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(11) | EP 0 109 242 A3 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | Multipurpose fluid dispensing apparatus |
| (57) © The invention provides a dispensing apparatus for a fluid, notably a pressurised
ink. A manifold is provided which is adapted to receive the medium to be dispensed.
A plurality of solenoid valves, each having an input port and an output port, are
connected to the manifold by connecting conduits. A series of rigid tubes connect
the solenoid output ports with openings in a tube plate. A removable orifice plate
overlays the tube plate and has a plurality of openings which are arranged in alignment
with the tube plate openings. A valve cradle is provided for positioning the solenoid
valves within the dispensing head. The valve cradle has a plurality of valve receptacles
for receiving the respective output ports of the plurality of solenoid valves. The invention also provides a valve for use in the dispensing apparatus of the invention which has an outer jacket with opposing ends and a plunger bore which communicates between the ends. An end cap is located on one of the jacket opposing ends and has an output port which communicates with the plunger bore. A plunger stop located on the jacket end opposite the end cap is at least partially received within the plunger bore and has an input port and internal passageway communicating the input port with the plunger bore. A plunger is slidably received within the plunger bore. An energizable electrical coil wound about the plunger bore allows the plunger to move between opened and closed positions in response to energization of the coil. |