The OEM’s application covers a “refilled [inkjet] cartridge and method for manufacturing” it, which could have implications for the industry.
Epson’s patent application – EP 2 689 932 A3
The European patent application – EP 2 689 932 A3 – covers a “refilled cartridge and method for manufacturing” said cartridge, with the application document providing detail on the inner workings, as well as how the air pressure works within the cartridge. It adds that the method is “provided for performing refilling of printing material after use”, with mentions of a “detection section that optically detects the printing material inside the chamber”.
In addition, the document mentions an “air introduction port that introduces outside air into the chamber”; a valve section “that opens and closes the air introduction port according to the negative pressure inside the chamber”; and a supply port “that supplies the printing material within the chamber to the outside”. The manufacturing method for the cartridge means that the “printing material is refilled into the chamber so that a designated volume of air exists after refilling of the printing material is completed”.