Patent ID: 6276788
Filing Date: 2001-08-21
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
A customer replaceable ink cartridge for an ink supply station of an ink jet printer, the ink supply station includes at least one fixedly mounted probe for releasable connection with the cartridge, the cartridge comprising:a vent-free flexible pouch suitable for containing ink; a fitment integrally attached to the pouch and having an end extending therefrom; and a quick disconnect valve an the end of the fitment, the valve comprising:a resilient cap having an interior surface, an exterior surface, and an aperture through the cap, wherein the interior surface of the cap surrounding the aperture forms a valve seat; anda movable ball resiliently urged against the valve seat to close the aperture;wherein the fitment includes an internal shoulder, and the quick disconnect valve additionally comprises a spring that resides against the internal shoulder of the fitment and urges the movable ball against the valve seat; andwherein the resilient cap is held in place by frictional engagement with the fitment extending from the pouch.