridge may be an ink cartridge. The cartridge may be a solvent cartridge. The cartridge may include a reservoir defining an interior space for storing a liquid and an outlet for dispensing the liquid.

[0030] The data regarding the operation of the removable module may include data regarding the status of the removable module and / or components of the removable module. The data regarding the status of the removable module and / or components of the removable module may include data indicating the number of hours the removable module and / or components of the removable module have been used, or data indicating that the removable module and / or components of the removable module have exceeded a predetermined usage limit.

[0031] The provision of a printer in which data is received by a controller from electronic storage devices associated with removable modules enables the printer to be automatically configured based on the received data. For example, where removable modules are expected to have a useful life that is less than the useful life of the printer, or where they may be replaced for any reason, the electronic data storage devices associated with those removable modules may allow automatic configuration changes to be made as needed to ensure continued operation of the printer. Specifically, where parameters associated with components may differ between a particular module and a replacement for that particular module (e.g., filter life or filter usage data), data regarding the parameters may be used to adjust the configuration of the printer in some manner (e.g., to record usage and provide appropriate alerts). By providing data to the controller of the printer, it is possible to reduce reliance on manual data entry (which is inherently unreliable) and automatically reconfigure the printer as needed.

[0032] The inkjet printer can be configured to receive a plurality of removable modules, each of the plurality of removable modules comprising a corresponding electronic data storage device for storing data regarding the operation of a corresponding one of the plurality of removable modules, each of the plurality of removable modules further comprising a component selected from the following: a filter, a fluid damper, a valve, a pump, a gas sensor, a droplet generator, an inkjet printing nozzle, a piezoelectric oscillator, a charging electrode, a deflection electrode and a groove.

[0033] By providing an electronic data storage device associated with each of a respective plurality of removable modules, it will be appreciated that the possibilities for automatic configuration are increased. This is particularly the case where those modules may be provided in different varieties.

[0034] In particular, using automatic configuration in this manner allows removable modules to be provided in different varieties without significantly increasing the risk of printer failure. That is, it may be desirable to provide a variety of modules, where different modules may be particularly suitable for specific printers based on properties such as, for example, expected usage, environmental conditions, maintenance requirements, etc., rather than providing a single variety of modules that is suitable for all printers and all uses.

[0035] The controller may be configured to receive data from each of the electronic data storage devices and to control the operation of the printer based on the received data.

[0036] Controlling the operation of the printer based on the received data may include configuring the operation of the printer based on the received data.

[0037] At least one of the cartridges may also include an electronic storage device.

[0038] The controller may be configured to receive data from the electronic data storage device associated with at least one cartridge and to control operation of the printer based on the received data.

[0039] Controlling the operation of the printer based on the received data may also include receiving sensor data, and controlling the operation of the printer based on the sensor data. That is, the printer may be controlled based on both the sensor data and the received data.

[0040] The controller may be configured to receive data from the first electronic data storage device of the at least one cartridge and the second electronic data storage device of the removable module or one of the removable modules and control operation of the printer based on the received data.

[0041] The use of data stored in an electronic data storage device associated with both the cartridge and the replaceable module increases the number of ways in which automatic configuration and control of the printer can be provided. That is, rather than simply providing automatic configuration of cartridge volume, the data can be used in combination with usage data associated with an ink pump contained within a service module of the ink supply system to ensure that appropriate maintenance operations are performed at convenient points in time. Alternatively or in addition, compatibility between components, such as the nozzles of a newly installed print head, and the ink contained within the ink cartridge can be checked.

[0042] The electronic data storage device of the removable module or one of the removable modules and / or the cartridge may be configured to allow data write access to predetermined data storage portions only by authorized devices. The electronic data storage device may be configured to determine whether the controller is an authorized device and allow data write access to predetermined data storage addresses by the controller if, but only if, the controller is an authorized device.

[0043] The received data from the electronic data storage device storing data regarding the operation of the removable module may include data representing properties of inkjet printing nozzles associated with a print head of the printer. Controlling the operation of the printer based on the received data may include generating a modulation signal for the inkjet printing nozzle based on the received data.

[0044] For example, different nozzles may require different forms of module signals. Thus, by providing data indicative of a particular type of nozzle, it is possible to automatically control the printer based on data stored in the electronic data storage device without having to manually reconfigure the printer when the nozzle type changes (e.g., when a new print head is installed).

[0045] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an inkjet printer configured to receive at least one consumable component, the at least one consumable component comprising: an electronic data storage device configured to store print data and further configured to allow data write access to a predetermined data storage portion only by an authorized device; the inkjet printer comprises a controller; wherein the electronic data storage device is configured to: determine whether the controller is an authorized device, and allow data write access to a predetermined data storage address by the controller if but only if the controller is an authorized device.

[0046] By allowing write access only by authorized devices, printing performance can be improved by preventing data from being changed by unauthorized devices and ensuring that the data correctly reflects the current state of a consumable component (e.g., a cartridge or filter module) associated with an electronic data storage device. In this way, data items that are known to indicate a particular property of a cartridge correctly reflect that property. For example, data indicating that a cartridge is empty can be prevented from being overwritten by an unauthorized device, so that even if the cartridge is refilled (e.g., with ink that is not certified for use with a particular printer, or is different from the ink that was previously used with the printer), the cartridge can be prevented from being used with the printer to prevent contamination of the printer with incompatible ink. In this way, printing performance can be protected and improved.

[0047] The electronic data storage device may be configured to: receive a write request including address data associated with a predetermined data storage portion, and an identifier of a writing device; authenticate the writing device based on the identifier; and write data to the predetermined data storage portion if, but only if, the authentication indicates that the writing device is an authorized device.

[0048] The predetermined data storage address may be arranged to store data regarding a status of the consumable component.

[0049] The data relating to the status data may include data indicating a number of hours that the consumable has been used, or data indicating that the consumable has exceeded a predetermined usage limit.

[0050] The consumable component may include a cartridge for storing and dispensing a liquid for use with an inkjet printer, the cartridge comprising: a reservoir defining an interior space for storing the liquid; an outlet for dispensing the liquid; and the electronic data storage device.

[0051] The status data may include data indicating the volume of liquid remaining in the cartridge.

[0052] The consumable component may include a filter.

[0053] The status data may include data indicating the number of hours the filter has been used.

[0054] It will be appreciated that features described in the context of one aspect of the invention may be used with another aspect of the invention. In particular, features described in the context of any one of the first, second and third aspects of the invention may be used in combination with other aspects of the invention and features thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0056] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a continuous inkjet printer according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic representation of a continuous inkjet printer in;

[0058] Figure 3 For Figure 1 A front view of an ink cartridge for use with a printer;

[0059] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A perspective view of the ink cartridge in FIG.

[0060] Figure 5 Taken along line A-A' Figure 3 A cross-sectional side view of the ink cartridge in;

[0061] Figure 6 For use with Figure 1 Printers and Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of an ink cartridge assembly for use with a cartridge in;

[0062] Figure 7 for Figure 1 A schematic representation of a controller for a continuous inkjet printer in;

[0063] Figure 8 To indicate by Figure 1 A flowchart of operations performed by a continuous inkjet printer in; and

[0064] Fig. 9 To indicate by Figure 3 A flowchart of a method performed by a controller. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] Figure 1 An inkjet printer 1 is schematically shown. The inkjet printer 1 comprises an ink supply system 2, a print head 3 and a controller 4. The ink supply system 2 comprises an ink storage system 5 and a service module 6. Figure 1, the fluid flow through the inkjet printer is schematically illustrated by solid arrows, and the control signals are schematically illustrated by dashed arrows. The service module 6 is configured to releasably engage with the inkjet printer 1 so that the module can be easily removed from the inkjet printer 1 for repair or replacement. The service module 6 is thus a removable module for the inkjet printer.

[0066] The service module 6 comprises two cartridge connections for releasably engaging with a fluid cartridge. In particular, the service module 6 comprises an ink cartridge connection 7 for releasably engaging with an ink cartridge 8, and a solvent cartridge connection 9 for releasably engaging with a solvent cartridge 10. The service module 6 also comprises a printer connection 11 for releasably engaging with an inkjet printer. In use, the service module 6 forms part of the inkjet printer 1, and it will be appreciated that in this context of the expression "for releasably engaging with an inkjet printer", the term "inkjet printer" is intended to mean those parts of the inkjet printer that do not include the service module 6.

[0067] The printer connection portion 11 includes a plurality of fluid ports, each of which is arranged to be connected to a fluid passage within the inkjet printer 1 to allow fluid to flow between the service module 6 and other parts of the inkjet printer 1 (e.g., the ink storage system 5 and the printhead 3). The printer connection portion 11 also includes an electrical connector arranged to engage with a corresponding connector on the inkjet printer 1.

[0068] Each of the ink cartridge connection 7 and the solvent cartridge connection 9 includes a fluid connector for engaging the outlet of the respective ink cartridge 8 and solvent cartridge 10 so as to allow fluid to flow from the cartridges 8, 10 into the service module 6. Ink and solvent may flow from the service module 6 to the ink storage system 5 via the printer connection 11. In operation, ink from the ink cartridge 8 and solvent from the solvent cartridge 10 may be mixed within the ink storage system 5 to generate a printing ink of a desired viscosity suitable for use in printing. This ink is supplied to the printhead 3, and unused ink is returned from the printhead 3 to the ink storage system 5. The service module 6 may also be operable to provide a flow of solvent to the printhead 3 via the printer connection 11 for cleaning purposes.

[0069] The inkjet printer 1 is controlled by a controller 4. The controller 4 receives signals from various sensors within the inkjet printer 1 and is operable to provide appropriate control signals to the ink supply system 2 and the print head 3 to control the flow of ink and solvent through the inkjet printer 1. The controller 4 may be any suitable device known in the art and typically includes at least a processor and a memory.

[0070] The ink cartridge 8 is provided with an electronic data storage device 12 storing data about the printer 1 and the contained ink. Similarly, the solvent cartridge 10 is provided with an electronic data storage device 13 storing data about the printer 1 and the contained solvent. The service module 6 may also include an electronic data storage device 14. The electronic data storage device 14 may store identification data (e.g., an identification code).

[0071] The ink storage system 5 also includes a filter module 25 (which is described in more detail below) which is provided with an electronic data storage device 70. The print head 3 is also provided with an electronic data storage device 71. The ink storage system 5 itself is also provided with an electronic data storage device 72. For example, the electronic storage device 72 may be provided on an ink management board (not shown). The controller 4 is arranged to communicate with the electronic data storage devices 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72 as described in more detail below.

[0072] For example, an ink management board within the ink storage system 5 may be arranged to provide an interface between the controller 4 and the various filter modules 25 (and associated electronic storage devices 70), the service module 6 (and associated electronic storage devices 14), the ink cartridges 8 (and associated electronic storage devices 12), and the solvent cartridges 10 (and associated electronic storage devices 13).

[0073] Now refer to Figure 2 The inkjet printer 1 and the specific ink supply system 2 will be described in further detail. Figure 2 Schematically shown in more detail Figure 1 1 and 2. The elements of the inkjet printer 1 are shown in FIG. 1 , and for the sake of clarity, the controller 4, the electronic data storage devices 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72 and associated signals are omitted.

[0074] In operation, ink is delivered under pressure from the ink supply system 2 to the printhead 3 and returned via a flexible tube that is tied together with other fluid tubes and electrical wires (not shown) into what is known in the art as an "umbilical" conduit 15. The ink supply system 2 is located in a cabinet 16, which is typically desktop mounted, and the printhead 3 is disposed outside the cabinet 16.

[0075] The ink storage system 5 comprises a mixing tank 17 for storing a reservoir 18 for ink, and a solvent tank 19 for storing a solvent reservoir 20 for solvent. The mixing tank has a generally conical lower portion in which the reservoir 18 for ink is arranged.

[0076] In operation, ink is drawn from a reservoir 18 of ink in a mixing tank 17 by a system pump 21. The mixing tank 17 is replenished as needed with ink and replenishment solvent from replaceable ink cartridges 8 and solvent cartridges 10. Ink and solvent are transferred from the ink cartridges 8 and solvent cartridges 10 to the mixing tank 17 via a service module 6, as will be described further below.

[0077] It will be understood from the following description that the ink supply system 2 and the print head 3 comprise a number of flow control valves of the same general type: dual coil solenoid operated two-way flow control valves. The operation of the various valves is governed by a controller 4 .

[0078] The ink drawn from the mixing tank 17 is first filtered by a first (relatively coarse) filter 22 downstream of the system pump 21, and then selectively delivered under pressure to two venturi pumps 23, 24 and a filter module 25. The filter module 25 includes a second, finer ink filter 26 and a fluid damper 27. The fluid damper 27 has a conventional configuration and removes pressure pulsations caused by the operation of the system pump 21. The ink is supplied to the print head 3 through a feed line 28 via a pressure transducer 29.

[0079] At the print head 3, ink from the feed line 28 is supplied to the ink drop generator 30 via a first flow control valve 31. The ink drop generator 30 includes a nozzle 32 from which pressurized ink is discharged, and a piezoelectric oscillator (not shown) that generates pressure pulsations in the ink stream at a predetermined frequency and amplitude so as to break the ink stream into regularly sized and spaced ink drops 33. The breakup point is downstream of the nozzle 32 and substantially coincides with a charging electrode 34, where a predetermined charge is applied to each ink drop 33. This charge determines the degree of deflection of the ink drop 33 as the ink drop 33 passes through a pair of deflection plates 35 between which a substantially constant electric field is maintained. Uncharged ink droplets pass substantially undeflected to the gutter 36, from which they are recirculated to the ink supply system 2 through a return line 37 via a second flow control valve 38. The charged ink droplets are projected toward a substrate (not shown) moving past the print head 3. The location at which each ink drop 33 impacts on the substrate is determined by the amount of ink drop deflection and the speed of substrate movement.

[0080] To ensure efficient operation of the drop generator 30, the temperature of the ink entering the print head 3 may be maintained at a desired level by a heater (not shown) before it passes to the first flow control valve 31. In the case of the printer starting from rest, it is desirable to allow the ink to flow out through the nozzle 32 without projecting toward the groove 36 or the substrate. In this case, the ink flows from the first flow control valve 31 to the nozzle 32, and then flows to the second flow control valve 38 via the bleed line 39, where it is connected to the return line 37. Whether the ink is a bleed flow or recirculated unused ink captured by the groove 36, the ink's passage into the return line 37 is controlled by the second flow control valve 38. The returned ink is sucked back to the mixing tank 17 by the venturi pump 23.

[0081] The venturi pumps 23, 24 are of a known configuration and utilize the Bernoulli principle whereby a fluid flowing through a restriction in a conduit is increased to a high velocity jet at the restriction and a low pressure area is created. If a side port is provided at the restriction, this low pressure can be used to draw in and carry away a second fluid in a conduit connected to the side port. In this case, pressurized ink flows through a pair of conduits 40, 41 and returns to a reservoir 18 in a mixing tank 17. Each conduit 40, 41 is provided with a side port 42, 43 at the venturi restriction. The increase in ink flow rate creates a suction pressure at the side ports 42, 43 and this is used to draw back ink and / or solvent via the return line 37 and the supply line 44, respectively.

[0082] As the ink flows through the system and comes into contact with air in the mixing tank 17 and at the printhead 3, a portion of its solvent content tends to evaporate. The ink supply system 2 is therefore operable to supply replenishment solvent as required to maintain the ink viscosity within a predetermined range suitable for use.

[0083] The service module 6 includes a body 45 that defines a plurality of fluid conduits ( Figure 2 The service module 6 also includes a flushing pump 47 and four valves 48, 49, 50, 51, which are arranged to selectively connect two or more of the plurality of fluid conduits 46 so as to form one or more fluid passages through the body 45. The flushing pump 47 and the valves 48, 49, 50, 51 are controlled by the controller 4 by sending one or more control signals via the printer connection 11. Using appropriate control signals, the service module 6 can be set into a variety of different configurations to allow ink or solvent to flow through the inkjet printer 1 in a variety of different modes as now described. In the following, it should be assumed that each of the four valves 48, 49, 50, 51 is closed unless otherwise stated.

[0084] In operation, ink from ink cartridge 8 and solvent from solvent cartridge 10 may be added to mixing tank 17 as needed to produce a printing ink of a desired viscosity suitable for printing. This addition of ink and / or solvent to mixing tank 17 uses a venturi pump 24.

[0085] The mixing tank 17 is provided with a level sensor (not shown) which is operable to determine the level of ink in the mixing tank 17 and output a signal representative thereof to the controller 4. Ink is consumed during printing and therefore during normal operation the level of ink in the mixing tank 17 will decrease over time. When the level of ink in the mixing tank drops below a lower threshold, the controller 4 is operable to control the ink supply system 2 so as to add more ink to the mixing tank 17. Using a suitable control signal, ink is drawn from the mixing tank 17 by the system pump 21 and delivered under pressure to the venturi pump 24 to generate a suction pressure at the side port 43. To add ink to the mixing tank 17, valves 50, 51 in the service module 6 are opened. Ink is drawn from the ink cartridge 8 along the supply line 44 under the suction pressure from the venturi pump 24. Ink is drained into the mixing tank 17, raising the level. When the level of ink in the mixing tank 17 reaches an upper threshold, the controller 4 is operable to stop the supply of ink to the mixing tank 17. To achieve this, flow to the venturi pump 24 is stopped and valves 50 , 51 are closed.

[0086] After this process of replenishing the level of ink in the mixing tank 17, the controller 4 sends a signal representing the amount of ink transferred from the cartridge 8 to the mixing tank 17 to the data storage device 12 on the ink cartridge 8. The amount of ink remaining in the ink cartridge 8 can be stored on the data storage device 12 and can be updated in response to the signal from the controller 4.

[0087] As explained above, as the ink flows through the system and comes into contact with air in the mixing tank 17 and at the printhead 3, a portion of its solvent content tends to evaporate. The viscosity of the ink in the mixing tank 17 (or an amount representative thereof) is regularly determined using a viscometer 52 disposed therein.

[0088] The viscometer 52 is regularly supplied with ink via the filter module 25 under pressure from the system pump 21. The flow of ink into the viscometer is controlled by a control valve 53. Using the control valve 53, a predetermined volume of ink is supplied to the chamber in the viscometer 52, and then the supply of ink to the viscometer is stopped. The ink is then discharged from the chamber under gravity. The rate at which the ink is discharged from the chamber depends on the viscosity of the ink, and is monitored using a plurality of electrodes arranged at different levels in the chamber. Signals from the plurality of electrodes are received by a controller 4, which is operable to determine whether the viscosity of the ink in the mixing tank 17 is within a desired operating range defined by a lower threshold and an upper threshold.

[0089] If the viscosity is above the upper threshold, solvent is added to the mixing tank 17 from the solvent reservoir 20 in the solvent tank 19 as now described. The ink is drawn from the mixing tank 17 and the ink is delivered under pressure to the venturi pump 24 to generate a suction pressure at the side port 43. To add the solvent, the valves 49, 50 in the service module 6 are opened. Under the suction pressure from the venturi pump 24, the solvent is drawn from the solvent reservoir 20 along the line 62 to the service module 6 and back to the mixing tank 17 along the supply line 44. The solvent is discharged into the mixing tank 17, reducing the viscosity of the ink in the reservoir 18.

[0090] The controller 4 may determine, based on the determined ink viscosity, the amount of solvent to add to the mixing tank 17. When the desired amount of solvent has been added to the mixing tank 17, flow to the venturi pump 24 may be stopped and valves 49, 50 closed.

[0091] Once the solvent has been added to the mixing tank 17, the viscosity of the ink can again be determined using the viscometer 52. There can be a time delay between adding the solvent and rechecking the viscosity of the ink to allow the solvent to mix with the ink. If upon rechecking the viscosity of the ink in the mixing tank 17, the viscosity is still above the upper threshold, more solvent can be added to the mixing tank 17 from the solvent reservoir 20 in the solvent tank 19. This process can be repeated until the desired viscosity of the ink in the mixing tank 17 is reached.

[0092] The solvent tank 19 is provided with a level sensor (not shown) which is operable to determine the level of solvent in the solvent tank 19 and output a signal indicative thereof to the controller 4. Solvent is consumed during operation of the printer 1 as it is added to the mixing tank 17 to adjust the viscosity of the ink in the reservoir 18. Therefore, the level of solvent in the solvent reservoir 20 in the solvent tank 19 decreases over time.

[0093] When the level of solvent in the solvent tank 19 falls below a lower threshold, the controller 4 is operable to control the ink supply system 2 so as to add more solvent to the solvent tank 19. Using appropriate control signals, valves 48, 49 are opened in the service module 6. Solvent is drawn from the solvent cartridge 10 by the electric flushing pump 47 in the service module 6 and supplied to the solvent reservoir 20 via line 62. Solvent is drained into the solvent reservoir 20, thereby raising the level.

[0094] When the solvent level in solvent tank 1 reaches an upper threshold, controller 4 is operable to stop the supply of solvent to solvent tank 19. To achieve this, flow to flush pump 47 is stopped and valves 48, 49 are closed.

[0095] After this process of replenishing the solvent level in the solvent tank 19, the controller 4 sends a signal representing the amount of solvent transferred from the cartridge 10 to the solvent tank 19 to the data storage device 13 on the solvent cartridge 10. The amount of solvent remaining in the solvent cartridge 10 may be stored on the data storage device 13 and may be updated in response to the signal from the controller 4.

[0096] The replenishment solvent provided from the solvent cartridge 10 is also used to flush the print head 3 at appropriate times to keep it free of obstructions (as now described). Ink is drawn from the mixing tank 17 and delivered under pressure to the venturi pump 23 to generate suction pressure at the side port 42. Solvent is drawn from the solvent cartridge 10 by the electric flushing pump 47 in the service module 6 and supplied to the print head 3 through the flushing line 54 via the filter 55. The flow of solvent from the service module 6 to the print head 3 is controlled by the first flow control valve 31.

[0097] A pressure relief valve 56 is connected across the inlet and outlet of the flush pump 47 and is used to relieve excess pressure on the suction side of the flush pump 47. For example, the pressure relief valve 56 may be arranged to maintain a desired pressure downstream of the flush pump 47, for example 2.5 bar.

[0098] The solvent flows to the nozzle 32 via the first flow control valve 31. After passing through the nozzle 32 and entering the groove 36, the solvent (along with the dissolved ink from the print head 3) is sucked into the nozzle 32 under the suction pressure from the venturi pump 23. The solvent and ink are discharged into the mixing tank 17.

[0099] As explained above, the use of the venturi pump 24 to achieve the flow of ink and solvent into the mixing tank 17 requires a minimum amount of fluid in the mixing tank 17. If the mixing tank 17 is low on fluid for operating the venturi pump 24 (e.g., before the ink supply system 2 is used for the first time), the flush pump 47 in the service module 6 can be used to prime the mixing tank 17 by adding fluid to it.

[0100] To fill the mixing tank 17, the ink cartridge is engaged with the solvent cartridge connection 9. To add ink to the mixing tank 17, valves 48, 50 in the service module 6 are opened. Ink is drawn from the ink cartridge (in the solvent cartridge connection 9) by the electric flushing pump 47 in the service module 6 and supplied to the mixing tank 17 through the supply line 44 via the side port 42. Once a sufficient amount of ink has been added to the mixing tank 17, the flushing pump 47 is stopped and the valves 48, 50 are closed.

[0101] In use, the atmosphere in the mixing tank 17 and the solvent tank 19 may become saturated with the solvent. A condenser unit 57 is provided in an upper portion of the solvent tank 19. The condenser unit 57 may include, for example, a Peltier type condenser.

[0102] A vent pipe 58 is provided between the mixing tank 17 and the solvent tank 19 to allow air to flow therebetween. The vent pipe 58 is arranged so that it connects the space above the ink reservoir 18 to the space above the solvent reservoir 20. The vapor carrying the solvent from the mixing tank 17 enters the solvent tank 19 via the vent pipe 58. The air from the mixing tank 17 is hotter than the air in the solvent tank (due to the action of the system pump 21), and therefore the air from the mixing tank 17 rises to the top of the solvent tank via the vent pipe 58, where it enters the condenser unit 57.

[0103] As the air contacts the active elements within the condenser unit 57 and is cooled, the solvent condenses. The condensate (solvent) drains into the solvent reservoir 20. The dry air (from which the solvent has been removed) enters the common port of the three-way control valve 59. As will now be described, the control valve 59 may be used to control the air flow through the system.

[0104] Dry air from the condenser unit 57 may flow through an outlet duct 60 via which it is exhausted to an air space within the printer cabinet 16. This air flow path may be a default configuration for the control valve 59.

[0105] Alternatively, dry air from the condenser unit 57 may flow through a line 61 which passes through the umbilical 15 to the print head 3. The line 61 terminates in the print head 3 at a return line 37 near the groove 36. The vacuum pressure draws the exhausted air (along with any ink that enters the groove 36) along the return line 37 toward the second flow control valve 38. Normal operation of the venturi pump 23 draws unused ink drops and exhausted air along the return line 37, through the umbilical 15 and back to the side port 42. Both the unused ink and the exhausted air are exhausted into the mixing tank 17.

[0106] When the control valve 59 is used to direct drying air from the condenser unit 57 through the pipe 61, a 'closed' hydraulic loop is created. Any solvent vapor not recovered by the condenser unit 57 is passed back to the mixing tank 17 via the pipes 61, 32, and thus the loss of solvent from the inkjet printer 1 is minimized. The system continuously recirculates the same air, which prevents (or at least minimizes) the influx of ambient air that would otherwise enter via the groove 36 (for example, where the control valve 59 exhausts drying air from the condenser unit 57 via the outlet pipe 60 to the air space within the printer cabinet 16). This prevention of ambient air from entering the system helps prevent the uptake of oxygen via the groove 36, which in the long term promotes improved ink performance by reducing the probability of ink oxidation.

[0107] In some embodiments, the service module 6 may also be a gas sensor 87 operable to determine the presence or level of a gas (e.g., solvent vapor) within the cabinet 16. Gas sensors may become "poisoned" over time and thus generally have a limited useful life after which they need to be replaced.

[0108] The service module 6 provides an interface between the inkjet printer 1 and each of the ink cartridges 8 and solvent cartridges 10, allowing fluid to flow from each cartridge 8, 10 to the inkjet printer, and providing an electrical connection between the inkjet printer 1 and each cartridge 8, 10. Because the printer connection portion 11 provides a releasable engagement with the inkjet printer, the service module 6 can be easily removed from the inkjet printer 1 for repair or replacement. Generally, this repair or replacement will be performed at a replacement rate that is different from the replacement rate of the fluid cartridges 8, 10 or the replacement rate of other replaceable components of the printer 1. This is advantageous because during operation of the inkjet printer 1, one or more of the plurality of conduits 46, valves 48, 49, 50, 51 and flush pump 47 may become obstructed or damaged, or the gas sensor 87 may reach the end of its useful life.

[0109] Figures 3 to 5 The ink cartridge 8 is shown in more detail. It will be appreciated that the description of the ink cartridge 8 is also applicable to the substantially similar solvent cartridge 10. The cartridge 8 has a volume of approximately 1000 ml and is suitable for being formed from a thermoplastic material by blow molding. For example, the thermoplastic material may be a high density polyethylene resin.

[0110] The cartridge 8 comprises a reservoir 80 enclosing an interior space for storing liquid, and an outlet 81 for dispensing the liquid from the reservoir 80 to the ink supply system 2. The outlet 81 may be provided with a fluid-tight seal or valve (not shown) that forms a fluid-tight engagement with the cartridge connection 7 of the ink supply system.

[0111] The storage container 80 is generally box-shaped. The interior space of the storage container 80 is defined by a first wall 82 (see FIG. Figure 5 ), the second wall 83 (see Figure 5 ) and the peripheral wall 84 (see Figure 4 ) is defined. The first wall 82 and the second wall 83 are on opposite sides of the reservoir 80. The peripheral wall 84 connects the first boundary and the second boundary of the walls 82, 83. Suitably, the peripheral wall has a width defined by the interval between the first wall 82 and the second wall 83. The area of ​​each wall 82, 83 is greater than the area of ​​the peripheral wall 84 of the reservoir 80. The width of the peripheral wall 84 is less than the width W of the reservoir 80 (for example, the width of the peripheral wall 84 may be less than 50% of the width W). Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 8 , the two face walls 82 , 83 are substantially parallel to each other.

[0112] In order to control the spacing S between the two opposite walls 82, 83 (see Figure 5 ), a reinforcement structure 85 is provided. Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown in FIG, the reinforcing structure 85 is centrally located along the length L of the reservoir, forming a waist portion of the reservoir 80. The reinforcing structure 85 preferably does not protrude beyond the outer boundaries of the reservoir 80 defined by the face walls 82, 83 and the peripheral wall 84.

[0113] like Figure 3 , 4 and 5, the reinforcement structure 85 divides the internal space of the reservoir 80 into a first chamber 86 and a second chamber 87. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As further shown in FIG. 8 , the reinforcing structure 85 provides fluid communication paths 88, 89 between the chambers 86, 87. The reinforcing structure 85 has an orifice 90 that passes through the reservoir 80.

[0114] The reinforcement structure 85 reinforces the reservoir 80 so as to reduce expansion deformation of the reservoir 80 when filled with liquid. This allows the reservoir 80 to have a high capacity. Specifically, the reinforcement structure 85 extends between the first face wall 82 and the second face wall 83, and thus prevents the interval S between the face walls 82, 83 from exceeding a predetermined upper limit. Therefore, the degree of distortion or deformation (e.g., expansion or inflation) experienced by the reservoir 80 when filled with a large volume of liquid is reduced.

[0115] In use, the cartridge 8 may be enclosed within the housing 91 to form a cartridge assembly 92. Figure 6 As shown in conjunction with the cartridge 8, the housing 91 includes two portions 91a, 91b that may be releasably coupled together by a snap fit or other suitable means. The electronic data storage device 12 associated with the cartridge 8 may be mounted within a slot 93 provided by the housing 91. The housing 91 has a shape generally similar to that of the cartridge housed therein, and may provide additional structural support to the cartridge 8, particularly the reinforcement structure 85. Thus, the housing 91 may help limit the extent of distortion or deformation experienced by the reservoir 80, such as expansion or inflation.

[0116] Of course, it will be appreciated that the cartridge 8 may take other forms, such as, for example, that described in European Patent No. 2,195,168.

[0117] The configuration and operation of the controller 4 and the electronic data storage devices 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72 will now be described in more detail.In use, the controller 4 communicates with each of the electronic storage devices 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72 in order to maintain proper operation of the printer 1. Figure 7The controller 4 is shown in more detail. It can be seen that the controller 4 includes a CPU 4a which is configured to read and execute instructions stored in a volatile memory 4b in the form of random access memory. The volatile memory 4b stores instructions executed by the CPU 4a and data used by those instructions. For example, in use, data relating to an image to be printed by the printer 1 (image data) or printer configuration or control data (print data) may be stored in the volatile memory 4b.

[0118] The controller 4 also includes a non-volatile storage device in the form of a hard disk drive 4c. Of course, other forms of non-volatile storage devices can be used. Images and / or print data can be stored on the hard disk drive 4c. The controller 4 also includes an I / O interface 4d, and peripheral devices used in conjunction with the controller 4 are connected to the I / O interface 4d. More specifically, the display 4e is configured to display output from the controller 4. For example, the display 4e can display a control interface for the printer 1. An input device is also connected to the I / O interface 4d. For example, this input device may include a touch screen interface, which is associated with the display 4e to allow the user to interact with the controller 4. The network interface 4f allows the controller 4 to be connected to a suitable computer network in order to receive data from other computer devices and transmit data to other computing devices. The CPU 4a, the volatile storage 4b, the hard disk drive 4c, the I / O interface 4d and the network interface 4g are connected together by a bus 4g.

[0119] The controller 4 also includes an authentication device 4h. The authentication device 4h is connected to the CPU 4a by a bus 4g. The authentication device 4h is a security authentication and verification device, such as, for example, the ATSHA204 CryptoAuthenication device manufactured by Atmel Corporation of the United States. The authentication device 4h is connected to the CPU 4a via a serial data connection (such as, for example, I 2 However, it will be appreciated that alternative secure authentication and verification devices may be used and may communicate with CPU 4a in a different manner (eg, via I / O interface 4d).

[0120] The I / O interface 4d allows communication between the controller 4 and the various electronic storage devices 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72. For example, this communication may use an I2C interface.

[0121] Furthermore, as described above, communication with the electronic data storage devices 12, 13 associated with the cartridges 8, 10 is provided via the service module 6. The ink cartridge connection 7 and the solvent cartridge connection 9 thus each include electrical contacts arranged to contact corresponding contacts on the engaged ink cartridge 8 or solvent cartridge 10. Said corresponding contacts on the cartridges 8, 10 allow information to be read from and / or written to the data storage devices 12, 13, respectively, via the printer connection 11 of the service module 6. Electrical connections (not shown) are also arranged between the controller 4 and each of the electronic storage devices 14, 70, 71, 72.

[0122] In use, the communication between the controller 4 and the various electronic storage devices 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72 is performed in such a way that the controller can authenticate the electronic storage device and the consumable component associated with it. The electronic storage devices are respectively security authentication and verification devices, such as, for example, the ATSHA204CryptoAuthenication device manufactured by Atmel Corporation of the United States. However, it should be recognized that alternative security authentication and verification devices can be used to provide authentication. The data stored on each of the electronic storage devices 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72 is now described in more detail.

[0123] The electronic storage device 12 (which is associated with the ink cartridge 8) stores data that may be useful in order to ensure continued optimal operation of the printer 1. The data stored on the electronic storage device 12 may generally be referred to as "print data". That is, the stored data generally relates to printing. The types of data stored within the electronic data storage device 12 are described in more detail below. Similarly, the electronic data storage device 13 associated with the solvent cartridge 10 stores data about the contained solvent (e.g., the type and amount of solvent). In addition, the electronic data storage device 14 within the service module 6 may store data about the service module 6 (e.g., authentication data).

[0124] In more detail, in an embodiment, the electronic storage device 12 stores data about the cartridge 8 itself, such as, for example, data that allows the cartridge to be uniquely identified (e.g., alphanumeric data), data specifying the volume of the cartridge, data about the relationship between the cartridge and other cartridges that can be packaged together, the shelf life of the cartridge, and the production batch number of the cartridge. The electronic storage device 12 also stores data about the ink stored in the cartridge 8, such as, for example, data about one or more of the following: the type of ink contained in the cartridge (e.g., whether the ink is a dye- and / or pigment-based ink and / or a food-grade ink); how the ink should be used (e.g., whether any form of stirring is required before use); the amount of ink stored in the cartridge 8; and the properties of the ink stored in the cartridge 8. Such properties of the ink may include (but are not limited to) the viscosity of the ink, the density of the ink, and the conductivity of the ink. The electronic storage device 12 also stores data regarding other aspects of the printer 1 and its interaction with the ink and / or cartridge 8, such as, for example, data regarding types of replenishing solvent suitable for use with the ink, data regarding print head temperature, suitable nozzle sizes for use with the ink, and data regarding types of printers with which the ink and / or cartridge are compatible.

[0125] Electronic storage device 12 may also store data regarding air recirculation within the printhead. For example, electronic storage device 12 may store data representing a default level (e.g., air flow rate or flow valve set point) for controlling air recirculation to the printhead. Electronic storage device 12 may also store a humidity threshold value representing a humidity level above which air recirculation to the printhead should be restricted for the type of ink contained in the cartridge. Electronic storage device 12 may also store a temperature threshold value representing a temperature level above which air recirculation to the printhead should be restricted for the type of ink contained in the cartridge.

[0126] It has been recognized that it is possible to provide enhanced printing performance by providing data regarding various properties of the ink contained within the cartridge 8 on an electronic storage device 12 associated with the cartridge 8. This approach avoids any risks associated with manual data entry of properties (e.g., viscosity, density, or conductivity of the ink). It should be recognized that this process of manual data entry is inherently unreliable and susceptible to user error.

[0127] Therefore, by providing the data about the ink density contained in the ink cartridge at the storage position of the electronic data storage device associated with the box, it is ensured that this data can be reliably used for the printer in use, thereby allowing the best control of the printer based on accurate ink density data. Similarly, by providing the data about the ink viscosity contained in the ink cartridge at the storage position of the electronic data storage device associated with the box, it is ensured that this data can be reliably used for the printer in use, thereby allowing the best control of the printer based on accurate ink viscosity data. In addition, the data about the ink density can be used to generate data representing the viscosity of the ink. As described above, the viscometer 52 can be used to generate the amount representing the viscosity of the ink. However, it should be recognized that the data about the ink density can also be used to generate data representing the viscosity of the ink. Specifically, the data about the ink density can be combined with the data generated by the viscometer 52 to generate data representing the viscosity of the ink. In addition, the data about the viscosity of the ink can include various coefficients, which represent the relationship between the viscosity measurement of the ink and the temperature.

[0128] Furthermore, by providing data regarding the conductivity of ink contained within the ink cartridge in a memory location of an electronic data storage device associated with the cartridge, it is ensured that this data is reliably available to the printer during use, thereby allowing optimal control of the printer based on accurate ink viscosity data.

[0129] Furthermore, it has also been recognized that by providing data regarding the cartridge geometry on the electronic data storage device 12 associated with the cartridge 8, it is possible to provide enhanced printing performance. Additionally, this approach avoids manual entry of data regarding the cartridge 8 (such as, for example, cartridge volume), which is inherently unreliable and susceptible to user error. Thus, it will be appreciated that by providing data regarding the cartridge volume at a storage location of the electronic data storage device 12 associated with the cartridge 8, it is ensured that the data is reliably available to the printer 1 during use, thereby allowing optimal control of the printer 1 based on accurate cartridge volume data, as described in more detail below.

[0130] Furthermore, it will also be appreciated that by providing data regarding the geometry of aspects of the printer 1 suitable for use with the ink contained in the cartridge 8, it is possible to provide enhanced printing performance. Additionally, with respect to geometric data (such as, for example, print head nozzle (or orifice) size), this process is inherently unreliable and susceptible to user error. Therefore, it will be appreciated that by providing data regarding printer geometry (e.g., nozzle size) at a memory location of an electronic data storage device 12 associated with the cartridge 8, it can be ensured that this data is reliably available to the printer 1 during use, thereby allowing optimal control of the printer 1 based on accurate information regarding suitable nozzle size. For example, if an incorrect nozzle size is used, the nozzle may clog, resulting in downtime while cleaning is performed and the printer settings need to be adjusted. Therefore, by (reliably) providing this printer geometry data to the printer 1, this downtime can be avoided or at least reduced.

[0131] The electronic storage device 12 also stores data on the continued use of the box 8, such as, for example, the volume of ink left in the box 8, and the number of times (insertion number) that the box 8 has been inserted into the printer. The data on the volume of ink left in the box 8 can be updated based on measurements made based on how much fluid is used during the printing operation. For example, the measurement of the volume of fluid extracted from the box 8 can be performed by any convenient and well-known technology. This measurement result can be used in combination with data indicating the volume of the box (which is stored in the electronic storage device 12) to accurately determine the volume of ink remaining in the box 8. In addition, the data can be used to provide an accurate indication of the number of operating hours, which can be estimated based on the remaining volume of ink in the box. In this way, the use of the box geometry data stored on the electronic storage device 12 can allow the operation of the printer 1 to be improved, for example, by allowing the refilling of ink to be arranged at a convenient time. For example, if it is determined that there is insufficient remaining ink for the planned production run period, the ink cartridge can be replaced before the start of a specific production run, thereby avoiding any interruption of the planned operation.

[0132] The data items described above may be stored in a write-only storage area of ​​the electronic data storage device 12 or in a read-write storage area of ​​the electronic data storage device 12. It will be appreciated that data items that are fixed when the cartridge 8 is manufactured (e.g., cartridge identification or ink type) are stored in the write-only storage area. On the other hand, data items that change during the use of the cartridge 8 (e.g., remaining ink volume, number of cartridge insertions) are stored in the read-write storage portion and are preset to initial values ​​during manufacturing.

[0133] In a similar manner, the electronic data storage device 13 stores data about the solvent cartridge 10, such as, for example, data that allows the cartridge 10 to be uniquely identified (e.g., alphanumeric data), data specifying the volume of the cartridge 10, the shelf life of the cartridge 10, and the production batch number of the cartridge 10. The electronic data storage device 13 may also store data about the solvent stored within the cartridge 10, such as, for example, the type of solvent stored within the cartridge 10. The electronic data storage device 13 also stores data about the ongoing use of the cartridge 10, such as, for example, the volume of solvent remaining within the cartridge 10, and the number of times the cartridge 10 has been inserted into a printer, which data may be stored in the read-write portion of the electronic data storage device 13.

[0134] When the ink supply system 2 is first used, data from the electronic data storage device 12 and / or the electronic data storage device 13 is read to determine the type of ink and / or solvent being used. Subsequently, when a new ink cartridge or solvent cartridge is used within the printer 1, the data stored on the respective electronic data storage devices 12, 13 of the ink cartridge 8 and the solvent cartridge 10 may be checked by the controller 4 to ensure compatibility. In this way, when the ink supply system 2 is used with a particular type of ink, the controller 4 ensures that the printer 1 is operable (i.e., ensures that ink is permitted to flow from the ink cartridge 8 and / or solvent is permitted to flow from the solvent cartridge 10) only if the data stored on the electronic data storage devices 12, 13 associated with the ink cartridge 8 and / or the solvent cartridge 10 indicates compatibility.

[0135] As briefly described above, the electronic data storage device 14 within the service module 6 can store identification data. The electronic data storage device 14 also stores other types of data, such as identification data regarding the types of inks and / or solvents that the service module 6 can be used with (or has previously been used with), data indicating technical information about the service module itself (e.g., the service module type), data indicating the type of flushing pump 47, data indicating the type of valves 48, 49, 50, 51, data regarding characteristics of the gas sensor 87 (e.g., calibration or offset data), the model number of the service module 6 or the inkjet printer 1, the serial number, the date of manufacture, the expiration date, the date of first use, the number of hours the service module 6 has been used in the inkjet printer 1, the useful life, etc.

[0136] The electronic data storage device 14 may also include a writable data portion. The inkjet printer 1 may write to the electronic data storage device 14 to indicate that the service module 6 has reached the end of its useful life so that the service module is no longer usable with the inkjet printer 1 or any other printer.

[0137] In a manner similar to electronic storage devices 12, 13, 14, electronic storage device 70 associated with filter module 25 also stores data associated with filter module 25. For example, in an embodiment, electronic storage device 70 stores data regarding the filter's manufacturing date and grade (in terms of particle size). Electronic storage device 70 also stores data regarding the use of the filter, such as, for example, the number of insertions, and the type of ink with which the filter was used. Inkjet printer 1 may write to electronic data storage device 70 to indicate that filter module 25 has reached the end of its useful life, such that filter module 25 can no longer be used in inkjet printer 1 or any other printer.

[0138] An electronic storage device 71 associated with the printhead 3 stores data about the printhead 3. For example, in an embodiment, the electronic storage device 71 stores data about the printhead type and geometry (e.g., printhead build up sensor presence, printhead nozzle size, printhead deflector type, printhead deflector size, printhead deflector gap, last chance filter details (if present), printhead drop generation frequency, printhead manufacturing date). The electronic storage device 71 also stores data about the use of the printhead 3, such as, for example, the number of insertions, and the cumulative total number of drops deflected by the printhead during use. The inkjet printer 1 may write to the electronic data storage device 71 to indicate that the printhead 3 has reached the end of its useful life, so that the printhead 3 can no longer be used in the inkjet printer 1 or any other printer.

[0139] The electronic storage device 72 associated with the ink storage system 5 stores data about the ink storage system 5 itself, such as, for example, regarding the manufacture and assembly of the various components of the ink storage system 5 (e.g., the ink management board). More generally, the electronic storage device 72 may store data about the ink supply system 2 and the printer 1 as a whole. For example, in an embodiment, the electronic storage device 72 stores data about the use of the ink storage system 5, such as, for example, the number of hours the ink storage system 5 has been used, data about the number of hours the ink pump 21 has been used.

[0140] For example, the electronic storage device 72 may also store data regarding the operation of the ink cartridge 8, the solvent cartridge 10, the service module 6, the filter module 25, and the print head 3. In an embodiment, the electronic storage device 72 stores data (e.g., alphanumeric data) that allows the ink and / or solvent cartridge to be uniquely identified, data specifying the volume of the ink cartridge and / or solvent cartridge, data regarding the relationship between the ink cartridge and other ink cartridges that can be packaged together, the shelf life of the ink cartridge, and the production batch number of the cartridge. The electronic storage device 72 also stores data regarding the ink stored in the cartridge 8, such as, for example, data regarding one or more of the following: the type of ink contained in the cartridge (e.g., whether the ink is a dye-based and / or pigment-based ink and / or a food-grade ink); how the ink should be used (e.g., whether any form of agitation is required before use); the amount of ink stored in the cartridge 8; and the properties of the ink stored in the cartridge 8. Such properties of the ink may include (but are not limited to) the viscosity of the ink, the density of the ink, and the conductivity of the ink. The electronic storage device 72 also stores data regarding other aspects of the printer 1 and its interaction with the ink and / or cartridge 8, such as, for example, data regarding the type of replenishing solvent suitable for use with the ink, data regarding print head temperature and suitable nozzle sizes for use with the ink.

[0141] It will be appreciated that data stored by one of the above-mentioned electronic storage devices 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72 may be a copy of data stored on another of the electronic storage devices. For example, where the electronic storage device 72 stores data about the ink cartridge 8, the data may have been copied from the relevant storage location of the electronic storage device 12.

[0142] In general, the electronic data storage device 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72 may include security features such that only suitable or recognized components (e.g., consumable components) may be used with the inkjet printer 1, and / or such that only suitable or recognized printers or devices have full access to data stored within the electronic data storage device 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72 for use with the electronic data storage device 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72.

[0143] It will be appreciated that where components are expected to have a useful life that is less than the useful life of the printer 1, or where they may be replaced for any reason, the electronic data storage devices associated with those components may allow automatic configuration changes to be made as needed to ensure continued operation of the printer 1. Specifically, where parameters associated with a component (e.g., cartridge capacity, remaining ink volume, filter life, or filter usage data) may differ between a particular component and a replacement for that particular component, data regarding the parameters may be used to adjust the configuration of the printer in some manner (e.g., record usage and provide appropriate alerts). Thus, by providing data to a printer 1 as described above, it is possible to reduce reliance on manual data entry (which, as set forth above, is inherently unreliable) and automatically reconfigure the printer 1 as needed.

[0144] In an embodiment, compatibility between components, such as the nozzles of a newly installed printhead and the ink contained in an ink cartridge, may be checked. It will be appreciated that such compatibility is necessary for optimal operation of the printer, and by controlling the printer to prevent operation with incompatible components, damage to the printer (or its components) may be prevented.

[0145] In addition, by providing an electronic data storage device associated with a plurality of ink supply system components (particularly where those components may be provided in different varieties), it will be appreciated that the potential for automatic configuration is enhanced. The use of automatic configuration achieved in this manner allows components to be provided in different varieties without significantly increasing the risk of printer failure. That is, it may be desirable to provide a plurality of components, wherein different components may be particularly suitable for a particular printer based on properties (such as, for example, expected usage, environmental conditions, maintenance requirements, etc.), rather than providing a single variety of components that are suitable for all printers and all uses. However, in the absence of an automatic configuration being feasible, individual deviations from a standard component may result in a failure if the relevant data segments are manually entered into the printer. Thus, by providing an electronic data storage device associated with each of a number of printer components, the reliable operation of the printer may be improved.

[0146] In some embodiments, data stored in the electronics 71 associated with the print head 3 may provide information about the type of print nozzles in the print head 3 and / or the type of deflector plates in the print head 3. This information may be used by the controller to ensure that the printer 1 operates correctly according to those subcomponents (e.g., by providing appropriate charging and stimulation signals and / or ink pressures). For example, the modulation signal applied to the nozzle has a fixed frequency for some nozzle types and a variable frequency for other nozzle types. An appropriate nozzle modulation algorithm for generating the modulation signal applied to the nozzle may therefore be selected based on the data about the type of print nozzle.

[0147] In this way, the print head 3 may be replaced by an alternative print head of a different type or configuration and any risk of incorrect operation due to incorrect configuration settings may be minimised.

[0148] In some embodiments, data indicative of the type of ink contained within ink cartridge 8 obtained from electronic storage device 12 may be used in combination with sensor data received by controller 4 from one or more sensors contained within printer 1 to optimize or improve printer control.

[0149] For example, the ink type data may be combined with the temperature data and / or humidity data in order to maintain correct operation. For example, some types of ink are more hygroscopic than other inks, so the printer may be arranged to monitor temperature and / or humidity. Depending on the detected temperature and / or humidity level, the air recirculation to the print head may be appropriately controlled. For example, if the temperature and / or humidity level exceeds a corresponding threshold level (the threshold level may be stored on the electronic storage device 12), the intake of new air into the system may be reduced. In this way, the control of air recirculation may be based on a combination of the monitored temperature, the monitored humidity level, and the data associated with the ink contained in the cartridge.

[0150] Now refer to Figure 8 Detailed description of the authentication process, which is performed by the printer 1 to authenticate a consumable component (e.g., a cartridge 8 having an electronic storage device 12) and utilizes the security features briefly described above. At step S1, the cartridge 8 is physically connected to the connection 7 of the service module 6. At step S2, the controller 4 performs an authentication process, during which a determination is made as to whether the cartridge 8 is considered authentic. If the cartridge 8 is considered authentic, the process proceeds to step S3, where a normal printing operation is performed. If the cartridge 8 is not considered authentic, the process proceeds to step S4, where a printing operation is prevented and the user is notified that the installed cartridge 8 is not a authentic cartridge. If a new consumable component (e.g., a cartridge, a filter module, a print head, a service module) is detected, the process begins again at step S1.

[0151] The authentication process performed at step S2 is arranged to ensure that only authentic consumable components are allowed to be used with the printer 1. The authentication process utilizes a message authentication code (MAC) generated by the electronic storage device (e.g., electronic storage device 12) and this MAC is compared with a MAC generated by an authentication device 4h associated with the controller 4. If the two MACs match, then authentication is complete, if not, then the consumable component is not considered authentic.

[0152] The MAC itself can be generated in many ways, and can be based in some ways on a user-defined secret, a static internal key, or a challenge provided by the authentication device 4h. In addition, each electronic storage device has a unique serial number (some of which can be configured to be related to a specific manufacturer). The MAC is generated by providing data to a secure hash algorithm (SHA-256) engine contained in the authentication device 4h or the electronic storage device. The generated MAC includes a 256-bit code. Authentication can be based on various challenge techniques, such as, for example, fixed challenge authentication, unique challenge authentication, random challenge authentication, or diversified key authentication.

[0153] In one embodiment, a diversified key authentication is used. Fig. 9 To describe the processing steps performed to provide this authentication, and as described above with reference to Figure 8 The processing steps are performed during step S2. The processing begins at step S10, where the controller 1 identifies the consumable component (e.g., by reading a serial number stored in a storage location of the electronic storage device 12). The processing then moves to step S11, where a cryptographic calculation is performed in the authentication device 4h based on the obtained serial number and the root key securely stored in the authentication device 4h. The cryptographic calculation copies the diversified key stored in the electronic storage device 12.

[0154] Processing then proceeds to step S12, where the authentication device 4h generates a random number challenge. This challenge, along with the diversified key generated at step S11, is passed to the SHA-256 engine within the authentication device 4h, which generates a response (or digest) at processing step S13. Processing then proceeds to step S14, where the random number challenge is passed to the electronic storage device 12 within the consumable component. At processing step S15, the SHA-256 engine within the electronic storage device 12 receives the random number challenge, and also receives a version of the diversified key stored within the electronic storage device 12, and generates a response (or digest). At processing step S16, the generated response is returned to the authentication device 4h, and processing then proceeds to step S17, where the authentication device 4h performs a comparison to determine if the response generated by the electronic storage device 12 matches the response (digest) generated within the authentication device 4h. If the responses match, authentication is successful, and processing returns to step S17. Figure 8 On the other hand, if the responses do not match, then the authentication is unsuccessful and the process returns to step S3. Figure 8 Step S4.

[0155] Of course, it will be appreciated that the authentication process described above is one way in which authentication may be performed, and alternative techniques may be used. In addition, the authentication process may be selected based on the type of security authentication and verification device selected, or vice versa.

[0156] Once authentication is (successfully) performed, other data items may be retrieved from storage locations within the authenticated electronic storage device 12 and used to control the operation of the printer 1 as described in more detail above.

[0157] A similar authentication process may be performed by the printer 1 to authenticate each installed consumable component. Authentication may subsequently be performed at any convenient interval (eg, at startup or upon configuration change).

[0158] It will be appreciated that some data items stored within the electronic storage devices 12, 13, 14, 70, 71, 72 are expected to remain unchanged after manufacture and therefore do not require editing. However, as described above, some data items (e.g., data regarding the continued use of the cartridge, such as, for example, the volume of solvent remaining within the cartridge) may change during use and therefore may be stored in the read-write portion of the electronic data storage device 12.

[0159] However, the controller 4 and the electronic data storage device 12 communicate in such a manner as to ensure that only authorized devices (e.g., a printer or authorized manufacturing equipment) have write access to those data items, rather than allowing unfettered read and write access to such data items that may be altered during operation. It has been recognized that if consumable components (e.g., cartridges 8, 10, filter modules 25, service modules 6) that are required for use with the printer 1 are not protected in this manner, it is possible that data stored on the electronic data storage device of the consumable component may be modified so that it does not correctly reflect the contents or state of such component, and for those components that are not suitable for use with the printer, reducing print quality and possibly causing damage to the printer. Therefore, data writing to predetermined storage areas within the electronic data storage device 12 is permitted only when the electronic data storage device 12 is connected to an authorized printer 1 (or another authorized device—such as during manufacturing).

[0160] It will be appreciated that a similar process may also be used to protect predetermined storage areas within electronic data storage devices 13, 14, 70, 71 associated with various other consumable devices.

[0161] It will also be understood that if a consumable component has reached the end of its useful life, it should be replaced. For example, the filter module 25 has a lifespan in hours (e.g., approximately 5000 hours). Any use beyond this duration may result in an increased risk of the filter becoming blocked and failing to provide a correct ink flow to the printhead. Similarly, for example, the service module 6 may have a lifespan in hours of use (e.g., approximately 12,000 hours). Use beyond this time may increase the risk of ink blockage, pump failure, or other failure modes.

[0162] Ink and solvent cartridges may be considered to be at the end of their useful life when the fluid contained therein has been exhausted. Of course, it will be appreciated that refilling the cartridge may result in incompatible inks (or solvents) being used with the printer 1, and associated problems (e.g., contamination of fluid lines or other consumable components, and consequently degraded printing). Thus, by preventing writing to particular data storage areas by unauthorized devices, it is possible to prevent any such problems arising from the use of incompatible inks or solvents.

[0163] Therefore, the printer 1 may also be configured to become inoperable in the event that a data item stored in an electronic data storage device associated with a consumable component indicates that the consumable component has reached the end of its useful life. If it were possible to overwrite the relevant data item in the electronic data storage device to indicate that further use of the consumable component is possible, the consumable component may be accidentally used when it is in a state that may cause damage to other system components. Therefore, by providing a data storage area in an electronic storage device that can be written only by authorized devices (e.g., the printer 1), it is possible to prevent such improper operation and therefore reduce the risk of damage to the printer 1 (or its component parts / other consumable components) and provide more reliable printing performance.

[0164] In some embodiments, the information stored on any of the electronic data storage devices 12, 13, 14, 70, 71 may be stored in an encrypted form. This may prevent access (even read access) to the data by unauthorized devices.

[0165] In the foregoing description, reference has been made to Figure 7 The controller 4 described herein has been characterized. Various functions of the controller 4 have been characterized. It will be appreciated that the controller 4 may be implemented in any convenient manner, including as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or a microprocessor connected to a memory storing processor readable instructions, the instructions arranged to control the printer, and the microprocessor arranged to read and execute the instructions stored in the memory. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the controller 4 may be provided by a plurality of controller devices, each of which is responsible for performing some of the control functions characterized for the controller 4.

[0166] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it will be appreciated that the present invention may be practiced in a manner different from that described, and that the embodiments described are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. Various modifications may be made to the embodiments described without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A continuous inkjet printer comprising a controller, the continuous inkjet printer being configured to receive: a removable module comprising an electronic data storage device storing data regarding the operation of the removable module, and at least one component selected from the group consisting of: a filter, a fluid damper, a valve, a pump, a gas sensor, a drop generator, a piezoelectric oscillator, a charging electrode, a deflection electrode, and a gutter; and at least one box; The controller is configured as follows: receiving data from the electronic data storage device; and Operation of the continuous inkjet printer is controlled based on the received data.

2. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 1, wherein: The removable module is different from the at least one box.

3. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 1, wherein: The removable module comprises a filter module and the at least one component comprises a filter and / or a fluid dampener.

4. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 1, wherein: The removable module includes a service module, and the at least one component includes one or more of a valve, a pump, and a gas sensor.

5. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 1, wherein: The removable module includes a printing module, and the at least one component includes one or more of an ink drop generator, a piezoelectric oscillator, a charging electrode, a deflection electrode, and a groove.

6. The continuous inkjet printer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: Data regarding the operation of the removable module includes data regarding the status of the removable module and / or components of the removable module.

7. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 6, wherein: The data regarding the status of the removable module and / or components of the removable module include data representing the number of hours the removable module and / or components of the removable module have been in use.

8. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 6, wherein: The data regarding the status of the removable module and / or components of the removable module includes data indicating that the removable module and / or components of the removable module have exceeded a predetermined usage limit.

9. The continuous inkjet printer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The continuous inkjet printer is configured to receive a plurality of removable modules, each of the plurality of removable modules comprising a corresponding electronic data storage device storing data regarding the operation of a corresponding one of the plurality of removable modules, each of the plurality of removable modules further comprising a component selected from the group consisting of: a filter, a fluid damper, a valve, a pump, a gas sensor, a drop generator, a piezoelectric oscillator, a charging electrode, a deflection electrode and a groove.

10. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 9, wherein: The controller is configured to: receiving data from each of the electronic data storage devices; and Operation of the continuous inkjet printer is controlled based on the received data.

11. The continuous inkjet printer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: Controlling the operation of the continuous inkjet printer based on the received data includes configuring the operation of the continuous inkjet printer based on the received data.

12. The continuous inkjet printer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The at least one cartridge also includes an electronic data storage device.

13. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 12, wherein: The controller is configured to: receiving data from said electronic data storage device associated with said at least one cartridge; and Operation of the continuous inkjet printer is controlled based on the received data.

14. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 13, wherein: Controlling the operation of the continuous inkjet printer based on the received data further comprises: receiving sensor data; and The operation of the continuous inkjet printer is controlled based on the sensor data.

15. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 14, wherein: The sensor data includes temperature and / or humidity sensor data.

16. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 12, wherein: The controller is configured to: receiving data from the electronic data storage device of the at least one cartridge and the electronic data storage device of the removable module; and Operation of the continuous inkjet printer is controlled based on the received data.

17. The continuous inkjet printer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The electronic data storage device of the removable module and / or the cartridge is configured to allow data write access to predetermined data storage portions only by authorized devices; as well as The electronic data storage device is configured to determine whether the controller is an authorized device and to allow data write access to the predetermined data storage portion by the controller if, but only if, the controller is an authorized device.

18. The continuous inkjet printer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: the received data from the electronic data storage device storing data regarding the operation of the removable module includes data representing properties of inkjet printing nozzles associated with a printhead of the continuous inkjet printer; as well as Controlling operation of the continuous inkjet printer based on the received data includes generating modulation signals for the inkjet printing nozzles based on the received data.

19. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 3, wherein: The electronic data storage device stores data regarding filter manufacturing date and grade.

20. The continuous inkjet printer according to claim 3 or 19, wherein: The electronic data storage device stores data regarding usage of the filter, and wherein the data regarding usage of the filter includes at least one selected from: a number of insertions; and a type of ink with which the filter is used.

21. A removable module for use in the continuous inkjet printer according to claim 1, The removable module includes an electronic data storage device storing data regarding the operation of the removable module, and at least one component selected from the group consisting of: a filter, a fluid damper, a valve, a pump, a gas sensor, a drop generator, a piezoelectric oscillator, a charging electrode, a deflection electrode, and a groove; in, The removable module is configured to transmit data to a controller of the continuous inkjet printer so that the controller can control the operation of the continuous inkjet printer based on the transmitted data.

22. A removable module according to claim 21, wherein Data regarding the operation of the removable module includes data regarding the status of the removable module and / or components of the removable module.

23. The removable module of claim 22, wherein: Data regarding the status of the removable module and / or components of the removable module include: data representing the number of hours the removable module and / or components of the removable module have been in use; or Data indicating that the removable module and / or components of the removable module have exceeded a predetermined usage limit.

24. The removable module of claim 21, wherein: The removable module comprises a filter module and the at least one component comprises a filter and / or a fluid dampener.

25. The removable module of claim 24, wherein: The electronic data storage device stores data regarding filter manufacturing date and grade; and / or The electronic data storage device stores data regarding usage of the filter, and wherein the data regarding usage of the filter includes at least one selected from: a number of insertions; and a type of ink with which the filter is used.

26. A removable module according to any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein: The electronic data storage device of the removable module is configured to allow data write access to predetermined data storage portions only by authorized devices.

27. A method of operating a continuous inkjet printer, comprising: receiving a removable module comprising an electronic data storage device storing data regarding operation of the removable module and at least one component selected from the group consisting of: a filter, a fluid damper, a valve, a pump, a gas sensor, a drop generator, a piezoelectric oscillator, a charge electrode, a deflection electrode, and a gutter; receiving at least one box; receiving, by a controller of the continuous inkjet printer, data from an electronic data storage device of the removable module; as well as Operation of the continuous inkjet printer is controlled based on the received data.

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