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Chapter 2

2-22

e) Subtank

The subtank installed under each ink tank complements the work of the ink tank, agitating the ink in the tank.

If the ink tank runs out of the ink while printing, the ink stored in the subtank is available, allowing the ink tank to be replaced without having to stop printing.

f) Ink supply valves

Ink tank supply valves are located halfway between the ink tanks and the ink tubes. These valves prevent the leakage of inks that might otherwise be caused by the

opening of the ink tubes on the side of the ink tanks during their replacement.

The ink supply valves are caused to open and close by the valve open/close mechanism that is activated by driving the valve motors.

The ink tank unit consists of tank bases each are organized into one group of six colors, and six-color ink tubes.

The color-specific ink supply valves will open and close at the same time for all colors.

F-2-10

Subtank

Agitation cam sensor

Hollow needle

Valve motor

Valve open/closed detection sensor

Ink tube

Ink supply valve