Fused filter screen for use in ink jet cartridge and method of assembling same
An ink tank cartridge includes a housing having a chamber in which ink is stored. A screen is secured to a surface of the housing through which an outlet passage communicates with the chamber. The screen is fused to the first surface by melting a continuous portion or bead around the outlet passage with a heated ram, ultrasonic welding, laser welding, etc. A vacuum can be applied through the outlet port to assist in locating and removing wrinkles from the screen. A recess can also be provided in the first surface of the housing to locate the screen and allow the ink absorbing member, filled with ink, to form a liquid-tight seal with the remainder of the first surface about the recess.
1. A method of assembling an ink cartridge that has a chamber for receiving ink therein and an outlet passage communicating with the chamber through which ink is selectively dispensed, and a screen for filtering ink before the ink passes through the outlet passage, the method comprising the steps of:
locating the screen in overlying relation with the outlet passage;
fusing a portion of the screen in sealing relation to the ink cartridge;
advancing a ram into the chamber toward the outlet passage;
urging the screen against the ink cartridge adjacent the outlet passage; and
heating the ram to fuse the screen to the ink cartridge around the outlet passage.
2. A method of assembling an ink cartridge that has a chamber for receiving ink therein and an outlet passage communicating with the chamber through which ink is selectively dispensed, and a screen for filtering ink before the ink passes through the outlet passage, the method comprising the steps of:
locating the screen in overlying relation with the outlet passage;
fusing a portion of the screen in sealing relation to the ink cartridge;
advancing a ram into the chamber toward the outlet passage; and,
urging the screen against the ink cartridge adjacent the outlet passage wherein the urging step includes applying a vacuum at the outlet passage to pull the screen in position thereover.
3. The method of claim 2 comprising the further step of recessing a central portion of the ram.
4. A method of assembling an ink cartridge that has a chamber for receiving ink therein and an outlet passage communicating with the chamber through which ink is selectively dispensed, and a screen for filtering ink before the ink passes through the outlet passage, the method comprising the steps of:
locating the screen in overlying relation with the outlet passage;
fusing a portion of the screen in sealing relation to the ink cartridge; and,
advancing a ram into the chamber toward the outlet passage wherein the advancing step includes contacting the screen with the ram along a peripheral portion.