System for delivering ink to a printhead

A system for delivering ink to a printhead for use with an ink reservoir, the ink delivery system comprising:

• an ink delivery device connectable to and in fluid communication with the ink reservoir;
• a bladder defining a volume, the bladder being operably connected to and in fluid communication with the ink delivery device, the bladder having a diaphragm as a portion thereof;
• a sensor operably connected to the diaphragm, the sensor generating a signal responsive to movement of the diaphragm;
• a controller being operably connected to the sensor for determining the change in the size of the bladder and thereby determining ink usage and the controller being operably connected to the ink delivery device.

A method of priming a bladder for use with an inkjet printing system, and an ink reservoir;

• an ink delivery system having a bladder, an ink delivery device for delivering ink to the bladder, a separator in fluid connection with the bladder and a vacuum pump in fluid connection with the separator, and a sensor operably connected to the bladder, the method comprising the steps of:
• checking a seal between the bladder and the separator and determining if the seal is within acceptable limits;
• if within acceptable limits then pouring ink into the bladder;
• vacuuming air out of the bladder;
• determining if the bladder has a level within a predetermined range.