Abstract: A printhead cartridge identification system is disclosed which ensures that an ink jet printer operates only with ink jet cartridges compatible with the specific printer function. An ink container which supplies ink to an associated printhead has a light reflector incorporated into a transparent wall of the ink container housing. The cartridge, comprising the ink container and associated printhead, is mounted on a scan carriage. Periodically, the carriage is conveyed to an optical station comprising a light source and a photosensor. The light source is energized and a beam of light is directed towards the reflector.

Abstract: In one embodiment of an ink jet print cartridge wherein ink flows from an ink container to a printhead via an ink manifold which includes an ink pipe which projects into an outlet port in the ink container. The interface between the manifold and the outlet port is sealed by placing a foam member, in compression, between two adjoining surfaces. In one embodiment, the foam is a closed cell neoprene. In another embodiment, the foam is a dual membrane consisting of a first layer of closed cell foam laminated to an open cell foam. In a third embodiment, a member is used to both seal the pipe to outlet port interface and also to wipe the ink pipe clear of ink. A polyurethane member is affixed to the outside surface of the ink container adjacent the outlet port. The polyurethane member has an aperture with a diameter which is smaller than the outside diameter of the ink pipe.

Abstract: An ink container for an ink printer is disclosed of the type wherein a foam member is seated within the ink container in which ink is drawn by capillary action through an ink outlet port in the container. The interior surface of the compartment of the container which seats the compressed foam has been treated so as to establish two areas of surface finish. A first area, adjacent the face of the container through which the foam is inserted, has a fine surface finish to prevent the foam from rebounding or bulging back through the entrance face following insertion. A second finish, in the more interior portion of the compartment, is relatively coarser and is designed to prevent the foam member from pulling away from interior corners and insures a more even distribution of the foam.