Printer Ink Line Filling

Pictures of this project are omitted due to confidentiality agreements.

Client Need:

Client needed a method for filling empty tubing with ink (but leaving no air) on installation of printer at customer's site. The goals were: low cost, easy to use and foolproof operation.

D&K Solution:

A disposable "Line Fill Printhead" was developed that easily snaps into the same place as the user's printhead. Ink flows from the ink supply through 8 feet of tubing as it pushes the air ahead of it through the printer. A coagulating filter in the Line Fill Printhead stops fluid flow after contact with ink.

Results:

Prototype parts were designed and successfully tested in the lab. The solution was thoroughly documented and then handed over to the client for implementation.