Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus

By stacking substrates in the liquid jetting device and setting bypass channels in different layers, the problem of large liquid jetting head is solved, and the compactness of the device is optimized.

CN113978122BActive Publication Date: 2026-04-24SEIKO EPSON CORP
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
SEIKO EPSON CORP
Filing Date
2021-07-22
Publication Date
2026-04-24

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing liquid injection devices, the bypass channel is formed in the same layer of the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the discharge side, which leads to the problem of the liquid injection head being larger in the direction parallel to the nozzle surface.

Method used

By stacking multiple substrates in a first direction, independent flow channels are formed in which the common liquid chambers of the supply side and the discharge side extend in the intersecting direction, and bypass flow channels are provided in different layers to connect the common liquid chambers of the supply side and the discharge side.

Benefits of technology

This effectively reduces the volume of the liquid injection head in the direction parallel to the nozzle surface, optimizes the space utilization of the device, and improves the compactness of the device.

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Abstract

The present application provides a liquid ejection head and a liquid ejection device that miniaturize the liquid ejection head in a direction parallel to a nozzle face. The liquid ejection head is configured by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: a plurality of independent flow channels that respectively communicate with a plurality of nozzles that eject liquid in the first direction; a supply-side common liquid chamber that extends in a direction intersecting the first direction, communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; a discharge-side common liquid chamber that extends in the direction intersecting the first direction, communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and flows liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; and a bypass flow channel that connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber, the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber being formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates, the bypass flow channel having a first portion formed in a different layer of the plurality of substrates from the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid 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 those used in inkjet printers, have long been known, which have liquid ejection heads that eject liquids such as ink. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a liquid ejection device that has a bypass channel connecting the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber at the ends of their long sides. This bypass channel is formed in the same layer as the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber.

[0003] However, in the liquid injection device described above, since the bypass channel is formed in the same layer as the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side, there is a problem that the liquid injection head is larger in the direction parallel to the nozzle surface.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-144430 Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the above problems, a preferred embodiment of the liquid injection head of the present invention is constructed by stacking multiple substrates in a first direction and includes: multiple independent flow channels communicating with multiple nozzles for injecting liquid in the first direction; a supply-side common liquid chamber extending in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicating with the multiple independent flow channels, supplying liquid to the multiple independent flow channels; a discharge-side common liquid chamber extending in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicating with the multiple independent flow channels, for allowing liquid discharged from the multiple independent flow channels to flow; and a bypass flow channel connecting the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber, wherein the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the multiple substrates, and the bypass flow channel has a first portion formed in a layer of the multiple substrates different from the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber.

[0006] One preferred embodiment of the liquid injection device of the present invention includes the liquid injection head described above. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the liquid injection device 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a 3D view of head module 3.

[0009] Figure 3 for Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the liquid injection head 30 shown.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a plan view of the flow channel structure 34 as viewed in the Z2 direction.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a plan view of the wiring board 35 as viewed in the Z2 direction.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a plan view of the flow distribution section 37 as viewed in the Z2 direction.

[0013] Figure 7 This is an exploded stereoscopic view of head unit 38_1.

[0014] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of line VIII-VIII in the diagram.

[0015] Figure 9 A plan view of head unit 38_1 was observed in the Z2 direction.

[0016] Figure 10 for Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the IX-IX line.

[0017] Figure 11 The image is magnified to show the region near MN1a at the V2 end.

[0018] Figure 12 The plan view and side view of wiring component 388.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the outline of the flow channel formed by the flow channel structure 34 and the flow channel distribution section 37.

[0020] Figure 14 A diagram showing the flow channels formed within the flow channel structure 34.

[0021] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the flow channel formed in the flow channel distribution section 37.

[0022] Figure 16 This is a plan view of the flow channel formed in the flow channel distribution section 37.

[0023] Figure 17 This is a three-dimensional view of the first flow channel component Du1.

[0024] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating the case where the nozzle face FN is tilted in the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 19This diagram illustrates the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 when the nozzle face FN is tilted in this embodiment.

[0026] Figure 20 This is a diagram illustrating the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 when the nozzle face FN is tilted in the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 21 This diagram illustrates the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 when the nozzle face FN is tilted in this embodiment.

[0028] Figure 22 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the liquid injection device 100A according to the second embodiment.

[0029] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the liquid injection device 100B in the third embodiment.

[0030] Figure 24 A plan view of the head element 38D was observed in the Z2 direction in the first modified example. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, in the various drawings, the dimensions and scales of the various parts are appropriately different from the actual dimensions and scales. Furthermore, although the embodiments described below are preferred examples of the present invention and are therefore subject to various technically preferred limitations, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments unless otherwise specifically stated in the following description.

[0032] 1. First Implementation Method

[0033] The liquid injection device 100 according to the first embodiment will be described below.

[0034] 1.1. Overview of the liquid injection device 100

[0035] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the liquid jetting apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. The liquid jetting apparatus 100 according to this embodiment is an inkjet printing apparatus that jets ink, as an example of a liquid, in the form of droplets onto a medium PP. The liquid jetting apparatus 100 of this embodiment is a so-called row-type printing apparatus in which a plurality of nozzles N for jetting ink are distributed across the entire width direction of the medium PP. The medium PP is, for example, printing paper, but any printing object such as resin film or fabric can be used as the medium PP.

[0036] like Figure 1As illustrated, the liquid jetting device 100 includes a liquid container 93 for storing ink. The liquid container 93 can be, for example, a detachable box relative to the liquid jetting device 100, a bag-shaped ink pouch formed of a flexible sheet, or an ink canister for refilling ink. Various inks of different colors are stored in the liquid container 93.

[0037] Although not illustrated, the liquid container 93 of this embodiment includes a first liquid container and a second liquid container. The first liquid container stores a first ink. The second liquid container stores a second ink of a different type than the first ink. 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.

[0038] like Figure 1 As illustrated, the liquid injection device 100 includes a head module 3, a control device 90, a conveying mechanism 92, and a circulation mechanism 94, wherein the head module 3 has a plurality of liquid injection heads 30.

[0039] The control device 90 includes, for example, processing circuits such as a CPU or FPGA and storage circuits such as semiconductor memory, and controls various elements of the liquid injection device 100. Here, CPU is short for Central Processing Unit, and FPGA is short for Field Programmable Gate Array.

[0040] Under the control of the control device 90, the conveying mechanism 92 conveys the medium PP along the Y1 direction. Furthermore, in the following text, the Y1 direction and the Y2 direction, which is the opposite direction to the Y1 direction, are collectively referred to as the Y-axis direction.

[0041] Under the control of the control device 90, head module 3 ejects ink supplied from liquid container 93 in the Z2 direction. The Z2 direction is orthogonal to the Y1 direction. In the following text, the Z2 direction and the Z1 direction, which is opposite to the Z2 direction, are sometimes collectively referred to as the Z-axis direction. Figure 2 The following section explains the head module 3.

[0042] 1.2. Header Module 3

[0043] Figure 2This is a perspective view of the head module 3. The head module 3 includes a plurality of liquid ejection heads 30 and a head fixing base plate 13 for holding the plurality of liquid ejection heads 30. The plurality of liquid ejection heads 30 are arranged side by side in the X1 direction and the X2 direction, which are orthogonal to the Y1 direction, which is the conveying direction, and are fixed on the head fixing base plate 13. The X2 direction is the opposite direction to the X1 direction. In the following text, the X1 direction and the X2 direction are sometimes collectively referred to as the X-axis direction. The head module 3 is a row head having a plurality of liquid ejection heads 30 arranged in such a way that the plurality of nozzles N span the entire range of the medium PP in the X-axis direction. That is, the plurality of liquid ejection heads 30 constitute a row head that is long in the X-axis direction. By performing the ejection of ink from the plurality of liquid ejection heads 30 in parallel with the conveying of the medium PP performed by the conveying mechanism 92, an image composed of ink is formed on the surface of the medium PP. Alternatively, the head module 3 can also be a long, linear head extending along the X-axis, consisting only of individual liquid injection heads 30 arranged in a manner where multiple nozzles N cover the entire range of the medium PP in the X-axis direction. The head fixing base plate 13 has multiple mounting holes 15 for mounting the liquid injection heads 30. The liquid injection heads 30 are supported by the head fixing base plate 13 in a state where they are inserted into the mounting holes 15.

[0044] Return to the instructions Figure 1 . Figure 1 The XYZ coordinate system shown is a local coordinate system representing the coordinates based on head module 3. When the orientation of head module 3 changes, the orientation of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis also changes.

[0045] The conveying mechanism 92 conveys the medium PP relative to the head module 3 in the Y-axis direction. Figure 1 In the example shown, the liquid container 93 is connected to the head module 3 via a circulation mechanism 94. The circulation mechanism 94 is a mechanism that supplies ink to multiple liquid injection heads 30 and recovers ink discharged from the multiple liquid injection heads 30 for resupply to the liquid injection heads 30. The circulation mechanism 94 includes, for example, a secondary tank for storing ink, a flow channel for supplying ink from the secondary tank to the liquid injection heads 30, a flow channel for recovering ink from the liquid injection heads 30 back to the secondary tank, and a pump for properly flowing the ink. Through the operation of the circulation mechanism 94, the increase in ink viscosity can be suppressed or the retention of air bubbles within the ink can be reduced.

[0046] like Figure 1As illustrated, the control device 90 supplies a drive signal Com for driving the liquid ejector head 30 and a control signal SI for controlling the liquid ejector head 30. Furthermore, the liquid ejector head 30 is driven by the drive signal Com under the control of the control signal SI, ejecting ink from some or all of the plurality of nozzles N provided on the liquid ejector head 30 in the Z2 direction. Regarding the nozzles N, via... Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 This will be described later.

[0047] 1.3. Liquid injection head 30

[0048] Figure 3 for Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the liquid injection head 30 shown. Figure 3 As shown, the liquid injection head 30 includes a frame 31, a cover plate 32, a collection plate 33, a flow channel structure 34, a wiring plate 35, a flow channel distribution section 37, and a fixing plate 39. Furthermore, the liquid injection head 30 includes head units 38_1, 38_2, 38_3, 38_4, 38_5, and 38_6. Unless otherwise specified, head units 38_1, 38_2, 38_3, 38_4, 38_5, and 38_6 are referred to as head unit 38. Additionally, the flow channel structure 34 includes flow channel plates Su1, Su2, and Su3, connecting pipes 341i1, 341i2, 341o1, 341o2, and a connector hole 343. The flow distribution unit 37 includes a first flow channel component Du1, a second flow channel component Du2, and connecting pipes 373i1, 373i2, 373o_1, 373o_2, 373o_3, 373o_4, 373o_5, and 373o_6. In the following description, connecting pipes 373i1, 373i2, 373o_1, 373o_2, 373o_3, 373o_4, 373o_5, and 373o_6 are collectively referred to as connecting pipes 373. The first flow channel component Du1 is one example of a "first flow channel component," and the second flow channel component Du2 is one example of a "second flow channel component."

[0049] The frame 31 supports the flow channel structure 34, the wiring board 35, the flow channel distribution section 37, and the fixing plate 39. Furthermore, the frame 31 has a supply hole 311i1, a supply hole 311i2, a discharge hole 312o1, a discharge hole 312o2, and a collection board hole 313. A connecting tube 341i1 is inserted into and fitted into the supply hole 311i1. A connecting tube 341i2 is inserted into and fitted into the supply hole 311i2. A connecting tube 341o1 is inserted into and fitted into the discharge hole 312o1. A connecting tube 341o2 is inserted into and fitted into the discharge hole 312o2. The collection board 33 is inserted into the collection board hole 313. The frame 31 is made of metal or resin. Alternatively, the frame 31 may be constructed from a component formed by covering a resin surface with a metal film.

[0050] The cover plate 32 holds the assembly plate 33 between itself and the portion of the frame 31 extending in the Z1 direction. The assembly plate 33 is a plate on which wiring for transmitting drive signals Com and control signals SI supplied from the control device 90 to the head unit 38 is formed. The assembly plate 33 is a plate-shaped component extending parallel to the XZ plane. Here, "parallel" means, in addition to the case of complete parallelism, also the case of parallelism in design but taken into account, for example, errors caused by manufacturing errors of the liquid injection head 30.

[0051] The flow channel structure 34 is a structure with internally provided flow channels for allowing ink to flow between the circulation mechanism 94 and each of the plurality of head units 38. The flow channel structure 34 is disposed between the frame 31 and the wiring substrate 35. The flow channel plates Su1, Su2, and Su3 included in the flow channel structure 34 are stacked in the Z1 direction in this order. The flow channel plates Su1, Su2, and Su3 are bonded together with each other by adhesives or the like. The flow channel plates Su1, Su2, and Su3 are formed, for example, by resin injection molding.

[0052] Figure 4 This is a plan view of the flow channel structure 34 as observed in the Z2 direction. (See attached image.) Figure 4As illustrated, in a planar view directed towards Z2, the flow channel structure 34 has an octagonal shape with rounded corners. Hereinafter, the planar view directed towards Z2 will only be referred to as "planar view." The flow channel structure 34 has sides He1, He2, He3, He4, He5, He6, He7, and He8. In planar view, the shape of the flow channel structure 34 is approximately point-symmetric about its centroid G34. Here, centroid refers to the point where, in planar view, the sum of the first moments of the shape is zero, and if it is a rectangle, it is the intersection of the diagonals.

[0053] Edge He1 is parallel to the X-axis, adjacent to edges He8 and He2, and located closest to the Y2 direction. Edge He2 is parallel to the Y-axis, adjacent to edges He1 and He3, and located closest to the X2 direction. Edge He3 is adjacent to edges He2 and He4, and is parallel to the V-axis. The V-axis is a collective term for both V1 and V2 directions. The V1 direction intersects both the X1 and Y1 directions. More specifically, the V1 direction is the direction that rotates the X1 direction clockwise by approximately 56 degrees. The V2 direction is the opposite direction of the V1 direction. Edge He4 is adjacent to edges He3 and He5, and is parallel to the Y-axis. Edge He5 is adjacent to edges He4 and He6, and is parallel to the X-axis, located closest to the Y1 direction. Edge He6 is adjacent to edges He5 and He7, and is parallel to the Y-axis, located closest to the X1 direction. Edge He7 is adjacent to edges He6 and He8, and is parallel to the V-axis. Edge He8 is adjacent to edges He7 and He1, and is parallel to the Y-axis.

[0054] Return to the instructions Figure 3 The wiring board 35 is a mounting component for electrically connecting the liquid injection head 30 to the control device 90. The wiring board 35 is a board on which wiring for transmitting various control signals and power supply voltages to the head unit 38 is formed. The wiring board 35 is a plate-shaped component extending parallel to the XY plane and is disposed between the flow channel structure 34 and the flow channel distribution section 37. The wiring board 35 is a rigid board. Figure 5 The wiring board 35 will be described in detail.

[0055] 1.3.1. Wiring board 35

[0056] Figure 5This is a plan view of the wiring board 35 as viewed in the Z2 direction. The wiring board 35 has a cutout 352_1, openings 351_2, 351_3, 351_4 and 351_5, a cutout 352_6, multiple terminals 353_1, multiple terminals 353_2, multiple terminals 353_3, multiple terminals 353_4, multiple terminals 353_5 and multiple terminals 353_6, a connector 355, openings 357_1, 357_3, 357_4 and 357_6, and cutouts 358_2 and 358_5.

[0057] Without distinguishing between openings 351_2, 351_3, 351_4, and 351_5, they are designated as opening 351. Similarly, without distinguishing between cutouts 352_1 and 352_6, they are designated as cutouts 352. Similarly, without distinguishing between multiple terminals 353_1, multiple terminals 353_2, multiple terminals 353_3, multiple terminals 353_4, multiple terminals 353_5, and multiple terminals 353_6, they are designated as terminals 353. Similarly, without distinguishing between openings 357_1, 357_3, 357_4, and 357_6, they are designated as opening 357. Similarly, without distinguishing between cutouts 358_2 and 358_5, they are designated as cutouts 358. Alternatively, the wiring board 35 may replace one or both of the cutouts 352_1 and 352_6, and have an opening 351 independent of the openings 351_2, 351_3, 351_4, and 351_5. Similarly, the wiring board 35 may replace one or both of the cutouts 358_2 and 358_5, and have an opening 357 independent of the openings 357_1, 357_3, 357_4, and 357_6.

[0058] Four openings 351 extend in the V1 direction. Furthermore, one side formed in cutout 352_1 and one side formed in cutout 352_6 extend in the V1 direction. Additionally, multiple terminals 353_1, multiple terminals 353_2, multiple terminals 353_3, multiple terminals 353_4, multiple terminals 353_5, and multiple terminals 353_6 are arranged in the V1 direction. The direction closer to the X1 direction among the two directions orthogonal to the Z1 and V1 directions is called the W1 direction. Furthermore, the direction closer to the X2 direction among the two directions orthogonal to the Z1 and V1 directions is called the W2 direction. In other words, the W1 direction is the direction that includes the components of the X1 and Y2 directions among the two directions orthogonal to the Z1 and V1 directions, and the W2 direction is the direction that includes the components of the X2 and Y1 directions among the two directions orthogonal to the Z1 and V1 directions. Moreover, the W1 and W2 directions are collectively referred to as the W-axis directions.

[0059] The wiring component 388 of the head unit 38_i (described later) is inserted through the opening 351_i. i is an integer from 2 to 5. One side of the cutout 352_j extending in the V1 direction engages with the wiring component 388 of the head unit 38_j. j is 1 or 6. A plurality of input terminals 3886, provided at the input terminal section 3882 of the wiring component 388 of the head unit 38_k, contact a plurality of terminals 353_k. k is an integer from 1 to 6. Furthermore, regarding the input terminal section 3882 and the plurality of input terminals 3886, via... Figure 12 This will be described later.

[0060] like Figure 5 As illustrated, the four openings 351 and the two cutouts 352 are arranged in an alternating pattern. More specifically, the six openings 351 are arranged as follows: the side of the cutout 352_1 extending in the V1 direction, the openings 351_2, 351_3, 351_4, 351_5, and the side of the cutout 352_6 extending in the V1 direction are arranged sequentially in the W-axis direction.

[0061] Connecting tube 373o_i is inserted into opening 357_i. i is 1, 3, 4, and 6. Connecting tube 373o_j is fitted into cutout 358_j. j is 2 and 5. Cutout 358_2 is located in the V1 direction relative to cutout 352_1. Opening 357_k is located in the V1 direction relative to opening 351_k-1. k is 4 and 6. Opening 357_m is located in the V2 direction relative to opening 351_m+1. m is 1 and 3. Cutout 358_5 is located in the V2 direction relative to cutout 352_6.

[0062] 1.3.2. Flow distribution section 37

[0063] Return to the instructions Figure 3 The flow distribution section 37 is disposed between the wiring substrate 35 and the fixing plate 39, and is fixed relative to the fixing plate 39 by an adhesive. Therefore, the flow distribution section 37 reinforces the fixing plate 39. The flow distribution section 37 is made of, for example, resin or metal. From the aforementioned point of view of reinforcement, it is preferable that the thickness of the flow distribution section 37 is greater than the thickness of the fixing plate 39.

[0064] Figure 6 This is a plan view of the flow channel distribution section 37 viewed in the Z2 direction. The first flow channel component Du1 and the second flow channel component Du2 included in the flow channel distribution section 37 are stacked in the Z1 direction in this order. Eight connecting pipes 373 are provided on the Z1-direction side surface of the flow channel distribution section 37. The eight connecting pipes 373 are flow channel pipes protruding in the Z1 direction from the Z1-direction side surface of the second flow channel component Du2.

[0065] The flow distribution section 37 has a plurality of openings 371_1, 371_2, 371_3, 371_4, 371_5, and 371_6 extending through in the Z-axis direction. Unless otherwise specified, these openings 371_1 to 371_6 are referred to as openings 371. Wiring components 388 of each of the plurality of head units 38 are inserted through the six openings 371. The arrangement of the six openings 371 is also staggered, similar to the arrangement of the openings 351 on the wiring board 35.

[0066] Opening 371 is a longer opening in the V-axis direction compared to opening 351 of wiring board 35. Specifically, opening 371_1 communicates with cutout 352_1 of wiring board 35 and, when viewed in a plane in the Z2 direction, extends further in the V2 direction than the side of cutout 352_1 extending in the V1 direction. Opening 371_2 communicates with opening 351_2 of wiring board 35 and, when viewed in a plane, extends further in the V1 direction than opening 351_2. Opening 371_3 communicates with opening 351_3 of wiring board 35 and, when viewed in a plane, extends further in the V2 direction than opening 351_3. Opening 371_4 communicates with opening 351_4 of wiring board 35 and, when viewed in a plane, extends further in the V1 direction than opening 351_4. The opening 371_5 communicates with the opening 351_5 of the wiring board 35, and extends further in the V2 direction than the opening 351_5 when viewed in a planar view. The opening 371_6 communicates with the cutout 352_6 of the wiring board 35, and extends further in the V1 direction than the cutout 352_6 when viewed in a planar view.

[0067] Connecting pipe 373i1 is disposed at the corners of the flow distribution section 37 in the X1 and Y2 directions. Connecting pipe 373i2 is disposed at the corners of the flow distribution section 37 in the X2 and Y1 directions. Connecting pipe 373o_n is disposed in the V1 direction relative to opening 371_n-1. n is 2, 4, or 6. Connecting pipe 373o_p is disposed in the V2 direction relative to opening 371_p+1. p is 1, 3, or 5.

[0068] Connecting pipe 373i1 communicates with outlet CE1 formed on the Z2 direction surface of flow channel structure 34, and introduces ink from flow channel structure 34 into flow channel distribution section 37. Similarly, connecting pipe 373i2 communicates with outlet CE2 formed on the Z2 direction surface of flow channel structure 34, and introduces ink from flow channel structure 34 into flow channel distribution section 37. Furthermore, flow channel distribution section 37 has flow channels for distributing ink supplied from flow channel structure 34 to each head unit 38. Moreover, flow channel distribution section 37 has flow channels for ink discharged from each head unit 38 to flow. Connecting pipes 373o_1 to 373o_6 communicate with any one of inlet ports CI1_1, CI1_3, CI1_5, CI2_2, CI2_4, and CI2_6 formed on the Z2 direction surface of flow channel structure 34, and introduce ink from flow channel distribution section 37 into flow channel structure 34. Regarding the discharge outlets CE1 and CE2, and the inlets CI1_1, CI1_3, CI1_5, CI2_2, CI2_4, and CI2_6, through... Figure 13 as well as Figure 14 This will be described later.

[0069] Return to the instructions Figure 3 The head unit 38 has M nozzles N. M is an integer greater than or equal to 2. The arrangement of the six head units 38 is also staggered, similar to the opening 351 of the wiring board 35. Utilizing... Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 The head unit 38_1 will be described.

[0070] 1.3.3. Head Unit 38

[0071] Figure 7 This is an exploded stereoscopic view of head unit 38_1. Figure 8 for Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of line VIII-VIII. Line VIII-VIII is an imaginary line segment that passes through inlet 3851 and outlet 3852 and through nozzle N. Additionally, in Figure 8 In the figure shown, in addition to the cross-section of the head unit 38_1, the cross-section of the fixing plate 39 is also shown.

[0072] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As illustrated, the head unit 38_1 includes: a nozzle plate 387, a malleable substrate 3861, a connecting plate 382, ​​a pressure chamber substrate 383, a vibrating plate 384, a housing 385, and a wiring component 388.

[0073] like Figure 7 As illustrated, the nozzle plate 387 is a plate-shaped component that is elongated in the V-axis direction and extends parallel to the VW plane, and has M nozzles N formed thereon. The nozzle plate 387 can be manufactured, for example, by processing a single-crystal silicon substrate using semiconductor manufacturing techniques such as etching. However, any known materials and manufacturing methods can be used in the manufacture of the nozzle plate 387. Furthermore, the nozzles N are through holes provided on the nozzle plate 387. In this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that M nozzles N are provided on the nozzle plate 387 in such a way that a nozzle array Ln extending in the V-axis direction is formed. However, the nozzle plate 387 may also have a structure in which a portion of the M nozzles N are arranged in the V-axis direction to form a nozzle array Ln with multiple rows.

[0074] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As illustrated, a connecting plate 382 is provided in the Z1 direction of the nozzle plate 387. The connecting plate 382 is a plate-shaped component that is elongated in the V-axis direction and extends substantially parallel to the VW plane, and forms ink flow channels.

[0075] Specifically, a supply liquid chamber RA1 and a discharge liquid chamber RA2 are formed in the connecting plate 382. The supply liquid chamber RA1 is configured to communicate with the supply liquid chamber RB1 (described later) and extend in the V-axis direction. Similarly, the discharge liquid chamber RA2 is configured to communicate with the discharge liquid chamber RB2 (described later) and extend in the V-axis direction. Furthermore, the supply liquid chamber RA1 may be divided into multiple parts in the V-axis direction, and similarly, the discharge liquid chamber RA2 may also be divided into multiple parts in the V-axis direction. Hereinafter, the common liquid chamber formed by the supply liquid chamber RA1 and the supply liquid chamber RB1 will be referred to as the "supply-side common liquid chamber MN1". Likewise, the common liquid chamber formed by the discharge liquid chamber RA2 and the discharge liquid chamber RB2 will be referred to as the "discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2".

[0076] Furthermore, the connecting plate 382 contains M nozzle channels RN, RR1, RR2, RK1, RK2, RX1, and RX2, each corresponding to one of the M nozzles N. Alternatively, the connecting plate 382 may also contain a single connecting channel RX1 and a connecting channel RX2 shared by the M nozzles N. In this case, the connecting channel RX1 forms part of the "supply-side common liquid chamber MN1," and the connecting channel RX2 forms part of the "discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2." In addition, multiple connecting channels RX1 can be formed that are shared with a portion of the M nozzles N, and multiple connecting channels RX2 can be formed that are shared with a portion of the M nozzles N.

[0077] like Figure 8 As illustrated, in this embodiment, the connecting channel RX1 is configured to communicate with the supply liquid chamber RA1 and extend along the W-axis in the W2 direction when viewed from the supply liquid chamber RA1. Furthermore, the connecting channel RK1 is configured to communicate with the connecting channel RX1 and extend along the Z-axis in the W2 direction when viewed from the connecting channel RX1. Additionally, the connecting channel RR1 is configured to extend along the Z-axis in the W2 direction when viewed from the connecting channel RK1.

[0078] Furthermore, the connecting channel RX2 is configured to communicate with the discharge chamber RA2 and extend along the W-axis in the W1 direction when viewed from the discharge chamber RA2. Similarly, the connecting channel RK2 is configured to communicate with the connecting channel RX2 and extend along the Z-axis in the W1 direction when viewed from the connecting channel RX2. Finally, the connecting channel RR2 is configured to extend in the W1 direction when viewed from the connecting channel RK2 and along the Z-axis in the W2 direction when viewed from the connecting channel RR1.

[0079] Furthermore, the nozzle channel RN is configured to communicate with both the connecting channels RR1 and RR2, and extend along the W-axis in the W2 direction when viewed from the connecting channel RR1 and in the W1 direction when viewed from the connecting channel RR2. The nozzle channel RN is also connected to the nozzle N corresponding to it.

[0080] Furthermore, the connecting plate 382 is manufactured, for example, by processing a single-crystal silicon substrate using semiconductor manufacturing technology. However, known materials and manufacturing methods can be used arbitrarily in the manufacture of the connecting plate 382.

[0081] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As illustrated, a pressure chamber substrate 383 is provided in the Z1 direction of the connecting plate 382. The pressure chamber substrate 383 is a plate-shaped component that is elongated in the V-axis direction and extends substantially parallel to the VW plane, and has ink flow channels formed therein.

[0082] Specifically, in the pressure chamber substrate 383, M pressure chambers CB1 corresponding to M nozzles N and M pressure chambers CB2 corresponding to M nozzles N are formed. Hereinafter, pressure chambers CB1 and CB2 are collectively referred to as pressure chambers CB. Pressure chamber CB1 is configured to communicate with both the connecting flow channel RK1 and the connecting flow channel RR1, such that, when viewed in the Z-axis direction, the end of the connecting flow channel RK1 in the W1 direction and the end of the connecting flow channel RR1 in the W2 direction are connected, and it extends in the W-axis direction. Similarly, pressure chamber CB2 is configured to communicate with both the connecting flow channel RK2 and the connecting flow channel RR2, such that, when viewed in the Z-axis direction, the end of the connecting flow channel RK2 in the W2 direction and the end of the connecting flow channel RR2 in the W1 direction are connected, and it extends in the W-axis direction. Alternatively, the number of pressure chambers CB provided corresponding to a nozzle N can also be one; in other words, it can be a structure in which either pressure chamber CB1 or pressure chamber CB2 is provided relative to a nozzle N.

[0083] Furthermore, the pressure chamber substrate 383 can be manufactured, for example, by processing a single-crystal silicon substrate using semiconductor manufacturing technology. However, in the manufacture of the pressure chamber substrate 383, any known materials and manufacturing methods can be used.

[0084] In addition, in the following text, the ink flow path that connects the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1, the nozzle N, and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 is referred to as "independent flow path RJ", and the ink flow path that connects the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 but is not connected to the nozzle N is referred to as "bypass flow path BP".

[0085] Figure 9 A plan view of head unit 38_1 was observed in the Z2 direction. Figure 9 The diagram shows the wiring component 388 with a single-dotted line to represent the positional relationship between the bypass channel BP and the wiring component 388. Figure 10 for Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of line IX-IX. Line IX-IX is an imaginary line segment passing through bypass port 3853a, inlet port 3851, and bypass port 3853c, which are located in both the W1 and V1 directions. Figure 10 In the figure shown, in addition to the cross-section of the head unit 38_1, the cross-sections of the flow channel distribution section 37 and the fixing plate 39 are also shown.

[0086] like Figure 9 As illustrated, the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 are connected by M independent flow channels RJ corresponding one-to-one with M nozzles N. As described above, each independent flow channel RJ includes: a connecting flow channel RX1 connected to the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1, a connecting flow channel RK1 connected to the connecting flow channel RX1, a pressure chamber CB1 connected to the connecting flow channel RK1, a connecting flow channel RR1 connected to the pressure chamber CB1, a nozzle flow channel RN connected to the connecting flow channel RR1, a connecting flow channel RR2 connected to the nozzle flow channel RN, a pressure chamber CB2 connected to the connecting flow channel RR2, a connecting flow channel RK2 connected to the pressure chamber CB2, and a connecting flow channel RX2 connecting the connecting flow channel RK2 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2.

[0087] like Figure 9 as well as Figure 10As illustrated, the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 are connected by a first bypass channel BP1 and a second bypass channel BP2. The first bypass channel BP1 and the second bypass channel BP2 are collectively referred to as bypass channels BP. Furthermore, the first bypass channel BP1 corresponding to the head unit 38_k is sometimes referred to as the first bypass channel BP1_k. Similarly, the second bypass channel BP2 corresponding to the head unit 38_k is sometimes referred to as the second bypass channel BP2_k. k is an integer from 1 to 6.

[0088] like Figure 9 As illustrated, the first bypass channel BP1 has a supply-side vertical portion BP1VS, a bypass horizontal portion BP1H, and a discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD. The supply-side vertical portion BP1VS extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 at its Z2 end and with the bypass horizontal portion BP1H at its Z1 end. Furthermore, the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is an example of a "first vertical portion." The bypass horizontal portion BP1H is an example of a "first portion."

[0089] like Figure 10 As illustrated, the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is defined by the first flow channel component Du1 and the housing 385. The supply-side vertical portion BP1VS has vertical portions BP1VSa, BP1VSb, and BP1VSc. Vertical portions BP1VSa and BP1VSb are defined by the first flow channel component Du1. Vertical portion BP1VSc is defined by the housing 385. Figure 10 As illustrated, the cross-sectional area of ​​the vertical portion BP1VSa is smaller than that of the vertical portion BP1VSb. The cross-sectional area of ​​the vertical portion BP1VSb is approximately the same as that of the vertical portion BP1VSc. The cross-sectional area of ​​the flow channel refers to the area of ​​the cross-section obtained by cutting with a plane intersecting the direction of the flow channel's extension, typically orthogonal to the plane. Correspondingly, as the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow channel decreases, the flow resistance increases. Therefore, the average flow resistance per unit length of the vertical portions BP1VSa and BP1VSb is greater than that of the vertical portion BP1VSc. Furthermore, the average flow resistance per unit length of the supply-side vertical portions BP1VS and BP2VS is larger than that of the bypass horizontal portion BP1H.

[0090] The bypass horizontal section BP1H is arranged approximately parallel to the VW plane. The bypass horizontal section BP1H has a straight section BP1Ha, a bent section BP1Hb, a straight section BP1Hc, a bent section BP1Hd, and a straight section BP1He. The bent sections BP1Hb and BP1Hd are bent to bypass the wiring component 388. The straight section BP1Ha extends along the V-axis direction and communicates with the supply-side vertical section BP1VS at its end in the V1 direction and with the bent section BP1Hb at its end in the V2 direction. The bent section BP1Hb is bent 90 degrees in a manner that protrudes towards the Wa2 direction and communicates with the straight section BP1Ha at its end in the V1 direction and with the straight section BP1Hc at its end in the W2 direction. The Wa2 direction is a direction in which the W1 direction is rotated 45 degrees counterclockwise. The Wa2 direction and the Wa1 direction, which is the opposite direction to the Wa2 direction, are collectively referred to as the Wa-axis direction. The straight section BP1Hc extends along the W-axis direction and connects with the curved section BP1Hb at its end in the W1 direction, and with the curved section BP1Hd at its end in the W2 direction. The curved section BP1Hd bends 90 degrees in a manner that bulges towards the Va2 direction, and connects with the straight section BP1Hc at its end in the W1 direction, and with the straight section BP1He at its end in the V1 direction. The Va2 direction is the direction in which the V2 direction is rotated 45 degrees counterclockwise. The Va2 direction and the opposite direction, Va1 direction, are collectively referred to as the Va-axis direction. The straight section BP1He extends along the V-axis direction and connects with the curved section BP1Hd at its end in the V2 direction, and with the discharge-side vertical section BP1VD at its end in the V1 direction.

[0091] The discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 at its Z2-direction end and with the straight portion BP1He at its Z1-direction end. Although not shown in the figure, similar to the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS, the discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD is defined by the first flow channel member Du1 and the housing 385. The discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD has a portion defined by the first flow channel member Du1 and a portion defined by the housing 385. In the portion of the discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD defined by the first flow channel member Du1, similar to the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS, there is a section where the cross-sectional area changes. The cross-sectional area at the Z1-direction end of the discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD is smaller than the cross-sectional area at the Z2-direction end.

[0092] like Figure 9As illustrated, the second bypass channel BP2 has a supply-side vertical portion BP2VS, a bypass horizontal portion BP2H, and a discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD. The supply-side vertical portion BP2VS extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 at its Z2 end and with the bypass horizontal portion BP2H at its Z1 end.

[0093] The supply-side vertical section BP2VS is an example of a "second vertical section". The bypass horizontal section BP2H is an example of a "first section". Furthermore, the bypass horizontal sections BP1H and BP2H are collectively referred to as the bypass horizontal section BPH. Additionally, the bypass horizontal sections BP1H and BP2H corresponding to the head unit 38_k are sometimes referred to as bypass horizontal section BP1H_k and bypass horizontal section BP2H_k, respectively. k is an integer from 1 to 6.

[0094] like Figure 10 As illustrated, the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS is defined by the first flow channel component Du1 and the housing 385. The supply-side vertical portion BP2VS has vertical portions BP2VSa, BP2VSb, and BP2VSc. Vertical portions BP2VSa and BP2VSb are defined by the first flow channel component Du1. Vertical portion BP2VSc is defined by the housing 385. Figure 10 As illustrated, the cross-sectional area of ​​the vertical portion BP2VSa is smaller than that of the vertical portion BP2VSb. The cross-sectional areas of the vertical portions BP2VSb and BP2VSc are approximately the same.

[0095] The bypass horizontal section BP2H is arranged approximately parallel to the VW plane. The bypass horizontal section BP2H includes a straight section BP2Ha, a curved section BP2Hb, a straight section BP2Hc, a curved section BP2Hd, and a straight section BP2He. The straight section BP2Ha extends along the V-axis direction and communicates with the supply-side vertical section BP2VS at its end in the V2 direction, and with the curved section BP2Hb at its end in the V1 direction. The curved section BP2Hb is bent at 90 degrees, bulging towards the Va1 direction, and communicates with the straight section BP2Ha at its end in the V2 direction, and with the straight section BP2Hc at its end in the W2 direction. The straight section BP2Hc extends along the W-axis direction and communicates with the curved section BP2Hb at its end in the W1 direction, and with the curved section BP2Hd at its end in the W2 direction. The curved portion BP2Hd is bent at 90 degrees in a manner that protrudes towards the Wa1 direction, and communicates with the straight portion BP2Hc at its end in the W1 direction, and with the straight portion BP2He at its end in the V2 direction. The straight portion BP2He extends along the V-axis direction, and communicates with the curved portion BP2Hd at its end in the V1 direction, and with the discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD at its end in the V2 direction.

[0096] Moreover, such as Figure 10 As illustrated, the bypass horizontal portion BP2H has a portion BP2H1 that does not overlap with the outer casing 385 when viewed in a planar view. On the other hand, the bypass horizontal portion BP1H as a whole overlaps with the outer casing 385 when viewed in a planar view.

[0097] In addition, such as Figure 10 As illustrated, the total length Ld of the vertical portions BP1VSa and BP1VSb in the Z1 direction is longer than the length Lc of the vertical portion BP1VSc in the Z1 direction. Similarly, the total length Ld of the vertical portions BP2VSa and BP2VSb in the Z1 direction is longer than the length Lc of the vertical portion BP2VSc in the Z1 direction.

[0098] Although not illustrated, similar to the supply-side vertical portions BP1VS and BP2VS, the length in the Z1 direction of the portion of the discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD defined by the first flow channel component Du1 is longer than the length in the Z1 direction of the portion of the discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD defined by the housing 385, and the length in the Z1 direction of the portion of the discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD defined by the first flow channel component Du1 is longer than the length in the Z1 direction of the portion of the discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD defined by the housing 385.

[0099] like Figure 9 as well as Figure 10As illustrated, the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 is connected to the inlet channel SPV. The inlet channel SPV is connected to the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 in the V-axis direction between the first bypass channel BP1 and the second bypass channel BP2. Similarly, the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 is connected to the outlet channel DSV. The outlet channel DSV is connected to the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 in the V-axis direction between the first bypass channel BP1 and the second bypass channel BP2. In plan view, the inlet channel SPV is located at the midpoint between the V1 and V2 ends of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1. Similarly, in plan view, the outlet channel DSV is located at the midpoint between the V1 and V2 ends of the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2. That is, in the V-axis direction, the distance from the end of the common liquid chamber MN1 in the V1 direction to the inlet channel SPV is the same as the distance from the inlet channel SPV to the end of the common liquid chamber MN1 in the V2 direction, which is distance D1. Similarly, in the V-axis direction, the distance from the end of the common liquid chamber MN2 in the V1 direction to the outlet channel DSV is the same as the distance from the outlet channel DSV to the end of the common liquid chamber MN2 in the V2 direction, which is distance D1.

[0100] Hereinafter, the inlet channel SPV corresponding to the head unit 38_k will sometimes be referred to as the inlet channel SPV_k. Similarly, the outlet channel DSV corresponding to the head unit 38_k will sometimes be referred to as the outlet channel DSV_k.

[0101] like Figure 10 As illustrated, from the end of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 in the V2 direction to the side of the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS in the V2 direction, the length in the Z-axis direction of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 decreases monotonically, corresponding to the position on the V-axis moving closer to the V2 direction. Furthermore, from the end of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 in the V1 direction to the side of the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS in the V1 direction, the length in the Z-axis direction decreases monotonically, corresponding to the position on the V-axis moving closer to the V1 direction. Although not shown, from the end of the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 in the V2 direction to the side of the discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD in the V2 direction, the length in the Z-axis direction of the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 decreases monotonically, corresponding to the position on the V-axis moving closer to the V2 direction. Additionally, from the end of the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 in the V1 direction to the side of the discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD in the V1 direction, the length in the Z-axis direction decreases monotonically, corresponding to the position on the V-axis moving closer to the V1 direction.

[0102] like Figure 10As illustrated, the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 has a V2 end region MN1a, a V2 connecting region MN1b, a distribution region MN1c, a V1 connecting region MN1d, and a V1 end region MN1e. Furthermore, the V2 end region MN1a is an example of a "second region," and the V2 connecting region MN1b is an example of a "first region."

[0103] The V2 end region MN1a is the region in the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side that is located in the V2 direction compared to the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side. More specifically, "located in the V2 direction compared to the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side" means that it is located in the V2 direction compared to the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side. In other words, the V2 end region MN1a is the region located in the V2 direction among the two regions obtained by dividing the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side through the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side in the V2 direction.

[0104] The V2 connected region MN1b is the region within the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side, located from the inlet channel SPV to the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side. More specifically, "located from the inlet channel SPV to the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side" means located in the V2 direction compared to the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the inlet channel SPV in the V2 direction, and located in the V1 direction compared to the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side in the V2 direction. That is, the V2 connected region MN1b is the overlapping region of two areas: the region located in the V2 direction among the two regions divided by the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the inlet channel SPV in the V2 direction, and the region located in the V1 direction among the two regions divided by the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side in the V2 direction.

[0105] The distribution area MN1c is the region in the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side that is located in the V1 direction compared to the WZ plane that connects with the wall of the inlet channel SPV in the V2 direction, and located in the V2 direction compared to the WZ plane that connects with the wall of the inlet channel SPV in the V1 direction.

[0106] The V1 connected region MN1d is the region within the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side, located from the inlet channel SPV to the vertical portion BP2VS on the supply side. More specifically, "located from the inlet channel SPV to the vertical portion BP2VS on the supply side" means located in the V1 direction compared to the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the inlet channel SPV in the V1 direction, and located in the V2 direction compared to the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the vertical portion BP2VS on the supply side in the V1 direction. That is, the V1 connected region MN1d is the overlapping region of two areas: the region located in the V1 direction among the two regions divided by the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the inlet channel SPV in the V1 direction, and the region located in the V2 direction among the two regions divided by the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the vertical portion BP2VS on the supply side in the V1 direction.

[0107] The V1 end region MN1e is the region in the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side that lies in the V1 direction compared to the vertical portion BP2VS on the supply side. More specifically, "lying in the V1 direction compared to the vertical portion BP2VS on the supply side" means lying in the V1 direction compared to the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the vertical portion BP2VS on the supply side. In other words, the V1 end region MN1e is the region in the V1 direction among the two regions obtained by dividing the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side by the WZ plane that connects to the wall of the vertical portion BP2VS on the supply side in the V1 direction. Using... Figure 11 The V2 end region MN1a will be explained.

[0108] Figure 11 This is a magnified view of the region near MN1a at the end of V2. Figure 11 The diagram shows the area near the V2 end region MN1a when the nozzle face FN is tilted 60 degrees relative to the horizontal plane SF. When the head module 3 is used in an tilted manner, the tilt angle of the nozzle face FN is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. Figure 11 As illustrated, relative to the surface MN1bS of the connected region MN1b of V2, the surface MN1aS of the end region MN1a of V2 is positioned in the Z2 direction. Here, surface MN1aS is the surface in the Z1 direction of the end region MN1a of V2. A surface in the Z1 direction includes not only the case where the normal direction of the surface is the Z1 direction, but also the case where, when the normal direction of the surface is decomposed into the Z-axis direction, V-axis direction, and W-axis direction, the decomposed V-axis direction is the V1 direction. Furthermore, in Figure 11In the figure, the nozzle plate 387 is shown in dashed lines, and the fixed plate 39 and the support plate 3861b of the plastic substrate 3861 are omitted.

[0109] like Figure 11 As illustrated, the position of the end of the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side in the Z2 direction coincides with the position of the surface in the Z1 direction of the V2 connected region MN1b.

[0110] like Figure 11 As illustrated, the Z1 direction surface of the V2 end region MN1a is formed by the surface of the outer shell 385 and the surface of the connecting plate 382. The Z1 direction surface of the outer shell 385 in the V2 end region MN1a is a conical surface. The Z1 direction surface of the connecting plate 382 in the V2 end region MN1a is parallel to the VW plane. The V2 direction end of the Z1 direction surface of the outer shell 385 in the V2 end region MN1a is located in the Z1 direction compared to the V1 direction end of the Z1 direction surface of the connecting plate 382 in the V2 end region MN1a. The V2 end region MN1a has a portion whose dimension in the Z-axis direction is less than half the maximum dimension in the Z-axis direction of the V2 connecting region MN1b. Figure 11 In the example, in the V-axis direction, the dimension MN1aC of the V2 end region MN1a located at the midpoint between the V2 direction position on the wall of the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side and the V2 direction end position of the V2 end region MN1a is less than half of the maximum dimension in the Z-axis direction of the V2 connected region MN1b. Furthermore, the dimension in the Z-axis direction is the length in the Z-axis direction.

[0111] When viewed in a planar orientation towards W2, the shape of the V1 end region MN1e is approximately linearly symmetrical to the shape of the V2 end region MN1a about the center of the inlet channel SPV. Specifically, the Z1 direction surface of the V1 end region MN1e is formed by the surface of the outer shell 385 and the surface of the connecting plate 382. The Z1 direction surface of the outer shell 385 in the V1 end region MN1e is a conical surface. The Z1 direction surface of the connecting plate 382 in the V1 end region MN1e is parallel to the VW plane. The V1 direction end of the Z1 direction surface of the outer shell 385 in the V1 end region MN1e is located in the Z1 direction compared to the V2 direction end of the Z1 direction surface of the connecting plate 382 in the V1 end region MN1e.

[0112] Return to the instructions Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 .like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8As illustrated, a vibrating plate 384 is provided in the Z1 direction of the pressure chamber substrate 383. The vibrating plate 384 is a plate-shaped component that is elongated in the V-axis direction and extends substantially parallel to the VW plane, and is capable of elastic vibration. Alternatively, the vibrating plate 384 may be formed from the same component as the pressure chamber substrate 383.

[0113] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As illustrated, on the Z1 direction surface of the vibrating plate 384, there are M piezoelectric elements PZ1 corresponding to M pressure chambers CB1 and M piezoelectric elements PZ2 corresponding to M pressure chambers CB2. In the following text, piezoelectric elements PZ1 and PZ2 are collectively referred to as piezoelectric element PZq. Piezoelectric element PZq is a passive element that deforms in response to the potential change of the driving signal Com.

[0114] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As illustrated, a wiring component 388 is mounted on the Z1 direction surface of the vibrating plate 384. (Using...) Figure 12 The wiring component 388 will be described in detail.

[0115] Figure 12 The diagram shows a plan view and a side view of the wiring component 388. The wiring component 388 is configured to include a flexible substrate 3880 and a plurality of wirings formed on a wiring forming surface 3887 of the substrate 3880. The wiring component 388 may be, for example, a COF substrate (Chip on Film) or an FPC substrate (Flexible Printed Circuits). In this embodiment, a COF substrate is used. Figure 12 The illustrated wiring component 388 is in a state where no external force is applied to the wiring component 388. On the wiring forming surface 3887, wiring for transmitting control signals and power supply voltage supplied from the wiring substrate 35 to the head unit 38 is formed.

[0116] The wiring component 388 includes an output terminal section 3881, an input terminal section 3882, and a relay section 3883. For example... Figure 8 As illustrated, the output terminal section 3881 and the input terminal section 3882 are located at both ends of the wiring component 388. That is, the relay section 3883 is located in the wiring component 388, between the output terminal section 3881 and the input terminal section 3882. Figure 8 The diagram shows the boundary L1 of the output terminal section 3881 and the relay section 3883, and the boundary L2 of the input terminal section 3882 and the relay section 3883.

[0117] like Figure 12As illustrated, the width Wi2 of the input terminal section 3882 is smaller than the width Wi1 of the output terminal section 3881. Moreover, the width Wi2 is greater than half of the width Wi1.

[0118] Moreover, such as Figure 7 as well as Figure 12 As illustrated, the wiring component 388 has an input terminal portion 3882 that is positioned on one side relative to the overall width of the wiring component 388. Specifically, in Figure 12 In the example, the input terminal section 3882 is located on the right side. More specifically, although the right end of the input terminal section 3882 overlaps with the right end of the output terminal section 3881 when viewed from above the wiring component 388, the left end of the input terminal section 3882 is located on the right side compared to the left end of the output terminal section 3881.

[0119] like Figure 12 As illustrated, a plurality of output terminals 3885 electrically connected to each piezoelectric element PZq are formed on the wiring forming surface 3887 of the output terminal section 3881, and a plurality of input terminals 3886 electrically connected to the wiring substrate 35 are formed on the wiring forming surface 3887 of the input terminal section 3882. Furthermore, a drive circuit 3884 is mounted on the relay section 3883. The drive circuit 3884 generates a drive signal Com for each piezoelectric element PZq using a control signal SI supplied from the wiring substrate 35 and a power supply voltage. The drive signal Com generated by the drive circuit 3884 is supplied to the head unit 38 via the output terminals 3885. The drive circuit 3884 is a circuit that switches whether a drive signal Com is supplied to the piezoelectric element PZq under the control of the control signal SI. The drive circuit 3884 supplies the drive signal Com to the upper electrode of the piezoelectric element PZq.

[0120] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As illustrated, in the wiring component 388, the output terminal portion 3881 is bent at boundary L1 relative to the relay portion 3883, and the input terminal portion 3882 is bent at boundary L2 relative to the relay portion 3883. Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As illustrated, the wiring component 388 extends substantially parallel to the VZ plane. More specifically, the wiring component 388 extends from the vibrating plate 384 toward the wiring substrate 35 in an inclined state relative to the normal of the vibrating plate 384.

[0121] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8As illustrated, a housing 385 is provided in the Z1 direction of the connecting plate 382. The housing 385 is an elongated component in the V-axis direction and has ink flow channels formed therein. Specifically, a supply chamber RB1 and a discharge chamber RB2 are formed in the housing 385. The supply chamber RB1 is configured to communicate with the supply chamber RA1 and extend in the Z1 direction along the V-axis direction when viewed from the supply chamber RA1. Furthermore, the discharge chamber RB2 is configured to communicate with the discharge chamber RA2 and extend in the Z1 direction when viewed from the discharge chamber RA2 and in the W2 direction along the V-axis direction when viewed from the supply chamber RB1.

[0122] Furthermore, the outer casing 385 is provided with an inlet 3851 communicating with the supply liquid chamber RB1, an outlet 3852 communicating with the discharge liquid chamber RB2, and bypass ports 3853a, 3853b, 3853c, and 3853d. In the supply liquid chamber RB1, ink is supplied from the liquid container 93 to the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 via the inlet 3851. The ink supplied to the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 is stored in the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 via any one of the following: an independent flow channel RJ, a first bypass flow channel BP1 via bypass ports 3853a and 3853b, or a second bypass flow channel BP2 via bypass ports 3853c and 3853d. The ink stored in the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 is recovered via the outlet 3852.

[0123] Furthermore, an opening 3850 is provided on the housing 385. Inside the opening 3850, a pressure chamber base plate 383, a vibrating plate 384, and a wiring component 388 are provided. The housing 385 is formed, for example, by injection molding of a resin material. However, known materials and manufacturing methods can be used arbitrarily in the manufacture of the housing 385.

[0124] Return to the instructions Figure 3 Although in Figures 7-11The head unit 38_1 has been described, but the structures of head units 38_2 to 38_6 are the same as those of head unit 38_1. However, the wiring components 388 of head units 38_1, 38_3, and 38_5 are arranged with the input terminal portion 3882 facing towards the V1 direction. On the other hand, the wiring components 388 of head units 38_2, 38_4, and 38_6 are arranged with the input terminal portion 3882 facing towards the V2 direction. The wiring components 388 of each of head units 38_1 to 38_6 have exactly the same shape. The wiring components 388 of head units 38_2, 38_4, and 38_6 are arranged with an orientation that is 180 degrees rotated from the orientation of the wiring component 388 of head unit 38_1 to the Z-axis. The wiring components 388 of head unit 38_1 and head unit 38_2 are arranged in a point-symmetric manner. The wiring components 388 of head unit 38_3 and head unit 38_4 are also arranged in a point-symmetric manner. The wiring components 388 of head unit 38_5 and head unit 38_6 are also arranged in a point-symmetric manner.

[0125] The fixing plate 39 is bonded to the Z2 direction surface of the malleable substrate 3861 and the Z2 direction surface of the first flow channel component Du1. That is, six exposed openings 391 provided on the fixing plate 39 expose the nozzle surface FN of the nozzle plate 387 within the exposed openings 391. The nozzle surface FN is a surface of the nozzle plate 387 that is formed with a plurality of nozzles N and faces the Z2 direction and is perpendicular to the Z2 direction. The arrangement of each of the six exposed openings 391 is also staggered with the openings 351 and cutouts 352 of the wiring substrate 35.

[0126] like Figure 8As shown, the plastic substrate 3861 has a flexible membrane 3861a and a support plate 3861b. The flexible membrane 3861a is a flexible component and can be, for example, a sheet made of resin such as PPS. The support plate 3861b is a rigid component and can be, for example, stainless steel. The flexible membrane 3861a is a component that, by being fixed to the surface of the connecting plate 382 in the Z2 direction, covers the openings of the connecting plate 382 that define the supply liquid chamber RA1, connecting flow channel RX1, connecting flow channel RK1, connecting flow channel RK2, connecting flow channel RX2, and discharge liquid chamber RA2 from the Z2 direction side. In other words, the flexible membrane 3861a is a component that defines the supply liquid chamber RA1, connecting flow channel RX1, connecting flow channel RK1, connecting flow channel RK2, connecting flow channel RX2, and discharge liquid chamber RA2. The support plate 3861b is fixed to the Z2 direction surface of the flexible membrane 3861a, and an opening is formed at the position where it overlaps with the supply liquid chamber RA1, connecting flow channel RX1, connecting flow channel RK1, connecting flow channel RK2, connecting flow channel RX2, and discharge liquid chamber RA2 when viewed in the Z-axis direction. The fixing plate 39 is bonded to the support plate 3861b in a manner that seals the opening of the support plate 3861b from the Z2 direction. The space defined by the Z2 direction surface of the flexible membrane 3861a, the opening of the support plate 3861b, and the Z1 direction surface of the fixing plate 39 is connected to the atmosphere through an atmospheric communication channel (not shown), and by utilizing this space, the flexible membrane 3861a can deform in the Z1 and Z2 directions, thereby absorbing pressure fluctuations generated within the head unit 38.

[0127] 1.3.4. Flow channel

[0128] The flow channel structure 34 and the flow channel distribution section 37 are provided with a first supply flow channel Si1, a second supply flow channel Si2, a first discharge flow channel Do1, and a second discharge flow channel Do2. Hereinafter, the first supply flow channel Si1 and the second supply flow channel Si2 are collectively referred to as the supply flow channel Si. Similarly, the first discharge flow channel Do1 and the second discharge flow channel Do2 are collectively referred to as the discharge flow channel Do. The supply flow channel Si is the flow channel that supplies ink to the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side of each of the plurality of head units 38. The discharge flow channel Do is the flow channel that discharges ink from the common liquid chamber MN2 on the discharge side of each of the plurality of head units 38.

[0129] Figure 13 This diagram shows a general outline of the flow channel formed by the flow channel structure 34 and the flow channel distribution section 37. Figure 13 The diagram shows a first supply channel Si1, a second supply channel Si2, a first discharge channel Do1, and a second discharge channel Do2. Figure 13 In the diagram shown, the direction perpendicular to the paper is the Z-axis. However, to avoid complicating the diagram, in... Figure 13In the figure shown, the flow channel formed by the flow channel structure 34 and the flow channel distribution section 37, extending in the Z-axis direction between the flow channel structure 34 and the flow channel distribution section 37, is shown extending in a direction at an upper right angle of 45 degrees. Furthermore, by showing the length of this flow channel as longer than the original scale, it is possible to... Figure 13 The flow channel structure 34 and the flow channel distribution section 37 are shown in the figure in a non-overlapping manner. Furthermore, in Figure 13 The bypass flow path BP is omitted from the display. Furthermore, in Figure 13 In the diagram, the first supply channel Si1 and the second supply channel Si2 are represented by a single-dot dashed line, and the first discharge channel Do1 and the second discharge channel Do2 are represented by a dashed line.

[0130] The first supply channel Si1 supplies the first ink to head units 38_1, 38_3, and 38_5. The first supply channel Si1 includes a common supply channel SCi1, a connecting pipe 373i1, and a supply distribution channel SDi1. The second supply channel Si2 supplies the second ink to head units 38_2, 38_4, and 38_6. The second supply channel Si2 includes a common supply channel SCi2, a connecting pipe 373i2, and a supply distribution channel SDi2.

[0131] The first discharge channel Do1 is a channel for discharging the first ink from the head units 38_1, 38_3, and 38_5. The first discharge channel Do1 includes a discharge manifold channel DUo1, a connecting pipe 373o_1, a discharge independent channel DSo1_1, a connecting pipe 373o_3, a discharge independent channel DSo1_3, a connecting pipe 373o_5, and a discharge independent channel DSo1_5.

[0132] The second discharge channel Do2 is a channel for discharging the second ink from the head units 38_2, 38_4, and 38_6. The second discharge channel Do2 includes a discharge manifold channel DUo2, a connecting pipe 373o_2, a discharge independent channel DSo2_2, a connecting pipe 373o_4, a discharge independent channel DSo2_4, a connecting pipe 373o_6, and a discharge independent channel DSo2_6.

[0133] Common supply channels SCi1, SCi2, DUo1, and DUo2 are formed within the flow channel structure 34. Independent supply channels SDi1, SDi2, DSo1_1, DSo1_3, DSo1_5, DSo2_2, DSo2_4, and DSo2_6 are formed within the flow channel distribution section 37.

[0134] use Figure 14 The flow channels formed within the flow channel structure 34, which are formed through the flow channel structure 34 and the flow channel distribution section 37, will be explained using [the following text is incomplete and requires further context]. Figure 15 , Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 The flow channel formed by the flow channel distribution section 37 will be explained.

[0135] Figure 14 A diagram showing the flow channels formed within the flow channel structure 34. Figure 14 The figure shown is a plan view of the flow channel structure 34 viewed in the Z2 direction. The flow channel structure 34 includes a common supply flow channel SCi1, a common supply flow channel SCi2, a discharge manifold flow channel DUo1, and a discharge manifold flow channel DUo2. Furthermore, in addition to the aforementioned connecting pipes 341i1, 341i2, 341o1, and 341o2, the flow channel structure 34 also includes filters RF1 and RF2. Hereinafter, filters RF1 and RF2 will be collectively referred to as filters RF.

[0136] Connecting pipes 341i1, 341i2, 341o1, and 341o2 are provided such that they protrude toward the Z1-oriented surface of the flow channel plate Su1. Connecting pipe 341i1 forms a pipe body that constitutes a flow channel for supplying a first ink to the flow channel plate Su1. Furthermore, connecting pipe 341i2 forms a pipe body that constitutes a flow channel for supplying a second ink to the flow channel plate Su1. On the other hand, connecting pipe 341o1 forms a pipe body that constitutes a flow channel for discharging the first ink from the flow channel plate Su1. Furthermore, connecting pipe 341o2 forms a pipe body that constitutes a flow channel for discharging the second ink from the flow channel plate Su1.

[0137] A filter RF is a plate-shaped or sheet-like component that allows ink to pass through while capturing foreign matter mixed into the ink. A filter RF is constructed, for example, of metal fibers such as twilled Dutch weave or plain Dutch weave. However, filter RFs are not limited to structures using metal fibers; for example, they can also be constructed of resin fibers such as non-woven fabrics. Typically, a filter RF is arranged parallel to the XY plane.

[0138] The common supply channels SCi1 and SCi2 are configured to be point-symmetric with respect to the centroid G34 of the channel structure 34. Similarly, the discharge manifold channels DUo1 and DUo2 are configured to be point-symmetric with respect to the centroid G34 of the channel structure 34.

[0139] The common supply channel SCi1 is connected to the connecting pipe 341i1 via the filter RF1. Furthermore, the common supply channel SCi1 extends along the Y-axis and has a discharge port CE1 near its end in the Y2 direction. A portion of the common supply channel SCi1 is configured along edge He8. The discharge port CE1 is connected to the connecting pipe 373i1. Moreover, the discharge port CE1 is located near the vertex where edge He1 intersects edge He8.

[0140] The common supply channel SCi2 is connected to the connecting pipe 341i2 via the filter RF2. Furthermore, the common supply channel SCi2 extends along the Y-axis and has a discharge port CE2 near its end in the Y1 direction. A portion of the common supply channel SCi2 is configured along edge He4. The discharge port CE2 is connected to the connecting pipe 373i2. Moreover, the discharge port CE2 is located near the vertex where edges He4 and He5 intersect.

[0141] The discharge manifold DUo1 has discharge channel portions DP1_11, DP1_12, DP1_3, DP1_51, DP1_52, and DP1_U. Discharge channel portion DP1_11 extends along the Y-axis and communicates with discharge channel portion DP1_12 at its end in the Y1 direction, and has an inlet CI1_1 near its end in the Y2 direction. Inlet CI1_1 communicates with connecting pipe 373o_1. Discharge channel portion DP1_12 extends along the X-axis and communicates with discharge channel portion DP1_11 at its end in the X1 direction, and communicates with discharge channel portion DP1_U at its end in the X2 direction. Discharge channel portion DP1_3 extends along the Y-axis and communicates with discharge channel portion DP1_U at its end in the Y1 direction, and has an inlet CI1_3 near its end in the Y2 direction. The inlet CI1_3 is connected to the connecting pipe 373o_3. The discharge channel portion DP1_51 extends along the U-axis direction and connects to the discharge channel portion DP1_52 at its end in the U1 direction, and has an inlet CI1_5 near its end in the U2 direction. Furthermore, the inlet CI1_5 is located near edge He2. The U-axis direction is a collective term for the U1 and U2 directions. The U1 direction is the direction in which the X1 direction is rotated approximately 45 degrees clockwise. The U2 direction is the opposite direction of the U1 direction. The discharge channel portion DP1_52 extends along the X-axis direction and connects to the discharge channel portion DP1_U at its end in the X1 direction, and connects to the discharge channel portion DP1_51 at its end in the X2 direction. The discharge channel section DP1_U connects to the connecting pipe 341o1 at its Z1 end, to the discharge channel section DP1_12 at its X1 end, to the discharge channel section DP1_3 at its Y2 end, and to the discharge channel section DP1_52 at its X2 end. The discharge channel section DP1_U is where the ink flowing from the discharge channels DP1_12, DP1_3, and DP1_52 converges. The converged ink then flows to the connecting pipe 341o2.

[0142] The discharge manifold DUo2 has discharge channel portions DP2_21, DP2_22, DP2_4, DP2_61, DP2_62, and DP2_U. Discharge channel portion DP2_21 extends along the U-axis and has an inlet CI2_2 near its end in the U1 direction, communicating with discharge channel portion DP2_22 at its end in the U2 direction. The inlet CI2_2 communicates with connecting pipe 373o_2. Furthermore, the inlet CI2_2 is located near edge He6. Discharge channel portion DP2_22 extends along the X-axis and communicates with discharge channel portion DP2_U at its end in the X2 direction, and with discharge channel portion DP2_21 at its end in the X1 direction. The discharge channel portion DP2_4 extends along the Y-axis and has an inlet CI2_4 near its end in the Y1 direction, communicating with the discharge channel portion DP2_U at its end in the Y2 direction. The inlet CI2_4 communicates with the connecting pipe 373o_4. The discharge channel portion DP2_61 extends along the Y-axis and has an inlet CI2_6 near its end in the Y1 direction, communicating with the discharge channel portion DP2_62 at its end in the Y2 direction. The inlet CI2_6 communicates with the connecting pipe 373o_6. The discharge channel portion DP2_62 extends along the X-axis and communicates with the discharge channel portion DP2_U at its end in the X1 direction, communicating with the discharge channel portion DP2_61 at its end in the X2 direction. The discharge channel section DP2_U connects to the connecting pipe 341o2 at its Z1 end, to the discharge channel section DP2_22 at its X1 end, to the discharge channel section DP2_4 at its Y1 end, and to the discharge channel section DP2_62 at its X2 end. The discharge channel section DP2_U is where the ink flowing from the discharge channels DP2_22, DP2_4, and DP2_62 converges. The converged ink then flows to the connecting pipe 341o2.

[0143] Figure 15 as well as Figure 16 A diagram of the flow channels formed in the flow distribution section 37. Figure 15 The figure shown is a perspective view of the flow channels formed within the flow channel distribution section 37. Figure 16 The figure shown is a plan view of the flow channels formed within the flow channel distribution section 37. Figure 15 as well as Figure 16 The image also shows the head unit 38 and the mounting plate 39. Furthermore, in... Figure 15To avoid complicating the accompanying drawings, only a portion of the multiple bypass channels BP are denoted by symbols. When viewed in planar view, the shapes of the channel distribution section 37 and the fixing plate 39 are approximately the same as those of the channel structure 34. Therefore, for simplicity, the eight sides of the shapes of the channel distribution section 37 and the fixing plate 39 are described using the same symbols as those for the sides He1 to He8 of the channel structure 34, which are located at approximately the same positions.

[0144] like Figure 15 As illustrated, the connecting pipe 373i1 extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the outlet CE1 at its Z1 end and with the supply distribution channel SDi1 at its Z2 end. Figure 15 As illustrated, the supply distribution channel SDi1 has a distribution channel SPH1, an inlet channel SPV_1, an inlet channel SPV_3, and an inlet channel SPV_5.

[0145] The distribution channel SPH1 is formed by a first channel component Du1 and a second channel component Du2. Furthermore, the distribution channel SPH1 distributes and supplies the first ink to multiple common liquid chambers MN1 corresponding to the head units 38_1, 38_3, and 38_5, respectively. Figure 16 As illustrated, the distribution channel SPH1 has distribution channel portions SP1_11, SP1_12, SP1_31, SP1_32, SP1_51, SP1_52, SP1_53, SP1_U1, and SP1_U2.

[0146] The distribution channel SP1_11 extends along the V-axis direction, communicating with the inlet channel SPV_1 at its end in the V1 direction and with the distribution channel SP1_12 at its end in the V2 direction. The distribution channel SP1_11 is located near and along edge He7. The inlet channel SPV_1 extends along the Z-axis direction, communicating with the distribution channel SP1_11 at its end in the Z1 direction and with the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 of the head unit 38_1 at its end in the Z2 direction. The distribution channel SP1_12 extends along the Y-axis direction, communicating with the distribution channel SP1_11 at its end in the Y1 direction and with the distribution channel SP1_U1 at its end in the Y2 direction. The distribution channel SP1_12 is located near and along edge He8.

[0147] The distribution channel SP1_31 extends along the V-axis direction, connecting with the inlet channel SPV_3 at its end in the V1 direction and with the distribution channel SP1_32 at its end in the V2 direction. The inlet channel SPV_3 extends along the Z-axis direction, connecting with the distribution channel SP1_31 at its end in the Z1 direction and with the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 of the head unit 38_3 at its end in the Z2 direction. The distribution channel SP1_32 extends along the Y-axis direction, connecting with the distribution channel SP1_31 at its end in the Y1 direction and with the distribution channel SP1_U2 at its end in the Y2 direction.

[0148] The distribution channel SP1_51 extends along the V-axis direction and communicates with the inlet channel SPV_5 at its end in the V1 direction and with the distribution channel SP1_52 at its end in the V2 direction. The inlet channel SPV_5 extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the distribution channel SP1_51 at its end in the Z1 direction and with the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 of the head unit 38_5 at its end in the Z2 direction. The distribution channel SP1_52 is bent at approximately 124 degrees in a convex manner toward the V2 direction and communicates with the distribution channel SP1_51 at its end in the V1 direction and with the distribution channel SP1_53 at its end in the X1 direction. The distribution channel SP1_53 extends along the X-axis direction and communicates with the distribution channel SP1_52 at its end in the X2 direction and with the distribution channel SP1_U2 at its end in the X1 direction. The distribution channel section SP1_53 is configured near edge He1.

[0149] The distribution channel SP1_U1 is connected to the connecting pipe 373i1 at its Z1 end, to the distribution channel SP1_12 at its Y1 end, and to the distribution channel SP1_U2 at its X2 end. The distribution channel SP1_U1 is where the first ink flowing from the connecting pipe 373i1 is distributed to the distribution channel SP1_12 and the distribution channel SP1_U2. The distribution channel SP1_U1 is located near the vertex where edges He1 and He8 intersect.

[0150] The distribution channel portion SP1_U2 extends along the X-axis direction, communicating with the distribution channel portion SP1_U1 at its X1 end and with the distribution channel portions SP1_32 and SP1_53 at its X2 end. The X2 end of the distribution channel portion SP1_U2 is where the first ink flowing out of the distribution channel portion SP1_U1 is distributed to the distribution channel portions SP1_32 and SP1_53. The distribution channel portion SP1_U2 is located near and along edge He1.

[0151] like Figure 15 As illustrated, the connecting pipe 373i2 extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the outlet CE2 at its Z1 end and with the supply distribution channel SDi2 at its Z2 end. Figure 15 As illustrated, the supply distribution channel SDi2 has a distribution channel SPH2, an inlet channel SPV_2, an inlet channel SPV_4, and an inlet channel SPV_6.

[0152] The distribution channel SPH2 distributes and supplies the second ink to multiple common liquid chambers MN1 corresponding to the head units 38_2, 38_4, and 38_6, respectively. For example... Figure 16 As illustrated, the distribution channel SPH2 has distribution channel portions SP2_21, SP2_22, SP2_23, SP2_41, SP2_42, SP2_61, SP2_62, SP2_U1, and SP2_U2.

[0153] The distribution channel SP2_21 extends along the V-axis and connects to the inlet channel SPV_2 at its end in the V2 direction and to the distribution channel SP2_22 at its end in the V1 direction. The inlet channel SPV_2 extends along the Z-axis and connects to the distribution channel SP2_21 at its end in the Z1 direction and to the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 of the head unit 38_2 in the Z2 direction. The distribution channel SP2_22 bends approximately 124 degrees in a convex manner toward the V1 direction and connects to the distribution channel SP2_21 at its end in the V2 direction and to the distribution channel SP2_23 at its end in the X2 direction. The distribution channel SP2_23 extends along the X-axis and connects to the distribution channel SP2_22 at its end in the X1 direction and to the distribution channel SP2_U2 at its end in the X2 direction. The distribution channel portion SP2_23 is located near edge He5 and is set along edge He5.

[0154] The distribution channel SP2_41 extends along the V-axis direction and connects to the inlet channel SPV_4 at its end in the V2 direction, and to the distribution channel SP2_42 at its end in the V1 direction. The inlet channel SPV_4 extends along the Z-axis direction and connects to the distribution channel SP2_41 at its end in the Z1 direction, and to the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 of the head unit 38_4 at its Z2 direction. The distribution channel SP2_42 extends along the Y-axis direction and connects to the distribution channel SP2_41 at its end in the Y2 direction, and to the distribution channel SP2_U2 at its end in the Y1 direction.

[0155] The distribution channel SP2_61 extends along the V-axis and connects to the inlet channel SPV_6 at its end in the V2 direction, and to the distribution channel SP2_62 at its end in the V1 direction. The distribution channel SP2_61 is located near and along edge He3. The inlet channel SPV_6 extends along the Z-axis and connects to the distribution channel SP2_61 at its end in the Z1 direction, and to the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 of the head unit 38_6 in the Z2 direction. The distribution channel SP2_62 extends along the Y-axis and connects to the distribution channel SP2_61 at its end in the Y2 direction, and to the distribution channel SP2_U1 at its end in the Y1 direction. The distribution channel SP2_62 is located near and along edge He4.

[0156] The distribution channel SP2_U1 connects to the connecting pipe 373i2 at its Z1 end, to the distribution channel SP2_62 at its Y2 end, and to the distribution channel SP2_U2 at its X1 end. The distribution channel SP2_U1 is where the second ink flowing from the connecting pipe 373i2 is distributed to the distribution channel SP2_62 and the distribution channel SP2_U2. The distribution channel SP1_U2 is located near the vertex where edges He4 and He5 intersect.

[0157] The distribution channel portion SP2_U2 extends along the X-axis direction and communicates with the distribution channel portion SP2_U1 at its X2-direction end, and with the distribution channel portions SP2_42 and SP2_23 at its X1-direction end. The X1-direction end of the distribution channel portion SP2_U2 is where the second ink flowing out from the distribution channel portion SP2_U1 is distributed to the distribution channel portions SP2_42 and SP2_23. The distribution channel portion SP2_U2 is located near edge He5 and is set along edge He5.

[0158] like Figure 15 As illustrated, the discharge independent flow channel DSo1_1 has a discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_1 and an outlet flow channel DSV_1. For example... Figure 16 As illustrated, the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_1 is bent at approximately 90 degrees, bulging towards the Y2 direction, and communicates with the outlet flow channel DSV_1 at its end in the V1 direction and with the connecting pipe 373o_1 at its end in the W2 direction. The outlet flow channel DSV_1 extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 of the head unit 38_1 at its end in the Z2 direction and with the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_1 at its end in the Z1 direction.

[0159] like Figure 15 As illustrated, the discharge independent flow channel DSo2_2 has a discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_2 and an outlet flow channel DSV_2. For example... Figure 16 As illustrated, the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_2 is bent at approximately 90 degrees, bulging towards the Y1 direction, and communicates with the outlet flow channel DSV_2 at its end in the V2 direction and with the connecting pipe 373o_2 at its end in the W1 direction. The outlet flow channel DSV_2 extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 of the head unit 38_2 at its end in the Z2 direction and with the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_2 at its end in the Z1 direction.

[0160] like Figure 15 As illustrated, the discharge independent flow channel DSo1_3 has a discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_3 and an outlet flow channel DSV_3. For example... Figure 16 As illustrated, the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_3 is bent at approximately 90 degrees in a manner that bulges towards the Y2 direction, and communicates with the outlet flow channel DSV_3 at its end in the V1 direction and with the connecting pipe 373o_3 at its end in the W2 direction. The outlet flow channel DSV_3 extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 of the head unit 38_3 at its end in the Z2 direction and with the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_3 at its end in the Z1 direction.

[0161] like Figure 15 As illustrated, the discharge independent flow channel DSo2_4 has a discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_4 and an outlet flow channel DSV_4. For example... Figure 16 As illustrated, the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_4 is bent at approximately 90 degrees, bulging towards the Y1 direction, and communicates with the outlet flow channel DSV_4 at its end in the V2 direction and with the connecting pipe 373o_4 at its end in the W1 direction. The outlet flow channel DSV_4 extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 of the head unit 38_4 at its end in the Z2 direction and with the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_4 at its end in the Z1 direction.

[0162] like Figure 15 As illustrated, the discharge independent flow channel DSo1_5 has a discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_5 and an outlet flow channel DSV_5. For example... Figure 16 As illustrated, the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_5 is bent at approximately 90 degrees, bulging towards the Y2 direction, and communicates with the outlet flow channel DSV_5 at its end in the V1 direction and with the connecting pipe 373o_5 at its end in the W2 direction. The outlet flow channel DSV_5 extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 of the head unit 38_5 at its end in the Z2 direction and with the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_5 at its end in the Z1 direction.

[0163] like Figure 15 As illustrated, the discharge independent flow channel DSo2_6 has a discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_6 and an outlet flow channel DSV_6. For example... Figure 16 As illustrated, the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_6 is bent at approximately 90 degrees, bulging towards the Y1 direction, and communicates with the outlet flow channel DSV_6 at its end in the V2 direction and with the connecting pipe 373o_6 at its end in the W1 direction. The outlet flow channel DSV_6 extends along the Z-axis direction and communicates with the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 of the head unit 38_6 at its end in the Z2 direction and with the discharge horizontal flow channel DSH_6 at its end in the Z1 direction.

[0164] like Figure 16 As illustrated, the bypass horizontal portions BP1H_2, BP1H_4, BP1H_6, BP2H_1, BP2H_3, and BP2H_5 each have portions that, when viewed in a planar manner, do not overlap with the outer shell 385 of the head unit 38 corresponding to the bypass horizontal portion BPH. Figure 16 In the diagram, dashed lines indicate the boundaries of the outer shell 385 that overlap with the bypass horizontal portion BPH when viewed in a planar configuration. Furthermore, the bypass horizontal portions BP1H_1, BP1H_3, BP1H_5, BP2H_2, BP2H_4, and BP2H_6 each overlap, in all portions, with the outer shell 385 of the head unit 38 corresponding to the bypass horizontal portion BPH when viewed in a planar configuration.

[0165] That is, in the head unit 38_k, the bypass horizontal portions BP1H_k and BP2H_k, located at a distance farther than the outer edge of the flow channel distribution section 37 in the Y-axis direction, have portions that do not overlap with the outer shell 385 of the head unit 38_k when viewed in a planar view, while the bypass horizontal portions BPH located at a distance closer to the outer edge of the flow channel distribution section 37 in the Y-axis direction overlap with the outer shell 385 of the head unit 38_k in all portions when viewed in a planar view. k is an integer from 1 to 6.

[0166] Figure 17 This is a three-dimensional view of the first flow channel component Du1. (See diagram below.) Figure 17 As illustrated, a groove is formed on the Z1 direction surface of the first flow channel component Du1, defining the distribution flow channels SPH1, SPH2, discharge horizontal flow channels DSH_1 to DSH_6, bypass horizontal sections BP1H_1 to BP1H_6, and bypass horizontal sections BP2H_1 to BP2H_6. Although not shown, a groove is formed on the Z2 direction surface of the second flow channel component Du2, defining the distribution flow channels SPH1, SPH2, discharge horizontal flow channels DSH_1 to DSH_6, bypass horizontal sections BP1H_1 to BP1H_6, and bypass horizontal sections BP2H_1 to BP2H_6. In other words, the distribution channels SPH1 and SPH2, the discharge horizontal channels DSH_1 to DSH_6, the bypass horizontal sections BP1H_1 to BP1H_6, and the bypass horizontal sections BP2H_1 to BP2H_6 are formed between the first flow channel component Du1 and the second flow channel component Du2. Alternatively, the grooves defining the distribution channels SPH1, SPH2, DSH_1 to DSH_6, bypass horizontal sections BP1H_1 to BP1H_6, and bypass horizontal sections BP2H_1 to BP2H_6 can also be structures formed only on either the first flow channel component Du1 or the second flow channel component Du2.

[0167] 1.4. Summary of the First Implementation Method

[0168] As described above, the liquid injection head 30 includes a nozzle array Ln, multiple independent flow channels RJ, a supply-side common liquid chamber MN1, a discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2, a first bypass flow channel BP1, a second bypass flow channel BP2, and an inlet flow channel SPV. The nozzle array Ln is configured such that multiple nozzles N ejecting ink in the Z2 direction are arranged side-by-side in the V2 direction, which is orthogonal to the Z2 direction. The multiple independent flow channels RJ are connected to the multiple nozzles N. The supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 extends along the Z2 direction and is connected to the multiple independent flow channels RJ, supplying ink to the multiple independent flow channels RJ. The discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 extends along the V2 direction and is connected to the multiple independent flow channels RJ, allowing ink discharged from the multiple independent flow channels RJ to flow through. The first bypass flow channel BP1 connects the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2. The second bypass flow channel BP2 connects the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2. The inlet channel SPV communicates with the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 in the V2 direction between the first bypass channel BP1 and the second bypass channel BP2. The first bypass channel BP1 has a supply-side vertical portion BP1VS extending from the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 towards the Z1 direction, which is opposite to the Z2 direction. The second bypass channel BP2 has a supply-side vertical portion BP2VS extending from the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 towards the Z1 direction. Figure 9 As illustrated, the supply-side vertical section BP1VS is located in the V1 direction, which is opposite to the V2 direction, compared to the independent flow channel RJ, which is located closest to the V2 direction. The supply-side vertical section BP2VS is located in the V2 direction, compared to the independent flow channel RJ, which is located closest to the V1 direction.

[0169] In other words, the supply-side vertical portions BP1VS and BP2VS are located on the inner side of the end of the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side.

[0170] Additionally, Z2 direction is an example of a "first direction". V2 direction is an example of a "second direction". Z1 direction is an example of a "third direction". Supply-side vertical section BP1VS is an example of a "first vertical section". Supply-side vertical section BP2VS has a "second vertical section". V1 direction is an example of a "fourth direction". However, the second direction is not limited to V2 direction, it can also be V1 direction. When the second direction is V1 direction, the fourth direction is equivalent to V2 direction, the first vertical section is equivalent to supply-side vertical section BP2VS, and the second vertical section is equivalent to supply-side vertical section BP1VS.

[0171] Generally, it is preferable that the bypass channel BP is located away from the inlet channel SPV to recover air bubbles in the ink. This is because by providing the bypass channel BP away from the inlet channel SPV, ink flow is generated even away from the inlet channel SPV, thereby enabling the recovery of air bubbles trapped in the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side. However, in the first embodiment where the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is located closer to the V2 direction than the independent channel RJ located closest to the V2 direction, air bubbles may remain near the opening of the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS when the nozzle face FN is inclined relative to the horizontal plane SF.

[0172] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating the case where the nozzle face FN is tilted in the first embodiment. Figure 18 The diagram shown illustrates the V2 direction end of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 in the first embodiment described above, with the nozzle face FN tilted at 60 degrees relative to the horizontal plane SF. Figure 18 And the following Figure 19 , Figure 20 as well as Figure 21 In the state shown, the V2 direction is a 60-degree rotation relative to the horizontal plane SF in the direction opposite to the direction of gravity, and has a component in the opposite direction to gravity. The W-axis direction is parallel to the horizontal plane SF. Furthermore, in Figure 18 And the following Figure 19 , Figure 20 as well as Figure 21 In the diagram, the nozzle plate 387 is shown in dashed lines; however, the fixed plate 39 and the support plate 3861b of the malleable substrate 3861 are omitted. Furthermore, in Figure 18 And the following Figure 19 , Figure 20 as well as Figure 21 The diagram only shows nozzle N, which is positioned closest to the V2 direction.

[0173] like Figure 18 As shown, nozzle N, located closest to the V2 direction, is positioned in the V1 direction compared to the wall surface of the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side in the V2 direction. Furthermore, the ink... Figure 18 The flow proceeds as indicated by the arrow marked Ar1. Specifically, the ink flowing along the V2 direction in the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side, and the ink flowing into the independent flow channel RJ connected to the nozzle N located closest to the V2 direction, changes its flow direction towards Z2 closer to the front side (V1 direction side) of the wall in the V2 direction of the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side, while the ink flowing into the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side changes its flow direction towards Z1. Figure 18In the area Ra shown, the ink flow from the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side towards the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side is weak, resulting in a reduced ink flow rate. Furthermore, since this is an area where ink flow into the independent flow channel RJ does not occur, sediment is generated during ink flow. Additionally, with the nozzle face FN tilted relative to the horizontal plane SF, air bubbles generated in the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side tend to remain in the area Ra due to buoyancy, moving in the opposite direction to gravity. When the pressure chamber CB becomes negative due to ink ejection, although ink is drawn from the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side, air bubbles retained in the common liquid chamber MN1 may also be drawn in simultaneously. If air bubbles are drawn into the independent flow channel RJ, ejection abnormalities occur due to these air bubbles.

[0174] Figure 19 The diagram shows the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 when the nozzle face FN is tilted in this embodiment. Figure 19 The figure shown is the end of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 in the V2 direction with the nozzle face FN tilted at 60 degrees relative to the horizontal plane SF in this embodiment.

[0175] ink, such as Figure 19 The flow is indicated by the arrow Ar2 shown. Specifically, the ink flowing in the common liquid chamber MN1 along the V2 direction, and the ink flowing into the independent flow channel RJ connected to the nozzle N located closest to the V2 direction, flows further in the V2 direction than the wall surface of the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side, and the ink flowing into the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side flows in the Z1 direction. That is, because the ink flows in the V2 direction towards the end of the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side, the generation of ink deposits at the end of the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side in the V2 direction can be reduced.

[0176] Furthermore, in this embodiment, by making the Z1 direction surface of the V2 end region MN1a a conical surface, compared with the second embodiment where the Z1 direction surface of the V2 end region MN1a is not a conical surface but parallel to the V-axis direction, the generation of ink deposits can be reduced.

[0177] Figure 20 Figure is shown to illustrate the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 in the second embodiment when the nozzle face FN is tilted. Figure 20 The figure shown illustrates the V2 direction end of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 in the second embodiment described above, with the nozzle face FN tilted at 60 degrees relative to the horizontal plane SF.

[0178] ink, such as Figure 20The flow is indicated by the arrow mark Ar3. Specifically, the ink flowing in the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side along the V2 direction, the ink flowing into the independent flow channel RJ changes its flow direction in the Z2 direction, and the ink flowing into the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side changes its flow direction in the Z1 direction closer to the front side (V1 direction side) compared to region Rb. In the second embodiment, since... Figure 20 The area Rb shown is the region in which ink flows along the V2 direction in the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side, and does not produce ink flow into the independent flow channel RJ or ink flow into the vertical part BP1VS on the supply side. Therefore, it is prone to precipitation.

[0179] In this embodiment, since the Z1 direction surface of the V2 end region MN1a is a conical surface, there is no area where the ink flow rate decreases, thus reducing the generation of deposits. To suppress the decrease in ink flow rate, the corners of the Z1 direction surface of the V2 end region MN1a and the V2 direction surface of the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS are formed into an R (rounded) shape.

[0180] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when viewed in planar view, the inlet channel SPV is located at the midpoint between the end of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 in the V1 direction and the end in the V2 direction, and the outlet channel DSV is located at the midpoint between the end of the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 in the V1 direction and the end in the V2 direction. In other words, the length in the V-axis direction from the inlet channel SPV to the farthest nozzle N is approximately half the length in the V-axis direction of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1, and the length in the V-axis direction from the outlet channel DSV to the farthest nozzle N is approximately half the length in the V-axis direction of the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2. Generally, when the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 become longer, the resistance increases, and the pressure fluctuation of the ink during ejection near the nozzle N, which is far from the inlet channel SPV and the outlet channel DSV, becomes larger. When the ink pressure fluctuation becomes larger, in other words, when the pressure of the ink in the nozzle N, which is far from the inlet channel SPV and the outlet channel DSV, becomes lower, air bubbles may be introduced from the nozzle N. In this embodiment, since the length of the V-axis from the inlet channel SPV to the farthest nozzle N is shorter than the length of the V-axis from the inlet channel SPV to the farthest nozzle N when the inlet channel SPV is located at the end of the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side, the resistance from the inlet channel SPV to the vicinity of the farthest nozzle N is reduced, thereby reducing ink pressure fluctuations.

[0181] In addition, such as Figure 10As illustrated, when the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 is divided into four regions—Re1, Re2, Re3, and Re4—parallel to a plane perpendicular to the V2 direction, the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is located in region Re1, which is situated at the position closest to the V2 direction. When the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 is equally divided into the aforementioned four regions parallel to a plane perpendicular to the V2 direction, the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS is located in region Re4, which is situated at the position closest to the V1 direction.

[0182] As described above, preferably, the bypass channel BP is positioned away from the inlet channel SPV to recover air bubbles within the ink. Since the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is located in region Re1, air bubbles trapped in region Re1 and region Re2 within the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 can be recovered. Furthermore, since the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is located in the V1 direction compared to the independent channel RJ positioned closest to the V2 direction, the flow of ink toward the independent channel RJ positioned closest to the V2 direction reduces the formation of ink deposits at the V2-direction end of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1.

[0183] Furthermore, since the vertical portion BP2VS on the supply side is located in region Re2, it is possible to recover air bubbles trapped in regions Re3 and Re4 within the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side. Moreover, since the vertical portion BP2VS on the supply side is located in the V2 direction compared to the independent flow channel RJ located most in the V1 direction, the flow of ink toward the independent flow channel RJ located most in the V1 direction can reduce the formation of ink deposits at the V1-direction end of the common liquid chamber MN1.

[0184] In addition, such as Figure 10 As illustrated, when the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 is equally divided into eight regions—Re11, Re12, Re21, Re22, Re31, Re32, Re41, and Re42—parallel to a plane perpendicular to the V2 direction, the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is located in region Re11, which is situated at the position closest to the V2 direction. Similarly, when the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 is equally divided into these eight regions parallel to a plane perpendicular to the V2 direction, the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS is located in region Re42, which is situated at the position closest to the V1 direction.

[0185] By positioning the supply-side vertical section BP1VS in region Re11, the first bypass channel BP1 is able to recover bubbles trapped in region Re12, compared to positioning the supply-side vertical section BP1VS in region Re12.

[0186] Furthermore, by placing the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS in region Re42, the first bypass channel BP1 is able to recover bubbles trapped in region Re41, compared to placing the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS in region Re41.

[0187] Additionally, the inlet channel SPV can also be slightly offset relative to the midpoint between the ends in the V1 and V2 directions of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1, and the outlet channel DSV can also be slightly offset relative to the midpoint between the ends in the V1 and V2 directions of the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2. For example, as long as in Figure 10 The region, including regions R22 and R31, only needs to have an import flow channel SPV configured. The same applies to the export flow channel DSV.

[0188] Furthermore, the liquid injection head 30 has a discharge channel DSV communicating with the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 between the first bypass channel BP1 and the second bypass channel BP2 in the V2 direction. The first bypass channel BP1 has a discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD extending from the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 in the Z1 direction. The discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD is an example of a "third vertical portion". The second bypass channel BP2 has a discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD extending from the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 in the Z1 direction. The discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD is an example of a "fourth vertical portion". The discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD is located in the V1 direction compared to the independent channel RJ which is located most closely in the V2 direction. The discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD is located in the V2 direction compared to the independent channel RJ which is located most closely in the V1 direction. Figure 21 The effect of the vertical portion BP1VD on the discharge side being located in the V1 direction compared to the independent flow channel RJ which is located in the V2 direction is explained.

[0189] Figure 21 This diagram illustrates the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 when the nozzle face FN is tilted in this embodiment. Figure 21 The diagram shown illustrates the end of the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 in the V2 direction, with the nozzle face FN tilted at 60 degrees relative to the horizontal plane SF in this embodiment. Figure 21 In the example, the V2 direction is the direction that is rotated 60 degrees counterclockwise relative to the horizontal plane SF, and has a component in the opposite direction to the direction of gravity.

[0190] Within the common liquid chamber MN2 on the discharge side, air bubbles near the independent flow channel RJ, which is connected to the nozzle N positioned closest to V2, flow in the V2 direction due to buoyancy. On the other hand, ink... Figure 21 The flow proceeds as indicated by the arrow Ar4 shown. More specifically, the ink flowing out in the vertical portion BP1VD on the discharge side along the Z2 direction and the ink flowing out from the independent flow channel RJ, which is located closest to the V2 direction, converge approximately in the V1 direction. In this way, in this embodiment, since the vertical portion BP1VD on the discharge side is located in the V1 direction compared to the independent flow channel RJ located closest to the V2 direction, a V1 direction flow of ink from the independent flow channel RJ located closest to the V2 direction is generated. Although, as described above, the air bubbles in the common liquid chamber MN2 on the discharge side tend to flow in the V2 direction due to buoyancy, since the V2 direction flow of the air bubbles is opposed to the V1 direction flow of the ink, the retention of air bubbles at the V2 direction end of the common liquid chamber MN2 on the discharge side can be reduced.

[0191] Furthermore, the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 has a V2 connecting region MN1b located from the inlet channel SPV to the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS, and a V2 end region MN1a located in the V2 direction relative to the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS. The V2 connecting region MN1b is an example of a "first region". The V2 end region MN1a is an example of a "second region". The Z1 direction surface MN1aS of the V2 end region MN1a is positioned in the Z2 direction relative to the Z1 direction surface MN1bS of the V2 connecting region MN1b.

[0192] By positioning surface MN1aS relative to surface MN1bS in the Z2 direction, the ink flow rate in the V2 end region MN1a is increased compared to the ink flow rate in the V2 end region MN1a when the Z-axis position of surface MN1aS is the same as that of surface MN1bS. This increased ink flow rate reduces the formation of ink deposits in the V2 end region MN1a.

[0193] Furthermore, in the V2 end region MN1a, there is a portion having a size less than half the maximum size in the Z-axis direction of the V2 connecting region MN1b. Generally, corresponding to a smaller cross-sectional area of ​​the flow channel, the flow velocity of the liquid in the flow channel increases. Therefore, the liquid injection head 30 can suppress the decrease in flow velocity of the independent flow channel RJ connected to the V2 end region MN1a. In addition, by making the distance between the wall surface in the Z1 direction of the V2 end region MN1a and the wall surface in the Z2 direction of the V2 end region MN1a close, it is possible to suppress the formation of spaces where bubbles may stagnate near the wall surface in the Z1 direction of the V2 end region MN1a.

[0194] Furthermore, the liquid injection device 100 includes a plurality of liquid injection heads 30. The plurality of liquid injection heads 30 are arranged in a long, strip-shaped configuration along the X-axis direction orthogonal to the Z1 direction. The V2 direction is the direction intersecting both the X1 and X2 directions. The X1 and X2 directions are examples of a "fifth direction". Alternatively, a single liquid injection head 30 may be configured as a long, strip-shaped configuration along the X-axis direction.

[0195] When the traverse head is placed on a surface inclined from the horizontal plane SF and used, in other words, when the nozzle face FN is rotated about a straight line along the X-axis, as shown... Figure 19 as well as Figure 21 As illustrated, this can reduce bubble retention.

[0196] Furthermore, the liquid injection device 100 includes a liquid injection head 30. Moreover, the liquid injection device 100 includes a circulation mechanism 94 that circulates the ink supplied to the liquid injection head 30. By including the circulation mechanism 94, air bubbles and settled ink mixed in with the ink are returned to the auxiliary tank along with the circulated ink, thereby reducing the occurrence of nozzle clogging. Therefore, maintenance work such as liquid replacement and cleaning of the liquid injection head 30 becomes easier.

[0197] Furthermore, the liquid injection head 30 is configured such that multiple substrates are stacked in the Z2 direction. The multiple substrates refer to, for example, the first flow channel component Du1 and the second flow channel component Du2 included in the flow channel distribution unit 37, and the housing 385 and the connecting plate 382 included in the head unit 38. The liquid injection head 30 includes multiple independent flow channels RJ, a supply-side common liquid chamber MN1, a discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2, and a bypass flow channel BP. The multiple independent flow channels RJ are respectively connected to multiple nozzles N for injecting ink in the Z2 direction. The supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 extends in a direction intersecting the Z1 direction and communicates with the multiple independent flow channels RJ, supplying ink to the multiple independent flow channels RJ. Although the direction intersecting the Z1 direction is typically the V1 direction, it can be any direction other than the V1 direction as long as it intersects the Z1 direction. The discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 extends in a direction intersecting the Z1 direction and communicates with the multiple independent flow channels RJ, allowing ink discharged from the multiple independent flow channels RJ to flow through. The extension directions of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 can be the same or different. Multiple independent flow channels RJ connect the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2. The supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 are formed in the same layer of multiple substrates. "Same layer" means that they are at the same position in the Z-axis direction. "At the same position in the Z-axis direction" means that they partially or completely overlap when viewed in the direction perpendicular to the Z-axis. For example, as... Figure 8 As illustrated, when viewed in the W-axis direction, which is perpendicular to the Z-axis direction, the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 overlap. The bypass channel BP has a bypass horizontal portion BPH formed in a layer different from both the supply-side and discharge-side common liquid chambers MN1 and MN2, which are formed in multiple substrates. The bypass horizontal portion BPH is an example of a "first portion". "Different layers" means different positions in the Z-axis direction. "Different positions in the Z-axis direction" means that they do not overlap when viewed in the direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction. For example, as... Figure 10 As illustrated, the bypass horizontal sections BP1H and BP2H do not overlap with the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 when observed in the W2 direction.

[0198] By forming the bypass horizontal portion BPH in a different layer than the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2, the bypass horizontal portion BPH can overlap with a portion of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 when viewed in a planar view. Therefore, compared to the first embodiment where the bypass horizontal portion BPH is located in the same layer as the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2, the liquid injection head 30 can be miniaturized in both the W-axis and V-axis directions.

[0199] Furthermore, the first bypass channel BP1 has a supply-side vertical portion BP1VS and a discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD. The second bypass channel BP2 has a supply-side vertical portion BP2VS and a discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD. The supply-side vertical portions BP1VS and BP2VS are an example of a "second part". The discharge-side vertical portions BP1VD and BP2VD are an example of a "third part". The supply-side vertical portions BP1VS and BP2VS connect one end of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the bypass horizontal portion BPH, and extend from the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 in the Z1 direction, which is opposite to the Z2 direction. The discharge-side vertical portions BP1VD and BP2VD connect the other end of the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 and the bypass horizontal portion BPH, and extend from the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 in the Z1 direction.

[0200] The first bypass channel BP1 has a supply-side vertical portion BP1VS and a discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD, so that, when viewed in plan view, the bypass horizontal portion BP1H can overlap with a portion of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2. Similarly, the second bypass channel BP2 has a supply-side vertical portion BP2VS and a discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD, so that, when viewed in plan view, the bypass horizontal portion BP2H can overlap with a portion of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and a portion of the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2.

[0201] The system includes a supply channel Si for supplying liquid to a common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side, and a discharge channel Do for supplying liquid discharged from a common liquid chamber MN2 on the discharge side. A bypass horizontal portion BPH, a portion of the supply channel Si, and a portion of the discharge channel Do are formed in the same layer of multiple substrates. More specifically, the bypass horizontal portion BPH, the distribution channels SPH1 and SPH2 which are part of the supply channel Si, and the discharge horizontal channels DSH_1 to DSH_6 which are part of the discharge channel Do are formed in the same layer.

[0202] By forming the bypass horizontal section BPH, distribution channels SPH1 and SPH2, and discharge horizontal channels DSH_1 to DSH_6 in the same layer, the bypass horizontal section BPH, distribution channels SPH1 and SPH2, and discharge horizontal channels DSH_1 to DSH_6 can be formed using the same component, such as the first channel component Du1 and the second channel component Du2. Therefore, compared to a method where any one of the bypass horizontal section BPH, distribution channels SPH1 and SPH2, and discharge horizontal channels DSH_1 to DSH_6, and the other channels are in different layers, this embodiment can reduce the number of components in the liquid injection head 30.

[0203] Furthermore, multiple nozzles N are arranged in a nozzle array Ln in the V2 direction orthogonal to the Z2 direction. The supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 extend in the V2 direction. The liquid injection head 30 includes a wiring component 388 disposed between the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 when viewed in a plane in the Z2 direction. Figure 10 As illustrated, the wiring component 388 has a portion located in the V2 direction relative to the nozzle N among the plurality of nozzles N that is positioned closest to the V2 direction when viewed in planar view. Furthermore, as... Figure 10 As illustrated, the wiring component 388 has a portion located in the V1 direction relative to the nozzle N most closely positioned in the V1 direction among the plurality of nozzles N when viewed in plan view. The bypass horizontal portion BP1H has bends BP1Hb and BP1Hd that bend around the wiring component 388. Similarly, the bypass horizontal portion BP2H has bends BP2Hb and BP2Hd that bend around the wiring component 388.

[0204] In the above manner, the wiring component 388 has a portion located in the V2 direction relative to the nozzle N disposed most in the V2 direction among the plurality of nozzles N, and a portion located in the V1 direction relative to the nozzle N disposed most in the V1 direction among the plurality of nozzles N. That is, the length of the wiring component 388 in the V-axis direction is longer than the length from the nozzle N disposed most in the V2 direction among the plurality of nozzles N to the nozzle N disposed most in the V1 direction. The reason for the increased length of the wiring component 388 in the V-axis direction is that, in addition to having multiple wirings in the center corresponding to the plurality of nozzles N respectively, the wiring component 388 also has wirings shared by all the nozzles N among the plurality of nozzles N. Therefore, the first bypass channel BP1 cannot connect the bypass ports 3853a and 3853b by the shortest straight line when viewed in planar view. Similarly, the second bypass channel BP2 cannot connect the bypass ports 3853c and 3853d by the shortest straight line when viewed in planar view. However, in this embodiment, since the bypass horizontal portion BP1H has a bent portion BP1Hb and a bent portion BP1Hd, and the bypass horizontal portion BP2H has a bent portion BP2Hb and a bent portion BP2Hd, it is not necessary to offset the bypass horizontal portion BP1H and the bypass horizontal portion BP2H relative to the wiring component 388 in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, the liquid injection head 30 can be miniaturized in the Z-axis direction.

[0205] Furthermore, multiple substrates have a housing 385 defining a portion of a supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and a portion of a discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2. Multiple nozzles N communicating with the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 are arranged in a nozzle array Ln in a V2 direction orthogonal to the Z2 direction. The supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 extend in the V2 direction. Figure 10 as well as Figure 16 As illustrated, the bypass horizontal portion BP2H has a portion BP2H1 that does not overlap with the housing 385 when viewed in a planar orientation in the Z2 direction. On the other hand, the entire bypass horizontal portion BP1H overlaps with the housing 385 when viewed in a planar orientation in the Z2 direction. In this way, the bypass horizontal portion BPH can either completely overlap with the housing 385 when viewed in a planar orientation, or it can have a portion that does not overlap with the housing 385. Furthermore, by ensuring that the entire bypass horizontal portion BP1H overlaps with the housing 385 when viewed in a planar orientation in the Z-axis direction, the flow channel distribution section 37 can be miniaturized.

[0206] Furthermore, multiple substrates have multiple housings 385 and a first flow channel component Du1. The multiple housings 385 respectively define a portion of a supply-side common liquid chamber MN1, a portion of a discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2, a portion of a supply-side vertical portion BP1VS, and a portion of a supply-side vertical portion BP2VS. The first flow channel component Du1 defines multiple bypass horizontal portions BPH corresponding to the multiple housings 385, and portions of multiple supply-side vertical portions BP1VS and BP2VS corresponding to the multiple housings 385. The average flow channel resistance per unit length of the portion of the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS defined by the first flow channel component Du1 is larger than the average flow channel resistance per unit length of the portions of the supply-side vertical portions BP1VS defined by the multiple housings 385. Specifically, the flow channel resistance of the vertical portion BP1VSa defined by the first flow channel component Du1 in the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is the largest. Therefore, the designer of the liquid jet head 30 can accurately and easily change the flow resistance of the first bypass flow channel BP1 by replacing only the first flow channel component Du1 of the vertical portion BP1VSa, which defines the greatest flow channel resistance. The designer can accurately and easily change the ink pressure by adjusting the flow resistance of the first bypass flow channel BP1.

[0207] The reason why the flow resistance of the first bypass flow channel BP1 can be easily changed is that, when the first flow channel component Du1 is formed by injection molding, the cross-sectional area of ​​the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS can be easily changed by altering the thickness of the pin in the mold that forms the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS. Furthermore, even when the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is formed by piercing, the designer can easily change the cross-sectional area of ​​the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS by changing the thickness of the drill bit used in the piercing process.

[0208] The reason why the flow resistance of the first bypass channel BP1 can be changed with good precision will be explained. The flow resistance can also be changed by changing the cross-sectional area of ​​the bypass horizontal portion BP1H. However, when changing the flow resistance of the bypass horizontal portion BP1H, it is difficult to manufacture it with good precision to achieve the desired flow resistance due to the influence of three factors: the width of the bypass horizontal portion BP1H in the V-axis direction, the width in the W-axis direction, and the width in the Z-axis direction. On the other hand, the flow resistance of the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is only affected by the size of the pin used in injection molding or the size of the drill bit used in piercing. Through the above methods, the flow resistance of the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS can be changed with good precision compared to the flow resistance of the bypass horizontal portion BP1H.

[0209] Regarding the second bypass channel BP2, similarly to the first bypass channel BP1, the designer of the liquid injection head 30 can easily and precisely change the flow resistance of the second bypass channel BP2.

[0210] Furthermore, in the first bypass channel BP1, the average flow resistance per unit length of the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS and the discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD is greater than the average flow resistance per unit length of the bypass horizontal portion BP1H. Generally, the overall flow resistance of the channel depends significantly on the location of the portion with higher flow resistance. Therefore, by increasing the flow resistance of the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS and the discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD, which allow for precise and easy variation of flow resistance, the flow resistance of the first bypass channel BP1 can be precisely and easily varied. Similarly, in the second bypass channel BP2, the average flow resistance per unit length of the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS and the discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD is greater than the average flow resistance per unit length of the bypass horizontal portion BP2H.

[0211] Furthermore, the length in the Z1 direction of the first flow channel component Du1 in the supply-side vertical sections BP1VS and BP2VS is longer than the length in the Z1 direction of the housing 385 in the supply-side vertical sections BP1VS and BP2VS. The length in the Z1 direction of the first flow channel component Du1 in the supply-side vertical sections BP1VS and BP2VS is synonymous with the total length Ld in the Z1 direction of the vertical sections BP1VSa and BP1VSb. Furthermore, the length in the Z1 direction of the housing 385 in the supply-side vertical sections BP1VS and BP2VS is synonymous with the length Lc in the Z1 direction of the vertical section BP2VSc.

[0212] By making the length Ld longer than the length Lc, the length of the head unit 38 in the Z-axis direction can be shortened compared to the method where the length Ld is shorter than the length Lc. Furthermore, compared to the method where the length Ld is shorter than the length Lc, this embodiment can increase the maximum value of the flow resistance of the bypass flow channel BP formed in the first flow channel member Du1. That is, compared to the method where the length Ld is shorter than the length L, this embodiment can increase the range of variation of the flow resistance of the bypass flow channel BP.

[0213] Multiple substrates have multiple housings 385, a first flow channel component Du1, and a second flow channel component Du2. The multiple housings 385 respectively define a portion of a supply-side common liquid chamber MN1, a portion of a discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2, and a portion of a bypass flow channel BP. The first flow channel component Du1 is stacked relative to the multiple housings 385 in a Z1 direction, which is opposite to the Z2 direction. The second flow channel component Du2 is stacked relative to the first flow channel component Du1 in the Z1 direction. The liquid injection head 30 has a distribution flow channel SPH1 and a distribution flow channel SPH2. The distribution flow channels SPH1 and SPH2 distribute and supply ink to the multiple supply-side common liquid chambers MN1, which are respectively defined by the multiple housings 385. Figure 17 As illustrated, multiple bypass horizontal portions BP1H and BP2H, distribution channels SPH1 and SPH2H, corresponding to the multiple housings 385 respectively, are formed between the first channel component Du1 and the second channel component Du2. Furthermore, the bypass horizontal portions BP1H and BP2H corresponding to the housings 385 are the bypass horizontal portions BP1H and BP2H included in the bypass channel BP that communicates with the bypass port 3853 of the housing 385.

[0214] According to this embodiment, since the bypass horizontal portion BP1H, bypass horizontal portion BP2H, distribution channel SPH1, and distribution channel SPH2 can be constructed from the same components, the number of components of the liquid injection head 30 can be reduced compared to a method in which any one of the bypass horizontal portion BP1H, bypass horizontal portion BP2H, distribution channel SPH1, and distribution channel SPH2 is formed between the first channel component Du1 and the second channel component Du2.

[0215] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0216] Although Figure 1 As illustrated, the liquid jetting device 100 in the first embodiment is a so-called row-type liquid jetting device that performs printing solely by using the fixed head module 3 and conveying the medium PP; however, the structure of the liquid jetting device is not limited to the aforementioned structure. The liquid jetting device 100A in the second embodiment is a so-called serial-type liquid jetting device that performs printing by mounting one or more liquid jetting heads 30 on a carriage 911 and simultaneously conveying the medium PP while reciprocating the one or more liquid jetting heads 30 along the X-axis. The second embodiment will be described below.

[0217] Figure 22This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the liquid injection device 100A according to the second embodiment. The liquid injection device 100A differs from the liquid injection device 100 in that it has a control device 90A instead of a control device 90, a head module 3A instead of a head module 3, and a moving mechanism 91.

[0218] The moving mechanism 91, under the control of the control device 90A, causes the liquid injection head 30 to reciprocate in the X1 and X2 directions. Figure 22 In the example shown, the moving mechanism 91 has a box-shaped carriage 911 that holds two liquid injection heads 30, and a conveyor belt 912 that fixes the carriage 911. The conveyor belt 912 causes the carriage 911 to reciprocate in the X1 and X2 directions by a driving force from a drive source (not shown).

[0219] As described above, the liquid injection device 100A in the second embodiment includes a liquid injection head 30 and a moving mechanism 91. The moving mechanism 91 holds the liquid injection head 30 and reciprocates in the X1 and X2 directions, which are orthogonal to the Z2 direction.

[0220] When the liquid injection head 30 is used at an angle relative to the horizontal plane SF, in other words, when the nozzle surface FN rotates relative to the horizontal plane SF about a straight line along the X-axis, the generation of ink deposits can be reduced, just like in the first embodiment, since the V-axis direction is the direction that intersects the X-axis direction.

[0221] 3. Third Implementation Method

[0222] The liquid injection device 100B in the third embodiment has a structure in which four head modules 3 are arranged around the roller 921 that rotates and conveys the medium PP. The third embodiment will be described below.

[0223] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the liquid injection device 100B in the third embodiment. The liquid injection device 100B is the same as the liquid injection device 100, except that it has a conveying mechanism 92B instead of a conveying mechanism 92, and has multiple head modules 3. Furthermore, in Figure 23 The diagrams of the control device 90 and the circulation mechanism 94 are omitted.

[0224] exist Figure 23 In addition to being used in Figure 1In addition to the XYZ coordinate system used in the previous section, an xyz coordinate system, different from the XYZ coordinate system, will also be used for explanation. The xyz coordinate system is the global coordinate system. The xyz coordinate system is defined by the x1 direction, y1 direction, and z2 direction. The x1 direction is any direction parallel to the horizontal plane SF. The y1 direction is parallel to the horizontal plane SF and orthogonal to the x1 direction. The z2 direction is the direction of gravity. Furthermore, in the following explanation, the direction opposite to the x1 direction will be called the x2 direction. Moreover, the x1 direction and the x2 direction are collectively referred to as the x-axis direction. The direction opposite to the y1 direction will be called the y2 direction. The y1 direction and the y2 direction are collectively referred to as the y-axis direction. The direction opposite to the z2 direction will be called the z1 direction. The z1 direction and the z2 direction are collectively referred to as the z-axis direction. Figure 23 The figure shown is a view of the liquid injection device 100B viewed in the x2 direction. The XYZ coordinate system in the third embodiment exists for each head module 3.

[0225] like Figure 23 As illustrated, the conveying mechanism 92B includes a roller 921 for conveying the medium PP while it is adsorbed onto its outer peripheral surface, and a drive mechanism 922 such as a motor. The roller 921 is a cylindrical or cylindrical component having an outer peripheral surface surrounding a central axis Ax parallel to the x-axis direction. The roller 921 is driven to rotate around the central axis Ax by the drive mechanism 922. The outer peripheral surface of the roller 921 is charged by a starter (not shown). Through the electrostatic force generated by this charging, the medium PP is electrostatically adsorbed onto the outer peripheral surface of the roller 921.

[0226] Furthermore, the structure of the conveyor mechanism 92B is not limited to Figure 23 As shown in the examples, a belt can be used instead of the roller 921, or air adsorption can be used instead of electrostatic adsorption. In addition, the conveyor mechanism 92B has structural elements such as an electrostatic precipitator in addition to the aforementioned structural elements.

[0227] Head modules 3_1, 3_2, 3_3, and 3_4 are respectively positioned opposite the outer peripheral surface of roller 921. Head modules 3_1, 3_2, 3_3, and 3_4 are configured in the same manner as head module 3 in the first embodiment.

[0228] However, the orientations of head modules 3_1, 3_2, 3_3, and 3_4 around an axis parallel to the x-axis are different. Furthermore, the types of ink used in head modules 3_1, 3_2, 3_3, and 3_4 can be different for each head module 3. For example, if the colors of the inks used in head modules 3_1, 3_2, 3_3, and 3_4 are different for each head module 3, then yellow, magenta, turquoise, and black inks can be used.

[0229] To be more specific, head modules 3_1, 3_2, 3_3, and 3_4 are arranged in this order along the outer circumferential surface of the roller 921 in the circumferential direction CD of the central axis Ax. Furthermore, head modules 3_1, 3_2, 3_3, and 3_4 are respectively positioned at a position that rotates around a rotation axis extending in the X1 direction, which is the long side direction of head module 3, so that the nozzle surface FN is orthogonal to the radial direction RD of the central axis Ax of the roller 921, and is inclined relative to the horizontal plane SF.

[0230] However, although Figure 23 In the example, the nozzle surfaces FN of head modules 3_1, 3_2, 3_3, and 3_4 are inclined relative to the horizontal plane SF, but they can also be parallel relative to the horizontal plane SF. When the nozzle surfaces FN are parallel relative to the horizontal plane SF, the Y-axis direction of the head module 3 having the nozzle surfaces FN is parallel to the y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction of the head module 3 is parallel to the z-axis direction.

[0231] The X-axis direction of header modules 3_1, 3_2, 3_3, and 3_4 is parallel to the x-axis direction. Therefore, header modules 3_1, 3_2, 3_3, and 3_4 are long, strip-shaped headers in the x-axis direction.

[0232] The positional relationships of head module 3 are explained below. When observing in a plane along the z-axis, head module 3_4 is positioned relative to head module 3_1 in the y1 direction, which is orthogonal to the x-axis. Similarly, when observing in a plane along the z-axis, head module 3_3 is positioned relative to head module 3_2 in the y1 direction.

[0233] Furthermore, head modules 3_1 and 3_2 are examples of a "first-row head". When head module 3_1 is equivalent to a "first-row head", head module 3_4 is equivalent to a "second-row head". When head module 3_2 is equivalent to a "first-row head", head module 3_3 is equivalent to a "second-row head". In the third embodiment, the x1 and x2 directions are examples of a "fifth direction". The y1 direction is an example of a "sixth direction". However, when the nozzle surface FN is parallel to the horizontal plane SF, the Y1 direction of the head module 3 having the nozzle surface FN is the same as the y1 direction.

[0234] The head module 3_1 is configured at an angle such that the end of the nozzle surface FN of the head module 3_1 in the y1 direction is located in the z1 direction relative to the end of the nozzle surface FN of the head module 3_1 in the y2 direction, which is the opposite direction to the y1 direction. Similarly, the head module 3_2 is configured at an angle such that the end of the nozzle surface FN of the head module 3_2 in the y1 direction is located in the z1 direction relative to the end of the nozzle surface FN of the head module 3_2 in the y2 direction, which is the opposite direction to the y1 direction.

[0235] Additionally, when head module 3_1 is equivalent to a "first row head", the nozzle surface FN of head module 3_1 is equivalent to a "first nozzle surface". When head module 3_2 is equivalent to a "first row head", the nozzle surface FN of head module 3_2 is equivalent to a "first nozzle surface". An example where the y2 direction is the "seventh direction".

[0236] Head module 3_3 is configured at an angle such that the end of the nozzle surface FN in the y1 direction of head module 3_3 is located in the z2 direction relative to the end of the nozzle surface FN in the y2 direction of head module 3_3. Similarly, head module 3_4 is configured at an angle such that the end of the nozzle surface FN in the y1 direction of head module 3_4 is located in the z2 direction relative to the end of the nozzle surface FN in the y2 direction of head module 3_4.

[0237] Furthermore, the tilt angle θ1 of the nozzle surface FN of head module 3_1 relative to the horizontal plane SF is equal to the tilt angle θ4 of the nozzle surface FN of head module 3_4 relative to the horizontal plane SF. Similarly, the tilt angle θ2 of the nozzle surface FN of head module 3_2 relative to the horizontal plane SF is equal to the tilt angle θ3 of the nozzle surface FN of head module 3_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.

[0238] In the third embodiment described above, the liquid injection head 30 within head modules 3_1, 3_2, 3_3, and 3_4 includes a nozzle surface FN. The nozzle surface FN has a plurality of nozzles N. The nozzle surface FN is orthogonal to the radial direction RD of the axis along the x-axis and inclined relative to the horizontal plane SF. Furthermore, the x-axis direction is a direction that intersects the V-axis direction. According to the third embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, it is possible to suppress the generation of ink deposits at the ends of the common liquid chamber MN1 on the supply side and the common liquid chamber MN2 on the discharge side in the opposite direction of gravity, and to reduce the retention of air bubbles.

[0239] Even liquid injection devices including head modules configured such as head modules 3_2 and 3_3, head modules 3_1 and 3_4, which include a component in the z1 direction in the V1 direction, and head modules configured in the V2 direction, can improve exhaust performance because bypass channels BP are provided near the ends in both the V1 and V2 directions. In other words, a liquid injection device including head modules configured in the V1 direction and head modules configured in the V2 direction, comprising multiple head modules with rotational directions opposite to the central axis Ax, can also improve exhaust performance.

[0240] Furthermore, although the above description states that header modules 3_1 and 3_2 are examples of a "first-line header," header modules 3_3 and 3_4 can also be examples of a "first-line header." When header module 3_3 is equivalent to a "first-line header," header module 3_2 is equivalent to a "second-line header." Conversely, when header module 3_4 is equivalent to a "first-line header," header module 3_1 is equivalent to a "second-line header." The y2 direction is equivalent to the "sixth direction," and the y1 direction is equivalent to the "seventh direction."

[0241] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the tilt angle θ1 is equal to the tilt angle θ4. Therefore, compared to a situation where the tilt angles θ1 and θ4 are different, the probability that the bubble generation position in head module 3_1 and the generation position in head module 3_4 are close to being linearly symmetrical about the xz plane passing through the central axis Ax is higher. Therefore, in head module 3_1 and head module 3_4, the operating conditions for bubble discharge, in other words, the maintenance operating time, can be set to be the same. More specifically, the time for performing maintenance for discharging bubbles in head module 3_1 and the time for performing maintenance for discharging bubbles in head module 3_4 can be set to the same time. Therefore, according to the third embodiment, the settings for bubble discharge maintenance can be simplified.

[0242] 4. Variations

[0243] The methods illustrated above can be modified in a variety of ways. The following examples illustrate specific modifications that can be applied to the aforementioned methods. Two or more methods selected from the following examples can be appropriately combined within the bounds of non-contradiction.

[0244] 4.1. First Variation Example

[0245] Although the bypass horizontal portion BPH in each of the above methods is bent around the wiring component 388, the bypass horizontal portion BPH may not be bent if the length of the wiring component 388 in the V-axis direction is shorter than the length from the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS to the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS.

[0246] Figure 24 A plan view of the head element 38D in the first modified example when viewed in the Z2 direction. Figure 24 The figure shown illustrates the positional relationship between the first bypass channel BP1D, the second bypass channel BP2D, and the wiring component 388D in the first modified example. The wiring component 388D is represented by a single-dot dashed line.

[0247] like Figure 24 As illustrated, the first bypass channel BP1D has a supply-side vertical portion BP1VS, a bypass horizontal portion BP1HD, and a discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD. Figure 24 As illustrated, in the V-axis direction, the V2-direction end of the wiring component 388D is located closer to the V1-direction end of the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS and the discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD. Therefore, the bypass horizontal portion BP1HD may not have a bend. The bypass horizontal portion BP1HD extends along the W-axis direction and communicates with the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS at its W1-direction end and with the discharge-side vertical portion BP1VD at its W2-direction end.

[0248] like Figure 24 As illustrated, the second bypass channel BP2D has a supply-side vertical portion BP2VS, a bypass horizontal portion BP2HD, and a discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD. For example... Figure 24 As illustrated, in the V-axis direction, the V1 end of the wiring component 388D is located closer to the V2 direction than the V2 end of the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS and the V2 end of the discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD. Therefore, the bypass horizontal portion BP2HD may not have a bend. The bypass horizontal portion BP2HD extends along the W-axis direction and communicates with the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS at its W1 end and with the discharge-side vertical portion BP2VD at its W2 end.

[0249] 4.2. Second variation

[0250] While the supply channel Si in the various embodiments described above includes distribution channels SPH1 and SPH2 located at the same layer as the bypass horizontal portion BPH, and the discharge channel Do includes discharge horizontal channels DSH_1 to DSH_6 located at the same layer as the bypass horizontal portion BPH, this is not a limitation. For example, one of the supply channel Si and the discharge channel Do may not have a channel at the same layer as the bypass horizontal portion BPH. In other words, the bypass horizontal portion BPH, a portion of the supply channel Si, and a portion of the discharge channel Do may also be formed in the same layer. Specifically, there are two embodiments as shown below. The first embodiment is that the supply channel Si includes distribution channels SPH1 and SPH2, and the discharge channel Do does not have a channel along the VW plane between the first channel component Du1 and the second channel component Du2. The second embodiment is that the supply channel Si does not have a channel along the VW plane between the first channel component Du1 and the second channel component Du2, while the discharge channel Do has discharge horizontal channels DSH_1 to DSH_6.

[0251] According to the second variation, since the supply channel Si and the discharge channel Do do do not have a channel along the VW plane between the first channel component Du1 and the second channel component Du2, one of the supply channel Si and the discharge channel Do and the bypass horizontal portion BPH can be constituted by the same component, thus reducing the number of components of the liquid injection head 30.

[0252] 4.3. Third variation

[0253] Although in the first, second, third, and first modifications described above, distribution channels SPH1 and SPH2 are formed in the distribution section 37, and discharge manifold channels DUo1 and DUo2 are formed in the distribution structure 34, the invention is not limited thereto. The liquid injection head 30 in the third modification has a distribution channel in the distribution structure 34 that distributes and supplies ink to multiple supply-side common liquid chambers MN1, and a manifold channel in the distribution section 37 that allows ink discharged from multiple discharge-side common liquid chambers MN2 to converge.

[0254] That is, in the liquid injection head 30 of the third modification, multiple substrates have multiple housings 385, a first flow channel component Du1, and a second flow channel component Du2. The multiple housings 385 respectively define a portion of a supply-side common liquid chamber MN1, a portion of a discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2, and a portion of a bypass flow channel BP. The first flow channel component Du1 is stacked relative to the multiple housings 385 in a direction opposite to the Z1 direction. The second flow channel component Du2 is stacked relative to the first flow channel component Du1 in a direction opposite to the Z1 direction. The liquid injection head 30 has a confluence flow channel for converging liquid discharged from the multiple discharge-side common liquid chambers MN2 defined by the multiple housings 385. Multiple first portions and confluence flow channels corresponding to the multiple housings 385 are formed between the first flow channel component Du1 and the second flow channel component Du2.

[0255] According to the third variation, since the bypass horizontal portion BPH and the aforementioned manifold can be constructed from the same identical components, the number of components of the liquid injection head 30 can be reduced compared to the aforementioned manifold being formed at a location other than between the first manifold component Du1 and the second manifold component Du2.

[0256] The effects of the first embodiment, based on the differences between the first embodiment and the third variation, will be explained. Generally, when flow channels converge, the flow velocity increases, and there is a tendency for pressure loss to also increase. Furthermore, considering the influence of pressure on the nozzle N, it is desirable to reduce pressure loss in the discharge flow channel Do compared to the supply flow channel Si. Therefore, compared to the third variation in which ink is distributed to the flow channel structure 34 in the supply flow channel Si, the first embodiment, because the ink converging portion is longer, results in a higher flow velocity and improved bubble removal. Furthermore, compared to the third variation in which the discharge flow channel Do has a converging flow channel in the flow channel distribution section 37 for ink converging, the first embodiment, because the ink converging portion is shorter, results in lower flow channel resistance and reduced pressure fluctuations in the nozzle N.

[0257] 4.4. Fourth Variation Example

[0258] Although in the various methods described above, the housing 385 defines a portion of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and a portion of the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2, it may also define the entire supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 or the entire discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2.

[0259] 4.5. Fifth Variation

[0260] In the aforementioned configurations, the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is located in the V1 direction relative to the independent flow channel RJ positioned closest to the V2 direction. While the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS is located in the V2 direction relative to the independent flow channel RJ positioned closest to the V1 direction, this is not a limitation. For example, it could be configured such that the supply-side vertical portion BP1VS is located in the V2 direction relative to the independent flow channel RJ positioned closest to the V2 direction, and the supply-side vertical portion BP2VS is located in the V1 direction relative to the independent flow channel RJ positioned closest to the V1 direction. For example... Figure 18 The first embodiment shown is such that the vertical portion BP1VS on the supply side is located in the V2 direction relative to the independent flow channel RJ which is located closest to the V2 direction.

[0261] In the fifth modification, by forming the bypass horizontal portion BPH in a different layer than the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2, the bypass horizontal portion BPH overlaps with a portion of the supply-side common liquid chamber MN1 and the discharge-side common liquid chamber MN2 when viewed in a planar manner. Therefore, the fifth modification, like the first embodiment, also enables the miniaturization of the liquid injection head 30 in the W-axis and V-axis directions.

[0262] 4.6. Sixth Variation

[0263] In each of the above methods, the liquid jet head 30 may also have a heating element instead of the piezoelectric element used in the above methods, serving as an energy generating element for generating energy in the pressure chamber CB for ink jetting.

[0264] 4.7. Other variations

[0265] The liquid jetting apparatus 100 described above can be used not only in printing equipment but also in various other equipment such as fax machines and copiers. The application of the liquid jetting apparatus 100 of the present invention is not limited to printing. For example, the liquid jetting apparatus for jetting solutions of color materials is used as a manufacturing apparatus for color filters in liquid crystal display devices. Furthermore, the liquid jetting apparatus for jetting solutions of conductive materials is used as a manufacturing apparatus for wiring and electrodes in wiring boards.

[0266] 5. Postscript

[0267] Based on the examples above, for instance, the following structure has been mastered.

[0268] The liquid injection head according to preferred embodiment 1 is constructed by stacking multiple substrates in a first direction and includes: multiple independent flow channels, each communicating with multiple nozzles for injecting liquid in the first direction; a supply-side common liquid chamber extending in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicating with the multiple independent flow channels, and supplying liquid to the multiple independent flow channels; a discharge-side common liquid chamber extending in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicating with the multiple independent flow channels, and allowing liquid discharged from the multiple independent flow channels to flow; and a bypass flow channel connecting the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber, wherein the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the multiple substrates, and the bypass flow channel has a first portion formed in a layer of the multiple substrates that is different from the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber.

[0269] According to method 1, compared with the method in which the first part, the common liquid chamber on the supply side, and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side are located in the same layer, the liquid injection head can be miniaturized in the direction parallel to the nozzle surface.

[0270] In embodiment 2, which is a specific example of embodiment 1, the bypass channel has: a second portion that connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and one end of the first portion, and extends from the supply-side common liquid chamber in a direction opposite to the first direction; and a third portion that connects the discharge-side common liquid chamber and the other end of the first portion, and extends from the discharge-side common liquid chamber in the opposite direction.

[0271] According to method 2, when viewed in a plane, the first part can overlap with a part of the common liquid chamber on the supply side and a part of the common liquid chamber on the discharge side.

[0272] In embodiment 3, which is a specific example of embodiment 1 or 2, the embodiment includes: a supply channel that supplies liquid to the supply-side common liquid chamber; and a discharge channel for liquid discharged from the discharge-side common liquid chamber to flow through, wherein at least one of a portion of the supply channel and a portion of the discharge channel and the first portion are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates.

[0273] According to method 3, since at least one of the supply channel and the discharge channel and the first part can be formed by the same component, compared with the method where the supply channel and the discharge channel do not have a channel formed between the first channel component and the second channel component, the number of components of the liquid injection head can be reduced.

[0274] In embodiment 4, which is a specific example of embodiment 1 or 2, the embodiment includes: a supply channel that supplies liquid to the supply-side common liquid chamber; and a discharge channel for liquid discharged from the discharge-side common liquid chamber to flow through, wherein the first portion, a portion of the supply channel, and a portion of the discharge channel are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates.

[0275] According to method 4, since the first part, a part of the supply channel, and a part of the discharge channel can be constructed by the same component, compared with the method where the supply channel and the discharge channel do not have a channel formed between the first channel component and the second channel component, the number of components of the liquid injection head can be reduced.

[0276] In embodiment 5, which is a specific example of any one of embodiments 1 to 4, the plurality of nozzles are arranged in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction to form a nozzle array, the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber extend in the second direction, the liquid injection head has a wiring component that is disposed between the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber when viewed in a plane view towards the first direction, the wiring component having a portion located in the second direction relative to the nozzle disposed closest to the second direction among the plurality of nozzles when viewed in the plane, the first portion having a bend that bends around the wiring component.

[0277] According to method 5, since the first part has a curved portion, it is not necessary to offset the first part relative to the wiring component in the first direction, thus enabling the liquid injection head to be miniaturized in the first direction.

[0278] In embodiment 6, which is a specific example of any one of embodiments 1 to 5, the plurality of substrates have a housing that defines part or all of the supply-side common liquid chamber and part or all of the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The plurality of nozzles communicating with the supply-side common liquid chamber are arranged in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction to form a nozzle array. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber extend in the second direction. The first portion has a portion that does not overlap with the housing when viewed in a plane observed in the first direction.

[0279] In embodiment 7, which is a specific example of any one of embodiments 1 to 5, the plurality of substrates have a housing that defines part or all of the supply-side common liquid chamber and part or all of the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The plurality of nozzles communicating with the supply-side common liquid chamber are arranged in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction to form a nozzle array. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber extend in the second direction. The entire first portion overlaps with the housing when viewed in a plane observed in the first direction.

[0280] According to method 7, compared to the method in which the first part has a portion that does not overlap with the outer shell when viewed in a plane in the first direction, the component defining the first part can be miniaturized.

[0281] In embodiment 8, which is embodiment 2 or any one of embodiments 3 to 6 of embodiment 2, the plurality of substrates have: a plurality of housings that define part or all of the supply-side common liquid chamber, part or all of the discharge-side common liquid chamber, and a part of the second portion; a first flow channel component that defines a plurality of first portions corresponding to the plurality of housings and a part of a plurality of second portions corresponding to the plurality of housings, wherein the average flow channel resistance per unit length of the part of the second portion defined by the first flow channel component is larger than the average flow channel resistance per unit length of the part of the second portion defined by the plurality of housings.

[0282] According to method 8, the designer of the liquid injection device can easily and accurately change the flow resistance of the bypass flow channel simply by replacing the first flow channel component in the vertical section where the flow resistance is greatest.

[0283] In embodiment 9, which is a specific example of embodiment 8, the length of the first flow channel component in the second part in the first direction is longer than the length of the housing in the second part in the first direction.

[0284] According to method 9, compared to the method where the length of the first flow channel component in the second part in the first direction is shorter than the length of the housing in the second part in the first direction, the variable range of the flow channel resistance of the bypass flow channel can be increased.

[0285] In embodiment 10, which is a specific example of any one of embodiments 1 to 5, the plurality of substrates have: a plurality of housings that define part or all of the supply-side common liquid chamber, part or all of the discharge-side common liquid chamber, and a portion of the bypass channel; a first channel component that is stacked relative to the plurality of housings in a direction opposite to the first direction; a second channel component that is stacked relative to the first channel component in the opposite direction; the liquid injection head having a distribution channel that distributes and supplies liquid to the plurality of supply-side common liquid chambers defined by the plurality of housings respectively; the distribution channel and a plurality of first portions corresponding to the plurality of housings respectively are formed between the first channel component and the second channel component.

[0286] According to method 10, since the first part and the distribution channel can be constructed by the same component, the number of components of the liquid injection head can be reduced compared to the method in which either the first part or the distribution channel is formed at a location other than between the first channel component and the second channel component.

[0287] In embodiment 11, which is a specific example of any one of embodiments 1 to 5, the plurality of substrates have: a plurality of housings that define part or all of the supply-side common liquid chamber, part or all of the discharge-side common liquid chamber, and a portion of the bypass channel; a first channel component that is stacked relative to the plurality of housings in a direction opposite to the first direction; a second channel component that is stacked relative to the first channel component in the opposite direction; the liquid jet head having a confluence channel that allows liquid discharged from the plurality of discharge-side common liquid chambers defined by the plurality of housings to converge; the confluence channel and a plurality of first portions corresponding to the plurality of housings are formed between the first channel component and the second channel component.

[0288] According to method 11, since the first part and the confluence channel can be constructed by the same component, the number of components of the liquid injection head can be reduced compared to the method in which either the first part or the confluence channel is formed at a location other than between the first channel component and the second channel component.

[0289] As a preferred embodiment, the liquid injection device according to embodiment 12 includes a liquid injection head as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 10.

[0290] According to method 12, a liquid injection device having a miniaturized liquid injection head in a direction parallel to the nozzle surface can be provided.

[0291] In embodiment 13, which is a specific example of embodiment 12, a circulation mechanism is provided that circulates the liquid supplied to the liquid nozzle.

[0292] According to method 13, since air bubbles and dust mixed in the liquid are returned to the circulation mechanism along with the circulating liquid, nozzle clogging is reduced. Therefore, liquid replacement and cleaning maintenance of the liquid injection head are easy to perform.

[0293] Symbol Explanation

[0294] 3, 3A… Head module; 13… Head fixing base plate; 15… Mounting hole; 30… Liquid injection head; 31… Frame; 32… Cover base plate; 33… Assembly base plate; 34… Flow channel structure; 35… Wiring base plate; 37… Flow channel distribution section; 38, 38D… Head unit; 39… Fixing plate; 90… Control device; 91… Moving mechanism; 92, 92B… Conveying mechanism; 93… Liquid container; 94… Circulation mechanism; 100, 100A, 100B… Liquid injection device; 382… Connecting plate; 383…Pressure chamber base plate; 384…Vibrating plate; 385…Outer shell; 387…Nozzle plate; 388, 388D…Wiring components; 921…Roller; 922…Drive mechanism; 3851…Inlet; 3852…Outlet; 3853…Bypass port; 3861…Plastic base plate; Ax…Central shaft; BP…Bypass channel; BP1, BP1D…First bypass channel; BPH, BP1H, BP1HD, BP2H, BP2HD…Bypass horizontal section; BP1VD, BP… 2VD…Discharge side vertical section; BP1VS, BP2VS…Supply side vertical section; BP2…Bypass channel; BP2, BP2D…Second bypass channel; BP2H1…Section; CB…Pressure chamber; CI1, CI2…Inlet; DSH…Discharge horizontal channel; DSV…Outlet channel; Do…Discharge channel; FN…Nozzle face; Ln…Nozzle array; MN1…Supply side common liquid chamber; MN1a…V2 end region; MN1aC…Cross-sectional area; MN1aS…Surface; MN 1b…V2 connected region; MN1bC…cross-sectional area; MN1bS…surface; MN2…common liquid chamber on the discharge side; N…nozzle; PP…medium; PZ…piezoelectric element; RJ…independent flow channel; SCi1, SCi2…common supply flow channel; SDi1, SDi2…supply distribution flow channel; SF…horizontal plane; SPH1, SPH2…distribution flow channel; SPV…inlet flow channel; Si…supply flow channel; Si1, Si2…first supply flow channel; θ1, θ2, θ3, θ4…inclination angle.

Claims

1. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply channel supplies liquid to the common liquid chamber on the supply side. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The first portion extends in a direction intersecting the first direction. The first portion and the portion of the supply channel extending in the direction intersecting the first direction are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates.

2. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The bypass channel has: The second part connects the supply-side common liquid chamber to one end of the first part and extends from the supply-side common liquid chamber in a direction opposite to the first direction. The third part connects the discharge-side common liquid chamber to the other end of the first part and extends from the discharge-side common liquid chamber in the opposite direction.

3. The liquid injection head as described in claim 2, wherein, have: A supply channel that supplies liquid to the common liquid chamber on the supply side; and A discharge channel for the flow of liquid discharged from the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. At least one of the portion of the supply channel and the portion of the discharge channel, along with the first portion, is formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates.

4. The liquid injection head as described in claim 2, wherein, have: A supply channel that supplies liquid to the common liquid chamber on the supply side; and A discharge channel for the flow of liquid discharged from the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The first portion, a portion of the supply channel, and a portion of the discharge channel are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates.

5. The liquid injection head as described in claim 2, wherein, The plurality of substrates have: Multiple housings that define part or all of the supply-side common liquid chamber, part or all of the discharge-side common liquid chamber, and part of the second portion; A first flow channel component defines a plurality of first portions corresponding to the plurality of housings and a portion of a plurality of second portions corresponding to the plurality of housings. The average flow resistance per unit length of a portion of the second part defined by the first flow channel component is larger than the average flow resistance per unit length of a portion of the second part defined by the plurality of housings respectively.

6. The liquid injection head as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The length of the first flow channel component in the second part in the first direction is longer than the length of the outer casing in the second part in the first direction.

7. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The plurality of nozzles are arranged in a nozzle array by means of a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side extend in the second direction. The liquid injection head includes a wiring component, which is positioned between the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber when viewed in a plane facing the first direction. The wiring component has a portion located in the second direction relative to the nozzle most closely positioned in the second direction among the plurality of nozzles when viewed in the plane. The first portion has a bend that bends around the wiring component.

8. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The plurality of substrates have a housing that defines part or all of the common liquid chamber on the supply side and part or all of the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The plurality of nozzles communicating with the common liquid chamber on the supply side are arranged in a nozzle array by means of a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side extend in the second direction. The first portion has a portion that does not overlap with the outer shell when viewed from a plane in the first direction.

9. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The plurality of substrates have a housing that defines part or all of the common liquid chamber on the supply side and part or all of the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The plurality of nozzles communicating with the common liquid chamber on the supply side are arranged in a nozzle array by means of a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side extend in the second direction. The entire first portion overlaps with the outer shell when viewed in a plane viewed in the first direction.

10. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The plurality of substrates have: Multiple housings that define part or all of the supply-side common liquid chamber, part or all of the discharge-side common liquid chamber, and part of the bypass channel; A first flow channel component is stacked relative to the plurality of housings in a direction opposite to the first direction; The second flow channel component is stacked in the opposite direction relative to the first flow channel component. The liquid injection head has a distribution channel that distributes and supplies liquid to multiple common supply-side liquid chambers defined by the multiple housings. The distribution channel and the plurality of first portions corresponding to the plurality of housings are formed between the first channel component and the second channel component.

11. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The plurality of substrates have: Multiple housings that define part or all of the supply-side common liquid chamber, part or all of the discharge-side common liquid chamber, and part of the bypass channel; A first flow channel component is stacked relative to the plurality of housings in a direction opposite to the first direction; The second flow channel component is stacked in the opposite direction relative to the first flow channel component. The liquid injection head has a confluence channel that allows liquids discharged from a plurality of common discharge chambers defined by the plurality of housings to converge. The confluence channel and the plurality of first portions corresponding to the plurality of housings are formed between the first channel component and the second channel component.

12. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The plurality of nozzles are arranged in a nozzle array by means of a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The first portion intersects with the nozzle array when viewed in the first direction.

13. The liquid injection head as claimed in claim 12, wherein, The first portion is positioned between two nozzles located at both ends in the second direction when viewed in the first direction.

14. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The first portion extends in the direction in which the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side are arranged when viewed in the first direction.

15. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The first portion overlaps with the independent flow channel when viewed in the first direction.

16. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The first portion is configured in a direction opposite to the direction in which the nozzle opens, relative to the common liquid chamber on the supply side.

17. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The layer in which the first portion is formed in the plurality of substrates is different from the layer in which the independent flow channels are formed.

18. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The common liquid chamber on the supply side, the common liquid chamber on the discharge side, and the independent flow channels are formed in a connecting plate. The first portion is formed in a substrate different from the connecting plate.

19. A liquid injection head, which is constructed by stacking a plurality of substrates in a first direction, and includes: Multiple independent flow channels are connected to multiple nozzles that spray liquid in the first direction, respectively; A common liquid chamber on the supply side extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and supplies liquid to the plurality of independent flow channels; A discharge-side common liquid chamber extends in a direction intersecting the first direction and communicates with the plurality of independent flow channels, and is used for the flow of liquid discharged from the plurality of independent flow channels; A bypass channel connects the supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber. A discharge channel for the flow of liquid discharged from the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The supply-side common liquid chamber and the discharge-side common liquid chamber are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates. The bypass channel has a first portion, which is formed in a layer in the plurality of substrates that is different from the common liquid chamber on the supply side and the common liquid chamber on the discharge side. The first portion extends in a direction intersecting the first direction. The first portion and the portion of the discharge channel extending in the direction intersecting the first direction are formed in the same layer of the plurality of substrates.

20. A liquid injection device, wherein, It has a liquid injection head as described in any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. The liquid injection device as claimed in claim 20, wherein, It has a circulation mechanism that circulates the liquid supplied to the liquid nozzle.

Citation Information

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