CA2550790C - Inkjet printer unit having a high speed print engine - Google Patents

Inkjet printer unit having a high speed print engine Download PDF

Info

Publication number
CA2550790C
CA2550790C CA2550790A CA2550790A CA2550790C CA 2550790 C CA2550790 C CA 2550790C CA 2550790 A CA2550790 A CA 2550790A CA 2550790 A CA2550790 A CA 2550790A CA 2550790 C CA2550790 C CA 2550790C
Authority
CA
Canada
Prior art keywords
ink
printhead
cartridge
assembly
printing
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Fee Related
Application number
CA2550790A
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
CA2550790A1 (en
Inventor
Kia Silverbrook
Akira Nakazawa
Christopher Hibbard
Paul Ian Mackey
Norman Micheal Berry
Garry Raymond Jackson
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Memjet Technology Ltd
Original Assignee
Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd filed Critical Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
Publication of CA2550790A1 publication Critical patent/CA2550790A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of CA2550790C publication Critical patent/CA2550790C/en
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/015—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process
    • B41J2/04—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand
    • B41J2/045—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
    • B41J2/04501—Control methods or devices therefor, e.g. driver circuits, control circuits
    • B41J2/04541—Specific driving circuit
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J25/00—Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
    • B41J25/34—Bodily-changeable print heads or carriages
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/015—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process
    • B41J2/04—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand
    • B41J2/045—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
    • B41J2/04501—Control methods or devices therefor, e.g. driver circuits, control circuits
    • B41J2/04543—Block driving
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/015—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process
    • B41J2/04—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand
    • B41J2/045—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
    • B41J2/04501—Control methods or devices therefor, e.g. driver circuits, control circuits
    • B41J2/0458—Control methods or devices therefor, e.g. driver circuits, control circuits controlling heads based on heating elements forming bubbles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/015—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process
    • B41J2/04—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand
    • B41J2/045—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
    • B41J2/04501—Control methods or devices therefor, e.g. driver circuits, control circuits
    • B41J2/04585—Control methods or devices therefor, e.g. driver circuits, control circuits controlling heads based on thermal bent actuators
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/015—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process
    • B41J2/04—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand
    • B41J2/045—Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
    • B41J2/04501—Control methods or devices therefor, e.g. driver circuits, control circuits
    • B41J2/04591—Width of the driving signal being adjusted
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/14—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads
    • B41J2/14016—Structure of bubble jet print heads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/14—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads
    • B41J2/14427—Structure of ink jet print heads with thermal bend detached actuators
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/145—Arrangement thereof
    • B41J2/155—Arrangement thereof for line printing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/16—Production of nozzles
    • B41J2/1621—Manufacturing processes
    • B41J2/1623—Manufacturing processes bonding and adhesion
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/16—Production of nozzles
    • B41J2/1621—Manufacturing processes
    • B41J2/1626—Manufacturing processes etching
    • B41J2/1628—Manufacturing processes etching dry etching
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/16—Production of nozzles
    • B41J2/1621—Manufacturing processes
    • B41J2/1632—Manufacturing processes machining
    • B41J2/1634—Manufacturing processes machining laser machining
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/16—Production of nozzles
    • B41J2/1621—Manufacturing processes
    • B41J2/1637—Manufacturing processes molding
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/16—Production of nozzles
    • B41J2/1621—Manufacturing processes
    • B41J2/164—Manufacturing processes thin film formation
    • B41J2/1642—Manufacturing processes thin film formation thin film formation by CVD [chemical vapor deposition]
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/16—Production of nozzles
    • B41J2/1648—Production of print heads with thermal bend detached actuators
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/165—Preventing or detecting of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
    • B41J2/16517—Cleaning of print head nozzles
    • B41J2/1652—Cleaning of print head nozzles by driving a fluid through the nozzles to the outside thereof, e.g. by applying pressure to the inside or vacuum at the outside of the print head
    • B41J2/16526—Cleaning of print head nozzles by driving a fluid through the nozzles to the outside thereof, e.g. by applying pressure to the inside or vacuum at the outside of the print head by applying pressure only
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/165—Preventing or detecting of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
    • B41J2/16517—Cleaning of print head nozzles
    • B41J2/16535—Cleaning of print head nozzles using wiping constructions
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/165—Preventing or detecting of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
    • B41J2/16585—Preventing or detecting of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles for paper-width or non-reciprocating print heads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/1707—Conditioning of the inside of ink supply circuits, e.g. flushing during start-up or shut-down
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/1714—Conditioning of the outside of ink supply systems, e.g. inkjet collector cleaning, ink mist removal
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17503—Ink cartridges
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17503—Ink cartridges
    • B41J2/17506—Refilling of the cartridge
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17503—Ink cartridges
    • B41J2/17506—Refilling of the cartridge
    • B41J2/17509—Whilst mounted in the printer
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17503—Ink cartridges
    • B41J2/17513—Inner structure
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17503—Ink cartridges
    • B41J2/1752—Mounting within the printer
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17503—Ink cartridges
    • B41J2/17536—Protection of cartridges or parts thereof, e.g. tape
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17503—Ink cartridges
    • B41J2/17553—Outer structure
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17503—Ink cartridges
    • B41J2/17556—Means for regulating the pressure in the cartridge
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17566—Ink level or ink residue control
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/19—Ink jet characterised by ink handling for removing air bubbles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/485—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by the process of building-up characters or image elements applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking processes
    • B41J2/505—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by the process of building-up characters or image elements applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking processes from an assembly of identical printing elements
    • B41J2/515—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by the process of building-up characters or image elements applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking processes from an assembly of identical printing elements line printer type
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J29/00—Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
    • B41J29/02—Framework
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J29/00—Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
    • B41J29/12—Guards, shields or dust excluders
    • B41J29/13—Cases or covers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J29/00—Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
    • B41J29/38—Drives, motors, controls or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C64/00—Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering
    • B29C64/20—Apparatus for additive manufacturing; Details thereof or accessories therefor
    • B29C64/205—Means for applying layers
    • B29C64/209—Heads; Nozzles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/14—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads
    • B41J2002/14362—Assembling elements of heads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/14—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads
    • B41J2002/14403—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads including a filter
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/14—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads
    • B41J2002/14419—Manifold
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/14—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads
    • B41J2/14427—Structure of ink jet print heads with thermal bend detached actuators
    • B41J2002/14435—Moving nozzle made of thermal bend detached actuator
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/14—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads
    • B41J2002/14459—Matrix arrangement of the pressure chambers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/14—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads
    • B41J2002/14475—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads characterised by nozzle shapes or number of orifices per chamber
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/14—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads
    • B41J2002/14491—Electrical connection
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/1721—Collecting waste ink; Collectors therefor
    • B41J2002/1742—Open waste ink collector, e.g. ink receiving from a print head above the collector during borderless printing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17503—Ink cartridges
    • B41J2/17513—Inner structure
    • B41J2002/17516—Inner structure comprising a collapsible ink holder, e.g. a flexible bag
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2202/00—Embodiments of or processes related to ink-jet or thermal heads
    • B41J2202/01—Embodiments of or processes related to ink-jet heads
    • B41J2202/19—Assembling head units
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2202/00—Embodiments of or processes related to ink-jet or thermal heads
    • B41J2202/01—Embodiments of or processes related to ink-jet heads
    • B41J2202/20—Modules
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2202/00—Embodiments of or processes related to ink-jet or thermal heads
    • B41J2202/01—Embodiments of or processes related to ink-jet heads
    • B41J2202/21—Line printing

Abstract

An inkjet printer unit (2) comprising: a media input tray (3) for supplying print media (8) for printing; a print engine (1) for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray (4) for collecting the printed media; wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge (10) of a type having a pagewidth printhead (22) and an ink supply (24) and a cradle (12) having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

Description

DEMANDE OU BREVET VOLUMINEUX

LA PRRSENTE PARTIE DE CETTE DEMANDE OU CE BREVET COMPREND
PLUS D'UN TOME.

NOTE : Pour les tomes additionels, veuillez contacter le Bureau canadien des brevets JUMBO APPLICATIONS/PATENTS

THIS SECTION OF THE APPLICATION/PATENT CONTAINS MORE THAN ONE
VOLUME

NOTE: For additional volumes, please contact the Canadian Patent Office NOM DU FICHIER / FILE NAME:

NOTE POUR LE TOME / VOLUME NOTE:

INKJET PRINTER UNIT HAVING A HIGH SPEED PRINT ENGINE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an inkjet printer unit having a high speed print engine capable of printing at speeds in the vicinity of 60 pages per minute, and more particularly to an inkjet printer unit having a print engine that comprises a removable pagewidth printhead cartridge.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditionally, most commercially available inkjet printers have a print engine which forms part of the overall structure and design of the printer. In this regard, the body of the printer unit is typically constructed to accommodate the print head and associated media delivery mechanisms, and these features are integral with the printer unit.
This is especially the case with inkjet printers that employ a printhead that traverses back and forth across the media as the media is progressed through the printer unit in small iterations. In such cases the reciprocating printhead is typically mounted to the body of the printer unit such that it can traverse the width of the printer unit between a media input roller and a media output roller, with the media input and output rollers forming part of the structure of the printer unit. With such a printer unit it may be possible to remove the printhead for replacement, however the other parts of the print engine, such as the media transport rollers, control circuitry and maintenance stations, are typically fixed within the printer unit and replacement of these parts is not possible without replacement of the entire printer unit.
As well as being rather fixed in their design construction, printer units employing reciprocating type printheads are considerably slow, particularly when performing print jobs of full colour and/or photo quality.
This is due to the fact that the printhead must continually traverse the stationary media to deposit the ink on the surface of the media and it may take a number of swathes of the printhead to deposit one line of the image.
Recently, it has been possible to provide a printhead that extends the entire width of the print media so that the printhead can remain stationary as the media is transported past the printhead. Such systems greatly increase the speed at which printing can occur as the printhead no longer needs to perform a number of swathes to deposit a line of an image, but rather the printhead can deposit the ink on the media as it moves past at high speeds. Such printheads have made it possible to perform full colour 1600dpi printing at speeds in the vicinity of 60 pages per minute, speeds previously unattainable with conventional inkjet printers.
Such a pagewidth printhead typically requires high precision and high speed paper movement and as such the entire print engine (printhead, paper handling mechanisms and control circuitry etc) must be configured accordingly to ensure high quality output.
Accordingly, there is a need to provide a print engine having a pagewidth printhead that can be readily employed within a standard body of a printer unit and is constructed in a manner that ensures that all the necessary parts of the print engine are configured in a manner that enables consistent, high speed printing SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect the present invention provides an inkjet printer unit comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.
Optionally the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from the media input tray and to deliver printed media to the media output tray.

Optionally the cradle includes a media transport mechanism for transporting the print media from the media input tray to the printhead for printing, and from the printhead to the media output tray for collecting the printed media.

Optionally the media transport mechanism comprises a drive roller assembly and an exit roller assembly.
Optionally the body defines a recess to receive the removable inkjet cartridge.

Optionally the cradle comprises a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing.

Optionally a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

Optionally the plurality of terminals are located within said recess.

Optionally the controller is in the form of electrical circuitry provided on a printed circuit board, and the plurality of terminals are formed along a surface of the printed circuit board.
Optionally the controller includes one or more SoPEC devices for controlling the operation of the printhead.
Optionally the electrical circuitry is provided upon one surface of the printed circuit board and the plurality of terminals are provided upon an opposite surface of the printed circuit board.

Optionally the electrical circuitry sends electrical signals in the form of data and power signals to the plurality of terminals for transmission to the corresponding terminals on the removable inkjet cartridge.

Optionally wherein the pagewidth printhead of the removable inkjet cartridge has a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto the passing print media and the corresponding terminals are provided on an electrical connector which is in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly.
5 Optionally the plurality of nozzles are provided on one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly.

Optionally each integrated circuit has one or more contact pads formed along an edge thereof to which one end of the electrical connector is attached.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector is provided with the corresponding terminals for receiving power and/or data signals from the controller of the cradle.

Optionally the electrical connector is of sufficient length and flexibility to extend around the printhead assembly.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector is configured to be received along a surface of the cartridge when the printhead assembly is secured thereto.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector has a plurality of holes formed therein, each of the holes configured to receive a stud formed on the surface of the cartridge to retain the free end of the electrical connector in position upon said surface.

Optionally when the free end of the electrical connector is retained in position upon the surface of the cartridge, the corresponding terminals are exposed upon the surface of the electrical connector.

Optionally the electrical connector is a flexible printed circuit board.

Optionally the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

Optionally the cartridge comprises:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

Optionally the cartridge comprises :
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

Optionally the cartridge comprises :
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

Optionally the cartridge comprises:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

Optionally the pagewidth printhead is included in a pagewidth printhead assembly further comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

Optionally the pagewidth printhead is included in a pagewidth printhead assembly further comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

Optionally the pagewidth printhead is included in a pagewidth printhead assembly further comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.
Optionally the pagewidth printhead is included in a pagewidth printhead assembly further comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.
Optionally the pagewidth printhead is included in a pagewidth printhead assembly further comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
Optionally the unit having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

Optionally the unit having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising :
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

Optionally the unit having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

Optionally the unit having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising :
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
Optionally the body of the cradle is complementary to the removable inkj et cartridge, the cradle further comprising a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing,and, wherein a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

Optionally the body of the cradle is complementary to the removable inkjet cartridge and the cradle further comprises:
a controller, for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge, and wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

Optionally the cradle is a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the cradle is a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the removable inkjet cartridge and configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge, the body having a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply, and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing.

Optionally the cradle is a cradle unit comprising a body complementary to the removable inkjet cartridge and having an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge, wherein the cradle further comprises a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing.
Optionally the unit further comprising a cover assembly for the cradle, the cradle having a body, complementary to the removable inkjet cartridge, and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cover assembly comprises at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the unit further comprising a cover assembly for the cradle, the craddle having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing,wherein the cover assembly comprises a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said 5 refillable ink supply.

Optionally the unit further comprising an ink priming system for a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge;
10 and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

Optionally the unit further comprising an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passageand the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

Optionally the unit further comprising a printing fluid refill cartridge and a printing fluid dispenser for the printing fluid refill cartridge, the fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a method of refilling a supply of printing fluid in the printing unit, the method comprising the steps of removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.
In a further aspect the inkjet printer unit further comprising a printing fluid refill cartridge and a dispensing assembly for the refill cartridge, the dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect the inkjet printer unit further comprising a system for controlling refilling of a print engine by a printing fluid refill unit, the system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect the inkjet printer unit having a printing fluid refill unit for the print engine, the refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a method of controlling refilling of the printing unit by a printing fluid refill cartridge, the method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided an inkjet printer unit having a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.
In a second aspect the present invention provides a print engine for an inkjet printer comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

Optionally the cradle includes a media transport mechanism for transporting the print media from the media input tray to the printhead for printing, and from the printhead to the media output tray for collecting the printed media.

Optionally the media transport mechanism comprises a drive roller assembly and an exit roller assembly.
Optionally the body defines a recess to receive the removable inkjet cartridge.

Optionally the cradle comprises a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing.
Optionally a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

Optionally the plurality of terminals are located within said recess.

Optionally the controller is in the form of electrical circuitry provided on a printed circuit board, and the plurality of terminals are formed along a surface of the printed circuit board.

Optionally the controller includes one or more SoPEC devices for controlling the operation of the printhead.
Optionally the electrical circuitry is provided upon one surface of the printed circuit board and the plurality of terminals are provided upon an opposite surface of the printed circuit board.

Optionally the electrical circuitry sends electrical signals in the form of data and power signals to the plurality of terminals for transmission to the corresponding terminals on the removable inkjet cartridge.

Optionally the pagewidth printhead of the removable inkjet cartridge has a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto the passing print media and the corresponding terminals are provided on an electrical connector which is in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly.
Optionally the plurality of nozzles are provided on one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly.

Optionally each integrated circuit has one or more contact pads formed along an edge thereof to which one end of the electrical connector is attached.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector is provided with the corresponding terminals for receiving power and/or data signals from the controller of the cradle.

Optionally the electrical connector is of sufficient length and flexibility to extend around the printhead assembly.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector is configured to be received along a surface of the cartridge when the printhead assembly is secured thereto.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector has a plurality of holes formed therein, each of the holes configured to receive a stud formed on the surface of the cartridge to retain the free end of the electrical connector in position upon said surface.

Optionally when the free end of the electrical connector is retained in position upon the surface of the cartridge, the corresponding terminals are exposed upon the surface of the electrical connector.
Optionally the electrical connector is a flexible printed circuit board.

Optionally the engine being arranged for use in an inkjet printer unit for printing an image on said print media, the printer unit also comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

Optionally the cartridge comprises:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

Optionally the cartridge comprises:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

Optionally the cartridge comprises:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the cartridge comprises:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the print engine comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the print engine comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly having:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;

one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes 5 the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the print engine comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly having :
10 a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and 15 an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the print engine comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly having :
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the print engine comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly having:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the print engine comprises a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly having:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the print engine comprises a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly having:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the print engine comprises a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly having:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the print engine comprises a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly having:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the cradle is a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the removable inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the cradle is a cradle unit comprising :
a body complementary to the removable inkjet cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the cradle is a cradle unit comprising :
a body complementary to the removable inkjet cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the cradle is a cradle unit comprising :
a body complementary to the removable inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a print engine wherein the cradle is a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the removable inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.
Optionally the print engine having a cover assembly for the cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the print engine having a cover assembly for the cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; the cover assembly comprising:
a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

Optionally the print engine having an ink priming system for the cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

Optionally the print engine having an ink priming system for the cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

Optionally the print engine being arranged for use with a printing fluid refill cartridge associated with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.
Optionally the cartridge is arranged for refilling with a supply of printing fluid by a method comprising the steps of.
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

Optionally the print engine being arranged for use with a dispensing assembly for a printing fluid refill cartridge, the dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

Optionally the print engine having a system for controlling refilling of the print engine by a printing fluid refill unit, the system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

Optionally the print engine being arranged for use with a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

Optionally the cartridge is arranged for refilling with a supply of printing fluid by a printing fluid refill cartridge, wherein the method of controlling the refilling of the cartridge comprises the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

Optionally the inkjet cartridge comprises a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid 5 to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a third aspect the present invention provides a cartridge unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
10 a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

Optionally the pagewidth printhead assembly includes a plurality of connectors which project from a surface thereof and are received by the body portion to secure the printhead assembly thereto.

15 Optionally the body portion has one or more ink outlets formed along a surface thereof, with each of the ink outlets being associated with one of the ink storage compartments and configured to receive an ink inlet of the pagewidth printhead assembly when the pagewidth printhead assembly is attached thereto.

Optionally the ink inlets are hollow tubes which project from the pagewidth printhead assembly and are received within the ink outlets of the body portion to facilitate the delivery of ink to the printhead assembly.
20 Optionally the printhead assembly comprises one or more ink delivery channels which extend the length thereof, each of the ink delivery channels being configured to receive ink from only one of the ink inlets.
Optionally the printhead assembly comprises one or more integrated circuits which extend substantially the length thereof, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to receive ink from the one or more ink delivery channels and deliver the ink onto passing print media.

Optionally an ink distribution member distributes the ink from the one or more ink delivery channels to the nozzles of the integrated circuits.

Optionally the integrated circuits are secured to a surface of the ink distribution member.
Optionally the integrated circuits are secured to the surface of the ink distribution member in an end-to-end arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

Optionally the ends of the integrated circuits are shaped to have a straight edge to facilitate a rectangular join between neighbouring integrated circuits.

Optionally the ends of the integrated circuits are shaped to have an angled edge to facilitate a sloping join between neighbouring integrated circuits.

Optionally neighbouring integrated circuits are vertically offset from each other along the length of the ink distribution member.

Optionally the nozzles are provided in sloping rows along the surface of the integrated circuits.
Optionally the angled edge has an angle of 45 .

Optionally the angled edge has a sawtooth profile.

Optionally the nozzles of each of the rows adjacent one end of the integrated circuits are vertically displaced with respect to the remainder of the nozzles to provide a degree of nozzle overlap at the join and to maintain nozzle pitch across the join.

Optionally the vertically displaced nozzles are arranged in a triangular configuration.
Optionally the vertically displaced nozzles are arranged in a trapezoidal configuration.

Optionally the distance of separation between neighbouring integrated circuits is less than 15 microns.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the inkjet printer is an inkjet printer unit comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises the cartridge and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead assembly for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use in a print engine for an inkjet printer, the print engine further comprising a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge further comprising a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and has a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and wherein the cartridge further comprises an electrical connector being in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridges, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where "said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;

wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
5 a body complementary to the cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals 10 provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the 15 body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
20 wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
25 wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit arranged for use with a cover assembly having a body, complementary to the cartridge, and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cover assembly comprises at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit of an inkjet printer arranged for use with a cover assembly having a body, complementary to the cartridge, and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cover assembly comprises a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with an ink priming system for priming the cartridge, the system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with an ink priming system for priming the cartridge, the system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with a printing fluid refill cartridge having a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge by way of a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a printing fluid refill cartridge, wherein the system for controlling refilling of the cartridge by the printing fluid refill unit comprises:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a printing fluid refill unit for a print engine, the refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a printing fluid refill cartridge, wherein the method of controlling refilling of the inkjet cartridge by the refill cartridge comprises the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a fourth aspect the present invention provides a cartridge unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

Optionally the capper unit includes a mounting element for mounting the capper unit to the body portion, the mounting element comprises one or more clips projecting from the capper unit which engage with corresponding clips provided on the body portion.

Optionally the capper unit is mounted to the body portion such that a gap is provided between the printhead assembly and capper unit, said gap being sufficient to enable print media to pass therethrough for printing by said printhead.

Optionally a surface of the capper unit opposite said printhead acts as a media guide, and supports said print media as it passes said printhead for printing.

Optionally the surface has a slot formed therein which extends the length of the body.

Optionally the capping element is movable to project through said slot and across said gap to cap a printing surface of the printhead assembly.

Optionally the printing surface comprises a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver ink onto the passing print media.

Optionally the capping element has an open rim portion which contacts said printing surface of the printhead assembly and seals the nozzles within an internal space of the capping element.

Optionally the internal space of the capping element comprises an absorbent material for receiving ink ejected by the nozzles.

Optionally the capping element is movable to retract into said capper unit to uncap said printing surface to enable printing to occur.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises the cartridge and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead assembly for printing;

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use in a print engine further comprising:
a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and has a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and wherein the cartridge further comprises an electrical connector being in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;

wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the 5 length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes 10 the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the 15 length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes 20 the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
25 a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and 30 an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit arranged for use with a cover assembly having a body, complementary to the cartridge, and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cover assembly comprises at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit of arranged for use with a cover assembly having a body, complementary to the cartridge, and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cover assembly comprises a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with an ink priming system for priming the cartridge, the system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and,one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with an ink priming system for prinming the cartridge, the system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a printing fluid refill cartridge having a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge by a method comprising the steps of removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge, the system for controlling refilling of the inkjet cartridge comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge, wherein the method of controlling the refilling comprises the steps of :

storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the 5 printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge the cartridge comprising a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid 10 and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

15 In a fifth aspect the present invention provides a cartridge unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and 20 an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

Optionally the plurality of nozzles are provided on one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly.

25 Optionally each integrated circuit has one or more contact pads formed along an edge thereof to which one end of the electrical connector is attached.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector is provided with a plurality of contacts for receiving power and/or data signals from the inkjet printer for transmission to the corresponding contact pads of the integrated circuits.

30 Optionally the electrical connector is of sufficient length and flexibility to extend around the printhead assembly.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector is configured to be received along a surface of the body portion when the printhead assembly is secured thereto.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector has a plurality of holes formed therealong, each of the said holes configured to receive a stud formed on the body portion to retain the free end of the electrical connector in position upon a surface of the body portion.

Optionally when the free end of the electrical connector is retained in position upon a surface of the cartridge unit, the plurality of contacts are exposed upon the surface of the electrical connector.

Optionally the electrical connector is a flexible printed circuit board In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises the cartridge and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead assembly for printing;

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use in a print engine further comprising:
a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is mountable to said body portion and is configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; the cartridge further comprising:
a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;

one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and 5 includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
10 wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit arranged for use with a cover assembly having a body, complementary to the cartridge, and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
15 wherein the cover assembly comprises at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit of arranged for use with a cover assembly having a body, complementary to the cartridge, and an ink supply and a controller for 20 controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cover assembly comprises a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with an ink priming system for priming the cartridge, the system comprising:
25 a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead 30 assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with an ink priming system for prinming the cartridge, the system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the 35 cartridge;

an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a printing fluid refill cartridge having a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge by a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge, the system for controlling refilling of the inkjet cartridge comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge, wherein the method of controlling the refilling comprises the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge the cartridge comprising a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a sixth aspect the present invention provides cartridge unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

Optionally each ink storage compartment is dedicated to storing a specific type of ink for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

Optionally the type of ink is determined by the colour of the ink.

Optionally each ink storage compartment separately supplies the ink to the printhead assembly.

Optionally due to the capillary action of the absorption material, the ink is supplied to the printhead assembly under negative pressure, which prevents the ink from leaking from the nozzles during non-printing periods.

Optionally the absorption material is foam.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises the cartridge and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead assembly for printing;

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use in a print engine further comprising:
a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is mountable to said body portion and is configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; the cartridge further comprising:
a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the cartridge further comprises an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;

wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each 5 integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or 10 more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a cappingassembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and 15 a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the 20 pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second 25 position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and 30 a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge having a capping assembly for capping the 35 pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:

RRR Pr.T

a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on'said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a cradle unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body complementary to the cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit arranged for use with a cover assembly having a body, complementary to the cartridge, and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cover assembly comprises at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit of arranged for use with a cover assembly having a body, complementary to the cartridge, and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cover assembly comprises a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with an ink priming system for priming the cartridge, the system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for use with an ink priming system for prinming the cartridge, the system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge arranged for use with a printing fluid refill cartridge having a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge by a method comprising the steps of.
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.
In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge, the system for controlling refilling of the inkjet cartridge comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge, wherein the method of controlling the refilling comprises the steps of :

storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cartridge, the cartridge comprising a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a seventh aspect the present invention provided a pagewidth printhead assembly for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

Optionally the integrated circuits abut in an end-to-end arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

Optionally the ends of the integrated circuits are shaped to have a straight edge to facilitate a rectangular join between neighbouring integrated circuits.

Optionally the ends of the integrated circuits are shaped to have an angled edge to facilitate a sloping join between neighbouring integrated circuits.

Optionally neighbouring integrated circuits are vertically offset from each other along the length of the ink distribution member.

Optionally the rows of nozzles are arranged in a sloping arrangement across the surface of the integrated circuits.

Optionally the angled edge has an angle of 45 .
Optionally the angled edge has a sawtooth profile.

5 Optionally the nozzles of each of the rows adjacent one end of the integrated circuits are vertically displaced with respect to the remainder of the nozzles to provide a degree of nozzle overlap at the join and to maintain nozzle pitch across the join.

Optionally the vertically displaced nozzles are arranged in a triangular configuration.
Optionally the vertically displaced nozzles are arranged in a trapezoidal configuration.

10 Optionally the distance of separation between neighbouring integrated circuits is less than 15 microns.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
15 wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a print engine of the inkjet printer, the print engine comprising:
20 a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having the pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

25 In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.
In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the body portion has one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly and wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead of the assembly is arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead being arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead being arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;

a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary, to a removable inkjet cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge associated with the printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge associated with the printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;

wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of associated with the printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cradle unit is arranged for engagement with a cover assembly comprising:
at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cradle unit is arranged for engagement with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments within a cartridge unit, the cartridge unit being arranged for use with an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments within a cartridge unit, the cartridge unit being arranged for use with an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the 5 cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
10 wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a cartridge unit adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill cartridge that is arranged for use with a printing 15 'fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a printing unit, which is adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid by a method comprising the steps of 20 removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined 25 amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a cartridge unit adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and 30 a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a print engine adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refil;ling is controlled by a 35 system comprising:

an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a print engine adapted for.refilling from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use with a printing unit adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge wherein the refilling is controlled by a method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a printing cartridge having a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In an eighth aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;

one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

Optionally the connectors extend from a surface of the body portion and engage with retaining means provided on the one or more ink sources to removably secure the printhead assembly thereto.

Optionally one or more ink inlets are formed on the surface of the body portion to mate with corresponding ink outlets provided on the ink sources to permit controlled ink flow therebetween when the body portion is secured to the one or more ink sources.

Optionally the one or more ink sources are provided within a cartridge unit and the printhead assembly is removably secured to the cartridge unit.

Optionally the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;

Optionally the printhead is arranged for use in a print engine of the inkjet printer, the print engine comprising:
a removable inkj et cartridge of a type having the pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.
In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the body portion has one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly and wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead of the assembly is arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead being arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead being arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;

a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where 5 the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkj et cartridge; and 10 a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

15 In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable ink et cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control 20 signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
25 a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge associated with the printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for 30 refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge associated with the printhead and a refillable ink supply; and 35 a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;

wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of associated with the printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.
In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; wherein the cradle unit is arranged for engagement with a cover assembly comprising:
at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cradle unit is arranged for engagement with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments within a cartridge unit, the cartridge unit being arranged for use with an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments within a cartridge unit, the cartridge unit being arranged for use with an ink priming system comprising:

a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a cartridge unit adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill cartridge that is arranged for use with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a printing unit, which is adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid by a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a cartridge unit adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a print engine adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refil;ling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a print engine adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use with a printing unit adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge wherein the refilling is controlled by a method comprising the steps of:
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a printing cartridge having a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a ninth aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

Optionally each integrated circuit has one or more contact pads formed along an edge thereof to which one end of the electrical connector is attached to enable electrical communication therebetween.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector is provided with a plurality of contacts for receiving power and/or data from the printer unit for transmission to the corresponding contact pads of the integrated circuits.
Optionally the electrical connector is of sufficient length and flexibility to extend around the printhead assembly.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector is configured to be received along a surface of a cartridge unit when the printhead assembly is secured to the cartridge unit.

Optionally the free end of the electrical connector has a plurality of holes formed therealong, each of the said holes configured to receive a stud formed on the cartridge unit to retain the free end of the electrical connector in position upon a surface of the cartridge unit.

Optionally when the free end of the electrical connector is retained in position upon a surface of the cartridge unit, the plurality of contacts are exposed upon the surface of the electrical connector.

Optionally the electrical connector is a flexible printed circuit board In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a print engine of the inkjet printer, the print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having the pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one 10 or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from 15 the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use 20 with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and 25 an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
30 a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the body portion has one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly and wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead of the assembly is arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead being arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.
In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead being arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:

a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge associated with the printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge associated with the printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of associated with the printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; wherein the cradle unit is arranged for engagement with a cover assembly comprising:
at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cradle unit is arranged for engagement with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments within a cartridge unit, the cartridge unit being arranged for use with an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments within a cartridge unit, the cartridge unit being arranged for use with an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a cartridge unit adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill cartridge that is arranged for use with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a printing unit, which is adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid by a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a cartridge unit adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and 5 a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a print engine adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refil;ling is controlled by a 10 system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print 15 engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a print engine adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element 20 when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use with a printing unit adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge wherein the refilling is controlled by a 25 method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the 30 printing unit; and ' controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a printing cartridge having a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a tenth aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

Optionally the predetermined number of nozzles is selected due to the colour of the ink carried within the channel of the body portion Optionally the conduits are provided along the length of each of the channels of the body portion to provide multiple flow paths for the ink to pass to the integrated circuits.

Optionally the conduits are equi-spaced along the length of each of the channels of the body portion.
Optionally the inlets of the conduits have a width less than or substantially equal to the width of the channels formed in the body portion.

Optionally the inlets have a maximum width of less than 1 mm.

Optionally the inlet and outlet of each of the conduits are connected by a tunnel formed within the body of the ink distribution member, said tunnel providing a path for the ink to flow from the inlet to the outlet.
Optionally each integrated circuits has a plurality of delivery channels formed in a surface thereof for delivering the ink to nozzles.

Optionally the delivery channels extend the length of each integrated circuit.

Optionally the number of delivery channels formed in the surface of each integrated circuit is equivalent to the number of channels provided in the body portion.

Optionally each delivery channel is in fluid communication with at least one row of nozzles.

Optionally the outlet of each conduit delivers ink into one of the delivery channels for supplying said ink to said predetermined number of nozzles.

Optionally the outlets of the conduits have a width less than or substantially equal to the width of the delivery channels formed in the surface of the integrated circuits.

Optionally the outlets have a maximum width less than 80 microns.

Optionally the delivery channels have a plurality of walls provided along the length thereof, said walls dividing said delivery channels into a plurality of sections.

Optionally each outlet supplies ink to at least one section of the delivery channels.
Optionally each outlet supplies ink to two sections of the delivery channels.

Optionally the ink distribution member is made from a photo-structurable glass ceramic material.
Optionally the material is forturan glass.

Optionally each integrated circuit is fixed to the ink distribution member via an adhesive.
Optionally the adhesive is supplied to each of the integrated circuits.

Optionally the adhesive is supplied to the surface of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;

wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a print engine of the inkjet printer, the print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having the pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead of the assembly is arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;

wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead being 5 arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and 10 said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead being arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
15 a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where 20 the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge; and 25 a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the 30 assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;

wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge associated with the printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge associated with the printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of associated with the printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; wherein the cradle unit is arranged for engagement with a cover assembly comprising:
at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cradle unit is arranged for engagement with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments within a cartridge unit, the cartridge unit being arranged for use with an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments within a cartridge unit, the cartridge unit being arranged for use with an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a cartridge unit adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill cartridge that is arranged for use with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a printing unit, which is adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid by a method comprising the steps of removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a cartridge unit adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a print engine adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refil;ling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a fir ther aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a print engine adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use with a printing unit adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge wherein the refilling is controlled by a method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;

reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a printing cartridge having a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In an eleventh aspect the present invention provides a pagewidth printhead assembly for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending, substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
Optionally a first surface of the first layer is secured to said body portion and is in fluid contact with the one or more channels of the body portion.

Optionally said first surface has a plurality of ink inlets formed along the length thereof for receiving ink from the one or more channels of the body portion.

Optionally the ink inlets extend through the first layer from said first surface to be in fluid communication with ink outlets formed on a second surface.

Optionally said ink outlets communicate directly with said ink outlets and are in alignment therewith.
Optionally said ink outlets communicate with said ink inlets via channels formed in said second surface, such that said ink outlets are offset with respect to said ink inlets.

Optionally the second layer is attached to the second surface of the first layer.

Optionally the second layer is a laminate polymer film and is laminated to the second surface of the first layer.
Optionally the laminate polymer film is a theremoplastic film such as PET or polysulphone.

Optionally the laminate polymer film is a thermoset film.

5 Optionally each integrated circuit is secured to the second layer by thermal bonding.

Optionally the second layer has a plurality of holes formed therethrough, said holes corresponding to said ink outlets formed in the second surface of the first layer to provide a path for ink to flow to each integrated circuit.

Optionally the second layer has one or more locating marks formed thereon for positioning each integrated 10 circuit such that ink flowing through the said holes is delivered to the corresponding nozzles for printing.
In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
15 wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use 20 in a print engine of the inkjet printer, the print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having the pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a 25 media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkj et printer.
In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead of the assembly is arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead being arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead being arranged for use with a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead of the pagewidth printhead assembly, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;

a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge associated with the printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge associated with the printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;

wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of associated with the printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; wherein the cradle unit is arranged for engagement with a cover assembly comprising:
at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the printhead of the assembly being arranged for use with a cradle unit, having a body complementary to a removable inkj et cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cradle unit is arranged for engagement with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments within a cartridge unit, the cartridge unit being arranged for use with an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments within a cartridge unit, the cartridge unit being arranged for use with an ink priming system comprising:

a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and 5 a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

10 In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a cartridge unit adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill cartridge that is arranged for use with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

15 In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a printing unit, which is adapted for refilling with a supply of printing fluid by a method comprising the steps of removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage 20 chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a cartridge unit adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly 25 comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

30 In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a print engine adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refilling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a print engine adapted for refilling from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use with a printing unit adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge wherein the refilling is controlled by a method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, the assembly being arranged for use in a printing cartridge having a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a twelfth aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead of an inkj et printer comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

Optionally the printhead is provided on a cartridge unit and the mounting element removably mounts the capping assembly to the cartridge unit.

Optionally the mounting element comprises one or more clips projecting from the body which engage with the cartridge unit to removably secure said capping assembly to the cartridge unit.

Optionally the capping assembly is mounted such that a gap is provided between said printhead and said body, said gap being sufficient to enable print media to pass therethrough for printing by said printhead.

Optionally a surface of the body opposite said printhead acts as a media guide, and supports said print media as it passes said printhead for printing.

Optionally the surface has a slot formed therein which extends the length of the body.

Optionally the capping element is movable to project through said slot and across said gap to cap a printing surface of the printhead.

Optionally the printing surface comprises a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver ink onto the passing print media.

Optionally the capping element has an open rim portion which contacts said printing surface of the printhead and seals the nozzles within an internal space of the capping element.

Optionally the internal space of the capping element comprises an absorbent material for receiving ink ejected by the nozzles.

Optionally the capping element is movable to retract into said body to uncap said printhead to enable printing to occur.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;
a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing, the cradle being configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and wherein the pagewidth printhead is mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media, the cartridge unit furrther comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments; and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media, the cartridge unit further comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments, and the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:

a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits; wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
and wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
and wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;

one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes 5 the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
and wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

10 In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each 15 integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
and wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or 20 more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the capping element has a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
and wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second 25 position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the capping element is housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first 30 position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body; and wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the capping element is housed 35 within said body and has a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead, the capping assembly further comprising a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
and wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
and wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the.operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
and wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
and wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is, adapted for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having the pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;wherein the cradle is engageable with a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having thea pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cradle is engageable with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with an ink priming system for a cartridge unit of the type having the pagewidth printhead in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the cartridge unit being configured for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;

an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be used in an inkjet cartridge arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge using a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid by way of a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge by way of dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a print engine adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a fluid refill cartridge, wherein the refilling is controlled by a control system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a print engine adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a fluid refill cartridge, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use with a ithin inkjet cartridge having a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a thirteenth aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead of an inkjet printer comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

Optionally when said capping element is in said first position, the rim portion is in capping contact with a printing surface of the printhead.

Optionally the printing surface comprises a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver ink onto passing print media.

5 Optionally in said first position, the rim portion contacts the printing surface and seals the nozzles within an internal space of the capping element, thereby minimizing exposure of the ink in the nozzles to drying air.
Optionally the internal space of the capping element comprises an absorbent material for receiving ink ejected by the nozzles when said capping element is in the first position.

Optionally the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting the capping assembly to the 10 printhead.

Optionally the capping assembly is mounted such that a gap is provided between said printhead and said body, said gap being sufficient to enable print media to pass therethrough for printing by said printhead Optionally the surface of the body opposite the printhead has a slot formed therein.

Optionally said rim portion projects through said slot and across said gap to be in capping contact with at least 15 a portion of the printhead when said capping element is in the first position.

Optionally when the capping element is in said second position the rim portion retracts into said slot such that it does not project into said gap and allows media to pass therethrough for printing.

Optionally a spring element is provided within said body, and said capping element is supported on said spring element.

20 Optionally the spring element is a resilient member which extends substantially the length of the body.
Optionally the resilient member is formed integral with the body.

Optionally the body is made from metal and said resilient member is pressed from said body.
Optionally the resilient member is metal insert.

Optionally the spring element biases said capping element into said first position.

Optionally in moving from said first position to said second position, the capping element acts against said spring element.

Optionally at least a portion of said capping element contains a magnetic material and movement from the first position to said second position is due to magnetic attraction between the capping element and an external magnetic source.

Optionally the external magnetic source is an electromagnet mounted on the inkjet printer.

Optionally activation of said electromagnet causes said capping element to move between said first and second positions.

Optionally activation of the electromagnet is controlled by a control system of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the inkj et printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;
a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing, the cradle being configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and wherein the pagewidth printhead is mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media, the cartridge unit furrther comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments; and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media, the cartridge unit further comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments, and the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits; wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;

an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
and wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
and wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
and wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
and wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the capping element is housed within said body and is movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ; and wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the capping element is housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body; and wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the capping element is housed within said body and has a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead, the capping assembly further comprising a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;

and wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
and wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
and wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
and wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having the pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; wherein the cradle is engageable with a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a fir ther aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having thea pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;

wherein the cradle is engageable with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with an ink priming system for a cartridge unit of the type having the pagewidth printhead in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the cartridge unit being configured for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be used in an inkjet cartridge arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge using a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid by way of a method comprising the steps of removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;

determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge by way of dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a print engine adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a fluid refill cartridge, wherein the refilling is controlled by a control system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a print engine adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a fluid refill cartridge, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use with a ithin inkjet cartridge having a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a fourteenth aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead of an inkjet printer comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

Optionally the body is mounted to said printhead such that a gap is provided between said printhead and said body, said gap being sufficient to enable print media to pass therethrough for printing by said printhead.
Optionally when said capping element is in said first position the portion of the capping element which extends from the body spans said gap to cap at least a portion of said printhead.

Optionally the portion of the capping element which extends from the body is a rim portion which caps a printing surface of the printhead.

Optionally a surface of the body opposite the printhead has a slot formed therein, through which the rim portion extends.

Optionally said body includes a spring element which biases said capping element into said first position.
Optionally said spring element extends substantially the length of the body and said capping element is supported on said spring element.

Optionally the spring element is one or more resilient metal plates.
Optionally the resilient plates are pressed from the body.

Optionally in moving from said first position to said second position, the capping elements moves against the spring element.

Optionally when said capping element is in said second position the rim portion retracts into said body such that it does not project beyond the slot into said gap.

Optionally wherein at least a portion of said capping element contains a magnetic material and movement from the first position to said second position is due to magnetic attraction between the capping element and an external magnetic source.

Optionally the external magnetic source is an electromagnet mounted on the inkjet printer.

Optionally activation of said electromagnet causes said capping element to move between said first and second positions.

Optionally activation of the electromagnet is controlled by a control system of the inkjet printer.
In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;
a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing, the cradle being configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and wherein the pagewidth printhead is mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media, the cartridge unit furrther comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments; and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media, the cartridge unit further comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments, and the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits; wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;

one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
and wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.
In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
and wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.
In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
and wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;

one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
and wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the capping element is housed within said body and is movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ; and wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a fir ther aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the capping element is housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ; and wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.
In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the capping element is housed within said body and has a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead, the capping assembly further comprising a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
and wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
and wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.
In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
and wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
and wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having the pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cradle is engageable with a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having thea pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;

wherein the cradle is engageable with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.
In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with an ink priming system for a cartridge unit of the type having the pagewidth printhead in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the cartridge unit being configured for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be used in an inkjet cartridge arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge using a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid by way of a method comprising the steps of removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;

determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge by way of dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a print engine adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a fluid refill cartridge, wherein the refilling is controlled by a control system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a print engine adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a fluid refill cartridge, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of:
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use with a ithin inkjet cartridge having a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a fifteenth aspect the present invention provides a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead of an inkjet printer comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
Optionally the predetermined number of nozzles is selected due to the colour of the ink carried within the channel of the body portion Optionally the conduits are provided along the length of each of the channels of the body portion to provide multiple flow paths for the ink to pass to the integrated circuits.

Optionally the conduits are equi-spaced along the length of each of the channels of the body portion.
Optionally the inlets of the conduits have a width less than or substantially equal to the width of the channels formed in the body portion.

Optionally wherein the inlets have a maximum width of less than 1 mm.

Optionally the inlet and outlet of each of the conduits are connected by a tunnel formed within the body of the ink distribution member, said tunnel providing a path for the ink to flow from the inlet to the outlet.
Optionally each integrated circuits has a plurality of delivery channels formed in a surface thereof for delivering the ink to nozzles.

Optionally the delivery channels extend the length of each integrated circuit.

Optionally the number of delivery channels formed in the surface of each integrated circuit is equivalent to the number of channels provided in the body portion.

Optionally each delivery channel is in fluid communication with at least one row of nozzles.

Optionally the outlet of each conduit delivers ink into one of the delivery channels for supplying said ink to said predetermined number of nozzles.

Optionally the outlets of the conduits have a width less than or substantially equal to the width of the delivery channels formed in the surface of the integrated circuits.

Optionally the outlets have a maximum width less than 80 microns.

Optionally the delivery channels have a plurality of walls provided along the length thereof, said walls dividing said delivery channels into a plurality of sections.

Optionally each outlet supplies ink to at least one section of the delivery channels.
Optionally each outlet supplies ink to two sections of the delivery channels.

Optionally the ink distribution member is made from a photo-structurable glass ceramic material.
Optionally the material is forturan glass.

Optionally each integrated circuit is fixed to the ink distribution member via an adhesive.
Optionally the adhesive is supplied to each of the integrated circuits.

Optionally the adhesive is supplied to the surface of the ink distribution member.
Optionally the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;

a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing, the cradle being configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and wherein the pagewidth printhead is mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.
In a further aspect there is provided a pagewidth printhead assembly, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media, the cartridge unit furrther comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments; and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the printhead is arranged for use in a cartridge unit, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly is configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media, the cartridge unit further comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments, and the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits; wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
and wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
and wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
and wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
and wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the capping element is housed within said body and is movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ; and wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the capping element is housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ; and wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the capping element is housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body; and wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
and wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
and wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;

and wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be controlled by a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
and wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having the pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; wherein the cradle is engageable with a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having thea pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein the cradle is engageable with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with an ink priming system for a cartridge unit of the type having the pagewidth printhead in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.
In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead wherein the pagewidth printhead is adapted to be used with a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the cartridge unit being configured for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged to be used in an inkjet cartridge arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge using a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

Ina further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead the pagewidth printhead is arranged within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid by way of a method comprising the steps of removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge by way of dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a print engine adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a fluid refill cartridge, wherein the refilling is controlled by a control system comprising:

an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a print engine adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead, the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use within a printing unit adapted to be refilled with a supply of printing fluid from a fluid refill cartridge, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a capping assembly for capping a pagewidth printhead wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for use with a ithin inkjet cartridge having a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a sixteenth aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;

wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

Optionally the body defines a recess to receive the removable inkjet cartridge.
Optionally the plurality of terminals are located within said recess.

Optionally the controller is in the form of electrical circuitry provided on a printed circuit board, and the plurality of terminals are formed along a surface of the printed circuit board.

Optionally the controller includes one or more SoPEC devices for controlling the operation of the printhead.
Optionally the electrical circuitry is provided upon one surface of the printed circuit board and the plurality of terminals are provided upon an opposite surface of the printed circuit board.

Optionally the electrical circuitry sends electrical signals in the form of data and power signals to the plurality of terminals for transmission to the corresponding terminals on the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with an inkjet printer unit comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and the cradle and wherein the cradle has a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a print engine for an inkjet printer comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and wherein the cradle has a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing, and the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:

a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;

wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the 'ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, wherein the plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, wherein said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, wherein, said body includes a capper assembly and an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use with a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge has a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartment and the cartridge is adapted for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge has a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartment and the cartridge is adapted for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the inkjet cartridge is adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge associated with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a printing unit adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge by way of a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, wherein the inkjet cartridge is adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge associated with a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a print engine adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refilling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a print engine adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a printing unit adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a seventeenth aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

Optionally the body defines a recess to receive the removable inkjet cartridge.

Optionally the plurality of terminals are located within said recess and extend along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge.

Optionally the controller is in the form of electrical circuitry provided on a printed circuit board, and the plurality of terminals are formed along a surface of the printed circuit board.

Optionally the controller includes one or more SoPEC devices for controlling the operation of the printhead.
Optionally the electrical circuitry is provided upon one surface of the printed circuit board and the plurality of terminals are provided upon an opposite surface of the printed circuit board.

Optionally said printed circuit board is mounted between a pair of arms, said arms being pivotally mounted to the body to pivot between an open and a closed position.

Optionally when said arms are pivoted to said open position the plurality of terminals are positioned remote from said corresponding terminals provided on the cartridge and electrical communication ceases between said controller and said cartridge.

Optionally when said arms are in said open position the cartridge is readily removable from said recess.

Optionally when said arms are pivoted to said closed position the plurality of terminals contact the corresponding terminals provided on the cartridge and electrical communication is enabled between said controller and said cartridge.

Optionally said body includes a lid assembly to enclose said recess and said arms are connected to said lid assembly such that movement of said lid between an open and a closed position causes pivotal movement of said arms.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with an inkjet printer unit comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and the cradle and wherein the cradle has a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a print engine for an inkjet printer comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and wherein the cradle has a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing, and the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;

one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;

one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;

a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein, said body includes a capper assembly and an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use with a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge has a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartment and the cartridge is adapted for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge has a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartment and the cartridge is adapted for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the inkjet cartridge is adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge associated with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a printing unit adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge by way of a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the inkjet cartridge is adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge associated with a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a print engine adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refilling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a print engine adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a printing unit adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of:
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In an eighteenth aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the body defines a recess to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and said cover assembly secures the removable inkjet cartridge within said recess.

Optionally the port is shaped to receive at least a portion of the refill unit.

Optionally the port includes a retaining means for engaging with the refill unit to secure the refill unit in position for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the retaining means includes a clip member which engages with a recess provided in refill unit to secure the refill unit in position.

Optionally the port includes a receiver unit arranged therein for engaging with an integrated circuit provided on the refill unit when the refill unit is received by said port.

Optionally the integrated circuit is a quality assurance chip which stores information relating to the type and/or amount of printing fluid contained in said refill unit.

Optionally the reader unit transmits said information to the controller to control the refilling process.
Optionally the cover assembly includes an actuator member arranged therein which operates said refill unit to facilitate refilling of the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the actuator member is a push rod which extends into said port to engage with the refill unit to release ink from the refill unit into said ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally said push rod is activated by a solenoid actuator which is mounted to the body.

Optionally the actuator member is a gear mechanism which meshes with a corresponding gear mechanism provided on the refill unit to facilitate release of ink from the refill unit into said ink supply of the cartridge.
Optionally the gear mechanism is activated by a motor which is mounted to the body.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with an inkjet printer unit comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and the cradle and wherein the cradle has a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a print engine for an inkjet printer comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and wherein the cradle has a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing, and the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;

wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, wherein, said body includes a capper assembly and an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use with a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.
In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge has a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartment and the cartridge is adapted for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge has a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartment and the cartridge is adapted for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the inkjet cartridge is adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge associated with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a printing unit adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge by way of a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, wherein the inkjet cartridge is adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge associated with a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.
In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a print engine adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refilling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a print engine adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a printing unit adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of:
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;

reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.
In a further aspect there is provide a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a nineteenth aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

Optionally the body defines a recess to receive the removable inkjet cartridge.

Optionally the body includes a cover assembly for securing the removable inkjet cartridge within said recess Optionally the cover assembly has a port formed therein through which said refill unit is received for supplying refill ink to the removable inkjet cartridge.

Optionally the port includes a retaining means for engaging with the refill unit to secure the refill unit in position for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the retaining means includes a clip member which engages with a recess provided in refill unit to secure the refill unit in position.

Optionally the port includes a receiver unit arranged therein for engaging with an integrated circuit provided on the refill unit when the refill unit is received by said port.

Optionally the integrated circuit is a quality assurance chip which stores information relating to the type and/or amount of printing fluid contained in said refill unit.

Optionally the reader unit transmits said information to the controller to control the refilling process.

Optionally the refill actuator is provided within the cover assembly and includes an actuator member arranged therein which operates said refill unit to facilitate refilling of the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the actuator member is a push rod which extends into said port to engage with the refill unit to release ink from the refill unit into said ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally said push rod is activated by a solenoid actuator which is mounted to the body.

Optionally the actuator member is a gear mechanism which meshes with a corresponding gear mechanism provided on the refill unit to facilitate release of ink from the refill unit into said ink supply of the cartridge.
Optionally the gear mechanism is activated by a motor which is mounted to the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with an inkjet printer unit comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and the cradle and wherein the cradle has a body adapted to receive the removable ink et cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a print engine for an ink et printer comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and wherein the cradle has a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing, and the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:

a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a f rther aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:

a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:

a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;

a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein, said body includes a capper assembly and an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use with a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge has a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartment and the cartridge is adapted for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;

wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge has a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartment and the cartridge is adapted for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the inkjet cartridge is adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge associated with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a printing unit adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge by way of a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the inkjet cartridge is adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge associated with a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a print engine adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refilling is controlled by a system comprising:

an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a print engine adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a printing unit adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of:
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In twentieth aspect the present invention provides a cradle unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

Optionally the body defines a recess to receive the removable inlget cartridge and the electromagnet assembly is positioned within said recess.

Optionally said electromagnet assembly is positioned within said recess so as to be located proximal the capper assembly of the cartridge when said cartridge is received in said recess.

Optionally activation of said electromagnet assembly by said controller causes the capper assembly to move to an uncapped position remote from said printhead.

Optionally at least a portion of said capper assembly is made from a material with magnetic properties and activation of said electromagnet assembly causes said portion of the capper assembly to move towards said electromagnet assembly.

Optionally deactivation of said electromagnet assembly by said controller causes the capper assembly to return to its capped position which caps a surface of the printhead.

Optionally the surface of the printhead capped by said capper assembly comprises a plurality of ink ejection nozzles for ejecting ink onto a print media surface.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with an inkjet printer unit comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and the cradle and wherein the cradle has a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a print engine for an inkjet printer comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and wherein the cradle has a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing, and the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:

a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to 4 plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
25, wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;

wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a pagewidth printhead adapted to be capped by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use with a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use with a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge has a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartment and the cartridge is adapted for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge has a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartment and the cartridge is adapted for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the inkjet cartridge is adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge associated with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a printing unit adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge by way of a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.
In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the inkjet cartridge is adapted for refilling by a fluid refill cartridge associated with a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a print engine adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refilling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use with a print engine adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, the cradle unit being arranged for use in a printing unit adapted for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cradle unit, wherein the cartridge is associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a twenty first aspct the present invention provides a cover assembly for a cradle unit of an inkjet printer having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; the cover assembly comprising:
at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the port is shaped to receive at least a portion of the refill unit.

Optionally the port includes a retaining means for engaging with the refill unit to secure the refill unit in position for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the retaining means includes a clip member which engages with a recess provided in the refill unit to secure the refill unit in position.

Optionally the port includes a receiver unit arranged therein for engaging with an integrated circuit provided on the refill unit when the refill unit is received by said port.

Optionally the integrated circuit is a quality assurance chip which stores information relating to the type and/or amount of printing fluid contained in said refill unit.

Optionally the reader unit transmits said information to the controller to control the refilling process.
Optionally the cover assembly further comprises an actuator member arranged therein which operates said refill unit to facilitate refilling of the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the actuator member is a push rod which extends into said port to engage with the refill unit to release ink from the refill unit into said ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally said push rod is activated by a solenoid actuator which is mounted to the body of the cradle unit.
Optionally the actuator member is a gear mechanism which meshes with a corresponding gear mechanism provided on the refill unit to facilitate release of ink from the refill unit into said ink supply of the cartridge.
Optionally the gear mechanism is activated by a motor which is mounted to the body of the cradle unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises the removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and the cradle unit having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cradle unit is arranged for use with a print engine comprising:
the removable inkjet cartridge; and the cradle unit having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a=media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;

wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising :
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising :
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising :
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising :
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;

wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cradle unit further comprises a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge; and wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cradle unit further comprises a capper assembly; and wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, the the cover assembly further comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge is arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.
In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge is arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge having a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use in a printing unit that is adapted for refilling with supply of printing fluid using a method comprising the steps of removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is a part of a print engine arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refilling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is a part of a print engine arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is a part of a printing unit arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge, wherein the refilling is controlled by a method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a twenty second aspect the present invention provides a cover assembly for a cradle unit of an inkjet printer having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; the cover assembly comprising:
a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.
Optionally the cover assembly has a port formed therein through which said refill unit is received for supplying refill ink to the removable inkjet cartridge.

Optionally the port includes a retaining means for engaging with the refill unit to secure the refill unit in position for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the retaining means includes a clip member which engages with a recess provided in refill unit to secure the refill unit in position.

Optionally the port includes a receiver unit arranged therein for engaging with an integrated circuit provided on the refill unit when the refill unit is received by said port.

Optionally the integrated circuit is a quality assurance chip which stores information relating to the type and/or amount of printing fluid contained in said refill unit.

Optionally the reader unit transmits said information to the controller to control the refilling process.

Optionally the refill actuator is provided within the cover assembly and includes an actuator member which operates said refill unit to facilitate refilling of the ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally the actuator member is a push rod which extends into said port to engage with the refill unit to release ink from the refill unit into said ink supply of the cartridge.

Optionally said push rod is activated by a solenoid actuator which is mounted to the body of the cradle unit.
Optionally the actuator member is a gear mechanism which meshes with a corresponding gear mechanism provided on the refill unit to facilitate release of ink from the refill unit into said ink supply of the cartridge.
Optionally the gear mechanism is activated by a motor which is mounted to the body of the cradle unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet printer comprises:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises the removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and the cradle unit having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cradle unit is arranged for use with a print engine comprising:
the removable inkjet cartridge; and the cradle unit having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:

a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising :
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising :
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;

wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising :
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising :
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the pagewidth printhead is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cradle unit further comprises a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge; and wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cradle unit further comprises a capper assembly; and wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cover assembly further comprises: at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge is arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge is arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge having a printing fluid dispenser comprising:

a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the cartridge is arranged for use in a printing unit that is adapted for refilling with supply of printing fluid using a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is a part of a print engine arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refilling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is a part of a print engine arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is a part of a printing unit arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge, wherein the refilling is controlled by a method comprising the steps of:

storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a cover assembly, wherein the inkjet cartridge is associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a twenty third aspect the present invention provides an ink priming system for a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

Optionally the ink storage compartment comprises an ink retaining member arranged therein for receiving and storing said ink.

Optionally the ink retaining member is a porous body arranged to absorb the ink supplied to the ink storage compartment through capillary action.

Optionally the ink retaining member is a foam material.

Optionally the printhead assembly comprises one or more ink delivery channels arranged along its length and ink supplied to said priming inlet passes into one of the channels.

Optionally the printhead assembly has a plurality of groups of nozzles provided thereon, each group of nozzles being in fluid communication with one of the ink delivery channels to receive ink therefrom for priming said nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for use in an inkjet printer comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for use in an print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;

one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein a pagewidth printhead in the pagewidth printhead assembly is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein a pagewidth printhead in the pagewidth printhead assembly is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein a pagewidth printhead in the pagewidth printhead assembly is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein a pagewidth printhead in the pagewidth printhead assembly is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is removable and is arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the inkjet cartridge unit; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is removable and is arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the inkjet cartridge unit;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is removable and is arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is removable and is arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is removable, has a capper assembly and is arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the cradle unit being adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising:
at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is a removable and is arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the cradle unit being adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising:
a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.
In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, the system further comprising:
a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge having a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for use in a printing unit that is adapted for refilling with supply of printing fluid using a method comprising the steps of.
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is a part of a print engine arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refilling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is a part of a print engine arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is a part of a printing unit arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge, wherein the refilling is controlled by a method comprising the steps of:
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a twenty fourth aspect the present invention provides an ink priming system for a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

Optionally the ink storage compartment comprises an ink retaining member arranged therein for receiving and storing said ink.

Optionally the ink retaining member is a porous body arranged to absorb the ink supplied to the ink storage compartment through capillary action.

Optionally the ink retaining member is a foam material.

Optionally the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage deliver the ink to different regions of the ink retainer member to facilitate faster priming of the ink retainer member.

Optionally the printhead assembly comprises one or more ink delivery channels arranged along its length and ink supplied to said priming inlet passes into one of the channels.

Optionally the printhead assembly has a plurality of groups of nozzles provided thereon, each group of nozzles being in fluid communication with one of the ink delivery channels to receive ink therefrom for priming said nozzles.

Optionally the bypass flow passage incorporates a bypass valve which is activated to open or close the bypass flow passage.

Optionally following priming of the ink storage compartment the bypass valve is closed thereby preventing further ink flow through the bypass flow passage.

Optionally the bypass valve is provided in the wall of the bypass flow passage in the form of a depressible region of the wall, and the bypass valve is closed by depressing the depressible region so as to block the bypass flow passage.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for use in an inkjet printer comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for use in an print engine comprising:

a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit comprises:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;

a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.
In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the pagewidth printhead assembly comprises:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein a pagewidth printhead in the pagewidth printhead assembly is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein a pagewidth printhead in the pagewidth printhead assembly is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein a pagewidth printhead in the pagewidth printhead assembly is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:

a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein a pagewidth printhead in the pagewidth printhead assembly is arranged for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is removable and is arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the inkjet cartridge unit; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is removable and is arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the inkjet cartridge unit;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is removable and is arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;

wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is removable and is arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is removable, has a capper assembly and is arranged for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to the inkjet cartridge; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the cradle unit being adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising:
at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is a removable and is arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the cradle unit being adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising:
a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge having a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for use in a printing unit that is adapted for refilling with supply of printing fluid using a method comprising the steps of.
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is a part of a print engine arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the refilling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is a part of a print engine arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is a part of a printing unit arranged for refilling by a printing fluid refill cartridge, wherein the refilling is controlled by a method comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;

reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided an ink priming system, wherein the cartridge unit is associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a twenty fifth aspect the present invention provides a printing fluid dispenser for a printing fluid refill cartridge comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.
Optionally the amount of the printing fluid selected by the selector is an amount selected from a set of discrete amounts of the printing fluid.

Optionall ythe set of discrete amounts comprises amounts at about 6 ml intervals in a range of from 6 ml to 50 ml.

Optionally the selector is arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body so as to dispense the selected amount of the stored printing fluid.

Optionall there is provided a dispenser, wherein:
the selector comprises a series of grooves and a retaining member selectively engageable with each of the grooves; and each selectively engageable position of the retaining member with the grooves provides a different amount of change of the storage capacity of the body.

Optionally the series of grooves are arranged in a row along a surface of the selector and the retaining member is pivotable with respect to the grooves, said relative pivoting providing the selective engagement of the retaining member with the grooves.

Optionally the series of grooves are arranged in a substantially circular loop and are rotatable with respect to the retaining member and the body, said relative rotation providing the selective engagement of the retaining member with the grooves.

Optionally the retaining member is pivotable with respect to the grooves so as to engage and disengage therefrom, the grooves being able to rotate when the retaining member is disengaged and being prevented from rotating when the retaining member is engaged.

Optionally the selector comprises:
a plunger arranged to seal with an open end of the body opposite the outlet and to plunge into the interior of the body;
an urging member arranged about the plunger so as to urge the plunger into the body;
a rotatable shaft having the substantially circular loop of grooves about one end and a grooved thread about the other end; and a linking member attached to the grooved thread at one end and to the plunger at the other end so as to be windable into the grooved thread and about the shaft, the urging member causing the rotation of the shaft and thereby the grooves via the linking member when the retaining member is disengaged with the grooves.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispenser further comprising a plunger having a toothed helical thread which engages with a screw thread provided in an internal wall of the body, wherein:
the selector comprises a drive gear associated with a driving device; and rotation of the drive gear is imparted to the toothed thread so as to rotate the plunger within the screw thread of the body thereby changing the storage capacity of the body.

Optionally the body incorporates a collapsible reservoir storing the printing fluid and having the outlet at one end thereof.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispenser, further comprising an aperture removably engageable with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of a printing unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispenser, further comprising means to determine an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber, wherein the amount of printing fluid to be dispensed is selected by the selector to correspond to the determined amount.

Optionally the aperture comprises a syringe needle arranged to penetrate a valve seal of the chamber inlet so as to dispense the stored printing fluid therethrough.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispenser, further comprising a securing arrangement for removably securing the aperture with the chamber inlet.

Optionally the securing arrangement incorporates at least one first engagement member arranged to be removably engageable with at least one second engagement member of the printing unit.

Optionally the second engagement member is a slot and the first engagement member is a movable protrusion engageable with the slot.

Optionally the securing arrangement further incorporates a movable region of a wall of the body which is arranged with the first engagement member, whereby movement of the movable region provides engagement and disengagement of the first and second engagement members.

Optionally the movable region incorporates a depressible region of the body wall.

Optionally the printing unit is a printer cartridge which is mountable to a printer and incorporates a printhead.
Optionally a controller of the printer cartridge is arranged to control the selector so as to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed, the selected amount being sufficient for refilling the printing fluid storage chamber.

Optionally the printing fluid is ink or ink fixative.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged to print printing fluid across the width of sheets of print media.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged as a two-dimensional array of at least 50,000 printing nozzles for printing across the width of sheets of print media.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting at least 1200 drops of printing fluid per inch across the width of the sheets.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting drops of printing fluid across the width of the sheets with a drop ejection energy of less than about 250 nanojoules per drop.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged to print printing fluid across the width of sheets of print media at a rate of at least 60 sheets per minute.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting drops of printing fluid across the width of the sheets at a rate of at least 500 million drops per second.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use in an inkjet printer comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with a print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:

a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removableinkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:

a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the removable cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the cradle unit being adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the removable cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the cradle unit being adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with a removable inkjet cartridge unit of a type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the removable cartridge unit being arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with a removable inkjet cartridge unit of a type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the removable cartridge unit being arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;

an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for refilling a printing unit with supply of printing fluid, the method of refilling comprising the steps of removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, the printing fluid refill cartridge having a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is a refill unit arranged for use with a print engine and the refilling is controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information'read.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for refilling a printing unit, wherein the refilling is controlled by a method comprising the steps of storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid dispenser, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for refilling an inkjet cartridge associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a twenty sixth aspect the present invention provides a method of refilling a supply of printing fluid in a printing unit, comprising the steps of removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

Optionally the dispensing step comprises selecting an amount of the printing fluid from a set of discrete amounts of the printing fluid which is equal to or less than the determined amount.

Optionally the set of discrete amounts comprises amounts at about 6 ml intervals in a range of from 6 ml to 50 ml.

Optionally the dispensing step comprises selectively changing the storage capacity of the dispenser so as to dispense the selected amount of printing fluid.

Optionally the printing unit is a printer cartridge which is mountable to a printer and incorporates a printhead.
Optionally in the determining step, a controller of the printer cartridge is used to determine the amount of printing fluid needed for refilling.

Optionally the dispensing step comprises controlling the selection of the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed with the controller of the printer cartridge.

Optionally the determining step comprises continuously determining the amount of printing fluid contained in the printing fluid storage chamber and the dispensing step comprises continuously dispensing the printing fluid until it is determined in the determining step that the printing storage chamber is full.

Optionally the printing fluid is ink or ink fixative.

Optionally the printing unit is an inkjet printer comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;

a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:

a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:

a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises. a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body comprises a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;

a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a fir ther aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the printing unit also comprising a cover assembly for the cradle unit, the cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the printing unit also comprising a cover assembly for the cradle unit, the cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments and an ink priming system for the cartridge unit, the priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments and an ink priming system for the cartridge unit, the priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the dispenser comprises:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the step of selective dispensing involves the use of a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the method is related to refilling of a print engine of the print unit from a printing fluid refill unit, the refilling being controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the method is related to refilling of a print engine of the print unit from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the refilling of the printing unit involves a printing fluid refill cartridge and the refilling is controlled by a method comprising the steps of:
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;

reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a twenty seventh aspect the present invention provides a dispensing assembly for a printing fluid refill cartridge, the dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.
Optionally the plunger is arranged to seal with an open end of the body opposite the outlet, the assembly further comprising an urging member for constantly urging the plunger into the interior of the body.

Optionally the retaining member is configured so as provide sufficient retaining force of the position of the plunger with respect to the body through its engagement with the grooves against the urging force provided by the urging member.

Optionally the body, the plunger and the urging member are arranged in a housing of the refill cartridge, the urging member being arranged between an internal surface of the housing and the plunger.

Optionally the urging member incorporates a compression spring.

Optionally the retaining member is mounted within the housing so as to be rotatable and so as to have one end engageable with the grooves and an opposite end engageable with an actuator for causing the rotation of the retaining member and thereby causing the engagement and disengagement of the retaining member with the grooves.

Optionally the actuator is incorporated in a printing unit to which the refill cartridge is mounted for refilling.

Optionally the selected amount of printing fluid is an amount selected from a set of discrete amounts of the printing fluid.

Optionally the set of discrete amounts comprises amounts at about 6 ml intervals in a range of from 6 ml to 50 ml.

Optionally the printing unit incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged to print printing fluid across the width of sheets of print media.

Optionally the printing unit incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged as a two-dimensional array of at least 50,000 printing nozzles for printing across the width of sheets of print media.

Optionally the printing unit incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting at least 1200 drops of printing fluid per inch across the width of the sheets.

Optionally the printing unit incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting drops of printing fluid across the width of the sheets with a drop ejection energy of less than about 250 nanojoules per drop.

Optionally the printing unit incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged to print printing fluid across the width of sheets of print media at a rate of at least 60 sheets per minute.

Optionally the printing unit incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting drops of printing fluid across the width of the sheets at a rate of at least 500 million drops per second.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use in an inkjet printer comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with a print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkj et printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:

a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;

a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the removable cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the cradle unit being adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the removable cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, wherein the cradle unit is adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with a removable inkjet cartridge unit of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge unit being arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with a removable inkjet cartridge unit of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge unit being arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, the assembly comprising a printing fluid dispenser for the printing fluid refill cartridge, the dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the refill cartridge is arranged for use in a method of refilling a supply of printing fluid in a printing unit, the method comprising the steps of removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is a refill unit arranged for refilling of a print engine, the refilling being controlled by a system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for refilling a printing unit, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of:
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a dispensing assembly, wherein the printing fluid refill cartridge is arranged for use with an inkjet cartridge associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a twenty eighth aspect the present invention provides a system for controlling refilling of a print engine by a printing fluid refill unit, comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

Optionally the information reader is arranged to control the refilling by controlling the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed by the refill unit.

Optionally the print engine comprises a printhead cartridge unit which is mountable to a cradle unit.
Optionally the information reader incorporates a print engine controller of the printhead cartridge unit which is arranged to control the printing performed by the printhead, a connector of the print engine controller being arranged to contact a connector of the information storage element of the refill unit when the refill unit is mounted to the cartridge unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein:
the print engine has a plurality of chambers which each store a different type of printing fluid for distribution to a printhead; and the information reader is arranged to store information on the type of printing fluid stored in each of the chambers.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein:
the storage element stores information on the type of printing fluid contained in the refill unit;
the refill unit has an outlet for engaging with a refill port of one of the chambers through which the printing fluid contained in the refill unit is dispensable; and the information reader is arranged to check that the chamber with which the outlet is engaged stores the type of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and to control the refilling based on that check.

Optionally the type of printing fluid includes black ink, cyan ink, magenta ink, yellow ink, infrared ink and ink fixative.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, further comprising a sensor for sensing the engagement of the outlet with the refill port, wherein the information reader is arranged to control the refilling in response to the sensor sensing the engagement.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein:
the refill unit has a securing arrangement for removably securing the refill unit to the print engine;
and the information reader is arranged to control the refilling in response to the securement.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged to print printing fluid across the width of sheets of print media.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged as a two-dimensional array of at least 50,000 printing nozzles for printing across the width of sheets of print media.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting at least 1200 drops of printing fluid per inch across the width of the sheets.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting drops of printing fluid across the width of the sheets with a drop ejection energy of less than about 250 nanojoules per drop.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged to print printing fluid across the width of sheets of print media at a rate of at least 60 sheets per minute.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting drops of printing fluid across the width of the sheets at a rate of at least 500 million drops per second.

Optionally the print engine is arranged for use in a printing unit comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
the print engine; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;

In a further aspect there is provided a system wherein the print engine comprises:

a removable inkj et cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth,printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprising an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:

a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit; ' wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;

one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.
In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a f rther aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:

a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said' body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the removable cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the cradle unit being adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the removable cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, wherein the cradle unit is adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge unit of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge unit being arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge unit of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge unit being arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge adapted for refilling by the fluid refill unit, the unit being arranged for use with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the printing unit is arranged for refilling with a supply of printing fluid by way of a method comprising the steps of.
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the printing fluid refill unit is a printing fluid refill cartridge arranged for use with a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the printing fluid refill unit comprises an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the refill unit is arranged for refilling the printing unit, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of:
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a system, wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge adapted for refilling by the fluid refill unit, the inkjet cartridge being associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a twenty ninth aspect the present invention provides a printing fluid refill unit for a print engine, comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, further comprising a selector for selecting an amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed by the refill unit, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the selector so as to dispense a selected amount of the printing fluid.

Optionally the information storage element is updateable, the information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit being updated during and after refilling has been performed.

Optionally the print engine comprises a printhead cartridge which is mountable to a cradle unit.

Optionally the information reader incorporates a print engine controller of the print engine which is arranged to control the printing performed by the printhead, a connector of the information storage element being arranged to contact a connector of the print engine controller when the refill unit is mounted to the printer cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, further comprising:
an outlet for engaging with a refill port of the print engine through which the printing fluid contained in the refill unit is dispensable; and a sensor for sensing the engagement of the outlet with the refill port.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged to print printing fluid across the width of sheets of print media.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged as a two-dimensional array of at least 50,000 printing nozzles for printing across the width of sheets of print media.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting at least 1200 drops of printing fluid per inch across the width of the sheets.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting drops of printing fluid across the width of the sheets with a drop ejection energy of less than about 250 nanojoules per drop.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged to print printing fluid across the width of sheets of print media at a rate of at least 60 sheets per minute.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of printing fluid ejecting nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting drops of printing fluid across the width of the sheets at a rate of at least 500 million drops per second.

Optionally the print engine is arranged for use in an inkjet printer unit comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
the print engine; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

Optionally the print engine comprises:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;

an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;

wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead adapted for capping by a capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge adapted for use with a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the removable cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the cradle unit being adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge being arranged for use with a cradle unit having a body complementary to the removable cartridge and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, wherein the cradle unit is adapted for covering by a cover assembly comprising a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge unit of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge unit being arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge unit of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the removable cartridge unit being arranged for priming by an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge adapted for refilling by the fluid refill unit, the unit being arranged for use with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine is arranged for refilling by the refill unit via a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the printing fluid refill unit is a printing fluid refill cartridge arranged for use with a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine is refilled by the refill unit and the refilling is controlled by a system, comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the refill unit is arranged for refilling the print engine, the refilling being controlled by a method comprising the steps of storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a refill unit, wherein the print engine comprises an inkjet cartridge having a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a thirtieth aspect the present invention provides a method of controlling refilling of a printing unit by a printing fluid refill cartridge, comprising the steps of :
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

Optionally there is provided a method, wherein:
the mounting step comprises engaging a refill port of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit with an outlet of the refill cartridge through which the printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge is dispensable; and the reading step comprises reading information on the level of printing fluid contained in the chamber; and the controlling step comprises dispensing discrete amounts of the printing fluid through the outlet of the refill cartridge until it is determined in the reading step that the chamber is substantially full or until the refill cartridge has been depleted.

Optionally there is provided a method, wherein:
the mounting step comprises engaging a refill port of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit with an outlet of the refill cartridge through which the printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge is dispensable; and the controlling step comprises continuously monitoring the level of printing fluid contained in the chamber and dispensing the printing fluid through the outlet of the refill cartridge until the chamber is substantially full or until the refill cartridge has been depleted.

Optionally there is provided a method, wherein:
the mounting step comprises securing the refill cartridge to the printing unit with a securing arrangement; and the controlling step comprises checking whether the securing step has been performed before refilling is performed.

Optionally there is provided a method, wherein the controlling step comprises updating the information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge as stored in the information storage element during and after refilling has been performed.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit is an inkjet printer comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a print engine comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;

a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises an inkjet cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;
wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body comprises a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;
wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the pagewidth printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;

wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body comprises a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and comprises a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body comprises an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the printing unit also comprising a cover assembly for the cradle unit, wherein the cover assembly comprises at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing, the printing unit also comprising a cover assembly for the cradle unit, wherein the cover assembly comprises a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, and an ink priming system for the cartridge unit, the priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, and an ink priming system for the cartridge unit, the priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the refill cartridge is arranged for use with a printing fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the refilling of the supply of printing fluid in the printing unit is performed by a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the refill cartridge is arranged for use with a dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the method is related to refilling of a print engine in the print unit from the refill unit and is associate with a system for controlling the refilling, the system comprising:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the refill cartridge is printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a method wherein the printing unit comprises a removable ink et cartridge associated with a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

In a thirty first aspect the present invention provides a printing fluid storage device comprising a porous body having a plurality of individual channels arranged in an array to store printing fluid and supply the stored printing fluid to at least one printing fluid ejecting nozzle of a printhead of a printer unit, wherein a first end of each of the channels is in fluid communication with a printing fluid supply to extract printing fluid from the fluid supply for storage therein under capillary action and the stored printing fluid is supplied to the at least one nozzle under capillary action.

Optionally at least some of the plurality of channels are arranged in an ordered array in the porous body.
Optionally the printing fluid supply is incorporated in the printer unit.

Optionally the printing fluid supply is detachable from the printer unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a printing fluid storage device, further comprising a printing fluid trapping layer arranged between the first end of each of the channels and the printing fluid supply so as to trap printing fluid from the printing fluid supply for extraction to the channels.

Optionally the trapping layer is also arranged between the first end of each of the channels and the at least one nozzle.

Optionally the trapping layer incorporates porous foam or sponge material.

Optionally each channel has substantially rigid walls continuously connecting the first and second ends thereof Optionally each channel has a diameter of about 10 micrometres or less.

Optionally the porous body is formed of a polymer selected from the group consisting of polycarbonate, acrylic, polysulfone, polystyrene, fluoropolymer, cyclic olefin polymer and cyclic olefin copolymer.
Optionally the surroundings to which the second end of each of the channels is open is substantially filled with air.

Optionally the printing fluid is ink.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged to print printing fluid across the width of sheets of print media.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged as a two-dimensional array of at least 50,000 nozzles for printing across the width of sheets of print media.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of the nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting at least 1200 drops of printing fluid per inch across the width of the sheets.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of the nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting drops of printing fluid across the width of the sheets with a drop ejection energy of less than about 250 nanojoules per drop.

Optionally the printhead incorporates a pagewidth printhead arranged to print printing fluid across the width of sheets of print media at a rate of at least 60 sheets per minute.

Optionally the printhead incorporates an array of the nozzles configured as a pagewidth printhead arranged to print on sheets of print media by ejecting drops of printing fluid across the width of the sheets at a rate of at least 500 million drops per second.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, wherein the printer unit is an inkjet printer unit comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a print engine for printing an image on said print media; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media;
wherein the print engine comprises a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device arranged for use in a print engine for an inkjet printer comprising:
a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a cradle having a body adapted to receive the removable inkjet cartridge and to control the operation of the printhead for printing;
wherein the cradle is configured to be secured to the inkjet printer to receive print media from a media input tray and to deliver printed media to a media output tray.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device arranged for use in a cartridge unit for an inkjet printer comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments and to distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion having one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly mountable to said body portion and configured to receive ink from the one or more compartments for printing; and a capper unit mountable to said body portion so as to extend along the length of the printhead assembly, the capper unit housing a capping element which is movable with respect to the capper unit to contact a surface of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a cartridge unit comprising:
a body portion housing one or more ink storage compartments;
a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from the one or more ink storage compartments and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
and an electrical connector in electrical communication with the nozzles of the printhead assembly and disposed along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding connectors of the inkjet printer to control operation of the nozzles.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a cartridge unit:
a body portion having a plurality of ink storage compartments; and a pagewidth printhead assembly configured to receive ink from ink storage compartments and distribute said ink to a plurality of nozzles arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media;
wherein the ink storage compartments comprise an absorption material which stores the ink therein under capillary action for supply to the nozzles of the printhead assembly.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
a plurality of integrated circuits extending the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed in rows thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the integrated circuits are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the integrated circuits;

wherein the integrated circuits are aligned in an abutting arrangement across the length of the ink distribution member.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a removable inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit are fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein the body portion has one or more connectors formed thereon for securing the printhead assembly to the one or more ink sources to facilitate ink flow therebetween.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a removable inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and distributing the ink along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles formed thereon, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to the nozzles of the or each integrated circuit;
wherein an electrical connector in electrical communication with the or each integrated circuit extends along the length of the printhead assembly for mating with a corresponding electrical connector of the inkjet printer.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a removable inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, the or each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which the or each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member is a unitary element having a plurality of conduits formed therethrough, each of the conduits having an inlet which receives ink from one of the channels of the body portion and an outlet which delivers the ink to a predetermined number of nozzles of the one or more integrated circuits.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a removable inkjet cartridge having a pagewidth printhead assembly comprising:
a body portion for receiving ink from one or more ink sources and having one or more channels formed therein for distributing the ink substantially along the length of the printhead assembly;
one or more integrated circuits extending substantially the length of the printhead assembly, each integrated circuit having a plurality of nozzles, each of the nozzles being arranged in use to deliver the ink onto passing print media; and an ink distribution member upon which each integrated circuit is fixed and which distributes the ink from the body portion to each of the integrated circuits;
wherein the ink distribution member comprises a first layer which directs the ink from the one or more channels of the body portion for delivery to each integrated circuit, and a second layer attached to said first layer for receiving and securing each integrated circuit in a position to receive the ink from the first layer.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in cartridge having a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to the body to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the body includes a mounting element for removably mounting said capping assembly to said printhead.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in cartridge having a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body, said capping element having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of said printhead ;
wherein, the capping element is movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where said rim portion extends from said body, and said second position being where said rim portion is contained within said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in cartridge having a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead; and a capping element housed within said body and movable with respect to said body between a first and a second position, said first position being where a portion of the capping element extends from said body, and said second position being where said capping element is contained within said body;

wherein, the capping element is biased into said first position.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in cartridge having a pagewidth printhead and a capping assembly for capping the printhead, the capping assembly comprising:
a body configured to extend the length of the printhead;
a capping element housed within said body and having a rim portion adapted to cap at least a portion of the printhead;
a displacement assembly housed within the body for moving the capping element between a first position where the rim portion of the capping element extends from said body, and a second position where the rim portion of the capping element is contained within the body;
wherein, the displacement assembly is controlled by an electromagnet which determines the position.
In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, wherein the printer unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, a plurality of terminals are located along the length of the body to contact corresponding terminals located along the length of the removable inkjet cartridge to enable electrical communication between the controller and the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, wherein the printer unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply;
a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with said controller for transmitting control signals from said controller to corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge;
wherein said plurality of terminals are arranged to pivotally engage with said corresponding terminals provided on said cartridge when said cartridge is received by said body.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, wherein the printer unit comprises a cradle=unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes a cover assembly for enclosing the removable inkjet cartridge within the body, said cover assembly having at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, wherein the printer unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and a refillable ink supply; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body is configured to receive a refill unit for supplying refill ink to the cartridge and includes a refill actuator for dispensing ink from said refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, wherein the printer unit comprises a cradle unit comprising:
a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead, an ink supply and a capper assembly; and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing;
wherein, said body includes an electromagnet assembly mounted thereto which is controlled by said controller for operating said capper assembly of the removable inkjet cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, wherein the printer unit comprises a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; the cradle unit being arranged to be covered by a cover assembly comprising:
at least one port formed therein through which a refill unit is received for refilling the. ink supply of the cartridge.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, wherein the printer unit comprises a cradle unit having a body complementary to a removable inkjet cartridge of a type having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, and a controller for controlling the operation of the printhead to facilitate printing; the cradle unit being arranged to be covered by a cover assembly comprising:
a refill actuator for dispensing ink from an ink refill unit into said refillable ink supply.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the cartridge being arranged for priming by way of an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit; and an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the cartridge being arranged for priming by way of an ink priming system comprising:
a priming inlet provided on said printhead assembly for receiving a supply of ink for priming the cartridge unit;
an ink flow passage providing fluid connection between said printhead assembly and one of the ink storage compartments; and a bypass flow passage providing additional fluid connection between the ink flow passage and the ink storage compartment;
wherein the ink supplied to the priming inlet of the printhead assembly flows from the printhead assembly to the ink storage compartment via the ink flow passage and the bypass flow passage to prime both the printhead assembly and the ink storage compartment with ink simultaneously.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the cartridge being arranged for refilling from a printing fluid refill cartridge, the refill cartridge having a fluid dispenser comprising:
a body storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a selector arranged to select the amount of the printing fluid to be dispensed from the body.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a inkjet cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the inkjet cartridge being arranged for refilling with a supply of printing fluid by a printing fluid refill cartridge by way of a method comprising the steps of:
removably mounting a dispenser of printing fluid to the printing unit so as to align an outlet of the dispenser with an inlet of a printing fluid storage chamber of the printing unit;
determining an amount of printing fluid needed to substantially refill the printing fluid storage chamber; and selectively dispensing an amount of printing fluid from the dispenser corresponding to the determined amount.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a cartridge unit of the type having a pagewidth printhead assembly in fluid communication with one or more ink storage compartments, the cartridge being arranged for refilling with a supply of printing fluid by a printing fluid refill cartridge having dispensing assembly comprising:
a body for storing printing fluid having an outlet through which the printing fluid is dispensed; and a plunger arranged to selectively change the storage capacity of the body and expel the printing fluid through said outlet by selective engagement of a movable retaining member with a series of grooves arranged along a surface of the plunger, thereby dispensing a selected amount of printing fluid from the outlet.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a print engine arranged for refilling with a supply of printing fluid by a printing fluid refill unit, wherein the system for controlling refilling of the print engine by the printing fluid refill unit comprises:
an information storage element incorporated in the refill unit for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit; and an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine and for controlling the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit based on the information read.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the device being arranged for use in a print engine arranged for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill unit comprising an information storage element for storing information on the amount of printing fluid contained in the refill unit and for connecting with an information reader incorporated in the print engine for reading the information stored by the storage element when the refill unit is mounted to the print engine, wherein the information stored by the storage element enables the reader to control the refilling of the print engine with the printing fluid contained in the refill unit.

In a further aspect there is provided a storage device, the printing unit being arranged for refilling with a supply of printing fluid from a printing fluid refill cartridge, wherein the refilling is controlled by a method comprising the steps of:
storing information on an amount of printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge in an information storage element incorporated therein;
mounting the refill cartridge to the printing unit;
reading the information on the amount of printing fluid with an information reader incorporated in the printing unit; and controlling the refilling of the printing unit with printing fluid contained in the refill cartridge based on the information read.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the drawings:
Fig. 1 shows a front perspective view of a printer unit employing a print engine according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 shows the printer unit of Fig. 1 with the lid open exposing the print engine;
Fig. 3 shows a schematic of document data flow in a printing system according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 4 shows a more detailed schematic showing an architecture used in the printing system of Fig. 3;
Fig. 5 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of the control electronics as used in the printing system of Fig. 3;

Fig. 6 shows an exploded perspective view of a print engine according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 7 shows the print engine of Fig. 6 with cartridge unit inserted in the cradle unit;
Fig. 8 shows the cradle unit of Fig. 7 with the cover assembly in the closed position;
Fig. 9 shows a front perspective view of the cartridge unit of Fig. 7;
Fig. 10 shows a front perspective view of the underside of the cartridge unit of Fig. 9;
Fig. 11 shows an exploded perspective view of the cartridge unit of Fig. 7;
Fig. 12 shows an alternative exploded view of the cartridge unit of Fig. 7;
Fig. 13 shows a front perspective view of the main body of the cartridge unit of Fig. 7 with the lid assembly removed;
Fig. 14 shows an exploded front perspective view of the main body of Fig. 13;
Fig. 15 shows a sectional side view of the main body of Fig. 13;
Fig. 16 shows an example of an ink storage arrangement for use in the cartridge unit of Fig. 9 according to one embodiment;
Fig. 17 shows a cross-sectional view of an ink storage compartment employing the ink storage arrangement of Fig. 16 Fig. 18 shows a front perspective view of a printhead assembly suitable for use with the cartridge unit of Fig. 9;
Fig. 19 shows a front perspective view of the underside of the printhead assembly of Fig. 18;
Fig. 20 shows an exploded view of the printhead assembly of Fig. 18;
Fig. 21 shows a cross-sectional end view of the printhead assembly of Fig. 18;
Fig. 22 shows a simplified schematic depiction of linked integrated circuits according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 23 shows a simplified schematic depiction of two linked integrated circuits employing a right angled join;
Figs. 24a and 24b show a schematic depiction of two linked integrated circuits employing an angled join;
Fig. 25 shows a simplified schematic depiction of two linked integrated circuits employing a vertical offset join;
Fig. 26 shows a simplified schematic depiction of two linked integrated circuits employing a sloped placement join;
Figs. 27a and 27b show a simplified schematic drawing of two linked integrated circuits employing a dropped triangle nozzle join;
Fig. 28a shows a magnified perspective view of an integrated circuit as shown in Figs. 27a and 27b employing a dropped triangle nozzle arrangement;
Fig. 28b shows a magnified perspective view of the join between two integrated circuits employing the nozzle arrangement of Fig. 28a;
Fig. 28c shows an underside view of the integrated circuit of Fig. 28a;

Fig. 29 shows an exploded perspective view of an alternative printhead assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 30 shows a partly assembled perspective view of the printhead assembly of Fig. 29;
Fig. 31 shows a plurality of holes being laser drilled into the adhesive layer of the printhead assembly of Fig. 29;
Fig. 32 shows a plurality of integrated circuits being arranged along the surface of the adhesive layer of Fig. 31;
Figs. 33a - 33c show various views of a portion of an ink distribution member according to a further embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 34a shows a transparent top view of a printhead assembly employing the ink distribution member of Figs. 33a-33c showing in particular, the ink passages for supplying ink to the integrated circuits;
Fig. 34b shows an enlarged view of Fig. 34a;
Fig. 35 shows a schematic view of a priming arrangement for priming an ink storage compartment of the present invention;
Fig. 36 shows a schematic view of an alternative priming arrangement for priming an ink storage compartment of the present invention;
Fig. 37 shows a schematic view of the priming arrangement of Fig. 36 with the bypass valve in the closed position;
Fig. 38 shows a schematic view of yet another alternative priming arrangement for priming an ink storage compartment of the present invention;
Fig. 39 shows a schematic view of the alternative priming arrangement of Fig.
38 with the bypass valve in a closed position.
Fig. 40 shows yet another alternative arrangement for priming the ink storage compartment of the present invention, employing a needle which passes through the side wall of the compartment;
Fig. 41 shows a vertical sectional view of a single nozzle for ejecting ink, for use with the invention, in a quiescent state;
Fig. 42 shows a vertical sectional view of the nozzle of Fig. 41 during an initial actuation phase;
Fig. 43 shows a vertical sectional view of the nozzle of Fig. 42 later in the actuation phase;
Fig. 44 shows a perspective partial vertical sectional view of the nozzle of Fig. 41, at the actuation state shown in Fig. 43;
Fig. 45 shows a perspective vertical section of the nozzle of Fig. 41, with ink omitted;
Fig. 46 shows a vertical sectional view of the of the nozzle of Fig. 45;
Fig. 47 shows a perspective partial vertical sectional view of the nozzle of Fig. 41, at the actuation state shown in Fig. 42;
Fig. 48 shows a plan view of the nozzle of Figure 41;
Fig. 49 shows a plan view of the nozzle of Figure 41 with the lever arm and movable nozzle removed for clarity;
Fig. 50 shows a perspective vertical sectional view of a part of a printhead chip incorporating a plurality of the nozzle arrangements of the type shown in Fig. 41;

Fig. 51 shows a schematic cross-sectional view through an ink chamber of a single nozzle for injecting ink of a bubble forming heater element actuator type.
Figs. 52(a) to 52(c) show the basic operational principles of a thermal bend actuator;
Fig. 53 shows a three dimensional view of a single ink jet nozzle arrangement constructed in accordance with Fig. 22;
Fig. 54 shows an array of the nozzle arrangements shown in Figure 53;
Fig. 55 shows a schematic showing CMOS drive and control blocks for use with the printer of the present invention;
Fig. 56 shows a schematic showing the relationship between nozzle columns and dot shift registers in the CMOS blocks of Fig. 55;
Fig. 57 shows a more detailed schematic showing a unit cell and its relationship to the nozzle columns and dot shift registers of Fig. 56;
Fig. 58 shows a circuit diagram showing logic for a single printer nozzle in the printer of the present invention;
Fig. 59 shows a front perspective view of a lid assembly of a cartridge unit according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 60 shows a front perspective view of the underside of the lid assembly of Fig. 59;
Fig. 61 shows an exploded front perspective view of the lid assembly of Fig.
59;
Fig. 62 shows a front perspective view of a capper assembly of a cartridge unit according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 63 shows an exploded front perspective view of the capper assembly of Fig. 62;
Fig. 64 shows an exploded front perspective view of the underside of the capper assembly of Fig. 62;
Fig. 65 shows a sectional end view of the capper assembly of Fig. 62;
Fig 66 shows a sectional perspective view of the capper assembly operationally mounted to the cartridge unit of the present invention in a capped state;
Fig 67 shows a sectional perspective view of the capper assembly operationally mounted to the cartridge unit of the present invention in an uncapped state;
Figs. 68a - 68d show various perspective views of the frame structure of the cradle unit according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 69 shows a perspective front view of a cartridge unit support member of the cradle unit according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 70 shows a perspective side view of the frame structure of Figs. 68a -68d with the cartridge unit support member of Fig. 69 attached thereto;
Figs. 71a - 71b show various views of the idle roller assembly of the cradle unit according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 72 shows a sectional side view of the idle roller assembly of Figs. 71a -71b mounted to the cartridge support member of Fig. 69;
Figs. 73a and 73b show front and back perspective views of the PCB assembly of the present invention having the control circuitry mounted thereto for controlling the print engine of the present invention;

Figs. 74a - 74c show various views of the PCB assembly of Figs. 73a and 73b mounted between arm supports;
Figs. 75a and 75b show a support bar assembly for the PCB assembly of Figs.
73a and 73b in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 76 shows a perspective view of the support bar assembly of Figs. 75a and 75b assembled to the PCB assembly of Figs. 74a- 74c;
Fig. 77a and 77b shows perspective views of the assembly of Fig. 76 attached to the cradle unit of the present invention;
Fig. 78a - 78c show various views of the cover assembly of the cradle unit according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 79 shows a perspective view of the cover assembly as attached to the cradle unit;
Fig. 80 shows the print engine of the present invention with the cover assembly in an open position;
Fig. 81 shows the print engine of the present invention with the cover assembly in a closed position;
Fig. 82 shows a front perspective view of the push rod assembly in isolation from the cover assembly;
Fig. 83 shows a perspective view of the foot portion of the push rod assembly of Fig. 82;
Fig. 84 shows an ink refill unit according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 85 shows the ink refill unit of Fig. 84 in relation to the print engine of the present invention;
Fig. 86 shows the ink refill unit positioned for refilling ink within the print engine as shown in Fig. 85;
Fig. 87 shows the cartridge unit as removed from the cradle unit of Figs. 85 and 86;
Fig. 88 shows an underside view of the ink refill unit of Fig. 84;
Fig. 89 illustrates the ink refill unit of Fig. 84 with its lid assembly removed;
Fig. 90 shows an exploded view of the various components of the ink refill unit of Fig. 84;
Fig. 91 illustrates a syringe assembly isolated from the ink refill unit as shown in Figs. 89 and 90;
Fig. 92 shows an end perspective view of the syringe assembly as shown in Fig.
91;
Fig. 93 illustrates a base assembly isolated from the other components of the ink refill unit as shown in Figs. 89 and 90;
Figs. 94a - 94c show an ink distribution system provided by the ink refill unit positioned on the print engine as shown in Fig. 85;
Fig. 95 shows the ink refill unit with its lid assembly removed in accordance with an alternative embodiment of a syringe assembly;
Fig. 96 shows an exploded view of the various components of the ink refill unit as shown in Fig. 95;
Fig. 97 shows a syringe assembly isolated from the ink refill unit as shown in Fig. 95;
Fig. 98 shows an end sectional view of the syringe assembly as shown in Fig.
95;
Fig. 99 shows a base assembly isolated from the other components of the ink refill unit as shown in Figs. 95 and 96;
Fig. 100 shows yet another embodiment of an ink refill unit suitable for use with the present invention;
Fig. 101 shows an opposite perspective view of the ink refill unit of Fig.
100;

Fig. 102 shows an underside view of the ink refill unit of Fig. 100;
Fig. 103 shows the ink refill unit of Fig. 100 with its end cap removed;
Fig. 104 shows an exploded view of the various components of the ink refill unit of Fig. 100;
Fig. 105 shows the working relationship between the internal components of the ink refill unit as shown in Figs. 100 and 104; and Fig. 106 shows a side sectional view of the ink refill unit of Fig. 100.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
As discussed previously, the present invention resides in a print engine 1 that can be readily incorporated into a body of a printer unit 2 to perform the printing functions of the printer unit.
As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the printer unit 2, which incorporates the print engine 1, may be in any form but typically has a media supply region 3 for supporting and supplying media 8 to be printed by the print engine, and a media output or collection region 4 for collecting the printed sheets of media. The printer unit 2 may also have a user interface 5 for enabling a user to control the operation of the printer unit, and this user interface 5 may be in the form of an LCD touch screen as shown.
The printer unit 2 typically has an internal cavity 6 for receiving the print engine 1, and access to the internal cavity may be provided by a lid 7 which is hingedly attached to the body of the printer unit 2.
The print engine 1 is configured to be positioned and secured within the printer unit 2 such that media 8 located in media supply region 3 can be fed to the print engine 1 for printing and delivered to the collection region 4 for collection following printing. In this regard, the print engine 1 includes media transport means which take the sheets of media 8 from the media supply region 3 and deliver the media past the printhead assembly, where it is printed, into the media output tray 4. A picker mechanism 9 is provided with the printer unit 2 to assist in feeding individual streets of media 8 from the media supply 3 to the print engine 1.
As shown schematically in Figure 3, in use, the printer unit 2 is arranged to print documents received from an external source, such as a computer system 702, onto a print media, such as a sheet of paper. In this regard, the printer unit 100 includes means which allow electrical connection between the printer unit 2 and the computer system 702 to receive data which has been pre-processed by the computer system 702. In one form, the external computer system 702 is programmed to perform various steps involved in printing a document, including receiving the document (step 703), buffering it (step 704) and rasterizing it (step 706), and then compressing it (step 708) for transmission to the printer unit 2.
The printer unit 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention, receives the document from the external computer system 702 in the form of a compressed, multi-layer page image, wherein control electronics provided within the print engine 1 buffers the image (step 710), and then expands the image (step 712) for further processing. The expanded contone layer is dithered (step 714) and then the black layer from the expansion step is composited over the dithered contone layer (step 716).
Coded data may also be rendered (step 718) to form an additional layer, to be printed (if desired) using an infrared ink that is substantially invisible to the human eye. The black, dithered contone and infrared layers are combined (step 720) to form a page that is supplied to a printhead for printing (step 722).

In this particular arrangement, the data associated with the document to be printed is divided into a high-resolution bi-level mask layer for text and line art and a medium-resolution contone color image layer for images or background colors. Optionally, colored text can be supported by the addition of a medium-to-high-resolution contone texture layer for texturing text and line art with color data taken from an image or from flat colors. The printing architecture generalises these contone layers by representing them in abstract "image" and "texture" layers which can refer to either image data or flat color data. This division of data into layers based on content follows the base mode Mixed Raster Content (MRC) mode as would be understood by a person skilled in the art. Like the MRC base mode, the printing architecture makes compromises in some cases when data to be printed overlap. In particular, in one form all overlaps are reduced to a 3-layer representation in a process (collision resolution) embodying the compromises explicitly.
As mentioned previously, data is delivered to the printer unit 2 in the form of a compressed, multi-layer page image with the pre-processing of the image performed by a mainly software-based computer system 702. In turn, the print engine 1 processes this data using a mainly hardware-based system as is shown in more detail in Figure 4.
Upon receiving the data, a distributor 730 converts the data from a proprietary representation into a hardware-specific representation and ensures that the data is sent to the correct hardware device whilst observing any constraints or requirements on data transmission to these devices. The distributor 730 distributes the converted data to an appropriate one of a plurality of pipelines 732. The pipelines are identical to each other, and in essence provide decompression, scaling and dot compositing functions to generate a set of printable dot outputs.
Each pipeline 732 includes a buffer 734 for receiving the data. A contone decompressor 736 decompresses the color contone planes, and a mask decompressor decompresses the monotone (text) layer.
Contone and mask scalers 740 and 742 scale the decompressed contone and mask planes respectively, to take into account the size of the medium onto which the page is to be printed.
The scaled contone planes are then dithered by ditherer 744. In one form, a stochastic dispersed-dot dither is used. Unlike a clustered-dot (or amplitude-modulated) dither, a dispersed-dot (or frequency-modulated) dither reproduces high spatial frequencies (i.e. image detail) almost to the limits of the dot resolution, while simultaneously reproducing lower spatial frequencies to their full color depth, when spatially integrated by the eye. A stochastic dither matrix is carefully designed to be relatively free of objectionable low-frequency patterns when tiled across the image. As such, its size typically exceeds the minimum size required to support a particular number of intensity levels (e.g. 16 x 16 x 8 bits for 257 intensity levels).
The dithered planes are then composited in a dot compositor 746 on a dot-by-dot basis to provide dot data suitable for printing. This data is forwarded to data distribution and drive electronics 748, which in turn distributes the data to the correct nozzle actuators 750, which in turn cause ink to be ejected from the correct nozzles 752 at the correct time in a manner which will be described in more detail later in the description.
As will be appreciated, the components employed within the print engine 1 to process the image for printing depend greatly upon the manner in which data is presented. In this regard it may be possible for the print engine 1 to employ additional software and/or hardware components to perform more processing within the printer unit 2 thus reducing the reliance upon the computer system 702.
Alternatively, the print engine 1 may employ fewer software and/or hardware components to perform less processing thus relying upon the computer system 702 to process the image to a higher degree before transmitting the data to the printer unit 2.
In all situations, the components necessary to perform the above mentioned tasks are provided within the control electronics of the print engine 1, and Figure 5 provides a block representation of an embodiment of the electronics.
In this arrangement, the hardware pipelines 732 are embodied in a Small Office Home Office Printer Engine Chip (SoPEC). As shown, a SoPEC device consists of 3 distinct subsystems: a Central Processing Unit (CPU) subsystem 771, a Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) subsystem 772 and a Print Engine Pipeline (PEP) subsystem 773.
The CPU subsystem 771 includes a CPU 775 that controls and configures all aspects of the other subsystems. It provides general support for interfacing and synchronizing all elements of the print engine 1. It also controls the low-speed communication to QA chips (which are described delow). The CPU subsystem 771 also contains various peripherals to aid the CPU, such as General Purpose Input Output (GPIO, which includes motor control), an Interrupt Controller Unit (ICU), LSS Master and general timers. The Serial Communications Block (SCB) on the CPU subsystem provides a full speed USB1.1 interface to the host as well as an Inter SoPEC Interface (ISI) to other SoPEC devices (not shown).
The DRAM subsystem 772 accepts requests from the CPU, Serial Communications Block (SCB) and blocks within the PEP subsystem. The DRAM subsystem 772, and in particular the DRAM Interface Unit (DIU), arbitrates the various requests and determines which request should win access to the DRAM. The DIU arbitrates based on configured parameters, to allow sufficient access to DRAM for all requestors. The DIU also hides the implementation specifics of the DRAM such as page size, number of banks and refresh rates.
The Print Engine Pipeline (PEP) subsystem 773 accepts compressed pages from DRAM and renders them to bi-level dots for a given print line destined for a printhead interface (PHI) that communicates directly with the printhead. The first stage of the page expansion pipeline is the Contone Decoder Unit (CDU), Lossless Bi-level Decoder (LBD) and, where required, Tag Encoder (TE). The CDU
expands the JPEG-compressed contone (typically CMYK) layers, the LBD expands the compressed bi-level layer (typically K), and the TE encodes any Netpage tags for later rendering (typically in IR or K
ink), in the event that the printer unit 2 has Netpage capabilities. The output from the first stage is a set of buffers: the Contone FIFO unit (CFU), the Spot FIFO Unit (SFU), and the Tag FIFO Unit (TFU). The CFU and SFU
buffers are implemented in DRAM.
The second stage is the Halftone Compositor Unit (HCU), which dithers the contone layer and composites position tags and the bi-level spot layer over the resulting bi-level dithered layer.
A number of compositing options can be implemented, depending upon the printhead with which the SoPEC device is used. Up to 6 channels of bi-level data are produced from this stage, although not all channels may be present on the printhead. For example, the printhead may be CMY only, with K pushed into the CMY channels and IR ignored. Alternatively, any encoded tags may be printed in K if IR ink is not available (or for testing purposes).

In the third stage, a Dead Nozzle Compensator (DNC) compensates for dead nozzles in the printhead by color redundancy and error diffusing of dead nozzle data into surrounding dots.
The resultant bi-level 5 channel dot-data (typically CMYK, Infrared) is buffered and written to a set of line buffers stored in DRAM via a Dotline Writer Unit (DWU).
Finally, the dot-data is loaded back from DRAM, and passed to the printhead interface via a dot FIFO. The dot FIFO accepts data from a Line Loader Unit (LLU) at the system clock rate (pclk), while the PrintHead Interface (PHI) removes data from the FIFO and sends it to the printhead at a rate of 2/3 times the system clock rate.
In the preferred form, the DRAM is 2.5Mbytes in size, of which about 2Mbytes are available for compressed page store data. A compressed page is received in two or more bands, with a number of bands stored in memory. As a band of the page is consumed by the PEP subsystem 773 for printing, a new band can be downloaded. The new band may be for the current page or the next page.
Using banding it is possible to begin printing a page before the complete compressed page is downloaded, but care must be taken to ensure that data is always available for printing or a buffer under-run may occur.
The embedded USB 1.1 device accepts compressed page data and control commands from the host PC, and facilitates the data transfer to either the DRAM (or to another SoPEC
device in multi-SoPEC systems, as described below).
Multiple SoPEC devices can be used in alternative embodiments, and can perform different functions depending upon the particular implementation. For example, in some cases a SoPEC device can be used simply for its onboard DRAM, while another SoPEC device attends to the various decompression and formatting functions described above. This can reduce the chance of buffer under-run, which can happen in the event that the printer commences printing a page prior to all the data for that page being received and the rest of the data is not received in time. Adding an extra SoPEC device for its memory buffering capabilities doubles the amount of data that can be buffered, even if none of the other capabilities of the additional chip are utilized.
Each SoPEC system can have several quality assurance (QA) devices designed to cooperate with each other to ensure the quality of the printer mechanics, the quality of the ink supply so the printhead nozzles will not be damaged during prints, and the quality of the software to ensure printheads and mechanics are not damaged.
Normally, each printing SoPEC will have an associated printer unit QA, which stores information relating to the printer unit attributes such as maximum print speed. The cartridge unit may also contain a QA
chip, which stores cartridge information such as the amount of ink remaining, and may also be configured to act as a ROM (effectively as an EEPROM) that stores printhead-specific information such as dead nozzle mapping and printhead characteristics. The refill unit may also contain a QA
chip, which stores refill ink information such as the type/colour of the ink and the amount of ink present for refilling. The CPU in the SoPEC device can optionally load and run program code from a QA Chip that effectively acts as a serial EEPROM. Finally, the CPU in the SoPEC device runs a logical QA chip (ie, a software QA chip).

Usually, all QA chips in the system are physically identical, with only the contents of flash memory differentiating one from the other.
Each SoPEC device has two LSS system buses that can communicate with QA
devices for system authentication and ink usage accounting. A large number of QA devices can be used per bus and their position in the system is unrestricted with the exception that printer QA and ink QA
devices should be on separate LSS
busses.
In use, the logical QA communicates with the ink QA to determine remaining ink. The reply from the ink QA is authenticated with reference to the printer QA. The verification from the printer QA is itself authenticated by the logical QA, thereby indirectly adding an additional authentication level to the reply from the ink QA.
Data passed between the QA chips is authenticated by way of digital signatures. In the preferred embodiment, HMAC-SHAT authentication is used for data, and RSA is used for program code, although other schemes could be used instead.
As will be appreciated, the SoPEC device therefore controls the overall operation of the print engine 1 and performs essential data processing tasks as well as synchronising and controlling the operation of the individual components of the print engine lto facilitate print media handling, as will be discussed below.
Print Engine The print engine 1 is shown in detail in Figs. 6 - 8 and consists of two parts: a cartridge unit 10 and a cradle unit 12.
As shown, the cartridge unit 10 is shaped and sized to be received within the cradle unit 12 and secured in position by a cover assembly 11 mounted to the cradle unit.
The cradle unit 12 is provided with an external body 13 having anchor portions 14 which allow it to be fixed to the printer unit 2 in a desired position and orientation, as discussed above, to facilitate printing.
In its assembled form as shown in Fig. 8, with cartridge unit 10 secured within the cradle unit 12 and cover assembly 11 closed, the print engine 1 is able to control various aspects associated with printing, including transporting the media past the printhead in a controlled manner as well as the controlled ejection of ink onto the surface of the passing media. In this regard, the print engine 2 may also include electrical contacts which facilitate electrical connection with the user interface 5 of the printer unit 2 to enable control of the print engine 1.

Cartridge unit The cartridge unit 10 is shown in detail in Figs. 9 - 12. With reference to the exploded views of Figs.
11 and 12, the cartridge unit 10 generally consists of a main body 20, a lid assembly 21, a printhead assembly 22 and a capper assembly 23.
Each of these parts are assembled together to form an integral unit which combines ink storage together with the ink ejection means in a complete manner. Such an arrangement ensures that the ink is directly supplied to the printhead assembly 22 for printing, as required, and should there be a need to replace either or both of the ink storage or the printhead assembly, this can be readily done by replacing the entire cartridge unit 10.
As is evident in Figs. 9 and 10, the cartridge unit 10 has facilities for receiving a refill supply of ink to replenish the ink storage when necessary and the cartridge unit itself carries an integral capping assembly 23 for capping the printhead when not in use.

MAIN BODY
The main body 20 of the cartridge unit 10 is shown in more detail in Figs 13 -15 and comprises a moulded plastics body which defines a plurality of ink storage compartments 24 in which the various colours and/or types of ink are stored. Each of the ink storage compartments 24 are separated from one another to prevent mixing of the different inks, as is shown more clearly in Figure 14, and extend along the length of the main body 20.
There are five ink storage compartments 24 shown, having a square or rectangular shape, with the end compartments being larger than the other compartments. The larger end compartments are intended to store the ink more readily consumed during the printing process, such as black ink or (infrared ink in Netpage applications) whilst the smaller compartments are intended to store the cyan, magenta and yellow inks traditionally used in colour printing. The base 25 of each of the ink storage compartments 24 is provided with a raised portion 26 which surrounds an ink outlet 27, through which the ink flows for supply to the printhead assembly 22. The raised portions 26 are typically moulded into the main body 20 and act to separate the outlet 27 from the base 25 of the ink storage compartment 24 to ensure a sufficient flow rate of ink from the compartment 24.
In this regard, an air barrier/ink filter 28 made from a fine mesh material is placed over the ink outlet 27, atop of the raised portions 26, thereby leaving a space between the filter and the outlet for receiving ink.
The air barrier/ink filter 28 is formed such that ink can readily pass through the mesh to the printhead assembly 22 but any air bubbles present in the ink are prevented from passing through.
As shown in Figure 11, the ink storage compartments 24 are provided with an absorbent material 29 such as a foam for storing the ink. The absorbent material 29 is shaped to conform to the shape of the ink storage compartment 24 and is fitted within the corresponding compartment to be supported on top of the air barrier/ink filter 28. In this arrangement, the lower surface of the absorbent material 29 is separated from the base 25 of the ink storage compartments via the raised portions 26. The absorbent material 29 acts to absorb ink supplied to the compartment 24 such that the ink is suspended internally within. The manner in which ink is supplied to the compartment 24 will be discussed in more detail later, however it should be appreciated that the structure of the absorbent material is such that it contains a number of open pores which receive and draw in the ink under capillary action.
The ink fills the space between the ink filter/air barrier 28 and the outlet 27 thereby forming an ink dam, which is in fluid communication with the ink in the printhead assembly 22 and the ink suspended within the absorbent material 29. Due to the nature of the absorbent material 29 and the fact that the ink is retained therein under capillary action, a back pressure is created which prevents the ink from freely flowing from the compartment 24 and out the nozzles of the printhead assembly 22.

Whilst the use of a foam or sponge material as an absorbent material 29 which stores the ink therein under capillary attraction forces is well established in the art, due to the nature of such materials, their use may cause contaminants to be introduced into the stored ink. These contaminants can then make their way to the ink delivery nozzles of the printhead assembly 22, causing blockages and therefore (possible irreparable) malfunction of the ink delivery nozzles. Whilst conventional arrangements have typically employed filters and the like in an attempt to protect the nozzles, such filters may themselves become blocked due to the presence of particulate material present in the foam or sponge material.
In this regard, in an alternative embodiment, the absorbent material 29 may be provided as a block or stack of layers made from a polymer material, such as polycarbonate, acrylic, polysulfone, polystyrene, fluoropolymer, cyclic olefin polymer, cyclic olefin copolymer, etc, having the channels 16 formed therein in the form of a micro-capillary array, as shown in Fig. 16, with each channel having an average diameter of about 10 microns or less.
In this arrangement, the body of the absorbent material 29, in which the micro-capillary array of the channels 16 is formed, remains stable and rigid at all times. That is, the rigid walls of the channels remain intact during exposure to the ink whereby particulate matter is not introduced into the ink, unlike the cellular or interlaced arrangement of compressible pores within the conventional foam and sponge materials which contribute to contaminant production.
The absorbent material 29 having the channels 16 formed as a micro-capillary array therein can be arranged within the individual ink storage compartments 24 as shown in Fig 17.
An ink trapping layer 17 is provided between the ink filter/air barrier 28 and the absorbent material 29.
The trapping layer 17 absorbs the supplied ink in multiple-directions, thus allowing for the ingress of the ink into the longitudinally orientated channels 16, and in this regard merely acts as a means for presenting the ink to the channels 16. The trapping layer 17 may be provided as a foam or sponge material with a thickness substantially less than that of the absorbent material 29, since the function of the trapping layer is merely to supply ink to the channelsl6 of the absorbent material 29 and not to store the ink.
The ink drawn into and stored within the channels 16 is able to pass to the nozzles of the printhead assembly 22 via the ink trapping layer 17. The use of foam or sponge material in the ink trapping layer 17 may result in some particulate contamination occurring in the ink. However, this may be minimized by providing the layer with a thickness and density which is just sufficient for absorbing the necessary amount of ink for effective absorption into the channels 16. In any event, since the ink is effectively stored only in the absorbent material 29, the contaminant level that may be produced in the ink trapping layer is significantly reduced from the levels produced by the conventional structures.
A pressed metal chassis 30 is fitted to the underside of the main body via clips 31 formed in the chassis 30 which mate with corresponding clips formed in the main body 20. The pressed metal chassis 30 is shaped to conform to the underside of the main body 20 and includes a plurality of holes 32 that extend therethrough which are positioned to correspond with the ink outlets 27 of the ink storage compartments 24 such that there is a passage for ink to pass through the chassis 30. The chassis 30 provides additional stability to the cartridge unit 10 and includes an edge 33 that extends downwardly from the main body 20 which defines a contact region where the flex printed circuit board 52 of the printhead assembly 22 contacts with corresponding electrical contacts 128 in the cradle unit 12, in a manner which will be described in more detail later in the description. The chassis 30 also has a plurality of elongate recesses 34 formed along its length, through which connecting clips provided on the printhead assembly 22 pass, for connection to the main body 20, as will be described in more detail below.
A seal moulding 35 is attached to the chassis 30 to complete and seal the ink flow path from the ink storage compartments 24 through the chassis 30. The seal moulding 35 is made from an elastomeric material and has a plurality of hollow cylindrical inserts 36 formed along its surface which extend through the holes 32 formed in the chassis 30 and into the ink outlets 27 of each of the ink storage compartments 24, as shown in Fig 15. The distal ends of the hollow cylindrical inserts 36 abut with the main body 20 to seal the ink outlets 27 and ensure ink flow through the seal moulding 35. The seal moulding 35 is fixed to the surface of the metal chassis 30 by a lock-fit or a suitable adhesive and acts to provide a substantially planar surface upon which the printhead assembly 22 is attached. The planar surface having a plurality of outlet holes 39 provided therein through which ink can flow to the printhead assembly.
As is shown in Figs. 14 and 15 a flex printed circuit board (PCB) backer 37 is attached to the side of the main body 20 via locating studs 38 and extends over the downwardly projecting edge 33 of the chassis 30.
The flex PCB backer 37 is made from a suitable elastomeric material and provides a backing onto which the flex PCB 52 of the printhead assembly 22 is supported following attachment of the printhead assembly 22 to the main body 20. As will be discussed in more detail later in the description, the flex PCB 52 from the printhead assembly 22 is provided with a suitable recess which fits over the locating studs 38 such that the electrical dimpled contacts 53 formed on the flex PCB 52 are positioned over the flex PCB backer 37 and extend outwardly therefrom to contact suitable electrical contacts 128 provided in the cradle unit 12. This arrangement provides some degree of flexibility in this contact region such that appropriate electrical contact can be established between the cradle unit 12 and the cartridge unit 10 to allow the transmission of data and power therebetween to control the ink ejecting nozzles of the printhead assembly 22. This arrangement also ensures that the forces associated with the contact between the cartridge unit 12 and the cradle unit 10 in this region are carried by the chassis 30 and not transferred to the printhead assembly 22 which could cause damage to the delicate printhead integrated circuits.
As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the main body 20 also includes a pair of end supports 40 which extend from the main body 20 in a downward direction with respect to the cartridge unit 10. The end supports 40 are arranged such that the seal moulding 35 and the flex PCB backer 37 extend along the main body 20 between the two end supports 40. The purpose of the end supports 40 will be described later in the description.
PRINTHEAD ASSEMBLY
The printhead assembly 22 is shown in more detail in Figs. 18 to 21, and is adapted to be attached to the underside of the main body 20 to receive ink from the outlet holes 39 formed in the planar surface of the seal moulding 35.
As shown more clearly in Fig. 20, the printhead assembly 22 comprises an upper moulding 42, having features which facilitate connection of the printhead assembly to the main body 20 of the cartridge unit 10.
These features are in the form of u-shaped clips 43 that project from the surface of the upper moulding 42. The clips 43 pass through the elongate recesses 34 provided in the chassis 30 and become captured by lugs (not shown) formed in the main body 20, thereby securing the printhead assembly 22 to the main body 20.
In order to receive ink from the ink storage compartments 24, the surface of the upper moulding 42 has a plurality of ink inlets 44 which project therefrom. The ink inlets 44 are received within the outlet holes 39 of the seal moulding 35, when the printhead assembly 22 is secured to the main body 20, and provide a path for the ink to flow to the printhead integrated circuits for printing. To ensure a sealed connection, the ink inlets 44 are shaped to fit within the outlet holes 39 of the seal moulding 35 and may also be provided with an outer coating that facilitates sealing.
The upper moulding 42 is made from a liquid crystal polymer (LCP) and is bonded to a lower moulding 45 via an adhesive film 46. The lower moulding 45 is also made from an LCP and has a plurality of channels 47 formed along its length. Each of the channels 47 are provided to receive ink from one of the ink storage compartments 24, via an ink inlet 44, and distribute the ink along the length of the printhead assembly 22 for feeding to the ink delivery nozzles 51 of the printhead assembly 22.
The channels preferably have a width of 1 mm and are separated by walls having a width of 0.75 mm. In the embodiment shown, the lower moulding 45 has five channels 47 extending along its length with each of the ink channels 47 receiving ink from one of the corresponding ink inlets 44. Such an arrangement ensures that the different inks remain separated throughout the journey from the individual ink storage compartments 24 to the corresponding ink delivery nozzles of the printhead integrated circuit. In this regard, the adhesive film 46 also acts to seal the individual ink channels 47 and prevent cross channel mixing of the ink when the lower moulding 45 is assembled to the upper moulding 42.
In order to further distribute the ink from the ink channels 47 of the lower moulding 45 to the printhead integrated circuits (ICs) 50, an ink distribution member 48 is attached to the lower moulding 45 and acts as an interface between the printhead ICs 50 and the ink channels 47 of the lower moulding 45. The purpose of the ink distribution member 48 is to provide a flow path for ink to flow from the relatively wide channels 47 to the relatively small and narrow channels 98 formed on the underside of the printhead ICs 50 which feed the ink to the individual ink delivery nozzles 51.
In order to appreciate the manner in which the ink distribution member 48 functions to perform millimetric-to-micrometric fluid distribution to the nozzles of the printhead ICs 50, reference is firstly made to the manner in which the printhead ICs 50 are arranged to form the printing zone of the printhead assembly 22.
As alluded to above, the present invention is related to page-width printing and as such the printhead ICs 50 are arranged to extend horizontally across the width of the passing media to deposit ink droplets thereon to create an image. To achieve this, individual printhead ICs 50 are linked together in abutting arrangement across the surface of the ink distribution member 48 of the printhead assembly 22, as shown simply in Fig 22. The length of an individual printhead IC 50 is around 20 -22 mm and as such in order to print an A4IUS letter sized page, 11 - 12 individual printhead ICs 50 may be linked together in abutting fashion. Other printing sizes may also be possible and as such the number of individual printhead ICs 50 required may vary depending upon the application.
Each printhead IC 50 has a plurality of individual ink delivery nozzles 51 formed therein, the structure and control of which will be described in more detail later. The nozzles 51 within an individual printhead IC 50 are grouped physically to reduce ink supply complexity and wiring complexity, and are also grouped logically to minimize power consumption and to allow a variety of printing speeds.
As mentioned previously, each printhead IC 50 is able to print five different colours (C, M, Y, K and IR) and contains 1280 ink delivery nozzles 51 per colour, with these nozzles being divided into even and odd nozzles (640 each). Even and odd nozzles for each colour are provided on different rows on the printhead IC
50 and are aligned vertically to perform true 1600 dpi printing, meaning that the nozzles 51 are arranged in 10 rows. The horizontal distance between two adjacent nozzles 51 on a single row is 31.75 microns, whilst the vertical distance between rows of nozzles is based on the firing order of the nozzles, but rows are typically separated by an exact number of dot lines, plus a fraction of a dot line corresponding to the distance the paper will move between row firing times Also, the spacing of even and odd rows of nozzles for a given colour must be such that they can share an ink channel, as will be described below.
The manner in which individual printhead ICs 50 are linked together in abutting fashion may be performed in a variety of ways. As shown in Fig. 23, the simplest way to achieve this linkage of the printhead ICs 50 is to form a rectangular join between adjacent ICs 50. However, due to the nature of this rectangular join, it may result in a gap between adjacent nozzles at the join interface which could produce a vertical stripe down the printed page of media where no ink is deposited, which may be unacceptable in some printing applications.
This may be overcome by providing a sloping join as shown in Fig 24a which provides nozzle overlap at the join interface. As shown by the enlarged view of nozzle rows of a single colour at the interface in Fig 24b, such an arrangement does not produce a visible join along the printing page as discussed above. In this arrangement, the ICs 50 must be perfectly aligned vertically to link in this fashion and as such this may not be always possible.
To overcome this problem, the ICs 50 may be provided with a vertical offset, as shown in Fig 25. This offset can be seen by the vertical offset between the longitudinal edges of adjacent ICs 50, and this offset increases with each join along the length of the printhead assembly 22. For example, if the offset was equivalent to 7 lines of nozzles per join, then for 11 ICs joined in this manner, there would be a total of 10 joins and 70 additional nozzle lines. This then results in an increase in the lines of data storage required for the printhead assembly. To overcome this, each IC 50 may be placed on a mild slope to achieve a constant number of print lines regardless of the number of joins, as shown in Fig. 26. It will be appreciated that in this arrangement the rows of nozzles on the ICs 50 are aligned, but the IC is placed in a sloped orientation, such that if all the nozzles were fired at once, the effect would be lots of sloped lines provided on the page of media, however with the nozzles being fired in the correct order relative to the paper movement, a straight line for n dots would be printed, followed by another straight line for another n dots separated by 1 line.
Yet another system for linking the ICs 50 in abutting fashion is shown in Fig.
27a and 27b. In this arrangement, the ICs 50 are shaped at their ends to link together to form a horizontal line of ICs, with no vertical offset between neighboring ICs. A sloping join is provided between the ICs which has a 45 degree angle to the upper and lower chip edges. Typically, the joining edge is not straight and has a sawtooth profile to facilitate positioning, and the ICs 50 are intended to be spaced about 11 microns apart, measured perpendicular to the joining edge. In this arrangement, the left most ink delivery nozzles on each row are dropped by 10 line pitches and arranged in a triangle configuration as shown in Fig 27a and Figs. 28a and 28b.
This arrangement provides a degree of overlap of nozzles at the join and maintains the pitch of the nozzles to ensure that the drops of ink are delivered consistently along the printing zone. This arrangement also ensures that more silicon is provided at the edge of the IC 50 to ensure sufficient linkage. Control of the operation of the nozzles is performed by the SoPEC device, however compensation for the nozzles is performed in the printhead, or may also be performed by the SoPEC device, depending on the storage requirements. In this regard it will be appreciated that the dropped triangle arrangement of nozzles disposed at one end of the IC 50 provides the minimum on-printhead storage requirements. However where storage requirements are less critical shapes other than a triangle can be used, for example, the dropped rows may take the form of a trapezoid.
Fig. 28a shows more clearly the upper surface of a portion of the individual ICs. As can be seen bond pads 96 are provided along an edge thereof which provide a means for receiving data and or power to control the operation of the nozzles from the SoPEC of the cradle unit 12. Fiducials 97 are also provided on the surface of the ICs to assist in positioning and aligning the ICs 50 with respect to each other. The fiducials 97 are in the form of markers that are readily identifiable by appropriate positioning equipment to indicate the true position of the IC 50 with respect to a neighbouring IC 50, and are strategically positioned at the edges of the IC, proximal the join. As shown in Fig 28b, the fiducials 97 align with corresponding fiducials 97 provided on the surface of a neighbouring IC 50 to ensure alignment of the ICs to appropriate limits, as discussed above.
The underside of a printhead IC 50 is shown in relation to Fig 28c. As shown, along the underside of the IC 50 there are provided a number of etched channels 98, with each channel 98 in communication with a pair of rows of nozzles 51. The channels 98 are about 80 microns wide and extend the length of the IC 50 and include silicon walls 99 formed therein, to divide the channels 98 into portions. The channels are adapted to receive ink from the ink channels 47 of the lower moulding 45 and distribute the ink to the pair of rows of nozzles 51 to eject that ink of a specific colour or type. The partitioning of the channels 98 by the silicon walls 99 ensures that the flow path to the nozzles is not too great thereby reducing the likelihood of ink starvation to the individual nozzles along the length of the IC. In this regard, each portion feeds approximately 128 nozzles and is individually fed a supply of ink.
Each of the ICs 50 are positioned and secured to the surface of the ink distribution member 48. As mentioned previously, the ink distribution member delivers the ink from the 1 mm wide channels 47 formed in the lower moulding 45 to the 80 micron wide channels 98 formed in the underside of the printhead ICs 50.
The ink distribution member 48 can be configured in a number of forms. In one embodiment the ink distribution member 48 may be in the form of a laminated structure consisting of a number of layers bonded to one another, as described in U.S. Patent No. 6,409,323 and pending US
Application No. 2004/0113997. , In an alternative embodiment, the ink distribution member 48 may be in a two-part form comprising an intermediate layer 172 and an adhesive layer 173, as shown in Fig. 29. In this arrangement, the intermediate layer 172 is arranged to fit over the exposed channels 47 of the lower moulding 45 to seal the channels 47 and to form a sealed unit with the lower moulding 45. The intermediate layer 172 has a plurality of holes 174 formed therethrough along its length each of which are aligned with the channels 47 and are spaced at regular intervals along the length thereof.
As shown more clearly in Fig. 30, the holes 174 formed through the intermediate layer 172 which relate to the most central channel 47 of the lower moulding 45 are in the form of small diameter holes equi-spaced at intervals along the length of the intermediate layer 172. Larger diameter holes 174 are provided which correspond to the other channels 47 of the lower moulding 45, which are displaced laterally from the most central channel. These holes 174 are similarly equi-spaced along the length of the intermediate layer and micro conduits 176 are provided which extend from the larger diameter holes to terminate at a central region of the intermediate layer 172, proximal the smaller diameter holes. These conduits 176 distribute the ink from each of the holes 172 to a central region of the intermediate layer to deliver the different types/colours of ink to the channels 98 formed in the underside of the integrated circuits 50.
The intermediate layer 172 is also made from a liquid crystal polymer (LCP) which is injection moulded to the appropriate shape and configuration. The intermediate layer 172 is bonded to the lower moulding 45 via a thermal adhesive, such as 3M 816 or Abelflex 5206 or 5205, which is applied between the intermediate layer 172 and the lower moulding 45 and placed in a laminator.
To facilitate placement and to secure the integrated circuits 50 upon the surface of the intermediate layer 172 a bonding film 175 is applied to the surface of the intermediate layer 172. The bonding film 175 is in the form of a laminate polymer film which may be a thermoplastic film such as a PET or Polysulphone film, or it may be in the form of a thermoset film, such as those manufactured by AL
technologies and Rogers Corporation. The bonding film 175 preferably has co-extruded adhesive layers formed on both sides thereof and is laminated onto the upper surface of the intermediate layer 172 Following lamination of the bonding layer 175 to the intermediate layer 172, holes are drilled through the bonding layer 175 to coincide with the centrally located small diameter holes 174, and the ends of the conduits 176. This is shown in Fig. 31. These holes provide a separate flow passage through the bonding layer 175 for each of the different types of inks, which feed directly to the appropriate channel portions 98 formed on the underside of the integrated circuits 50 for supply to the ink delivery nozzles 51 associated with each channel portion 98, as discussed above. Fiducial locating marks 177 are also drilled into the surface of the bonding layer to assist in attaching and positioning the ICs 50 thereon.
In order to attach the ICs 50 to the surface of the bonding layer 175, the ICs 50 are placed in a die and heated to 170 C and then pressed into the bonding layer 175 at 40 psi pressure for about 3 seconds. This results in the ICs 50 being thermally bonded to the intermediate layer 172, as shown in Fig 32. As shown, the fiducial locating marks 177 formed in the surface of the bonding layer 175 aid in positioning the ICs such that the channels 98 formed in the underside of the ICs 50 correctly align with the holes drilled through the bonding layer 175 to provide a flow path for ink to be fed to the nozzles for printing.
In this embodiment the ink distribution member 48 is in the form of a two part element containing an intermediate layer 172 which fits over the channels 47 formed in the lower moulding 45, and a bonding layer 175 allowing fluid flow therethrough and which acts to attach the ICs to the surface of the intermediate layer 172.

In yet another embodiment, the ink distribution member 48 may be in the form of a one-piece element with the ICs being directly attached to its upper surface. In this regard, rather than providing an intermediate layer 172 having holes 174 that extend therethrough and conduits 176 formed in the upper surface thereof to direct the flow of ink towards the central region of the intermediate layer 172, the conduits are formed within the body of the ink distribution member 48 such that the upper surface of the ink distribution member only has small diameter holes formed centrally therein for delivering the ink to the undersurface of the ICs.
The manner in which this is achieved is shown in Figs 33a - 33c. These Figures merely show the manner in which the ink can be directed from one of the channels 47 of the lower moulding 45, and it will be appreciated that the same approach can be similarly applied to deliver ink from the remainder of the channels 47.
As shown, the underside of the ink distribution member 48 is provided with a plurality of holes or inlets 180 therein, each having a diameter of approximately 1 mm, which corresponds to the width of the channels 47 provided in the lower moulding 45. The inlets 180 do not extend through the body of the ink distribution member 48, but rather extend into the member 48 to a depth of about a 3/4 the thickness of the member 48, as shown in the sectioned view of Fig 33c.
For the inlets 180 associated with the centre channel 47 of the lower moulding, an outlet 182, in the form of a 80 micron wide hole, is provided in the uppermost surface of the ink distribution member 48 which extends into the end wall of the inlet 180 to provide a path for the ink to flow out of the ink distribution member. For the inlets 180 associated with the other channels 47 of the lower moulding 45, a tunnel 181 is provided from a side wall of the inlet 180 within the ink distribution member 48 which acts to direct the flow of the ink received in the inlet through the body of the ink distribution member 48 to a central position therein.
An outlet 182, as described above, is then formed on an uppermost side of the ink distribution member to provide a path for the ink present in the tunnel 181 to exit the ink distribution member at the desired position along the surface of the ink distribution member. The outlets 182 are essentially 80 microns in width, to correspond with the width of the channels 98 provided on the underside of the integrated circuits 50.
The ink distribution member 48 of this embodiment is made from a photo-structurable glass-ceramic material, such as Forturan glass. These materials, when exposed to specific levels of pulsed UV laser energy density (fluence), have a photo-chemical reaction which creates a density of nanocrystals within the volume thereof, the density of which is directly proportional to the fluence of the exposed laser beam. In this regard, in order to form the desired inlets 180, outlets 182 and tunnels 181 connecting the inlets and outlets, the ink' distribution member 48 is mounted upon a precision XYZ stage for exposure to a focussed laser beam.
Various tools may be used to control the size and shape of the critically exposed volume of the glass structure to ensure that the desired pattern and shape is created within the ink distribution member. Typical exposure times may vary from 15 minutes to 1 hour.
Following exposure the ink distribution member is loaded into an oven for thermal treatment to aid in causing crystallisation of exposed regions of the glass. The exposed and thermally treated glass is then loaded into a mild etchant for around 7 minutes to etch the exposed regions, however the etch time may vary dependant upon the thickness of the glass and the depth of the cut. The thermal treatment and etching steps may be repeated in order to form the complete ink distribution member as shown in the figures.

With this arrangement, ink present in the channels 47 of the lower moulding 45 is drawn into the ink distribution member 48 via inlets 180 which are positioned over the channels 47 at regular intervals therealong. Upon entering the inlets 180, where required, the ink is directed to a central region of the ink distribution member 48 via the above mentioned tunnels 181, where the ink can then exit the ink distribution member 48 via the outlets 182 at a predetermined position which is aligned with the corresponding channels 98 formed in the underside of the ICs 50.
The ICs 50 are secured to the upper surface of the ink distribution member 48 to receive the ink therefrom, using spun coated adhesive applied to the underside of the IC 50, or by screen printing epoxy on the upper surface of the ink distribution member 48. In this regard, the fiducials provided on the ICs 50 and on the surface of the ink distribution member 48 assist in positioning the ICs 50 such that the channels 98 formed in the underside of the ICs 50 are aligned with the appropriate outlet 182 formed in the upper surface of the member 48 to receive the correct type/colour of ink.
Figs. 34a and 34b show the manner in which this is arranged to control the delivery of ink from the five channels 47 of the lower moulding 45. These figures provide a top view of the arrangement and for reasons of clarity, the various elements are shown in outline to indicate the manner in which ink flows between the elements. Fig 34a is a top view of the arrangement showing the ICs 50 located centrally upon the ink distribution member 48. The ink distribution member 48 is in turn secured to the lower moulding 45 such that the inlets 180 align with the respective channels 47 at regular intervals along the length thereof to receive ink from the channels 47 for distribution to the ICs 50. The inlets 180 associated with the central channel 47 are in direct fluid communication with an outlet 182, which delivers the ink to the underside of the ICs 50. The inlets 180 associated with the other channels 47 include tunnels 181 formed within the ink distribution member 48 which are in fluid communication with associated outlets 182 disposed remote from the inlets 180 to deliver ink to the underside of the ICs 50. As is shown, in this arrangement the outlets 182 are centrally arranged on the upper surface of the ink distribution member in a predetermined pattern, with the position of each outlet defining a point at which ink of a specific colour is delivered to the IC 50.
Fig 34b is a magnified view of Fig 34a, showing in detail the manner in which the ink is supplied to the underside of the ICs 50. The channels 98 formed on the underside of the IC
50 are clearly shown, as are the silicon walls 99 provided along the length of the channels 98, which divide the channels 98 into portions.
As shown, the ICs 50 are positioned on the surface of the ink distribution member such that the outlets 182 align with the channels 98 at the junction of the channel portions, namely at the region where the silicon walls 99 are situated. This then ensures that one outlet 182 supplies ink to two channel portions, allowing a regular spacing of outlets to be achieved along the surface of the ink distribution member 48.
In the above described embodiment, the ink distribution member 48 is in the form of a on-piece element thereby overcoming the need to provide separate layers and reducing the complexity of the system, as sealing between layers is no longer required.
Following attachment and alignment of each of the printhead ICs 50 to the surface of the ink distribution member 48, a flex PCB 52 is attached along an edge of the ICs 50 so that control signals and power can be supplied to the bond bads 96 of the ICs 50 to effect printing. As shown more clearly in Fig. 20, the flex PCB 52 folds around the printhead assembly 22 in an upward direction with respect to the cartridge unit 10, and has a plurality of dimpled contacts 53 provided along its length for receiving power and or data signals from the control circuitry of the cradle unit 12. A plurality of holes 54 are also formed along the distal edge of the flex PCB 52 which provide a means for attaching the flex PCB 52 to the locating studs 38 formed on the main body 20, such that the dimpled contacts 53 of the flex PCB 52 extends over the flex PCB backer 37. The manner in which the dimpled contacts 53 of the flex PCB 52 contact the power and data contacts 128 of the cradle unit 12 is described later.
A media shield 55 is attached to the printhead assembly 22 along an edge thereof and acts to protect the printhead ICs 50 from damage which may occur due to contact with the passing media. The media shield 55 is attached to the upper moulding 42 upstream of the printhead ICs 50 as shown more clearly in Fig. 21, via an appropriate clip-lock arrangement or via an adhesive. When attached in this manner, the printhead ICs 50 sit below the surface of the media shield 55, out of the path of the passing media.
As shown in Figs 20 and 21, a space 56 is provided between the media shield 55 and the upper 42 and lower 45 moulding which can receive pressurized air from an air compressor or the like. As this space 56 extends along the length of the printhead assembly 22, compressed air can be supplied to the space 56 from either end of the printhead assembly 22 and be evenly distributed along the assembly. The inner surface 57 of the media shield 55 is provided with a series of fins 58 which define a plurality of air outlets evenly distributed along the length of the media shield 55 through which the compressed air travels. This arrangement therefore provides a stream of air across the printhead ICs 50 in the direction of the media delivery which acts to prevent dust and other particulate matter carried with the media from settling on the surface of the printhead ICs, which could cause blockage and damage to the nozzles.
A cross section of the complete printhead assembly 22 is shown in Fig. 21. As shown, ink is received from the ink storage compartments 24 via the ink inlets 44 of the upper moulding 42, which feed the ink directly into one of the ink channels 47 of the lower moulding 45. The ink is in turn fed from the ink channels 47 to the ink delivery nozzles 51 of the printhead ICs 50 by way of the ink distribution member 48.
As shown in Figs. 20 and 21, the lower moulding 45 is provided with a plurality of priming inlets 59 at one end thereof. Each of the priming inlets 59 communicate directly with one of the channels 47 and provide a means for priming the printhead assembly 22 and the ink storage compartments 24 with ink prior to shipment and use. Various ways in which the priming is achieved will now be described with reference to Figs - 40.
30 Fig. 35 is a simplified cross-sectional representation of an ink storage compartment 24 as described previously. Ink is primed into the absorbent material 29 through the ink outlet 27 which links the compartment 24 to the channels 47 of the printhead assembly 22. In this regard, the ink is supplied via the priming inlets 59 along the channels 47 of the lower moulding 45, with each channel 47 in fluid communication with one ink outlet 27 of an ink storage compartment 24 to deliver ink of a specific 35 type/colour to that ink storage compartment 24.
Priming of the ink storage compartments 24 is typically performed prior to shipment of the cartridge unit 10 and as such, an ink source can be temporarily attached to the priming inlets 59, wherein upon completion of priming, the priming inlets can be capped/sealed.

As discussed above, priming ink is supplied under pressure to the ink storage compartment 24 via the ink outlets 27. The priming ink flows into the space between the ink filter/air barrier 28 and the outlet 27, and is absorbed into the absorbent material 29 through the ink filter/air barrier 28. As discussed above, due to the porous nature of the absorbent material 29 the ink becomes suspended within the absorbent material due to capillary attraction forces. By keeping the upper surface of the absorbent material 29 dry and exposed to atmospheric pressure through the vent hole 63, the ink is able to be continually drawn into the pores of the absorbent material 29 via capillary action (as shown by arrows B).
As discussed above, ink present in the channels 47 of the lower moulding 45 is also supplied to the ink delivery nozzles 51 of the integrated circuits 50, via the ink distribution member 48. During the above described priming process, the ink flows to the nozzles 51 to prime the individual nozzles with ink, and due to the capillary action of the absorbent material 29 in the ink storage compartments 24, a sufficient backpressure is established in the ink supply to prevent leakage of the ink out of the nozzles 51.
In this regard, the priming operation is ceased before the absorbent material becomes completely saturated and its upper surface becomes wet with ink, so that the necessary backpressure can be maintained.
This may be controlled by limiting the supply of ink or by more sophisticated methods, such as sensing the level of ink within the body. Hydrophobic material may also be used on the surface of the ICs 50 in the vicinity of the nozzles 51 so as to assist in leakage prevention.
In the above-described arrangement, it may be necessary to maintain the pressure of the supplied ink to be below a level which ensures the ink is not ejected through the nozzle outlets 51 during priming.
Practically, this situation may increase the required time necessary to prime the cartridge unit 10.
An alternative embodiment for configuring the ink storage compartments 24 which provides a means of substantially obviating the need to limit the ink pressure during priming is illustrated in Figs. 35 to 39. In this embodiment, a bypass fluid path 185 is provided in fluid communication with the ink outlet 27.
The bypass fluid path 185 allows the priming ink an additional path into the ink storage compartment 24 where it can be absorbed by the absorbent material 29. In this regard, the priming ink does not only flow through the ink filter air barrier 28 directly into the absorbent material 29, but can also flow into at least a portion of a well region 24a of the compartment 24, as illustrated by arrows C
in Fig. 36. The well region 24a is the annular region surrounding the raised portions 26 on the base 25 of the compartments where there is a gap between the base 25 of the compartment 24 and the absorbent material 29.
This well region 24a defines a space where the priming ink can be readily delivered via the bypass fluid path 185.
With this arrangement, by providing more than one path for the ink to enter the ink storage compartment 24, a larger surface area of the absorbent material 29 is exposed to the priming ink and as such the ink is drawn into the absorbent material more quickly and the supply pressure of the priming ink can be reduced.
The path 185 is provided with a bypass valve 186 which is open during initial priming of the cartridge unit 10 and is closed upon completion of the priming operation, as shown in Fig. 37. The bypass valve 186 may be provided by way of a variety of arrangements and may be either manually or automatically controlled. For example, the bypass valve 186 may be provided as a manual depression button as illustrated in Figs. 38 and 39.

In this arrangement, the bypass valve 186 is in the form of a button 187 provided as a flexible portion of the bottom wall of the path 185. The button 187 may be made from a rubber material and may be connected to the wall of the path 185 via an annular weakened portion 187a. Initially, and during priming, the button 187 is positioned as shown in Fig. 38 to allow the priming ink to flow through the path 185. Once priming is complete, the path 185 is closed by depressing the button 187 into a circular recessed region 188 of the internal wall of the path 185. In this regard, the button 187 is captured by the lip 189 and retained therein, thereby blocking the bypass valve 186, as shown in Fig. 39.
It will be appreciated that those skilled in the art will understand that other bypass valve structures are possible and encompassed by the present invention. For example, a simple alternative to the above may be providing the additional fluid path 185 as a compressible silicon tube or the like.
The bypass valve 186 may be configured to be irreversibly closed once the priming is completed. On the other hand, if refilling of the storage compartments via the priming inlets of the printhead assembly 22 is desired, a bypass valve capable of being opened and closed without limit may be provided.
Another embodiment of the ink storage compartments 24 which provides an alternative or additional arrangement for priming the compartments 24 with ink is illustrated in Fig.
40.
In this arrangement, a port 190 is provided in at least one of the side walls of each compartment 24 in a position below the upper surface of the absorbent material 29. The ports 190 are provided for the insertion of a needle 191 from an external ink source syringe or the like (not shown) which penetrates into the absorbent material 29, and through which the priming ink is supplied into the body. The ports 190 are configured so that the needle 191 supplies the priming ink towards the lower portion of the absorbent material 29, shown with arrows D in Fig. 40, so as to prevent wetting of the uppermost portion of the absorbent material 29, for the reasons discussed above.
Each port 190 is provided with a valve 192 which allows penetration of the needle 191 and is sealed when the needle is extracted and at other times. For example, the valve 192 may incorporate an elastomeric seal.
In this way, the priming ink is delivered directly to the absorbent material 29 and through capillary force is suspended therein for delivery to the nozzles of the printhead assembly 22, as shown with arrow E in Fig. 40.
The arrangement of this embodiment may be provided independently of those of the above-described embodiments, or may be used in conjunction with those arrangements to provide an additional refilling mechanism for the ink storage compartments 24.

INK DELIVERY NOZZLES
An example of a type of ink delivery nozzle arrangement suitable for the present invention, comprising a nozzle and corresponding actuator, will now be described with reference to Figures 41 to 50.
Figure 50 shows an array of ink delivery nozzle arrangements 801 formed on a silicon substrate 8015. Each of the nozzle arrangements 801 are identical, however groups of nozzle arrangements 801 are arranged to be fed with different colored inks or fixative. In this regard, the nozzle arrangements are arranged in rows and are staggered with respect to each other, allowing closer spacing of ink dots during printing than would be possible with a single row of nozzles. Such an arrangement makes it possible to provide a high density of nozzles, for example, more than 5000 nozzles arrayed in a plurality of staggered rows each having an interspacing of about 32 microns between the nozzles in each row and about 80 microns between the adjacent rows. The multiple rows also allow for redundancy (if desired), thereby allowing for a predetermined failure rate per nozzle.
Each nozzle arrangement 801 is the product of an integrated circuit fabrication technique. In particular, the nozzle arrangement 801 defines a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS).
For clarity and ease of description, the construction and operation of a single nozzle arrangement 801 will be described with reference to Figures 41 to 49.
The ink jet printhead integrated circuit 50 includes a silicon wafer substrate 8015 having 0.35 Micron 1 P4M 12 volt CMOS microprocessing electronics is positioned thereon.
A silicon dioxide (or alternatively glass) layer 8017 is positioned on the substrate 8015. The silicon dioxide layer 8017 defines CMOS dielectric layers. CMOS top-level metal defines a pair of aligned aluminium electrode contact layers 8030 positioned on the silicon dioxide layer 8017.
Both the silicon wafer substrate 8015 and the silicon dioxide layer 8017 are etched to define an ink inlet channel 8014 having a generally circular cross section (in plan). An aluminium diffusion barrier 8028 of CMOS
metal 1, CMOS metal 2/3 and CMOS top level metal is positioned in the silicon dioxide layer 8017 about the ink inlet channel 8014. The diffusion barrier 8028 serves to inhibit the diffusion of hydroxyl ions through CMOS oxide layers of the drive electronics layer 8017.
A passivation layer in the form of a layer of silicon nitride 8031 is positioned over the aluminium contact layers 8030 and the silicon dioxide layer 8017. Each portion of the passivation layer 8031 positioned over the contact layers 8030 has an opening 8032 defined therein to provide access to the contacts 8030.
The nozzle arrangement 801 includes a nozzle chamber 8029 defined by an annular nozzle wall 8033, which terminates at an upper end in a nozzle roof 8034 and a radially inner nozzle rim 804 that is circular in plan. The ink inlet channel 8014 is in fluid communication with the nozzle chamber 8029. At a lower end of the nozzle wall, there is disposed a moving rim 8010, that includes a moving seal lip 8040. An encircling wall 8038 surrounds the movable nozzle, and includes a stationary seal lip 8039 that, when the nozzle is at rest as shown in Fig. 44, is adjacent the moving rim 8010. A
fluidic seal 8011 is formed due to the surface tension of ink trapped between the stationary seal lip 8039 and the moving seal lip 8040. This prevents leakage of ink from the chamber whilst providing a low resistance coupling between the encircling wall 8038 and the nozzle wall 8033.
As best shown in Fig. 48, a plurality of radially extending recesses 8035 is defined in the roof 8034 about the nozzle rim 804. The recesses 8035 serve to contain radial ink flow as a result of ink escaping past the nozzle rim 804.
The nozzle wall 8033 forms part of a lever arrangement that is mounted to a carrier 8036 having a generally U-shaped profile with a base 8037 attached to the layer 8031 of silicon nitride.
The lever arrangement also includes a lever arm 8018 that extends from the nozzle walls and incorporates a lateral stiffening beam 8022. The lever arm 8018 is attached to a pair of passive beams 806, formed from titanium nitride (TiN) and positioned on either side of the nozzle arrangement, as best shown in Fig. 44 and 49. The other ends of the passive beams 806 are attached to the carrier 8036.
The lever arm 8018 is also attached to an actuator beam 807, which is formed from TiN. It will be noted that this attachment to the actuator beam is made at a point a small but critical distance higher than the attachments to the passive beam 806.
As best shown in Figs. 41 and 47, the actuator beam 807 is substantially U-shaped in plan, defining a current path between the electrode 809 and an opposite electrode 8041. Each of the electrodes 809 and 8041 are electrically connected to respective points in the contact layer 8030. As well as being electrically coupled via the contacts 809, the actuator beam is also mechanically anchored to anchor 808. The anchor 808 is configured to constrain motion of the actuator beam 807 to the left of Figs.
44 to 46 when the nozzle arrangement is in operation.
The TiN in the actuator beam 807 is conductive, but has a high enough electrical resistance that it undergoes self-heating when a current is passed between the electrodes 809 and 8041. No current flows through the passive beams 806, so they do not expand.
In use, the device at rest is filled with ink 8013 that defines a meniscus 803 under the influence of surface tension. The ink is retained in the chamber 8029 by the meniscus, and will not generally leak out in the absence of some other physical influence.
As shown in Fig. 42, to fire ink from the nozzle, a current is passed between the contacts 809 and 8041, passing through the actuator beam 807. The self-heating of the beam 807 due to its resistance causes the beam to expand. The dimensions and design of the actuator beam 807 mean that the majority of the expansion in a horizontal direction with respect to Figs. 41 to 43. The expansion is constrained to the left by the anchor 808, so the end of the actuator beam 807 adjacent the lever arm 8018 is impelled to the right.
The relative horizontal inflexibility of the passive beams 806 prevents them from allowing much horizontal movement the lever arm 8018. However, the relative displacement of the attachment points of the passive beams and actuator beam respectively to the lever arm causes a twisting movement that causes the lever arm 8018 to move generally downwards. The movement is effectively a pivoting or hinging motion.
However, the absence of a true pivot point means that the rotation is about a pivot region defined by bending of the passive beams 806.
The downward movement (and slight rotation) of the lever arm 8018 is amplified by the distance of the nozzle wall 8033 from the passive beams 806. The downward movement of the nozzle walls and roof causes a pressure increase within the chamber 8029, causing the meniscus to bulge as shown in Fig. 42. It will be noted that the surface tension of the ink means the fluid seal 8011 is stretched by this motion without allowing ink to leak out.
As shown in Fig. 43, at the appropriate time, the drive current is stopped and the actuator beam 807 quickly cools and contracts. The contraction causes the lever arm to commence its return to the quiescent position, which in turn causes a reduction in pressure in the chamber 8029.
The interplay of the momentum of the bulging ink and its inherent surface tension, and the negative pressure caused by the upward movement of the nozzle chamber 8029 causes thinning, and ultimately snapping, of the bulging meniscus to define an ink drop 802 that continues upwards until it contacts adjacent print media.

Immediately after the drop 802 detaches, meniscus 803 forms the concave shape shown in Fig. 43.
Surface tension causes the pressure in the chamber 8029 to remain relatively low until ink has been sucked upwards through the inlet 8014, which returns the nozzle arrangement and the ink to the quiescent situation shown in Fig. 61.
Another type of printhead nozzle arrangement suitable for the present invention will now be described with reference to Figure 51. Once again, for clarity and ease of description, the construction and operation of a single nozzle arrangement 1001 will be described.
The nozzle arrangement 1001 is of a bubble forming heater element actuator type which comprises a nozzle plate 1002 with a nozzle 1003 therein, the nozzle having a nozzle rim 1004, and aperture 1005 extending through the nozzle plate. The nozzle plate 1002 is plasma etched from a silicon nitride structure which is deposited, by way of chemical vapor deposition (CVD), over a sacrificial material which is subsequently etched.
The nozzle arrangement includes, with respect to each nozzle 1003, side walls 1006 on which the nozzle plate is supported, a chamber 1007 defined by the walls and the nozzle plate 1002, a multi-layer substrate 1008 and an inlet passage 1009 extending through the multi-layer substrate to the far side (not shown) of the substrate. A looped, elongate heater element 1010 is suspended within the chamber 1007, so that the element is in the form of a suspended beam. The nozzle arrangement as shown is a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) structure, which is formed by a lithographic process.
When the nozzle arrangement is in use, ink 1011 from a reservoir (not shown) enters the chamber 1007 via the inlet passage 1009, so that the chamber fills. Thereafter, the heater element 1010 is heated for somewhat less than 1 micro second, so that the heating is in the form of a thermal pulse. It will be appreciated that the heater element 1010 is in thermal contact with the ink 1011 in the chamber 1007 so that when the element is heated, this causes the generation of vapor bubbles in the ink.
Accordingly, the ink 1011 constitutes a bubble forming liquid.
The bubble 1012, once generated, causes an increase in pressure within the chamber 1007, which in turn causes the ejection of a drop 1016 of the ink 1011 through the nozzle 1003. The rim 1004 assists in directing the drop 1016 as it is ejected, so as to minimize the chance of a drop misdirection.
The reason that there is only one nozzle 1003 and chamber 1007 per inlet passage 1009 is so that the pressure wave generated within the chamber, on heating of the element 1010 and forming of a bubble 1012, does not effect adjacent chambers and their corresponding nozzles.
The increase in pressure within the chamber 1007 not only pushes ink 1011 out through the nozzle 1003, but also pushes some ink back through the inlet passage 1009. However, the inlet passage 1009 is approximately 200 to 300 microns in length, and is only approximately 16 microns in diameter. Hence there is a substantial viscous drag. As a result, the predominant effect of the pressure rise in the chamber 1007 is to force ink out through the nozzle 1003 as an ejected drop 1016, rather than back through the inlet passage 1009.
As shown in Fig. 51, the ink drop 1016 is being ejected is shown during its "necking phase" before the drop breaks off. At this stage, the bubble 1012 has already reached its maximum size and has then begun to collapse towards the point of collapse 1017.

The collapsing of the bubble 1012 towards the point of collapse 1017 causes some ink 1011 to be drawn from within the nozzle 1003 (from the sides 1018 of the drop), and some to be drawn from the inlet passage 1009, towards the point of collapse. Most of the ink 1011 drawn in this manner is drawn from the nozzle 1003, forming an annular neck 1019 at the base of the drop 16 prior to its breaking off.
The drop 1016 requires a certain amount of momentum to overcome surface tension forces, in order to break off. As ink 1011 is drawn from the nozzle 1003 by the collapse of the bubble 1012, the diameter of the neck 1019 reduces thereby reducing the amount of total surface tension holding the drop, so-that the momentum of the drop as it is ejected out of the nozzle is sufficient to allow the drop to break off.
When the drop 1016 breaks off, cavitation forces are caused as reflected by the arrows 1020, as the bubble 1012 collapses to the point of collapse 1017. It will be noted that there are no solid surfaces in the vicinity of the point of collapse 1017 on which the cavitation can have an effect.
Yet another type of printhead nozzle arrangement suitable for the present invention will now be described with reference to Figs. 52 - 54. This type typically provides an ink delivery nozzle arrangement having a nozzle chamber containing ink and a thermal bend actuator connected to a paddle positioned within the chamber. The thermal actuator device is actuated so as to eject ink from the nozzle chamber. The preferred embodiment includes a particular thermal bend actuator which includes a series of tapered portions for providing conductive heating of a conductive trace. The actuator is connected to the paddle via an arm received through a slotted wall of the nozzle chamber. The actuator arm has a mating shape so as to mate substantially with the surfaces of the slot in the nozzle chamber wall.
Turning initially to Figs. 52(a)-(c), there is provided schematic illustrations of the basic operation of a nozzle arrangement of this embodiment. A nozzle chamber 501 is provided filled with ink 502 by means of an ink inlet channel 503 which can be etched through a wafer substrate on which the nozzle chamber 501 rests. The nozzle chamber 501 further includes an ink ejection port 504 around which an ink meniscus forms.
Inside the nozzle chamber 501 is a paddle type device 507 which is interconnected to an actuator 508 through a slot in the wall of the nozzle chamber 501. The actuator 508 includes a heater means e.g. 509 located adjacent to an end portion of a post 510. The post 510 is fixed to a substrate.
When it is desired to eject a drop from the nozzle chamber 501, as illustrated in Fig. 52(b), the heater means 509 is heated so as to undergo thermal expansion. Preferably, the heater means 509 itself or the other portions of the actuator 508 are built from materials having a high bend efficiency where the bend efficiency is defined as:
bend Young's Modulus x (Coefficient of thermal Expansion) efficiency =
Density x Specific Heat Capacity A suitable material for the heater elements is a copper nickel alloy which can be formed so as to bend a glass material.
The heater means 509 is ideally located adjacent the end portion of the post 510 such that the effects of activation are magnified at the paddle end 507 such that small thermal expansions near the post 510 result in large movements of the paddle end.

The heater means 509 and consequential paddle movement causes a general increase in pressure around the ink meniscus 505 which expands, as illustrated in Fig. 52(b), in a rapid manner. The heater current is pulsed and ink is ejected out of the port 504 in addition to flowing in from the ink channel 503.
Subsequently, the paddle 507 is deactivated to again return to its quiescent position. The deactivation causes a general reflow of the ink into the nozzle chamber. The forward momentum of the ink outside the nozzle rim and the corresponding backflow results in a general necking and breaking off of the drop 512 which proceeds to the print media. The collapsed meniscus 505 results in a general sucking of ink into the nozzle chamber 502 via the ink flow channel 503. In time, the nozzle chamber 501 is refilled such that the position in Fig. 52(a) is again reached and the nozzle chamber is subsequently ready for the ejection of another drop of ink.
Fig. 53 illustrates a side perspective view of the nozzle arrangement. Fig. 54 illustrates sectional view through an array of nozzle arrangement of Fig. 53. In these figures, the numbering of elements previously introduced has been retained.
Firstly, the actuator 508 includes a series of tapered actuator units e.g. 515 which comprise an upper glass portion (amorphous silicon dioxide) 516 formed on top of a titanium nitride layer 517. Alternatively a copper nickel alloy layer (hereinafter called cupronickel) can be utilized which will have a higher bend efficiency.
The titanium nitride layer 517 is in a tapered form and, as such, resistive heating takes place near an end portion of the post 510. Adjacent titanium nitride/glass portions 515 are interconnected at a block portion 519 which also provides a mechanical structural support for the actuator 508.
The heater means 509 ideally includes a plurality of the tapered actuator unit 515 which are elongate and spaced apart such that, upon heating, the bending force exhibited along the axis of the actuator 508 is maximized. Slots are defined between adjacent tapered units 515 and allow for slight differential operation of each actuator 508 with respect to adjacent actuators 508.
The block portion 519 is interconnected to an arm 520. The arm 520 is in turn connected to the paddle 507 inside the nozzle chamber 501 by means of a slot e.g. 522 formed in the side of the nozzle chamber 501. The slot 522 is designed generally to mate with the surfaces of the arm 520 so as to minimize opportunities for the outflow of ink around the arm 520. The ink is held generally within the nozzle chamber 501 via surface tension effects around the slot 522.
When it is desired to actuate the arm 520, a conductive current is passed through the titanium nitride layer 517 within the block portion 519 connecting to a lower CMOS layer 506 which provides the necessary power and control circuitry for the nozzle arrangement. The conductive current results in heating of the nitride layer 517 adjacent to the post 510 which results in a general upward bending of the arm 20 and consequential ejection of ink out of the nozzle 504. The ejected drop is printed on a page in the usual manner for an inkjet printer as previously described.
An array of nozzle arrangements can be formed so as to create a single printhead. For example, in Fig.
54 there is illustrated a partly sectioned various array view which comprises multiple ink ejection nozzle arrangements of Figure 73 laid out in interleaved lines so as to form a printhead array. Of course, different types of arrays can be formulated including full color arrays etc.

The construction of the printhead system described can proceed utilizing standard MEMS techniques through suitable modification of the steps as set out in US 6,243,113 entitled "Image Creation Method and Apparatus (IJ 41)" to the present applicant, the contents of which are fully incorporated by cross reference.
The integrated circuits 50 may be arranged to have between 5000 to 100,000 of the above described ink delivery nozzles arranged along its surface, depending upon the length of the integrated circuits and the desired printing properties required. For example, for narrow media it may be possible to only require 5000 nozzles arranged along the surface of the printhead assembly to achieve a desired printing result, whereas for wider media a minimum of 10,000, 20,000 or 50,000 nozzles may need to be provided along the length of the printhead assembly to achieve the desired printing result. For full colour photo quality images on A4 or US
letter sized media at or around 1600dpi, the integrated circuits 50 may have 13824 nozzles per color.
Therefore, in the case where the printhead assembly 22 is capable of printing in 4 colours (C, M, Y, K), the integrated circuits 50 may have around 53396 nozzles disposed along the surface thereof. Further, in a case where the printhead assembly 22 is capable of printing 6 printing fluids (C, M, Y, K, IR and a fixative) this may result in 82944 nozzles being provided on the surface of the integrated circuits 50. In all such arrangements, the electronics supporting each nozzle is the same.
The manner in which the individual ink delivery nozzle arrangements may be controlled within the printhead assembly 22 will now be described with reference to Figs. 55 - 58.
Fig. 55 shows an overview of the integrated circuit 50 and its connections to the SoPEC device (discussed above) provided within the control electronics of the print engine 1. As discussed above, integrated circuit 50 includes a nozzle core array 901 containing the repeated logic to fire each nozzle, and nozzle control logic 902 to generate the timing signals to fire the nozzles. The nozzle control logic 902 receives data from the SoPEC device via a high-speed link.
The nozzle control logic 902 is configured to send serial data to the nozzle array core for printing, via a link 907, which may be in the form of an electrical connector. Status and other operational information about the nozzle array core 901 is communicated back to the nozzle control logic 902 via another link 908, which may be also provided on the electrical connector.
The nozzle array core 901 is shown in more detail in Figs. 56 and 57. In Fig.
56, it will be seen that the nozzle array core 901 comprises an array of nozzle columns 911. The array includes a fire/select shift register 912 and up to 6 color channels, each of which is represented by a corresponding dot shift register 913.
As shown in Fig. 57, the fire/select shift register 912 includes forward path fire shift register 930, a reverse path fire shift register 931 and a select shift register 932. Each dot shift register 913 includes an odd dot shift register 933 and an even dot shift register 934. The odd and even dot shift registers 933 and 934 are connected at one end such that data is clocked through the odd shift register 933 in one direction, then through the even shift register 934 in the reverse direction. The output of all but the final even dot shift register is fed to one input of a multiplexer 935. This input of the multiplexer is selected by a signal (corescan) during post-production testing. In normal operation, the corescan signal selects dot data input Dot[x] supplied to the other input of the multiplexer 935. This causes Dot[x] for each color to be supplied to the respective dot shift registers 913.

A single column N will now be described with reference to Fig. 77. In the embodiment shown, the column N includes 12 data values, comprising an odd data value 936 and an even data value 937 for each of the six dot shift registers. Column N also includes an odd fire value 938 from the forward fire shift register 930 and an even fire value 939 from the reverse fire shift register 931, which are supplied as inputs to a multiplexer 940. The output of the multiplexer 940 is controlled by the select value 941 in the select shift register 932. When the select value is zero, the odd fire value is output, and when the select value is one, the even fire value is output.
Each of the odd and even data values 936 and 937 is provided as an input to corresponding odd and even dot latches 942 and 943 respectively.
Each dot latch and its associated data value form a unit cell, such as unit cell 944. A unit cell is shown in more detail in Fig. 58. The dot latch 942 is a D-type flip-flop that accepts the output of the data value 936, which is held by a D-type flip-flop 944 forming an element of the odd dot shift register 933. The data input to the flip-flop 944 is provided from the output of a previous element in the odd dot shift register (unless the element under consideration is the first element in the shift register, in which case its input is the Dot[x] value). Data is clocked from the output of flip-flop 944 into latch 942 upon receipt of a negative pulse provided on LsyncL.
The output of latch 942 is provided as one of the inputs to a three-input AND
gate 945. Other inputs to the AND gate 945 are the Fr signal (from the output of multiplexer 940) and a pulse profile signal Pr. The firing time of a nozzle is controlled by the pulse profile signal Pr, and can be, for example, lengthened to take into account a low voltage condition that arises due to low power supply (in a removable power supply embodiment). This is to ensure that a relatively consistent amount of ink is efficiently ejected from each nozzle as it is fired. In the embodiment described, the profile signal Pr is the same for each dot shift register, which provides a balance between complexity, cost and performance. However, in other embodiments, the Pr signal can be applied globally (ie, is the same for all nozzles), or can be individually tailored to each unit cell or even to each nozzle.
Once the data is loaded into the latch 942, the fire enable Fr and pulse profile Pr signals are applied to the AND gate 945, combining to the trigger the nozzle to eject a dot of ink for each latch 942 that contains a logic 1.
The signals for each nozzle channel are summarized in the following table:
Name Direction Description D Input Input dot pattern to shift register bit Q Output Output dot pattern from shift register bit SrClk Input Shift register clock in - d is captured on rising edge of this clock LsyncL Input Fire enable - needs to be asserted for nozzle to fire Pr Input Profile - needs to be asserted for nozzle to fire As shown in Fig. 58, the fire signals Fr are routed on a diagonal, to enable firing of one color in the current column, the next color in the following column, and so on. This averages the current demand by spreading it over 6 columns in time-delayed fashion.
The dot latches and the latches forming the various shift registers are fully static in this embodiment, and are CMOS-based. The design and construction of latches is well known to those skilled in the art of integrated circuit engineering and design, and so will not be described in detail in this document.
The nozzle speed may be as much as 20 kHz for the printer unit 2 capable of printing at about 60 ppm, and even more for higher speeds. At this range of nozzle speeds the amount of ink than can be ejected by the entire printhead assembly 22 is at least 50 million drops per second. However, as the number of nozzles is increased to provide for higher-speed and higher-quality printing at least 100 million drops per second, preferably at least 500 million drops per second and more preferably at least 1 billion drops per second may be delivered. At such speeds, the drops of ink are ejected by the nozzles with a maximum drop ejection energy of about 250 nanojoules per drop.
Consequently, in order to accommodate printing at these speeds, the control electronics must be able to determine whether a nozzle is to eject a drop of ink at an equivalent rate.
In this regard, in some instances the control electronics must be able to determine whether a nozzle ejects a drop of ink at a rate of at least 50 million determinations per second. This may increase to at least 100 million determinations per second or at least 500 million determinations per second, and in many cases at least 1 billion determinations per second for the higher-speed, higher-quality printing applications.
For the printer unit 2 of the present invention, the above-described ranges of the number of nozzles provided on the printhead assembly 22 together with the nozzle firing speeds and print speeds results in an area print speed of at least 50 cm2 per second, and depending on the printing speed, at least 100 cm2 per second, preferably at least 200 cm2 per second, and more preferably at least 500 cm2 per second at the higher-speeds. Such an arrangement provides a printer unit 2 that is capable of printing an area of media at speeds not previously attainable with conventional printer units.

LID ASSEMBLY
The lid assembly 21 of the cartridge unit 10 is shown in Figures 59 - 61. The lid assembly 21 is arranged to fit over the main body 20, thereby sealing each of the ink storage compartments 24. As such, the lid assembly 21 is shaped to conform to the shape of main body 20 and is attached to the main body via ultrasonic welding, or any other suitable method which provides a sealed connection.
The outer surface 60 of the lid assembly 21 is provided with a number of ink refill ports 61, for receiving ink from a refill unit 200 and for directing the refill ink into one of the ink storage compartments 24 of the main body 20. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 59, there are five ink refill ports 61 provided, with each of the refill ports being in fluid communication with one of the five ink storage compartments 24 to facilitate refilling of the associated compartments with ink.
The ink refills ports 61 are in the form of holes extending through the lid assembly 11 and each hole is provided with a valve fitting 62 made from an elastomeric moulding. The valve fittings 62 act to seal the ports 61 during non refill periods and provide a means for interacting with an outlet of the ink refill unit 200 to DEMANDE OU BREVET VOLUMINEUX

LA PRRSENTE PARTIE DE CETTE DEMANDE OU CE BREVET COMPREND
PLUS D'UN TOME.

NOTE : Pour les tomes additionels, veuillez contacter le Bureau canadien des brevets JUMBO APPLICATIONS/PATENTS

THIS SECTION OF THE APPLICATION/PATENT CONTAINS MORE THAN ONE
VOLUME

NOTE: For additional volumes, please contact the Canadian Patent Office NOM DU FICHIER / FILE NAME:

NOTE POUR LE TOME / VOLUME NOTE:

Claims (7)

1. An inkjet printer unit comprising:
a media input tray for supplying print media for printing;
a removable cradle including a controller for controlling an operation of a pagewidth printhead of the inkjet printer unit, the controller being in the form of electrical circuitry provided on a printed circuit board;
an inkjet cartridge incorporating the pagewidth printhead and an ink supply, the inkjet cartridge being removably received in the cradle;
a cover assembly pivotally engaged with the cradle, the cover assembly adapted to pivot between an open and closed position with respect to the cradle to respectively expose and enclose the inkjet cartridge in the cradle; and a media output tray for collecting the printed media, wherein a first plurality of terminals are formed on the printed circuit board and located along a length of a body of the cradle, a second plurality of terminals are located along the length of the inkjet cartridge, and the cover assembly includes means for effecting disengagement and engagement of the first plurality of terminals with the second plurality of terminals upon opening and closing of the cover assembly.
2. The inkjet unit according to claim 1, wherein the cradle is configured to receive print media from the media input tray and to deliver printed media to the media output tray.
3. The inkjet unit according to claim 2, wherein the cradle includes a media transport mechanism for transporting the print media from the media input tray to the printhead for printing, and from the printhead to the media output tray for collecting the printed media.
4. The inkjet unit according to claim 3, wherein the media transport mechanism comprises a drive roller assembly and an exit roller assembly.
5. The inkjet unit according to claim 4, wherein the body defines a recess to receive the removable inkjet cartridge.
6. The inkjet unit according to claim 5, wherein the first plurality of terminals are located within said recess.
7. The inkjet unit according to claim 1, wherein the controller includes one or more SoPEC
devices for controlling the operation of the printhead.
CA2550790A 2004-01-21 2004-12-20 Inkjet printer unit having a high speed print engine Expired - Fee Related CA2550790C (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/760,254 2004-01-21
US10/760,254 US7448734B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2004-01-21 Inkjet printer cartridge with pagewidth printhead
PCT/AU2004/001789 WO2005070677A1 (en) 2004-01-21 2004-12-20 Inkjet printer unit having a high speed print engine

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
CA2550790A1 CA2550790A1 (en) 2005-08-04
CA2550790C true CA2550790C (en) 2011-03-22

Family

ID=34749937

Family Applications (5)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA002550817A Abandoned CA2550817A1 (en) 2004-01-21 2004-12-20 Combination printer and image reader in l-shaped configuration
CA2550799A Expired - Fee Related CA2550799C (en) 2004-01-21 2004-12-20 Cartridge unit having negatively pressurized ink storage
CA2550813A Expired - Fee Related CA2550813C (en) 2004-01-21 2004-12-20 Network inkjet printer unit having multiple media input trays
CA2550790A Expired - Fee Related CA2550790C (en) 2004-01-21 2004-12-20 Inkjet printer unit having a high speed print engine
CA2550774A Expired - Fee Related CA2550774C (en) 2004-01-21 2004-12-20 High speed digital printer unit

Family Applications Before (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA002550817A Abandoned CA2550817A1 (en) 2004-01-21 2004-12-20 Combination printer and image reader in l-shaped configuration
CA2550799A Expired - Fee Related CA2550799C (en) 2004-01-21 2004-12-20 Cartridge unit having negatively pressurized ink storage
CA2550813A Expired - Fee Related CA2550813C (en) 2004-01-21 2004-12-20 Network inkjet printer unit having multiple media input trays

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA2550774A Expired - Fee Related CA2550774C (en) 2004-01-21 2004-12-20 High speed digital printer unit

Country Status (10)

Country Link
US (155) US7448734B2 (en)
EP (6) EP1709790B1 (en)
JP (16) JP4634400B2 (en)
KR (11) KR20060116851A (en)
CN (6) CN100548691C (en)
AT (1) ATE510696T1 (en)
AU (8) AU2004314468B2 (en)
CA (5) CA2550817A1 (en)
SG (21) SG149834A1 (en)
WO (6) WO2005070674A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (291)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6738096B1 (en) * 1998-07-10 2004-05-18 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Low-cost disposable camera including print media carrying indication of postage paid
US6647270B1 (en) * 1999-09-10 2003-11-11 Richard B. Himmelstein Vehicletalk
US6526658B1 (en) * 2000-05-23 2003-03-04 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of manufacture of an ink jet printhead having a moving nozzle with an externally arranged actuator
WO2001089840A1 (en) * 2000-05-24 2001-11-29 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. Method of manufacture of an ink jet printhead having a moving nozzle with an externally arranged actuator
AUPS048502A0 (en) 2002-02-13 2002-03-07 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. Methods and systems (ap44)
AR049674A1 (en) * 2003-08-08 2006-08-30 Seiko Epson Corp LIQUID CONTAINER CONTAINER TO SUPPLY A LIQUID SUCH CONSUMPTION APPLIANCE
US7524016B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2009-04-28 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Cartridge unit having negatively pressurized ink storage
US7198352B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2007-04-03 Kia Silverbrook Inkjet printer cradle with cartridge stabilizing mechanism
US7469989B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-12-30 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead chip having longitudinal ink supply channels interrupted by transverse bridges
US7364264B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2008-04-29 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cradle with single drive motor performing multiple functions
US7201468B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2007-04-10 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with fixative delivery capabilities
US20050157128A1 (en) * 2004-01-21 2005-07-21 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Pagewidth inkjet printer cartridge with end electrical connectors
US7249838B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2007-07-31 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Self threading wallpaper printer
US7731327B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2010-06-08 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Desktop printer with cartridge incorporating printhead integrated circuit
US7156511B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2007-01-02 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with integral maintenance station
US7303255B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2007-12-04 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with a compressed air port
US7121655B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2006-10-17 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge refill dispenser
US20050157112A1 (en) 2004-01-21 2005-07-21 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cradle with shaped recess for receiving a printer cartridge
US7448734B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-11-11 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with pagewidth printhead
US7232208B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2007-06-19 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge refill dispenser with plunge action
US7441865B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-10-28 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead chip having longitudinal ink supply channels
US7367650B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-05-06 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead chip having low aspect ratio ink supply channels
US7328985B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2008-02-12 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge refill dispenser with security mechanism
US7374355B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2008-05-20 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cradle for receiving a pagewidth printhead cartridge
US7645025B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2010-01-12 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with two printhead integrated circuits
US7425050B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2008-09-16 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method for facilitating maintenance of an inkjet printer having a pagewidth printhead
US7367647B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2008-05-06 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Pagewidth inkjet printer cartridge with ink delivery member
US7360868B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-04-22 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with infrared ink delivery capabilities
US20050157000A1 (en) * 2004-01-21 2005-07-21 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cradle with end data and power contacts
US20050157125A1 (en) * 2004-01-21 2005-07-21 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with integral shield
US7364263B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2008-04-29 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Removable inkjet printer cartridge
US7083273B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2006-08-01 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with uniform compressed air distribution
US7097291B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2006-08-29 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with ink refill port having multiple ink couplings
JP4581531B2 (en) * 2004-07-27 2010-11-17 ソニー株式会社 Paper discharge tray, paper supply / discharge device, image forming device, and information display device
KR100612450B1 (en) * 2004-10-14 2006-08-16 삼성전자주식회사 Ink cartridge for the wide array type head
AU2005324288B2 (en) * 2005-01-10 2011-02-17 Memjet Technology Limited Inkjet printhead production method
US7296881B2 (en) * 2005-01-21 2007-11-20 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printhead de-priming
US7278720B2 (en) * 2005-01-24 2007-10-09 Hewlett-Packard Develpoment Company, L.P. Ink cartridge with multiple chambers aligned along an axial length
US7425052B2 (en) * 2005-02-28 2008-09-16 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead assembly having improved adhesive bond strength
US7468284B2 (en) * 2005-02-28 2008-12-23 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of bonding substrates
US7372145B2 (en) * 2005-02-28 2008-05-13 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Bonded assembly having improved adhesive bond strength
JP4682862B2 (en) * 2005-03-31 2011-05-11 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Liquid container and liquid filling method thereof
KR100694132B1 (en) * 2005-06-28 2007-03-12 삼성전자주식회사 Ink channel unit and method for manufacturing the same
JP2007069435A (en) * 2005-09-06 2007-03-22 Brother Ind Ltd Liquid droplet delivering apparatus
KR100813964B1 (en) * 2005-09-22 2008-03-14 삼성전자주식회사 Array type print head and ink-jet image forming apparatus having the same
US7658463B2 (en) * 2005-10-11 2010-02-09 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead maintenance assembly comprising first and second rollers
AU2006301900B2 (en) * 2005-10-11 2010-05-27 Memjet Technology Limited Printhead maintenance assembly comprising maintenance roller and cleaning mechanism
US7399057B2 (en) * 2005-10-11 2008-07-15 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead maintenance station having cylindrical engagement pad
US7669958B2 (en) * 2005-10-11 2010-03-02 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead cartridge comprising integral printhead maintenance station with maintenance roller
US20070104496A1 (en) * 2005-11-10 2007-05-10 Xerox Corporation Illuminated output presence indicator
US7452055B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2008-11-18 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing cartridge having self-referencing printhead
US7758038B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2010-07-20 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printer having compact media pick-up device
US7681876B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2010-03-23 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printer having disengageably gear driven media pick-up roller
US7455383B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2008-11-25 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead maintenance station having maintenance belt with belt-cleaning station
US7465033B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2008-12-16 Silverbrook Research Ptv Ltd Self-referencing printhead assembly
US7475963B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2009-01-13 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing cartridge having commonly mounted printhead and capper
US7448724B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2008-11-11 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of maintaining a printhead using a maintenance belt
US7735955B2 (en) 2005-12-05 2010-06-15 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of assembling printhead capping mechanism
US7445311B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2008-11-04 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead maintenance station having maintenance belt
US7470002B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2008-12-30 Silverbrook Research Ptv Ltd Printer having self-reference mounted printhead
US7632032B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2009-12-15 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of assembling printer media transport arrangement
US7448735B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2008-11-11 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Ink priming arrangement for inkjet printhead
US7465042B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2008-12-16 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of priming inkjet printhead
US7448739B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2008-11-11 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Constant negative pressure head ink supply arrangement for inkjet printhead
US7722161B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2010-05-25 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of locating printhead on printer
US7837297B2 (en) 2006-03-03 2010-11-23 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead with non-priming cavities for pulse damping
JP4681654B2 (en) * 2006-03-03 2011-05-11 シルバーブルック リサーチ ピーティワイ リミテッド Inkjet printer
US7721441B2 (en) * 2006-03-03 2010-05-25 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of fabricating a printhead integrated circuit attachment film
WO2007098524A1 (en) * 2006-03-03 2007-09-07 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Pulse damped fluidic architecture
GB2436293A (en) * 2006-03-24 2007-09-26 Galley Geoffrey H Spinous processes insertion device
KR100754212B1 (en) * 2006-03-25 2007-09-03 삼성전자주식회사 Ink set, ink catridge including the same, and inkjet recording apparatus employing the same
US7992961B2 (en) * 2006-03-31 2011-08-09 Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Ink-jet head
JP4725394B2 (en) * 2006-03-31 2011-07-13 富士フイルム株式会社 Inkjet recording device
US7726791B2 (en) * 2006-03-31 2010-06-01 Lexmark International, Inc. Conduit construction using films
JP2007290137A (en) * 2006-04-20 2007-11-08 Seiko Epson Corp Liquid cartridge and its manufacturing method
US20080062452A1 (en) * 2006-09-11 2008-03-13 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd PictBridge printer with photo-sized display screen
US7663784B2 (en) * 2006-09-11 2010-02-16 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of storing and displaying photos on a digital photo frame
US20080062445A1 (en) * 2006-09-11 2008-03-13 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of printing photos from a printer
ES2364291T3 (en) * 2006-11-06 2011-08-30 Seiko Epson Corporation LIQUID DEPOSIT, DEPOSIT SUPPORT AND LIQUID CONSUMPTION DEVICE.
JP4946751B2 (en) * 2006-11-06 2012-06-06 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Container holder, liquid consumption apparatus, and liquid container
KR101104475B1 (en) * 2006-11-06 2012-01-12 세이코 엡슨 가부시키가이샤 Liquid container
US7568694B2 (en) 2006-11-27 2009-08-04 Eastman Kodak Company Printed medium collector
EP1939790B1 (en) * 2006-12-28 2009-07-22 Seiko Epson Corporation Media processing device
US20080157405A1 (en) * 2007-01-03 2008-07-03 International Business Machines Corporation Chip stack with precision alignment, high yield assembly and thermal conductivity
US7605009B2 (en) 2007-03-12 2009-10-20 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of fabrication MEMS integrated circuits
US7758177B2 (en) * 2007-03-21 2010-07-20 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd High flowrate filter for inkjet printhead
KR101108841B1 (en) * 2007-03-21 2012-02-08 실버브룩 리서치 피티와이 리미티드 Fluidically damped printhead
JP4962092B2 (en) 2007-03-30 2012-06-27 ブラザー工業株式会社 Image forming apparatus
JP4962094B2 (en) * 2007-03-30 2012-06-27 ブラザー工業株式会社 Image forming apparatus
JP5056163B2 (en) * 2007-05-25 2012-10-24 ブラザー工業株式会社 Ink cartridge determination device and determination method
US7819503B2 (en) * 2007-06-15 2010-10-26 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead integrated circuit comprising inkjet nozzle assemblies having connector posts
US7866795B2 (en) * 2007-06-15 2011-01-11 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of forming connection between electrode and actuator in an inkjet nozzle assembly
US20090009541A1 (en) 2007-07-02 2009-01-08 Seiko Epson Corporation Liquid discharging apparatus and method of discharging liquid
JP2009029112A (en) * 2007-07-02 2009-02-12 Seiko Epson Corp Liquid discharging apparatus and method of discharging liquid
US8789905B2 (en) 2007-07-02 2014-07-29 Seiko Epson Corporation Liquid discharging apparatus and method of discharging liquid
US8128210B2 (en) * 2007-07-20 2012-03-06 Seiko Epson Corporation Fluid ejecting apparatus and fluid filling method of fluid ejecting apparatus
CA2596123A1 (en) 2007-08-03 2009-02-03 Carlo Fascio Refillable ink cartridge
JP2009051046A (en) * 2007-08-24 2009-03-12 Canon Inc Inkjet recording head and bubble removal method
US7914132B2 (en) * 2007-10-16 2011-03-29 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer with selectively isolatable pump
EP2237965B1 (en) * 2008-01-16 2012-09-26 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd Multiple conduit fluid coupling with leakage flow control
EP2237960B1 (en) * 2008-01-16 2012-09-26 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd Printhead cartridge with two fluid couplings
US7845778B2 (en) * 2008-01-16 2010-12-07 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printer with zero insertion force printhead cartridge
US7922279B2 (en) * 2008-01-16 2011-04-12 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead maintenance facility with ink storage and driven vacuum drainage coupling
US20090179967A1 (en) * 2008-01-16 2009-07-16 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Multiple conduit fluid coupling with leakage flow control
US20090233050A1 (en) * 2008-03-17 2009-09-17 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Fabrication of a printhead integrated circuit attachment film by photopatterning
US7845755B2 (en) * 2008-03-17 2010-12-07 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead integrated circuit attachment film having differentiated adhesive layers
EP2252463A1 (en) * 2008-03-17 2010-11-24 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd Fabrication of a printhead integrated circuit attachment film by photopatterning
JP4692567B2 (en) * 2008-03-29 2011-06-01 ブラザー工業株式会社 Image forming apparatus
US7815273B2 (en) * 2008-04-01 2010-10-19 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Fluid ejection device
US8206353B2 (en) * 2008-04-11 2012-06-26 Medtronic Minimed, Inc. Reservoir barrier layer systems and methods
US9295776B2 (en) * 2008-04-11 2016-03-29 Medtronic Minimed, Inc. Reservoir plunger head systems and methods
US8858501B2 (en) * 2008-04-11 2014-10-14 Medtronic Minimed, Inc. Reservoir barrier layer systems and methods
US8293338B2 (en) * 2008-04-15 2012-10-23 Xerox Corporation Applying a transparent protective coating to marked media in a print engine
US8496320B2 (en) * 2008-05-08 2013-07-30 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Ink cartridge having a staked vent sealing member
US8091993B2 (en) * 2008-05-22 2012-01-10 Videojet Technologies Inc. Ink containment system and ink level sensing system for an inkjet cartridge
US8272704B2 (en) 2008-05-22 2012-09-25 Zipher Limited Ink containment system and ink level sensing system for an inkjet cartridge
US8616689B2 (en) * 2008-05-23 2013-12-31 Fujifilm Corporation Circulating fluid for fluid droplet ejecting
JP5511096B2 (en) * 2008-05-23 2014-06-04 富士フイルム株式会社 Method and apparatus for mounting fluid ejection module
JP4687745B2 (en) * 2008-05-23 2011-05-25 富士ゼロックス株式会社 Image processing apparatus, image recording system, and program
JP4814927B2 (en) * 2008-10-17 2011-11-16 株式会社沖データ Sheet deposition apparatus and image forming apparatus
US7631864B1 (en) * 2008-12-17 2009-12-15 Xerox Corporation Catch tray for document production device
US8342391B2 (en) * 2008-12-18 2013-01-01 Ncr Corporation Travel kiosk
US8025374B2 (en) * 2008-12-19 2011-09-27 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Ink manifold with multiple conduit shut off valve
CA2742314C (en) * 2008-12-19 2013-10-22 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Ink manifold with multiple conduit shut off valve
US8236247B2 (en) * 2008-12-23 2012-08-07 Intercat Equipment, Inc. Material withdrawal apparatus and methods of regulating material inventory in one or more units
KR20100081555A (en) * 2009-01-06 2010-07-15 삼성전자주식회사 Nozzle capping apparatus for ink-jet printer
KR20100081867A (en) * 2009-01-07 2010-07-15 삼성전자주식회사 Ink cartridge and ink circulation system
PT2835262T (en) * 2009-02-27 2018-07-09 Hewlett Packard Development Co Fluid cartridge for a printing device
US20100228090A1 (en) * 2009-03-06 2010-09-09 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods and devices for providing access into a body cavity
US20100231673A1 (en) * 2009-03-12 2010-09-16 Yuhei Chiwata Image forming method and apparatus
US8702207B2 (en) 2009-05-17 2014-04-22 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Fluid-ejection printhead having mixing barrier
US8323993B2 (en) * 2009-07-27 2012-12-04 Zamtec Limited Method of fabricating inkjet printhead assembly having backside electrical connections
US20110025762A1 (en) * 2009-07-31 2011-02-03 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing system with pump to prime printheads
US9048802B2 (en) 2009-08-17 2015-06-02 Skyworks Solutions, Inc. Radio frequency power amplifier with linearizing predistorter
WO2011023629A1 (en) * 2009-08-27 2011-03-03 Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland Gmbh Injector device
US9474540B2 (en) 2009-10-08 2016-10-25 Ethicon-Endo-Surgery, Inc. Laparoscopic device with compound angulation
US8388096B2 (en) * 2009-12-17 2013-03-05 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Detecting and removing fibers
JP5458922B2 (en) * 2010-02-03 2014-04-02 富士ゼロックス株式会社 Image processing apparatus and program
JP5077381B2 (en) * 2010-03-29 2012-11-21 ブラザー工業株式会社 Liquid ejection device
US8256876B2 (en) * 2010-03-31 2012-09-04 Eastman Kodak Company Ink passageways connecting inlet ports and chambers
JP5577827B2 (en) * 2010-04-28 2014-08-27 ブラザー工業株式会社 Inkjet recording device
US8313179B2 (en) 2010-04-29 2012-11-20 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Liquid delivery for a printhead
ES2880840T3 (en) 2010-05-06 2021-11-25 Immunolight Llc Adhesive bonding composition and method of use
US8562592B2 (en) 2010-05-07 2013-10-22 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Compound angle laparoscopic methods and devices
US9226760B2 (en) 2010-05-07 2016-01-05 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Laparoscopic devices with flexible actuation mechanisms
SG10201502832YA (en) 2010-05-17 2015-05-28 Memjet Technology Ltd System For Distributing Fluid And Gas Within Printer
US8540353B2 (en) 2010-05-17 2013-09-24 Zamtec Ltd Printhead coupling having cam driven mechanism
US8460337B2 (en) 2010-06-09 2013-06-11 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Selectable handle biasing
JP5545058B2 (en) 2010-06-17 2014-07-09 ブラザー工業株式会社 Image recording device
US20110312727A1 (en) * 2010-06-17 2011-12-22 Geneasys Pty Ltd Loc device with parallel nucleic acid amplification functionality
US8205965B2 (en) * 2010-07-20 2012-06-26 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print bar structure
JP5736702B2 (en) * 2010-09-21 2015-06-17 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Recording device
JP5621495B2 (en) * 2010-10-14 2014-11-12 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Printer control apparatus, printing system, printer control method and program
JP2013542728A (en) * 2010-10-21 2013-11-28 オルガノボ，インク． Devices, systems, and methods for creating an organization
US8020850B1 (en) * 2010-10-29 2011-09-20 Lexmark International, Inc. Removable input tray assembly having a dual function roller for feeding media and separating media in an image forming device
US8235376B2 (en) * 2010-10-29 2012-08-07 Lexmark International, Inc. Removable input tray assembly having an integrated roller nip for an image forming device
US20120127246A1 (en) * 2010-11-18 2012-05-24 Chi-Chang Liu Ink cartridge structure
US8894190B2 (en) * 2010-11-19 2014-11-25 Domino Printing Sciences Plc Relating to inkjet printers
USD665842S1 (en) * 2010-11-19 2012-08-21 Domino Printing Sciences Plc Printer service module
JP2012121168A (en) * 2010-12-06 2012-06-28 Canon Inc Liquid ejection head, and method of producing the same
JP5724398B2 (en) * 2011-01-14 2015-05-27 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Container unit and liquid jet system
JP5343994B2 (en) * 2011-03-31 2013-11-13 ブラザー工業株式会社 Recording device
US9275842B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2016-03-01 Dsa Detection Llc Multi-dopant permeation tube
US8814327B2 (en) 2011-07-01 2014-08-26 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Power supply apparatus and printing apparatus
US20130025125A1 (en) * 2011-07-27 2013-01-31 Petruchik Dwight J Method of fabricating a layered ceramic substrate
US8897629B1 (en) 2012-01-27 2014-11-25 Scent Sciences Corporation Scent delivery apparatus
JP6045227B2 (en) * 2012-07-05 2016-12-14 キヤノン株式会社 Inkjet recording device
US8905528B2 (en) * 2012-07-24 2014-12-09 Eastman Kodak Company Ink tank with a compliant wick
JP6135073B2 (en) 2012-09-01 2017-05-31 株式会社リコー Image forming apparatus
US9421781B2 (en) * 2012-10-15 2016-08-23 Seiko Epson Corporation Recording apparatus
JP5794221B2 (en) * 2012-12-19 2015-10-14 コニカミノルタ株式会社 Image forming apparatus
JP2014151976A (en) * 2013-02-05 2014-08-25 Seiko Epson Corp Medium transport device and recording apparatus
JP5692265B2 (en) * 2013-03-07 2015-04-01 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Liquid ejecting apparatus, liquid supply apparatus, and liquid container
US8851617B1 (en) 2013-03-25 2014-10-07 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Provide printing fluid to printhead
US10105901B2 (en) 2013-09-13 2018-10-23 Microjet Technology Co., Ltd. Rapid prototyping apparatus with page-width array printing module
TWI579151B (en) * 2014-12-19 2017-04-21 研能科技股份有限公司 Rapid prototyping device using page-width array printing
US9015903B2 (en) * 2013-09-20 2015-04-28 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Pin connector
WO2015047231A1 (en) 2013-09-25 2015-04-02 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printhead assembly with one-piece printhead support
JP6221566B2 (en) * 2013-09-26 2017-11-01 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Method for regenerating liquid container and liquid container
KR102347385B1 (en) 2013-11-19 2022-01-06 멤젯 테크놀로지 엘티디 Method of printing pigment-based inks, ink set, inks and printers therefor
GB2520745A (en) * 2013-11-29 2015-06-03 Ingegneria Ceramica S R L An improved support bar for a printhead
US9420503B2 (en) 2014-01-21 2016-08-16 Cisco Technology, Inc. System and method for seamless mobility in a network environment
CN105939859B (en) 2014-01-31 2018-04-20 惠普发展公司，有限责任合伙企业 For ink supply and its preparation method
CN103832080B (en) * 2014-03-20 2015-10-28 北京美科艺数码科技发展有限公司 Assistant print cartridges, ink feeding system and inkjet-printing device
JP6361861B2 (en) * 2014-03-25 2018-07-25 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Recording device
JP6187364B2 (en) * 2014-03-31 2017-08-30 ブラザー工業株式会社 Printing device
CN103862889A (en) * 2014-04-04 2014-06-18 晏石英 Dust-free printing system
US9427048B2 (en) * 2014-06-09 2016-08-30 Nike, Inc. Polymeric component with injected, embedded ink and apparatus and method for manufacturing same
CN104044373A (en) * 2014-06-20 2014-09-17 张晓玲 Printer with automatic alarming function
DE102014213874A1 (en) * 2014-07-16 2016-01-21 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Preconcentrator for adsorbing and / or desorbing at least one component of a gas
US9944079B2 (en) 2014-07-17 2018-04-17 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print bar structure
USD761338S1 (en) * 2014-07-25 2016-07-12 Inter-Power Corporation Billet push rod
USD763140S1 (en) * 2014-07-25 2016-08-09 Inter-Power Corporation Billet push rod
USD763331S1 (en) * 2014-07-25 2016-08-09 Inter-Power Corporation Billet push rod
WO2016018322A1 (en) 2014-07-30 2016-02-04 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printer cap
JP6394185B2 (en) * 2014-08-28 2018-09-26 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Printing device
US9546292B2 (en) 2014-11-19 2017-01-17 Memjet Technology Limited Ink additive combinations for improving printhead lifetime
TWI633018B (en) * 2014-12-19 2018-08-21 研能科技股份有限公司 Rapid prototyping device using page-width array printing
US10449777B2 (en) 2015-01-29 2019-10-22 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print system with volume substantially void of liquid
US10377556B2 (en) 2015-02-04 2019-08-13 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Retaining apparatus
EP3302983B1 (en) * 2015-05-28 2020-11-18 Sicpa Holding SA Ink reservoir with back pressure system
USD763332S1 (en) * 2015-05-31 2016-08-09 Huai Wu 3D printhead
JP2017056629A (en) * 2015-09-16 2017-03-23 船井電機株式会社 Image formation device
US10589530B2 (en) 2015-10-28 2020-03-17 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printer cartridge with multiple backpressure chambers
CN106739525A (en) * 2015-11-25 2017-05-31 周利平 Caritrdge
CN106808802A (en) * 2015-11-28 2017-06-09 周利军 The external ink feeding system of environment-protecting intelligent
US9969165B2 (en) 2016-01-08 2018-05-15 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Liquid discharge head and liquid discharge apparatus
JP6987498B2 (en) * 2016-01-08 2022-01-05 キヤノン株式会社 Liquid discharge board, liquid discharge head, and liquid discharge device
US10022979B2 (en) 2016-01-08 2018-07-17 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Liquid ejection head, liquid ejection apparatus, and manufacturing method
EP3238676B1 (en) 2016-04-29 2019-01-02 The Procter and Gamble Company Absorbent core with profiled distribution of absorbent material
CN109070614B (en) * 2016-04-29 2021-02-12 惠普发展公司，有限责任合伙企业 Printer door hinge assembly
TWI715755B (en) 2016-05-02 2021-01-11 愛爾蘭商滿捷特科技公司 Monochrome inkjet printhead configured for high-speed printing
US10507679B2 (en) 2016-05-24 2019-12-17 Electronics For Imaging, Inc. Replication alignment of components for use in inkjet printing applications
US10076902B2 (en) 2016-05-27 2018-09-18 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Print element substrate, liquid ejection head, and printing device
JP6821331B2 (en) 2016-05-30 2021-01-27 キヤノン株式会社 Recording element substrate, liquid discharge head, and liquid discharge device
JP6742825B2 (en) * 2016-06-06 2020-08-19 キヤノン株式会社 Control device and control method
JP6901246B2 (en) * 2016-08-03 2021-07-14 富士通コンポーネント株式会社 Printer
US10857822B2 (en) 2016-09-09 2020-12-08 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print engine and accessory mating
WO2018048446A1 (en) 2016-09-12 2018-03-15 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printing subassembly
JP2019529281A (en) * 2016-09-12 2019-10-17 ヒューレット−パッカード デベロップメント カンパニー エル．ピー．Ｈｅｗｌｅｔｔ‐Ｐａｃｋａｒｄ Ｄｅｖｅｌｏｐｍｅｎｔ Ｃｏｍｐａｎｙ， Ｌ．Ｐ． Device with light source
JP7005232B2 (en) 2016-09-27 2022-01-21 キヤノン株式会社 Recording head, element board, and recording device
JP2018054947A (en) * 2016-09-29 2018-04-05 富士ゼロックス株式会社 Image formation apparatus
JP2018054949A (en) * 2016-09-29 2018-04-05 富士ゼロックス株式会社 Image formation apparatus
JP2018054948A (en) * 2016-09-29 2018-04-05 富士ゼロックス株式会社 Image forming apparatus
IT201600098327A1 (en) * 2016-09-30 2018-03-30 Omso Officina Macchine Per Stampa Su Oggetti Spa Ink jet printing machine for three-dimensional objects, in particular tubular objects
JP6891488B2 (en) * 2016-12-27 2021-06-18 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Printing equipment
TW201838829A (en) 2017-02-06 2018-11-01 愛爾蘭商滿捷特科技公司 Inkjet printhead for full color pagewide printing
WO2018169641A1 (en) 2017-03-14 2018-09-20 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Quick connect assembly for fluid and electrical connections
US10933665B2 (en) 2017-03-30 2021-03-02 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Module to increase medium storage capacity
AU2018253075B2 (en) 2017-04-13 2020-03-05 Memjet Technology Limited Low toxicity ink formulations with improved printhead lifetime
CN107415477A (en) * 2017-09-12 2017-12-01 陆永添 A kind of high speed weaving ink jet printer with shower nozzle cleaning moisturizing mechanism
CN107757131B (en) * 2017-09-28 2019-06-25 北京盛通印刷股份有限公司 A kind of ink storage device of improved cartridge of ink-jet printer
US11220111B2 (en) * 2017-10-20 2022-01-11 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Ink cartridge caps
US10696054B2 (en) * 2017-10-24 2020-06-30 Seiko Epson Corporation Recording apparatus, liquid storage unit, and medium accommodation unit
JP7026486B2 (en) 2017-11-07 2022-02-28 エスアイアイ・プリンテック株式会社 Liquid injection head and liquid injection recorder
JP7059591B2 (en) * 2017-11-28 2022-04-26 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Liquid sprayer
KR102024615B1 (en) * 2017-12-06 2019-09-24 세메스 주식회사 Apparatus for Cleaning Droplet in Inkjet Head and Method for Cleaning Droplet in Inkjet
WO2019117937A1 (en) * 2017-12-15 2019-06-20 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Fluidic ejection controllers with selectively removable ejection boards
CN108099412A (en) * 2017-12-28 2018-06-01 南宁远卓新能源科技有限公司 Anti-bubble print cartridge
EP3658382A4 (en) 2018-01-31 2021-02-24 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print substance end-of-life predictions
CN110126471A (en) * 2018-02-08 2019-08-16 亿码（厦门）标识科技有限公司 Push type ink-supplying ink cartridge
JP7005376B2 (en) 2018-02-15 2022-01-21 キヤノン株式会社 Device substrate, recording head, and recording device
US11548286B2 (en) 2018-03-08 2023-01-10 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Dummy cartridge accessory device
WO2019209375A1 (en) 2018-04-24 2019-10-31 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Droplet ejectors to draw fluids through microfluidic networks
WO2019209273A1 (en) 2018-04-24 2019-10-31 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Microfluidic devices
KR20190124014A (en) * 2018-04-25 2019-11-04 휴렛-팩커드 디벨롭먼트 컴퍼니, 엘.피. Sensor cleaning for paper feeding system of image forming apparatus
US11020966B2 (en) 2018-04-27 2021-06-01 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Liquid ejection head substrate, method of manufacturing liquid ejection head substrate, and liquid ejection head
WO2019211070A1 (en) 2018-05-03 2019-11-07 Memjet Technology Limited Inkjet printhead with encapsulant-retaining features
US20210147166A1 (en) * 2018-05-09 2021-05-20 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print devices
US11235585B2 (en) 2018-07-04 2022-02-01 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Liquid delivery system for an inkjet type dispenser
EP3820709B1 (en) 2018-07-13 2024-04-03 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Method for conducting a refill process and printing device
EP3820703B1 (en) * 2018-07-13 2024-01-10 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print substance reservoirs
US11364721B2 (en) * 2018-07-13 2022-06-21 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print liquid supply interconnect in hose-fed housing
ES2832495T3 (en) * 2018-07-13 2021-06-10 Hewlett Packard Development Co Printing liquid supply
US20210322970A1 (en) * 2018-07-17 2021-10-21 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Droplet ejectors to mix fluids
US11547993B2 (en) 2018-07-17 2023-01-10 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Droplet ejectors with target media
US11325380B2 (en) 2018-07-17 2022-05-10 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Droplet ejectors to provide fluids to droplet ejectors
TWI657036B (en) * 2018-07-18 2019-04-21 信紘科技股份有限公司 Automatic slot filling docking device
WO2020018119A1 (en) 2018-07-20 2020-01-23 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Cleaning print head cap
CN112399919A (en) * 2018-08-30 2021-02-23 惠普发展公司，有限责任合伙企业 Injector body
MX2020013912A (en) * 2018-08-30 2021-03-02 Hewlett Packard Development Co Syringes with plungers.
EP3765913A1 (en) 2018-08-30 2021-01-20 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Contacts for a print particle input recess
US11104150B2 (en) 2018-08-30 2021-08-31 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Valve housing rotation prevention
CN108726215A (en) * 2018-09-07 2018-11-02 天津光电通信技术有限公司 A kind of the print media dilatation frame and image forming apparatus of image forming apparatus
KR20200052726A (en) 2018-11-07 2020-05-15 휴렛-팩커드 디벨롭먼트 컴퍼니, 엘.피. Coupler holder based toner locking system
US11312148B2 (en) 2018-11-15 2022-04-26 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print substance gauge authentication
USD934341S1 (en) 2018-12-03 2021-10-26 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Ink cartridge
WO2020117217A1 (en) * 2018-12-04 2020-06-11 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print device functionalities
US11919313B2 (en) 2018-12-04 2024-03-05 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print device functionalities
CN109671040B (en) * 2018-12-31 2023-05-12 珠海智汇网络设备有限公司 Print picture data processing method, computer device, and computer-readable storage medium
US20210165346A1 (en) * 2019-01-24 2021-06-03 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Refill dispenser for refilling developer cartridge
WO2020159517A1 (en) 2019-01-31 2020-08-06 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Fluidic die with surface condition monitoring
US11494481B2 (en) * 2019-05-10 2022-11-08 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Authentication apparatus for authenticating authentication target device
CN110077119A (en) * 2019-05-20 2019-08-02 黄春燕 A kind of environment-friendly type ink-feeding device
EP3877186A4 (en) 2019-07-08 2022-08-03 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Device to supply printing material
EP3997524A4 (en) 2019-07-09 2023-01-11 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Photoconductor having optical tag
US20210059290A1 (en) * 2019-08-30 2021-03-04 Primera Technology, Inc. Delivery tray for food product printer
WO2021050063A1 (en) * 2019-09-11 2021-03-18 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printers with refillable printing fluid reservoirs
US20220193781A1 (en) * 2019-09-16 2022-06-23 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Circulation paths for fluid dispensing devices
US11912034B2 (en) 2019-10-31 2024-02-27 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Maintenance scheduling
WO2021086400A1 (en) * 2019-11-01 2021-05-06 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Apparatus having electric interconnects
JP2021111280A (en) * 2020-01-15 2021-08-02 キヤノン株式会社 Method and authentication device for forming mutual authentication pair
WO2021216063A1 (en) * 2020-04-22 2021-10-28 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Fluid ejection apparatus
US11090938B1 (en) * 2020-05-15 2021-08-17 Funai Electric Co., Ltd. Multi-array ejection head and method of use
JP2023537514A (en) 2020-08-13 2023-09-01 メムジェット テクノロジー リミテッド Inkjet printhead with wirebond strong encapsulation
WO2022093233A1 (en) * 2020-10-29 2022-05-05 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Tray to hold sheet media for printing
WO2022108591A1 (en) * 2020-11-20 2022-05-27 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Profile governing servicing maintenance of fluidic printhead nozzles
WO2022268427A1 (en) 2021-06-23 2022-12-29 Memjet Technology Limited Thermal regulation in long inkjet printhead
US11529599B1 (en) 2021-12-13 2022-12-20 Cana Technology, Inc. Electromechanical valve sequencing for fluid mixture dispensing devices
CN115071289A (en) * 2022-06-30 2022-09-20 珠海恒盛条码设备有限公司 Main part and base quick detach formula printer
CN117262812B (en) * 2023-11-21 2024-02-09 南京爱德印刷有限公司 Special thin dictionary paper Zhang Jiqi folding device

Family Cites Families (738)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US485435A (en) * 1892-11-01 Combined easy
US450148A (en) * 1891-04-14 Rotary fan
US386898A (en) * 1888-07-31 Secondary battery
US620651A (en) * 1899-03-07 Dress-guard for bicycles
US10A (en) * 1836-08-10 Gtttlslto andi
US86467A (en) * 1869-02-02 Egbert w
US270177A (en) * 1883-01-02 brooks
US587788A (en) * 1897-08-10 Morton
US590669A (en) * 1897-09-28 Horse-collar pad
US656198A (en) * 1897-03-10 1900-08-21 James R Maccoll Lappet-loom.
US644355A (en) * 1898-04-02 1900-02-27 George B Haycock Fountain-cuspidor.
US628912A (en) * 1898-07-29 1899-07-18 George William Bayley Acetylene-gas lamp.
US654398A (en) * 1899-04-15 1900-07-24 Ernest Hollings Guncotton-press.
US667584A (en) * 1900-05-01 1901-02-05 Sterling Arc Lamp Company Electric-arc lamp.
US655976A (en) * 1900-06-16 1900-08-14 Henry S Jacobs Bait or other net.
US6789191B1 (en) * 1999-05-25 2004-09-07 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Interactive device network registration protocol
US1880354A (en) 1931-07-30 1932-10-04 Herman C Mueller Fluid gun
US3214067A (en) 1962-09-11 1965-10-26 Thomas R Linington Fluid dispenser
US3270182A (en) * 1964-03-26 1966-08-30 Hynes Electric Heating Company High temperature fluid heater
GB1051747A (en) * 1964-08-28
US3403679A (en) 1964-12-11 1968-10-01 Secr Defence Brit Hypodermic injection apparatus with a secondary capsule-collapsing means
US3950761A (en) 1973-01-04 1976-04-13 Casio Computer Co., Ltd. Ink pressurizing apparatus for an ink jet recorder
US3948259A (en) 1973-03-09 1976-04-06 Population Research Incorporated Dispensing instrument
US3886938A (en) * 1973-10-23 1975-06-03 Scala Anthony Power operated fluid infusion device
US3868698A (en) * 1973-10-24 1975-02-25 Mead Corp Stimulation control apparatus for an ink jet recorder
DE2460573A1 (en) 1974-12-20 1976-07-01 Siemens Ag DEVICE FOR INKJET PEN FOR SUPPLYING PIEZOELECTRICALLY OPERATED WRITING NOZZLES WITH WRITING LIQUID
US4007465A (en) * 1975-11-17 1977-02-08 International Business Machines Corporation System for self-cleaning ink jet head
DE2607313C3 (en) 1976-02-23 1979-01-25 Siemens Ag, 1000 Berlin Und 8000 Muenchen Protection and cleaning device for writing heads in ink writing devices
DE2610518C3 (en) 1976-03-12 1983-04-07 Siemens AG, 1000 Berlin und 8000 München Ink reservoirs for ink writing devices
US4183031A (en) 1976-06-07 1980-01-08 Silonics, Inc. Ink supply system
JPS54103351A (en) * 1978-01-31 1979-08-14 Sharp Corp Fluid feed mechanism
JPS54123950A (en) 1978-03-17 1979-09-26 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Ink jet recorder
JPS55158975A (en) * 1979-05-26 1980-12-10 Ricoh Co Ltd Ink supplying mechanism of ink jet recording device
DE3022128C2 (en) * 1980-06-10 1983-12-08 Mannesmann AG, 4000 Düsseldorf Print head for generating print characters using the matrix printing process
DE3021913A1 (en) 1980-06-11 1981-12-17 Siemens AG, 1000 Berlin und 8000 München PIVOTING INK REFLECTOR FOR THE SCAN HEAD OF AN INK WRITER
US4329698A (en) * 1980-12-19 1982-05-11 International Business Machines Corporation Disposable cartridge for ink drop printer
US4342042A (en) 1980-12-19 1982-07-27 Pitney Bowes Inc. Ink supply system for an array of ink jet heads
US4333456A (en) 1981-02-09 1982-06-08 Sterling Drug Inc. Self-aspirating hypodermic syringe and self-aspirating assembly therefor
JPS57159658A (en) 1981-03-27 1982-10-01 Fujitsu Ltd Ink jet recording head
JPS57201682A (en) 1981-06-08 1982-12-10 Canon Inc Ink cassette
US4415101A (en) * 1982-01-22 1983-11-15 Shapiro Justin J Incremental liquid dispensing device
NZ203203A (en) 1982-02-16 1985-09-13 Commw Scient Ind Res Org Controlled release device:gas diffusion limited
US4558326A (en) * 1982-09-07 1985-12-10 Konishiroku Photo Industry Co., Ltd. Purging system for ink jet recording apparatus
US4500148A (en) * 1983-01-31 1985-02-19 H. King & Associates, Ltd. Display and storage unit
US4594697A (en) * 1983-05-25 1986-06-10 Pascouet Adrien P Pneumatically-operated liquid slug projector apparatus
US6247803B1 (en) 1983-10-13 2001-06-19 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink jet recording apparatus and method for replenishing ink in the tank cartridge
DE3401071A1 (en) 1984-01-13 1985-07-25 Siemens AG, 1000 Berlin und 8000 München Device for refilling ink containers in inking apparatuses
JPH0626886B2 (en) * 1984-01-30 1994-04-13 キヤノン株式会社 Liquid jet recording device
JPH0753450B2 (en) * 1984-03-31 1995-06-07 キヤノン株式会社 Liquid jet recording device
DE3564168D1 (en) * 1984-05-29 1988-09-08 Siemens Ag Device for reading and/or for printing on record carriers
US4580148A (en) 1985-02-19 1986-04-01 Xerox Corporation Thermal ink jet printer with droplet ejection by bubble collapse
US5202702A (en) * 1985-04-08 1993-04-13 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Ink jet recording apparatus and a method of cleaning a recording head used in the apparatus
US4591869A (en) 1985-04-12 1986-05-27 Eastman Kodak Company Ink jet printing apparatus and method providing an induced, clean-air region
US4719474A (en) 1985-07-19 1988-01-12 Rudolf Hell Gmbh Apparatus for imaging text and graphics on photosensitive material
US4594597A (en) 1985-08-13 1986-06-10 Sanders Associates, Inc. Thermal printer
US4612010A (en) 1985-08-14 1986-09-16 Hamacher Edward N Infiltration pump
US4694597A (en) * 1985-10-15 1987-09-22 Kuei Wen Sheu Electric perpetual calendar
JPS63502573A (en) 1986-02-25 1988-09-29 ジ−メンス　アクチエンゲゼルシヤフト Method and apparatus for sealing and cleaning ink outlet openings in ink print heads
US4832918A (en) 1986-06-12 1989-05-23 Inpal Co., Ltd. Rotary ozonizer
US4771295B1 (en) * 1986-07-01 1995-08-01 Hewlett Packard Co Thermal ink jet pen body construction having improved ink storage and feed capability
US4728969A (en) * 1986-07-11 1988-03-01 Tektronix, Inc. Air assisted ink jet head with single compartment ink chamber
US4727378A (en) * 1986-07-11 1988-02-23 Tektronix, Inc. Method and apparatus for purging an ink jet head
GB2197751A (en) * 1986-11-24 1988-05-25 Philips Electronic Associated Variable shaped spot electron beam pattern generator
US5019839A (en) * 1986-12-25 1991-05-28 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Recording apparatus having a movable sheet guide member
US4727387A (en) * 1987-06-24 1988-02-23 Blaser Industries, Inc. Paper-handling mechanism for laser printer
EP0526917B1 (en) * 1987-11-10 1996-06-12 Mita Industrial Co. Ltd. Image-forming machine
US4831389A (en) * 1987-12-21 1989-05-16 Hewlett-Packard Company Off board ink supply system and process for operating an ink jet printer
CH678169A5 (en) * 1988-03-07 1991-08-15 Rutishauser Data Ag
JPH01231755A (en) * 1988-03-08 1989-09-18 Fuji Xerox Co Ltd Device for detecting number of sheet of discharged paper
US4971527A (en) * 1988-03-30 1990-11-20 Videojet Systems International, Inc. Regulator valve for an ink marking system
DE3814720A1 (en) * 1988-04-30 1989-11-09 Olympia Aeg METHOD FOR PRODUCING A BASE PLATE WITH INTEGRATED WORKINGS FOR AN INK PRINT HEAD
US5182581A (en) * 1988-07-26 1993-01-26 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Ink jet recording unit having an ink tank section containing porous material and a recording head section
US5184178A (en) 1988-09-13 1993-02-02 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Image recording apparatus having an interchangeable cartridge
JPH02132026A (en) 1988-10-20 1990-05-21 Ricoh Co Ltd Image forming device
US6097407A (en) * 1988-11-09 2000-08-01 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Package for ink jet head
US4992802A (en) * 1988-12-22 1991-02-12 Hewlett-Packard Company Method and apparatus for extending the environmental operating range of an ink jet print cartridge
JP2683126B2 (en) 1988-12-28 1997-11-26 キヤノン株式会社 Ink jet recording device
JP2575205B2 (en) * 1989-01-13 1997-01-22 キヤノン株式会社 Ink tank
US4959667A (en) * 1989-02-14 1990-09-25 Hewlett-Packard Company Refillable ink bag
US5049898A (en) * 1989-03-20 1991-09-17 Hewlett-Packard Company Printhead having memory element
US4907019A (en) * 1989-03-27 1990-03-06 Tektronix, Inc. Ink jet cartridges and ink cartridge mounting system
US5006002A (en) 1989-04-11 1991-04-09 Clancy Systems International, Inc. Portable printing apparatus with movable paper feed gate
JP2810701B2 (en) * 1989-05-31 1998-10-15 キヤノン株式会社 Ink jet recording head and ink jet recording apparatus
US4973993A (en) 1989-07-11 1990-11-27 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink-quantity and low ink sensing for ink-jet printers
US4968998A (en) * 1989-07-26 1990-11-06 Hewlett-Packard Company Refillable ink jet print system
US4967207A (en) * 1989-07-26 1990-10-30 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink jet printer with self-regulating refilling system
US4935750A (en) * 1989-08-31 1990-06-19 Xerox Corporation Sealing means for thermal ink jet printheads
US5027134A (en) * 1989-09-01 1991-06-25 Hewlett-Packard Company Non-clogging cap and service station for ink-jet printheads
JP2771278B2 (en) * 1989-09-20 1998-07-02 株式会社日立製作所 Facsimile machine
US4935751A (en) * 1989-09-21 1990-06-19 Hewlett-Packard Company Level sensor for ink bag
EP0495785B1 (en) * 1989-10-13 1994-12-07 Eastman Kodak Company Printer
US4985710A (en) 1989-11-29 1991-01-15 Xerox Corporation Buttable subunits for pagewidth "Roofshooter" printheads
CA2019290A1 (en) * 1990-01-12 1991-07-12 Bruce Cowger Pressure-sensitive accumulator for ink-jet pens
US4978343A (en) * 1990-01-16 1990-12-18 Dysarz Edward D Trap in barrel one handed retractable safety syringe
ES2082124T3 (en) * 1990-01-17 1996-03-16 Canon Kk HEAD FOR PRINTING BY LIQUID JETS.
US5186449A (en) * 1990-01-23 1993-02-16 Mita Industrial Co., Ltd. Sheet feeder unit
JP2752495B2 (en) 1990-02-13 1998-05-18 キヤノン株式会社 Ink jet recording device
DE69115065T2 (en) 1990-02-02 1996-05-15 Canon Kk Method and device for recording.
DE69122539T2 (en) * 1990-02-13 1997-03-13 Canon Kk A cover device and an ink jet recording device using the same
GB2242867B (en) * 1990-02-15 1994-04-13 Canon Kk Waste ink receiving cartridge and ink recording apparatus using said cartridge
US5717444A (en) 1990-04-11 1998-02-10 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Suction recovery device and ink jet recording apparatus using the device
GB9010289D0 (en) 1990-05-08 1990-06-27 Xaar Ltd Drop-on-demand printing apparatus and method of manufacture
US5051761A (en) * 1990-05-09 1991-09-24 Xerox Corporation Ink jet printer having a paper handling and maintenance station assembly
JPH0427556A (en) * 1990-05-23 1992-01-30 Canon Inc Ink jet recorder
US5469199A (en) * 1990-08-16 1995-11-21 Hewlett-Packard Company Wide inkjet printhead
JP2713811B2 (en) * 1990-10-03 1998-02-16 キヤノン株式会社 Recording medium feeding device and recording device
US6249481B1 (en) * 1991-10-15 2001-06-19 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Semiconductor memory device
US5138332A (en) * 1990-10-29 1992-08-11 Xerox Corporation Ink jet printing apparatus
US5159348A (en) * 1990-10-29 1992-10-27 Xerox Corporation Ink jet printing apparatus
JP2752793B2 (en) * 1990-12-10 1998-05-18 キヤノン株式会社 Ink jet recording apparatus and ink tank cartridge for the apparatus
US5233369A (en) 1990-12-27 1993-08-03 Xerox Corporation Method and apparatus for supplying ink to an ink jet printer
DE69224921T2 (en) * 1991-01-11 1998-08-27 Canon Kk Ink jet recorder
JP2962838B2 (en) 1991-01-18 1999-10-12 キヤノン株式会社 Ink jet recording device
US6019457A (en) * 1991-01-30 2000-02-01 Canon Information Systems Research Australia Pty Ltd. Ink jet print device and print head or print apparatus using the same
JP3054208B2 (en) * 1991-03-01 2000-06-19 帝人製機株式会社 Magnetic field measurement device
JPH04288261A (en) 1991-03-18 1992-10-13 Canon Inc Recording apparatus
US5624196A (en) * 1991-04-16 1997-04-29 Hewlett-Packard Company Method and apparatus for paper control including kickers
US5185614A (en) * 1991-04-17 1993-02-09 Hewlett-Packard Company Priming apparatus and process for multi-color ink-jet pens
US5191382A (en) * 1991-04-22 1993-03-02 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Image forming system
JP2955384B2 (en) * 1991-04-26 1999-10-04 キヤノン株式会社 Image recording device
US5160945A (en) 1991-05-10 1992-11-03 Xerox Corporation Pagewidth thermal ink jet printhead
US6264314B1 (en) 1991-05-27 2001-07-24 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink cartridge for ink jet recording apparatus
US5192959A (en) 1991-06-03 1993-03-09 Xerox Corporation Alignment of pagewidth bars
US5359353A (en) 1991-06-19 1994-10-25 Hewlett-Packard Company Spring-bag printer ink cartridge with volume indicator
US5748216A (en) * 1991-06-19 1998-05-05 Hewlett-Packard Company Inkjet print cartridge having valve connectable to an external ink reservoir for recharging the print cartridge
US5963238A (en) * 1991-06-19 1999-10-05 Hewlett-Packard Company Intermittent refilling of print cartridge installed in an inkjet printer
US5793387A (en) * 1991-06-19 1998-08-11 Hewlett-Packard Company Method and apparatus for ink-jet ink level detection
US5745137A (en) * 1992-08-12 1998-04-28 Hewlett-Packard Company Continuous refill of spring bag reservoir in an ink-jet swath printer/plotter
US5187498A (en) * 1991-07-24 1993-02-16 Xerox Corporation Ink supply container and system
US5155497A (en) 1991-07-30 1992-10-13 Hewlett-Packard Company Service station for ink-jet printer
JP3012043B2 (en) * 1991-08-20 2000-02-21 三田工業株式会社 Optional equipment
JP3351436B2 (en) 1991-08-21 2002-11-25 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Two-part adhesive sheet material having pores
JPH0584919A (en) * 1991-09-27 1993-04-06 Seiko Epson Corp Ink jet head
JP3009764B2 (en) 1991-10-03 2000-02-14 キヤノン株式会社 Ink jet recording device
JP2761685B2 (en) * 1991-10-17 1998-06-04 三菱電機株式会社 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
KR940003112B1 (en) * 1991-10-25 1994-04-13 삼성전자 주식회사 Cassette for feeding papers in a copier
US5216442A (en) * 1991-11-14 1993-06-01 Xerox Corporation Moving platen architecture for an ink jet printer
US5222186A (en) * 1991-12-06 1993-06-22 Globol Gmbh Electrical apparatus for vaporizing of active substances
US5613952A (en) 1991-12-23 1997-03-25 Syringe Develpoment Partners Safety syringe
US5477963A (en) * 1992-01-28 1995-12-26 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink-jet recording apparatus and ink tank cartridge therefor
CN1096943C (en) 1992-02-26 2002-12-25 佳能株式会社 Ink jet record method and recorded material thereof
EP0560562B1 (en) 1992-03-09 1999-07-07 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Multi recording system using monochrome printer
US5406320A (en) * 1992-03-10 1995-04-11 Scitex Digital Printing, Inc. Ink replenishment assemblies for ink jet printers
US5467118A (en) 1993-12-21 1995-11-14 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink cartridge for a hard copy printing or plotting apparatus
US5396268A (en) * 1992-03-27 1995-03-07 Scitex Digital Printing, Inc. Refill apparatus and method
DE69309153T2 (en) * 1992-06-04 1997-10-09 Tektronix Inc On-demand ink jet print head with improved cleaning performance
US5294946A (en) 1992-06-08 1994-03-15 Signtech Usa, Ltd. Ink jet printer
IT1256844B (en) * 1992-06-08 1995-12-21 Olivetti & Co Spa METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE RECOGNITION OF THE END-INK IN AN INK-JET PRINT HEAD.
US5757390A (en) * 1992-08-12 1998-05-26 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink volume sensing and replenishing system
US5754207A (en) * 1992-08-12 1998-05-19 Hewlett-Packard Company Volume indicating ink reservoir cartridge system
US5450112A (en) * 1992-12-23 1995-09-12 Hewlett-Packard Company Laminated film for ink reservoir
JPH06125141A (en) * 1992-08-25 1994-05-06 Olympus Optical Co Ltd Semiconductor quantum well optical element
US5359356A (en) 1992-09-30 1994-10-25 Ecklund Joel E Collapsible jet-ink container assembly and method
US5455609A (en) 1992-09-30 1995-10-03 Hewlett-Packard Company Printhead servicing station for printers
US5561450A (en) 1992-09-30 1996-10-01 Pitney Bowes Inc. Apparatus for mounting an ink jet cartridge on a support therefor
US5238044A (en) * 1992-10-20 1993-08-24 Gilley Paul D Window treatment support device
US5221397A (en) 1992-11-02 1993-06-22 Xerox Corporation Fabrication of reading or writing bar arrays assembled from subunits
US5404158A (en) 1992-11-12 1995-04-04 Xerox Corporation Ink jet printer maintenance system
CA2112182C (en) 1992-12-25 2000-06-27 Masami Ikeda Detachable ink jet unit and ink jet apparatus
US5527871A (en) * 1992-12-28 1996-06-18 Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota Chuo Kenkyusho Layered inorganic-organic polymer shaped article thereof and process for producing the same
JP3356818B2 (en) * 1993-03-09 2002-12-16 富士ゼロックス株式会社 Ink supply device for inkjet recording device
US5365645A (en) 1993-03-19 1994-11-22 Compaq Computer Corporation Methods of fabricating a page wide piezoelectric ink jet printhead assembly
JPH06317953A (en) * 1993-04-28 1994-11-15 Canon Inc Frame structure and image forming device
US5392063A (en) * 1993-04-30 1995-02-21 Hewlett-Packard Company Spring cartridge clamp for inkjet printer carriage
US5825378A (en) 1993-04-30 1998-10-20 Hewlett-Packard Company Calibration of media advancement to avoid banding in a swath printer
US6206513B1 (en) * 1993-06-29 2001-03-27 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Ink tank unit, an ink jet cartridge having said ink tank unit and an ink jet apparatus having said ink jet cartridge
JPH0728392A (en) * 1993-07-12 1995-01-31 Omron Corp Programmable controller
US5891086A (en) 1993-07-31 1999-04-06 Weston Medical Limited Needle-less injector
JPH0749463A (en) * 1993-08-05 1995-02-21 Fuji Xerox Co Ltd Optical deflector
JP3155667B2 (en) 1993-08-10 2001-04-16 キヤノン株式会社 Recording device
JP3133906B2 (en) * 1993-08-19 2001-02-13 キヤノン株式会社 Ink tank cartridge
EP0640482B1 (en) * 1993-08-23 2002-04-10 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Exchangeable ink cartridge
US5532825A (en) * 1993-08-30 1996-07-02 Hewlett-Packard Company Add-on scanner for existing ink jet printer
JP3217610B2 (en) * 1993-09-03 2001-10-09 キヤノン株式会社 Ink jet recording device and information processing system
IT1272050B (en) 1993-11-10 1997-06-11 Olivetti Canon Ind Spa PARALLEL PRINTER DEVICE WITH MODULAR STRUCTURE AND RELATED CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURE.
US5696546A (en) * 1993-11-15 1997-12-09 Xerox Corporation Ink supply cartridge with ink jet printhead having improved fluid seal therebetween
JP3219609B2 (en) * 1993-11-29 2001-10-15 キヤノン株式会社 Ink refill device and ink refill method
US5619239A (en) 1993-11-29 1997-04-08 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Replaceable ink tank
US5400573A (en) * 1993-12-14 1995-03-28 Crystal; Richard G. Kit and method for opening, refilling and sealing a cartridge
JP3298279B2 (en) * 1993-12-24 2002-07-02 株式会社村田製作所 Dielectric resonator device, method of adjusting coupling coefficient thereof, and device for manufacturing the same
US5657065A (en) * 1994-01-03 1997-08-12 Xerox Corporation Porous medium for ink delivery systems
US5369017A (en) * 1994-02-04 1994-11-29 The Scripps Research Institute Process for solid phase glycopeptide synthesis
US5565900A (en) 1994-02-04 1996-10-15 Hewlett-Packard Company Unit print head assembly for ink-jet printing
US5682186A (en) * 1994-03-10 1997-10-28 Hewlett-Packard Company Protective capping apparatus for an ink-jet pen
US5572245A (en) 1994-03-10 1996-11-05 Hewlett-Packard Company Protective cover apparatus for an ink-jet pen
US5712668A (en) * 1994-03-25 1998-01-27 Hewlett-Packard Company Rotary Multi-ridge capping system for inkjet printheads
US5574489A (en) * 1994-03-30 1996-11-12 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink cartridge system for ink-jet printer
US5515663A (en) 1994-04-06 1996-05-14 Nu-Kote International, Inc. Method of refilling ink-jet printer cartridges
JPH07311058A (en) 1994-05-20 1995-11-28 Citizen Watch Co Ltd Ink cartridge
US5640644A (en) * 1994-06-07 1997-06-17 Konica Corporation Image forming apparatus having toner replenishment device
US5581287A (en) 1994-06-30 1996-12-03 Jetfill, Inc. Inkjet printer ink cartridge refilling structure
US5572244A (en) 1994-07-27 1996-11-05 Xerox Corporation Adhesive-free edge butting for printhead elements
WO1996005061A1 (en) * 1994-08-09 1996-02-22 Encad, Inc. Printer ink cartridge
EP1203668B1 (en) 1994-08-24 2008-10-22 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Ink container for ink jet printer, holder for the container carriage for the holder and ink jet printer
US5530463A (en) * 1994-08-25 1996-06-25 Xerox Corporation Integral seal for ink jet printheads
US5431389A (en) * 1994-08-26 1995-07-11 Wensink; Gary L. Hand scanner support and paper guide apparatus
US6238042B1 (en) 1994-09-16 2001-05-29 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink cartridge for ink jet printer and method of charging ink into said cartridge
US5673073A (en) * 1994-09-29 1997-09-30 Hewlett-Packard Company Syringe for filling print cartridge and establishing correct back pressure
US5585528A (en) * 1994-09-30 1996-12-17 Shell Oil Company Cobalt-catalyzed process for preparing 1,3-propanediol using a lipophilic tertiary amine promoter
US5587730A (en) 1994-09-30 1996-12-24 Xerox Corporation Redundant full width array thermal ink jet printing for improved reliability
JP3230948B2 (en) * 1994-10-03 2001-11-19 キヤノン株式会社 Image forming device
JPH08174860A (en) * 1994-10-26 1996-07-09 Seiko Epson Corp Ink cartridge for ink jet printer
US5980032A (en) * 1994-10-31 1999-11-09 Hewlett-Packard Company Compliant ink interconnect between print cartridge and carriage
US6367918B1 (en) 1994-10-31 2002-04-09 Hewlett-Packard Company Unitary latching device for secure positioning of print cartridge during printing, priming and replenishment
US5673072A (en) 1994-10-31 1997-09-30 Hewlett-Packard Company Method and apparatus for refilling a print cartridge having a spherical stopper
US5852459A (en) 1994-10-31 1998-12-22 Hewlett-Packard Company Printer using print cartridge with internal pressure regulator
EP0927641B1 (en) * 1994-11-02 2002-03-13 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink jet recording unit
US6010213A (en) 1994-11-18 2000-01-04 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink supply device for use in ink jet printer and ink tank for use in the same device
US5575466A (en) * 1994-11-21 1996-11-19 Unisys Corporation Document transport with variable pinch-roll force for gap adjust
US5585825A (en) * 1994-11-25 1996-12-17 Xerox Corporation Ink jet printer having temperature sensor for replaceable printheads
US5581284A (en) 1994-11-25 1996-12-03 Xerox Corporation Method of extending the life of a printbar of a color ink jet printer
US5680164A (en) * 1994-11-29 1997-10-21 Hewlett-Packard Company Refill method and apparatus for ink cartridge units
US5699091A (en) 1994-12-22 1997-12-16 Hewlett-Packard Company Replaceable part with integral memory for usage, calibration and other data
US5812156A (en) * 1997-01-21 1998-09-22 Hewlett-Packard Company Apparatus controlled by data from consumable parts with incorporated memory devices
JP3417434B2 (en) 1995-01-05 2003-06-16 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Ink cartridge for inkjet printer
EP0722839A3 (en) * 1995-01-17 1998-01-07 Hewlett-Packard Company Inkjet printer system with auxiliary high volume input tray
US5742305A (en) * 1995-01-20 1998-04-21 Hewlett-Packard PWA inkjet printer element with resident memory
JPH08267871A (en) 1995-02-03 1996-10-15 Alps Electric Co Ltd Thermal printer
JPH08230260A (en) * 1995-03-01 1996-09-10 Seiko Epson Corp Image forming device
JP3324629B2 (en) 1995-03-13 2002-09-17 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Storage case for inkjet printing unit
US5631681A (en) * 1995-03-29 1997-05-20 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink replenishing system and method for ink-jet printers
US5984446A (en) * 1995-04-12 1999-11-16 Eastman Kodak Company Color office printer with a high capacity digital page image store
US6053598A (en) 1995-04-13 2000-04-25 Pitney Bowes Inc. Multiple print head packaging for ink jet printer
US6322207B1 (en) * 1995-04-27 2001-11-27 Hewlett-Packard Company Replaceable pump module for receiving replaceable ink supplies to provide ink to an ink jet printing system
US6318850B1 (en) 1995-12-04 2001-11-20 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink container refurbishment system
US7249831B2 (en) 1995-04-27 2007-07-31 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Ink container refurbishment system
US5900896A (en) * 1995-04-27 1999-05-04 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink cartridge adapters
US5877788A (en) * 1995-05-09 1999-03-02 Moore Business Forms, Inc. Cleaning fluid apparatus and method for continuous printing ink-jet nozzle
US5992985A (en) 1995-05-31 1999-11-30 Hewlett-Packard Company Variable pressure control for ink replenishment of on-carriage print cartridge
EP1034929B1 (en) * 1995-06-12 2001-11-14 Citizen Watch Co., Ltd. Jig for manufacturing an ink jet head
US5736957A (en) * 1995-06-30 1998-04-07 The Johns Hopkins University Delay compensated doppler radar altimeter
US5711516A (en) * 1995-07-05 1998-01-27 Storm Technology Inc. Sheet feeder having sloping sheet support side for use with detachable image scanner
JP3376216B2 (en) 1995-07-18 2003-02-10 キヤノン株式会社 Image forming device
JPH0939265A (en) * 1995-07-29 1997-02-10 Seiko Epson Corp Ink cartridge for printer and identifying device therefor
US5623876A (en) 1995-08-23 1997-04-29 Pitney Bowes Inc. Apparatus and method for positioning a printing mechanism between stations in a mail handling apparatus
US5577613A (en) * 1995-09-06 1996-11-26 Hewlett-Packard Company Integrated carry handle and accessory interlock system
DE69602573T2 (en) * 1995-10-26 1999-09-23 Hewlett Packard Co Ink retention device for ink jet pens
US6017117A (en) 1995-10-31 2000-01-25 Hewlett-Packard Company Printhead with pump driven ink circulation
US6135586A (en) 1995-10-31 2000-10-24 Hewlett-Packard Company Large area inkjet printhead
DE69624063T2 (en) 1995-11-08 2003-02-13 Canon Kk Dye refill method and apparatus, ink container and ink jet recording apparatus with such a device
JP3653833B2 (en) * 1995-11-18 2005-06-02 ブラザー工業株式会社 Inkjet printer
US5785308A (en) * 1995-11-28 1998-07-28 Lexmark International, Inc. Media pass through configuration for printers
US5790146A (en) * 1995-12-04 1998-08-04 Xerox Corporation Fluid applicator for maintenance of liquid ink printers
US5900895A (en) * 1995-12-04 1999-05-04 Hewlett-Packard Company Method for refilling an ink supply for an ink-jet printer
DE19545775C2 (en) * 1995-12-07 1999-03-25 Pelikan Produktions Ag Liquid cartridge, in particular an ink cartridge for a print head of an ink jet printer
US5997121A (en) 1995-12-14 1999-12-07 Xerox Corporation Sensing system for detecting presence of an ink container and level of ink therein
US5676475A (en) * 1995-12-15 1997-10-14 Encad, Inc. Smart print carriage incorporating circuitry for processing data
KR100200965B1 (en) * 1995-12-30 1999-06-15 윤종용 A second cassette feeder using electrographic method
EP0827836B1 (en) 1996-02-21 2005-05-04 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink cartridge
JP3467676B2 (en) 1996-03-14 2003-11-17 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Ink jet recording device and ink cartridge
US5886719A (en) 1996-03-14 1999-03-23 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink valve having a releasable tip for a print cartridge recharge system
JP3366522B2 (en) * 1996-03-16 2003-01-14 京セラミタ株式会社 Image forming apparatus positioning mechanism
KR0174704B1 (en) 1996-03-29 1999-05-15 김광호 Re-charging method of color ink of ink jet printer
US5751311A (en) * 1996-03-29 1998-05-12 Xerox Corporation Hybrid ink jet printer with alignment of scanning printheads to pagewidth printbar
DE19613945C2 (en) 1996-04-06 1999-04-22 Francotyp Postalia Gmbh Reusability lock for an ink supply container
FI961649A0 (en) * 1996-04-15 1996-04-15 Labsystems Oy Spaerrpipett
JP3450643B2 (en) 1996-04-25 2003-09-29 キヤノン株式会社 Liquid replenishing method for liquid container, liquid ejection recording apparatus using the replenishing method, liquid replenishing container, liquid container, and head cartridge
KR0174668B1 (en) * 1996-05-22 1999-05-15 김광호 Head cartridge of ink jet printer
US5877795A (en) * 1996-05-24 1999-03-02 Hewlett-Packard Co. Methods and designs to purge air from ink tubes during initial startup
CA2209866C (en) 1996-07-05 2003-12-09 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink cartridge and loading mechanism for the ink cartridge
JPH1024582A (en) * 1996-07-12 1998-01-27 Canon Inc Liquid discharge head, recovery of liquid discharge head, manufacture thereof, and liquid discharge device using liquid discharge head
EP0819533A3 (en) 1996-07-12 1998-11-25 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha A method for standardizing an ink jet jet recording head and an ink jet recording head for attaining such standardization, ink jet recording method, and information processing apparatus, and host apparatus
US6290343B1 (en) * 1996-07-15 2001-09-18 Hewlett-Packard Company Monitoring and controlling ink pressurization in a modular ink delivery system for an inkjet printer
JPH1044418A (en) * 1996-07-31 1998-02-17 Canon Inc Ink jet recording head and ink jet recording apparatus using the same
JP3445097B2 (en) * 1996-08-12 2003-09-08 キヤノン株式会社 Printing equipment
JPH10109458A (en) 1996-08-14 1998-04-28 Seiko Epson Corp Recording head position adjusting mechanism for ink jet recording device
JPH1058758A (en) 1996-08-20 1998-03-03 Brother Ind Ltd Scanning printer
JPH1063454A (en) * 1996-08-21 1998-03-06 Niigata Nippon Denki Software Kk Printing processing system
US6347863B1 (en) * 1996-08-23 2002-02-19 Kenneth Yuen Ink cap
TW330907B (en) 1996-09-09 1998-05-01 Riso Kagaku Corp The ink container and ink supplied device for packing ink container
JPH1086467A (en) 1996-09-10 1998-04-07 Mutoh Ind Ltd Paper bail in ink jet printer
FI104222B1 (en) 1996-10-03 1999-11-30 Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd Modular mobile communication system
US6113229A (en) * 1996-10-07 2000-09-05 Hewlett-Packard Company Interchangeable fluid interconnect attachment and interface
US6120132A (en) * 1996-10-07 2000-09-19 Hewlett-Packard Company Assembly technique using modular ink delivery components for installation in an inkjet printer
US5929883A (en) 1997-03-03 1999-07-27 Hewlett-Packard Company Printing system with single on/off control valve for periodic ink replenishment of inkjet printhead
JPH10134163A (en) 1996-11-05 1998-05-22 Pfu Ltd Device with scanner
KR100211795B1 (en) * 1996-11-08 1999-08-02 윤종용 Driving device for subsidiary sheet feeding device of laser beam printer
JP3513377B2 (en) 1996-12-05 2004-03-31 キヤノン株式会社 Method for filling liquid into liquid container, filling unit for carrying out the method, liquid container manufactured by the method, and liquid ejection recording apparatus
US6227638B1 (en) 1997-01-21 2001-05-08 Hewlett-Packard Company Electrical refurbishment for ink delivery system
US5870117A (en) 1997-01-21 1999-02-09 Xerox Corporation Liquid ink printer including a camming printhead to enable increased resolution printing
US5788388A (en) * 1997-01-21 1998-08-04 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink jet cartridge with ink level detection
US5746528A (en) * 1997-02-26 1998-05-05 Hewlett-Packard Company Hard copy apparatus with a print media telescoping tray system
US6139135A (en) * 1997-03-03 2000-10-31 Hewlett-Packard Company Inkjet printing with replaceable set of ink-related components (printhead/service module/ink supply) for each color of ink
DE19710070C2 (en) * 1997-03-12 2000-11-30 Voith Turbo Kg Power transmission unit
US5730537A (en) * 1997-03-13 1998-03-24 Hewlett-Packard Company Print media handling and ejection system
JP2874687B2 (en) 1997-03-27 1999-03-24 日本電気株式会社 Ink cartridge and inkjet recording device
US6045214A (en) 1997-03-28 2000-04-04 Lexmark International, Inc. Ink jet printer nozzle plate having improved flow feature design and method of making nozzle plates
EP1221628B1 (en) * 1997-04-24 2005-10-26 Bridgestone Corporation Optical transmission tube, method for making it and linear illuminant system
JP3332795B2 (en) * 1997-04-28 2002-10-07 キヤノン株式会社 Ink tank and inkjet cartridge
CN2353532Y (en) 1997-05-12 1999-12-15 珠海飞马耗材有限公司 Ink-filling device
JP3382501B2 (en) * 1997-05-15 2003-03-04 キヤノン株式会社 Image forming device
US5949459A (en) 1997-06-04 1999-09-07 Hewlett-Packard Company Method and apparatus for securing an ink container
US6010210A (en) 1997-06-04 2000-01-04 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink container having a multiple function chassis
US6067906A (en) 1997-06-10 2000-05-30 Walter Stobb Assoicates, Inc. Method and apparatus for dispensing ink to a printing press
US6092943A (en) * 1997-06-11 2000-07-25 Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Apparatus and method for measuring printing paper quantity and warning printing part exchange time
US6547364B2 (en) 1997-07-12 2003-04-15 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing cartridge with an integrated circuit device
US6238044B1 (en) 2000-06-30 2001-05-29 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Print cartridge
AUPP259398A0 (en) 1998-03-25 1998-04-23 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Image creation method and apparatus (IJ41)
US6382769B1 (en) 1997-07-15 2002-05-07 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of tab alignment in an integrated circuit type device
US6270182B1 (en) * 1997-07-15 2001-08-07 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet print head recapping mechanism
US6588882B2 (en) * 1997-07-15 2003-07-08 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printheads
US6318849B1 (en) 1997-07-15 2001-11-20 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Fluid supply mechanism for multiple fluids to multiple spaced orifices
AUPP398798A0 (en) * 1998-06-09 1998-07-02 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Image creation method and apparatus (ij43)
US6857724B2 (en) 1997-07-15 2005-02-22 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Print assembly for a wide format pagewidth printer
US20040246311A1 (en) * 1997-07-15 2004-12-09 Kia Silverbrook Inkjet printhead with heater element close to drive circuits
US7556356B1 (en) * 1997-07-15 2009-07-07 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printhead integrated circuit with ink spread prevention
US6293658B1 (en) 1997-07-15 2001-09-25 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead ink supply system
US6652052B2 (en) 1997-07-15 2003-11-25 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Processing of images for high volume pagewidth printing
US6679584B2 (en) 1997-07-15 2004-01-20 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd. High volume pagewidth printing
US6672706B2 (en) * 1997-07-15 2004-01-06 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Wide format pagewidth inkjet printer
US6152619A (en) 1997-07-15 2000-11-28 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. Portable camera with an ink jet printer and cutting blade
JPH1170720A (en) * 1997-08-29 1999-03-16 Seiko Epson Corp Test dot recording method and apparatus
JP2001512064A (en) * 1997-08-01 2001-08-21 マルコニ データ システムズ インコーポレイテッド Automatic priming and ink system for inkjet printer
EP0899112B1 (en) * 1997-08-20 2003-07-23 Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Inkjet printer and ink container used therein
AUPO888097A0 (en) * 1997-08-29 1997-09-25 Biotech Australia Pty Limited Cross-linked particles
US6033060A (en) * 1997-08-29 2000-03-07 Topaz Technologies, Inc. Multi-channel ink supply pump
US6027209A (en) 1997-09-03 2000-02-22 Hewlett-Packard Company Ordered storage and/or removal of inkjet cartridges and capping means from a storage container
FR2768078B1 (en) * 1997-09-10 1999-11-26 Neopost Ind MAINTENANCE STATION FOR INK JET PRINTING MACHINE
JPH1178013A (en) * 1997-09-12 1999-03-23 Seiko Epson Corp Ink jet line type recording head
US6158837A (en) * 1997-09-19 2000-12-12 Xerox Corporation Printer having print mode for non-qualified marking material
US6276787B1 (en) 1997-09-26 2001-08-21 Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Ink supplying device
US6508546B2 (en) 1998-10-16 2003-01-21 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Ink supply arrangement for a portable ink jet printer
DE69816559T2 (en) * 1997-10-24 2004-06-09 Oki Data Corp. The image recording device
US6250738B1 (en) * 1997-10-28 2001-06-26 Hewlett-Packard Company Inkjet printing apparatus with ink manifold
US6350013B1 (en) * 1997-10-28 2002-02-26 Hewlett-Packard Company Carrier positioning for wide-array inkjet printhead assembly
US6123410A (en) * 1997-10-28 2000-09-26 Hewlett-Packard Company Scalable wide-array inkjet printhead and method for fabricating same
JPH11198495A (en) * 1997-11-11 1999-07-27 Brother Ind Ltd Image forming apparatus
US6206506B1 (en) * 1997-11-17 2001-03-27 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Ink jet printer having an ink cleaning mechanism
US6128098A (en) * 1997-11-17 2000-10-03 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Control over print head driving parameters
US6203139B1 (en) 1997-12-05 2001-03-20 Hewlett-Packard Company Carriage random vibration
US6113232A (en) 1997-12-19 2000-09-05 Hewlett-Packard Company Stationary pen printer
US6158848A (en) * 1997-12-31 2000-12-12 Liu; Win-Yin Refilling device for ink cartridge of a jet printer
JPH11192720A (en) 1998-01-05 1999-07-21 Seiko Epson Corp Ink jet recorder, ink filling method, and ink supplying method
US6155669A (en) * 1998-01-08 2000-12-05 Xerox Corporation Pagewidth ink jet printer including a printbar mounted encoding system
US6079819A (en) 1998-01-08 2000-06-27 Xerox Corporation Ink jet printhead having a low cross talk ink channel structure
US6305793B1 (en) 1998-01-23 2001-10-23 Hewlett-Packard Company Diaphragm pump having an integral pressure plate
US6481824B1 (en) 1998-01-30 2002-11-19 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink jet recording apparatus and recording head cleaning control method thereon
KR100307584B1 (en) * 1998-02-27 2001-12-12 윤종용 Apparatus for supplying ink for liquid electrographic printer
US6271928B1 (en) 1998-03-04 2001-08-07 Hewlett-Packard Company Electrical storage device for a replaceable printing component
US6439682B1 (en) * 1998-03-05 2002-08-27 Seiko Epson Corporation Printing method, printing apparatus, and recording medium
JP4018286B2 (en) 1998-03-11 2007-12-05 キヤノン株式会社 Inkjet recording method and apparatus and recording system
US6493937B1 (en) 1998-03-16 2002-12-17 Hewlett-Packard Company Method of manufacture for ink-jet hard copy apparatus using a modular approach to ink-jet technology
DE69918368T2 (en) * 1998-04-28 2005-08-18 Canon K.K. Ink jet recording apparatus
SG95595A1 (en) * 1998-05-13 2003-04-23 Seiko Epson Corp Ink cartridge for ink-jet printing apparatus
DK0997297T3 (en) * 1998-05-18 2003-09-15 Seiko Epson Corp Ink-jet printer apparatus and ink cartridge
JPH11334051A (en) 1998-05-28 1999-12-07 Toshiba Tec Corp Ink jet recording device
JPH11342621A (en) * 1998-05-29 1999-12-14 Canon Inc Ink jet recording apparatus
US6820959B1 (en) * 1998-06-03 2004-11-23 Lexmark International, In.C Ink jet cartridge structure
US6206511B1 (en) 1998-06-19 2001-03-27 Lexmark International, Inc. Multiple-cartridge off-board ink supplies for color ink jet printers
US6158850A (en) * 1998-06-19 2000-12-12 Lexmark International, Inc. On carrier secondary ink tank with memory and flow control means
US6155664A (en) * 1998-06-19 2000-12-05 Lexmark International, Inc. Off-carrier inkjet print supply with memory
US6161915A (en) 1998-06-19 2000-12-19 Lexmark International, Inc Identification of thermal inkjet printer cartridges
US5969736A (en) * 1998-07-14 1999-10-19 Hewlett-Packard Company Passive pressure regulator for setting the pressure of a liquid to a predetermined pressure differential below a reference pressure
US6282769B1 (en) * 1998-07-15 2001-09-04 Cosma International Inc. Motor vehicle end module assembly
JP3610236B2 (en) * 1998-07-30 2005-01-12 キヤノン株式会社 Recording device
US6378984B1 (en) * 1998-07-31 2002-04-30 Hewlett-Packard Company Reinforcing features in flex circuit to provide improved performance in a thermal inkjet printhead
US6454400B1 (en) 1998-09-01 2002-09-24 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Liquid container, cartridge including liquid container, printing apparatus using cartridge and liquid discharge printing apparatus
US6488352B1 (en) 1998-09-03 2002-12-03 Hewlett-Packard Company Method and apparatus for checking compatibility of a replaceable printing component
EP1115740A1 (en) * 1998-09-23 2001-07-18 The Regents of the University of California Synthetic peptides, conjugation reagents and methods
US6505924B2 (en) * 1998-09-30 2003-01-14 Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Ink cartridge
US6065826A (en) * 1998-10-06 2000-05-23 Hewlett-Packard Company Modular print cartridge receptacle for use in inkjet printing systems
US6148172A (en) * 1998-10-09 2000-11-14 Konica Corporation Image forming apparatus having means for enhancing accuracy of conveyance of recording sheets
DE69929170T2 (en) * 1998-10-13 2006-08-31 Seiko Epson Corp. INK JET RECORDING DEVICE
JP2000118783A (en) * 1998-10-16 2000-04-25 Canon Inc Image forming device
US6151041A (en) * 1998-10-19 2000-11-21 Lexmark International, Inc. Less restrictive print head cartridge installation in an ink jet printer
JP3495926B2 (en) * 1998-10-27 2004-02-09 キヤノン株式会社 Recording device
MY138001A (en) * 1998-11-02 2009-04-30 Seiko Epson Corp Ink cartridge and printer using the same
US6136210A (en) * 1998-11-02 2000-10-24 Xerox Corporation Photoetching of acoustic lenses for acoustic ink printing
AUPP702498A0 (en) * 1998-11-09 1998-12-03 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Image creation method and apparatus (ART77)
US6547368B2 (en) 1998-11-09 2003-04-15 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printer including printhead capping mechanism
AUPP701998A0 (en) 1998-11-09 1998-12-03 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Image creation method and apparatus (ART74)
AUPP702698A0 (en) 1998-11-09 1998-12-03 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Image creation method and apparatus(ART78)
US6149256A (en) 1998-11-24 2000-11-21 Eastman Kodak Company Insertable cartridge for digital camera with ink jet printer
JP4314702B2 (en) 1998-11-26 2009-08-19 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Printing apparatus, writing method, and printer
JP2000158748A (en) 1998-11-27 2000-06-13 Canon Inc Imaging apparatus
US6400844B1 (en) * 1998-12-02 2002-06-04 Xerox Corporation Method and apparatus for segmenting data to create mixed raster content planes
US6130684A (en) * 1998-12-09 2000-10-10 Xerox Corporation Maintenance station for an ink jet printhead with improved capping and wiping system
SG116487A1 (en) 1998-12-16 2005-11-28 Silverbrook Res Pty Ltd Duplex inkjet printing system.
WO2000035675A1 (en) * 1998-12-16 2000-06-22 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd A printer for incorporation into consumer electronic (ce) systems with limited access
US6341845B1 (en) 2000-08-25 2002-01-29 Hewlett-Packard Company Electrical connection for wide-array inkjet printhead assembly with hybrid carrier for printhead dies
US6428145B1 (en) 1998-12-17 2002-08-06 Hewlett-Packard Company Wide-array inkjet printhead assembly with internal electrical routing system
ATE353764T1 (en) 1998-12-24 2007-03-15 Seiko Epson Corp INK SAG FOR INK JET RECORDING APPARATUS AND PACKAGE FOR PACKAGING SUCH A SAG
US6541872B1 (en) * 1999-01-11 2003-04-01 Micron Technology, Inc. Multi-layered adhesive for attaching a semiconductor die to a substrate
JP2000211115A (en) * 1999-01-20 2000-08-02 Toshiba Tec Corp Ink-jet printer
US6172695B1 (en) 1999-01-25 2001-01-09 Win-Yin Liu Ink replenishing device for link cartridge of a jet printer
JP3592172B2 (en) * 1999-01-27 2004-11-24 キヤノン株式会社 Method of manufacturing ink jet recording head, ink jet recording head manufactured by the method, and ink jet recording apparatus equipped with the ink jet recording head
US6241349B1 (en) * 1999-01-28 2001-06-05 Hewlett-Packard Company High-durability ink containment unit for use in an ink delivery system
US6137508A (en) * 1999-02-04 2000-10-24 Hewlett-Packard Company Printhead de-multiplexing and interconnect on carriage mounted flex circuit
JP3455798B2 (en) 1999-02-04 2003-10-14 カシオ計算機株式会社 Ink jet recording apparatus, ink cartridge and ink replenishing tool used therefor
WO2000047417A1 (en) 1999-02-15 2000-08-17 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink jet recorder
US6349908B1 (en) * 1999-02-17 2002-02-26 Eagle Electric Manufacturing Co., Inc. Standoff assembly and method for supporting an electrical component
US6364458B2 (en) * 1999-02-18 2002-04-02 Hewlett-Packard Company Pivoted printhead handle with recessed rest position
US6476928B1 (en) * 1999-02-19 2002-11-05 Hewlett-Packard Co. System and method for controlling internal operations of a processor of an inkjet printhead
US6183063B1 (en) 1999-03-04 2001-02-06 Lexmark International, Inc. Angled printer cartridge
US6474776B1 (en) 1999-03-04 2002-11-05 Encad, Inc. Ink jet cartridge with two jet plates
GB2343415C (en) 1999-03-09 2014-10-22 Richard Gardiner An ink jet printer
EP1161195B1 (en) 1999-03-12 2003-10-15 Meditecnic Inc Device for sealing the pulp cavity in a devitalized tooth
AUPP922299A0 (en) 1999-03-16 1999-04-15 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd An image creation method and apparatus (macro 01)
EP1080918B1 (en) 1999-03-29 2004-05-26 Seiko Epson Corporation Method and device for filling ink into ink cartridge
TW522099B (en) 1999-03-31 2003-03-01 Seiko Epson Corp Printing system, printing controller, printer, method for controlling printing operations, printing method, ink box, ink provider, and recording medium
US6106178A (en) 1999-04-12 2000-08-22 Hewlett-Packard Company Printer and printer paper tray
AUPP996099A0 (en) 1999-04-23 1999-05-20 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd A method and apparatus(sprint01)
US6293649B1 (en) 1999-04-30 2001-09-25 Hewlett-Packard Company Print cartridge latching mechanism for a displaceable print cartridge chute
DE19920921B4 (en) * 1999-05-06 2005-03-03 Artech Gmbh Design + Production In Plastic Ink supply tank for an inkjet printhead
SG114455A1 (en) * 1999-05-10 2005-09-28 Kong Keng Wah Trading As Oem S An ink cartridge refilling system and a method of refilling an ink cartridge
AUPQ056099A0 (en) 1999-05-25 1999-06-17 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd A method and apparatus (pprint01)
US6785016B1 (en) 1999-05-25 2004-08-31 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd. Portable interactive printer
US6549935B1 (en) * 1999-05-25 2003-04-15 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of distributing documents having common components to a plurality of destinations
CA2310181C (en) 1999-05-31 2004-06-22 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Ink tank, ink-jet cartridge, ink-supplying apparatus, ink-jet printing apparatus and method for supplying ink
US6611707B1 (en) 1999-06-04 2003-08-26 Georgia Tech Research Corporation Microneedle drug delivery device
US6210522B1 (en) * 1999-06-15 2001-04-03 Lexmark International, Inc. Adhesive bonding laminates
DE10028318B4 (en) * 1999-06-28 2017-02-16 Heidelberger Druckmaschinen Ag Method and apparatus for cleaning a printhead of an inkjet printer
WO2001002172A1 (en) 1999-06-30 2001-01-11 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead support structure and assembly
JP2001010081A (en) 1999-06-30 2001-01-16 Canon Inc Ink jet cartridge, ink jet device and manufacture of ink jet cartridge
JP2001198684A (en) * 1999-06-30 2001-07-24 Canon Inc Method of laser machining, method of manufacturing ink jet recording head by using the method of laser machining, and ink jet recording head manufactured by the manufacturing method
EP1114726A4 (en) * 1999-07-14 2003-01-02 Seiko Epson Corp Ink cartridge, ink jet printer, method of replacing ink cartridge
GB9916532D0 (en) 1999-07-14 1999-09-15 Videojet Systems Int A droplet generator for a continuous stream ink jet print head
JP2001058418A (en) * 1999-08-20 2001-03-06 Canon Inc Carriage, and ink-jet recording apparatus
JP2001063058A (en) 1999-08-24 2001-03-13 Canon Inc Recording system, recorder, information processor and control method thereof, computer readable memory
JP2001063901A (en) * 1999-08-24 2001-03-13 Canon Inc Image reading device and image processing device
US6982969B1 (en) * 1999-09-28 2006-01-03 Tachyon, Inc. Method and system for frequency spectrum resource allocation
JP2001072309A (en) * 1999-09-01 2001-03-21 Fujitsu Ltd Image forming device and medium discharge device
JP2001071523A (en) 1999-09-03 2001-03-21 Canon Inc Printing apparatus
KR100358341B1 (en) 1999-09-13 2002-10-25 삼성전자 주식회사 Apparatus for decision of cartridge type in the printer for micro injecting device
US6145973A (en) 1999-09-14 2000-11-14 Wisertek International Corp. Ink-jet cartridge
US6658219B1 (en) 1999-09-30 2003-12-02 Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. Method, device, system and recording medium for detecting improper cartridge, and cartridge
US6229114B1 (en) * 1999-09-30 2001-05-08 Xerox Corporation Precision laser cutting of adhesive members
JP2001096847A (en) * 1999-10-01 2001-04-10 Canon Inc Printing apparatus
CN1824510A (en) * 1999-10-04 2006-08-30 精工爱普生株式会社 Ink jet recording apparatus, semiconductor device, and recording head apparatus
JP4084511B2 (en) * 1999-10-05 2008-04-30 株式会社沖データ Printer
US6155678A (en) 1999-10-06 2000-12-05 Lexmark International, Inc. Replaceable ink cartridge for ink jet pen
US6577713B1 (en) * 1999-10-08 2003-06-10 Iquest Technologies, Inc. Method of creating a telephone data capturing system
US6263658B1 (en) * 1999-10-12 2001-07-24 D&W Jewelry, Inc. Oval faceted jewelry rope chain
US6474888B1 (en) 1999-10-25 2002-11-05 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd. Universal pen with code sensor
US6190002B1 (en) * 1999-10-27 2001-02-20 Lexmark International, Inc. Ink jet pen
US6460985B1 (en) * 1999-10-29 2002-10-08 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink reservoir for an inkjet printer
US6494630B2 (en) 1999-10-31 2002-12-17 Hewlett-Packard Company Datum structure for compact print cartridge
US6213596B1 (en) * 1999-11-30 2001-04-10 Lexmark International, Inc. Method and apparatus for reducing entrained air in ink for ink jet cartridges used in ink jet printers
EP1157844B1 (en) 1999-12-01 2008-07-09 Sony Corporation Method of driving print head in inkjet printer, and inkjet printer
US6796645B2 (en) 1999-12-06 2004-09-28 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Surface reformed fiber body, liquid container using fiber absorber, and method of producing fiber absorber for use in liquid ejection
AUPQ455999A0 (en) 1999-12-09 2000-01-06 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Memjet four color modular print head packaging
JP2001239662A (en) * 1999-12-20 2001-09-04 Canon Inc Image recorder
US6644801B2 (en) 1999-12-27 2003-11-11 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Ink jet recording apparatus
JP2001187459A (en) 1999-12-28 2001-07-10 Fuji Xerox Co Ltd Ink jet recorder
WO2001053102A1 (en) * 2000-01-20 2001-07-26 Sony Corporation Recording head driving method, recording head, ink-jet printer
DE60141929D1 (en) 2000-01-21 2010-06-02 Seiko Epson Corp Ink cartridge and ink jet printing apparatus having such an ink cartridge
US6488369B1 (en) * 2000-01-31 2002-12-03 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink container configured to establish reliable electrical and fluidic connections to a receiving station
US6827432B2 (en) 2000-01-31 2004-12-07 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Replaceable ink container for an inkjet printing system
US6612032B1 (en) * 2000-01-31 2003-09-02 Lexmark International, Inc. Manufacturing method for ink jet pen
JP2001212984A (en) * 2000-02-03 2001-08-07 Canon Inc Ink jet recorder
JP4124939B2 (en) 2000-02-03 2008-07-23 キヤノン株式会社 Ink-recording medium integrated pack
US6270117B1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2001-08-07 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Deceleration sensor for vehicle air bag
KR100388332B1 (en) * 2000-02-16 2003-06-25 세이코 엡슨 가부시키가이샤 Ink cartridge for ink jet recording device, connection unit and ink jet recording device
US6213597B1 (en) * 2000-02-29 2001-04-10 Win-Yin Liu Apparatus for ink cartridge of a jet printer
US6634746B2 (en) * 2000-03-02 2003-10-21 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Recording apparatus
AUPQ595700A0 (en) 2000-03-02 2000-03-23 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Alignment module for printheads
AUPQ595900A0 (en) * 2000-03-02 2000-03-23 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Modular printhead
JP4593813B2 (en) * 2000-03-16 2010-12-08 キヤノン株式会社 Optional apparatus for image forming apparatus, image forming apparatus, and image forming system
US6250751B1 (en) 2000-03-28 2001-06-26 Lexmark International, Inc. Ink jet printer cartridge manufacturing method and apparatus
WO2001074593A1 (en) * 2000-03-31 2001-10-11 Fujitsu Limited Ink jet head
US7014286B2 (en) * 2000-04-11 2006-03-21 Seiko Epson Corporation Liquid jetting apparatus
US6199977B1 (en) * 2000-04-13 2001-03-13 Lexmark International, Inc. Cartridge body for ink jet printer
US6267468B1 (en) * 2000-04-13 2001-07-31 Hewlett-Packard Company Printhead substrate having a mixture of single and double sided elongate ink feed channels
US6238039B1 (en) * 2000-04-17 2001-05-29 Hewlett-Packard Company Carriage for ink-jet hard copy apparatus
CA2407241C (en) 2000-05-04 2009-01-20 Trodat Gmbh Self-inking stamp
JP2001322293A (en) 2000-05-12 2001-11-20 Sony Corp Ink jet printer and its head cartridge
US6318920B1 (en) * 2000-05-23 2001-11-20 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Rotating platen member
US6604810B1 (en) 2000-05-23 2003-08-12 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead capping arrangement
US6588886B2 (en) 2000-05-23 2003-07-08 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Nozzle guard for an ink jet printhead
US6409323B1 (en) 2000-05-23 2002-06-25 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Laminated ink distribution assembly for a printer
US6281912B1 (en) * 2000-05-23 2001-08-28 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Air supply arrangement for a printer
US6988840B2 (en) 2000-05-23 2006-01-24 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead chassis assembly
US6488422B1 (en) * 2000-05-23 2002-12-03 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Paper thickness sensor in a printer
US6652078B2 (en) 2000-05-23 2003-11-25 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Ink supply arrangement for a printer
IL153036A0 (en) 2000-05-24 2003-06-24 Silverbrook Res Pty Ltd Laminated ink distribution assembly for a printer
CN1195634C (en) 2000-05-24 2005-04-06 西尔弗布鲁克研究有限公司 Rotating platen member
US6969144B2 (en) 2002-11-23 2005-11-29 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead capping mechanism with rotary platen assembly
US6851797B2 (en) 2000-05-29 2005-02-08 Seiko Epson Corporation Method of filling recording material in recording material container and filling apparatus
US6692107B2 (en) * 2000-06-01 2004-02-17 Lexmark International, Inc. Ink cartridge body and carrier assembly
US6491371B1 (en) * 2000-06-16 2002-12-10 Xerox Corporation Ink blotter for an ink jet printer maintenance station providing increased ink carrying capacity
US6390615B1 (en) * 2000-06-19 2002-05-21 Xerox Corporation Ink tank with securing means and seal
TW492114B (en) * 2000-06-19 2002-06-21 Advantest Corp Method and apparatus for edge connection between elements of an integrated circuit
US6394573B1 (en) * 2000-06-28 2002-05-28 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing with a multi-segment printhead
US6676250B1 (en) 2000-06-30 2004-01-13 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Ink supply assembly for a print engine
ATE361835T1 (en) 2000-06-30 2007-06-15 Silverbrook Res Pty Ltd COLOR APPARATUS FOR A PRINTING PRESS
US6347864B1 (en) * 2000-06-30 2002-02-19 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Print engine including an air pump
JP4613399B2 (en) 2000-07-14 2011-01-19 ソニー株式会社 Cartridge management apparatus, cartridge management method, and computer-readable program storage medium storing a program having a cartridge management function
US20030127183A1 (en) * 2000-07-17 2003-07-10 Saldanha Singh Jeanne Marie Method and apparatus for adhesively securing ink jet pen components using thin film adhesives
JP2002036586A (en) * 2000-07-25 2002-02-05 Sony Corp Printer and cartridge
JP2002103597A (en) * 2000-07-25 2002-04-09 Sony Corp Printer and printer head
EP1179954A3 (en) * 2000-07-31 2002-04-10 Texas Instruments Incorporated Digital subscriber line modem with automated line connection
GB2354202B (en) * 2000-08-07 2002-09-18 Dynamic Cassette Int A printer cartridge kit and method
JP2002060117A (en) 2000-08-21 2002-02-26 Fuji Photo Film Co Ltd Wall-mounted printer
JP2002059558A (en) * 2000-08-22 2002-02-26 Sony Corp Head cartridge and ink jet printer
US6830646B2 (en) * 2000-08-30 2004-12-14 Lexmark International, Inc. Radiation curable resin layer
JP2002067343A (en) * 2000-08-30 2002-03-05 Casio Comput Co Ltd Long recording head
US6581799B1 (en) * 2000-09-08 2003-06-24 Eveready Battery Company, Inc. Product dispenser
JP2002087602A (en) * 2000-09-13 2002-03-27 Sharp Corp Paper feeding device
JP3593308B2 (en) 2000-09-13 2004-11-24 シャープ株式会社 Image recording device
US6386535B1 (en) 2000-09-15 2002-05-14 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Loading mechanism for a modular commercial printer
US6612240B1 (en) 2000-09-15 2003-09-02 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Drying of an image on print media in a modular commercial printer
US6640843B2 (en) * 2000-09-29 2003-11-04 Lee Yong-Soo Ink refilling apparatus and method for cartridge of ink jet printer
JP4536897B2 (en) * 2000-10-02 2010-09-01 キヤノン株式会社 Image forming apparatus
JP2002103644A (en) 2000-10-02 2002-04-09 Ricoh Co Ltd Ink jet recorder
JP2002103638A (en) 2000-10-02 2002-04-09 Sharp Corp Line head cleaning device of ink jet printer
JP2002103717A (en) * 2000-10-05 2002-04-09 Sharp Corp Imaging apparatus
US6846070B2 (en) 2000-10-06 2005-01-25 Nu-Kote International, Inc. Pressurized ink filling method for dual compartment ink-jet cartridge used in ink-jet printer
EP1201438A3 (en) * 2000-10-11 2002-06-26 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink cartridge and inkjet printer
US6485435B1 (en) * 2000-10-18 2002-11-26 The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Interior Fistula device and method for in-vivo evaluation of fish egg development
ATE522360T1 (en) 2000-10-20 2011-09-15 Seiko Epson Corp INK CARTRIDGE FOR INK JET RECORDING APPARATUS
US6302022B1 (en) 2000-10-20 2001-10-16 Shiny Shih Ink refillable stamp
US7535582B1 (en) 2000-10-20 2009-05-19 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Digital photographic duplication system with image quality restoration
US6457810B1 (en) 2000-10-20 2002-10-01 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd. Method of assembly of six color inkjet modular printhead
US6859225B1 (en) 2000-10-20 2005-02-22 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method and apparatus for fault tolerant data storage on photographs
US6485135B1 (en) 2000-10-20 2002-11-26 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Ink feed for six color inkjet modular printhead
JP2002127426A (en) 2000-10-20 2002-05-08 Sony Corp Printer
JP3843730B2 (en) * 2000-11-13 2006-11-08 ブラザー工業株式会社 Image forming apparatus and recording medium supply apparatus
US6550882B2 (en) 2000-11-17 2003-04-22 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Ink jet printing apparatus
TW562750B (en) 2000-12-05 2003-11-21 Benq Corp Pressure-compensation device
TW528684B (en) 2000-12-08 2003-04-21 Benq Corp Pressure regulating device of ink cartridge for an ink-jet printer
US20020075350A1 (en) * 2000-12-15 2002-06-20 Xerox Corporation Ink jet printer having a cleaning blade cleaner assembly
AUPR224200A0 (en) * 2000-12-21 2001-01-25 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. An apparatus (ap16)
AUPR224300A0 (en) * 2000-12-21 2001-01-25 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. An apparatus (mj72)
US6644796B2 (en) * 2000-12-22 2003-11-11 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Fluid interconnect in a replaceable ink reservoir for pigmented ink
JP2002254673A (en) * 2000-12-25 2002-09-11 Seiko Epson Corp Ink cartridge for ink jet recorder
JP2002192741A (en) 2000-12-26 2002-07-10 Fuji Xerox Co Ltd Ink cartridge, and method for filling ink cartridge with ink
TW533135B (en) 2001-01-08 2003-05-21 Int United Technology Co Ltd Ink container having pressure regulation device
US6717040B1 (en) * 2001-01-12 2004-04-06 Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. Inbred maize line PH5W4
US6839155B2 (en) * 2001-01-16 2005-01-04 Xerox Corporation Locating edges of a scanned document
AUPR256401A0 (en) 2001-01-17 2001-02-08 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. An apparatus (AP17)
JP2002210940A (en) 2001-01-19 2002-07-31 Canon Inc Method of ink jet recording
US6488368B2 (en) * 2001-01-26 2002-12-03 Hewlett-Packard Company Manifold for providing fluid connections between carriage-mounted ink containers and printheads
US6502926B2 (en) * 2001-01-30 2003-01-07 Lexmark International, Inc. Ink jet semiconductor chip structure
US6523935B2 (en) 2001-01-30 2003-02-25 Hewlett-Packard Company Narrow ink jet printhead
CA2371040A1 (en) * 2001-02-09 2002-08-09 Nobuyuki Hatasa Liquid container and recording apparatus
JP4095308B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2008-06-04 キヤノン株式会社 Cartridge, carriage, ink jet recording apparatus and recording head
US6695429B2 (en) 2001-02-12 2004-02-24 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Fluid assisted printhead blotter for an inkjet printer service station
JP3386052B2 (en) * 2001-02-13 2003-03-10 トヨタ自動車株式会社 Pump device
US6557976B2 (en) * 2001-02-14 2003-05-06 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Electrical circuit for wide-array inkjet printhead assembly
US6390613B1 (en) 2001-02-16 2002-05-21 Win-Yin Liu Ink-refilling device for ink cartridge of a jet printer
JP4878081B2 (en) * 2001-02-20 2012-02-15 キヤノン株式会社 Recording device
US6491376B2 (en) * 2001-02-22 2002-12-10 Eastman Kodak Company Continuous ink jet printhead with thin membrane nozzle plate
US6974205B2 (en) * 2001-02-27 2005-12-13 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printhead employing both slotted and edgefeed fluid delivery to firing resistors
US6554398B2 (en) 2001-03-08 2003-04-29 Agfa-Gevaert Ink-jet printer equipped for aligning the printheads
US6572214B2 (en) 2001-03-09 2003-06-03 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Inkjet printing systems using filter fluid interconnects for pigmented inks
JP2002273878A (en) 2001-03-19 2002-09-25 Ricoh Co Ltd Line type ink jet head and ink jet recorder
US6478415B2 (en) * 2001-03-21 2002-11-12 Hewlett-Packard Company Rejuvenation station and printer cartridge therefore
US6789876B2 (en) * 2001-03-21 2004-09-14 Aaron G. Barclay Co-operating mechanical subassemblies for a scanning carriage, digital wide-format color inkjet print engine
AUPR399601A0 (en) * 2001-03-27 2001-04-26 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. An apparatus and method(ART108)
AUPR399101A0 (en) 2001-03-27 2001-04-26 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. An apparatus and method(ART105)
AUPR399301A0 (en) * 2001-03-27 2001-04-26 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. An apparatus and method(ART106)
US6619776B2 (en) * 2001-03-30 2003-09-16 Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Image forming device capable of detecting existence of ink and ink cartridge with high accuracy
US6666542B2 (en) * 2001-03-30 2003-12-23 Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Ink cartridge for printer or the like and ink cartridge positioning and locking mechanism
CA2379725C (en) 2001-04-03 2007-06-12 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink cartridge
JP2002295419A (en) * 2001-04-03 2002-10-09 Tateyama Alum Ind Co Ltd Coupling tool and coupling structure for column member
US6908179B2 (en) 2001-04-04 2005-06-21 Eastman Kodak Company Ink level and negative pressure control in an ink jet printer
JP2002302325A (en) 2001-04-05 2002-10-18 Canon Inc Wall mounted type printing device
US6364473B1 (en) 2001-04-06 2002-04-02 Win-Yin Liu Refilling needle for refilling an ink cartridge
US6916088B2 (en) * 2001-04-20 2005-07-12 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Ink container configured to establish reliable fluidic connection to a receiving station
US6739696B2 (en) * 2001-04-20 2004-05-25 Seiko Epson Corporation Apparatus and method for cleaning ink jet printer
KR100389001B1 (en) 2001-05-03 2003-06-25 삼성전자주식회사 ink-cartridge for ink-jet printer
JP2003136728A (en) 2001-11-05 2003-05-14 Sony Corp Ink jet printing head, ink jet printer with the same, and method for manufacturing ink jet printing head
US20020171718A1 (en) 2001-05-18 2002-11-21 Park Sung Joon Liquid refiller
JP2002356026A (en) 2001-05-31 2002-12-10 Sharp Corp Ink jet printer
US6386691B1 (en) 2001-06-05 2002-05-14 Win-Yin Liu Ink cartridge of a printer facilitating second refilling
JP2003072107A (en) 2001-06-11 2003-03-12 Canon Inc Portable electronic device, portable printer, portable electronic equipment, charging device and portable electronic equipment system
JP4666818B2 (en) 2001-06-15 2011-04-06 キヤノン株式会社 RECORDING HEAD, RECORDING HEAD CARTRIDGE, AND RECORDING DEVICE THEREOF
JP2002370375A (en) * 2001-06-18 2002-12-24 Canon Inc Ink-jet printing unit, ink tank and ink supplying method
JP3581675B2 (en) * 2001-06-18 2004-10-27 キヤノン株式会社 Ink storage container and inkjet printing device
US6948803B2 (en) * 2001-06-18 2005-09-27 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Ink container, inkjet printing apparatus and ink supplying method
KR100926001B1 (en) * 2001-06-20 2009-11-09 소니 가부시끼 가이샤 Liquid discharging device and liquid discharging method
JP2003001902A (en) 2001-06-26 2003-01-08 Sharp Corp Wall-hanging printer
TW524754B (en) 2001-07-24 2003-03-21 Nano Dynamics Inc Ink supplying cassette having under pressure regulation mechanism
US6729714B2 (en) 2001-07-31 2004-05-04 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Separable key for establishing detachable printer component compatibility with a printer
US6481837B1 (en) * 2001-08-01 2002-11-19 Benjamin Alan Askren Ink delivery system
JP3977097B2 (en) 2001-08-01 2007-09-19 キヤノン株式会社 Liquid supply apparatus and liquid discharge recording apparatus
US6959984B2 (en) 2001-08-14 2005-11-01 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Liquid container and inkjet cartridge
US6505926B1 (en) * 2001-08-16 2003-01-14 Eastman Kodak Company Ink cartridge with memory chip and method of assembling
US6481838B1 (en) * 2001-09-05 2002-11-19 Hewlett-Packard Company Ink tube connection to printhead carriage cover
JP4741761B2 (en) 2001-09-14 2011-08-10 キヤノン株式会社 Ink jet recording head, ink jet recording apparatus using the ink jet recording head, and method of manufacturing ink jet recording head
JP2003089215A (en) * 2001-09-17 2003-03-25 S T Sangyo Kk Method and device for replenishing ink cartridge with ink for ink jet printer
US6481829B1 (en) 2001-09-18 2002-11-19 Lexmark International, Inc. Manually actuated carrier latch mechanism
US6619784B2 (en) 2001-09-28 2003-09-16 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. System and method for reducing service station fluid waste and to improve print throughout with spit strips
JP4054555B2 (en) * 2001-10-01 2008-02-27 キヤノン株式会社 Recording apparatus, control method therefor, and recording medium
US6554397B1 (en) * 2001-10-02 2003-04-29 Hewlett-Packard Company Pen positioning in page wide array printers
EP1300247B1 (en) 2001-10-05 2006-05-17 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Liquid container, liquid supplying apparatus, and recording apparatus
EP1304227B1 (en) * 2001-10-17 2004-06-02 Seiko Epson Corporation Fixed material transportation apparatus and liquid fixing apparatus using the transportation apparatus
US6749292B2 (en) 2001-10-18 2004-06-15 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Replaceable ink container for an inkjet printing system
TW543317B (en) * 2001-10-19 2003-07-21 Primax Electronics Ltd Image scanning device with retractable data storage module reading function
US20030076391A1 (en) 2001-10-24 2003-04-24 Wilson John F. Supply adaptor for an on-axis printer
JP4167436B2 (en) * 2002-03-05 2008-10-15 松下電器産業株式会社 Recording device
US6585348B2 (en) * 2001-10-29 2003-07-01 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Inkjet printer cartridge adapted for enhanced cleaning thereof and method of assembling the printer cartridge
US6637858B2 (en) * 2001-10-30 2003-10-28 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printing mechanism hinged printbar assembly
US6592200B2 (en) * 2001-10-30 2003-07-15 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Integrated print module and servicing assembly
US6682165B2 (en) * 2001-10-30 2004-01-27 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Wiping fluid spray system for inkjet printhead
US6595619B2 (en) * 2001-10-30 2003-07-22 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printing mechanism service station for a printbar assembly
US6648465B2 (en) * 2001-10-31 2003-11-18 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Heated media deflector
FR2831855B1 (en) 2001-11-06 2004-04-02 Gemplus Card Int ARRANGEMENT FOR SUPPLYING A FLUID TO A MACHINE COMPRISING FALLING MEANS
JP3815308B2 (en) * 2001-11-26 2006-08-30 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Ink jet recording apparatus and ink cartridge
JP2003163774A (en) 2001-11-27 2003-06-06 Canon Inc Image processor
KR100433529B1 (en) * 2001-12-04 2004-05-31 삼성전자주식회사 Ink cartridge with pressure-controlling module
JP2003191488A (en) * 2001-12-27 2003-07-08 Canon Inc Liquid storage container, ink jet cartridge and ink jet recorder
JP2003196774A (en) 2001-12-28 2003-07-11 Ricoh Elemex Corp Metering equipment, device management system using the metering equipment, program for realizing function of the system and recording medium
JP2003206064A (en) 2002-01-11 2003-07-22 Seiko Epson Corp Printer
US7149753B2 (en) 2002-01-11 2006-12-12 Sap Aktiengesellschaft Providing selective access to tracking information
JP3705208B2 (en) * 2002-01-16 2005-10-12 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Ink jet recording apparatus control method and ink jet recording apparatus
US6962408B2 (en) * 2002-01-30 2005-11-08 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printing-fluid container
US7452061B2 (en) 2002-01-30 2008-11-18 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Method and device for filling a printing-fluid container
US6758558B2 (en) 2002-02-07 2004-07-06 Nanodynamics Inc. Ink container having a pressure stabilizer module
AUPS048102A0 (en) * 2002-02-13 2002-03-07 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. Methods and systems (ap77)
AUPS049302A0 (en) 2002-02-13 2002-03-07 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. Methods and systems (ap53)
AUPS048602A0 (en) 2002-02-13 2002-03-07 Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. Methods and systems (ap46)
US6679594B2 (en) 2002-02-16 2004-01-20 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, Lp. Imaging media cartridge having a reserve chamber
JP4147969B2 (en) 2002-02-20 2008-09-10 ブラザー工業株式会社 Ink jet head and ink jet printer having the same
JP3658373B2 (en) 2002-02-22 2005-06-08 キヤノン株式会社 Liquid storage container, ink jet cartridge, and ink jet recording apparatus
US8328350B2 (en) * 2002-02-28 2012-12-11 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Vertical mount printing device
US6622325B1 (en) * 2002-03-01 2003-09-23 Jesse Garza Facial fatigue reducing pillow construction
JP3889979B2 (en) * 2002-03-06 2007-03-07 株式会社東海理化電機製作所 Connector and connector fixing structure
JP2003334935A (en) * 2002-03-15 2003-11-25 Sharp Corp Recorder
JP3739716B2 (en) 2002-03-22 2006-01-25 シャープ株式会社 Print head maintenance mechanism
US6655793B2 (en) * 2002-03-26 2003-12-02 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Print cartridge supporting apparatus
EP1681846B1 (en) * 2002-03-28 2008-07-30 Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Printing device
US6857731B2 (en) * 2002-04-10 2005-02-22 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, Lp. Ink level indicator and ink cartridge having the same
US7083245B2 (en) * 2002-04-15 2006-08-01 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Recording apparatus
JP2003312023A (en) * 2002-04-19 2003-11-06 Brother Ind Ltd Cleaning unit for ink jet printing head
US6676252B2 (en) * 2002-04-24 2004-01-13 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printer ink cartridge and method of assembling same
US6637860B1 (en) 2002-05-13 2003-10-28 Creo Srl High throughput inkjet printer with provision for spot color printing
ITTO20020428A1 (en) * 2002-05-20 2003-11-20 Tecnost Sistemi S P A INK JET PRINTER WITH HIGH CAPACITY TANK AND RELATED INK SUPPLY SYSTEM.
JP2003341023A (en) * 2002-05-24 2003-12-03 Seiko Epson Corp Printer, printing method, computer program, and computer system
JP3901019B2 (en) * 2002-06-04 2007-04-04 ブラザー工業株式会社 ink cartridge
US6991331B2 (en) * 2002-06-25 2006-01-31 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Recording apparatus
JP2004034336A (en) * 2002-06-28 2004-02-05 Fuji Xerox Co Ltd Ink supply unit, subink tank and inkjet recorder
CN1309574C (en) * 2002-07-09 2007-04-11 索尼株式会社 Image forming device and control method therefor
JP4019829B2 (en) 2002-07-10 2007-12-12 ソニー株式会社 Image forming apparatus and control method thereof
US7702419B2 (en) * 2002-07-16 2010-04-20 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. System and method for filling a reservoir
US6824129B2 (en) * 2002-08-19 2004-11-30 Sides, Ii William R. Printer system for vertical or horizontal mounting
JP4284942B2 (en) 2002-08-20 2009-06-24 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Printing apparatus, computer program, computer system, and correction pattern manufacturing method
US6705714B1 (en) 2002-08-21 2004-03-16 Eastman Kodak Company Ink cartridge having ink supply bag filled to less than capacity and folded in cartridge housing
JP2005536273A (en) 2002-08-26 2005-12-02 ペンジェット・コーポレーション Device for needle-free injection with deaerated fluid
US6729360B2 (en) 2002-09-04 2004-05-04 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Ink cartridge refilling station
US6715857B2 (en) * 2002-09-05 2004-04-06 Lexmark International, Inc. Printhead carrier housing and flexible printed circuit attached to same
US6799610B2 (en) * 2002-09-20 2004-10-05 Kenneth Yuen Method and apparatus for refilling an ink cartridge
JP4338170B2 (en) * 2002-09-30 2009-10-07 キヤノン株式会社 Image forming apparatus
JP4193458B2 (en) 2002-10-03 2008-12-10 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Adjusting the recording position misalignment during bidirectional printing
US6688734B1 (en) 2002-10-04 2004-02-10 Win-Yin Liu Pull handle of an ink refill cylinder
US6749294B2 (en) 2002-10-10 2004-06-15 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Keying methods and apparatus for inkjet print cartridges and inkjet printers
JP2004142315A (en) 2002-10-25 2004-05-20 Canon Inc Inkjet recording device
US6869165B2 (en) 2002-10-30 2005-03-22 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Fluid interconnect for printhead assembly
US6764171B2 (en) * 2002-11-13 2004-07-20 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Pressure regulator, cartridge using the same and method for indicating remaining cartridge content
JP4018513B2 (en) 2002-11-20 2007-12-05 キヤノン株式会社 Liquid storage device
US6669333B1 (en) 2002-11-23 2003-12-30 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Stacked heater elements in a thermal ink jet printhead
US6755509B2 (en) * 2002-11-23 2004-06-29 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Thermal ink jet printhead with suspended beam heater
US6719406B1 (en) * 2002-11-23 2004-04-13 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Ink jet printhead with conformally coated heater
JP3624950B2 (en) * 2002-11-26 2005-03-02 セイコーエプソン株式会社 ink cartridge
JP3919734B2 (en) * 2002-12-06 2007-05-30 株式会社リコー Ink cartridge, casing thereof, and image forming apparatus
US7052121B2 (en) * 2002-12-10 2006-05-30 Seiko Epson Corporation Ink cartridge and ink jet printer
US7044574B2 (en) 2002-12-30 2006-05-16 Lexmark International, Inc. Method and apparatus for generating and assigning a cartridge identification number to an imaging cartridge
US7382499B2 (en) 2003-01-08 2008-06-03 Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Media access lamp
JP2004216680A (en) * 2003-01-14 2004-08-05 Konica Minolta Holdings Inc Ink jet image forming apparatus
JP4274412B2 (en) * 2003-01-21 2009-06-10 理想科学工業株式会社 Ink remaining amount calculation method and apparatus, and ink container
US6966639B2 (en) * 2003-01-28 2005-11-22 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Ink cartridge and air management system for an ink cartridge
US6872874B1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2005-03-29 Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. Inbred maize line PH890
KR100544459B1 (en) * 2003-02-21 2006-01-24 삼성전자주식회사 automatic maintenance executing apparatus and method of an office machine
US6749298B1 (en) 2003-02-27 2004-06-15 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Power transmission arrangement
JP3770252B2 (en) * 2003-02-27 2006-04-26 ソニー株式会社 Liquid ejection apparatus and liquid ejection method
US6851787B2 (en) * 2003-03-06 2005-02-08 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Printer servicing system and method
JP2004276374A (en) * 2003-03-14 2004-10-07 Fuji Xerox Co Ltd Recorder
JP4218385B2 (en) * 2003-03-24 2009-02-04 富士ゼロックス株式会社 Ink jet recording head and ink jet recording apparatus
JP2004284253A (en) * 2003-03-24 2004-10-14 Fuji Xerox Co Ltd Inkjet recording head and inkjet recording device
JP2004314602A (en) 2003-04-04 2004-11-11 Canon Inc Liquid receptacle and manufacturing method thereof
US6869166B2 (en) 2003-04-09 2005-03-22 Joaquim Brugue Multi-die fluid ejection apparatus and method
US6871028B2 (en) 2003-04-24 2005-03-22 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Image forming devices, image forming device consumable assemblies and image forming device communication methods
US20040223859A1 (en) 2003-05-09 2004-11-11 Ingersoll-Rand Company Air compressor assembly
US6971740B2 (en) * 2003-05-13 2005-12-06 Kenneth Yuen Ink cartridge refill system and method of use
US6736488B1 (en) 2003-05-23 2004-05-18 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Electrical interconnect for printhead assembly
US7147314B2 (en) * 2003-06-18 2006-12-12 Lexmark International, Inc. Single piece filtration for an ink jet print head
JP2005028779A (en) * 2003-07-07 2005-02-03 Canon Inc Ink tank and ink tank holder
US6981783B2 (en) * 2003-07-10 2006-01-03 Everspring Industry Co., Ltd. Burglar alarm light
USD528011S1 (en) 2003-07-18 2006-09-12 Fuji Seal International, Inc. Flexible pouch
US7029091B2 (en) 2003-08-05 2006-04-18 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Inkjet consumable cartridge with integrated nozzle cap
CA105801S (en) 2003-08-08 2005-05-26 Seiko Epson Corp Ink pack
US6935731B2 (en) 2003-09-10 2005-08-30 Eastman Kodak Company Ink jet print system including print cartridge
US6913342B2 (en) 2003-09-10 2005-07-05 Eastman Kodak Company Apparatus for securing print cartridge in ink jet printer
JP2005099289A (en) * 2003-09-24 2005-04-14 Fuji Xerox Co Ltd Printer device
JP4378221B2 (en) * 2003-10-08 2009-12-02 キヤノン株式会社 Process cartridge and electrophotographic image forming apparatus
FR2860735B1 (en) * 2003-10-10 2006-12-22 Degremont PRESSURIZED WATER RELIEF NOZZLE FOR GENERATING MICROBULLS IN A FLOATING SYSTEM
US7025440B2 (en) 2003-10-15 2006-04-11 Lexmark International, Inc. Low profile ink jet cartridge assembly
US7306320B2 (en) 2003-11-12 2007-12-11 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd High speed digital printer unit
US7063402B2 (en) * 2003-11-24 2006-06-20 Eastman Kodak Company Flexible lamination for use with primary ink jet components
US7172272B2 (en) * 2003-11-26 2007-02-06 Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd. Systems and methods for vent path leakage prevention
US7029083B2 (en) * 2003-11-26 2006-04-18 Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd. Systems and methods for controllably refilling a fluid quantity sensing fluid ejection head
US7107836B2 (en) * 2003-12-19 2006-09-19 Neopost Industrie Sa Radio frequency tagging for indicia printing and product information
US7210771B2 (en) 2004-01-08 2007-05-01 Eastman Kodak Company Ink delivery system with print cartridge, container and reservoir apparatus and method
US7165833B2 (en) * 2004-01-08 2007-01-23 Eastman Kodak Company Ink container installation and alignment feature
US7198352B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2007-04-03 Kia Silverbrook Inkjet printer cradle with cartridge stabilizing mechanism
US7121655B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2006-10-17 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge refill dispenser
US7364264B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-04-29 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cradle with single drive motor performing multiple functions
US7303251B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2007-12-04 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cradle with integrated cartridge engaging mechanism
US7731327B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2010-06-08 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Desktop printer with cartridge incorporating printhead integrated circuit
US7287846B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2007-10-30 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with combined blotter
US7367647B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-05-06 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Pagewidth inkjet printer cartridge with ink delivery member
US7201470B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2007-04-10 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cradle with compressed air delivery system
US7232208B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2007-06-19 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge refill dispenser with plunge action
US7165834B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2007-01-23 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead module with fixedly attached printhead tiles
US7364263B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-04-29 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Removable inkjet printer cartridge
US7441865B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-10-28 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead chip having longitudinal ink supply channels
US7097291B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2006-08-29 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with ink refill port having multiple ink couplings
US7441880B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-10-28 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Common inkjet printer cradle for pagewidth printhead printer cartridge
US7258432B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2007-08-21 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with controlled refill
US7448734B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2008-11-11 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with pagewidth printhead
US7118192B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2006-10-10 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead assembly with support for print engine controller
US7303255B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2007-12-04 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with a compressed air port
US7645025B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2010-01-12 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with two printhead integrated circuits
US7156511B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2007-01-02 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with integral maintenance station
US7469989B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2008-12-30 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printhead chip having longitudinal ink supply channels interrupted by transverse bridges
US7328985B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-02-12 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge refill dispenser with security mechanism
US7374355B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2008-05-20 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cradle for receiving a pagewidth printhead cartridge
US7083273B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2006-08-01 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Inkjet printer cartridge with uniform compressed air distribution
US7111930B2 (en) * 2004-03-25 2006-09-26 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Fluid supply having a fluid absorbing material
US7168798B2 (en) * 2004-04-26 2007-01-30 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Hybrid ink delivery system
US7125184B2 (en) 2004-06-03 2006-10-24 Lite-On Technology Corp. Printer with replaceable modules
US20060012634A1 (en) * 2004-07-15 2006-01-19 Squie Roger W Print cartridge adapter
US7284844B2 (en) * 2004-07-30 2007-10-23 Hewlett-Packard Development Comapny, L.P. Air-driven delivery assembly
AU2005324288B2 (en) * 2005-01-10 2011-02-17 Memjet Technology Limited Inkjet printhead production method
US7341330B2 (en) 2005-02-28 2008-03-11 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Substrates adapted for adhesive bonding
JP4682862B2 (en) * 2005-03-31 2011-05-11 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Liquid container and liquid filling method thereof
ES2387392T3 (en) * 2005-04-15 2012-09-21 Eden Spine Europe Sa Intervertebral disc prosthesis
KR100657335B1 (en) 2005-09-15 2006-12-14 삼성전자주식회사 Hybrid ink jet image forming apparatus
US7415050B2 (en) * 2006-09-18 2008-08-19 Biolase Technology, Inc. Electromagnetic energy distributions for electromagnetically induced mechanical cutting
US7976144B2 (en) * 2006-11-21 2011-07-12 Xerox Corporation System and method for delivering solid ink sticks to a melting device through a non-linear guide
US7547831B1 (en) * 2006-12-15 2009-06-16 Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. Inbred maize line PHGJB
US7959266B2 (en) * 2007-03-28 2011-06-14 Xerox Corporation Self aligned port hole opening process for ink jet print heads
US7997069B2 (en) * 2007-06-26 2011-08-16 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Ash reduction system using electrically heated particulate matter filter
US7802478B2 (en) * 2007-06-27 2010-09-28 Corning Incorporated Methods and apparatus for measuring elastic modulus of non-solid ceramic materials by resonance
JP2009158151A (en) * 2007-12-25 2009-07-16 Sumitomo Wiring Syst Ltd Connector
US8189738B2 (en) * 2008-06-02 2012-05-29 Elekta Ltd. Methods and systems for guiding clinical radiotherapy setups
EP2181963B1 (en) * 2008-10-06 2018-12-12 Amminex Emissions Technology A/S Release of stored ammonia at start-up
CN102318278A (en) 2009-02-10 2012-01-11 三菱电机株式会社 Parent station device and grant allocation method

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US7658466B2 (en) 2010-02-09
US20080218565A1 (en) 2008-09-11
US8025381B2 (en) 2011-09-27
US20050157143A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20080185774A1 (en) 2008-08-07
EP1706277A1 (en) 2006-10-04
US7384135B2 (en) 2008-06-10
US7448734B2 (en) 2008-11-11
US20100165037A1 (en) 2010-07-01
US7669961B2 (en) 2010-03-02
US20090201348A1 (en) 2009-08-13
US20080212119A1 (en) 2008-09-04
JP2009262566A (en) 2009-11-12
US7364257B2 (en) 2008-04-29
JP2010012795A (en) 2010-01-21
KR20060116851A (en) 2006-11-15
CA2550817A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US20080143797A1 (en) 2008-06-19
US7328984B2 (en) 2008-02-12
US7393076B2 (en) 2008-07-01
AU2004314466B2 (en) 2008-06-26
CA2550790A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US7303252B2 (en) 2007-12-04
US7938518B2 (en) 2011-05-10
US8366244B2 (en) 2013-02-05
US20050157020A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US8070266B2 (en) 2011-12-06
US20100134553A1 (en) 2010-06-03
US20050157035A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20050157010A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20050157028A1 (en) 2005-07-21
SG149860A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US20080151015A1 (en) 2008-06-26
US20090237472A1 (en) 2009-09-24
US20050157015A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US8348386B2 (en) 2013-01-08
US20100194832A1 (en) 2010-08-05
JP2007521988A (en) 2007-08-09
KR20060117352A (en) 2006-11-16
US20080211858A1 (en) 2008-09-04
AU2008229654B2 (en) 2010-09-23
US7377635B2 (en) 2008-05-27
EP1706272A4 (en) 2011-01-05
CA2550774A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US8007087B2 (en) 2011-08-30
US7748818B2 (en) 2010-07-06
US20080024569A1 (en) 2008-01-31
US20080043054A1 (en) 2008-02-21
US20050157133A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20080211888A1 (en) 2008-09-04
KR20060117351A (en) 2006-11-16
US20100165058A1 (en) 2010-07-01
US7708392B2 (en) 2010-05-04
US20100271421A1 (en) 2010-10-28
JP2011020456A (en) 2011-02-03
US20080246787A1 (en) 2008-10-09
US7815300B2 (en) 2010-10-19
US20080273065A1 (en) 2008-11-06
US20050157099A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20100201740A1 (en) 2010-08-12
EP2527150A3 (en) 2013-05-08
SG149847A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US8002394B2 (en) 2011-08-23
US7585054B2 (en) 2009-09-08
US20080111872A1 (en) 2008-05-15
US20080211886A1 (en) 2008-09-04
US20100134575A1 (en) 2010-06-03
US20080278553A1 (en) 2008-11-13
US20080088683A1 (en) 2008-04-17
US7467861B2 (en) 2008-12-23
SG149839A1 (en) 2009-02-27
JP2007518603A (en) 2007-07-12
US20080278554A1 (en) 2008-11-13
US7431424B2 (en) 2008-10-07
US8220900B2 (en) 2012-07-17
US7490927B2 (en) 2009-02-17
US20090102904A1 (en) 2009-04-23
WO2005070673A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US7249833B2 (en) 2007-07-31
US7470007B2 (en) 2008-12-30
US20080002006A1 (en) 2008-01-03
US7699448B2 (en) 2010-04-20
US20080158313A1 (en) 2008-07-03
US7249822B2 (en) 2007-07-31
CN1953871A (en) 2007-04-25
US20050157107A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20080218538A1 (en) 2008-09-11
SG149845A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US8020976B2 (en) 2011-09-20
KR20060117354A (en) 2006-11-16
US20080303859A1 (en) 2008-12-11
US7748828B2 (en) 2010-07-06
US7806522B2 (en) 2010-10-05
SG149842A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US20060024116A1 (en) 2006-02-02
AU2004314469A1 (en) 2005-08-04
SG149864A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US20050157061A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20150165800A1 (en) 2015-06-18
US7621620B2 (en) 2009-11-24
EP1706274A4 (en) 2008-04-09
KR100778960B1 (en) 2007-11-22
EP1709790A1 (en) 2006-10-11
SG149848A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US20100277556A1 (en) 2010-11-04
CN1906037A (en) 2007-01-31
US9044956B2 (en) 2015-06-02
US20080218567A1 (en) 2008-09-11
SG149835A1 (en) 2009-02-27
CN1930002A (en) 2007-03-14
AU2010241381B2 (en) 2011-05-12
US20050157018A1 (en) 2005-07-21
AU2004314469B2 (en) 2008-09-18
US8042922B2 (en) 2011-10-25
US20090096847A1 (en) 2009-04-16
US20100271427A1 (en) 2010-10-28
US20090303302A1 (en) 2009-12-10
EP1709790A4 (en) 2008-04-16
AU2008229654A1 (en) 2008-10-23
US7686437B2 (en) 2010-03-30
US8485651B2 (en) 2013-07-16
US20080151022A1 (en) 2008-06-26
US7753507B2 (en) 2010-07-13
US7152972B2 (en) 2006-12-26
US20050157025A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20070257973A1 (en) 2007-11-08
US8079684B2 (en) 2011-12-20
US7946697B2 (en) 2011-05-24
US7322684B2 (en) 2008-01-29
JP5648034B2 (en) 2015-01-07
US7556359B2 (en) 2009-07-07
US8075110B2 (en) 2011-12-13
US7699446B2 (en) 2010-04-20
US20050157065A1 (en) 2005-07-21
EP1706274A1 (en) 2006-10-04
US7887169B2 (en) 2011-02-15
US20050157023A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20080186370A1 (en) 2008-08-07
EP2527150B1 (en) 2014-02-26
US7488052B2 (en) 2009-02-10
JP2007534519A (en) 2007-11-29
US7380902B2 (en) 2008-06-03
SG149844A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US20050157031A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7360860B2 (en) 2008-04-22
US7938519B2 (en) 2011-05-10
US20100103220A1 (en) 2010-04-29
US7360861B2 (en) 2008-04-22
KR100814171B1 (en) 2008-03-14
US20050156987A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7537309B2 (en) 2009-05-26
US7390075B2 (en) 2008-06-24
US7802879B2 (en) 2010-09-28
US20090102883A1 (en) 2009-04-23
US7549738B2 (en) 2009-06-23
US20080273067A1 (en) 2008-11-06
US7311381B2 (en) 2007-12-25
SG149843A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US7971978B2 (en) 2011-07-05
US7658479B2 (en) 2010-02-09
US8439497B2 (en) 2013-05-14
JP5302843B2 (en) 2013-10-02
KR20080015949A (en) 2008-02-20
WO2005070686A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US20050157012A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7938530B2 (en) 2011-05-10
US7837296B2 (en) 2010-11-23
US20050157022A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7661812B2 (en) 2010-02-16
US7658483B2 (en) 2010-02-09
EP1706277A4 (en) 2011-01-05
US7819490B2 (en) 2010-10-26
CA2550799A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US20050157013A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7350896B2 (en) 2008-04-01
US7347534B2 (en) 2008-03-25
US20050157017A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7901062B2 (en) 2011-03-08
US7874665B2 (en) 2011-01-25
US7845782B2 (en) 2010-12-07
WO2005070678A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US7537315B2 (en) 2009-05-26
CN1918895A (en) 2007-02-21
US7322685B2 (en) 2008-01-29
AU2004314465B2 (en) 2008-07-10
US7311382B2 (en) 2007-12-25
US7543808B2 (en) 2009-06-09
CN100548691C (en) 2009-10-14
US20080136877A1 (en) 2008-06-12
US20050157039A1 (en) 2005-07-21
SG149834A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US20050156994A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7513610B2 (en) 2009-04-07
US8398216B2 (en) 2013-03-19
US8251501B2 (en) 2012-08-28
JP4960994B2 (en) 2012-06-27
US20050157007A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7513615B2 (en) 2009-04-07
KR20090036609A (en) 2009-04-14
US20100149230A1 (en) 2010-06-17
US20090213162A1 (en) 2009-08-27
WO2005070677A1 (en) 2005-08-04
JP4634400B2 (en) 2011-02-16
US20080239030A1 (en) 2008-10-02
US20090058893A1 (en) 2009-03-05
US20080088682A1 (en) 2008-04-17
US20080068427A1 (en) 2008-03-20
US20080297574A1 (en) 2008-12-04
AU2004314466A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US7901043B2 (en) 2011-03-08
JP2009262568A (en) 2009-11-12
US20100208012A1 (en) 2010-08-19
US7331660B2 (en) 2008-02-19
US7588324B2 (en) 2009-09-15
JP2007527802A (en) 2007-10-04
US20100220126A1 (en) 2010-09-02
CA2550799C (en) 2011-05-10
US7357493B2 (en) 2008-04-15
SG149841A1 (en) 2009-02-27
EP1706272B1 (en) 2012-08-22
US20050156993A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7255430B2 (en) 2007-08-14
US20080036826A1 (en) 2008-02-14
AU2004314468B2 (en) 2008-07-31
US20120056941A1 (en) 2012-03-08
KR101000175B1 (en) 2010-12-10
US20090213176A1 (en) 2009-08-27
US20050156989A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20050157024A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7771035B2 (en) 2010-08-10
US20050157106A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20080117271A1 (en) 2008-05-22
US7677692B2 (en) 2010-03-16
CN100457465C (en) 2009-02-04
SG149861A1 (en) 2009-02-27
KR20080015950A (en) 2008-02-20
US20100225714A1 (en) 2010-09-09
US7427121B2 (en) 2008-09-23
US7686446B2 (en) 2010-03-30
US8109616B2 (en) 2012-02-07
US7841707B2 (en) 2010-11-30
KR100973611B1 (en) 2010-08-02
EP2527150A2 (en) 2012-11-28
KR20080020702A (en) 2008-03-05
US7547098B2 (en) 2009-06-16
US7566106B2 (en) 2009-07-28
US7726789B2 (en) 2010-06-01
US7322671B2 (en) 2008-01-29
JP5302842B2 (en) 2013-10-02
US20050157016A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20090167811A1 (en) 2009-07-02
US20090237471A1 (en) 2009-09-24
US8002393B2 (en) 2011-08-23
US8251499B2 (en) 2012-08-28
US20050156992A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20050156990A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20090295864A1 (en) 2009-12-03
US20050157008A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20090009571A1 (en) 2009-01-08
US7806519B2 (en) 2010-10-05
AU2004314613B2 (en) 2008-10-02
US20090091607A1 (en) 2009-04-09
US7303268B2 (en) 2007-12-04
US20100182372A1 (en) 2010-07-22
US7407262B2 (en) 2008-08-05
US7357492B2 (en) 2008-04-15
US8240825B2 (en) 2012-08-14
US7399072B2 (en) 2008-07-15
US7699447B2 (en) 2010-04-20
US8047639B2 (en) 2011-11-01
US20080012890A1 (en) 2008-01-17
AU2004314467B2 (en) 2009-10-29
AU2004314468A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US7712882B2 (en) 2010-05-11
US7762652B2 (en) 2010-07-27
US20080136876A1 (en) 2008-06-12
US8500259B2 (en) 2013-08-06
US20050157105A1 (en) 2005-07-21
CA2550774C (en) 2010-10-12
JP2010264770A (en) 2010-11-25
JP2007535420A (en) 2007-12-06
US20060028529A1 (en) 2006-02-09
US20050157006A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20050157009A1 (en) 2005-07-21
JP4922354B2 (en) 2012-04-25
US20100053273A1 (en) 2010-03-04
US20090085993A1 (en) 2009-04-02
US7429096B2 (en) 2008-09-30
US8376533B2 (en) 2013-02-19
KR100733490B1 (en) 2007-06-28
US20050156981A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20050157036A1 (en) 2005-07-21
CA2550813A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US7695125B2 (en) 2010-04-13
AU2010241381A1 (en) 2010-12-02
AU2004314613A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US7588301B2 (en) 2009-09-15
US20120086744A1 (en) 2012-04-12
US7270405B2 (en) 2007-09-18
US8079700B2 (en) 2011-12-20
US20050157037A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7914136B2 (en) 2011-03-29
US8235502B2 (en) 2012-08-07
EP1709790B1 (en) 2012-09-26
JP2009262569A (en) 2009-11-12
US7331661B2 (en) 2008-02-19
JP2007518602A (en) 2007-07-12
US20050157029A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US8007093B2 (en) 2011-08-30
US7611223B2 (en) 2009-11-03
US20050157030A1 (en) 2005-07-21
CN100482475C (en) 2009-04-29
US20050157027A1 (en) 2005-07-21
SG149859A1 (en) 2009-02-27
JP4891370B2 (en) 2012-03-07
JP2009262567A (en) 2009-11-12
US20090262154A1 (en) 2009-10-22
US7328973B2 (en) 2008-02-12
US20050157026A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20080252703A1 (en) 2008-10-16
KR20060117353A (en) 2006-11-16
US20090303295A1 (en) 2009-12-10
US20100039475A1 (en) 2010-02-18
US20100207999A1 (en) 2010-08-19
US7914140B2 (en) 2011-03-29
US20050157021A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20050157034A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20100283817A1 (en) 2010-11-11
US7681967B2 (en) 2010-03-23
US20100165059A1 (en) 2010-07-01
US7703885B2 (en) 2010-04-27
US8672450B2 (en) 2014-03-18
US7942502B2 (en) 2011-05-17
US7467860B2 (en) 2008-12-23
JP2010000809A (en) 2010-01-07
US8007083B2 (en) 2011-08-30
US20050157014A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20050157098A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20090303301A1 (en) 2009-12-10
US20050157033A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US20050157019A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US8057023B2 (en) 2011-11-15
SG149836A1 (en) 2009-02-27
WO2005070674A1 (en) 2005-08-04
CN101450549B (en) 2011-04-20
EP1706268A4 (en) 2011-01-05
US20080094445A1 (en) 2008-04-24
JP2013049277A (en) 2013-03-14
US7380910B2 (en) 2008-06-03
CN101450549A (en) 2009-06-10
EP1706272A1 (en) 2006-10-04
US20050162462A1 (en) 2005-07-28
US20080158317A1 (en) 2008-07-03
US20140160202A1 (en) 2014-06-12
US20080211898A1 (en) 2008-09-04
US8007065B2 (en) 2011-08-30
SG149840A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US20080111870A1 (en) 2008-05-15
US20100214383A1 (en) 2010-08-26
CA2550813C (en) 2011-02-22
US20090303300A1 (en) 2009-12-10
US20090207209A1 (en) 2009-08-20
US20130169714A1 (en) 2013-07-04
US7780282B2 (en) 2010-08-24
US20070252870A1 (en) 2007-11-01
SG149865A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US20050157038A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7695121B2 (en) 2010-04-13
SG149837A1 (en) 2009-02-27
EP1706274B1 (en) 2011-05-25
US20080303882A1 (en) 2008-12-11
US20080278557A1 (en) 2008-11-13
US20050156988A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7703886B2 (en) 2010-04-27
US20050157011A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7300140B2 (en) 2007-11-27
SG149838A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US7470006B2 (en) 2008-12-30
US20100123766A1 (en) 2010-05-20
US7284816B2 (en) 2007-10-23
KR20060116021A (en) 2006-11-13
US20050157032A1 (en) 2005-07-21
ATE510696T1 (en) 2011-06-15
US7284845B2 (en) 2007-10-23
US20050156986A1 (en) 2005-07-21
WO2005071937A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US20050156985A1 (en) 2005-07-21
US7524043B2 (en) 2009-04-28
US20070222841A1 (en) 2007-09-27
US7350913B2 (en) 2008-04-01
SG149863A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US7775642B2 (en) 2010-08-17
SG149862A1 (en) 2009-02-27
US7686439B2 (en) 2010-03-30
AU2004314467A1 (en) 2005-08-04
CN100586715C (en) 2010-02-03
US7416287B2 (en) 2008-08-26
AU2004314465A1 (en) 2005-08-04
US20100128094A1 (en) 2010-05-27
US20080297565A1 (en) 2008-12-04
EP1706277B1 (en) 2012-08-15
EP1706268A1 (en) 2006-10-04
US7771031B2 (en) 2010-08-10
JP2009262565A (en) 2009-11-12
US20100194831A1 (en) 2010-08-05
US7857436B2 (en) 2010-12-28
KR20080108569A (en) 2008-12-15
US7976137B2 (en) 2011-07-12
US20090244218A1 (en) 2009-10-01
US7390080B2 (en) 2008-06-24
US20080129802A1 (en) 2008-06-05
US20080297572A1 (en) 2008-12-04
US7331663B2 (en) 2008-02-19
US20100194833A1 (en) 2010-08-05
CN1918007A (en) 2007-02-21
US20100182387A1 (en) 2010-07-22
US20080225091A1 (en) 2008-09-18

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
CA2550790C (en) Inkjet printer unit having a high speed print engine

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
EEER Examination request
MKLA Lapsed

Effective date: 20210831

MKLA Lapsed

Effective date: 20191220