Patent ID: 6281916
Filing Date: 2001-08-28
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
An apparatus for supplying ink, the apparatus comprising:(1) an ink source;(2) a first sub-reservoir comprising:(a) a first housing container;(b) a first flexible container housed within the first housing container, the first flexible container comprising an outlet, an inlet that is fluidly connected to the ink source, and a top surface; and(3) a first sensor connected to an actuator, wherein the first sensor senses a height of the top surface of the first flexible container, such that when the height of the top surface of the first flexible container is below a first height range, the first sensor emits a signal that instructs a device to allow ink to flow from the ink source to the inlet of the first flexible container, and when the height of the top surface of the first flexible container is above the first height range, the first sensor emits a signal that instructs a device to prevent the ink from flowing from the ink source to the inlet of the first flexible container,the apparatus comprising a closed system wherein air is sealed outside the system and not allowed to flow into the system's components.