System and method for generating edible decorative items

Abstract

A system for generating an edible decorative item for a food product is provided. The system includes a computer including a processor for executing computer program codes. The computer also includes a display device for displaying a user interface. The system also includes an image forming apparatus including a spongeless ink cartridge for storing an edible ink. The spongeless ink cartridge does not include a sponge. The image forming apparatus also includes an image forming unit for forming an image on an edible image formation medium to generate the edible decorative item.

1 - 11 . (canceled) 
     
     
         12 . A spongeless ink cartridge configured to store an edible ink for generating an edible decorative item, comprising:
 a housing, wherein an inner space enclosed by the housing is substantially used for storing the edible ink and does not store a sponge therein;   an air vent hole;   an ink exit port; and   an air tube disposed within the housing and extending from the air vent hole to the inner space.   
     
     
         13 . The spongeless ink cartridge of  claim 12 , further including a plug removably attached to the ink exit port, the plug having an opening for the edible ink to exit during printing. 
     
     
         14 . The spongeless ink cartridge of  claim 13 , wherein the plug is made of a silicon rubber type material. 
     
     
         15 . The spongeless ink cartridge of  claim 14 , wherein the opening of the plug includes a single-line-cut shape. 
     
     
         16 . The spongeless ink cartridge of  claim 14 , wherein the opening of the plug includes a crossing-line-cut shape. 
     
     
         17 . The spongeless ink cartridge of  claim 12 , wherein the air vent hole is located at a first end of the air tube, and
 wherein the air tube includes an air control valve at a second end.   
     
     
         18 . The spongeless ink cartridge of  claim 17 , wherein the air control valve is disposed at a position close to a bottom side of the housing when the spongeless ink cartridge is installed in a printer. 
     
     
         19 - 20 . (canceled)