Multifunction cell with a variable volume chamber and a fluid supply circuit for an ink jet printing head

Claim 1

A circuit for supplying a continuous ink jet printing head with ink, which comprises at least one cell which includes: a stepper motor having a rotor; a pressure sensor; a variable volume chamber containing said ink, which is connected to said pressure sensor and controlled by said stepper motor; a plurality of valves connected to said variable volume chamber, each of said values being in communication with a restriction; and means for opening and closing said valves electronically as a function of the position of said rotor of said stepper motor and allowing for opposite directions of movement of the fluid whereby said cell is adapted to accomplish multiple functions wherein said cell comprises: a stepper motor having a rotor; a pressure sensor; a variable volume chamber, which is connected to said pressure sensor and controlled by said stepper motor; a plurality of valves connected to said variable volume chamber, each of said valves being in communication with a restriction; and means for opening and closing said valves electronically as a function of the position of said rotor of said stepper motor and allowing for opposite directions of movement of the fluid such that said cell is adapted to accomplish multiple functions wherein said cell comprises viscosity measuring means, a valve maintained open for a complete cycle of the rotor of motor, the maximum pressure difference generated at the ends of the restriction corresponding to the open valve leading to measurement of the viscosity of the fluid which flows through said open valve.