Liquid container, printing device

Abstract

A liquid container capable of reducing the frequency of liquid injection, and a printing device. The liquid container (14) of the present invention is capable of being attached to and detached from a connection body connected to a liquid ejection device (12) that ejects liquid, and is capable of being disposed at a position separate from the liquid ejection device (12), and includes: a liquid storage container (65) having a storage chamber (78) that stores liquid, and an injection port (79) for injecting liquid into the storage chamber (78); and a connection portion (64) having a lead-out portion (72) that leads out liquid in the storage chamber (78), and is capable of being connected to the connection body (13).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a liquid container capable of containing liquid and a printing apparatus equipped with the liquid container. Background Technology

[0002] As in, for example, Patent Document 1, there exists a printer that serves as an example of a printing apparatus, comprising a liquid reservoir and a main body that is an example of a liquid ejection device. The printer performs printing by ejecting ink supplied by the liquid reservoir from a liquid ejection head. The liquid reservoir is provided with an injection port for injecting an example of liquid ink into the liquid reservoir.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, the liquid reservoir is fixed inside the main body of the device. Therefore, the capacity of the liquid reservoir cannot be increased, and liquid must be frequently injected into the liquid reservoir.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-061692 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The liquid collection body that solves the above-mentioned problem is a liquid collection body that can be detached from and installed on a connector that is connected to a liquid spraying device that sprays liquid, and can be installed at a position separate from the liquid spraying device. It comprises: a liquid collection container having a collection chamber for collecting the liquid and an injection port for injecting the liquid into the collection chamber; and a connecting part having an outlet for discharging the liquid in the collection chamber and being able to connect to the connector.

[0006] The printing apparatus for solving the above problems includes: a liquid ejection device that ejects liquid; a connector that is connected to the liquid ejection device; and a liquid receiving body with the above structure that is detachably connected to the connector. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a printing apparatus.

[0008] Figure 2 A schematic side view of a first modified example of a liquid container.

[0009] Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of the first modified example of a liquid container.

[0010] Figure 4 A schematic side view of a second modified example of a liquid container.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a schematic side view of a third modified example of a liquid container.

[0012] Figure 6 A schematic perspective view of a third modified example of a liquid container.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a schematic side view of the fourth modified example of a liquid container.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a schematic side view of the fifth modified example of a liquid container.

[0015] Figure 9 This is a schematic perspective view of the fifth modified example of a liquid container.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a schematic side view of the sixth modified example of a liquid container.

[0017] Figure 11 A schematic perspective view of the seventh modified example of a liquid container.

[0018] Figure 12 This is a schematic perspective view of the eighth modified example of a liquid container.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a schematic perspective view of the ninth modified example of a liquid container.

[0020] Figure 14 This is a schematic perspective view of the tenth modified example of a liquid container.

[0021] Figure 15 This is a schematic perspective view of the eleventh modified example of a liquid container.

[0022] Figure 16 A schematic perspective view of the twelfth modified example of a liquid container.

[0023] Figure 17 A schematic perspective view of the thirteenth modified example of a liquid container.

[0024] Figure 18 This is a schematic perspective view of the fourteenth modified example of a liquid container.

[0025] Figure 19 A schematic perspective view of the fifteenth modified example of a liquid container.

[0026] Figure 20 A schematic perspective view of the sixteenth modified example of a liquid container.

[0027] Figure 21 A schematic perspective view of the seventeenth modified example of a liquid container.

[0028] Figure 22 A schematic perspective view of the eighteenth modified example of a liquid container.

[0029] Figure 23 A schematic perspective view of the nineteenth modified example of a liquid container.

[0030] Figure 24 This is a schematic perspective view of the twentieth modified example of a liquid container.

[0031] Figure 25 A schematic perspective view of the twenty-first modified example of a liquid container.

[0032] Figure 26 A schematic perspective view of the twenty-second modified example of a liquid container.

[0033] Figure 27 A schematic perspective view of the twenty-third modified example of a liquid container.

[0034] Figure 28 This is a schematic perspective view of the twenty-fourth modified example of a liquid container.

[0035] Figure 29 This is a schematic perspective view of the twenty-fifth modified example of a liquid container.

[0036] Figure 30 A schematic perspective view of the twenty-sixth modified example of a liquid container.

[0037] Figure 31 A schematic perspective view of the twenty-seventh modified example of a liquid container.

[0038] Figure 32 A schematic perspective view of the twenty-eighth modified example of a liquid container.

[0039] Figure 33 A schematic perspective view of the twenty-ninth modified example of a liquid container.

[0040] Figure 34 This is a schematic perspective view of the thirtieth modified example of a liquid container.

[0041] Figure 35 This is a schematic perspective view of the thirty-first modified example of a liquid container.

[0042] Figure 36 This is a schematic perspective view of the thirty-second modified example of a liquid container.

[0043] Figure 37 This is a schematic perspective view of the thirty-third modified example of a liquid container.

[0044] Figure 38 This is a schematic perspective view of the thirty-fourth modified example of a liquid container.

[0045] Figure 39 This is a schematic perspective view of the thirty-fifth modified example of a liquid container.

[0046] Figure 40 This is a schematic perspective view of the thirty-sixth modified example of a liquid container.

[0047] Figure 41 This is a schematic perspective view of the thirty-seventh modified example of a liquid container.

[0048] Figure 42 This is a schematic perspective view of the thirty-eighth modified example of a liquid container.

[0049] Figure 43 This is a schematic perspective view of the thirty-ninth modified example of a liquid container.

[0050] Figure 44 This is a schematic perspective view of the fortieth modified example of a liquid container.

[0051] Figure 45 This is a schematic perspective view of the forty-first modified example of a liquid container.

[0052] Figure 46 This is a schematic perspective view of the forty-second modified example of a liquid container.

[0053] Figure 47 This is a schematic perspective view of the forty-third modified example of a liquid container.

[0054] Figure 48 This is a schematic perspective view of the forty-fourth modified example of a liquid container.

[0055] Figure 49 This is a schematic perspective view of the forty-fifth modified example of a liquid container.

[0056] Figure 50 This is a schematic perspective view of the forty-sixth modified example of a liquid container.

[0057] Figure 51 This is a schematic perspective view of the forty-seventh modified example of a liquid container.

[0058] Figure 52 This is a schematic perspective view of the forty-eighth modified example of a liquid container.

[0059] Figure 53 This is a schematic perspective view of the forty-ninth modified example of a liquid container.

[0060] Figure 54 A schematic perspective view of the fiftieth variation of a liquid container.

[0061] Figure 55 This is a schematic perspective view of the fifty-first modified example of a liquid container.

[0062] Figure 56This is a schematic perspective view of the fifty-second modified example of a liquid container.

[0063] Figure 57 This is a schematic perspective view of the fifty-third modified example of a liquid container.

[0064] Figure 58 This is a schematic perspective view of the fifty-fourth modified example of a liquid container.

[0065] Figure 59 This is a schematic perspective view of the fifty-fifth modified example of a liquid container.

[0066] Figure 60 This is a schematic perspective view of the fifty-sixth modified example of a liquid container.

[0067] Figure 61 This is a schematic perspective view of the fifty-seventh modified example of a liquid container.

[0068] Figure 62 This is a schematic perspective view of the fifty-eighth modified example of a liquid container.

[0069] Figure 63 This is a schematic perspective view of the fifty-ninth modified example of a liquid container.

[0070] Figure 64 A schematic perspective view of the sixtieth variation of a liquid container.

[0071] Figure 65 This is a schematic perspective view of the sixty-first modified example of a liquid container.

[0072] Figure 66 This is a schematic perspective view of the sixty-second modified example of a liquid container.

[0073] Figure 67 This is a schematic perspective view of the sixty-third modified example of a liquid container.

[0074] Figure 68 This is a schematic perspective view of the sixty-fourth modified example of a liquid container.

[0075] Figure 69 This is a schematic perspective view of the sixty-fifth modified example of a liquid container.

[0076] Figure 70 This is a schematic perspective view of the sixty-sixth modified example of a liquid container. Detailed Implementation

[0077] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the liquid container and printing apparatus will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The printing apparatus is, for example, an inkjet printer that sprays ink, as an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper, cloth, vinyl resin, plastic parts, or metal parts for printing.

[0078] In the accompanying drawings, the printing apparatus 11 is assumed to be placed on a horizontal plane, with the Z-axis representing the direction of gravity and the X and Y axes representing the directions along the horizontal plane. The X, Y, and Z axes are orthogonal to each other. In the following description, the direction parallel to the X-axis will be referred to as the width direction X, the direction parallel to the Y-axis will be referred to as the depth direction Y, and the direction parallel to the Z-axis will be referred to as the vertical direction Z. One of the depth directions Y will be referred to as the forward direction, and the other as the deep direction.

[0079] <Printing apparatus>

[0080] like Figure 1 As shown, the printing apparatus 11 includes a liquid ejection device 12, a connector 13, and a liquid collection body 14. The printing apparatus 11 may also include a base 15 that supports the liquid collection body 14. The base 15 may also support a portion of the connector 13.

[0081] <Liquid Ejection Device>

[0082] The liquid ejection device 12 ejects liquid. The liquid ejection device 12 may also include a carriage 17, a liquid ejection section 18, a liquid supply section 19, and a control section 20. The carriage 17 movably supports a portion of the liquid ejection section 18 and the liquid supply section 19.

[0083] In this embodiment, the printing apparatus 11 sprays a single type of liquid supplied from a liquid reservoir 14 through the liquid ejection section 18, thereby performing monochrome printing. When multiple types of liquid are sprayed from the liquid ejection section 18 to perform color printing, the printing apparatus 11 may also include multiple liquid reservoirs 14, multiple connectors 13, and multiple liquid supply sections 19.

[0084] <Liquid Ejection Section>

[0085] The liquid ejection section 18 may also be equipped with an internal ejection section filter 22. The internal ejection section filter 22 is installed inside the liquid ejection section 18. The internal ejection section filter 22 can capture foreign objects such as air bubbles in the liquid supplied through the liquid supply section 19.

[0086] The liquid ejection section 18 has a nozzle forming surface 24 on which a plurality of nozzles 23 are formed. The liquid ejection section 18 ejects liquid from the nozzles 23 while moving together with the carriage 17, thereby printing on a medium (not shown).

[0087] <Liquid Supply Department>

[0088] The liquid supply unit 19 supplies liquid to the liquid ejection unit 18. The liquid supply unit 19 may also include a connector 26, a liquid supply channel 27, a supply valve 28, a supply pump 29, a collection unit 30, an upstream valve 31, an intermediate storage unit 32, a downstream valve 33, and a pressure regulating mechanism 34. The supply valve 28, supply pump 29, collection unit 30, upstream valve 31, intermediate storage unit 32, downstream valve 33, and pressure regulating mechanism 34 are sequentially arranged on the liquid supply channel 27 from the upstream side. The liquid supply unit 19 may also include a pressurizing mechanism 35 and a liquid volume sensor 36.

[0089] The connector 26 is located at the upstream end of the liquid supply channel 27. The connector 26 connects the connector 13 to the liquid supply channel 27. The connector 26 enables the flow of liquid between the connector 13 and the liquid supply channel 27.

[0090] The liquid supply channel 27 may be formed, for example, by a flexible hose. The downstream end of the liquid supply channel 27 is connected to the liquid ejection section 18. The liquid supply channel 27 supplies liquid from the liquid reservoir 14 via the connector 13 to the liquid ejection section 18.

[0091] Supply valve 28, upstream valve 31, and downstream valve 33 open and close the liquid supply channel 27. Supply valve 28, upstream valve 31, and downstream valve 33 may also be constructed as solenoid valves. Supply valve 28, upstream valve 31, and downstream valve 33 may also close when the power supply to the printing apparatus 11 is disconnected.

[0092] The supply pump 29 causes the liquid in the liquid supply channel 27 to flow from upstream to downstream. The supply pump 29 may also be a diaphragm pump, for example.

[0093] The intermediate reservoir 32 can also be formed into a bag shape using a flexible component. The intermediate reservoir 32 expands or contracts depending on the amount of liquid stored inside. The liquid level sensor 36 can also detect the amount of liquid in the intermediate reservoir 32 based on the expansion state of the intermediate reservoir 32.

[0094] <Collection Department>

[0095] The collection unit 30 may also include a housing 38, a supply filter 39, a filter chamber 40, a discharge channel 41, a pressure sensor 42, a discharge valve 43, and a waste liquid tank 44.

[0096] The housing 38 forms a filter chamber 40. The filter chamber 40 houses the supply filter 39. The supply filter 39 captures foreign objects such as air bubbles in the liquid flowing in the liquid supply channel 27.

[0097] The upstream end of the discharge channel 41 is connected to the filter chamber 40. The discharge channel 41 is connected upstream via the supply filter 39. When the discharge channel 41 is connected at the highest point in the filter chamber 40, air bubbles can be discharged efficiently. The downstream end of the discharge channel 41 is inserted into the waste liquid tank 44. The discharge channel 41 can discharge liquid or air bubbles, etc., from the liquid supply channel 27 into the waste liquid tank 44.

[0098] A pressure sensor 42 and a discharge valve 43 are disposed on the discharge channel 41. The pressure sensor 42 detects the pressure within the liquid supply channel 27. The discharge valve 43 opens and closes the discharge channel 41. By opening the discharge channel 41, the discharge valve 43 allows fluid to be discharged from the discharge channel 41 to the waste liquid tank 44.

[0099] <Pressure Mechanism>

[0100] The pressurization mechanism 35 may also include an air supply unit 46, an air supply channel 47, an air pressure sensor 48, an air valve 49, and a pressing part 50.

[0101] The air supply unit 46 can be a receiving unit that receives pressurized air supplied from equipment such as factories, or it can be composed of an air pump or the like.

[0102] The upstream end of the air supply channel 47 is connected to the air supply unit 46. The downstream end of the air supply channel 47 is connected to the pressing unit 50. The air supply channel 47 connects the air supply unit 46 and the pressing unit 50 together. The air supply unit 46 enables airflow between the air supply unit 46 and the pressing unit 50.

[0103] An air pressure sensor 48 and an air valve 49 are disposed on the air supply channel 47. The air pressure sensor 48 detects the air pressure in the air supply channel 47. The air valve 49 opens and closes the air supply channel 47.

[0104] The pressing part 50 can also be formed into a bag shape using a flexible member, similar to the intermediate reservoir 32. The pressing part 50 is arranged adjacent to the intermediate reservoir 32. The pressing part 50 expands by supplying air from the air supply part 46. The expanded pressing part 50 presses the intermediate reservoir 32. By pressing the intermediate reservoir 32 with the upstream valve 31 closed and the downstream valve 33 open, the pressing part 50 supplies the liquid stored in the intermediate reservoir 32 to the liquid ejection part 18.

[0105] <Pressure Regulation Mechanism>

[0106] The pressure regulating mechanism 34 can also be movably supported by the carriage 17. The pressure regulating mechanism 34 may also include an in-valve filter 52, a supply chamber 53, a pressure chamber 54, a valve body 55, a spring 56, and a diaphragm 57.

[0107] The in-valve filter 52 captures foreign objects such as air bubbles in the liquid.

[0108] A portion of the wall of the supply chamber 53 is formed by an in-valve filter 52. Liquid passing through the in-valve filter 52 flows into the supply chamber 53. The supply chamber 53 is maintained under pressure by the liquid supplied from the intermediate reservoir 32. The supply chamber 53 is connected to the pressure chamber 54 through a connecting hole 58.

[0109] The valve body 55 is inserted into the communication hole 58. The valve body 55 is pressed by the spring 56, thereby blocking the communication hole 58.

[0110] A portion of the wall of pressure chamber 54 is formed by a diaphragm 57. The diaphragm 57 is capable of flexing and deforming in the direction in which the spring 56 presses against the valve body 55. The outer surface of the diaphragm 57 is subjected to atmospheric pressure. The inner surface of the diaphragm 57 is subjected to the pressure of the liquid within pressure chamber 54. Therefore, the diaphragm 57 flexes and displaces according to the pressure difference between the liquid pressure within pressure chamber 54 and atmospheric pressure.

[0111] When the pressure inside the pressure chamber 54 is lower than atmospheric pressure, and the pressure difference between the pressure inside the pressure chamber 54 and atmospheric pressure is greater than a predetermined pressure difference, the diaphragm 57 presses against the spring 56, thereby moving the valve body 55. This opens the communication port 58, allowing liquid to flow between the supply chamber 53 and the pressure chamber 54.

[0112] The pressure in pressure chamber 54 rises as liquid flows from supply chamber 53 into pressure chamber 54. When the pressure difference between pressure chamber 54 and atmospheric pressure returns to a predetermined pressure difference, valve body 55 blocks communication port 58. In this way, the pressure of the liquid supplied to liquid ejection section 18 is regulated by pressure regulating mechanism 34, thereby regulating the pressure in liquid ejection section 18, which becomes the back pressure of nozzle 23.

[0113] <Control Department>

[0114] The control unit 20 provides overall control over the driving of each mechanism in the printing apparatus 11 and controls the various actions performed in the printing apparatus 11.

[0115] The control unit 20 can be configured as a circuit comprising: α: one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program; β: one or more dedicated hardware circuits that execute at least a portion of the various processes; or γ: a combination of these components. The hardware circuit is, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit. The processor includes a CPU and memories such as RAM and ROM, which store program codes or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. Memory, also known as computer-readable media, includes all readable media accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0116] <Connector>

[0117] The connector 13 is connected to the liquid ejection device 12. The connector 13 may also include a connecting part 59, an inlet part 60, a substrate connecting part 61, and a connecting channel 62. The connector 13 may also include a communication part (not shown). The communication part electrically connects the substrate connecting part 61 to the control part 20 via wired or wireless means.

[0118] The connecting part 59 holds the inlet part 60 and the substrate connecting part 61. The connecting part 59 may also be provided in a detachable manner relative to the liquid reservoir 14.

[0119] The inlet 60 can introduce liquid from the liquid reservoir 14. The connecting channel 62 connects the inlet 60 and the connector 26. The connecting channel 62 transports the liquid introduced from the inlet 60 to the liquid ejection device 12.

[0120] <Liquid Storage Container>

[0121] The liquid reservoir 14 is capable of collecting the liquid supplied to the liquid dispensing device 12. The liquid reservoir 14 is detachably connected to the connector 13. The liquid reservoir 14 can be positioned separately from the liquid dispensing device 12.

[0122] The liquid container 14 includes a connecting portion 64 and a liquid storage container 65. The liquid container 14 may also include a holding portion 66, a gripping portion 67, a circuit board 68, and a first filter 69, as an example of a filter. The circuit board 68 has connection terminals 70. The connection terminals 70 can be connected to the board connecting portion 61 provided on the connecting body 13.

[0123] The retaining part 66 can also retain the liquid storage container 65 and the connecting part 64.

[0124] The gripping part 67 can also be provided on the holding part 66. As for the gripping part 67, it can be either a handle or a concave handle, as long as it can be held by the user. The gripping part 67 can also be provided on the inner side of the injection port 79 in the depth direction Y.

[0125] The connecting part 64 has an outlet part 72. The connecting part 64 may also have a flow channel 73, an adapter 74, a second filter 75, and an inlet part 76.

[0126] The liquid storage container 65 has a storage chamber 78 and an inlet 79. The liquid storage container 65 may also have an outlet 80, a visual confirmation section 81, a scale 82, a cap 83, and an vent 84. The liquid storage container 65 may also have a first side 65a to a fourth side 65d, an upper surface 65e, and a lower surface 65f. That is, the liquid storage container 65 has multiple sides.

[0127] <Connecting Part>

[0128] The connecting part 64 can be connected to the connecting body 13. In this embodiment, the adapter 74 is provided in a manner that allows it to be detached from the connecting body 13. That is, the adapter 74 can be connected to the connecting body 13. The connecting part 59 can be installed on the adapter 74. The adapter 74 can also be located closer to the front in the longitudinal direction Y compared to the outlet 80.

[0129] The connecting portion 64 can also be connected to the lower part of the liquid storage container 65. Specifically, the connecting portion 64 can also be connected to a location in the vertical direction Z that is slightly lower than the center of the liquid storage container 65. In this embodiment, the connecting portion 64 is connected to the lower surface 65f of the liquid storage container 65.

[0130] The flow channel 73 connects the liquid receiving container 65 and the outlet 72. In this embodiment, the inlet 76 connects the upstream end of the flow channel 73 to the outlet 80 of the liquid receiving container 65. The inlet 76 can be connected to the liquid receiving container 65. The downstream end of the flow channel 73 is connected to the outlet 72. In this embodiment, the outlet 72 is provided on the adapter 74. The flow channel 73 can also connect the inlet 76 and the adapter 74.

[0131] The second filter 75 can also be provided on the flow channel 73. The second filter 75 can also be provided in a way that allows it to be detached from the flow channel 73.

[0132] The outlet 72 is capable of discharging liquid from the collection chamber 78. When the connecting part 59 is installed on the adapter 74, the inlet 60 is connected to the outlet 72. Thus, the liquid discharged from the outlet 72 is introduced into the inlet 60.

[0133] The circuit board 68 can also be mounted on the adapter 74. When the liquid reservoir 14 is connected to the connector 13, the circuit board 68 can also be positioned higher than the outlet 72. When the connector 59 is mounted on the adapter 74, the connector terminal 70 is connected to the board connector 61. The circuit board 68 can also store information representing the liquid reservoir 14.

[0134] <Liquid Storage Container>

[0135] The upper surface 65e is located above the first side surface 65a to the fourth side surface 65d in the vertical direction Z. The lower surface 65f is located below the first side surface 65a to the fourth side surface 65d in the vertical direction Z.

[0136] The first side 65a of this embodiment is an example of a single side. The second side 65b to the fourth side 65d of this embodiment are examples of multiple sides other than a single side. The first side 65a and the third side 65c are substantially parallel. The second side 65b and the fourth side 65d are substantially parallel.

[0137] The first side 65a is provided in a manner that it is separated from the third side 65c in the depth direction Y. The second side 65b and the fourth side 65d are located between the third side 65c and the first side 65a in the depth direction Y. That is, the first side 65a, the second side 65b, and the fourth side 65d are provided closer to the front than the third side 65c. The second side 65b to the fourth side 65d are provided further inward than the first side 65a.

[0138] The second side 65b is positioned separately in the width direction X from the fourth side 65d. The first side 65a and the third side 65c are located between the fourth side 65d and the second side 65b in the width direction X.

[0139] The receiving chamber 78 receives liquid. Specifically, the receiving chamber 78 is capable of receiving liquid injected from the inlet 79. That is, the inlet 79 is provided for injecting liquid into the receiving chamber 78. The first filter 69 may also be detachably provided on the inlet 79.

[0140] Cover 83 is able to move to Figure 1 The closed position is shown in solid line in the middle, and Figure 1The cover 83 is configured such that the open position is indicated by a double-dotted line. If the cover 83 is configured to rotate with the inner end as the center, liquid can be easily injected into the inlet 79 from the front. In the closed position, the cover 83 covers the inlet 79. In the open position, the cover 83 exposes the inlet 79. An atmospheric opening 84 may also be formed on the cover 83. The atmospheric opening 84 opens the receiving chamber 78 to the atmosphere.

[0141] In this embodiment, the injection port 79 is provided on the upper surface 65e. The injection port 79 may also be located further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than the first side surface 65a. In the depth direction Y, the distance between the injection port 79 and the first side surface 65a is less than the distance between the injection port 79 and the third side surface 65c. The distance between the injection port 79 in the depth direction Y and the first side surface 65a is less than the distance between the injection port 79 in the width direction X and the second side surface 65b, and the distance between the injection port 79 and the fourth side surface 65d.

[0142] In this embodiment, the outlet 80 is provided on the lower surface 65f. The outlet 80 may also be provided at a position closer to the third side surface 65c than the center of the lower surface 65f. In the depth direction Y, the distance between the outlet 80 and the third side surface 65c is less than the distance between the outlet 80 and the first side surface 65a. The distance between the outlet 80 and the third side surface 65c in the depth direction Y is less than the distance between the outlet 80 and the second side surface 65b and the distance between the outlet 80 and the fourth side surface 65d in the width direction X.

[0143] The liquid storage container 65 may also be formed from a transparent or semi-transparent component. The portion of the liquid storage container 65 that protrudes from the holding portion 66 becomes a visual confirmation portion 81, allowing for visual confirmation of the liquid level 86 within the liquid storage container 65. The visual confirmation portion 81 is provided on at least one of the plurality of sides of the liquid storage container 65. The liquid storage container 65 may also have multiple visual confirmation portions 81. In this embodiment, the liquid storage container 65 has visual confirmation portions 81 provided on the first side 65a and the third side 65c.

[0144] A scale 82 may also be provided on at least one visual confirmation part 81. The scale 82 may be a protrusion formed on the visual confirmation part 81. The scale 82 may be a recess formed on the visual confirmation part 81, a printed line or mark, or it may be formed by pasting a sticker or the like.

[0145] <Function>

[0146] When injecting liquid into the liquid reservoir 14, the user keeps the cover 83 in the open position. The user injects liquid through the injection port 79. At this time, when the user injects liquid from near the liquid reservoir 14, the liquid injection can be performed while simultaneously checking the connection status of the connection part 64 and the connection body 13 and the visual confirmation part 81.

[0147] The injected liquid is collected in the collection chamber 78 after passing through the first filter 69. Dust and other foreign matter contained in the liquid are captured by the first filter 69. The liquid collected in the collection chamber 78 flows from the outlet 80 to the connection portion 64, and is discharged from the outlet portion 72 via the flow channel 73. The discharged liquid is transported to the liquid ejection portion 18 via the connector 13.

[0148] The effects of this implementation method will be explained.

[0149] (1) The liquid collection body 14 can be located at a position separate from the liquid dispensing device 12. That is, the liquid collection body 14 is located outside the liquid dispensing device 12. Therefore, the liquid collection body 14 can increase the capacity of the collection chamber 78. Therefore, the amount of liquid injected into the collection chamber 78 at one time can be increased, and the frequency of liquid injection can be reduced.

[0150] (2) The circuit board 68 is connected to the board connection portion 61 via the connection terminal 70. Therefore, the connection status between the liquid container 14 and the connector 13 can be determined based on whether there is an electrical connection between the circuit board 68 and the board connection portion 61.

[0151] (3) The outlet 72 is provided on the adapter 74 and is connected to the liquid collection container 65 via the flow channel 73. Therefore, the degree of freedom of the position of the outlet 72 relative to the liquid collection container 65 can be increased.

[0152] (4) The circuit board 68 has a connection terminal 70. The circuit board 68 is provided on the adapter 74. Therefore, by mounting the adapter 74 on the connector 13, the circuit board 68 can be easily connected to the board connection portion 61.

[0153] (5) With the liquid reservoir 14 connected to the connector 13, the circuit board 68 is positioned at a higher position than the outlet 72. Therefore, even if, for example, liquid drips from the outlet 72, the possibility of liquid adhering to the circuit board 68 can be reduced.

[0154] (6) The connecting part 64 is connected to the lower part of the liquid storage container 65. Therefore, compared with the case where, for example, the connecting part 64 is connected to the upper part of the liquid storage container 65, the amount of liquid remaining in the liquid storage container 65 can be reduced.

[0155] (7) The first filter 69 is detachably mounted on the injection port 79. Therefore, the first filter 69 can be easily replaced.

[0156] (8) The liquid container 14 is provided with a holding part 67. Therefore, the liquid container 14 can be moved easily.

[0157] (9) The connecting part 64 has a flow channel 73 that can connect the inlet part 76 and the adapter 74. Therefore, the connecting part 64 can easily connect the liquid collection container 65 to the connecting body 13. Therefore, liquid can be supplied from the liquid collection container 65, which is located separately from the liquid dispensing device 12, to the liquid dispensing device 12 via the connecting body 13.

[0158] <Change Example>

[0159] This embodiment can be modified and implemented in the following ways. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other within the scope of technical inconsistency.

[0160] (First example of change)

[0161] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the liquid reservoir 14 can also be configured to include a liquid reservoir 65 and a connecting portion 64. The liquid reservoir 14 can also include a circuit board 68. An outlet 80 can also be provided on the first side surface 65a. The connecting portion 64 can also be configured as an adapter 74 mounted on the first side surface 65a. The outlet 72 can also be directly connected to the outlet 80. The circuit board 68 can also be provided on the connecting portion 64. By connecting the connecting portion 64 to the connecting body 13, the circuit board 68 can be easily connected to the board connecting portion 61.

[0162] The liquid collection container 65 may also have an upper surface 65e with an inlet 79, a first side surface 65a (an example of a side facing the direction of the outlet 72), and second to fourth side surfaces 65b to 65d (an example of multiple sides different from the first side). The inlet 79 may also be located closer to the first side surface 65a than the center of the upper surface 65e. Therefore, since the user can inject liquid while confirming the connection status of the outlet 72 and the connector 13, it is easy to control even in the event of a poor connection. With the liquid collection container 14 connected to the connector 13, the circuit board 68 may also be positioned higher than the outlet 72.

[0163] (Second example of change)

[0164] like Figure 4 As shown, the retaining part 66 can be mounted on both the liquid receiving container 65 and the connecting part 64. The circuit board 68 can also be provided on the retaining part 66. The circuit board 68 is positioned separately from the outlet 72 of the connecting part 64. Therefore, even if, for example, liquid drips from the outlet 72, the possibility of liquid adhering to the circuit board 68 can be reduced. When the liquid receiving body 14 is connected to the connecting body 13, the circuit board 68 can also be positioned higher than the outlet 72.

[0165] (Third example of change)

[0166] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, the connecting portion 64 may also include a flow channel 73 and an adapter 74. The liquid reservoir 14 may also include a circuit board 68. The upstream end of the flow channel 73 may also be connected to the outlet 80 formed on the first side surface 65a. The circuit board 68 may also be provided on the connecting portion 64. The liquid reservoir 65 may also have an upper surface 65e with an injection port 79, a first side surface 65a as an example of a side surface that is closest to the position where the flow channel 73 is connected, and a second side surface 65b to a fourth side surface 65d as examples of multiple sides that are different from the first side surface 65a. The injection port 79 may also be provided at a position closer to the first side surface 65a than the center of the upper surface 65e. Thus, since the user can inject liquid while confirming the connection status of the liquid reservoir 65 and the flow channel 73, it is easy to control even in the event of poor connection. When the liquid reservoir 14 is connected to the connecting body 13, the circuit board 68 may also be positioned at a higher position than the outlet portion 72.

[0167] (Fourth change example)

[0168] like Figure 7 As shown, the retaining part 66 can also be mounted on the connecting part 64. For example, the retaining part 66 can also be mounted on the adapter 74. The circuit board 68 can also be provided on the retaining part 66. When the liquid reservoir 14 is connected to the connecting part 13, the circuit board 68 can also be positioned at a higher position than the outlet part 72.

[0169] (Fifth change example)

[0170] like Figure 8 , Figure 9As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have an upper surface 65e with an inlet 79 provided thereon. The liquid collection container 65 may also have a third side 65c, an example of a side closest to the location connected to the flow channel 73, and a first side 65a, a second side 65b, and a fourth side 65d, examples of multiple sides different from the first side. The inlet 79 may also be located closer to the third side 65c than to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0171] (Sixth change example)

[0172] like Figure 10 As shown, the retaining part 66 can also be mounted on both the liquid receiving container 65 and the connecting part 64. The circuit board 68 can also be provided on the retaining part 66.

[0173] (Seventh change example)

[0174] like Figure 11 As shown, the upper surface 65e can also have multiple surfaces. Each surface can be either a plane or a curved surface. Each surface can be either a horizontal plane or an inclined plane that is tilted relative to a horizontal plane. The inlet 79 can also be provided on one of the multiple surfaces constituting the upper surface 65e, on the surface adjacent to the first side surface 65a, which is an example of a side surface facing the direction of the outlet 72. When the inlet 79 is formed on an inclined plane that descends forward in the depth direction Y, the user can easily inject liquid into the liquid receiving container 65 from a forward position.

[0175] (Eighth change example)

[0176] like Figure 12 As shown, the injection port 79 can also be located on the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location of the flow channel 73 among the multiple faces constituting the upper surface 65e.

[0177] (Ninth change example)

[0178] like Figure 13 As shown, the injection port 79 can also be located on the third side 65c, an example of a side surface, which is closest to the location of the flow channel 73 among the multiple surfaces constituting the upper surface 65e. When the injection port 79 is formed on the inclined surface that descends from the inside in the depth direction Y, it is easy for the user to inject liquid from the inside relative to the liquid receiving container 65.

[0179] (Tenth change example)

[0180] like Figure 14As shown, the visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on a first side 65a, which is one example of a side facing the opening of the outlet section 72. By providing the visual confirmation section 81 on the first side 65a, the user can inject liquid while visually confirming the liquid level 86 of the liquid from the visual confirmation section 81.

[0181] (Eleventh change example)

[0182] like Figure 15 As shown, the visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected.

[0183] (Twelfth change example)

[0184] like Figure 16 As shown, the visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected.

[0185] (Example of the thirteenth change)

[0186] like Figure 17 As shown, the visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on at least one of the second side 65b to the fourth side 65d, which is an example of a plurality of sides, different from the first side 65a facing the opening of the outlet 72. The visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on the second side 65b. By providing the visual confirmation section 81 on a side other than the first side 65a, the possibility of liquid adhering to the visual confirmation section 81 can be reduced, for example, even if liquid drips from the inlet 79. The visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on the second side 65b and the third side 65c. The visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on the second side 65b and the fourth side 65d. The visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on the third side 65c and the fourth side 65d. The visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on the second side 65b, the third side 65c, and the fourth side 65d.

[0187] (Example of the fourteenth change)

[0188] like Figure 18 As shown, the visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on a third side 65c, which is different from the first side 65a facing the opening of the outlet section 72.

[0189] (Example of the fifteenth change)

[0190] like Figure 19As shown, the visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the first side 65a facing the opening of the outlet section 72.

[0191] (Sixteenth change example)

[0192] like Figure 20 As shown, the visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on at least one of the second to fourth sides 65d, which are different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location connected to the flow channel 73. The visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on the second side 65b. The visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on both the second and third sides 65c. The visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on both the second and fourth sides 65d. The visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on both the third and fourth sides 65d. The visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on the second, third, and fourth sides 65d.

[0193] (Seventeenth change example)

[0194] like Figure 21 As shown, the visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on a third side 65c that is different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the position where the flow channel 73 is connected.

[0195] (Example of the eighteenth change)

[0196] like Figure 22 As shown, the visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the position where the flow channel 73 is connected.

[0197] (Example of the nineteenth change)

[0198] like Figure 23 As shown, the visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on at least one of the following multiple sides, namely, a first side 65a, a second side 65b, and a fourth side 65d, which are different from the third side 65c closest to the flow channel 73. The visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on the first side 65a. The visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on both the first side 65a and the second side 65b. The visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on both the first side 65a and the fourth side 65d. The visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on both the second side 65b and the fourth side 65d. The visual confirmation unit 81 can also be provided on the first side 65a, the second side 65b, and the fourth side 65d.

[0199] (Twentieth change example)

[0200] like Figure 24 As shown, the visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on a second side 65b, which is different from the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the position where the flow channel 73 is connected.

[0201] (Example of the twenty-first change)

[0202] like Figure 25 As shown, the visual confirmation section 81 can also be provided on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the position where the flow channel 73 is connected.

[0203] (Example 22)

[0204] like Figure 26 As shown, the liquid receiving container 65 may also have a second side 65b to a fourth side 65d that are different from the first side 65a facing the direction of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be located on at least one of the second side 65b to the fourth side 65d, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e. The inlet 79 may also be located on the second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e. Therefore, since the user can inject liquid from a side different from the side where the outlet 72 is connected to the connector 13, it is easy to ensure space for injecting liquid around the inlet 79. The inlet 79 may also be located on the second side 65b and the third side 65c, which are closer to the center of the upper surface 65e. The inlet 79 may also be located on the third side 65c and the fourth side 65d, which are closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0205] (Example 23)

[0206] like Figure 27 As shown, the injection port 79 can also be located further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than the third side 65c.

[0207] (Example 24)

[0208] like Figure 28 As shown, the injection port 79 can also be located further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than the fourth side surface 65d.

[0209] (Example 25)

[0210] like Figure 29As shown, the liquid receiving container 65 may also have a second side 65b to a fourth side 65d that are different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is also connected. The inlet 79 may also be located on at least one of the second side 65b to the fourth side 65d, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e. The inlet 79 may also be located on the second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e. Therefore, since the user can inject liquid from a side of the liquid receiving container 65 different from the side connected to the flow channel 73, it is easy to ensure space for injecting liquid around the inlet 79. The inlet 79 may also be located on the second side 65b and the third side 65c, which are closer to the center of the upper surface 65e. The inlet 79 may also be located on the third side 65c and the fourth side 65d, which are closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0211] (Example of the twenty-sixth change)

[0212] like Figure 30 As shown, the injection port 79 can also be located further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than the third side 65c.

[0213] (Example 27)

[0214] like Figure 31 As shown, the injection port 79 can also be located further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than the fourth side surface 65d.

[0215] (Example 28)

[0216] like Figure 32 As shown, the liquid receiving container 65 may also have a first side 65a, a second side 65b, and a fourth side 65d that are different from the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be located closer to at least one of the first side 65a, the second side 65b, and the fourth side 65d than the center of the upper surface 65e. The inlet 79 may also be located closer to the first side 65a than the center of the upper surface 65e. The inlet 79 may also be located closer to both the first side 65a and the second side 65b than the center of the upper surface 65e. The inlet 79 may also be located closer to both the first side 65a and the fourth side 65d than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0217] (Example 29)

[0218] like Figure 33 As shown, the injection port 79 can also be located further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than the second side 65b.

[0219] (Example of the thirtieth change)

[0220] like Figure 34 As shown, the injection port 79 can also be located further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than the fourth side surface 65d.

[0221] (Example of the thirty-first change)

[0222] like Figure 35 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a first side 65a facing the opening of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e. Since the inlet 79 is provided on a side different from the first side 65a where the visual confirmation section 81 is provided, the possibility of liquid adhering to the visual confirmation section 81 can be reduced, for example, even if liquid drips from the inlet 79.

[0223] (Example 32)

[0224] like Figure 36 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a first side 65a facing the opening of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a third side 65c, which is further away from the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0225] (Example of the thirty-third change)

[0226] like Figure 37 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a first side 65a facing the opening of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a fourth side 65d, which is further from the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0227] (Example of the thirty-fourth change)

[0228] like Figure 38 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0229] (Example 35)

[0230] like Figure 39As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on the third side 65c, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0231] (Example of the thirty-sixth change)

[0232] like Figure 40 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on the fourth side 65d, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0233] (Example 37)

[0234] like Figure 41 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on the first side 65a, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0235] (Example of the thirty-eighth change)

[0236] like Figure 42 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0237] (Example 39)

[0238] like Figure 43 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a fourth side 65d, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0239] (Example of the 40th change)

[0240] like Figure 44 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a second side 65b, which is different from the first side 65a facing the direction of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a third side 65c, which is further away from the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0241] (Example of the forty-first change)

[0242] like Figure 45 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a third side 65c, which is different from the first side 65a facing the direction of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided on the third side 65c, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0243] (Example 42)

[0244] like Figure 46 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the first side 65a facing the direction of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a third side 65c, which is further away from the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0245] (Example 43)

[0246] like Figure 47 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a second side 65b, which is different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a third side 65c, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0247] (Example of the forty-fourth change)

[0248] like Figure 48 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a third side 65c, which is different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on the third side 65c, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0249] (Example 45: Change)

[0250] like Figure 49 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 located on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be located on a third side 65c, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0251] (Example of the forty-sixth change)

[0252] like Figure 50As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a first side 65a, which is different from the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided closer to the first side 65a than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0253] (Example 47)

[0254] like Figure 51 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a second side 65b, which is different from the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided closer to the first side 65a than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0255] (Example 48)

[0256] like Figure 52 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided closer to the first side 65a than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0257] (Example 49)

[0258] like Figure 53 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a second side 65b, which is different from the first side 65a facing the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than on the second side 65b. Since the visual confirmation section 81 is provided on a side other than the first side 65a, the user can easily monitor the state of the liquid level 86 during normal use.

[0259] (Example of the fiftieth change)

[0260] like Figure 54 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a third side 65c, which is different from the first side 65a facing the direction of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0261] (Example 51)

[0262] like Figure 55As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the first side 65a facing the direction of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0263] (Example 52)

[0264] like Figure 56 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a second side 65b, which is different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on the second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0265] (Example 53)

[0266] like Figure 57 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 located on a third side 65c, which is different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be located on a second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0267] (Example 54)

[0268] like Figure 58 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0269] (Example 55)

[0270] like Figure 59 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a first side 65a, which is different from the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0271] (Example 56)

[0272] like Figure 60As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 located on a second side 65b, which is different from the third side 65c, the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be located further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than on the second side 65b.

[0273] (Example 57)

[0274] like Figure 61 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be provided on the second side 65b, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0275] (Example 58)

[0276] like Figure 62 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a second side 65b, which is different from the first side 65a facing the direction of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a fourth side 65d, which is further away from the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0277] (Example 59)

[0278] like Figure 63 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a third side 65c, which is different from the first side 65a facing the direction of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided on a fourth side 65d, which is further away from the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0279] (Sixtieth change example)

[0280] like Figure 64 As shown, the liquid collection container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 provided on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the first side 65a facing the direction of the outlet 72. The inlet 79 may also be provided on the fourth side 65d, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0281] (Sixty-first amendment)

[0282] like Figure 65 As shown, the liquid receiving container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 on a second side 65b, which is different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be located on a fourth side 65d, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0283] (Example 62)

[0284] like Figure 66 As shown, the liquid receiving container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 on a third side 65c, which is different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be located on a fourth side 65d, which is closer to the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0285] (Example 63)

[0286] like Figure 67 As shown, the liquid receiving container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the first side 65a, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be located further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than on the fourth side 65d.

[0287] (Example of the sixty-fourth change)

[0288] like Figure 68 As shown, the liquid receiving container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 on the first side 65a, which is different from the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be located closer to the fourth side 65d than the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0289] (Example 65)

[0290] like Figure 69 As shown, the liquid receiving container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 on a second side 65b, which is different from the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be located further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than on the fourth side 65d.

[0291] (Sixty-sixth example of change)

[0292] like Figure 70 As shown, the liquid receiving container 65 may also have a visual confirmation section 81 on a fourth side 65d, which is different from the third side 65c, which is the side closest to the location where the flow channel 73 is connected. The inlet 79 may also be located further away from the center of the upper surface 65e than on the fourth side 65d.

[0293] (Other examples of changes)

[0294] Inlet 79 can also be located at the center of the upper surface 65e.

[0295] Inlet 79 can also be formed as a cylindrical shape disposed on the upper surface 65e.

[0296] The connecting part 64 may not be connected to the liquid receiving container 65, or it may be inserted into the upstream end of the flow channel 73 to discharge the liquid in the liquid receiving container 65 from the discharge part 72. Alternatively, the connecting part 64 may be used to insert the inflow part 76, which is located at the upstream end of the flow channel 73, into the liquid receiving container 65.

[0297] The connector 13 can also be used instead of the liquid container 14 to connect a bag-in-a-box container that stores the liquid in a cardboard box. That is, the liquid container 14 and the bag-in-a-box container can be interchanged. The bag-in-a-box container can also have a circuit board 68 that can be electrically connected to the board connection 61. The control unit 20 can also determine whether the connector 13 is connected to the liquid container 14 or the bag-in-a-box container based on information stored in the circuit board 68. When the bag-in-a-box container is connected to the connector 13, the control unit 20 can also report the remaining liquid level. When the liquid container 14 is connected to the connector 13, the control unit 20 may not report the remaining liquid level. That is, the circuit board 68 can also store information for causing the liquid dispensing device 12 to perform actions corresponding to the object connected to the connector 13.

[0298] The scale 82 may not be provided on the visual confirmation section 81. The scale 82 may also be provided at a different position from the visual confirmation section 81. The scale 82 may also be provided at a position where it overlaps with the liquid surface 86 when the user observes the visual confirmation section 81 from the outside. For example, if the first side 65a has a visual confirmation section 81, the scale 82 may also be provided on the third side 65c, which is located on the inside when the first side 65a is observed from the front in the depth direction Y.

[0299] The cap 83 may also be threaded. The cap 83 may also be removable by rotating relative to the liquid receiving container 65.

[0300] The cap 83 can also be installed on the liquid collection container 65 by being embedded in the inlet 79.

[0301] The liquid container 14 can also be configured without the handle 67. The liquid container 14 can also be fixed to the base 15, for example.

[0302] At least one of the first filter 69 and the second filter 75 may also be fixed to the liquid reservoir 14.

[0303] The connecting part 64 can be connected to either the center of the liquid storage container 65 or the upper part of the liquid storage container 65 in the vertical direction Z.

[0304] The retaining part 66 can also cover the entire liquid storage container 65. That is, the visual confirmation part 81 may not need to be provided on the liquid storage body 14.

[0305] With the liquid reservoir 14 connected to the connector 13, the circuit board 68 can be positioned at the same height as the outlet 72 or at a lower position compared to the outlet 72.

[0306] The circuit board 68 can also be mounted on the liquid collection container 65.

[0307] The printing apparatus 11 may also be configured without the substrate connection portion 61 and the circuit board 68. The control unit 20 may also obtain information related to the liquid reservoir 14 connected to the connector 13 from an input portion such as a touch panel.

[0308] The liquid ejection device 12 can also be a liquid ejection device that sprays or ejects liquids other than ink. The state of the liquid ejected from the liquid ejection device as tiny droplets can also include states where it is drawn out as granules, teardrops, or filaments. The liquid referred to here can be any material capable of being ejected from the liquid ejection device. For example, the liquid can be any material in a liquid phase state, including liquids with high or low viscosity, sols, gel water, other inorganic solvents, organic solvents, solutions, liquid resins, liquid metals, molten metals, and other fluids. The liquid is not only a liquid as a state of matter, but also includes particles containing functional materials composed of solids such as pigments and metal particles dissolved, dispersed, or mixed in a solvent. Representative examples of liquids include inks or liquid crystals as described in the above embodiments. Here, ink is defined as a substance including general water-based inks and oil-based inks, as well as various liquid components such as gel inks and hot melt adhesive inks. Specific examples of liquid ejection devices include those that eject liquids containing materials such as electrode materials or color materials used in the manufacture of liquid crystal displays, electroluminescent displays, field emission displays, and color filters, either in a dispersed or dissolved form. Liquid ejection devices can also be devices for ejecting biological organic matter used in the manufacture of biochips, devices used as precision pipettes to eject liquids as samples, dyeing devices, or microdispensers. Liquid ejection devices can also be devices for ejecting lubricating oil into precision machinery such as watches or cameras using a needle, or devices for ejecting transparent resins such as UV-curable resins onto a substrate to form micro-hemispherical lenses or optical lenses used in optical communication components. Liquid ejection devices can also be devices for ejecting etching solutions such as acidic or alkaline solutions to etch substrates.

[0309] The following text describes the technical ideas and effects that can be grasped from the above-described embodiments and modifications.

[0310] (A) A liquid collection body that can be detached from and installed on a connector that is connected to a liquid dispensing device that dispenses liquid, and can be installed at a position separate from the liquid dispensing device, the liquid collection body comprising: a liquid collection container having a collection chamber for collecting the liquid and an inlet for injecting the liquid into the collection chamber; and a connecting part having an outlet for dispensing the liquid in the collection chamber and being connectable to the connector.

[0311] According to this structure, the liquid reservoir can be positioned separately from the liquid dispensing device. That is, the liquid reservoir is located outside the liquid dispensing device. Therefore, the liquid reservoir can increase the capacity of the receiving chamber. Consequently, the amount of liquid injected into the receiving chamber at one time can be increased, and the frequency of liquid injection can be reduced.

[0312] (B) Alternatively, the liquid container may also include a circuit board with connection terminals that can be connected to a board connection portion disposed on the connector.

[0313] According to this structure, the circuit board is connected to the substrate connection portion via a connection terminal. Therefore, the connection state of the liquid container and the connector can be determined based on the presence or absence of an electrical connection between the circuit board and the substrate connection portion.

[0314] (C) Alternatively, the circuit board may be disposed on the connection portion within the liquid containment.

[0315] According to this structure, a circuit board is disposed on the connecting portion. Therefore, by connecting the connecting portion to the connecting body, the circuit board and the board connecting portion can be easily connected.

[0316] (D) Alternatively, the liquid container may also include a holding portion, which is mounted on at least one of the liquid container and the connecting portion, and the circuit board is disposed on the holding portion.

[0317] According to this structure, the circuit board is disposed on the holding portion. That is, the circuit board is disposed at a position separate from the outlet portion of the connecting portion. Therefore, even if, for example, liquid drips from the outlet portion, the possibility of liquid adhering to the circuit board can be reduced.

[0318] (E) Alternatively, in the liquid collection body, the connecting part has: a flow channel that connects the liquid collection container and the outlet; and an adapter that can be detached from the connecting body, the outlet being disposed on the adapter.

[0319] According to this structure, the outlet is mounted on the adapter and connected to the liquid collection container via a flow channel. Therefore, the degree of freedom in positioning the outlet relative to the liquid collection container can be increased.

[0320] (F) Alternatively, the liquid container may also include a circuit board having connection terminals that can be connected to a board connection portion disposed on the connector, wherein the circuit board is disposed on the adapter.

[0321] According to this structure, the circuit board has connection terminals. The circuit board is mounted on the adapter. Therefore, by mounting the adapter on the connector, the circuit board can be easily connected to the board connection portion.

[0322] (G) Alternatively, the circuit board may be positioned at a higher position than the outlet when the liquid reservoir is connected to the connector.

[0323] According to this structure, with the liquid reservoir connected to the connector, the circuit board is positioned at a higher position compared to the outlet. Therefore, even if, for example, liquid drips from the outlet, the possibility of liquid adhering to the circuit board can be reduced.

[0324] (H) Alternatively, the circuit board may be positioned at a higher position than the outlet when the liquid reservoir is connected to the connector.

[0325] Based on this structure, the same effect as the liquid container described above can be achieved.

[0326] (I) Alternatively, the liquid collection container may have an upper surface on which the injection port is provided, a side facing the direction of the outlet opening, and a plurality of sides different from the side, wherein the injection port is located closer to the side than the center of the upper surface.

[0327] According to this structure, one side faces the direction of the outlet opening. The inlet is located further to one side than the center of the upper surface. Therefore, since the user can inject liquid while confirming the connection status between the outlet and the connector, it is easy to control even in the event of a poor connection.

[0328] (J) Alternatively, the liquid container may have an upper surface on which the injection port is provided, a side surface that is closest to the side surface connected to the flow channel, and a plurality of sides different from the side surface, wherein the injection port is located closer to the side surface than to the center of the upper surface.

[0329] According to this structure, one side is the side closest to the location where the flow channel is connected. The inlet is located on one side further away from the center of the upper surface. Therefore, since the user can inject liquid while confirming the connection status between the liquid receiving container and the flow channel, it is easy to control even in the event of a poor connection.

[0330] (K) Alternatively, a visual confirmation part capable of visually confirming the liquid level within the liquid container may be provided on one side of the liquid container.

[0331] According to this structure, the visual confirmation section is located on one side. Therefore, the user can inject liquid while visually confirming the liquid level through the visual confirmation section.

[0332] (L) Alternatively, in the liquid containment body, a visual confirmation part capable of visually confirming the liquid level in the liquid containment container is provided on at least one of the plurality of sides.

[0333] According to this structure, the visual confirmation section is located on a side other than the other side. Therefore, even if, for example, liquid drips from the injection port, the possibility of liquid adhering to the visual confirmation section can be reduced.

[0334] (M) Alternatively, the liquid collection container may have an upper surface on which the injection port is provided, a side facing the direction of the outlet opening, and a plurality of sides different from the one side, wherein the injection port is located at at least one of the plurality of sides further from the center of the upper surface than at the center of the upper surface.

[0335] According to this structure, one side faces the direction in which the outlet opens. The inlet is located on a side different from the center of the upper surface. Therefore, since the user can inject liquid from a side different from the side connected to the outlet and the connector, it is easy to ensure space for liquid injection around the inlet.

[0336] (N) Alternatively, the liquid container may have an upper surface on which the injection port is provided, a side surface that is closest to the side surface connected to the flow channel, and a plurality of sides different from the one side surface, wherein the injection port is provided at at least one of the plurality of sides that is closer to the center of the upper surface than to the center of the upper surface.

[0337] According to this structure, one side is the side closest to the location where the flow channel is connected. The inlet is located on a side different from the center of the upper surface. Therefore, since the user can inject liquid from a side different from the side connected to the liquid receiving container and the flow channel, it is easy to ensure space around the inlet for liquid injection.

[0338] (O) Alternatively, a visual confirmation part capable of visually confirming the liquid level within the liquid container may be provided on one side of the liquid container.

[0339] According to this structure, the visual confirmation section is provided on the first side. Therefore, even if, for example, liquid drips from the injection port, the possibility of liquid adhering to the visual confirmation section can be reduced.

[0340] (P) Alternatively, in the liquid containment body, a visual confirmation part capable of visually confirming the liquid level within the liquid containment container is provided on at least one of the plurality of sides.

[0341] According to this structure, the visual confirmation section is located on a side other than the side itself. Therefore, during normal use, the user can easily grasp the state of the liquid level.

[0342] (Q) Alternatively, the connecting part can be connected to the lower part of the liquid storage container in the liquid storage body.

[0343] According to this structure, the connecting part is connected to the lower part of the liquid storage container. Therefore, compared to the case where the connecting part is connected to the upper part of the liquid storage container, the amount of liquid remaining in the liquid storage container can be reduced.

[0344] (R) Alternatively, the liquid container may also include a filter that is detachably mounted at the inlet.

[0345] According to this structure, the filter is installed at the injection port in a detachable manner. Therefore, the filter can be easily replaced.

[0346] (S) Alternatively, the liquid container may also have a handle that the user can hold.

[0347] According to this structure, the liquid container has a holding part. Therefore, the liquid container can be easily moved.

[0348] (T) The printing apparatus comprises: a liquid ejection device that ejects liquid; a connector that is connected to the liquid ejection device; and a liquid receiving body as described in technical solution 1, which is detachably connected to the connector.

[0349] Based on this structure, the same effect as the liquid container described above can be achieved.

[0350] (U) The connecting part is a connecting part that can be disassembled and installed on the connecting body at its downstream end and can be disassembled and installed on or inserted into the liquid storage container at its upstream end, and includes: an inflow part that can be connected to or inserted into the liquid storage container; an adapter that can be connected to the connecting body; a flow channel that connects the inflow part and the adapter; and a circuit board.

[0351] According to this structure, the connecting part has a flow channel that can connect the inlet part and the adapter. Therefore, the connecting part can easily connect the liquid collection container to the connecting body. Thus, liquid can be supplied to the liquid dispensing device from the liquid collection container, which is located at a position separate from the liquid dispensing device, via the connecting body.

[0352] Symbol Explanation

[0353] 11…Printing device; 12…Liquid ejection device; 13…Connector; 14…Liquid collection body; 15…Base; 17…Slide carriage; 18…Liquid ejection section; 19…Liquid supply section; 20…Control section; 22…Filter inside ejection section; 23…Nozzle; 24…Nozzle forming surface; 26…Connector; 27…Liquid supply channel; 28…Supply valve; 29…Supply pump; 30…Collection section; 31…Upstream valve; 32…Intermediate storage section; 33…Downstream valve; 34…Pressure regulating mechanism; 35…Pressure mechanism; 36…Liquid volume sensor; 38…Housing; 39…Supply filter; 40…Filter chamber; 41…Discharge channel; 42…Pressure sensor; 43…Discharge valve; 44…Waste liquid tank; 46…Air supply section; 47…Air supply channel; 48…Air pressure sensor; 49…Air valve; 50…Pressing part; 52…Filter inside valve; 53…Supply 54…Pressure chamber; 55…Valve body; 56…Spring; 57…Diaphragm; 58…Connecting hole; 59…Connecting part; 60…Inlet part; 61…Baseboard connecting part; 62…Connecting channel; 64…Connecting part; 65…Liquid collection container; 65a…First side; 65b…Second side; 65c…Third side; 65d…Fourth side; 65e…Upper surface; 65f…Lower surface; 66…Holding part; 67…Holding part; 68…Circuit board; 69…First filter as an example of a filter; 70…Connecting terminal; 72…Outlet; 73…Flow channel; 74…Adapter; 75…Second filter; 76…Inlet; 78…Receiving chamber; 79…Inlet; 80…Outlet; 81…Visual confirmation section; 82…Scale; 83…Cap; 84…Atmospheric opening; 86…Liquid level; X…Width direction; Y…Depth direction; Z…Vertical direction.

Claims

1. A liquid container, characterized in that, It can be attached to and detached from the connector that connects to the liquid ejection device, and can be positioned separately from the liquid ejection device. The liquid receiving body includes: A liquid storage container having a storage chamber for storing the liquid and an inlet for injecting the liquid into the storage chamber; The connecting part has an outlet portion capable of discharging the liquid in the storage chamber and can be connected to the connecting body; A retaining part is installed on at least one of the liquid receiving container and the connecting part. The liquid collection container has an upper surface with the injection port, a side facing the direction of the outlet opening, and multiple sides different from the one side. The injection port is located further to one side than to the center of the upper surface. The portion of the liquid receiving container that protrudes from the holding part becomes a visual confirmation part that allows for visual confirmation of the liquid level within the liquid receiving container. The visual confirmation unit is located on one of the sides.

2. A liquid container, characterized in that, It can be attached to and detached from the connector that connects to the liquid ejection device, and can be positioned separately from the liquid ejection device. The liquid receiving body includes: A liquid storage container having a storage chamber for storing the liquid and an inlet for injecting the liquid into the storage chamber; The connecting part has an outlet portion capable of discharging the liquid in the storage chamber and can be connected to the connecting body; A retaining part is installed on at least one of the liquid receiving container and the connecting part. The liquid collection container has an upper surface with the injection port, a side facing the direction of the outlet opening, and multiple sides different from the one side. The injection port is located further to one side than to the center of the upper surface. The portion of the liquid receiving container that protrudes from the holding part becomes a visual confirmation part that allows for visual confirmation of the liquid level within the liquid receiving container. The visual confirmation unit is disposed on at least one of the plurality of sides.

3. A liquid container, characterized in that, It can be attached to and detached from the connector that connects to the liquid ejection device, and can be positioned separately from the liquid ejection device. The liquid receiving body includes: A liquid storage container having a storage chamber for storing the liquid and an inlet for injecting the liquid into the storage chamber; The connecting part has an outlet portion capable of discharging the liquid in the storage chamber and can be connected to the connecting body; A retaining part is installed on at least one of the liquid receiving container and the connecting part. The liquid collection container has an upper surface with the injection port, a side facing the direction of the outlet opening, and multiple sides different from the one side. The injection port is located at at least one of the plurality of sides, which is further away from the center of the upper surface. The portion of the liquid receiving container that protrudes from the holding part becomes a visual confirmation part that allows for visual confirmation of the liquid level within the liquid receiving container. The visual confirmation unit is located on one of the sides.

4. The liquid containment body according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, It also includes a circuit board with connection terminals. The connection terminal can be connected to the substrate connection portion provided on the connector.

5. The liquid containment body as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The circuit board is disposed on the connection portion.

6. The liquid containment body as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The circuit board is disposed on the holding portion.

7. The liquid containment body as described in claim 4, characterized in that, With the liquid reservoir connected to the connector, the circuit board is positioned at a higher position than the outlet.

8. A liquid container, characterized in that, It can be attached to and detached from the connector that connects to the liquid ejection device, and can be positioned separately from the liquid ejection device. The liquid receiving body includes: A liquid storage container having a storage chamber for storing the liquid and an inlet for injecting the liquid into the storage chamber; The connecting part has an outlet portion capable of discharging the liquid in the storage chamber and can be connected to the connecting body; A retaining part is installed on at least one of the liquid receiving container and the connecting part. The connecting portion has: A flow channel that connects the liquid receiving container and the outlet; An adapter that can be attached to and detached from the connector. The export section is located on the adapter. The liquid receiving container has an upper surface with the injection port, a side surface that is closest to the side surface connected to the flow channel, and multiple sides that are different from the one side surface. The injection port is located further to one side than to the center of the upper surface. The portion of the liquid receiving container that protrudes from the holding part becomes a visual confirmation part that allows for visual confirmation of the liquid level within the liquid receiving container. The visual confirmation unit is located on one of the sides.

9. A liquid container, characterized in that, It can be attached to and detached from the connector that connects to the liquid ejection device, and can be positioned separately from the liquid ejection device. The liquid receiving body includes: A liquid storage container having a storage chamber for storing the liquid and an inlet for injecting the liquid into the storage chamber; The connecting part has an outlet portion capable of discharging the liquid in the storage chamber and can be connected to the connecting body; A retaining part is installed on at least one of the liquid receiving container and the connecting part. The connecting portion has: A flow channel that connects the liquid receiving container and the outlet; An adapter that can be attached to and detached from the connector. The export section is located on the adapter. The liquid receiving container has an upper surface with the injection port, a side surface that is closest to the side surface connected to the flow channel, and multiple sides that are different from the one side surface. The injection port is located further to one side than to the center of the upper surface. The portion of the liquid receiving container that protrudes from the holding part becomes a visual confirmation part that allows for visual confirmation of the liquid level within the liquid receiving container. The visual confirmation unit is disposed on at least one of the plurality of sides.

10. A liquid container, characterized in that, It can be attached to and detached from the connector that connects to the liquid ejection device, and can be positioned separately from the liquid ejection device. The liquid receiving body includes: A liquid storage container having a storage chamber for storing the liquid and an inlet for injecting the liquid into the storage chamber; The connecting part has an outlet portion capable of discharging the liquid in the storage chamber and can be connected to the connecting body; A retaining part is installed on at least one of the liquid receiving container and the connecting part. The connecting portion has: A flow channel that connects the liquid receiving container and the outlet; An adapter that can be attached to and detached from the connector. The export section is located on the adapter. The liquid receiving container has an upper surface with the injection port, a side surface that is closest to the side surface connected to the flow channel, and multiple sides that are different from the one side surface. The injection port is located at at least one of the plurality of sides, which is further away from the center of the upper surface. The portion of the liquid receiving container that protrudes from the holding part becomes a visual confirmation part that allows for visual confirmation of the liquid level within the liquid receiving container. The visual confirmation unit is located on one of the sides.

11. The liquid containment body according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that, It also includes a circuit board with connection terminals. The connection terminal can be connected to the substrate connection portion provided on the connector. The circuit board is mounted on the adapter.

12. The liquid containment body as described in claim 11, characterized in that, With the liquid reservoir connected to the connector, the circuit board is positioned at a higher position than the outlet.

13. The liquid containment body according to any one of claims 1 to 3, and claims 8 to 10, characterized in that, The connecting part is connected to the lower part of the liquid storage container.

14. The liquid containment body according to any one of claims 1 to 3, and claims 8 to 10, characterized in that, It also includes a filter, which is installed at the injection port in a removable manner.

15. The liquid containment body according to any one of claims 1 to 3, and claims 8 to 10, characterized in that, It also has a control unit that users can control.

16. A printing apparatus, characterized in that, have: A liquid ejection device that ejects liquid; A connector that is connected to the liquid ejection device; The liquid container according to any one of claims 1 to 15 is connected to the connector in a detachable manner.

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