Liquid storage container and liquid ejection apparatus

Abstract

A liquid storage container and a liquid ejection apparatus, the liquid storage container including: a storage chamber; a supply port capable of supplying a liquid into the storage chamber; a hollow protruding portion protruding from the supply port; and a plug member attachable and detachable to the supply port. The plug member includes: a plug portion for sealing the supply port; a cap portion integrally formed with the plug portion; a pinch portion including a first portion and a second portion disposed on the cap portion opposite to each other; and a hollow portion extending from the cap portion through the plug portion. The plug portion and the cap portion are composed of an elastomer, and the hollow portion has an opening on the cap portion side. By pinching the first portion and the second portion, a width of the opening is narrowed, and a side surface of the plug portion is deformed toward the hollow portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid storage container capable of being refilled with liquid and a liquid spraying device including said liquid storage container. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, liquid jetting equipment that sprays liquids such as ink includes a liquid storage container for storing the liquid. Some liquid storage containers can be refilled with liquid.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-20497 describes a liquid storage container into which liquid can be injected. The liquid storage container described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-20497 includes: a storage chamber for storing liquid; an inlet for injecting liquid into the storage chamber; and a plug member for sealing the inlet. The plug member is press-fitted into the inlet and is detachable and attachable. When the storage chamber is refilled with liquid, the plug member is removed from the inlet and liquid is injected into the storage chamber through the inlet.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-157726 describes a tank unit in which liquid-capturing protrusions for capturing liquid are formed near the inlet.

[0005] However, in the liquid storage container described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-20497, there is a situation where liquid adheres to the plug member of the sealed inlet. For example, there are cases where liquid adheres to the plug member due to the shaking of the liquid in the storage chamber caused by the movement of the liquid jetting device. Therefore, the liquid that has adhered to the plug member may sometimes be splashed to the outside due to the reaction or impact when the plug member is removed from the inlet.

[0006] Similarly, in the tank unit described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-157726, due to the large reaction and impact when opening, the liquid that has adhered to the plug component sometimes splashes outside the liquid capturing protrusion.

[0007] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems and its purpose is to suppress the splashing of liquid when opened. Summary of the Invention

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, a liquid storage container according to one aspect of the invention comprises: a storage chamber for storing liquid; a supply port including a hollow protrusion extending from the storage chamber and capable of supplying liquid into the storage chamber; and a plug member attachable and detachably attached to the supply port. The plug member comprises: a plug portion inserted into the protrusion to seal the supply port; a cap portion integrally formed with the plug portion and covering the supply port from outside the storage chamber while the plug portion is inserted into the protrusion; a clamping portion disposed on the cap portion and including a first portion and a second portion opposing each other; and a hollow portion located between the first portion and the second portion and extending from the cap portion into the plug portion. The plug portion and the cap portion are made of an elastomer, and the hollow portion has an opening on the cap portion side. By clamping the first portion and the second portion, the width of the opening narrows and the side of the plug portion deforms toward the hollow portion.

[0009] According to another aspect of the invention, a liquid storage container includes: a storage chamber for storing liquid; a supply port including a hollow protrusion extending from the storage chamber and capable of supplying liquid into the storage chamber; and a plug member made of an elastomer and configured such that a front end portion of the elastomer is inserted into the protrusion. The plug member includes: a hollow portion extending from the elastomer toward the front end portion; and a pinching portion disposed on a rear end of the elastomer and deforming the side of the front end portion toward the hollow portion. The pinching portion includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion and the second portion being opposite each other in a first direction intersecting the hollow portion with the hollow portion therebetween, and the front end portion being more likely to deform in the first direction than in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.

[0010] Other features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the external appearance of a liquid spraying device to which the liquid storage container of the present invention is applicable.

[0012] Figure 2 It is used for explanation Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the configuration of the liquid jetting device is shown.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of refilling a liquid storage container with liquid.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing a liquid storage container according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the plug component of the liquid storage container according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 6A and Figure 6B It is shown Figure 5 The diagram shows a schematic of the cross-sectional structure of the plug component.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the cross-sectional structure of the plug component of a liquid storage container as a comparative example.

[0018] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a perspective view showing the plug component of a liquid storage container according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 9A and Figure 9B It is shown Figure 8A and Figure 8B A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the plug component is shown.

[0020] Figure 10A and Figure 10B This is a schematic diagram showing the cross-sectional structure of the plug member of the liquid storage container according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 11A and Figure 11B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the plug component of a liquid storage container according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 12A , Figure 12B and Figure 12C It is shown Figure 11A and Figure 11B A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the plug component is shown.

[0023] Figure 13A and Figure 13B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the plug component of a liquid storage container according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 14A and Figure 14B It is shown Figure 13A and Figure 13B A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the plug component is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Embodiments of the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the constituent elements described in the embodiments are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these.

[0026] (First Embodiment)

[0027] First, a liquid spraying device applicable to the liquid storage container of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0028] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the liquid jetting device. Figure 2 It is used for explanation Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the configuration of the liquid jetting device is shown.

[0029] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The liquid jetting device 200 includes a feeding section 1, a conveying section 2, a jetting section 3, a liquid supply section 4, a display section 5, and a liquid storage section 6. The feeding section 1 includes a tray and a feed roller 10. Multiple sheets of printing paper are stacked and stored in the tray. The feed roller separates the sheets of printing paper stored in the tray one by one and supplies the printing paper to the conveying section 2.

[0030] The conveying section 2 includes a conveying roller 11, a transfer roller 12, and a pressure plate 13. The pressure plate 13 is arranged between the conveying roller 11 and the transfer roller 12. The conveying roller 11 conveys the printing paper supplied from the feeding section 1 onto the pressure plate 13. The pressure plate 13 holds the printing paper. The transfer roller 12 conveys the printing paper conveyed on the pressure plate 13.

[0031] The liquid ejector head 15 includes an ejection section 3 that ejects a liquid such as ink. A carriage 14 is located above the pressure plate 13 and is movable in a direction intersecting the paper transport direction (main scanning direction) (sub-scanning direction). The liquid ejector head 15 is mounted on the carriage 14, and the ejection section 3 ejects liquid toward the paper on the pressure plate 13. In this way, an image can be formed on the paper based on image information.

[0032] The liquid storage container 16 is a liquid storage container according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The liquid storage container 16 includes a storage chamber 100 for storing liquid, an atmospheric connection port 102, a plug member 105, and a supply port 106. The supply port 106 allows liquid to be supplied to the storage chamber 100. The plug member 105 is attachably and detachably attached to the supply port 106. The storage chamber 100 is fluidly connected to a liquid injection head 15 via a liquid supply section 4. The liquid supply section 4 includes a flow channel 101 and a flexible supply tube 17 located downstream of the flow channel 101. Depending on the amount of liquid injected by the injection section 3, liquid is supplied from the storage chamber 100 to the liquid injection head 15 through the flow channel 101 and the supply tube 17.

[0033] Here, four colors of liquid (e.g., black, magenta, cyan, and yellow) are used, and a liquid storage container 16, a flow channel 101, and a supply pipe 17 are provided for each color of liquid. It should be noted that the liquid colors are examples, and the liquids used are not limited to four colors. A single color of liquid can be used, or two or more colors of liquid can be used.

[0034] Display section 5 displays information required to operate the liquid injection device 200 (operation status, operation items, menus, etc.). Liquid storage section 6 houses liquid storage container 16. Liquid storage section 6 includes an openable and closable cover 7. With cover 7 open, liquid storage container 16 housed in liquid storage section 6 can be refilled with liquid.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the refilling of liquid into the liquid storage container 16 housed in the liquid storage section 6. (Example) Figure 3 As shown, when the liquid storage container 16 needs to be refilled, the cap 7 is opened, the plug member 105 is removed from the supply port 106, and the liquid is supplied from the supply port 106 to the storage chamber 100 using the liquid refill container 201. It should be noted that although in this embodiment the liquid storage container 16 is housed within the liquid storage portion 6 of the device body, the configuration is not limited thereto. The liquid storage container 16 can be disposed outside the device body, as long as it can supply liquid to the liquid nozzle 15.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of the liquid storage container 16 in this embodiment. (See reference) Figure 4 The liquid storage container 16 is formed of a synthetic resin such as polypropylene and has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The liquid storage container 16 has a front wall 1010, a right wall 1020, a left wall 1030, an upper wall 1040, and a lower wall 1050. The front wall 1010 has an upright wall 1010A and an inclined wall 1010B. The upright wall 1010A extends generally vertically from the lower wall 1050. The inclined wall 1010B extends from the upper end of the upright wall 1010A toward the upper wall 1040 and slopes towards the upper wall 1040. The inclined wall 1010B is inclined such that, in the longitudinal direction, the front side is lower and the rear side is higher. A supply port 106 is formed in the inclined wall 1010B.

[0037] The rear of the liquid storage container 16 is open, and the membrane 1060 is welded to the opening of the liquid storage container 16. The membrane 1060, together with the front wall 1010, right wall 1020, left wall 1030, upper wall 1040, and lower wall 1050, forms the storage chamber 100.

[0038] In this embodiment, three color partitions 1021, 1022, and 1023 are provided to store four liquids of different colors in the storage chamber 100. In other words, the storage chamber 100 is divided into four liquid chambers by the color partitions 1021, 1022, and 1023. A supply port 106 and a plug member 105 are provided for each liquid chamber.

[0039] Figure 5 This is a view used to illustrate the configuration of the plug member 105 of the liquid storage container 16 in this embodiment. Figure 6A and Figure 6B This shows the section intercepted along line 6A / 6B-6A / 6B. Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the plug member 105 shown. Figure 6A This shows the state in which the plug component 105 is attached to the supply port 106. Figure 6B This shows the state where the plug component 105 has been removed from the supply port 106.

[0040] like Figure 5 as well as Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the plug member 105 has a body portion 105E and a plug portion 105C. To achieve a sealing performance that prevents liquid leakage from the supply port 106, the plug member 105 is constructed of a flexible member (an elastically deformable member) (e.g., an elastomer such as rubber). The plug portion 105C is inserted into the supply port 106 to seal the supply port 106. Here, the plug portion 105C is attachably and detachably attached to the supply port 106. The supply port 106 has a hollow protrusion 106a protruding from the storage chamber 100, and the entire plug portion 105C is inserted into the hollow tubular portion 106a. Here, the hollow protrusion 106a is a hollow cylindrical portion with a circular cross-sectional shape. However, the protrusion 106a is not limited to a cylindrical protrusion, but can be a protrusion with another hollow shape.

[0041] The main body 105E has a cover portion 105D and a clamping portion 105I. The cover portion 105D is integrally formed with the plug portion 105C and covers the supply port 106 from the outside of the storage chamber 100 with the entire plug portion 105C inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a. The hollow portion 110 extends from the cover portion 105D into the plug portion 105C. Here, the hollow portion 110 penetrates the cover portion 105D but does not penetrate the plug portion 105C. The plug portion 105C and the cover portion 105D are made of an elastomer, and the hollow portion 110 has an opening on the side of the cover portion 105D. Specifically, the opening 110a of the hollow portion 110 is provided in the upper surface 104 of the cover portion 105D, which is the surface on the opposite side of the plug portion 105C. The upper surface 104 of the cover portion 105D is parallel to the opening surface of the supply port 106 when the entire plug portion 105C is inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a.

[0042] A pinching portion 105I is disposed in the cover portion 105D. The pinching portion 105I includes a first portion and a second portion that are opposite to each other. By pinching the first portion and the second portion, the width of the opening 110a narrows and the side of the plug portion 105C deforms toward the hollow portion 110. For example, when the first portion and the second portion are pinched while the plug portion 105C is inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a, the side of the plug portion 105C partially separates from the inner wall surface of the protrusion 106a. Specifically, the plug portion 105C and the cover portion 105D elastically deform, causing the side of the plug portion 105C that is opposite to each other across the hollow portion 110 to separate from the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a.

[0043] As described in more detail, the pinching portion 105I has a first protrusion 105A as a first part and a second protrusion 105B as a second part. The first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B protrude from the upper surface 104 of the cover portion 105D. Here, the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B protrude in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface 104. The first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B are opposite each other when the opening 110a of the hollow portion 110 is between them. The first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B have dimensions (width, height, and spacing) that allow them to be pinched or force applied with fingers, etc.

[0044] The hollow portion 110 has a rectangular shape in its cross-section parallel to the upper surface 104 of the cover portion 105D, with the rectangular shape being longer in the first direction. The opening 110a of the hollow portion 110 also has a similar rectangular shape. The plug portion 105C and the cover portion 105D have four sidewalls forming the hollow portion 110. The first direction is parallel to the length direction of the opening 110a (the long side of the rectangle). A second direction, orthogonal to the first direction, is parallel to the width direction of the opening 110a (the short side of the rectangle). The sidewall facing the short side is thinner than the sidewall facing the long side. For example, in… Figure 5 In the cover portion 105D, the thickness D1 of the sidewall facing the short side (parallel to the second direction) is thinner than the thickness D2 of the sidewall facing the long side (parallel to the first direction). Although in Figure 5 Although not shown in the diagram, the thickness of the sidewalls of the plug portion 105C also has a similar relationship to that of the cover portion 105D. This allows the plug portion 105C and the cover portion 105D to have structures that can deform in the second direction.

[0045] In the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment, for example, there is a situation where liquid adheres to the front end face 107 of the plug portion 105C exposed to the storage chamber 100 due to the shaking of the liquid in the storage chamber 100.

[0046] Because the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment enables the reduction of reaction and impact when the plug member 105 is removed from the supply port 106, liquid spillage can be suppressed when it is opened.

[0047] In the following description, the operation and effects of the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment will be described with reference to comparative examples.

[0048] (Comparative Example)

[0049] Figure 7 The configuration of a stopper member 505 of a liquid storage container as a comparative example is shown. The stopper member 505 has a main body portion 505E and a stopper portion 505C. The stopper portion 505C is inserted into a hollow protrusion 106a to seal the supply port 106. The main body portion 505E has a protrusion 505A and a cover portion 505D. The cover portion 505D is integrally formed with the stopper portion 505C and covers the supply port 106 while the stopper portion 505C is inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a. The protrusion 505A protrudes from the upper surface of the cover portion 505D. With the entire stopper portion 505C inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a, the front end of the stopper portion 505C is exposed to the interior of the storage chamber 100. Due to the movement of the liquid within the storage chamber 100, liquid adheres to the exposed portion of the stopper portion 505C.

[0050] The plug member 505 can be removed from the supply port 106 by pinching and pulling the protrusion 505A. Generally, the greater the frictional force generated between the inner wall of the hollow protrusion 106a and the side of the plug portion 505C, the greater the reaction and impact upon opening. For example, if the frictional force is large, a greater force is required to pull the protrusion 505A, which increases the reaction and impact upon opening. The greater the reaction and impact upon opening, the higher the likelihood that the liquid adhering to the plug portion 505C will scatter upon opening. In the liquid storage container of the comparative example, the large frictional force generated between the inner wall of the hollow protrusion 106a and the side of the plug portion 505C results in a greater reaction and impact upon opening, leading to liquid scattering upon opening.

[0051] Conversely, in the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment, such as Figure 6B As shown, when the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B are pinched in the direction of arrow A, the side surface 105C1 of the plug portion 105C separates from the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a. This reduces the contact area and contact pressure between the side surface of the plug portion 105C and the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a, thereby reducing the frictional force generated between the side surface of the plug portion 105C and the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a. Therefore, the reaction and impact during opening can be reduced, and liquid splashing during opening can be suppressed.

[0052] It should be noted that in the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment, if the hollow portion 110 provided in the plug portion 105C is too shallow, the thickness of the plug portion 105C at the front end increases. In this case, when the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B are clamped, the plug portion 105C does not elastically deform sufficiently, resulting in increased friction between the side surface of the plug portion 105C and the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a. On the other hand, if the hollow portion 110 provided in the plug portion 105C is too deep, the thickness of the plug portion 105C at the front end decreases. In this case, the plug portion 105C is easily elastically deformed, and therefore, the contact pressure between the side surface of the plug portion 105C and the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a is unnecessarily reduced, thereby impairing the sealing performance. It is advantageous to appropriately set the depth of the hollow portion 110 taking these points into account.

[0053] Specifically, the depth of the hollow portion 110 is set such that the sealing performance is not compromised and friction is reduced. More advantageously, the depth of the hollow portion 110 is set such that when the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B are clamped, the front end face 107 of the plug portion 105C bends along the bottom surface of the hollow portion 110. This causes the side surface of the plug portion 105C to also separate from the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a at a position close to the storage chamber 100, and is therefore effective in reducing the friction between the side surface of the plug portion 105C and the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a.

[0054] Furthermore, the arrangement of the first protruding portion 105A, the second protruding portion 105B, and the hollow portion 110 is not limited to... Figure 5 as well as Figure 6A and Figure 6B The arrangement is shown. The first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B can be arranged in any position, as long as they are opposite each other with the opening 110a of the hollow portion 110 located therebetween. For example, the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B can be arranged in asymmetrical positions when viewed from the upper surface 104 of the cover portion 105D. In addition, the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B can be integrally formed.

[0055] Furthermore, the shapes of the first protruding portion 105A and the second protruding portion 105B are not limited to... Figure 5 as well as Figure 6A and Figure 6B The shape shown. For example, the front end of the first protrusion 105A and the front end of the second protrusion 105B may have a convex shape such as a cuboid, a non-planar shape, or a spherical shape.

[0056] This makes it easy for the fingers to grip the front end and apply force when pinching the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B.

[0057] Furthermore, the shape of the upper surface 104 of the cover portion 105D is not limited to a circle. The upper surface 104 of the cover portion 105D can be, for example, a symmetrical shape such as a rectangle or an asymmetrical shape.

[0058] (Second Embodiment)

[0059] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a perspective view showing the external appearance of a plug component used in a liquid storage container according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8A The diagram shows the state of the plug component before it is clamped, and Figure 8B The state of the clamped plug component is shown. Figure 9A and Figure 9B It is shown Figure 8A and Figure 8B The diagram shows the state of the plug component attached to the supply port of the storage chamber. Figure 9A Show along Figure 8A The cross-sectional structure of the plug component cut from line 9A-9A in the middle and Figure 9B Show along Figure 8B The cross-sectional structure of the plug component is shown by line 9B-9B.

[0060] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 8A and Figure 8B as well as Figure 9A and Figure 9B The liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment is described in detail.

[0061] It should be noted that since the basic configuration of the liquid storage container 16 in this embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, only the characteristic configuration will be described below.

[0062] The plug member 205 has a main body portion 205E and a plug portion 205C. The plug portion 205C is inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a to seal the supply port 106. The main body portion 205E has a cover portion 205D and a clamping portion 205I. The cover portion 205D is integrally formed with the plug portion 205C and covers the supply port 106 from the outside of the storage chamber 100 while the entire plug portion 205C is inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a. In this embodiment, the hollow portion 110 extends through both the plug portion 205C and the cover portion 205D. Inside the clamping portion 205I, a space 111 is formed that communicates with the hollow portion 110.

[0063] The upper surface 204 of the cover portion 205D has an opening 110a of a hollow portion 110. A pinching portion 205I is integrally formed with the cover portion 205D. The pinching portion 205I is made of a protruding elastic member disposed on the upper surface 204 of the cover portion 205D in such a way as to cover the space 111 communicating with the opening 110a. The pinching portion 205I has a first pinching portion 205A and a second pinching portion 205B that are opposite each other. The first pinching portion 205A and the second pinching portion 205B can be pinched with fingers or the like. The hollow portion 110 is located between the first pinching portion 205A and the second pinching portion 205B.

[0064] In this embodiment, as Figure 8B As shown, when the first pinching portion 205A and the second pinching portion 205B are pinched, the first pinching portion 205A and the second pinching portion 205B elastically deform toward the center portion of the pinching portion 205A.

[0065] In order to remove the plug component 205 from the supply port 106, as Figure 9B As shown, the first pinching portion 205A and the second pinching portion 205B are pinched in the direction of arrow A. When the first pinching portion 205A and the second pinching portion 205B are pinched, the opposing sides 205C1 of the plug portion 205C, separated from each other by the hollow portion 110, separate from the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a. This reduces the contact area and contact pressure between the side surface of the plug portion 205C and the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a, thereby reducing the frictional force generated between the side surface of the plug portion 205C and the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a. Therefore, the reaction and impact upon opening can be reduced, and liquid scattering upon opening can be suppressed.

[0066] Furthermore, the pinching of the first pinching portion 205A and the second pinching portion 205B reduces the volume of the space 111. Therefore, air flows from the space 111 into the storage chamber 100 through the hollow portion 110. This airflow allows liquid adhering to the front surface 207 of the plug portion 205C (particularly the portion of the front surface 207 near the hollow portion 110) to be blown away into the storage chamber 100. In this way, because liquid adhering to the front surface 207 of the plug portion 205C can be blown away, liquid scattering upon opening can be more effectively suppressed.

[0067] In the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment, the arrangement of the first clamping portion 205A, the second clamping portion 205B, and the hollow portion 110 is not limited to... Figure 8A and Figure 8B as well as Figure 9A and Figure 9B The arrangement is shown. The first pinch portion 205A and the second pinch portion 205B can be arranged in any position, as long as they are opposite each other with the hollow portion 110 located therebetween. For example, the first pinch portion 205A and the second pinch portion 205B can be arranged in asymmetrical positions when viewed from the upper surface 204 of the cover portion 205D.

[0068] Furthermore, the shape of the pinch portion 205I is not limited to... Figure 8A and Figure 8B as well as Figure 9A and Figure 9B The shape shown. For example, the pinching portion 205I can have any shape, as long as pinching the pinching portion 205I can reduce friction.

[0069] (Third Embodiment)

[0070] Figure 10A and Figure 10B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the plug member of a liquid storage container according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10AThis shows the state of the plug component attached to the supply port. Figure 10B This shows the state in which the plug component attached to the supply port is clamped. Figure 10A and Figure 10B Corresponding to along Figure 4 The cross section cut by line 10A / 10B-10A / 10B.

[0071] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 10A and Figure 10B The liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment will be described in detail. It should be noted that since the basic configuration of the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment is the same as that of the liquid storage container 16 of the first embodiment, only the characteristic configuration will be described below.

[0072] The liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment includes a fixing member 109, which secures the plug member 105 to the supply port 106 while the entire plug portion 105C is inserted into the hollow protrusion portion 106a. The fixing achieved by the fixing member 109 is released by pinching the clamping portion 105I. For example, the fixing member 109 may include a first engaging portion disposed on the cap portion 105D and a second engaging portion disposed on the outer wall surface of the protrusion portion 106a. In this case, the cap portion 105D engages with the outer wall surface of the protrusion portion 106a via the first and second engaging portions. The fixing members including the first and second engaging portions can be disposed at positions opposite each other with the center of the protrusion portion 106a located between the fixing members. Preferably, the fixing members including the first and second engaging portions can be disposed corresponding to the first protrusion portion 105A and the second protrusion portion 105B.

[0073] Specifically, the second engaging portion includes a protrusion 109a disposed on the outer wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a, and the first engaging portion includes an arm member 105F extending from the cover portion 105D along the outer wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a to the protrusion 109a. A claw portion 105G is disposed on the front end of the arm member 105F. The claw portion 105G is configured to protrude from the front end of the arm member 105F toward the protrusion 109a. The claw portion 105G on the front end of the arm member 105F engages with the protrusion 109a while the entire plug portion 105C is inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a. Here, engagement means that the claw portion 105G is locked onto the protrusion 109a. By pinching the pinching portion 105I, the claw portion 105G is released from the protrusion 109a.

[0074] In this embodiment, two arm members 105F and two protrusions 109a are provided corresponding to the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B. The first protrusion 109a and the second protrusion 109a are positioned opposite each other. Here, the first arm member 105F and the first protrusion 105A are arranged linearly, and the second arm member 105F and the second protrusion 105B are also arranged linearly. The cover portion 105D includes a first connecting portion 105D1 connecting the first arm member 105F and the first protrusion 105A, and a second connecting portion 105D1 connecting the second arm member 105F and the second protrusion 105B.

[0075] like Figure 10B As shown, the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B are clamped in the direction of arrow A. The first arm member 105F rotates at the first connecting portion 105D1 in a direction away from the outer wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a, causing the claw portion 105G to release from the first protrusion 109a. In the same manner, the second arm member 105F rotates at the second connecting portion 105D1 in a direction away from the outer wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a, causing the claw portion 105G to release from the second protrusion 109a.

[0076] In the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment, when the plug member 105 is attached to the supply port 106, the entire plug portion 105C is inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a to engage the claw portion 105G of the corresponding arm member 105F with the corresponding protrusion 109a, as shown. Figure 10A As shown. Because this allows the plug member 105 to be secured to the supply port 106, leakage of liquid, such as due to liquid sloshing, can be reliably suppressed when the liquid injection device 200 moves. In addition, it also prevents the plug member 105 from being accidentally removed from the supply port 106.

[0077] In order to remove the plug component 105 from the supply port 106, as Figure 10B As shown, the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B are clamped. When the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B are clamped, the side 105C1 of the plug portion 105C separates from the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a, and the claw portion 105G of the arm member 105F is released from the protrusion 109a. Releasing the claw portion 105G of the arm member 105F from the protrusion 109a allows the plug member 105 to be removed from the supply port 106. In addition, since the side of the plug portion 105C is partially separated from the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a, similar to the first embodiment, friction can be reduced and liquid splashing can be suppressed when opened.

[0078] It should be noted that although the fixing member 109 in the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment includes two arm members 105F and two protrusions 109a, the configuration is not limited to this. The number of arm members 105F and protrusions 109a included in the fixing member 109 may be one or more.

[0079] Furthermore, although the claw portion 105G is configured to engage with the protrusion 109a, the configuration is not limited to this. The structure for fixing the claw portion 105G and the protrusion 109a can be replaced by a structure for fixing the protruding portion and the recessed portion. In this case, the configuration can be such that one of the protruding portion and the recessed portion is provided on the arm member 105F and the other is provided on the outer wall surface of the hollow protruding portion 106a.

[0080] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0081] Figure 11A and Figure 11B as well as Figures 12A to 12C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the plug member of a liquid storage container according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11A This shows the state of the plug component attached to the supply port. Figure 11B This shows the state in which the plug component attached to the supply port is clamped. Figure 12A Show along Figure 11A The cross-sectional structure of the plug component is shown by line 12A-12A. Figure 12B Show along Figure 11A The cross-sectional structure of the plug component is shown by line 12B-12B. Figure 12C Show along Figure 11B The cross-sectional structure of the plug component cut from line 12C-12C.

[0082] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 11A and Figure 11B as well as Figures 12A to 12C The liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment will be described in detail. It should be noted that since the basic configuration of the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment is the same as that of the liquid storage container 16 of the first embodiment, only the characteristic configuration will be described below.

[0083] In the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment, the plug portion 105C has a deformable portion 115 and a non-deformable portion 116. When the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B are pinched, the deformable portion 115 elastically deforms. The non-deformable portion 116 has a structure that makes it impossible for it to elastically deform even when the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B are pinched.

[0084] The deformable portion 115 includes a third sidewall portion and a fourth sidewall portion, which are located directly below the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B, respectively, and are opposite to each other when the hollow portion 110 is located therebetween. At least one ridge portion 105H extending in the circumferential direction is provided on the outer periphery of the third and fourth sidewall portions of the plug portion 105C. The non-deformable portion 116 includes a first sidewall portion, a second sidewall portion, and a front end portion of the plug portion 105C, which are opposite to each other when the hollow portion 110 is located therebetween. The first and second sidewall portions are adjacent to the third and fourth sidewall portions. In other words, the first to fourth sidewall portions are the sidewalls forming the hollow portion 110.

[0085] like Figure 11A as well as Figure 12A and Figure 12B As shown, the ridge portion 105H contacts the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a when the plug portion 105C is inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a. At the third and fourth sidewall portions of the side surface of the plug portion 105C, the ridge portion 105H contacts the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a to ensure sealing performance. At the first and second sidewall portions, the side surface of the plug portion 105C contacts the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a to ensure sealing performance.

[0086] At the interface where the deformable portion 115 and the non-deformable portion 116 contact, at the interface 117 between the first and second sidewall portions and the third and fourth sidewall portions, the deformable portion 115 and the non-deformable portion 116 separate. At the interface 118 between the first and second sidewall portions and the front end portion, the deformable portion 115 and the non-deformable portion 116 are integrally joined.

[0087] like Figure 11B and Figure 12C As shown, pinching the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B in the direction of arrow A separates the ridge 105H from the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a. This reduces the frictional force generated between the third and fourth sidewall portions of the plug portion 105C and the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a. Therefore, similar to the first embodiment, the reaction and impact upon opening can be reduced, and liquid spillage upon opening can be suppressed.

[0088] It should be noted that in this embodiment, since the deformable portion 115 and the non-deformable portion 116 separate at the interface 117, the first and second sidewall portions of the non-deformable portion 116 are difficult to elastically deform even when the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B are pinched. The deformation amount of the third and fourth sidewall portions toward the hollow portion 110 is greater than the deformation amount of the first and second sidewall portions toward the hollow portion 110. In other words, the deformation amount of the first and second sidewall portions toward the hollow portion 110 is much smaller than the deformation amount of the third and fourth sidewall portions toward the hollow portion 110. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the increase in frictional force generated between the first and second sidewall portions of the plug portion 105C and the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a when the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B are pinched.

[0089] It should be noted that the ridge portion 105H may not be provided on the outer periphery of the third and fourth sidewalls of the plug portion 105C, but may be provided on the inner wall surface of the protruding portion 106a opposite to the outer periphery.

[0090] (Fifth Embodiment)

[0091] Figure 13A and Figure 13B as well as Figure 14A and Figure 14B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the plug member of a liquid storage container according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13A This shows the state of the plug component attached to the supply port. Figure 13B This shows the state in which the plug component attached to the supply port is clamped. Figure 14A Show along Figure 13A The cross-sectional structure cut from line 14A-14A in the diagram. Figure 14B Show along Figure 13A The cross-sectional structure cut by line 14B-14B in the diagram.

[0092] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 13A and Figure 13B as well as Figure 14A and Figure 14B The liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment will be described in detail. It should be noted that since the basic configuration of the liquid storage container 16 of this embodiment is the same as that of the liquid storage container 16 of the first embodiment, only the characteristic configuration will be described below.

[0093] The supply port 106 includes a hollow protrusion 106a having a rectangular cross-sectional shape surrounded by four inner wall surfaces 106A, 106B, 106C, and 106D. Inner wall surfaces 106A and 106C face each other, and inner wall surfaces 106B and 106D face each other. A plug portion 105C has a rectangular cross-sectional shape and can seal the supply port 106 by inserting the plug portion 105C into the hollow protrusion 106a. The upper surface 104 of the cover portion 105D also has a rectangular cross-sectional shape. The cover portion 105D covers the supply port 106 with the entire plug portion 105C inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a.

[0094] The hollow portion 110, parallel to the upper surface 104 of the cover portion 105D, has a rectangular cross-sectional shape that is longer in a first direction (orthogonal to lines 14A-14A). The plug portion 105C and the cover portion 105D have four sidewalls forming the hollow portion 110. The thickness D1 of the sidewall facing the shorter side is thinner than the thickness D2 of the sidewall facing the longer side. Here, the longer side is parallel to the first direction, and the shorter side is parallel to a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The sidewall facing the shorter side forms a folded portion 119, which is foldable towards the inside of the hollow portion 110.

[0095] With the entire plug portion 105C inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a, the inner wall surface 106A is located directly below the first protrusion 105A, and the inner wall surface 106C is located directly below the second protrusion 105B. On the side surfaces of the plug portion 105C, at least one ridge portion 105H extending in the outer peripheral direction is provided on the side surfaces opposite to the inner wall surfaces 106A and 106C, respectively. It should be noted that the ridge portion 105H may not be provided on the side surfaces of the plug portion 105C, but rather on the inner wall surfaces 106A and 106C.

[0096] like Figure 13A and Figure 14A As shown, the ridge portion 105H contacts the inner wall surfaces 106A and 106C of the hollow protrusion 106a when the plug portion 105C is inserted into the hollow protrusion 106a. On the side of the plug portion 105C opposite to the inner wall surfaces 106A and 106C, the ridge portion 105H contacts the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a to ensure sealing performance. On the side of the plug portion 105C opposite to the inner wall surfaces 106B and 106D, the side of the plug portion 105C contacts the inner wall surface of the hollow protrusion 106a to ensure sealing performance.

[0097] like Figure 13B and Figure 14BAs shown, by pinching the first protrusion 105A and the second protrusion 105B in the direction of arrow A, the folded portion 119 is folded toward the inside of the hollow portion 110. Simultaneously, the ridge portion 105H separates from the inner wall surfaces 106A and 106C of the hollow protrusion 106a. This allows for a reduction in the frictional force generated between the side of the plug portion 105C and the inner wall surfaces 106A and 106C of the hollow protrusion 106a. Therefore, similar to the first embodiment, the reaction force and impact upon opening can be reduced, and liquid spillage upon opening can be suppressed.

[0098] Furthermore, since the folded portion 119 folds toward the inside of the hollow portion 110, it is possible to suppress the increase of friction between the side of the plug portion 105C and the inner wall surfaces 106B and 106D of the hollow protrusion portion 106a.

[0099] (Another embodiment)

[0100] The liquid storage container of this embodiment includes: a storage chamber for storing liquid; a supply port including a hollow protrusion extending from the storage chamber and capable of supplying liquid into the storage chamber; and a plug member made of an elastomer and configured such that a front end portion of the elastomer is inserted into the protrusion. The plug member includes: a hollow portion extending from the elastomer toward the front end portion; and a pinching portion disposed on the rear end of the elastomer and causing the side of the front end portion to deform toward the hollow portion. The pinching portion includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion and the second portion being opposite each other in a first direction intersecting the hollow portion with the hollow portion located therebetween. The front end portion of the elastomer is more likely to deform in the first direction than in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.

[0101] According to the liquid storage container of this embodiment, by pinching the first and second portions, the outer diameter of the front end portion of the elastomer is reduced in the first direction. This reduction in the outer diameter of the front end portion reduces the reaction force and impact when removing the front end portion inserted into the hollow tubular portion. Therefore, similar to the first to fifth embodiments described above, liquid spillage upon opening can be suppressed.

[0102] It should be noted that in the liquid storage container of this embodiment, the storage chamber 100, supply port 106 and plug components 105, 205 described in the first to fifth embodiments can be applied to the storage chamber, supply port and plug components.

[0103] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the appended claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such variations and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. A liquid storage container, comprising: Storage room, which stores liquid; A supply port that allows the liquid to be supplied to the storage chamber; A hollow, protruding portion that protrudes from the supply port; as well as A plug component, which is attachable and detachable to the supply port, wherein The plug component includes: - A plug portion, which is inserted into the protrusion to seal the supply port; - A cover portion, which is integrally formed with the plug portion and covers the supply port from the outside of the storage chamber while the plug portion is inserted into the protrusion portion; - A pinching portion, which is disposed on the cover portion and includes a first portion and a second portion opposite to each other; and - A hollow portion, located between the first portion and the second portion and extending from the cover portion into the plug portion. The plug portion and the cap portion are made of an elastomer. The hollow portion has an opening on the cover side, and By pinching the first and second portions, the width of the opening narrows and the side of the plug portion deforms toward the hollow portion. The hollow portion extends through both the plug portion and the cap portion. The opening in the hollow portion is located in the upper surface of the cover portion, the upper surface being the surface opposite to the plug portion. The pinching portion is disposed on the upper surface of the cover portion in such a way as to cover the space communicating with the opening, and is made of a protruding elastic member including the first portion and the second portion.

2. The liquid storage container according to claim 1, wherein... With the plug portion inserted into the protrusion, the side of the plug portion is partially separated from the inner wall of the protrusion by pinching the first portion and the second portion.

3. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A fixing member, wherein the plug member is secured to the supply port with its entire plug portion inserted into the protrusion, wherein... The fixing achieved by the fixing member is released by pinching the clamping part.

4. The liquid storage container according to claim 3, wherein The fixing member includes a first engaging portion disposed on the cover portion and a second engaging portion disposed on the outer wall surface of the protruding portion, and The cover portion is engaged with the outer wall surface of the protruding portion via the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion.

5. The liquid storage container according to claim 4, wherein... The second engaging portion includes a protrusion disposed on the outer wall surface of the protruding portion. The first engaging portion includes an arm member extending from the cover portion along the outer wall surface of the protrusion to the projection. With the entire plug portion inserted into the protrusion, the front end of the arm member engages with the protrusion, and By pinching the first and second portions, the front end of the arm member is released from the protrusion.

6. A liquid storage container, comprising: Storage room, which stores liquid; A supply port that allows the liquid to be supplied to the storage chamber; A hollow, protruding portion that protrudes from the supply port; as well as A plug component, which is attachable and detachable to the supply port, wherein The plug component includes: - A plug portion, which is inserted into the protrusion to seal the supply port; - A cover portion, which is integrally formed with the plug portion and covers the supply port from the outside of the storage chamber while the plug portion is inserted into the protrusion portion; - A pinching portion, which is disposed on the cover portion and includes a first portion and a second portion opposite to each other; and - A hollow portion, located between the first portion and the second portion and extending from the cover portion into the plug portion. The plug portion and the cap portion are made of an elastomer. The hollow portion has an opening on the cover side, and By pinching the first and second portions, the width of the opening narrows and the side of the plug portion deforms toward the hollow portion. The opening of the hollow portion is located in the upper surface of the cover portion, and the upper surface is the surface opposite to the plug portion. The first portion and the second portion are a first protruding portion and a second protruding portion that protrude from the upper surface of the cover portion, and The first protruding portion and the second protruding portion are opposite each other when the opening is located therebetween. The hollow portion has a rectangular shape that is longer in the first direction in a cross-section parallel to the upper surface of the cover portion. The plug portion includes a first to a fourth sidewall forming the hollow portion. The third and fourth sidewalls are parallel to the first direction. The first and second sidewalls are parallel to a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The third sidewall is located directly below the first portion, and The fourth sidewall is located directly below the second part.

7. The liquid storage container according to claim 6, wherein With the plug portion inserted into the protrusion, the side of the plug portion is partially separated from the inner wall of the protrusion by pinching the first portion and the second portion.

8. The liquid storage container according to claim 6 or 7, wherein The deformation of the third and fourth sidewalls toward the hollow portion is greater than the deformation of the first and second sidewalls toward the hollow portion.

9. The liquid storage container according to claim 6 or 7, wherein The thickness of each of the first and second sidewalls is thinner than the thickness of each of the third and fourth sidewalls.

10. The liquid storage container according to claim 9, wherein The first sidewall and the second sidewall are foldable toward the inside of the hollow portion.

11. The liquid storage container according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising: The ridge portion extends circumferentially on the outer periphery of the third and fourth sidewalls of the plug portion or on the inner wall surface of the protrusion portion opposite to the outer periphery.

12. The liquid storage container according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising: A fixing member, wherein the plug member is secured to the supply port with its entire plug portion inserted into the protrusion, wherein... The fixing achieved by the fixing member is released by pinching the clamping part.

13. The liquid storage container according to claim 12, wherein The fixing member includes a first engaging portion disposed on the cover portion and a second engaging portion disposed on the outer wall surface of the protruding portion, and The cover portion is engaged with the outer wall surface of the protruding portion via the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion.

14. The liquid storage container according to claim 13, wherein The second engaging portion includes a protrusion disposed on the outer wall surface of the protruding portion. The first engaging portion includes an arm member extending from the cover portion along the outer wall surface of the protrusion to the projection. With the entire plug portion inserted into the protrusion, the front end of the arm member engages with the protrusion, and By pinching the first and second portions, the front end of the arm member is released from the protrusion.

15. A liquid jetting device, comprising: Liquid storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 14; as well as Liquid injection head for spraying liquid, wherein Liquid is supplied from the liquid storage container to the liquid injection head.

16. The liquid jetting device according to claim 15, further comprising: The receiving portion includes an openable and closable lid and receives the liquid storage container, wherein... The liquid storage container housed in the housing portion allows liquid to be supplied to the storage chamber from the supply port when the lid is open.

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