Ink sac, ink supply device and inkjet printer

Abstract

The present invention discloses an ink sac, an ink supply device, and an inkjet printer. A first inlet of the ink sac is connected to a first ink chamber, a second inlet is connected to a second ink chamber, and the first and second ink chambers are respectively connected to outlets. The first inlet is used to input pressurized ink into the first ink chamber, which outputs the input pressurized ink to a nozzle through the outlet. The second inlet is used to input inkjet printing ink into the second ink chamber, which outputs the input inkjet printing ink to the nozzle through the outlet. The ink supply device includes a nozzle and a pressurized ink generating device, which is connected to the nozzle and is used to supply pressurized ink to the nozzle. The technical solution of the present invention can utilize pressure to flush out blockages in the nozzle when the nozzle becomes clogged, requiring minimal modification to existing inkjet printers and offering strong applicability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an ink bag, an ink supply device and a spray printer. Background Art

[0002] Large inkjet printers, such as photo printers and inkjet plotters, can experience nozzle blockage during use, which can affect the quality of finished images. Because large inkjet printers typically have multiple nozzles arranged in an array, nozzle blockage requires cleaning. Traditional nozzle cleaning methods often fail to achieve a successful cleanup in one attempt. Repeated cleaning wastes both time and ink. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One of the purposes of the present invention is to overcome the deficiencies in the prior art and to provide an ink supply device that can conveniently clean a clogged nozzle.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention is implemented through the following technical solutions:

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an ink bag, which is applied to an ink supply device having a nozzle, and the ink bag includes a first inlet, a second inlet, a first ink chamber, a second ink chamber and an outlet; the first inlet is connected to the first ink chamber, the second inlet is connected to the second ink chamber, and the first ink chamber and the second ink chamber are respectively connected to the outlet; the first inlet is used to input pressure ink into the first ink chamber, and the first ink chamber is used to output the input pressure ink to the nozzle through the outlet; the second inlet is used to input inkjet ink into the second ink chamber, and the second ink chamber is used to output the input inkjet ink to the nozzle through the outlet.

[0006] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first ink chamber has a first input tube and a first filter chamber; the first input tube connects the first inlet and the first filter chamber, and the first filter chamber is connected to the outlet; the first input tube is used to transfer the input pressure ink to the first filter chamber; the first filter chamber is used to filter the input pressure ink and transfer it to the outlet.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second ink chamber has a second input tube and an ink storage chamber; the second input tube connects the ink storage chamber and the second inlet, and the ink storage chamber connects the first filter chamber and the outlet; the second input tube is used to transfer the input inkjet ink to the ink storage chamber; the ink storage chamber is used to transfer the pressure ink input from the first filter chamber to the outlet, and transfer the inkjet ink input from the second input tube to the outlet.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the ink bag further has a partition having a first side and a second side opposite to each other, the first input tube and the first filter chamber are arranged on the first side, and the ink storage chamber is arranged on the second side.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second ink chamber further has an ink pump chamber, which is connected to the second input tube, and the ink pump chamber is connected to the ink storage chamber through an ink pump hole, and the ink pump switch is provided at the ink pump hole; when the ink pump switch is turned on, the ink pump chamber is connected to the ink storage chamber, and the ink pump chamber is used to pump the inkjet ink input from the second input tube into the ink storage chamber through the ink pump hole; when the ink pump switch is turned off, the ink pump chamber is not connected to the ink storage chamber, and the ink pump switch blocks the ink pump hole.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the ink bag further comprises a partition having a first side and a second side opposite to each other, the ink pump chamber is arranged on the first side, and the ink storage chamber is arranged on the second side.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the ink pump switch includes a blocking member and a telescopic member, one end of the telescopic member is fixed in the ink pump cavity, and the other end of the telescopic member is connected to the blocking member.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the blocking member includes an upper blocking member, a lower blocking member and a connecting rod, the connecting rod connects the upper blocking member and the lower blocking member, and the telescopic member is connected to the upper blocking member and / or the lower blocking member.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the telescopic member is a hydraulic telescopic rod or an elastic member.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first ink chamber further has a first output tube, which connects the first filter chamber and the ink storage chamber, and the first output tube is used to transfer the pressurized ink in the first filter chamber to the ink storage chamber.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first ink chamber further has a first output tube, which connects the first filter chamber and the outlet, and is used to transfer the pressurized ink in the first filter chamber to the outlet.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the ink bag further has a partition having a first side and a second side opposite to each other, the first input tube and the first filter chamber are arranged on the first side, and the first output tube is arranged on the second side.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the outlet includes a first outlet and a second outlet, the first outlet is communicated with the first ink chamber, and the second outlet is communicated with the second ink chamber.

[0018] In a second aspect, the present invention provides an ink supply device, which includes a nozzle and a pressure ink generating device, wherein the pressure ink generating device is connected to the nozzle and is used to deliver pressure ink to the nozzle.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the ink supply device further includes an ink sac and an ink cartridge; the ink cartridge is used to contain inkjet ink; the ink sac is connected to the ink cartridge, and the inkjet ink in the ink cartridge is transported to the ink sac; the ink sac is connected to the nozzle, and the inkjet ink in the ink sac is transported to the nozzle.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the pressure ink generating device is connected to the nozzle through a first connecting pipe, and the first connecting pipe is provided with a first three-way valve, which connects the ink bag, the pressure ink generating device and the nozzle.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the ink supply device further includes an ink cartridge and an ink bag as described in the first aspect; the first inlet of the ink bag is connected to the pressure ink generating device, and the pressure ink in the pressure ink generating device is transported to the first ink chamber of the ink bag; the ink cartridge is used to hold inkjet ink; the second inlet of the ink bag is connected to the ink cartridge, and the inkjet ink in the ink cartridge is transported to the second ink chamber of the ink bag; the nozzle is connected to the outlet of the ink bag, and the pressure ink in the first ink chamber and the inkjet ink in the second ink chamber are transported to the nozzle through the outlet.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the pressure ink generating device includes an ink pumping part and the ink cartridge, the ink pumping part is connected to the ink cartridge; the ink cartridge is connected to a second connecting pipe, the second connecting pipe is connected to a second three-way valve; the second three-way valve is connected to the first inlet through a third connecting pipe; the second three-way valve is connected to the second inlet through a fourth connecting pipe.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a first ink diverter is provided on the third connecting tube; a second ink diverter is provided on the fourth connecting tube; the first ink diverter is connected to the first inlet; and the second ink diverter is connected to the second inlet.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the ink pumping component is a pump or an air compressor.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the pump is an air pump or a liquid pump.

[0026] In a third aspect, the present invention provides an inkjet printer comprising the ink supply device as described in the second aspect.

[0027] The ink cartridge, ink supply device, and inkjet printer of the present invention deliver pressurized ink to the nozzle. This allows the nozzle to flush out any blockages, allowing for smooth and unimpeded ink delivery. A pressure ink generator connected to the ink cartridge conveniently generates pressurized ink, which is then pressed into the nozzle to flush the nozzle. Using a pressure ink generator, such as an air pump, liquid pump, or air compressor, requires minimal modification to existing inkjet printers and offers broad applicability. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The present invention is described with the aid of the following drawings:

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of the ink bag of Example 1 of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 2 2 is another structural schematic diagram of the ink bag of Example 1 of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 3 2 is another structural schematic diagram of the ink bag of Example 1 of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 4 2 is another structural schematic diagram of the ink bag of Example 1 of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of the ink bag of Example 1 of the present invention viewed from a first side;

[0034] Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram of the ink bag of Example 1 of the present invention viewed from the second side;

[0035] Figure 7 2 is another structural schematic diagram of the ink bag of Example 1 of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 8 is another structural schematic diagram of the ink bag of Example 1 of the present invention viewed from the first side;

[0037] Figure 9 2 is another structural schematic diagram of the ink bag of Example 1 of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 10 is another structural schematic diagram of the ink bag of Example 1 of the present invention viewed from the first side;

[0039] Figure 11yes Figure 10 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0040] Figure 12 2 is another structural schematic diagram of the ink bag of Example 1 of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 13 1 is a structural schematic diagram of an ink supply device according to embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 14 is another structural schematic diagram of the ink supply device of Example 2 of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 15 1 is a structural schematic diagram of an ink supply device according to embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 16 is another structural schematic diagram of the ink supply device of Example 3 of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 17 is another structural schematic diagram of the ink supply device of Example 3 of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 18 1 is a structural schematic diagram of an inkjet printer according to embodiment 4 of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] In order to better understand the technical solution of the present application, the embodiments of the present application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] It should be clear that the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative work are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0049] Example 1

[0050] Embodiment 1 of the present invention discloses an ink sac 100 for use in an ink supply device having a nozzle. The ink sac 100 can deliver inkjet ink, enabling the nozzle to spray ink of a specified color according to user needs. For example, if the user requests red ink, the ink sac 100 delivers red ink to the nozzle, which then sprays the red ink onto a specified object or location. The ink sac 100 can also deliver pressurized ink. If the nozzle is clogged with dust or deposited ink, the pressurized ink can dislodge the clogged dust or ink through pressure, allowing the nozzle to resume normal ink delivery.

[0051] like Figure 1As shown, the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1 includes two inlets, namely a first inlet 110 and a second inlet 120, two ink chambers, namely a first ink chamber 130 and a second ink chamber 140, and an outlet 150. The first inlet 110 is connected to the first ink chamber 130, the second inlet 120 is connected to the second ink chamber 140, and the first ink chamber 130 and the second ink chamber 140 are respectively connected to the outlet 150. The first inlet 110, the first ink chamber 130, and the outlet 150 form a first passage L1 for conveying pressurized ink. The first inlet 110 is used to input pressurized ink into the first ink chamber 130, and the first ink chamber 130 is used to output the input pressurized ink to the nozzle through the outlet 150. The pressurized ink is used to use the pressure to dislodge blockages in the nozzle, allowing the nozzle to resume unimpeded ink flow. The second inlet 120, the second ink chamber 140, and the outlet 150 form a second passage L2 for conveying inkjet ink. The second inlet 120 is used to input inkjet ink into the second ink chamber 140, which then outputs the input inkjet ink to the printhead through the outlet 150. The inkjet ink is then used to print the pattern. The first and second ink chambers 130, 140 output pressurized ink and inkjet ink through the common outlet 150. An automatic switch is provided within the second ink chamber 140. When the inkjet ink in the second ink chamber 140 reaches a predetermined level, the automatic switch closes, stopping the ink supply to the second ink chamber 140. When the inkjet ink in the second ink chamber 140 decreases to a predetermined level, the automatic switch opens, resuming the ink supply to the second ink chamber 140. The structure of the automatic switch is conventional and will not be further described here. The first and second passages L1 and L2 can be connected. Before the pressure ink or inkjet ink is delivered to the outlet 150, the first and second passages L1 and L2 merge into a single passage, and both the pressure ink and inkjet ink flow from this passage into the outlet 150. Alternatively, the first and second passages L1 and L2 can be disconnected. Before the pressure ink or inkjet ink is delivered to the outlet 150, the first and second passages L1 and L2 do not merge, and the first and second passages L1 and L2 independently deliver ink to the outlet 150. The first inlet 110 and the second inlet 120 can be hollow conduits such as delivery tubes, or on-off conduits such as one-way valves. The first and second ink chambers 130 and 140 can be non-deformable cavities separated by the inner wall of the ink sac 100 that can store and deliver ink, or they can be deformable cavities within the ink sac 100 that can deliver ink through squeezing or pumping. A device such as a switch valve can be provided at the outlet 150 to control the opening and closing of the outlet 150, or a device such as a diverter valve can be provided to control the type of ink output. For example, when red ink needs to be output, the diverter valve will output the red ink in the inkjet ink. When pressure ink needs to be output to flush the blockage, the diverter valve will output the pressure ink.A sealing ring can also be provided at the outlet 150. The material of the sealing ring can be sealing plastic, sealing metal ring or sealing rubber ring. When the ink bag 100 is connected to the nozzle, the sealing ring can seal the passage between the outlet 150 and the nozzle to avoid leakage during pressure ink output.

[0052] like Figure 2 As shown, in the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1, the first ink chamber 130 includes a first input tube 131 and a first filter chamber 132. The first input tube 131 connects the first inlet 110 and the first filter chamber 132, which in turn connects to the outlet 150. The first input tube 131 can extend linearly or nonlinearly. Linear extension refers to a straight tube, while nonlinear extension refers to a curved tube or a combination of multiple curved sections. The first input tube 131 is used to transmit pressurized ink to the first filter chamber 132. A filter is provided in the first filter chamber 132 to filter the pressurized ink before transmitting it to the outlet 150. After the pressurized ink enters the first filter chamber 132, the filter removes impurities, garbage, and large particles of ink agglomerated in the ink, resulting in cleaner ink and smaller ink particles delivered to the outlet 150.

[0053] like Figure 3 As shown, in the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1, the first ink chamber 130 further includes a first output tube 133, which connects the first filter chamber 132 and the outlet 150. The first output tube 133 can extend linearly or nonlinearly. Linear extension refers to a straight tube, while nonlinear extension refers to a curved tube or a combination of multiple curved straight tubes. The first output tube 133 is used to transfer pressurized ink in the first filter chamber 132 to the outlet 150. The first output tube 133 increases the flow rate of the pressurized ink, allowing the pressurized ink reaching the outlet 150 to exert greater pressure on blockages, making it easier to dislodge the blockage.

[0054] like Figure 4As shown, in the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1, the second ink chamber 140 includes a second input tube 141 and an ink storage chamber 142. The second input tube 141 connects the ink storage chamber 142 with the second inlet 120, while the ink storage chamber 142 connects the first filter chamber 132 with the outlet 150. The second input tube 141 can extend linearly or nonlinearly. Linear extension refers to a straight second output tube, while nonlinear extension refers to a curved second output tube or a combination of multiple curved straight tube sections. The second input tube 141 is used to transfer ink to the ink storage chamber 142. The ink storage chamber 142 is the largest chamber in the ink bag 100 and is used to store ink. This allows it to hold as much ink as possible, minimizing the number of times ink is added to the ink bag 100, thereby reducing wear and tear. The ink storage chamber 142 can be square, polygonal, circular, or a special shape. The ink reservoir 142 communicates with the first filter chamber 132 and is used to transfer pressurized ink from the first filter chamber 132 to the outlet 150. Specifically, in the first passage L1, pressurized ink exits the first filter chamber 132, passes through the ink reservoir 142, and is then transferred to the outlet 150. Before the pressurized ink is discharged from the outlet 150, the initial velocity of the pressurized ink upon entering the ink reservoir 142 is utilized to increase the acceleration distance within the ink reservoir 142. This increases the flow rate of the pressurized ink entering the outlet 150, thereby increasing the impact pressure upon entering the nozzle, thereby more easily dislodging obstructions. Furthermore, the ink reservoir 142 is used to transfer ink from the second input tube 141 to the outlet 150. When the nozzle is unobstructed, the ink in the ink reservoir 142 can be expelled from the ink reservoir 142 through squeezing or pumping, and then enters the nozzle through the outlet 150 for printing.

[0055] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1 also includes a partition 160. The entire edge of the partition 160 is connected to the edge of the ink bag 100. The two largest surfaces of the partition 160 are parallel to the largest surfaces of the ink bag 100, or the angle between them is acute. The partition 160 has a first side 161 and a second side 162 that oppose each other. The first input tube 131 and the first filter chamber 132 are located on the first side 161, and the ink storage chamber 142 is located on the second side 162. The provision of the partition 160 maximizes space utilization within the ink bag 100, allowing for a compact arrangement of the first input tube 131, the first filter chamber 132, and the ink storage chamber 142, thereby reducing the size of the ink bag 100 and achieving miniaturization. In an alternative embodiment, the ink bag 100 is a closed box, and the partition 160 divides the ink bag 100 into two accommodating chambers. The first input tube 131 and the first filter chamber 132 are disposed in the accommodating chamber corresponding to the first side 161 of the partition 160, and the ink storage chamber 142 is disposed in the accommodating chamber corresponding to the second side 162 of the partition 160. In an alternative embodiment, the ink bag 100 is an open frame, and the partition 160 divides the ink bag 100 into two accommodating areas. The first input tube 131 and the first filter chamber 132 are disposed in the accommodating area corresponding to the first side 161 of the partition 160, and the ink storage chamber 142 is disposed in the accommodating area corresponding to the second side 162 of the partition 160.

[0056] like Figure 7 As shown, in the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1, the first output tube 133 of the first ink chamber 130 connects the first filter chamber 132 and the ink storage chamber 142. The first output tube 133 is used to transfer the pressurized ink in the first filter chamber 132 to the ink storage chamber 142. The first output tube 133 can increase the initial velocity of the pressurized ink when it enters the ink storage chamber 142, so that the pressurized ink reaching the outlet 150 exerts greater pressure on the blockage, making it easier to break the blockage.

[0057] like Figure 8 As shown, in the ink sac 100 of this embodiment 1, the first input tube 131 and the first filter chamber 132 are arranged on the first side 161 of the partition 160, and the first output tube 133 is arranged on the second side 162 of the partition 160. The first input tube 131, the first filter chamber 132 and the first output tube 133 can be arranged compactly, which can reduce the size of the ink sac 100 and realize the miniaturization of the ink sac 100.

[0058] like Figure 9As shown, in the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1, the second ink chamber 140 further includes an ink pump chamber 143. This chamber can pump inkjet ink to the ink storage chamber 142 and can be either a non-deformable or a deformable, squeezeable chamber. The ink pump chamber 143 is connected to the second input tube 141 and to the ink storage chamber 142 via an ink pump hole 144. The ink pump chamber 143 delivers inkjet ink to the ink storage chamber 142 via the ink pump hole 144. The size of the ink pump hole 144 can be determined based on the actual application scenario. For example, a larger diameter ink pump hole 144 can pump more ink per charge, resulting in a larger ink reservoir 142 and a larger ink sac 100, making it suitable for large inkjet printers but not small ones. A smaller diameter ink pump hole 144 can pump less ink per charge, resulting in a smaller ink reservoir 142 and a smaller ink sac 100, making it suitable for small inkjet printers but not large ones. The ink pump hole 143 controls the pumping of ink by providing an ink pump switch 145. This switch is located on the ink pump hole 144 and controls the pumping of ink by the ink pump hole 144, which opens or closes the ink pump hole 144 to control whether the pump hole 143 pumps ink to the ink reservoir 142 or stops pumping ink. When the ink pump switch 145 is on, the ink pump chamber 143 communicates with the ink storage chamber 142, pumping the inkjet ink input from the second input tube 141 into the ink storage chamber 142 through the ink pump hole 144. When the ink pump switch 145 is off, the ink pump chamber 143 and the ink storage chamber 142 are disconnected, and the ink pump switch 145 blocks the ink pump hole 144. When pressurized ink is needed to clear a blockage in the printhead, the ink pump switch 145 can be controlled to isolate the ink pump chamber 143 from the ink storage chamber 142. This prevents the inkjet ink from interfering with the pressurized ink's impact on the blockage, achieving a better printhead clearing effect.

[0059] like Figure 10 As shown, in the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1, the ink pump chamber 143 is provided on the first side 161 of the partition 160, the ink storage chamber 142 is provided on the second side 162 of the partition 160, and the second input tube 141 can be provided on either the first side 161 or the second side 162. Figure 10Taking the second inlet tube 141 as an example, if the second inlet tube 141 is on the second side 162, a single through-hole needs to be drilled in the partition to connect the first inlet tube 141 with the ink pump chamber 143. As the primary components for transporting and storing ink, the ink pump chamber 143 and the ink reservoir chamber 142 are relatively large. If the ink pump chamber 143 and the ink reservoir chamber 142 are arranged parallel to the largest surface of the ink bag 100, and the length of the ink bag 100 parallel to the largest surface of the ink bag 100 is at least the sum of the dimensions of the ink pump chamber 143 and the ink reservoir chamber 142, then the ink bag 100 is relatively large. In the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1, the ink pump chamber 143 and the ink storage chamber 142 are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the surface with the largest area in the ink bag 100. The ink pump chamber 143 and the ink storage chamber 142 are connected by opening an ink pump hole 144 on the partition 160. At this time, the size of the ink bag 100 is reduced by nearly half, the space utilization rate in the ink bag 100 is improved, and the application scenarios are more extensive.

[0060] like Figure 11 As shown, in the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1, the ink pump switch 145 includes a blocking member 146 and a telescopic member 147. One end of the telescopic member 147 is fixed within the ink pump chamber 143, and the other end of the telescopic member 147 is connected to the blocking member 146. The telescopic member 147 is extended and retracted to control the back-and-forth movement of the blocking member 146 along the axis of the ink pump hole 144, thereby controlling the connection and isolation of the ink pump hole 144. The blocking member 146 can be intelligently controlled by an external control device. The user can pre-set the movement timing, movement frequency, and movement speed of the blocking member 146, thereby controlling the timing, frequency, and speed of the ink pump chamber 143 pumping ink into the ink storage chamber 142. Of course, in an optional embodiment, the user can control the movement of the blocking member 146 by touching the blocking member 146 with his hand. This manual control method is suitable for small-scale inkjet printers or portable inkjet printers, and is used in application scenarios of small-scale inkjet printing and fine-scale inkjet printing. The application scenario of small-scale inkjet printing refers to using a small-scale inkjet printer or a micro-scale inkjet printer to spray the position that needs to be repaired when repairing the pattern. The application scenario of fine-scale inkjet printing refers to using a small-scale inkjet printer or a micro-scale inkjet printer to spray smaller patterns in the pattern.

[0061] like Figure 11As shown, in the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1, the blocking member 146 includes an upper blocking member 1461, a lower blocking member 1462, and a connecting rod 1463. The connecting rod 1463 connects the upper blocking member 1461 and the lower blocking member 1462, and the telescopic member 147 is connected to the upper blocking member 1461 and / or the lower blocking member 1462. Specifically, the upper blocking member 1461 is located in the ink storage chamber 142, the lower blocking member 1462 is located in the ink pump chamber 143, and the connecting rod 1463 passes through the ink pump hole 144. The blocking member 146 is shaped like a Chinese character "I". When the ink pump chamber 143 and the ink storage chamber 142 are connected, the upper blocking member 1461 does not contact the inner wall of the ink storage chamber 142, and the lower blocking member 1462 does not contact the inner wall of the ink pump chamber 143, and neither the upper blocking member 1461 nor the lower blocking member 1462 blocks the ink pump hole 144. When the ink pump chamber 143 and the ink storage chamber 142 are isolated, the telescopic member 147 extends toward the ink storage chamber 142, driving the lower blocking member 1462 to contact the inner wall of the ink pump chamber 143 and block the ink pump hole 144, or the telescopic member 147 retracts toward the ink pump chamber 143, driving the upper blocking member 1461 to contact the inner wall of the ink storage chamber 142 and block the ink pump hole 144.

[0062] In an optional embodiment, the telescopic member 147 is a hydraulic telescopic rod or an elastic member. When the telescopic member 147 is an elastic member, when the elastic member is in a relaxed state, the upper blocking member 1461 does not contact the inner wall of the ink storage chamber 142, and the lower blocking member 1462 does not contact the inner wall of the ink pump chamber 143. Neither the upper blocking member 1461 nor the lower blocking member 1462 blocks the ink pump hole 144, and the ink pump chamber 143 and the ink storage chamber 142 are connected. When the elastic member is compressed to the minimum or stretched to the maximum, the upper blocking member 1461 contacts the inner wall of the ink storage chamber 142 and blocks the ink pump hole 144, or the lower blocking member 1462 contacts the inner wall of the ink pump chamber 143 and blocks the ink pump hole 144, and the ink pump chamber 143 and the ink storage chamber 142 are separated. When the telescopic member 147 is a hydraulic telescopic rod, the hydraulic telescopic rod can control the distance between the upper sealing member 1461 and the ink pump hole 144 and the distance between the lower sealing member 1462 and the ink pump hole 144 by moving, thereby controlling the flow rate and flow rate of the inkjet ink pumped from the ink pump chamber 143 to the ink storage chamber 142. The smaller the distance between the lower sealing member 1462 and the ink pump hole 144, the smaller the flow rate and the greater the flow rate of the pumped inkjet ink; the larger the distance between the sealing member 146 and the ink pump hole 144, the greater the flow rate and the smaller the flow rate of the pumped inkjet ink.

[0063] like Figure 12As shown, in the ink bag 100 of this embodiment 1, the outlet 150 includes a first outlet 150 and a second outlet 150, the first outlet 150 is connected to the first ink chamber 130, and the second outlet 150 is connected to the second ink chamber 140. The pressure ink and the inkjet ink are always transported separately before entering the nozzle. In this way, the flow rate of the pressure ink when flowing into the nozzle can be controlled by independently designing the diameter of the first outlet 150, without affecting the normal delivery speed of the inkjet ink.

[0064] The ink bag 100 of the first embodiment is designed with a first ink chamber 130 for conveying pressurized ink. This allows the ink bag 100 to simultaneously convey ink for conventional inkjet printing and convey pressurized ink for removing blockages, without increasing or significantly increasing the size of the ink bag 100. When the ink bag 100 of the first embodiment is used in an inkjet printer, there is no need to add an additional pipeline for removing blockages. The dual functions of the ink bag 100 for both printing and removing blockages can be utilized to achieve the purpose of unclogging the nozzle of the inkjet printer, thereby improving the space utilization rate of the inkjet printer.

[0065] Example 2

[0066] This embodiment 2 provides an ink supply device 200, which can not only realize normal ink supply for users to use for inkjet printing, but also can flush out the blockage by itself without the help of external clearing equipment when the ink supply device 200 is clogged and cannot supply ink normally, thereby restoring normal ink supply.

[0067] like Figure 13 As shown, the ink supply device 200 of this embodiment 2 includes a nozzle 210 and a pressure ink generating device 220. The pressure ink generating device 220 is connected to the nozzle 210 and is used to supply pressure ink to the nozzle 210. The pressure ink generating device 220 generates pressurized air, which applies pressure to the pressure ink, giving the pressure ink an initial velocity. When the pressure ink is delivered to the nozzle 210, the flow rate of the pressure ink can generate impact pressure on the blockage of the nozzle 210. The impact pressure provided by the continuously delivered pressure ink dispels the blockage, ultimately achieving the purpose of unblocking the nozzle 210 and restoring normal ink supply.

[0068] like Figure 14As shown, the ink supply device 200 of this embodiment 2 also includes an ink sac 100 and an ink cartridge 230. The ink cartridge 230 is used to hold ink, which can be either inkjet ink or piezo ink. The ink cartridge 230 can be an integrated ink cartridge 230 holding multiple colors of inkjet ink, or a collection of multiple ink cartridges 230 holding single-color inkjet ink. The ink sac 100 is connected to the ink cartridge 230, and the inkjet ink in the ink cartridge 230 is transferred to the ink sac 100. The ink sac 100 is connected to the nozzle 210, and the inkjet ink in the ink sac 100 is transferred to the nozzle 210. The pressure ink and the inkjet ink are delivered to the nozzle 210 through different paths and will not interfere with each other. When the ink bag 100 delivers the inkjet ink to the nozzle 210, the user can perform inkjet printing. However, once the nozzle 210 is blocked by a clog, the inkjet ink cannot be sprayed out from the nozzle 210. At this time, the pressure ink can be used to impact the clog of the nozzle 210 to clear the nozzle 210. The user can choose to control the ink bag 100 to stop delivering the inkjet ink when the pressure ink clears the nozzle 210, or can choose not to operate.

[0069] The pressure ink generating device 220 includes an air pump and a container for pressurized ink. The air pump applies pressurized air to the container, pumping out the pressurized ink. The pumped-out pressurized ink has an initial flow rate. After being delivered to the nozzle 210, the flow rate of the pressurized ink exerts impact pressure on the blockage in the nozzle 210, forcing the blockage to be dislodged, ultimately unclogging the nozzle 210. The container can also be an ink cartridge 230, i.e., the ink cartridge 230 has both an area for storing and delivering pressurized ink and an area for storing and delivering inkjet ink.

[0070] The ink bag 100 is provided with an ink chamber. The ink chamber discharges ink for printing. The ink chamber is equipped with an automatic switch. When the ink in the ink chamber reaches a predetermined level, the automatic switch closes, stopping the ink supply to the ink chamber. When the ink in the ink chamber decreases to a predetermined level, the automatic switch opens, resuming the ink supply to the ink chamber. The structure of the automatic switch is conventional and will not be described in detail here.

[0071] like Figure 15 As shown, in the ink supply device 200 of this embodiment 2, the pressure ink generating device 220 is connected to the printhead 210 via a first connecting tube 241. The first connecting tube 241 is equipped with a first three-way valve 250, which connects the ink bag 100, the pressure ink generating device 220, and the printhead 210. The first three-way valve 250 is connected to the outlet 150 of the ink bag 100 via a sixth connecting tube 246, and the ink cartridge 230 is connected to the ink chamber of the ink bag 100 via a seventh connecting tube 247. A first ink diverter 260 is provided on the first connecting tube 241. A second ink diverter 280 is provided on the seventh connecting tube 247 to facilitate ink supply to the ink chambers of multiple ink bags 100.

[0072] During normal inkjet printing, the first three-way valve 250 is operated to connect the ink bag 100 with the nozzle 210, while the container or ink cartridge 230 in the pressure ink generating device 220 is disconnected from the nozzle 210. The ink cartridge 230 is positioned higher than the ink bag 100. The ink in the ink cartridge 230 flows by gravity through the seventh connecting tube 247 and the second ink diverter 280 into the ink chamber. The ink in the ink chamber then flows through the first three-way valve 250 into the nozzle 210 for ejection.

[0073] To clean a clogged printhead 210, the first three-way valve 250 is operated to disconnect the ink bag 100 from the printhead 210, connecting the container or ink cartridge 230 in the pressurized ink generating device 220 to the printhead 210. The ink pumping element 221 is activated to deliver pressurized gas into the container or ink cartridge 230. The pressurized ink in the container or ink cartridge 230 is then ejected from the printhead 210 through the first connecting tube 241, the first ink diverter 260, and the first three-way valve 250. Because the pressurized ink carries a certain pressure, it can flush out foreign matter, lumps, and other blockages adhering to the printhead 210, achieving the purpose of cleaning and unblocking.

[0074] Example 3

[0075] This embodiment 3 provides an ink supply device 200, which can not only realize normal ink supply for users to use for inkjet printing, but also can flush out the blockage by itself without the help of external clearing equipment when the ink supply device 200 is clogged and cannot supply ink normally, thereby restoring normal ink supply.

[0076] like Figure 16 As shown, the ink supply device 200 of this embodiment 3 further includes an ink cartridge 230 and an ink bag 100 .

[0077] The ink cartridge 230 is used to contain inkjet ink. The ink cartridge 230 may be an integrated ink cartridge 230 containing inkjet inks of multiple colors, or may be a collection of multiple ink cartridges 230 containing single-color inkjet ink.

[0078] The ink bag 100 is the ink bag 100 disclosed in Example 1 of the present invention. For the specific structure, see Figures 1 to 12The descriptions in Example 1 are omitted here. The first inlet 110 of the ink bag 100 is connected to the pressure ink generating device 220. The pressure ink in the pressure ink generating device 220 is delivered to the first ink chamber 130 of the ink bag 100 through the first inlet 110. The second inlet 120 of the ink bag 100 is connected to the ink cartridge 230. The inkjet printing ink in the ink cartridge 230 is delivered to the second ink chamber 140 of the ink bag 100 through the second inlet 120. The nozzle 210 is connected to the outlet 150 of the ink bag 100. The pressure ink in the first ink chamber 130 and the inkjet printing ink in the second ink chamber 140 are delivered to the nozzle 210 through the outlet 150. In the ink supply device 200 of this embodiment 3, the passage for conveying pressurized ink is integrated in the ink sac 100, and the pressurized ink is conveyed to the nozzle 210 through the first passage L1 in the ink sac 100 to clear the nozzle 210, thereby avoiding the trouble of arranging additional pipes for conveying pressurized ink inside the ink supply device 200, saving space for arranging the pipes, and making the internal structure of the ink supply device 200 more compact, thereby expanding the scope of application and application scenarios of the ink supply device 200, and can be applied to small inkjet printers or micro inkjet printers.

[0079] Different from the ink supply device 200 in Example 2, which connects the ink bag 100, the pressure ink generating device 220 and the nozzle 210 through the first three-way valve 250, the ink supply device 200 in Example 3 connects the pressure ink generating device 220 with the first inlet 110 and the second inlet 120 of the ink bag 100 through the second three-way valve 280. Figure 17 As shown, in the ink supply device 200 of this third embodiment, the pressure ink generating device 220 includes an ink pumping member 221 and an ink cartridge 230. The ink pumping member 221 is connected to the ink cartridge 230. The ink cartridge 230 is connected to a second connecting pipe 242, which is connected to a second three-way valve 280. The second three-way valve 280 is connected to the first inlet 110 via a third connecting pipe 243. The second three-way valve 280 is connected to the second inlet 120 via a fourth connecting pipe 244.

[0080] Among them, the ink pumping component 221 is a pump or an air compressor, and the pump can be an air pump. The ink pumping component 221 is used to generate pressurized air and transport the pressurized air to the ink cartridge 230, so that the pressurized ink in the ink cartridge 230 is pumped out. The pressurized air generated by the ink pumping component 221 can provide an initial velocity for the pumped pressurized ink, so that the pressurized ink can be transported to the nozzle 210 at a larger flow rate, and the impact pressure generated by the flow rate of the pressurized ink when reaching the nozzle 210 is sufficient to flush the blockage at the nozzle 210, thereby achieving the purpose of unblocking the nozzle 210.

[0081] like Figure 17As shown, in the ink supply device 200 of this third embodiment, a first ink diverter 260 is provided on the third connecting tube 243 to facilitate ink supply to the first ink chambers 130 of the multiple ink bags 100. A second ink diverter 280 is provided on the fourth connecting tube 244 to facilitate ink supply to the second ink chambers 140 of the multiple ink bags 100. The first ink diverter 260 is connected to the first inlet 110, and the second ink diverter 280 is connected to the second inlet 120.

[0082] like Figure 17 As shown, in the ink supply device 200 of this embodiment 3, the ink bag 100 is connected to the nozzle 210 through the fifth connecting tube 245, and the ink in the first ink chamber 130 and the second ink chamber 140 of the ink bag 100 is transported to the nozzle 210 through the fifth connecting tube 245.

[0083] During normal inkjet printing, the ink cartridge 230 is positioned higher than the ink bag 100. The ink in the ink cartridge 230 flows by gravity through the second connecting pipe 242, the second three-way valve 280, the third connecting pipe 243, and the second ink diverter 280 into the second ink chamber 140. The ink in the second ink chamber 140 is then transported to the nozzle 210 for ejection.

[0084] When a clogged printhead 210 needs to be cleaned, the ink pumping element 221 is activated to deliver pressurized gas into the ink cartridge 230. The pressurized ink in the ink cartridge 230 is then delivered to the first ink chamber 130 of the ink bag 100 through the second connecting tube 242, the second three-way valve 280, the fourth connecting tube 244, and the first ink diverter 260. The pressurized ink then enters the printhead 210 and is ejected. Because the pressurized ink carries a certain pressure, it can flush out foreign matter, lumps, and other blockages adhering to the printhead 210, achieving the cleaning goal.

[0085] Example 4

[0086] Embodiment 4 of the present invention discloses an inkjet printer 300 , which includes the ink supply device 200 disclosed in Embodiments 2 and 3.

[0087] The ink cartridge, ink supply device, and inkjet printer of the present invention deliver pressurized ink to the nozzle. This allows the nozzle to flush out any blockages, allowing for smooth and unimpeded ink delivery. A pressure ink generator connected to the ink cartridge conveniently generates pressurized ink, which is then pressed into the nozzle to flush the nozzle. Using a pressure ink generator, such as an air pump, liquid pump, or air compressor, requires minimal modification to existing inkjet printers and offers broad applicability.

[0088] It should be understood that the above description of the specific embodiments of the present invention is merely for the purpose of illustrating the technical approach and features of the present invention. Its purpose is to enable those skilled in the art to understand the contents of the present invention and implement them accordingly. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described specific embodiments. Any changes or modifications made within the scope of the claims of the present invention are intended to be covered by the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. Ink capsule, used in an ink supply device with a nozzle, characterized in that: The ink bag includes a first inlet, a second inlet, a first ink chamber, a second ink chamber, an outlet and a partition; The first inlet is connected to the first ink chamber, the second inlet is connected to the second ink chamber, and the first ink chamber and the second ink chamber are connected to the outlet respectively; The two largest surfaces on the partition are parallel to the largest surface on the ink bag, or the angle between the two is acute. The partition has a first side and a second side opposite to each other, and the first ink chamber and the second ink chamber are respectively provided on the two sides of the partition. The first inlet is used to input pressure ink into the first ink chamber, and the first ink chamber is used to output the input pressure ink to the nozzle through the outlet; The second inlet is used to input inkjet ink to the second ink chamber, and the second ink chamber is used to output the input inkjet ink to the nozzle through the outlet.

2. The ink bag according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first ink chamber has a first input tube and a first filter chamber; The first input pipe is connected to the first inlet and the first filter cavity, and the first filter cavity is connected to the outlet; The first input tube is used to transmit the input pressure ink to the first filter cavity; The first filter chamber is used to filter the input pressure ink and then transmit it to the outlet.

3. The ink bag according to claim 2, characterized in that: The second ink chamber has a second input tube and an ink storage chamber; The second input pipe is connected to the ink storage chamber and the second inlet, and the ink storage chamber is connected to the first filter chamber and the outlet; The second input tube is used to transfer the input inkjet ink to the ink storage chamber; The ink storage chamber is used to transmit the pressure ink input from the first filter chamber to the outlet, and to transmit the inkjet ink input from the second input tube to the outlet.

4. The ink bag according to claim 3, characterized in that: The second ink chamber further comprises an ink pump chamber, the ink pump chamber is communicated with the second input tube, the ink pump chamber is connected to the ink storage chamber via an ink pump hole, and an ink pump switch is provided at the ink pump hole; When the ink pump switch is turned on, the ink pump chamber is connected to the ink storage chamber, and the ink pump chamber is used to pump the inkjet ink input from the second input tube into the ink storage chamber through the ink pump hole; When the ink pump switch is closed, the ink pump chamber is not connected to the ink storage chamber, and the ink pump switch blocks the ink pump hole.

5. Ink supply device, characterized in that, The ink supply device comprises: The ink bag according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first inlet of the ink bag is connected to a pressure ink generating device, and the pressure ink in the pressure ink generating device is delivered to the first ink chamber of the ink bag; and A nozzle and a pressure ink generating device, wherein the pressure ink generating device is connected to the nozzle and is used to deliver pressure ink to the nozzle.

6. The ink supply device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The ink supply device also includes an ink cartridge; The ink cartridge is used to contain inkjet ink; The ink sac is connected to the ink cartridge, and the inkjet ink in the ink cartridge is transported to the ink sac; The ink bag is communicated with the nozzle, and the inkjet ink in the ink bag is transported to the nozzle.

7. The ink supply device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The pressure ink generating device is connected to the nozzle through a first connecting pipe. The first connecting pipe is provided with a first three-way valve. The first three-way valve connects the ink bag, the pressure ink generating device and the nozzle.

8. The ink supply device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The ink cartridge is used to contain inkjet ink; The second inlet of the ink bag is connected to the ink cartridge, and the inkjet ink in the ink cartridge is transported to the second ink chamber of the ink bag; The nozzle is communicated with the outlet of the ink bag, and the pressure ink in the first ink chamber and the inkjet ink in the second ink chamber are transported to the nozzle through the outlet.

9. The ink supply device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The pressure ink generating device includes an ink pumping member and the ink cartridge, wherein the ink pumping member is in communication with the ink cartridge; The ink cartridge is connected to a second connecting pipe, which is connected to a second three-way valve; the second three-way valve is connected to the first inlet through a third connecting pipe; and the second three-way valve is connected to the second inlet through a fourth connecting pipe.

10. Inkjet printer, characterized in that: The invention comprises the ink supply device according to any one of claims 5 to 9.

Images