Print cartridge coupling and reservoir assembly for use in an inkjet printing system with an off-axis ink supply

摘要

Disclosed is a fluidic coupling that releasably and fluidically connects to the inlet port of an inkjet print cartridge. The fluidic coupling acts as a seal for the print cartridge and a means of lubricating and protecting the inlet port from drying, leaking ink, and air ingestion while the print cartridge is in transit and in storage. The fluidic coupling also provides an auxiliary ink reservoir for the print cartridge. The fluidic coupling further provides an ink conduit to the printhead from an external ink supply. First first and second end portions define an internal chamber, the internal chamber providing an internal fluid conduit for ink between the first and second ends of the body; and a fluidic coupling affixed to the first end of the body and in fluidic communication with the internal chamber. Optionally, there is a second fluidic coupling affixed to the second end of the body adapted to releasably seal to an outlet port of an ink supply to allow fluid communication between internal fluid conduit and the outlet port of the ink supply so as to allow ink flow from the ink supply through the second fluidic coupling, and into the internal fluid conduit.