Patent ID: 6019450
Filing Date: 2000-02-01
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
A method of performing initial filling of a recording head of an ink jet recording apparatus, said ink jet recording apparatus comprising an ink cartridge for supplying ink to said recording head, said recording head having nozzle openings, said method comprising the sequential steps of:attaching a cap member to said nozzle openings of said recording head;applying a first negative pressure to said cap member for a first predetermined time to cause ink to flow from said ink cartridge into said recording head at a first flow rate;applying a second negative pressure to said cap member for a second predetermined time to cause ink to flow from said ink cartridge into said recording head at a second flow rate, wherein said first flow rate is less than said second flow rate;discontinuing said second negative pressure;applying a third negative pressure to said cap member for a third predetermined time to restore a meniscus to said nozzle openings of said recording head; anddiscontinuing said third negative pressure.