Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus

By designing multiple outlets and offset flow channels in the liquid jet head, the problem of bubble retention was solved, enabling stable operation of the liquid jet head at different angles and improving the reliability and efficiency of the device.

CN113799487BActive Publication Date: 2025-11-04SEIKO EPSON CORP
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202110653113.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2020-06-17
Filing Date
2021-06-11
Publication Date
2025-11-04
Estimated Expiration
2041-06-11

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing liquid spray heads, air bubbles tend to get stuck in the upper part of the downstream chamber of the filter, causing poor liquid spraying, especially when the nozzle face is tilted relative to the horizontal plane.

Method used

A liquid jet nozzle was designed, in which the downstream chamber of the filter is configured with multiple outlets, and the liquid is effectively discharged by means of different flow channels offset from the nozzle face in the vertical direction, thus avoiding the retention of air bubbles. The specific structure includes the design of a first flow channel, a second flow channel, and a common flow channel, which are connected to the downstream chamber through the first and second outlets, respectively.

Benefits of technology

It effectively prevents air bubble retention, ensures stable operation of the liquid injection head at different angles, and improves the reliability and efficiency of the liquid injection device.

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Abstract

A liquid ejecting head and a liquid ejecting apparatus capable of reducing the retention of air bubbles in a flow path of liquid are provided. The liquid ejecting head has a nozzle face having a plurality of nozzles that eject liquid, a filter through which liquid passes, a downstream chamber having a first discharge port and a second discharge port for discharging liquid, and configured at a downstream side with respect to the filter, and a portion of a wall face is constituted by the filter, a first flow path that communicates with the downstream chamber via the first discharge port, a second flow path that communicates with the downstream chamber via the second discharge port, a common flow path that communicates with the first flow path and the second flow path, and when the downstream chamber is viewed in a direction perpendicular to the nozzle face, the first discharge port is configured to be offset in a first direction with respect to a center of the downstream chamber, and the second discharge port is configured to be offset in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the center of the downstream chamber.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a liquid injection head and a liquid injection device. Background Technology

[0002] Liquid ejection devices, such as inkjet printers, have been known for having liquid ejection heads that eject liquids such as ink. For example, the liquid ejection head described in Patent Document 1 has a liquid introduction member that introduces liquid into a liquid flow channel connected to a nozzle that ejects liquid. This liquid introduction member has: a filter chamber having an inlet for introducing liquid; a filter for filtering the liquid introduced from the inlet; and a downstream chamber for discharging the liquid that has passed through the filter.

[0003] Patent document 2 discloses a device in which four inkjet heads are arranged around a roller that rotates and transports paper.

[0004] In the device described in Patent Document 2, four inkjet heads are each arranged in an inclined position relative to the horizontal plane. Here, for example, we assume that the liquid jet head described in Patent Document 1 is applied to the device described in Patent Document 2. However, in the liquid jet head described in Patent Document 1, since the liquid discharge opening is located in the center of the downstream chamber of the filter, when used in an inclined state relative to the horizontal plane, there is a problem that air bubbles will be trapped in the downstream chamber of the filter in a portion above the liquid discharge opening.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-43369

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-79170 Summary of the Invention

[0007] To address the above-mentioned problems, the preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a liquid injection head comprising: a nozzle face having a plurality of nozzles for injecting liquid; a filter through which liquid passes; a downstream chamber having a first outlet and a second outlet for discharging liquid, and being disposed downstream of the filter, with a portion of the wall formed by the filter; a first flow channel communicating with the downstream chamber via the first outlet; a second flow channel communicating with the downstream chamber via the second outlet; and a common flow channel communicating with both the first and second flow channels. When viewed in a plane perpendicular to the nozzle face, the first outlet is disposed offset in a first direction relative to the center of the downstream chamber, and the second outlet is disposed offset in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the center of the downstream chamber.

[0008] A preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a liquid jet head comprising: a nozzle face having a plurality of nozzles for jetting liquid; a filter through which liquid passes; a downstream chamber having a first outlet, a second outlet, and a third outlet for discharging liquid, and being disposed downstream of the filter, and having a portion of its wall formed by the filter; a first flow channel communicating with the downstream chamber via the first outlet; a second flow channel communicating with the downstream chamber via the second outlet; a third flow channel communicating with the downstream chamber via the third outlet; and a common flow channel communicating with the first flow channel, the second flow channel, and the third flow channel.

[0009] The preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a liquid injection device comprising: a liquid injection head of any of the above-described embodiments; and a conveying mechanism for conveying the medium. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a simplified diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid injection device according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a liquid injection module having the liquid injection head of the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3 for Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the liquid jet head is shown.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a plan view of the main body of the liquid injection head.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a plan view of the cage.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a plan view of the flow channel structure.

[0016] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Sectional view along line AA in the diagram.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a plan view used to illustrate the downstream chamber, the first outlet, and the second outlet.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram used to illustrate the function of the first and second outlets.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a diagram used to illustrate existing problem points.

[0020] Figure 11This is a simplified diagram of the liquid injection device according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a simplified diagram of the liquid injection device according to the third embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of a liquid injection module having the liquid injection head according to the fourth embodiment.

[0023] Figure 14 for Figure 13 An exploded perspective view of the liquid jet head is shown.

[0024] Figure 15 For use in Figure 13 The diagram illustrates the arrangement of nozzles in the liquid injection head.

[0025] Figure 16 This diagram illustrates a structural example of the flow channel component in the fourth embodiment.

[0026] Figure 17 This diagram illustrates a structural example of the flow channel component in the fourth embodiment.

[0027] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram showing the downstream chamber and the outlet in Modified Example 1.

[0028] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram showing the downstream chamber and the outlet in Modified Example 2.

[0029] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram showing the downstream chamber and the outlet in Modified Example 3.

[0030] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram showing the downstream chamber and the outlet in Modified Example 4.

[0031] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram showing the downstream chamber and the outlet in Modified Example 5. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the dimensions or scales of various parts in the drawings differ appropriately from actual dimensions or scales, and some parts are shown schematically for ease of understanding. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified in the following description, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0033] The following explanation uses intersecting X, Y, and Z axes appropriately. Furthermore, a direction along the X-axis is referred to as the X1 direction, and the opposite direction is referred to as the X2 direction. Similarly, opposite directions along the Y-axis are referred to as the Y1 and Y2 directions. Furthermore, opposite directions along the Z-axis are referred to as the Z1 and Z2 directions. The Y2 direction is an example of a "first direction." The Y1 direction is an example of a "second direction." The X1 or X2 direction is an example of a "third direction."

[0034] Here, typically, the Z-axis is a vertical axis, and the Z2 direction corresponds to the downward direction within the vertical direction. However, the Z-axis may not be a vertical axis, and may be inclined relative to the vertical axis. Furthermore, although the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are typically orthogonal to each other, this is not a limitation; for example, they may intersect at an angle between 80 and 100 degrees.

[0035] 1. First Implementation Method

[0036] 1-1. Liquid injection device 100

[0037] Figure 1 This is a simplified diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid jetting apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. The liquid jetting apparatus 100 is an inkjet printing apparatus that jets ink, as an example of a liquid, into a medium 101 in the form of droplets. The liquid jetting apparatus 100 of this embodiment is a so-called row-type printing apparatus in which multiple nozzles for jetting ink are distributed across the entire width direction of the medium 101. The medium 101 is typically printing paper. However, the medium 101 is not limited to printing paper; for example, it can be any printing material such as resin film or fabric.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, a liquid container 102 for storing ink is installed in the liquid dispensing device 100. Specific examples of the liquid container 102 include a detachable box relative to the liquid dispensing device 100, a bag-shaped ink pouch formed of a flexible film, and an ink canister capable of being refilled. Furthermore, the type of ink stored in the liquid container 102 can be any type.

[0039] Although not illustrated, the liquid container 102 of this embodiment includes a first liquid container and a second liquid container. A first ink is stored in the first liquid container. A second ink of a different type than the first ink is stored in the second liquid container. For example, the first ink and the second ink may be inks of different colors. Alternatively, the first ink and the second ink may be inks of the same type.

[0040] The liquid injection device 100 includes a control unit 20, a delivery mechanism 30, a liquid injection module 40, and a circulation mechanism 50. The control unit 20 controls the operation of each component of the liquid injection device 100. The control unit 20 includes, for example, processing circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and storage circuits such as semiconductor memory. Various programs and data are stored in this storage circuit. The processing circuit executes the program while appropriately using the data to achieve various controls.

[0041] The conveying mechanism 30 conveys the medium 101 along direction DM based on control implemented by the control unit 20. In this embodiment, direction DM is the Y2 direction. Figure 1 In the example shown, the conveying mechanism 30 includes a conveying roller along the X-axis and a motor that rotates the conveying roller. Furthermore, the conveying mechanism 30 is not limited to a structure using a conveying roller; for example, it can also be a structure using a roller or a seamless belt to convey the medium 101 while it is being attracted to the outer peripheral surface by electrostatic force or the like.

[0042] Based on control implemented by the control unit 20, the liquid jetting module 40 jets ink supplied from the liquid container 102 via the circulation mechanism 50 from multiple nozzles toward the medium 101 in the Z2 direction. The liquid jetting module 40 is a row head having multiple liquid jetting heads 10 arranged in a manner that distributes the multiple nozzles across the entire range of the medium 101 in the X-axis direction. That is, the multiple liquid jetting heads 10 form a long row head extending in the X-axis direction. By performing the jetting of ink from the multiple liquid jetting heads 10 and the conveying of the medium 101 by the conveying mechanism 30 in parallel, an image composed of ink is formed on the surface of the medium 101. Alternatively, the liquid jetting module 40 may also be a row head extending in the X-axis direction consisting only of a single liquid jetting head 10 arranged in a manner that distributes the multiple nozzles across the entire range of the medium 101 in the X-axis direction.

[0043] exist Figure 1In the example shown, the liquid container 102 is connected to the liquid injection module 40 via a circulation mechanism 50. The circulation mechanism 50 supplies ink to the liquid injection module 40 and recovers ink discharged from the liquid injection module 40 for resupply. The circulation mechanism 50 includes, for example: a sub-tank for storing ink; a supply channel for supplying ink from the sub-tank to the liquid injection module 40; a recovery channel for recovering ink from the liquid injection module back to the sub-tank; and a pump for properly flowing the ink. These components are respectively provided for the first ink and the second ink described above. Through the operation of the circulation mechanism 50, the increase in ink viscosity can be suppressed or the retention of air bubbles within the ink can be reduced.

[0044] Additionally, the liquid jetting device 100 may also have a maintenance mechanism for maintenance operations of the liquid jetting module 40. Maintenance operations include, for example, rinsing and cleaning operations. The rinsing operation is the forced ejection of ink that does not directly contribute to image formation from multiple nozzles. The cleaning operation is the forced discharge of ink from the liquid jetting module 40 from the multiple nozzles by pressurization from the upstream side or suction from the downstream side. The maintenance mechanism includes a rinsing tank for collecting the ink ejected from each nozzle N by the rinsing operation, and a cover for sealing the multiple nozzles N during the cleaning operation.

[0045] As described above, the liquid injection device 100 includes a liquid injection head 10 and a conveying mechanism 30 for conveying the medium 101. The conveying mechanism 30 conveys the medium 101 in the Y2 direction at a position opposite to the liquid injection head 10. The liquid injection device 100 of this embodiment includes a liquid injection module 40 as an example of a linear head. The liquid injection module 40 includes the liquid injection head 10 and is elongated in the direction intersecting the Y2 direction. In this embodiment, the liquid injection module 40 includes the liquid injection head 10 and is elongated in the direction orthogonal to the Y2 direction.

[0046] 1-2. Liquid injection module 40

[0047] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a liquid injection module 40 having the liquid injection head 10 of the first embodiment. Figure 2 As shown, the liquid injection module 40 has a support body 41 and a plurality of liquid injection heads 10. The support body 41 is a component that supports the plurality of liquid injection heads 10. Figure 2In the example shown, the support 41 is a plate-shaped component made of metal or the like, and is provided with mounting holes 41a for mounting a plurality of liquid injection heads 10. The plurality of liquid injection heads 10 are inserted into the mounting holes 41a in a configuration along the X-axis direction, and each liquid injection head 10 is fixed relative to the support 41 by screws or the like. Figure 2 The diagram illustrates two liquid injection heads 10. The number of liquid injection heads 10 in the liquid injection module 40 is arbitrary. Furthermore, the shape of the support 41 is not limited to any particular type. Figure 2 The example shown is of any shape.

[0048] 1-3. Liquid injection head 10

[0049] Figure 3 for Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the liquid injection head 10 shown. Figure 3 As shown, the liquid injection head 10 includes a flow channel structure 11, a wiring board 12, a retainer 13, multiple head bodies 14_1, 14_2, 14_3, 14_4, 14_5, and 14_6, a fixing plate 15, and a base 16. These components are arranged in the Z2 direction in the following order: base 16, flow channel structure 11, wiring board 12, retainer 13, multiple head bodies 14_1, 14_2, 14_3, 14_4, 14_5, and 14_6, and fixing plate 15. The various parts of the liquid injection head 10 will be described sequentially below. In the following text, each head body 14_1, 14_2, 14_3, 14_4, 14_5, and 14_6 may be referred to as head body 14.

[0050] The flow channel structure 11 is a structure with internally arranged flow channels for allowing ink to flow between the circulation mechanism 50 and the plurality of head bodies 14. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the flow channel structure 11 includes a flow channel component 1 and connecting pipes 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d. Although in Figure 3 The diagram is omitted, but the flow channel component 1 includes: a supply flow channel for supplying first ink to the plurality of head bodies 14; a supply flow channel for supplying second ink to the plurality of head bodies 14; an discharge flow channel for discharging the first ink from the plurality of head bodies 14; and a discharge flow channel for discharging the second ink from the plurality of head bodies 14. Furthermore, a filter for capturing foreign matter is provided midway through each supply flow channel. The internal structure of the flow channel component 1 will be described in detail below.

[0051] The flow channel component 1 has layers 21, 22, and 23, which are laminated in this order along the Z2 direction. By appropriately providing grooves or holes in these layers, flow channels such as supply channels and discharge channels are formed. Layers 21, 22, and 23 are made of resin material, for example, and are formed by injection molding. Layers 21, 22, and 23 are bonded together, for example, by an adhesive. Furthermore, the thicknesses of layers 21, 22, and 23 along the Z-axis can be either the same or different.

[0052] The flow channel component 1 is plate-shaped, extending in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis. Figure 3 In the example shown, a hole 1a is provided on the flow channel component 1 for insertion of the connector 12c, which will be described later. On the Z1-oriented surface of the flow channel component 1, connecting pipes 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d protrude.

[0053] Connecting pipe 11a is a pipe body that forms a flow channel for supplying the first ink to the flow channel component 1. Furthermore, connecting pipe 11b is a pipe body that forms a flow channel for supplying the second ink to the flow channel component 1. On the other hand, connecting pipe 11c is a pipe body that forms a flow channel for discharging the first ink from the flow channel component 1. Furthermore, connecting pipe 11d is a pipe body that forms a flow channel for discharging the second ink from the flow channel component 1.

[0054] The wiring board 12 is a mounting component for electrically connecting a plurality of head bodies 14 and the assembly board 16b described later. The wiring board 12 is, for example, a rigid wiring board. The wiring board 12 is disposed between the flow channel structure 11 and the retainer 13, and a connector 12c is provided on the surface of the wiring board 12 opposite to the flow channel structure 11. The connector 12c is a connecting component that connects to the assembly board 16b described later. Furthermore, a plurality of holes 12a and a plurality of openings 12b are provided on the wiring board 12. Each hole 12a is a hole for allowing connection between the flow channel structure 11 and the retainer 13. Each opening 12b is a hole through which a wiring component 14a, connecting the head body 14 and the wiring board 12, passes. This wiring component 14a is connected to the surface of the wiring board 12 facing the Z1 direction. Wiring component 14a is a component that includes wiring electrically connected to drive element Ea or drive element Eb, which will be described later. For example, it is an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuits) or COF (Chip On Film).

[0055] The retainer 13 is a structure that houses and supports multiple head bodies 14. The retainer 13 is made of, for example, resin or metal. The retainer 13 is plate-shaped and expands in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis. Multiple ink holes 13a and multiple wiring holes 13b are provided on the retainer 13. Each ink hole 13a is an opening on the side of the flow channel structure 11 in the flow channel through which ink flows between the head body 14 and the flow channel structure 11. Each wiring hole 13b is a hole through which a wiring component 14a connecting the head body 14 and the wiring board 12 passes. Although not shown here, the retainer 13 has inside: a supply flow channel for supplying first ink to the head body 14, a supply flow channel for supplying second ink to the head body 14, a circulation flow channel for allowing the first ink to flow from the head body 14 to the discharge flow channel CM of the flow channel structure 11, and a circulation flow channel for allowing the second ink to flow from the head body 14 to the discharge flow channel CM of the flow channel structure 11. Furthermore, although not shown, the holder 13 has branched channels inside for distributing or collecting ink between the ink holes 13a and the multiple head bodies 14. Also, although not shown, the holder 13 has multiple recesses on its Z2-oriented surface for accommodating the multiple head bodies 14.

[0056] Each head body 14 sprays ink. Specifically, although in Figure 3 The diagram is omitted, but each head body 14 has multiple nozzles for spraying the first ink and multiple nozzles for spraying the second ink. These nozzles are arranged on the nozzle surface FN facing the Z2 direction of each head body 14. The structure of the head body 14 will be described below. In addition, the planar view taken in the direction perpendicular to the nozzle surface FN will be referred to as "planar view".

[0057] The fixing plate 15 is a plate component used to fix a plurality of head bodies 14 relative to the retainer 13. Specifically, the fixing plate 15 is configured to clamp the plurality of head bodies 14 between itself and the retainer 13, and is fixed relative to the retainer 13 by adhesive. The fixing plate 15 is made of, for example, a metal material. A plurality of openings 15a are provided on the fixing plate 15 to expose the nozzles of the plurality of head bodies 14. Figure 3 In the example shown, the plurality of openings 15a are provided independently for each head body 14. Alternatively, the openings 15a may be shared by two or more head bodies 14.

[0058] The base 16 is a component used to fix the flow channel structure 11, wiring board 12, bracket 13, multiple head bodies 14, and fixing plate 15 relative to the support body 41 described above. The base 16 has a main body 16a, a collection board 16b, and a cover 16c.

[0059] The main body 16a is fixed relative to the retainer 13 by screws or the like, thereby holding the flow channel structure 11 and the wiring board 12 disposed between the base 16 and the retainer 13. The main body 16a is made of, for example, resin material. The main body 16a has a plate-shaped portion opposite to the flow channel component 1, and a plurality of holes 16d are provided on the plate-shaped portion for inserting the connecting tubes 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d. In addition, the main body 16a has a portion extending from the plate-shaped portion in the Z2 direction, and a flange 16e for fixing to the support 41 is provided at the top end of the portion.

[0060] The assembly substrate 16b is a mounting component for electrically connecting the control unit 20 and the aforementioned wiring substrate 12. The assembly substrate 16b is, for example, a rigid wiring substrate. The cover 16c is a plate-shaped component for protecting the assembly substrate 16b and fixing it relative to the main body 16a. The cover 16c is made of, for example, resin material and is fixed to the main body 16a by screws or the like.

[0061] 1-4. Head body 14

[0062] Figure 4 This is a plan view of the head body 14 of the liquid injection head 10. Figure 4 The diagram schematically illustrates the internal structure of the head body 14 when viewed in the Z1 direction. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 4 As shown, the head body 14 has a liquid jetting section Qa and a liquid jetting section Qb. The liquid jetting section Qa has a nozzle array La consisting of a plurality of nozzles N that jettison a first ink supplied from the circulation mechanism 50. The liquid jetting section Qb has a nozzle array Lb consisting of a plurality of nozzles N that jettison a second ink supplied from the circulation mechanism 50. The plurality of nozzles N in each nozzle array La and nozzle array Lb are arranged in the direction DN.

[0063] The liquid injection unit Qa includes a liquid storage chamber Ra, multiple pressure chambers Ca, and multiple drive elements Ea. The liquid storage chamber Ra is a common liquid chamber continuously spanning multiple nozzles N of the nozzle array La. Pressure chambers Ca and drive elements Ea are respectively provided for each nozzle N of the nozzle array La. Pressure chambers Ca are spaces communicating with nozzles N. First ink supplied from the liquid storage chamber Ra fills each of the multiple pressure chambers Ca. Drive elements Ea cause changes in the pressure of the first ink within pressure chambers Ca. Drive elements Ea are, for example, piezoelectric elements that change the volume of pressure chamber Ca by deforming the wall surface of the pressure chamber Ca, or heating elements that generate bubbles within pressure chamber Ca by heating the first ink within the pressure chamber Ca. By changing the pressure of the first ink within pressure chambers Ca, the drive elements Ea eject the first ink from the nozzles N.

[0064] Similar to the liquid jetting unit Qa, the liquid jetting unit Qb has a liquid storage chamber Rb, multiple pressure chambers Cb, and multiple drive elements Eb. The liquid storage chamber Rb is a common liquid chamber continuously spanning multiple nozzles N of the nozzle array Lb. Pressure chambers Cb and drive elements Eb are respectively provided for each nozzle N of the nozzle array Lb. Second ink supplied from the liquid storage chamber Rb fills each of the multiple pressure chambers Cb. The drive element Eb is, for example, a piezoelectric element or a heating element as described above. The drive element Eb causes a change in the pressure of the second ink within the pressure chamber Cb, thereby ejecting the second ink from the nozzle N within the pressure chamber Cb.

[0065] like Figure 4 As shown, the head body 14 is provided with an inlet Ra_in, an outlet Ra_out, an inlet Rb_in, and an outlet Rb_out. The inlet Ra_in and outlet Ra_out are respectively connected to the liquid storage chamber Ra. The inlet Rb_in and outlet Rb_out are respectively connected to the liquid storage chamber Rb.

[0066] In the head body 14 described above, the first ink, which is not ejected from each nozzle N of the nozzle array La and is stored in the liquid storage chamber Ra, is circulated sequentially through the outlet Ra_out, the circulation channel for the first ink in the holder 13, the discharge channel for the first ink in the channel structure 11, the sub-tank for the first ink in the circulation mechanism 50, the supply channel for the first ink in the channel structure 11, the supply channel for the first ink in the holder 13, the inlet Ra_in, and the liquid storage chamber Ra. Similarly, the second ink, which is not ejected from each nozzle N of the nozzle array Lb and is stored in the liquid storage chamber Rb, is circulated sequentially through the outlet Rb_out, the circulation channel for the second ink in the holder 13, the discharge channel for the second ink in the channel structure 11, the sub-tank for the second ink in the circulation mechanism 50, the supply channel for the second ink in the channel structure 11, the supply channel for the second ink in the holder 13, the inlet Rb_in, and the liquid storage chamber Rb.

[0067] Figure 5 This is a plan view of cage 13. (See attached image.) Figure 5 As shown, six head bodies 14_1 to 14_6 are held on the cage 13. These head bodies are arranged in the X2 direction in the order of head body 14_1, head body 14_4, head body 14_2, head body 14_5, head body 14_3, and head body 14_6. Here, head bodies 14_1 to 14_3 are positioned offset in the Y1 direction relative to head bodies 14_4 to 14_6. However, head bodies 14_1 to 14_6 have overlapping portions when viewed in either the X1 or X2 direction. Furthermore, head bodies 14_1 to 14_6 are arranged parallel to each other in the direction DN of the extension of nozzle rows La and Lb. However, head bodies 14_1 to 14_6 are each configured such that the direction DN is inclined relative to the direction DM, which is the conveying direction of the medium 101.

[0068] 1-5. Flow channel component 1

[0069] Figure 6 This is a plan view of the flow channel structure 11. Figure 6 In the diagram, a dashed line represents an example of the structure within the flow channel component 1 when viewed in the Z2 direction. For example... Figure 6 As shown, two common flow channels CC, two discharge flow channels CM, and two filter chambers RF are provided inside the flow channel component 1. The two common flow channels CC are examples of common flow channels.

[0070] One of the two common flow channels CC is for supplying ink from the connecting pipe 11a to the liquid storage chamber Ra of each head body 14, and the other common flow channel CC is for supplying ink from the connecting pipe 11b to the liquid storage chamber Rb of each head body 14. Each common flow channel CC is connected to the discharge port CE for discharging ink toward the head body 14. In addition, the common flow channel CC is connected to the internal space of the connecting pipe 11a or the connecting pipe 11b via the filter chamber RF. The filter chamber RF is the space where the filter 25 described later is installed, and is connected to the common flow channel CC via the first flow channel C1 and the second flow channel C2.

[0071] One of the two discharge channels CM is for discharging ink from the liquid storage chamber Ra of each head body 14 to the connecting pipe 11c, and the other discharge channel CM is for discharging ink from the liquid storage chamber Rb of each head body 14 to the connecting pipe 11d. Each discharge channel CM is connected to the inlet CI of the ink supplied from the head body 14.

[0072] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Sectional view along line AA in the diagram. Figure 8 This is a plan view used to illustrate the downstream chamber R2, the first outlet 24c, and the second outlet 24d. Additionally, in Figure 7 In the diagram, a representative structure corresponding to connecting pipe 11a is shown for flow channel component 1. The structure corresponding to connecting pipe 11b is the same as the structure corresponding to connecting pipe 11a.

[0073] like Figure 7 As shown, in the flow channel component 1, layers 21, 22 and 23 are laminated in the Z2 direction in this order.

[0074] A concave surface 21a, an inlet 21b, and a groove 21c are provided on layer 21. The concave surface 21a is provided on the surface of layer 21 facing the Z2 direction and forms part of the wall of the filter chamber RF. Figure 7 In the example shown, the concave surface 21a has a shape that continuously deepens towards the inlet 21b. The inlet 21b is a through hole that opens into the concave surface 21a and communicates with the internal space of the connecting pipe 11a. Figure 7 In the example shown, the connecting tube 11a and the layer 21 are integrally formed. Therefore, the connecting tube 11a is made of the same resin material as the layer 21. The groove 21c is provided along the outer periphery of the concave surface 21a on the surface of the layer 21 facing the Z2 direction, and forms a space for receiving a part of the fixing member 24 described later. The groove 21c can also function as a clearance for the adhesive.

[0075] Alternatively, the connecting pipe 11a can be separately constructed from the layer 21. In this case, the connecting pipe 11a can also be made of a metal material or the like, and is fixed to the layer 21 by an adhesive or the like. Furthermore, the groove 21c can be provided as needed and may be omitted. Similarly, as with the connecting pipe 11a, the connecting pipes 11b to 11d can be either integrally constructed with the layer 21 or separately constructed from the layer 21.

[0076] A recess 22a, a groove 22b, a hole 22c, and a hole 22d are provided on layer 22. The recess 22a is provided on the surface of layer 22 facing the Z1 direction and forms a space for accommodating a portion of the fixing member 24 described later. The groove 22b is provided on the surface of layer 22 facing the Z2 direction and forms part of the common flow channel CC. Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 In the example shown, the common flow channel CC is shaped to extend along the Y-axis and has a portion that narrows in area on the XZ plane towards the Y2 direction. Therefore, the groove 22b is shaped to extend along the Y-axis. Holes 22c and 22d are openings in the recess 22a and groove 22b, respectively, and penetrate layer 22. Figure 7 In the example shown, hole 22c is connected to the end of groove 22b in the Y2 direction. Hole 22d is connected to groove 22b at a position relative to hole 22c in the Y1 direction.

[0077] A slot 23a is provided on layer 23. The slot 23a is provided on the surface of layer 23 facing the Z1 direction and forms part of the common flow channel CC. Figure 7 In the example shown, groove 23a has a shape that extends along the Y-axis. Additionally, although in Figure 7 In the example shown, the common flow channel CC is formed by slot 22b of layer 22 and slot 23a of layer 23, but the common flow channel CC can also be formed by either slot 22b or slot 23a.

[0078] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, in addition to the layers 21, 22 and 23 mentioned above, the flow channel component 1 also has a fixing component 24 and a filter 25 located between layers 21 and 22.

[0079] The fixing component 24 is a generally plate-shaped component that fixes the filter 25 to at least one of the layers 21 and 22 and forms part of the wall of the filter chamber RF. Figure 7In the example shown, the fixing member 24 is disposed in the aforementioned recess 22a. The fixing member 24 is made of, for example, resin material and is formed by injection molding. Here, the fixing member 24 is formed by molding the filter 25 as an insert, thereby enabling the filter 25 to be fixed relative to the fixing member 24. Furthermore, the fixing member 24 is fixed relative to at least one of layer 21 and layer 22 by an adhesive, for example.

[0080] Thus, by fixing the filter 25 to at least one of layers 21 and 22 via the fixing member 24, compared to a structure where the filter 25 is directly fixed to at least one of layers 21 and 22, the range of choices for the structural materials of layers 21 and 22 can be expanded, or the possibility of adhesive accidentally adhering to the filter 25 can be reduced. Furthermore, the structural material of the fixing member 24 can be the same as or different from the constituent material of layer 21 or layer 22.

[0081] The fixed component 24 is provided with a bottom wall 24a, a side frame 24b, a first outlet 24c, and a second outlet 24d.

[0082] The bottom wall 24a is disposed on the surface of the fixed member 24 facing the Z1 direction and forms part of the wall of the filter chamber RF. Figure 7 In the example shown, the bottom wall 24a has a shape that continuously deepens towards the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d, respectively. The frame portion 24b is an annular wall portion along the outer periphery of the bottom wall 24a and constitutes the sidewall of the filter chamber RF. More specifically, a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the frame portion 24b constitutes the sidewall 24i of the downstream chamber R2. Figure 7 In the example shown, a portion of the frame portion 24b is inserted into the aforementioned groove 21c. This insertion positions the fixing member 24 relative to the layer 21. Furthermore, a gap is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the frame portion 24b and the recess 22a. This gap can also function as a clearance for the adhesive. The first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d are holes that open in the bottom wall 24a and penetrate the fixing member 24. The first outlet 24c connects to the aforementioned hole 22c and together with the hole 22c forms a first flow channel C1. The second outlet 24d connects to the aforementioned hole 22d and together with the hole 22d forms a second flow channel C2.

[0083] In addition, such as Figure 8As shown, a flange 24g protrudes from the frame portion 24b in a direction away from the centerline LC on the fixing member 24. A hole 24h for positioning relative to the layer 22 is provided on the flange 24g. Although not shown, a protrusion inserted into the hole 24h is provided on the surface of the layer 22 facing the Z1 direction. Furthermore, the centerline LC is a straight line passing through the center PC and parallel to the Z-axis. The center PC is the geometric center of the downstream chamber R2 when viewed in planar view. The flange 24g can be provided as needed and may be omitted.

[0084] The filter 25 is a plate-shaped or sheet-like component that allows ink to pass through and captures foreign matter mixed in the ink. The filter 25 is made of metal fibers, such as twilled Dutch weave or plain Dutch weave. However, the filter 25 is not limited to a metal fiber structure; it can also be made of resin fibers such as non-woven fabric. The filter 25 is typically arranged parallel to the nozzle face FN. However, the filter 25 can also be configured to be inclined relative to the nozzle face FN within a range of 0 degrees to 45 degrees.

[0085] The filter 25 is fixed to the frame portion 24b of the aforementioned fixing member 24, and as... Figure 8 As shown by the double-dotted line, it is positioned in the area encompassing the entire range of the bottom wall 24a. Therefore, as... Figure 7 As shown, the filter chamber RF is divided into an upstream chamber R1 and a downstream chamber R2 by the filter 25. The upstream chamber R1 is the space located in the Z1 direction relative to the filter 25, with the concave surface 21a as part of the wall. The downstream chamber R2 is the space located in the Z2 direction relative to the filter 25, with the side wall 24i and the bottom wall 24a as part of the wall.

[0086] As described above, the liquid injection head 10 has a nozzle face FN, a filter 25, a downstream chamber R2, a first flow channel C1, a second flow channel C2, and a common flow channel CC, which is an example of a "common flow channel". Here, as mentioned above, the nozzle face FN has multiple nozzles N for ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid. The ink passes through the filter 25. The downstream chamber R2 has a first outlet 24c and a second outlet 24d for discharging ink, and is positioned downstream of the filter 25, with a portion of its wall formed by the filter 25. The first flow channel C1 communicates with the downstream chamber R2 via the first outlet 24c. The second flow channel C2 communicates with the downstream chamber R2 via the second outlet 24d. The common flow channel CC communicates with both the first flow channel C1 and the second flow channel C2.

[0087] Here, the liquid injection module 40 is configured such that the nozzle surface FN is tilted relative to the horizontal plane SF by rotating it about the X-axis, which extends in the direction of the long side of the liquid injection module 40, which serves as the head. In this embodiment, as... Figure 8 As shown, in a planar view perpendicular to the nozzle face FN, the first outlet 24c is configured to deviate in the Y2 direction relative to the center PC of the downstream chamber R2, while the second outlet 24d is configured to deviate in the Y1 direction relative to the center PC of the downstream chamber R2. Therefore, even if the nozzle face FN is tilted relative to the horizontal plane SF about an axis parallel to the X-axis, bubbles generated in the downstream chamber R2 can be discharged through either the first outlet 24c or the second outlet 24d.

[0088] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the function of the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d. For example, as... Figure 9 As shown, when the first outlet 24c is positioned vertically above the second outlet 24d, although the bubbles generated in the downstream chamber R2 move upwards in the vertical direction due to buoyancy, they are discharged through the first outlet 24c, which is positioned vertically above. Similarly, when the first outlet 24c is positioned vertically below the second outlet 24d, although the bubbles generated in the downstream chamber R2 move upwards in the vertical direction due to buoyancy, they are discharged through the second outlet 24d, which is positioned vertically above. Based on the above, regardless of the orientation of the liquid injection head 10, the retention of bubbles in the downstream chamber R2 can be reduced. Therefore, abnormal ink ejection caused by bubbles clogging the mesh of the filter 25 can be prevented.

[0089] Figure 10 This is a diagram used to illustrate existing problem points. For example... Figure 10 As shown, in a structure where ink from downstream chamber R2 is discharged from a discharge port 24X into flow channels CX1 and CX2, when downstream chamber R2 is tilted relative to the horizontal plane SF, air bubbles B, rising due to buoyancy, will remain trapped in the upper part of downstream chamber R2. These air bubbles B will clog the mesh of filter 25, resulting in abnormal ink ejection. Alternatively, the discharge port 24X could be positioned offset upwards from the center of downstream chamber R2. However, in this case, since the installation orientation is limited, the head with a different position for the discharge port 24X must be manufactured for each application, which is undesirable from a cost perspective.

[0090] Preferably, the areas of the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d are equal. In this case, even if the first outlet 24c is located at any position above or below the second outlet 24d in the vertical direction, the ease of venting bubble B is equal. Therefore, in a structure that promotes bubble B venting by circulating ink or performing maintenance operations, it is not necessary to change the operating conditions for bubble venting for each setting position of the downstream chamber R2. As a result, the operation of the device can be simplified. In addition, in this specification, "equal" includes not only the case of strict equality, but also the case of a difference of less than 5% due to manufacturing errors, etc.

[0091] From the same point of view, it is preferable that the distance L1 from the center PC of the downstream chamber R2 to the first outlet 24c is equal to the distance L2 from the center PC of the downstream chamber R2 to the second outlet 24d. In this case, even if the first outlet 24c is located at any position above or below the second outlet 24d in the vertical direction, the ease of discharging bubble B can be equal.

[0092] Furthermore, when viewed in plan view, the downstream chamber R2 has a portion whose width narrows in the X-axis extension direction of the downstream chamber R2 from its center PC toward the first outlet 24c. Therefore, compared to a structure without this portion, ink and air bubbles can flow more easily from the center PC of the downstream chamber R2 toward the first outlet 24c. Similarly, when viewed in plan view, the downstream chamber R2 has a portion whose width narrows in the X-axis extension direction of the downstream chamber R2 from its center PC toward the second outlet 24d. Therefore, compared to a structure without this portion, ink and air bubbles can flow more easily from the center PC of the downstream chamber R2 toward the second outlet 24d.

[0093] In this embodiment, the downstream chamber R2 is approximately hexagonal in shape when viewed in plan view, and the first outlet 24c is positioned near one corner of this approximately hexagonal shape. Furthermore, although in Figure 8In the downstream chamber R2, the corners of the approximately hexagonal structure have an R (rounded corner) shape, but it can also be a structure without an R shape. Therefore, as described above, when viewed in planar view, the width of the downstream chamber R2 in the X-axis extension direction continuously narrows from the center PC toward the first outlet 24c. Here, the second outlet 24d is located near the corner opposite the corner where the first outlet 24c is located, one of the six corners of the approximately hexagonal downstream chamber R2 when viewed in planar view. Therefore, when viewed in planar view, the width of the downstream chamber R2 in the X-axis extension direction continuously narrows from the center PC toward the second outlet 24d. Furthermore, the planar shape of the downstream chamber R2 is not limited to an approximately hexagonal shape, but can be any shape, preferably having a portion that facilitates the flow of ink and air bubbles from the center PC of the downstream chamber R2 toward the first outlet 24c or the second outlet 24d, as described above. Furthermore, the narrowing portion need only be located at at least a portion of the downstream chamber R2 between the central PC and the first outlet 24c or the second outlet 24d. Moreover, the narrowing portion is not limited to a continuous narrowing, but can also be a phased narrowing.

[0094] As described above, the liquid injection head 10 has a bottom wall 24a that defines the downstream chamber R2 together with the filter 25 and faces the filter 25. A first outlet 24c is provided on the bottom wall 24a. Therefore, compared to a structure where the first outlet 24c is provided on the side wall of the downstream chamber R2, it is easier to discharge air bubbles from the first outlet 24c. Furthermore, compared to a structure where the first outlet 24c is provided on the side wall of the downstream chamber R2, the path of the first flow channel C1 can be simplified, resulting in the advantage of easy miniaturization of the liquid injection head 10. In this embodiment, in addition to the first outlet 24c, a second outlet 24d is also provided on the bottom wall 24a, achieving the same effect as described above. Alternatively, depending on the conditions required for the liquid injection head 10, at least one of the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d may be provided on the side wall of the downstream chamber R2.

[0095] Similarly, from the viewpoint of facilitating the discharge of air bubbles from the first outlet 24c, the distance L3 between the first outlet 24c and the filter 25 is longer than the distance L4 between the bottom wall 24a at the center PC of the downstream chamber R2 and the filter 25 when viewed in plan view. Distance L3 is the distance along the Z-axis extending from the first outlet 24c and the filter 25, and distance L4 is the distance along the Z-axis extending from the bottom wall 24a at the position overlapping the center PC of the downstream chamber R2 when viewed in plan view. In this embodiment, the depth of the bottom wall 24a continuously increases towards the first outlet 24c. Therefore, ink and air bubbles easily flow along the bottom wall 24a towards the first outlet 24c. Furthermore, in this embodiment, similar to distance L3, the distance between the second outlet 24d and the filter 25 is also longer than the distance L4 between the bottom wall 24a at the center PC of the downstream chamber R2 when viewed in plan view. Therefore, ink and air bubbles easily flow along the bottom wall 24a towards the second outlet 24d.

[0096] Furthermore, the first outlet 24c is located at the end of the downstream chamber R2 in the Y2 direction, while the second outlet 24d is located at the end of the downstream chamber R2 in the Y1 direction. Therefore, even if the first outlet 24c is located at any position above or below the second outlet 24d in the vertical direction, bubble B can be easily discharged. Here, "end of the downstream chamber R2 in the Y2 direction" refers to the portion located near the end of the downstream chamber R2 in the Y2 direction relative to the centerline LC of the downstream chamber R2. Furthermore, if the distance between the first outlet 24c and the sidewall of the downstream chamber R2 is less than the diameter of the first outlet 24c, it can be said that the first outlet 24c is located at the end of the downstream chamber R2 in the Y2 direction. Similarly, "end of the downstream chamber R2 in the Y1 direction" refers to the portion located near the end of the downstream chamber R2 in the Y1 direction relative to the centerline LC of the downstream chamber R2. Furthermore, if the distance between the second outlet 24d and the side wall of the downstream chamber R2 is less than the diameter of the second outlet 24d, it can be said that the second outlet 24d is configured at the end of the downstream chamber R2 in the Y1 direction.

[0097] The liquid injection device 100 has an upstream chamber R1. The upstream chamber R1 has an inlet 21b for introducing ink and is disposed upstream of the filter 25, with a portion of its wall formed by the filter 25. The inlet 21b, when viewed in plan view, is disposed between the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d. Therefore, compared to a structure where the inlet 21b is not disposed between the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d when viewed in plan view, the ease of venting bubble B is equal even when the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d are located at any position above or below the vertical direction relative to the second outlet 24d. In this embodiment, the inlet 21b is located at the center between the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d when viewed in plan view. Therefore, even when the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d are located at any position above or below the vertical direction relative to the second outlet 24d, the ease of venting bubble B is easily equalized. In addition, in this embodiment, the inlet 21b is located in the center between the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d when viewed in a plane, on the center line LC of the downstream chamber R2, and also coincides with the center position of the upstream chamber R1.

[0098] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0099] The second embodiment of the present invention will now be described. Elements that function and operate the same as those in the first embodiment in the embodiments illustrated below will be referred to by the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions of each will be omitted as appropriate.

[0100] Figure 11 This is a simplified diagram of the liquid injection device 100A according to the second embodiment. The liquid injection device 100A has a conveying mechanism 30A instead of a conveying mechanism 30, and has a plurality of liquid injection modules 40; otherwise, it is the same as the liquid injection device 100 of the first embodiment described above. Furthermore, in Figure 11 The diagrams of the control unit 20 and the circulation mechanism 50 are omitted.

[0101] like Figure 11 As shown, the conveying mechanism 30A includes a roller 31 for conveying the medium 101 while it is adsorbed onto its outer peripheral surface. The roller 31 is a cylindrical or cylindrical component having an outer peripheral surface surrounding a central axis AX parallel to the X-axis. The roller 31 is driven to rotate around the central axis AX by a drive mechanism such as a motor (not shown). The outer peripheral surface of the roller 31 is charged by an electrostatic generator (not shown). Using the electrostatic force generated by this charging, the medium 101 is electrostatically adsorbed onto the outer peripheral surface of the roller 31.

[0102] Furthermore, the structure of the conveying mechanism 30A is not limited to the example shown in the figure. For example, a belt can be used instead of the roller 31, or air adsorption can be used instead of electrostatic adsorption. In addition, the conveying mechanism 30A may also be configured to have structural elements such as an electrostatic precipitator in addition to the structural elements described above.

[0103] Liquid injection modules 40_1, 40_2, 40_3, and 40_4 are respectively positioned opposite the outer peripheral surface of the roller 31. Liquid injection modules 40_1, 40_2, 40_3, and 40_4 are configured to be identical to the liquid injection module 40 of the first embodiment described above. Specifically, in each of the liquid injection modules 40_1 to 40_4, when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the nozzle surface FN, the first outlet 24c is configured to deviate in the Y2 direction relative to the center PC of the downstream chamber R2, while the second outlet 24d is configured to deviate in the Y1 direction relative to the center PC of the downstream chamber R2.

[0104] However, the orientations of liquid jetting modules 40_1, 40_2, 40_3, and 40_4 around an axis parallel to the X-axis are different. Furthermore, the types of ink used in liquid jetting modules 40_1, 40_2, 40_3, and 40_4 can be different for each module. For example, if the colors of the inks used in liquid jetting modules 40_1, 40_2, 40_3, and 40_4 are different for each module, then yellow, magenta, turquoise, and black inks can be used.

[0105] Specifically, liquid injection modules 40_1, 40_2, 40_3, and 40_4 are arranged in this order along the outer peripheral surface of the roller 31 in the direction DM. Furthermore, liquid injection modules 40_1, 40_2, 40_3, and 40_4 are each configured such that by rotating around a rotation axis extending in the long side direction (X1) of the liquid injection module 40, the nozzle surface FN is parallel to the tangential plane at the outer peripheral surface of the roller 31.

[0106] Here, the inclination angle θ1 of the nozzle surface FN of liquid injection module 40_1 relative to the horizontal plane SF is equal to the inclination angle θ4 of the nozzle surface FN of liquid injection module 40_4 relative to the horizontal plane SF. However, in liquid injection module 40_1, the nozzle surface FN is inclined upward in the vertical direction from upstream to downstream in the conveying direction of the medium 101 on roller 31. In contrast, in liquid injection module 40_4, the nozzle surface FN is inclined downward in the vertical direction from upstream to downstream in the conveying direction of the medium 101 on roller 31.

[0107] Similarly, the tilt angle θ2 of the nozzle surface FN of liquid injection module 40_2 relative to the horizontal plane SF is equal to the tilt angle θ3 of the nozzle surface FN of liquid injection module 40_3 relative to the horizontal plane SF. However, the tilt angles θ2 and θ3 are smaller than the aforementioned tilt angles θ1 and θ4, respectively. Furthermore, in liquid injection module 40_2, the nozzle surface FN tilts upward in the vertical direction from upstream to downstream of the medium 101 on roller 31. In contrast, in liquid injection module 40_3, the nozzle surface FN tilts downward in the vertical direction from upstream to downstream of the medium 101 on roller 31.

[0108] According to the second embodiment described above, similar to the first embodiment, bubble retention can be reduced. In this embodiment, as described above, the liquid injection device 100A has liquid injection modules 40_1 to 40_4 as examples of row heads. Here, any one of liquid injection modules 40_1 to 40_4 corresponds to a first row head. When liquid injection module 40_1 corresponds to the first row head, liquid injection module 40_4 corresponds to a second row head. When liquid injection module 40_2 corresponds to the first row head, liquid injection module 40_3 corresponds to the second row head. When liquid injection module 40_3 corresponds to the first row head, liquid injection module 40_2 corresponds to the second row head. When liquid injection module 40_4 corresponds to the first row head, liquid injection module 40_1 corresponds to the second row head. The second row head is positioned upstream or downstream of the medium 101 transport path relative to the first row head.

[0109] For example, when liquid injection module 40_1 corresponds to the first row head and liquid injection module 40_4 corresponds to the second row head, liquid injection module 40_1 is inclined so that the end of nozzle surface FN in the Y2 direction is located above the end in the Y1 direction in the vertical direction. On the other hand, liquid injection module 40_4 is inclined so that the end of nozzle surface FN in the Y2 direction is located below the end in the Y1 direction in the vertical direction.

[0110] In other words, the liquid injection device 100A has a liquid injection module 40_1 and a liquid injection module 40_4. When viewed in the X1 direction, the liquid injection module 40_1 is tilted relative to the horizontal plane SF by rotating to the left about the X-axis, and the liquid injection module 40_4 is tilted relative to the horizontal plane SF by rotating to the right about the X-axis. Thus, even in a structure having multiple liquid injection modules 40_1 to 40_4 that are tilted by rotating to the right and left around the X-axis, since each of the liquid injection modules 40_1 to 40_4 has a first outlet 24c that is offset in a Y2 direction orthogonal to the X-axis relative to the center PC of the downstream chamber R2 and a second outlet 24d that is offset in a Y1 direction orthogonal to the X-axis relative to the center PC of the downstream chamber R2, either the first outlet 24c or the second outlet 24d is located above the vertical direction within the downstream chamber R2, thereby reducing the amount of air bubbles trapped in the downstream chamber R2. Furthermore, even if the liquid injection modules 40_1 to 40_4 are configured with a common structure, since the liquid injection module 40 has the aforementioned first outlet 24c and second outlet 24d, the amount of air bubbles trapped in the downstream chamber R2 can still be reduced.

[0111] Here, the tilt angle θ1 of the nozzle surface FN in liquid injection module 40_1 relative to the horizontal plane SF and the tilt angle θ4 of the nozzle surface FN in liquid injection module 40_4 relative to the horizontal plane SF are equal. Therefore, the operating conditions for expelling bubbles do not need to be changed in liquid injection modules 40_1 and 40_4. This is also the same as when liquid injection module 40_2 is equivalent to the first row head and liquid injection module 40_3 is equivalent to the second row head.

[0112] 3. Third Implementation Method

[0113] The third embodiment of the present invention will now be described. Elements that function and operate the same as those in the first embodiment as illustrated below will be referred to by the same symbols used in the description of the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions of each will be omitted as appropriate.

[0114] Figure 12 This is a simplified diagram of the liquid injection device 100B according to the third embodiment. The liquid injection device 100B has a moving mechanism 60 and a liquid injection module 40B instead of a liquid injection module 40, otherwise it is the same as the liquid injection device 100 of the first embodiment described above.

[0115] The moving mechanism 60, based on control implemented by the control unit 20, causes the liquid injection module 40B to reciprocate in the X1 and X2 directions. Figure 12 In the example shown, the moving mechanism 60 has a box-shaped carriage 61 that houses the liquid injection module 40B and a conveyor belt 62 that secures the carriage 61. The conveyor belt 62 causes the carriage 61 to reciprocate in the X1 and X2 directions by a driving force from a drive source (not shown).

[0116] The liquid injection module 40B is configured similarly to the liquid injection module 40 of the first embodiment, except that multiple nozzles are distributed across a portion of the medium 101 in the X-axis direction. That is, in the liquid injection module 40B, when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the nozzle surface FN, the first outlet 24c is configured to be offset in the Y2 direction relative to the center PC of the downstream chamber R2, and the second outlet 24d is configured to be offset in the Y1 direction relative to the center PC of the downstream chamber R2.

[0117] In the liquid jetting apparatus 100B described above, by performing the jetting of ink from the liquid jetting module 40B in parallel with the transport of the medium 101 by the transport mechanism 30 and the reciprocating movement of the liquid jetting module 40B by the moving mechanism 60, an image composed of ink is formed on the surface of the medium 101.

[0118] According to the third embodiment described above, similar to the first embodiment, bubble retention can be reduced. In this embodiment, as described above, the liquid injection device 100B has a carriage 61. As described above, the carriage 61, which holds the liquid injection head 10, reciprocates along an X-axis extending in a direction intersecting the Y2 direction. In this serial liquid injection device 100B, since the liquid injection head 10 is inclined relative to the horizontal plane about an axis parallel to the direction of reciprocating movement of the carriage 61, i.e., the extension direction of the X-axis, either the first outlet 24c or the second outlet 24d is located above the downstream chamber R2 in the vertical direction, thereby appropriately obtaining the effect of reducing bubble retention as described above.

[0119] 4. Fourth Implementation Method

[0120] The fourth embodiment of the present invention will now be described. Elements that function and operate the same as those in the first embodiment as illustrated below will be referred to by the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions of each will be omitted as appropriate.

[0121] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of a liquid injection module having the liquid injection head according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 13 As shown, the liquid injection module 40C has a support body 41C and multiple liquid injection heads 10C. The support body 41C is a component that supports the multiple liquid injection heads 10C. Figure 13 In the example shown, the support body 41C is a plate-shaped component made of metal or the like, and has multiple mounting holes 41b for mounting multiple liquid injection heads 10C. Liquid injection heads 10C are inserted into each mounting hole 41b, and each liquid injection head 10C is fixed relative to the support body 41C by screws or the like. Figure 13 In this configuration, multiple liquid injection heads 10C are arranged in rows and columns along the X and Y axes. Furthermore, the number of liquid injection heads 10C in the liquid injection module 40C is not limited to a certain value. Figure 13 The examples shown are for any number of items. Furthermore, the shape of the support 41C is not limited to... Figure 13 The example shown is of any shape.

[0122] Figure 14 for Figure 13 An exploded perspective view of the liquid injection head 10C shown. Figure 14As shown, the liquid injection head 10C includes: a flow channel structure 11C, a wiring board 12C, a retainer 13C, head bodies 14_1, 14_2, 14_3, and 14_4, a fixing plate 15C, a reinforcing plate 17, and a cover 18. These components are arranged in the Z2 direction in the following order: cover 18, wiring board 12C, flow channel structure 11C, retainer 13C, head bodies 14_1, 14_2, 14_3, and 14_4, reinforcing plate 17, and fixing plate 15C. The following description will describe each part of the liquid injection head 10C in turn.

[0123] The flow channel structure 11C is constructed by laminating layers Su1 to Su5, and although its shape differs, it is otherwise constructed in the same manner as the flow channel structure 11 of the first embodiment described above. Therefore, like the flow channel structure 11, the flow channel structure 11C has a structure that reduces bubble retention. This structure will be described in detail below.

[0124] Wiring board 12C is a mounting component for electrically connecting head bodies 14_1, 14_2, 14_3, and 14_4 to control unit 20. Wiring board 12C is constructed, for example, of a flexible wiring board or a rigid wiring board. Wiring board 12C is disposed between flow channel structure 11C and cover 18, and connector 12c is provided on the surface of wiring board 12C opposite to the surface facing flow channel structure 11C. Connector 12c is a connection component for electrically connecting to control unit 20. Furthermore, wiring board 12C is electrically connected to multiple head bodies 14 via wiring (not shown). This wiring is constructed, for example, of a combination of flexible and rigid wiring boards. Alternatively, this wiring may be integrally formed with wiring board 12C.

[0125] The retainer 13C is identical to the retainer 13 of the first embodiment described above, except for its shape. The fixing plate 15C is identical to the fixing plate 15 of the first embodiment described above, except for its shape. However, a reinforcing plate 17 is disposed between the retainer 13C and the fixing plate 15C. Furthermore, in Figure 14 The image shows a structure where the cage 13C does not have branched flow channels.

[0126] The reinforcing plate 17 is a plate-shaped component that reinforces the fixing plate 15C. The reinforcing plate 17 is disposed overlapping the fixing plate 15C and is fixed to the fixing plate 15C by adhesive. Multiple openings 17a are provided on the reinforcing plate 17 for arranging the plurality of head bodies 14. The reinforcing plate 17 is made of, for example, a metal material.

[0127] The cover 18 is a box-shaped component that houses the flow channel component 1C and the wiring board 12C of the flow channel structure 11C. The cover 18 is made of, for example, resin material. Four through holes 18a and an opening 18b are provided on the cover 18. The four through holes 18a correspond to four connecting pipes of the flow channel structure 11C, and any one of the corresponding connecting pipes 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d passes through each through hole 18a. In the opening 18b, the connector 12c passes from the inside to the outside of the cover 18.

[0128] Figure 15 For use in Figure 13 The diagram illustrates the arrangement of nozzles N in the liquid injection head 10C. (See diagram for example.) Figure 15 As shown, the liquid injection head 10C has a first portion U1, a second portion U2, and a third portion U3. The first portion U1 is located between the second portion U2 and the third portion U3. The width of the second portion U2 and the third portion U3 along the X-axis is shorter than the width of the first portion U1 along the X-axis. Figure 15 In the example shown, the widths of the second part U2 and the third part U3 along the X-axis are equal. Furthermore, the end face of the first part U1 in the X1 direction is a plane continuous with the end face of the third part U3 in the X1 direction. Conversely, the end face of the first part U1 in the X2 direction is a plane continuous with the end face of the second part U2 in the X2 direction. Additionally, recesses or protrusions may be appropriately provided on these end faces. Furthermore, steps may be provided between these end faces.

[0129] like Figure 15 As shown, four head bodies 14_1 to 14_4 are held on cage 13C. Head body 14_1 is located in the Y1 direction relative to head body 14_2 and is disposed in the first part U1 described above. Here, a portion of head body 14_2 is disposed in the third part U3, and the remaining portion of head body 14_2 is disposed in the first part U1. Similarly, head body 14_4 is located in the Y2 direction relative to head body 14_3 and is disposed in the first part U1. Here, a portion of head body 14_3 is disposed in the second part U2, and the remaining portion of head body 14_3 is disposed in the first part U1.

[0130] In the liquid injection head 10C configured with head bodies 14_1 to 14_4 as described above, the ends of the nozzle rows La of head body 14_2 in the Y1 direction and the ends of the nozzle rows La of head body 14_4 in the Y2 direction overlap when viewed in the X-axis direction. Furthermore, the same relationship applies to head body 14_4 and head body 14_1, head body 14_1 and head body 14_3, and the same relationship applies to the nozzle rows Lb. Therefore, the nozzle rows La of head bodies 14_1 to 14_4 are continuous in the Y-axis direction, and the nozzle rows Lb of head bodies 14_1 to 14_4 are continuous in the Y-axis direction, thereby increasing the effective printing width of the liquid injection head 10C in the Y-axis direction.

[0131] Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 These figures illustrate a structural example of the flow channel component 1C in the fourth embodiment. Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 As shown, a supply channel Sa, a discharge channel Da, a supply channel Sb, and a discharge channel Db are provided inside the flow channel component 1C. The supply channel Sa is an example of a "common flow channel" and flows from the connecting pipe 11a to the liquid storage chamber Ra of each head body 14. The discharge channel Da flows from the liquid storage chamber Ra of each head body 14 to the connecting pipe 11b. The supply channel Sb is an example of a "common flow channel" and flows from the connecting pipe 11c to the liquid storage chamber Rb of each head body 14. The discharge channel Db flows from the liquid storage chamber Rb of each head body 14 to the connecting pipe 11d. These flow channels are formed by grooves and through holes appropriately provided in the aforementioned layers Su1 to Su5.

[0132] like Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 As shown, four filter sections Fa_1 to Fa_4 are provided in the supply flow channel Sa. Similarly, four filter sections Fb_1 to Fb_4 are provided in the supply flow channel Sb. Filter sections Fa_1 to Fa_4 and filter sections Fb_1 to Fb_4 are configured in the same manner as the filter 25 and its peripheral portion in the first embodiment described above.

[0133] In the case of using a liquid jet head 10C in a serial printer with the X-axis direction set as the main scanning direction, as described in the third embodiment above, by increasing the effective print width in the transport direction of the medium 101, the size of the image formed on the medium 101 during one reciprocating motion of the carriage 61 can be increased, thereby enabling the printing operation to be accelerated.

[0134] Therefore, when the liquid injection head 10C is applied in a serial configuration as described in the third embodiment above, the liquid injection head 10C is used in a manner where the direction DN in which multiple nozzles N are arranged is parallel to the direction DM in which the medium 101 is conveyed. In this case, similar to the third embodiment, it is possible to use the liquid injection head 10C in a state where the nozzle surface FN is tilted about an axis along the reciprocating movement direction of the carriage 61. Therefore, in this case, a structure can be adopted such that... Figure 16 As shown in the structural example, the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d in each of the filter sections Fa_1 to Fa_4 and the filter sections Fb_1 to Fb_4 are arranged in the Y1 direction or the Y2 direction.

[0135] On the other hand, when a liquid jet head 10C is used in a linear head that is long on the X-axis as described in the first or second embodiment above, a linear head can be constructed by setting the X-axis direction, which is the long side direction of the liquid jet head 10C, to be orthogonal to the transport direction DM, and increasing the effective printing width compared to the width dimension of the medium 101.

[0136] Therefore, when the liquid injection head 10C is applied to a row head as described in the first or second embodiment, the liquid injection head 10C is used in a manner where the direction DN in which a plurality of nozzles N are arranged is orthogonal to the direction DM in which the medium 101 is conveyed. In this case, similar to the first and second embodiments, it is possible to use the head with the nozzle surface FN tilted about an axis along the long side of the row head. Therefore, in this case, a structure can be adopted as follows: Figure 17 As shown in the structural example, the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d in each of the filter sections Fa_1 to Fa_4 and the filter sections Fb_1 to Fb_4 are arranged in the X1 direction or the X2 direction.

[0137] According to the fourth embodiment described above, the retention of air bubbles can be reduced, just like the first to third embodiments described above.

[0138] 5. Variations

[0139] The methods illustrated above can be varied in many ways. Specific variations applicable to the methods described above are illustrated below. Two or more methods arbitrarily selected from the following examples can be appropriately combined without contradiction.

[0140] 5-1. Variation Example 1

[0141] Figure 18This is a schematic diagram illustrating the downstream chamber R2, the first outlet 24c, the second outlet 24d, the third outlet 24e, and the fourth outlet 24f in Modification 1. In Modification 1, the downstream chamber R2, in addition to the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d, also has openings for the third outlet 24e and the fourth outlet 24f.

[0142] Here, the third outlet 24e discharges ink into the third flow channel C3, which connects the downstream chamber R2 and the common flow channel CC. Therefore, the third flow channel C3 is connected to the downstream chamber R2 via the third outlet 24e. Figure 18 In the example shown, the third outlet 24e is positioned, when viewed in planar view, not to overlap with the imaginary straight line LS passing through the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d. Therefore, bubbles can be discharged from the third outlet 24e not only when the downstream chamber R2 is tilted about an axis parallel to the X-axis as in the first embodiment, but also when the downstream chamber R2 is tilted about an axis parallel to the Y-axis. Furthermore, in Figure 18 In the diagram, the shape of the common flow channel CC is represented by a dashed line. Although in Figure 18 In the example shown, the common flow channel CC has a branched shape, but the shape of the common flow channel CC is not limited to... Figure 18 The example shown. Regarding this point, the following... Figures 19 to 22 The shape of the common flow channel CC shown is also similar, but not limited to the shape illustrated.

[0143] Furthermore, the fourth outlet 24f discharges ink into the fourth flow channel C4, which connects the downstream chamber R2 and the common flow channel CC. Therefore, the fourth flow channel C4 is connected to the downstream chamber R2 via the fourth outlet 24f. Figure 18 In the example shown, the third outlet 24e and the fourth outlet 24f are positioned on opposite sides of the straight line LS when viewed in a plane. Therefore, even if the downstream chamber R2 is tilted in any orientation about an axis parallel to the Y-axis, bubbles can still be discharged from either the third outlet 24e or the fourth outlet 24f.

[0144] like Figure 18As shown, the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d are arranged on a first straight line LS1 when viewed in plan view. The first straight line LS1 is an imaginary straight line that passes through the center PC of the downstream chamber R2 and extends in the Y2 direction when viewed in plan view. Furthermore, the third outlet 24e and the fourth outlet 24f are arranged on a second straight line LS2 when viewed in plan view. The second straight line LS2 is an imaginary straight line that passes through the center PC of the downstream chamber R2 and extends in either the X1 or X2 direction. Thus, by arranging the third outlet 24e and the fourth outlet 24f in addition to the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d, bubbles can be appropriately discharged from any outlet regardless of the tilt orientation of the downstream chamber R2.

[0145] 5-2. Variation Example 2

[0146] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the downstream chamber R2, the first outlet 24c, and the second outlet 24d in Modification Example 2. In Modification Example 2, the planar shape of the downstream chamber R2 is approximately quadrilateral compared to Modification Example 1. Furthermore, two of each of the first outlet 24c and the second outlet 24d are provided in the downstream chamber R2. These outlets are located near the four corners of the downstream chamber R2. According to Modification Example 2, the same effects as the first embodiment described above can be obtained. In addition, one of the two first outlets 24c can be understood as a third or fourth outlet. Similarly, one of the two second outlets 24d can be understood as a third or fourth outlet.

[0147] 5-3. Variation Example 3

[0148] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram showing the downstream chamber R2, the first outlet 24c, the second outlet 24d, the third outlet 24e, and the fourth outlet 24f in Modification Example 3. Modification Example 3 is identical to Modification Example 1 except that the planar shape of the downstream chamber R2 is the same as in Modification Example 2. Based on Modification Example 3, the same effects as the first embodiment described above can also be obtained.

[0149] 5-4. Variation Example 4

[0150] Figure 21This is a schematic diagram showing the downstream chamber R2, the first outlet 24c, and the second outlet 24d in Modification Example 4. The planar shape of the downstream chamber R2 in Modification Example 4 is the same as that in Modification Example 2. Furthermore, two second outlets 24d are provided in the downstream chamber R2. The two second outlets 24d are located near the two corners of the four corners of the downstream chamber R2 furthest from the first outlet 24c. According to Modification Example 4, the same effects as the first embodiment described above can be obtained. Additionally, one of the two second outlets 24d can be understood as a third outlet.

[0151] 5-5. Variation Example 5

[0152] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the downstream chamber R2, the first outlet 24c, the second outlet 24d, the third outlet 24e, and the fourth outlet 24f in Modification 5. In Modification 5, the planar shape of the downstream chamber R2 is approximately square compared to Modification 3, and these outlets are located near the four corners of the downstream chamber R2. According to Modification 5, the same effects as the first embodiment described above can be obtained. Here, in Modification 5, even in cases where it is possible to tilt around the X-axis or around the Y-axis, bubbles can be appropriately discharged from the first outlet 24c, the second outlet 24d, the third outlet 24e, or the fourth outlet 24f. Furthermore, in Modification 5, any one of the first outlet 24c, the second outlet 24d, the third outlet 24e, and the fourth outlet 24f is located near the corners of the quadrilateral sidewall 24i when viewed in plan view. Therefore, compared with structures such as those in Modifications 1 to 4, where the outlet is located near the midpoint of the sidewall 24i when viewed in a planar manner, the retention of bubbles can be appropriately prevented because the bubbles can be easily guided to any outlet regardless of the tilt.

[0153] 5-6. Variation Example 6

[0154] Although the second embodiment described above illustrates a structure in which ink from the liquid jet module 40 is directly applied to the medium 101 adsorbed on the outer peripheral surface of the roller 31, it is also possible to configure the roller 31 as a transfer body for transferring ink from the liquid jet module 40 onto the medium 101. In this case, as long as ink from the liquid jet module 40 is applied to the outer peripheral surface of the roller 31 in a state that prevents the medium 101 from adsorbing, the ink can be transferred from the outer peripheral surface of the roller 31 onto the medium 101.

[0155] 5-7. Variation Example 7

[0156] The liquid jetting apparatus 100 illustrated in the above embodiments can be used not only in printing equipment but also in various other equipment such as fax machines or photocopiers. The application of the liquid jetting apparatus of the present invention is not limited to printing. For example, a liquid jetting apparatus that jets a solution of color material can be used as a manufacturing apparatus for color filters in liquid crystal display devices. Furthermore, a liquid jetting apparatus that jets a solution of conductive material can be used as a manufacturing apparatus for wiring and electrodes in wiring boards.

[0157] Symbol Explanation

[0158] 10…Liquid jet head; 10C…Liquid jet head; 21b…Inlet; 24a…Bottom wall; 24c…First outlet; 24d…Second outlet; 24e…Third outlet; 24f…Fourth outlet; 25…Filter; 30…Conveying mechanism; 30A…Conveying mechanism; 31…Roller; 40…Liquid jet module (row head); 40B…Liquid jet module; 40C…Liquid jet module; 40_1…Liquid jet module (row head); 40_2…Liquid jet module (row head); 40_3…Liquid jet module (row head); 40_4…Liquid jet module (row head); 50…Circulation mechanism; 60…Moving mechanism; 61…Slide carriage; 100…Liquid jet device; 100A…Liquid jet device; 100B…Liquid jet… Injection device; 101…medium; AX…central axis; B…bubble; C1…first flow channel; C2…second flow channel; C3…third flow channel; C4…fourth flow channel; CC…supply flow channel (common flow channel); CI…inlet; DM…direction; DN…direction; FN…nozzle face; L1…distance; L2…distance; L3…distance; L4…distance; LS1…first straight line; LS2…second straight line; La…nozzle array; Lb…nozzle array; N…nozzle; PC…center; R1…upstream chamber; R2…downstream chamber; Ra_in…inlet; Rb_in…inlet; SF…horizontal plane; Sa…supply flow channel (common flow channel); Sb…supply flow channel (common flow channel); θ1…tilt angle; θ2…tilt angle; θ3…tilt angle; θ4…tilt angle.

Claims

1. A liquid injection head, comprising a traveling head, having: The nozzle face has multiple nozzles for spraying liquid; A filter through which liquid passes; The downstream chamber has a first outlet and a second outlet for discharging liquid, and is disposed on the downstream side relative to the filter, and a portion of the wall is formed by the filter; A first flow channel, which communicates with the downstream chamber via the first outlet; The second flow channel communicates with the downstream chamber via the second outlet. A common flow channel, which is connected to both the first and second flow channels. When viewed from a plane perpendicular to the nozzle surface, The first outlet is configured in a first direction relative to the center of the downstream chamber. The second outlet is configured in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the center of the downstream chamber. The first direction is orthogonal to the direction of the long side of the header.

2. The liquid injection head as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The areas of the first outlet and the second outlet are equal.

3. The liquid injection head as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The distance from the center of the downstream chamber to the first outlet and the distance from the center of the downstream chamber to the second outlet are equal to each other.

4. The liquid injection head as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The downstream chamber, when viewed from the plane, has the following characteristics: Between the center of the downstream chamber and the first outlet, the portion of the downstream chamber where the width narrows from the center of the downstream chamber toward the first outlet; Between the center of the downstream chamber and the second outlet, the portion of the downstream chamber where the width narrows from the center of the downstream chamber toward the second outlet.

5. The liquid injection head as claimed in claim 1, wherein, It has a bottom wall that, together with the filter, defines the downstream chamber, and the bottom wall is opposite to the filter. The first outlet is located in the bottom wall.

6. The liquid injection head as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The distance between the first outlet and the filter is longer than the distance between the bottom wall of the downstream chamber and the filter at the center when viewed from the plane.

7. The liquid injection head as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first outlet is located at the end of the downstream chamber in the first direction. The second outlet is located at the end of the downstream chamber in the second direction.

8. The liquid injection head as claimed in claim 1, wherein, It has an upstream chamber with an inlet for introducing liquid and is positioned upstream relative to the filter, with a portion of its wall formed by the filter. When viewed in the plane, the inlet is positioned between the first outlet and the second outlet.

9. The liquid injection head as claimed in claim 1, wherein, It has a third flow channel that connects the downstream chamber and the common flow channel. The downstream chamber has a third outlet for discharging liquid into the third flow channel. The third outlet, when viewed in plan, is positioned at a location that does not overlap with an imaginary straight line passing through the first and second outlets.

10. A liquid injection head, comprising: The nozzle face has multiple nozzles for spraying liquid; A filter through which liquid passes; The downstream chamber has a first outlet, a second outlet and a third outlet for discharging liquid, and is disposed on the downstream side relative to the filter, and a portion of the wall is formed by the filter; A first flow channel, which communicates with the downstream chamber via the first outlet; The second flow channel communicates with the downstream chamber via the second outlet. The third flow channel communicates with the downstream chamber via the third outlet. A common flow channel, which is connected to the first flow channel, the second flow channel, and the third flow channel. When viewed from a plane perpendicular to the nozzle surface, The first outlet is configured to be offset in a first direction relative to the center of the downstream chamber. The second outlet is configured to be offset in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, relative to the center of the downstream chamber. When the plane is observed, an imaginary straight line passing through the center of the downstream chamber and extending in the first direction is defined as the first straight line. The first outlet and the second outlet are positioned on the first straight line when viewed in the plane. The third outlet is positioned in a location that does not overlap with the first straight line.

11. The liquid injection head as claimed in claim 10, wherein, It has a fourth flow channel that connects the downstream chamber and the common flow channel. The downstream chamber has a fourth outlet for discharging liquid into the fourth flow channel. The third and fourth outlets are positioned on opposite sides of each other relative to the first straight line when viewed from the plane.

12. The liquid injection head as claimed in claim 11, wherein, When the plane is observed, an imaginary straight line passing through the center of the downstream chamber and extending upwards on a third direction orthogonal to the first direction is designated as the second straight line. The third and fourth outlets are positioned on the second straight line when viewed from the plane.

13. A liquid injection device, comprising: The liquid injection head according to any one of claims 10 to 12; A conveying mechanism that transports media.

14. A liquid injection device, comprising: The liquid injection head according to any one of claims 1 to 10; A conveying mechanism that conveys the medium in the first direction or the second direction at a position opposite to the liquid injection head.

15. The liquid injection device as claimed in claim 14, wherein, It has at least one linear head, which is formed by the liquid injection head and is elongated in a direction intersecting the first direction or the second direction.

16. The liquid injection device as claimed in claim 15, wherein, The at least one line header includes: First line header; The second row head is configured upstream or downstream of the medium transport path relative to the first row head.

17. The liquid injection device as claimed in claim 16, wherein, The first linear head is configured at an angle such that the end of the nozzle face in the first direction is positioned above the end in the second direction in the vertical direction. The second row head is configured at an angle such that the end of the nozzle surface in the first direction is located below the end in the second direction in the vertical direction.

18. The liquid injection device as claimed in claim 17, wherein, The inclination angle of the nozzle surface in the first row head relative to the horizontal plane and the inclination angle of the nozzle surface in the second row head relative to the horizontal plane are equal to each other.

19. A liquid injection device, comprising: Liquid injection head; A carriage that holds the liquid injection head and reciprocates along an axis. The liquid injection head has: The nozzle face has multiple nozzles for spraying liquid; A filter through which liquid passes; The downstream chamber has a first outlet and a second outlet for discharging liquid, and is disposed on the downstream side relative to the filter, and a portion of the wall is formed by the filter; A first flow channel, which communicates with the downstream chamber via the first outlet; The second flow channel communicates with the downstream chamber via the second outlet. A common flow channel, which is connected to both the first and second flow channels. When viewed from a plane perpendicular to the nozzle surface, The first outlet is configured to be offset in a first direction relative to the center of the downstream chamber. The second outlet is configured to be offset in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, relative to the center of the downstream chamber. The first direction is orthogonal to the extension direction of the axis. The first outlet is located above or below the second outlet in the vertical direction.

Citation Information

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