Abstract: An ink and solvent supply consists of a dual-chambered container. The lower chamber is provided with make-up solvent, while the upper chamber is provided with ink concentrate. When solvent is required, it is removed directly from the lower chamber. When fresh ink is required, vacuum is applied to the upper chamber causing solvent to pass from the lower chamber to the upper chamber via a conduit, to dilute the ink concentrate to form fresh ink which is then provided to the printing system.

Abstract: An ink return system for an ink jet printer which directs a portion of the ink projected from a nozzle to a print surface and the remainder to a catcher, the catcher having a receptacle entrance for intercepting the ink stream including a tube with an entrance to catch the ink stream and then convey the ink liquid along a flow path away from the catcher and a cowling adjacent the receptacle connected to a vacuum source to create a scavenging air flow at the tube entrance for ingesting ink mist without exposing the intercepted liquid ink to the relatively high rate of air flow necessary to sweep away the ink mist.

Abstract: A system for controlling the flow of pressurized liquid to a head, for example the print-head of an ink jet printing system, through an elastic conduit and including an outer conduit to form a pressurizable jacket surrounding the inner conduit extending between the head and a remotely located liquid flow control valve, the jacket being depressurized by operation of a valve utilizing a controller simultaneously with closure or shut-off of the liquid flow control valve to prevent dribbling or drooling of liquid at the head immediately following shut-off.

Abstract: A vacuum return ink system for an ink jet printing apparatus includes an ink/air separator comprising a housing having a chamber formed therein. A first inlet port of relatively large diameter connects the chamber via a short tube of similar diameter to the ink catcher of the printing apparatus used for accumulating unused ink. A second port of relatively large diameter is provided to connect the chamber via a tube of a similar diameter to a vacuum source. A third port of relatively small diameter is provided to connect the chamber via a tube of similar diameter to an evacuated ink return tank. A tubular section defining the third port is inserted into the housing with the end thereof extending to the floor of the chamber. Ink and air are drawn from the catcher into the chamber via the first port at a high rate of flow, thereby minimizing a buildup of ink at the catcher mouth.