Print engine with ink storage modules incorporating collapsible bags
View Patent ↗A print engine is provided for an inkjet printer unit. The print engine includes a cradle unit and a replaceable cartridge unit to be releasably received within the cradle unit. The cartridge unit includes an elongate body defining a row of cavities. An ink storage module assembly includes a plurality of ink storage modules received within the cavities. Each ink storage module includes a collapsible ink storage bag extending between a pair of plates. A printhead assembly is mounted to the body and includes an ink ejection integrated circuit (IC) connected to receive ink from the ink storage modules.
1. A print engine for an inkjet printer unit, the print engine including a cradle unit and a replaceable cartridge unit to be releasably received within the cradle unit, the cartridge unit comprising:
an elongate body defining a row of cavities;
an ink storage module assembly including a plurality of ink storage modules received within the cavities, each ink storage module including a collapsible ink storage bag extending between a pair of plates; and
a printhead assembly mounted to the body and including an ink ejection integrated circuit (IC) connected to receive ink from the ink storage modules, wherein
each ink storage module further includes a filter configured to filter ink flowing from the bag and out through one of the plates.
2. A print engine as claimed in claim 1 , wherein each ink storage module further includes a biasing means configured to bias the plates apart so that the bag expands and thereby maintains ink within the bag at negative pressure.