Importance

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Abstract

In the representative embodiments of an ink jet array described in the specification, a linear array of ink jet orifices is supplied with ink from pressure chambers alternately disposed on opposite sides of the array to permit close spacing of the ink jet orifices. At the end opposite from the ink jet orifice, each pressure chamber communicates with a low acoustic impedance chamber to reflect negative pressure pulses from the pressure chamber back through the chamber as positive pulses and to prevent pressure pulses from being transmitted to the ink supply. In addition, a high-impedance passage between the low acoustic impedance chamber associated with one pressure chamber and the pressure chamber for the adjacent ink jet provides a continuous flowthrough passage from the ink supply port for one ink jet to the ink supply port for an adjacent ink jet. This permits continuous circulation by thermal convection of the ink when the ink jets are not in use to prevent settling of pigment in a pigmented ink and to transport ink containing dissolved air from the region of the ink jet orifice to a deaeration passage.

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First Claim