Ink tank cartridge that prevents leakage of residual ink and ink jet recording apparatus using same

摘要

An ink jet recording apparatus is designed to prevent leakage of ink from an ink tank cartridge with recording ink stored therein when the cartridge is removed. A flexible ink bag is sandwiched between an upper plate and a lower plate so that the-upper plate can be moved as the ink bag contracts as the ink is consumed. When the ink is almost gone, the upper plate is held by a latch on the lower plate, and movement of the ink bag is suppressed. Leakage of ink from a stopper that provides access to the ink bag is prevented by sealing members on the upper and lower plates. Thus, when the cartridge is replaced, no ink will be applied.