Patent ID: 7857438
Filing Date: 2010-12-28
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
1. A method of priming a printhead cartridge upon installation in a printer, the printhead cartridge having a printhead, a first fluid coupling and a second fluid coupling, the printer having at least three ink tanks for storing the inks of different color, the printer also having a cradle for supporting the printhead cartridge adjacent a media feed path, a first fluid interface in fluid communication with the ink tanks, a second fluid interface in fluid communication with a waste ink outlet and a latch for securing the printhead cartridge in the cradle, the latch being movable between an open position where access to the cradle is unobstructed, and a closed position where access to the cradle is obstructed, the method comprising the steps of: placing the printhead cartridge in the cradle while the latch is in the open position such that the first fluid coupling is aligned with the first fluid interface and the second fluid coupling is aligned with the second fluid interface; moving the latch to the closed position to secure the printhead cartridge in cradle; configuring the first fluid interface and the second fluid interface to move into sealing engagement with the first fluid coupling and the second fluid coupling respectively, simultaneously with movement of the latch to the closed position; generating an ink flow from the ink tanks to the first fluid interface into the printhead and subsequently out the second fluid coupling to the waste ink outlet; and, establishing a negative pressure in the at least three ink tanks prior to printing.