Liquid storage container and method for storing liquid in liquid storage container

Abstract

The present invention provides a liquid holding container that reduces the possibility of ink in an ink holding chamber flowing out through an atmospheric opening during an ink injection process. The liquid holding container includes a liquid holding chamber, a liquid supply port, a liquid supply path, an atmospheric opening port for introducing atmosphere into the liquid holding chamber, and an atmospheric introduction path connecting the atmospheric opening port to the liquid holding chamber. The liquid holding container includes a capture portion, the capture portion including: a first region including a columnar space and allowing air introduced from the atmospheric opening port to flow into the columnar space; and a second region extending in a direction different from the first region and connected to the first region via a circular opening. The second region is defined by a wall portion provided with a circular opening, a surrounding wall protruding from the wall portion and surrounding the circular opening, and a partition membrane joined to the top of the surrounding wall and separating the space surrounded by the surrounding wall from the outside of the liquid holding container.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid containing container and a method for containing liquid in the liquid containing container. Background Art

[0002] In the past, there is a technology for refilling ink into a used ink cartridge. In the technology of Patent Document 1, in the ink cartridge, the ink ejection port is connected to the differential pressure valve storage chamber. In addition, the ink ejection port, the first ink storage chamber, and the second ink storage chamber are connected in sequence. The flow path that connects the first ink storage chamber and the second ink storage chamber via the first ink flow port is located on the side opposite to the differential pressure valve storage chamber relative to the membrane valve of the differential pressure valve.

[0003] In the technology of patent document 1, first, an insertion path is formed using a drill bit from the outside of the ink cartridge to the flow path connecting the differential pressure valve storage chamber and the ink ejection outlet in the ink cartridge. By inserting a sealing plug into the insertion path, the differential pressure valve storage chamber and the ink ejection outlet are cut off. Ink is injected from the ink ejection outlet. Since the ink does not flow into the differential pressure valve storage chamber, the pressure of the path from the ink ejection outlet through the first ink storage chamber to the first ink flow port sealed by the differential pressure valve is higher than that in the differential pressure valve storage chamber. As a result, the membrane valve is deformed and the first ink flow port is opened. As a result, the ink injected from the ink ejection outlet is filled into the first ink storage chamber and the second ink storage chamber. Then, the sealing plug is removed to seal the insertion path.

[0004] In the technology of Patent Document 2, as described below, ink is refilled into the ink cartridge. The ink cartridge is arranged in a posture where the nozzle of the ink cartridge faces upward. The atmospheric opening is sealed. An injection port is opened in the middle of the flow path from the atmospheric opening to the liquid ink holding chamber. The interior is set to negative pressure through the injection port, and liquid ink is injected from the injection port. Then, the ink cartridge is rotated in accordance with the curvature of the liquid ink flow path of the ink cartridge, and the ink nozzle is sucked at the same time, so that the liquid ink injected into each chamber and the ink holding chamber moves, thereby discharging bubbles in the liquid remaining sensor chamber.

[0005] [Prior art literature]

[0006] [Patent Document]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-89790

[0008] [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-241012

[0009] In any of the above-mentioned techniques, during the process of injecting ink, since the ink cartridge is arranged in various directions, there is a possibility that the ink in the ink containing chamber may flow out to the outside through the atmosphere opening. Summary of the invention

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a liquid storage container having a housing is provided. The liquid storage container comprises: a liquid storage chamber, which is arranged in the housing and stores liquid; a liquid supply port, which supplies the liquid in the liquid storage chamber to the outside of the liquid storage container and is arranged in the housing; a liquid supply path, which is arranged in the housing and connects the liquid supply port to the liquid storage chamber; an atmosphere opening port, which is used to introduce the atmosphere into the liquid storage chamber and is arranged in the housing; and an atmosphere introduction path, which is arranged in the housing and connects the atmosphere opening port to the liquid storage chamber. The liquid storage container includes one or more capture parts constituting a part of the atmosphere introduction path, and the capture part includes: a first region, which includes one or more columnar spaces and allows the air introduced from the atmosphere opening port to flow into the columnar spaces; and a second region, which extends in a direction different from the first region and is connected to the first region via a circular opening having a circular outer shape and provided on a wall portion constituting a part of the liquid storage container. The second area includes an area defined by the wall portion, the surrounding wall and the partition wall membrane, the wall portion is provided with the circular opening, the surrounding wall protrudes from the wall portion and surrounds the circular opening, and the partition wall membrane is joined to the top end of the surrounding wall and separates the space surrounded by the surrounding wall from the outside of the liquid holding container.

[0011] According to this method, even when the liquid storage container is arranged in various directions, the first area and the second area extending in different directions included in the capture portion constituting a part of the atmosphere introduction path can capture the liquid. As a result, the possibility of the liquid in the liquid storage chamber flowing out to the outside through the atmosphere opening can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the liquid storage container IC according to the present embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 It is an exploded perspective view of the liquid storage container IC according to this embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 It is a side view of the liquid storage container IC.

[0015] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 IV-IV cross-sectional view.

[0016] Figure 5 It is from Figure 3 A side view of the liquid holding container IC viewed from the opposite direction.

[0017] Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing the liquid storage container IC in a state where the sealing film FLe, the partition wall film FLp, etc. are not attached.

[0018] Figure 7 It is magnified Figure 3 as well as Figure 6 An enlarged view of a portion near the capture portion 4C is shown.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a block diagram showing the structure of a suction device 700 used when refilling ink into a used liquid storage container IC.

[0020] Fig. 9 This is a block diagram showing the structure of a filling device 800 used when refilling ink into a used liquid storage container IC.

[0021] Fig.10 This is a flowchart showing a process of refilling ink into a liquid storage container.

[0022] Fig.11 This is a table showing the open and closed states of each valve when the liquid storage container is refilled with ink.

[0023] Fig.12 It is a partial cross-sectional view showing the structure near the cylindrical spaces 412 and 413 of the capturing portion 4C.

[0024] Fig.13 It is a partial cross-sectional view showing the structure near the spaces 412 and 413 after step S200.

[0025] Fig.14 It is a partial cross-sectional view showing the structure near the spaces 412 and 413 after step S500.

[0026] Fig.15 It is a partial cross-sectional view showing the structure near the spaces 412 and 413 after step S600.

[0027] Fig.16 Yes means Fig.10 FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a state near the hole FLpO of the partition wall film FLp after the process of step S600.

[0028] Fig.17 Yes means Fig.10 Flowchart of the processing in step S600.

[0029] Fig.18 It is a perspective view showing the liquid storage container ICb in a state where the sealing film FLe, the partition wall film FLp, etc. are not attached.

[0030] [Description of symbols]

[0031] 117: liquid storage chamber; 118: flow hole; 119: flow hole; 120: communication path; 121: liquid storage chamber; 200: liquid supply port; 300: liquid supply path; 322: flow hole; 323: flow hole; 324: flow hole; 325: differential pressure valve; 326: flow hole; 327: flow hole; 328: flow path portion; 400: atmosphere introduction path; 400b: atmosphere introduction path; 401: atmosphere opening port; 402: flow hole; 403: curved flow path portion; 405: flow hole; 406: flow hole; 407: flow hole; 408: air chamber; 409: air chamber; 410 : first area; 410o: circular opening; 411: first area; 411o: circular opening; 412: first area; 412o: circular opening; 413: first area; 413o: circular opening; 414: air chamber; 415: flow hole; 416: flow hole; 417: first area; 418: first area; 4C: capture part; 4C1: first area; 4C2: second area; 4C3: third area; 4C21: flow path part; 4C22: flow path part; 4C23: flow path part; 4C24: flow path part; 4CA: first unit; 4CB: second unit; 4CS: second capture part; 4H: barrier Wall flow path portion; 4H1: flow path portion of barrier flow path portion 4H; 4H2: flow path portion of barrier flow path portion 4H; 700: suction device; 701: suction path; 701o: opening end; 710: vacuum pump; 720: ink interception portion; 730: pressure gauge; 800: filling device; 801: supply path; 810: ink tank; 820: plunger pump; 830: injection nozzle; 830t: frustum portion; 840: atmosphere opening portion; 900: housing; 910: cover; 1402: wall portion; 1404: surrounding wall; 1406: wall portion; 1408: surrounding wall; FLe: sealing film; FLi: inner film; FLp: partition wall membrane; FLp1: first partition wall membrane; FLp2: second partition wall membrane; FLpO: hole; FLsp: supply port membrane; FLv: ventilation membrane; FLvO: hole; GM: rubber membrane; IC: liquid holding container; ICb: liquid holding container; L1: first layer; L2: second layer; L3: third layer; L4: fourth layer; Lb: label; MC: memory chip; PR: prism; SP2: coil spring; SP3: coil spring; SR: sealing rubber; V2: valve; V71: valve; V81: valve; V82: valve; V83: valve; VC: valve cover; WP1: welding part; WP2: welding part. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] A. First embodiment

[0033] A1. Structure of liquid container

[0034] Figure 1 : is a three-dimensional diagram showing a liquid storage container IC of the present embodiment. The liquid storage container IC contains ink inside. The liquid storage container IC is mounted on the printer so that ink is supplied to the printer from the liquid supply port 200. The liquid storage container IC has a box 900 having a rectangular outer shape. The box 900 is made of polypropylene (PP). When the liquid storage container IC is installed in the printer for use, it has a memory chip MC on one side surface serving as a side surface. The memory chip MC has terminals, and is electrically connected to the circuit of the printer via the terminals. In the following, the names of the "bottom surface" of the box 900, the "top surface" of the box 900, and the "side surface" of the box 900 are used based on the posture when it is installed in the printer for use.

[0035] Figure 2 1 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid storage container IC of this embodiment. The liquid storage container IC includes a rubber membrane GM, a coil spring SP3, and a valve cover VC (see Figure 2 The rubber film GM, the coil spring SP3 and the valve cover VC are sequentially overlapped in the liquid storage container IC to form a differential pressure valve 325. The differential pressure valve 325 will be described later.

[0036] The liquid storage container IC is provided with a coil spring SP2, a valve V2, a sealing rubber SR, a supply port film FLsp (see Figure 2 The coil spring SP2, valve V2, and seal rubber SR are sequentially arranged in the liquid supply path 300 near the liquid supply port 200. The supply port film FLsp seals the liquid supply port 200. When the liquid storage container IC is used, the supply port film FLsp is peeled off from the box body 900.

[0037] The liquid storage container IC has a prism PR (see FIG. 1 ) on the bottom surface of the housing 900, near the side surface opposite to the side surface on which the memory chip MC is mounted. Figure 2 A portion of the prism PR is exposed in the liquid storage chamber 121 in the liquid storage container 1C. The prism PR reflects light irradiated from the printer, thereby providing information related to the amount of ink in the liquid storage chamber 121 to the printer.

[0038] The liquid storage container IC has an atmosphere opening 401 (see FIG. 1 ) on one side of the housing 900, on the side connected to the side on which the memory chip MC is mounted, and in the vicinity of the side opposite to the side on which the memory chip MC is mounted. Figure 2 The atmosphere opening 401 is sealed by a peelable sealing film FLe (see Figure 1The sealing film FLe has a peelable polyurethane adhesive layer on the surface. The sealing film FLe is peelably attached to the housing 900 by the polyurethane adhesive. The sealing film FLe prevents the ink contained in the liquid holding chambers 117 and 121 in the liquid holding container IC from flowing.

[0039] By setting such a structure, in the state before the liquid storage container 1C starts to be used, the ink flowing out from the capture part 4C further to the atmosphere opening port 401 side in the atmosphere introduction path 400 can be prevented from flowing out to the outside without passing through the atmosphere opening port 401. In addition, the capture part 4C will be described later.

[0040] When the liquid storage container 1C is used, the sealing film FLe is peeled off from the box body 900. That is, the atmosphere opening 401 is opened. The atmosphere opening 401 can allow air to flow between the outside of the liquid storage container 1C and the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 via the atmosphere introduction path 400. As a result, ink can be appropriately sent from the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 to the liquid supply port 200.

[0041] The other part of the one side surface of the box body 900 to which the sealing film FLe is attached is sealed by the partition film FLp (see Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 In the liquid storage container IC before use, the partition wall film FLp is composed of the first partition wall film FLp1. After the liquid storage container IC is used, in a state where the liquid storage container IC is refilled with ink, the partition wall film FLp is composed of the first partition wall film FLp1 and the second partition wall film FLp2 ( Figure 2 The lower left part and Figure 1 ).

[0042] The side opposite to the side of the box body 900 to which the sealing film FLe is attached is sealed by the inner film FLi (see Figure 2 One side sealed by the inner film FLi is further covered by a cover 910.

[0043] A label Lb (see Figure 2 Information indicating the color of the ink contained in the liquid storage container IC is printed on the label Lb.

[0044] Figure 3 It is from Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 A side view of the liquid holding container IC viewed from approximately the same direction. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 IV-IV cross-sectional view. Figure 5It is from Figure 3 A side view of the liquid holding container IC viewed from the opposite direction. Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing the liquid storage container IC in a state where the sealing film FLe, the partition wall film FLp, the vent film FLv, and the supply port film FLsp are not attached.

[0045] The liquid storage container 1C includes liquid storage chambers 117 and 121, a liquid supply port 200, a liquid supply path 300, an atmosphere opening port 401, and an atmosphere introduction path 400. The liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 are provided in the housing 900 and store ink (see Figure 5 The liquid holding chambers 117 and 121 are connected by a connecting path 120 provided in the liquid holding container IC. Specifically, the connecting path 120 allows the ink received from the liquid holding chamber 117 to flow through the flow holes 118 and 119 and supply the ink to the liquid holding chamber 121 (see Figure 3 The middle left part and Figure 5 middle right part of the image).

[0046] The liquid supply port 200 is provided on the bottom surface of the box body 900 (see Figure 3 The lower right part of Figure 5 The lower left part and Figure 6 The liquid supply port 200 supplies the ink in the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 to the outside of the liquid storage container 1C. The liquid supply path 300 is provided in the housing 900.

[0047] The liquid supply path 300 connects the liquid supply port 200 to the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121. Specifically, the liquid supply path 300 allows the ink received from the liquid storage chamber 121 to flow through the flow holes 322, 323, 326, 327 and the flow path portion 328, and supplies the ink to the liquid supply port 200 ( Figure 5 The lower center and the left and middle parts of Figure 4 ).

[0048] The liquid supply path 300 includes a differential pressure valve 325 (see Figure 4The differential pressure valve 325 is composed of a wall portion constituting the housing 900, a rubber membrane GM, a coil spring SP3, and a valve cover VC. The differential pressure valve 325 allows the liquid supply path 300 to be conducted when the pressure of the flow path portion between the differential pressure valve 325 and the liquid supply port 200 in the liquid supply path 300, i.e., the downstream pressure, is lower than the pressure of the flow path portion between the differential pressure valve 325 and the liquid storage chambers 117, 121 in the liquid supply path 300, i.e., the upstream pressure, and the difference between the downstream pressure and the upstream pressure is greater than a predetermined value. The differential pressure valve 325 cuts off the liquid supply path 300 when the difference between the downstream pressure and the upstream pressure is less than the predetermined value described above, or when the downstream pressure is greater than the upstream pressure.

[0049] With such a structure, ink can be appropriately supplied from the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 to the liquid supply port 200 , and reverse flow of ink can be prevented.

[0050] As described above, the atmosphere opening 401 is provided on one side surface of the housing 900 and is provided in a portion near the side surface opposite to the side surface on which the memory chip MC is mounted (see Figure 3 The upper left part and Figure 6 The atmosphere opening 401 introduces the atmosphere into the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121.

[0051] The air introduction path 400 is provided in the housing 900. The air introduction path 400 connects the air opening 401 and the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121. Specifically, the air introduction path 400 introduces air through the air opening 401, flows through the flow holes 402, 405, 406, 407, 415, and 416, and supplies air to the liquid storage chamber 117 (see Figure 3 as well as Figure 5 ).

[0052] The atmosphere introduction path 400 includes a curved flow path portion 403, a barrier flow path portion 4H, air chambers 408 and 409, a capture portion 4C, and an air chamber 414 in this order from the atmosphere opening 401 toward the liquid storage chamber 117 (see Figure 3 as well as Figure 5 ).

[0053] The capture portion 4C constitutes a part of the air introduction path 400 (see Figure 3 The lower right part of Figure 5 The lower left part and Figure 6 The capturing portion 4C has a function of capturing ink that has intruded into the atmosphere introduction path 400. The structure of the capturing portion 4C will be described in detail later.

[0054] The air introduction path 400 is blocked by the air permeable membrane FLv at a position closer to the air opening 401 than the capturing portion 4C (see Figure 3 The air-permeable membrane FLv is welded to the top of the wall that surrounds the flow hole 405 and is lower in height than the surrounding wall, and separates the space surrounded by the lower wall from the space surrounding the lower wall. The air-permeable membrane FLv is made of a material that allows air to flow but does not allow the ink contained in the liquid holding chambers 117 and 121 to flow. Specifically, the air-permeable membrane FLv is made of a membrane having micropores of a size that allows oxygen or nitrogen molecules of the gas to flow but does not allow liquid molecules to flow.

[0055] By adopting such a configuration, the liquid that has flowed out from the capturing portion 4C further toward the atmosphere opening 401 in the atmosphere introduction path 400 can be prevented from flowing out to the outside without passing through the atmosphere opening 401 .

[0056] The barrier flow path portion 4H is located between the capture portion 4C and the air-permeable film FLv in the atmosphere introduction path 400. The barrier flow path portion 4H is located vertically above the capture portion 4C in the posture of the liquid storage container IC when ink is supplied from the liquid supply port 200 of the liquid storage container IC to the outside. Specifically, the barrier flow path portion 4H is a flow path portion 4H1 between the flow port 405 and the flow port 406 and a flow path portion 4H2 between the flow port 406 and the flow port 407 (see Figure 5 The upper left part of Figure 3 The upper right part and Figure 6 ).

[0057] By adopting such a method, even if there is ink that has passed through the capture portion 4C, the ink rises against the gravity and does not reach the air-permeable membrane FLv unless it exceeds the barrier flow path portion 4H located vertically above. Therefore, the possibility that the ink that has passed through the capture portion 4C contacts the air-permeable membrane FLv can be reduced. As a result, the possibility that the air cannot circulate in the atmosphere introduction path 400 due to the entire air-permeable membrane FLv being wetted by ink can be reduced.

[0058] The curved flow path portion 403 is located between the capture portion 4C and the air-permeable membrane FLv in the air introduction path 400 (see Figure 3 The upper left part and Figure 6 The curved flow path portion 403 includes a pair of flow path portions having a smaller cross-sectional area than the flow path portions in front and behind and allowing air to flow in directions 180 degrees different from each other. In this embodiment, the curved flow path portion 403 includes three sets of flow path portions. In addition, the atmosphere introduction path 400 does not have such a curved flow path portion 403 between the capture portion 4C and the liquid holding chambers 117, 121.

[0059] By adopting such a structure, the amount of volatile components of the ink in the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 that evaporates through the atmosphere introduction path 400 can be reduced.

[0060] The air chambers 408, 409, and 414 are chambers for retaining air in the middle of the atmosphere introduction path 400 (see Figure 5 ).

[0061] Figure 7 It is magnified Figure 3 as well as Figure 6 The enlarged view of the portion near the capturing portion 4C is shown. The capturing portion 4C constitutes a part of the air introduction path 400. The capturing portion 4C includes a first region 4C1, a second region 4C2, and a third region 4C3.

[0062] The first area 4C1 is specifically four cylindrical spaces 410, 411, 412, and 413. The cylindrical spaces 410, 411, 412, and 413 extend in directions parallel to each other. The cylindrical spaces 410, 411, 412, and 413 extend in a direction consistent with the horizontal direction when the liquid storage container IC is installed in the printer for use. The cylindrical spaces 410, 411, 412, and 413 are referred to as "first areas". The air introduced from the atmosphere opening 401 flows in the first areas 410, 411, 412, and 413 in the capture section 4C in sequence.

[0063] The second region 4C2 is provided on the side opposite to the first partition wall film FLp1 in the housing 900 (see Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The second region 4C2 is a flow path portion 4C21, 4C22 extending in a direction different from that of the first region 4C1. More specifically, the flow path portions 4C21, 4C22 extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first regions 410, 411, 412, 413 extend. The flow path portions 4C21, 4C22 extend in a direction consistent with the vertical direction when the liquid storage container IC is installed in the printer for use. The flow path portions 4C21, 4C22 are also referred to as "second regions".

[0064] The second region 4C21 is connected to the first region 410 via a circular opening 410o which is provided on the wall portion 1402 constituting a part of the liquid storage container 1C and has a circular outer shape (see Figure 7 The second area 4C21 is connected to the first area 411 via a circular opening 411o provided on the wall portion 1402 and having a circular outer shape.

[0065] The second region 4C21 is defined by the wall portion 1402, the peripheral wall 1403, and the partition film FLp (see Figure 7 The wall portion 1402 is a wall portion provided with a circular opening 410o among the components of the box body 900. The surrounding wall 1403 is a wall portion protruding from the wall portion 1402. The surrounding wall 1403 surrounds the circular opening 410o. The partition film FLp is joined to the top of the surrounding wall 1403. The partition film FLp separates the space surrounded by the surrounding wall 1403 from the outside of the liquid storage container IC (refer to Figure 2 In addition, in order to facilitate the understanding of the technology, Figure 7 The partition wall film FLp is not shown.

[0066] The second region 4C22 is connected to the first region 412 via a circular opening 412o provided on the wall portion 1402 and having a circular outer shape (see Figure 7 The second area 4C22 is connected to the first area 413 via a circular opening 413o provided on the wall portion 1402 constituting a part of the liquid storage container 1C and having a circular shape. Due to such a structure, the circular opening 413o can exchange ink with the second area 4C2 regardless of the orientation of the liquid storage container 1C.

[0067] The second region 4C22 is defined by the wall portion 1402, the peripheral wall 1404, and the partition film FLp (see Figure 7 The wall portion 1402 is a wall portion provided with a circular opening 412o among the components of the box body 900.

[0068] The peripheral wall 1404 is a wall portion protruding from the wall portion 1402. The peripheral wall 1404 surrounds the circular opening 412o. The peripheral wall 1404 includes a first partial wall 1404a and a second partial wall 1404b.

[0069] The first partial wall 1404a is a partial wall surrounding the circular opening 412o. The cylindrical space 412 is connected to the second region 4C22 via the circular opening 412o. The cylindrical space 412 is located on the side of the atmosphere opening 401 than the second region 4C22 in the atmosphere introduction path 400. The second partial wall 1404b is a partial wall surrounding the circular opening 413o. The cylindrical space 413 is connected to the second region 4C22 via the circular opening 413o. The cylindrical space 413 is located on the side of the liquid storage chambers 117, 121 than the second region 4C22 in the atmosphere introduction path 400.

[0070] The space surrounded by the second partial wall 1404b in the second area 4C22 is larger than the space surrounded by the first partial wall 1404a. In addition, the "size of the space surrounded by the first partial wall 1404a" is defined by the diameter of the largest imaginary circle that can be contained in the area surrounded by the first partial wall 1404a when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the opening surface of the circular opening 412o. The "size of the space surrounded by the second partial wall 1404b" is defined by the diameter of the largest imaginary circle that can be contained in the area surrounded by the second partial wall 1404b when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the opening surface of the circular opening 413o. The dimensions related to the space surrounded by the second partial wall 1404b and the space surrounded by the first partial wall 1404a will be further described later.

[0071] By setting it in this way, it is easy to collect ink in the space surrounded by the second partial wall 1404b located closer to the liquid holding chamber 117, 121 in the second area 4C22 than the space surrounded by the first partial wall 1404a. In other words, it is possible to capture more liquid in the space surrounded by the second partial wall 1404b. Therefore, it is easy to guide the ink to the second area 4C2 compared with a method in which the space surrounded by the second partial wall 1404b is smaller than the space surrounded by the first partial wall 1404a. In other words, it is more difficult for the ink to reach the atmosphere opening 401.

[0072] The partition film FLp is bonded to the top end of the peripheral wall 1404. The partition film FLp partitions the space surrounded by the peripheral wall 1404 from the outside of the liquid storage container IC (see Figure 2 In addition, in order to facilitate the understanding of the technology, Figure 7 The partition wall film FLp is not shown.

[0073] The third region 4C3 is provided on the side opposite to the inner film FLi in the box body 900 (see Figure 5 The third region 4C3 is a flow path portion extending in a direction different from the first region 4C1 and the second region 4C2. More specifically, the third region 4C3 extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first regions 410, 411, 412, 413 extend and in a direction that is twisted with the direction in which the second regions 4C21, 4C22 extend.

[0074] The third region 4C3 is connected to the first region 411 via a circular opening having a circular outer shape (see Figure 5 The third region 4C3 is connected to the first region 412 via a circular opening having a circular shape.

[0075] As a result, the air introduced from the atmosphere opening 401 flows through the first region 410, the second region 4C21, the first region 411, the third region 4C3, the first region 412, the second region 4C22, and the first region 413 in order in the capturing section 4C.

[0076] With such a structure, even when the liquid storage container 1C is arranged in various directions, the ink can be captured by the first area 4C1, the second area 4C2, and the third area 4C3 extending in different directions and included in the capture portion 4C constituting a part of the atmosphere introduction path 400. As a result, the possibility of the ink in the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 flowing out to the outside through the atmosphere opening 401 can be reduced.

[0077] In addition, the ink present in the capturing portion 4C can be easily detected from the outside through the partition film FLp by a combination of lighting and a camera, an ultrasonic sensor, etc. Therefore, when it is possible to detect that the ink captured by the capturing portion 4C seals the flow path open to the atmosphere, by removing the liquid storage container IC from the object of use, the liquid storage container IC that cannot properly supply ink from the liquid storage container IC to the outside can be removed from the object of use.

[0078] In the wall portion 1402, the distance d between the outer periphery of the circular opening 413o and the base of the surrounding wall 1404 is 0.6 mm. By setting such a structure, there is a step generated by the wall portion 1402 between the inner wall surface of the surrounding wall 1404 and the circular opening 413o. Therefore, in the case of a change in the direction of the liquid holding container IC, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the ink moving from the cylindrical space 413 as the first area 4C1 to the second area 4C2 connected to the liquid holding chamber 117, 121 returns to the cylindrical space 413 as the first area 4C1 connected to the atmosphere opening 401. Therefore, the ink can be captured more reliably in the second area 4C2. As a result, the risk of backflow of the ink toward the atmosphere opening 401 can be further suppressed.

[0079] In the wall portion 1402, the distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 412o and the base of the surrounding wall 1404 is 0.3 mm. The distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 410o and the base of the surrounding wall 1403 is 0.3 mm. The distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 411o and the base of the surrounding wall 1403 is 0.3 mm. By setting such a structure, the possibility of the ink moving from the cylindrical space 410, 411, 412 as the first area 4C1 to the second area 4C21, 4C22 returning to the cylindrical space 410, 411, 412 again can be reduced, similarly to the structure around the circular opening 413o. Therefore, the ink can be captured more reliably in the second area 4C2.

[0080] The housing 900 includes another wall portion 1406 that protrudes from the wall portion 1402 in the same direction as the surrounding wall 1404 and is adjacent to the surrounding wall 1404. In addition, the meaning of "adjacent" of two wall portions means that there is no other wall portion protruding in the same direction as the two wall portions between the two wall portions. The height of the surrounding wall 1404 is higher than the height of the wall portion 1406. In addition, the height of the surrounding wall 1404 is a dimension measured from the wall portion 1402 in the protruding direction. By setting it in this way, the ink present in the capture portion 4C can be easily detected from the outside through the partition wall film FLp by a combination of lighting and a camera, an ultrasonic sensor, etc. without being hindered by the other wall portion 1406.

[0081] In the present embodiment, the capturing portion 4C includes four, that is, a plurality of, cylindrical spaces 410 , 411 , 412 , and 413 .

[0082] Since the present embodiment has such a structure, more ink can be captured in the plurality of cylindrical spaces 410 , 411 , 412 of the capturing portion 4C, compared with a configuration in which the capturing portion 4C has only one cylindrical space.

[0083] In the technology of the above-mentioned patent document 1, the formation of the insertion path based on the drill bit and the insertion and extraction of the sealing plug for cutting off the differential pressure valve housing chamber and the ink ejection port are performed. In addition, it is necessary to prepare a sealing plug having a shape consistent with the shape of the insertion path and capable of cutting off the differential pressure valve housing chamber and the ink ejection port and then being able to be extracted. Therefore, in the technology of patent document 1, the process for refilling ink is complicated. In addition, the device for refilling ink becomes complicated.

[0084] In the technique of Patent Document 2, it is necessary to suck the ink ejection port while rotating the ink cartridge in accordance with the curvature of the liquid ink flow path of the ink cartridge. Therefore, in the technique of Patent Document 2, the process for refilling the ink is also complicated.

[0085] However, since the liquid storage container IC of the present embodiment has the above-mentioned structure, it is possible to easily store ink in the used liquid storage container IC as described later. That is, a hole FLpO can be provided in the partition membrane FLp, and the injection nozzle 830 having the frustum-shaped portion 830t can be placed in the capture portion 4C through the hole FLpO, and the frustum-shaped portion 830t can be inserted into the circular opening 413o. Furthermore, the circular opening 413o can be sealed by the injection nozzle 830. The ink in the liquid storage chamber IC can be sucked through the liquid supply port 200. As a result, the ink can be sent out from the injection nozzle 830, and the ink can flow into the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 through the circular opening 413o. That is, the pressure in the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 can be reduced and the ink can flow into the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 through the circular opening 413o. The structure and processing used therefor are described in detail below.

[0086] A2. Structure of peripheral equipment of liquid storage container

[0087] Figure 8 2 is a block diagram showing the structure of a suction device 700 used when refilling ink into a used liquid storage container IC. The suction device 700 is connected to the liquid supply port 200 of the liquid storage container IC to suck the ink and air inside the liquid storage container IC (see FIG. Figure 6 ).

[0088] The suction device 700 includes a vacuum pump 710, an ink intercepting portion 720, and a pressure gauge 730. The vacuum pump 710 is connected to the liquid supply port 200 of the liquid container IC via a suction path 701 in the suction device 700 to suck ink and air inside the liquid container IC.

[0089] The ink interception portion 720 is connected to a portion of the suction path 701 between the vacuum pump 710 and the open end 701o of the suction path 701 connected to the liquid storage container 1C. Specifically, the ink interception portion 720 is a chamber located below the suction path 701 in the posture of the suction device 700 when suction is performed by the vacuum pump 710. When the ink and air pass through the suction path 701 by the vacuum pump 710, the ink is attracted by gravity and falls to the ink interception portion 720 below. As a result, only air reaches the vacuum pump 710.

[0090] A valve V71 is provided at a portion of the suction path 701 between the ink intercepting portion 720 and the open end 701 o of the suction path 701. The valve V71 can connect or block the suction path 701.

[0091] The pressure gauge 730 is connected to a portion of the suction path 701 between the valve V71 and the open end 701 o of the suction path 701 , and measures the pressure in the suction path 701 .

[0092] Fig. 9 1 is a block diagram showing the structure of a filling device 800 used to refill ink into a used liquid storage container IC. The filling device 800 is connected to the circular opening 413o of the capture portion 4C of the liquid storage container IC, thereby supplying new ink to the liquid storage container IC (see Figure 6 ).

[0093] The filling device 800 includes an ink tank 810 , a plunger pump 820 , an injection nozzle 830 , and an atmosphere opening portion 840 .

[0094] The plunger pump 820 supplies the ink in the ink tank 810 to the liquid storage container 1C via the supply path 801 and the injection nozzle 830 in the filling device 800. A valve V82 is provided at the supply path 801 between the plunger pump 820 and the injection nozzle 830. The valve V82 can connect or disconnect the supply path 801.

[0095] The ink tank 810 stores ink to be supplied to the liquid storage container IC. The ink tank 810 is connected in parallel with the plunger pump 820 relative to the injection nozzle 830. The ink tank 810 is connected to the portion of the supply path 801 between the valve V82 and the plunger pump 820. A valve V83 is provided between the ink tank 810 and the supply path 801. The valve V83 can connect or disconnect the ink tank 810 to the supply path 801.

[0096] The atmospheric opening portion 840 is connected in parallel with the plunger pump 820 and the ink tank 810 relative to the injection nozzle 830. The atmospheric opening portion 840 is connected to the portion of the supply path 801 between the valve V82 and the injection nozzle 830. The atmospheric opening portion 840 allows the supply path 801 to communicate with the outside of the filling device 800. A valve V81 is provided between the atmospheric opening portion 840 and the supply path 801. The valve V81 can connect or cut off the atmospheric opening portion 840 with respect to the supply path 801.

[0097] The injection nozzle 830 is provided at the front end of the supply path 801. The injection nozzle 830 has an outer shape including a truncated cone-shaped portion 830t and a cylindrical portion having the same central axis. The injection nozzle 830 has a communication path along the central axis of the outer shape. The communication path of the injection nozzle 830 is connected to the supply path 801. The diameter of the front end of the truncated cone-shaped portion 830t is smaller than the diameter of the circular opening 413o of the capture portion 4C of the liquid storage container 1C. The diameter of the end of the truncated cone-shaped outer shape of the injection nozzle 830 is larger than the diameter of the circular opening 413o.

[0098] The injection nozzle 830 is inserted into the circular opening 413o of the capture portion 4C of the liquid storage container 1C to connect the atmosphere introduction path 400 of the liquid storage container 1C with the supply path 801 in the filling device 800. At this time, the wall portion 1402 of the liquid storage container 1C provided with the circular opening 413o is elastically deformed, so that the injection nozzle 830 is in close contact with the wall portion 1402 constituting the outer periphery of the circular opening 413o. As a result, the atmosphere introduction path 400 of the liquid storage container 1C and the supply path 801 in the filling device 800 are sealed from the outside.

[0099] With the above structure, the outer surface of the truncated cone portion of the injection nozzle 830 can seal the outer periphery of the circular opening 413o, and at the same time, the supply path 801 of the filling device 800 can be connected to the atmosphere introduction path 400 of the liquid storage container IC.

[0100] A3. Refilling the liquid container with ink

[0101] Fig.10 This is a flowchart showing a process of refilling ink into a liquid storage container. Fig.11 This is a table showing the open and closed states of each valve when the liquid storage container is refilled with ink. Fig.10 As a result of the processing, ink is contained in the used liquid containing container, thereby manufacturing a new liquid containing container.

[0102] Fig.12 4C is a partial cross-sectional view showing the structure of the cylindrical spaces 412 and 413 of the capture portion 4C. Fig.10 In step S100, the operator provides a hole FLpO in the partition film FLp. Specifically, the hole FLpO is opened in the first partition film FLp1 as the partition film FLp (see Fig.13 ).

[0103] Fig.13 Yes means Fig.10 A partial cross-sectional view of the structure near the spaces 412 and 413 after step S200. In step S200, the operator inserts the injection nozzle 830 having the truncated cone-shaped portion 830t into the capture portion 4C through the hole FLp0 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 6 The lower right part and Fig. 9 ). Then, the operator inserts the truncated cone-shaped portion 830t into the circular opening 413o, thereby sealing the outer periphery of the circular opening 413o with the tapered outer surface of the truncated cone-shaped portion 830t constituting the injection nozzle 830. In this state, the portion of the atmosphere introduction path 400 that reaches the liquid storage chamber 117 and is downstream of the circular opening 413o of the capture portion 4C is connected to the supply path 801 in the filling device 800.

[0104] In the wall portion 1402 of the liquid storage container 1C, the distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 413o and the base of the surrounding wall 1404 is larger than the distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 412o and the base of the surrounding wall 1404 (see Figure 7 ). More specifically, the distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 413o and the base of the surrounding wall 1404 is 0.6 mm. Therefore, the injection nozzle 830 can be inserted into the surrounding wall 1404 and the truncated cone-shaped portion 830t can be easily inserted into the circular opening 413o.

[0105] exist Fig.10 In step S300, the operator connects the suction device 700 to the liquid supply port 200 of the liquid storage container 1C (see Figure 6 The lower right part and Figure 8 Then, valves V71 and V81 are opened, and valves V82 and V83 are closed (refer to Figure 8 , Fig. 9 as well as Fig.11 In this state, the portion of the atmosphere introduction path 400 that reaches the liquid storage chamber 117 downstream of the circular opening 413o of the capture portion 4C is opened to the atmosphere via the supply path 801, valve V81, and atmosphere opening portion 840 in the filling device 800 (see Fig. 9 ).

[0106] Then, the operator drives the vacuum pump 710 of the suction device 700 connected to the liquid supply port 200, thereby sucking the ink in the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 through the liquid supply port 200 (see Figure 8 As a result, the ink in the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 is sucked and stored in the ink interception portion 720. Fig.11 In the process, this process is recorded as "residual ink discharge".

[0107] If the ink is not discharged from the liquid storage container 1C, the valve V81 of the filling device 800 connected to the circular opening 413o of the capture portion 4C is closed (see Fig. 9 as well as Fig.11 As a result, the portion of the atmosphere introduction path 400 that reaches the liquid holding chamber 117 that is downstream of the circular opening 413o of the capturing portion 4C, the liquid holding chambers 117 and 121, and the liquid supply path 300 are sealed from the outside except for the connection with the suction path 701 of the suction device 700.

[0108] During this period, the vacuum pump 710 of the suction device 700 connected to the liquid supply port 200 continues to be driven. As a result, the air in the liquid holding chambers 117 and 121 is sucked through the liquid supply port 200. Since the portion of the atmosphere introduction path 400 that reaches the liquid holding chamber 117 that is downstream of the circular opening 413o of the capture portion 4C, the liquid holding chambers 117 and 121, and the liquid supply path 300 are sealed from the outside, the pressure inside them is lower than the atmospheric pressure. Fig.11 In the present invention, this treatment is referred to as "decompression".

[0109] Then, the valve V71 of the suction path 701 of the suction device 700 is closed (see Figure 8 as well as Fig.11 3rd line). As a result, the portion of the atmosphere introduction path 400 that reaches the liquid holding chamber 117 that is downstream of the circular opening 413o of the capturing portion 4C, the liquid holding chambers 117, 121, and the liquid supply path 300 are sealed relative to the outside. The pressure gauge 730 of the suction device 700 measures the pressure in the suction path 701 connected to these flow paths in the liquid holding container IC. In the case where the pressure rise rate is greater than a predetermined value, the ink refilling operation is terminated. The case where the pressure rise rate is greater than a predetermined value indicates that there is a leak in any of the supply path 801 in the filling device 800, the connection portion between the injection nozzle 830 and the circular opening 413o of the capturing portion 4C, the portion of the atmosphere introduction path 400 that is downstream of the circular opening 413o of the capturing portion 4C, the liquid holding chambers 117, 121, the liquid supply path 300, and the flow path portion connecting these structures. In the case where the pressure rise rate is less than a predetermined value, the ink refilling operation is continued. Fig.11 The above process is referred to as "leakage check".

[0110] exist Fig.10 In step S400, the valve V82 of the filling device 800 connected to the circular opening 413o of the capturing portion 4C is opened (see Fig. 9 as well as Fig.11 4th line of FIG. 1 ). In addition, at this stage, it is assumed that the plunger pump 820 is pre-filled with ink. The filling of the plunger pump 820 with ink will be described later.

[0111] When the valve V82 is opened, ink is delivered from the injection nozzle 830, and the ink flows into the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 through the circular opening 413o of the liquid storage container IC and the atmosphere introduction path 400 (see Figure 6 as well as Figure 5 ).

[0112] Since the atmosphere introduction path 400 of the liquid storage container 1C does not have a structure such as the curved flow path portion 403 between the capture portion 4C and the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 (see Figure 3 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 ). Therefore, the ink can be efficiently injected from the capturing portion 4C into the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121.

[0113] Then, the valve V82 of the filling device 800 connected to the circular opening 413o of the capturing portion 4C is closed, and the valve V81 is opened (see Fig. 9 as well as Fig.11 5th row of ). Then, external air is introduced into the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 through the atmosphere opening portion 840 of the filling device 800 connected to the circular opening 413o of the capture portion 4C and the atmosphere introduction path 400. Fig.11 This treatment is referred to as "opening to the atmosphere".

[0114] Fig.14 4 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the structure near spaces 412 and 413 after step S500. Fig.10 In step S500, the operator withdraws the injection nozzle 830 to the outside of the capturing portion 4C.

[0115] Then, the valve V81 of the filling device 800 is closed and the valve V83 is opened (see Fig. 9 as well as Fig.11 Then, the plunger pump 820 is driven to suck ink from the ink tank 810 and fill it into the plunger pump 820. The ink in the plunger pump 820 is used to fill the ink of the next liquid holding container IC.

[0116] Fig.15 4 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the structure near spaces 412 and 413 after step S600. Fig.10 In step S600, the operator seals the hole FLpO provided in the first partition wall film FLp1 as the partition wall film FLp. More specifically, the hole FLpO is sealed by the second partition wall film FLp2. In this state, the partition wall film FLp is composed of the first partition wall film FLp1 and the second partition wall film FLp2 (see Figure 2 The lower left part and Figure 1 ).

[0117] By performing the above process, even in the liquid storage container 1C having the differential pressure valve 325, the pressure in the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 can be reduced, and the ink can flow into the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 through the circular opening 413o. That is, the ink can be easily contained in the used liquid storage container 1C.

[0118] In this embodiment, the circular opening 413o is located opposite to the resin partition film FLp across the second space 4C22. Therefore, by opening the hole FLpO in the partition film FLp, the injection nozzle 830 can be easily connected to the circular opening 413o to inject ink.

[0119] exist Fig.10 In step S700, the operator seals the atmosphere opening 401 of the liquid storage container IC by using the sealing film FLe that prevents the ink stored in the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 from flowing (see Figure 1 The sealing film FLe is a film that can be peeled off from the housing 900 of the liquid storage container IC.

[0120] By performing this treatment, after filling the ink and before starting to use the refilled liquid holding container IC, the liquid that flows out from the capture portion 4C further toward the atmospheric opening 401 side in the atmospheric introduction path 400 can be prevented from flowing out to the outside without passing through the atmospheric opening 401.

[0121] Fig.16 Yes means Fig.10 FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of the state of the partition wall film FLp near the hole FLpO after the process of step S600. In the state before the hole FLpO is opened, the first partition wall film FLp1 that functions as the partition wall film FLp has a first layer L1 and a second layer L2. The second layer L2 is composed of a material having a higher melting point than the material of the first layer L1. More specifically, the first layer L1 is composed of a polyolefin (PO)-based synthetic resin. The second layer L2 is composed of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-based synthetic resin.

[0122] The first layer L1 is bonded to the top end of the peripheral wall 1404 surrounding the second region 4C22 of the capture portion 4C (see Figure 7 More specifically, the first layer L1 is welded to the top of the surrounding wall 1404. In addition, the "top" of the surrounding wall 1404 means the front end of the surrounding wall 1404 protruding from the wall portion 1402. Fig.16 In FIG. 1 , the welded portion between the first layer L1 and the surrounding wall 1404 is indicated by hatching as a welded portion WP1 .

[0123] The second partition wall film FLp2 is bonded to the first partition wall film FLp1 in order to block the hole FLpO of the first partition wall film FLp1. The second partition wall film FLp2 includes a third layer L3 and a fourth layer L4. The third layer L3 is composed of a material having a lower melting point than the second layer L2. The fourth layer L4 is composed of a material having a higher melting point than the third layer L3. More specifically, the third layer L3 is composed of a polyolefin (PO)-based synthetic resin. The fourth layer L4 is composed of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-based synthetic resin.

[0124] Fig.17 Yes means Fig.10 Flow chart of the process in step S600. Fig.10 In step S600, the hole FLpO included in the partition film FLp is sealed by the second partition film FLp2.

[0125] In step S610 , the operator removes a portion of the second layer L2 of the first spacer film FLp1 until the first layer L1 is exposed. More specifically, a portion of the first spacer film FLp1 located in a ring-shaped region surrounding the hole FLpO is removed.

[0126] In step S620, the operator arranges the second partition wall film FLp2 so that the third layer L3 of the second partition wall film FLp2 is opposite to the first partition wall film FLp1. Then, the operator welds the third layer L3 of the second partition wall film FLp2 to the first layer L1 of the first partition wall film FLp1. More specifically, the third layer L3 of the second partition wall film FLp2 is welded to the first layer L1 of the partition wall film FLp1 at the portion where the first layer L1 is exposed in the first partition wall film FLp1. Fig.16 In FIG. 1 , a welded portion between the third layer L3 of the second partition wall film FLp2 and the first layer L1 of the partition wall film FLp is indicated by hatching as a welded portion WP2 .

[0127] By performing such a process, in the liquid storage container IC after refilling the ink, the strength of the partition film FLp can be ensured by the second layer L2 of the first partition film FLp1 with a high melting point and the fourth layer L4 of the second partition film FLp2 with a high melting point. On the other hand, in the area surrounding the hole FLpO, since the third layer L3 of the second partition film FLp2 and the first layer L1 of the first partition film FLp1 are welded, the second partition film FLp2 and the first partition film FLp1 can be firmly bonded. In addition, it is possible to prevent the ink from leaking to the outside from the second area 4C22 through the hole FLpO.

[0128] When the third layer L3 of the second partition wall film FLp2 is welded to the first layer L1 of the partition wall film FLp, a portion of the surrounding wall 1404 melts due to the heat and flows downward. However, the height of the surrounding wall 1404 is higher than the height of the other wall portion 1406 protruding from the wall portion 1402 and adjacent to the surrounding wall 1404. Therefore, the possibility of the flowing material blocking the circular opening 413o is low. In addition, the distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 413o and the base of the surrounding wall 1404 is larger than the distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 412o and the base of the surrounding wall 1404 (refer to Figure 7 ). Therefore, from this point of view, the possibility of the flowing material blocking the circular opening 413o is also low.

[0129] exist Fig.10 as well as Fig.17 After the treatment, the liquid holding container IC becomes Figure 1 The status shown. Figure 1 In the liquid storage container IC shown, the partition film FLp includes a first partition film FLp1 and a second partition film FLp2. The first partition film FLp1 is joined to the top of the surrounding wall 1404, separates the space surrounded by the surrounding wall 1404 from the outside of the liquid storage container IC, and has a hole FLpO. The second partition film FLp2 seals the hole FLpO of the first partition film FLp1. More specifically, the third layer L3 of the second partition film FLp2 is fused to the first layer L1 of the first partition film FLp1 in the portion where the second layer L2 is not provided in the first partition film FLp1 (see Fig.16 The second layer L2 of the first partition wall film FLp1 is in contact with the second partition wall film FLp2. The third layer L3 of the second partition wall film FLp2 is in contact with the second layer L2 of the first partition wall film FLp1.

[0130] The ink in this embodiment is also referred to as "liquid". The injection nozzle 830 is also referred to as a "nozzle". The capture portion 4C is also referred to as a "receiving portion". The portion of the liquid storage container 1C consisting of the wall portion 1402, the cylindrical space 413, the surrounding wall 1404, and the second area 4C22 is also referred to as a "receiving portion" in a narrow sense.

[0131] B. Second Implementation

[0132] The liquid storage container 1Cb of the second embodiment includes a second capturing portion 4CS between the capturing portion 4C of the air introduction path 400b and the air chamber 414. The other points of the liquid storage container 1Cb are the same as those of the liquid storage container 1C of the first embodiment.

[0133] Fig.18It is a perspective view showing the liquid storage container ICb in a state where the sealing film FLe, the partition wall film FLp, the vent film FLv, and the supply port film FLsp are not attached.

[0134] The second capturing portion 4CS includes a portion that functions as the first region 4C1 and a portion that functions as the second region 4C2 (see Fig.18 The first region 4C1 is specifically two cylindrical spaces 417 and 418. The cylindrical spaces 417 and 418 extend in parallel directions. When the liquid storage container 1Cb is installed in the printer and used, the cylindrical spaces 417 and 418 extend in a direction consistent with the horizontal direction. The cylindrical spaces 417 and 418 are also referred to as "first regions". The air introduced from the atmosphere opening 401 flows in the first regions 417 and 418 in sequence in the second capture section 4CS.

[0135] The flow path portion 4C24 extending in a direction different from the first region 4C1 functions as the second region 4C2. More specifically, the flow path portion 4C24 extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first regions 417 and 418 extend. The flow path portion 4C24 is also referred to as a "second region".

[0136] The second region 4C24 is connected to the first region 417 via a circular opening which is provided on the wall portion 1402 constituting a part of the liquid storage container 1C and has a circular outer shape (see Fig.18 The second region 4C24 is connected to the first region 418 via a circular opening provided on the wall portion 1402 and having a circular shape. As a result, the air introduced from the atmosphere opening 401 flows through the first region 417, the second region 4C24, and the first region 418 in the second capture portion 4CS in sequence.

[0137] The second region 4C24 is defined by the wall portion 1402, the peripheral wall 1408, and the partition film FLp. The circular opening of the first region 417 and the circular opening of the first region 418 are located opposite to the partition film FLp via the second region 4C24 as a space.

[0138] The wall portion 1402 is a wall portion provided with a circular opening of the first region 417 among the components of the housing 900. The surrounding wall 1408 is a wall portion protruding from the wall portion 1402. The surrounding wall 1408 surrounds the circular openings of the first regions 417 and 418. The distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening of the first region 418 and the base of the surrounding wall 1408 is 0.6 mm. The distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening of the first region 417 and the base of the surrounding wall 1408 is 0.3 mm.

[0139] The partition film FLp is bonded to the top of the peripheral wall 1408. The partition film FLp partitions the space surrounded by the peripheral wall 1408 from the outside of the liquid storage container IC. Fig.18 The partition wall film FLp is omitted.

[0140] The liquid storage container ICb includes two capture parts 4C and 4CS. Therefore, compared with the liquid storage container IC having only one capture part 4C, more ink can be captured in the capture parts 4C and 4CS. In addition, the ink can be refilled from the circular opening of the first area 418. That is, the ink is refilled through the circular opening 413o of the first area 413, and the hole FLpO opened in the first partition film FLp1 is blocked with the second partition film FLp2. After the liquid storage container ICb is reused more than once, the liquid storage container ICb is further refilled through the circular opening of the first area 418, and the hole opened in the first partition film FLp1 is blocked with the second partition film FLp2, so that the liquid storage container ICb can be reused. Therefore, the liquid storage container ICb can be used for a longer period of time.

[0141] C. Other Implementation Methods

[0142] C1. Other Implementation Methods 1

[0143] (1) In the first embodiment described above, the first region 4C1 is specifically four cylindrical spaces 410, 411, 412, 413 (see Figure 7 ). However, the first region 4C1 may also include regions other than the cylindrical space.

[0144] (2) In the first embodiment described above, the second region 4C2 is the flow path portions 4C21 and 4C22 extending in a direction different from that of the first region 4C1 (see Figure 7 ). However, the second region may further include a portion other than the flow path portion extending in a direction different from that of the first region.

[0145] (3) In the first embodiment, the first layer L1 of the first partition wall film FLp1 is made of a polyolefin (PO)-based synthetic resin (see Fig.16 ). The third layer L3 of the second partition wall film FLp2 is made of a polyolefin (PO)-based synthetic resin. However, these layers may be made of other materials such as ester-based resins.

[0146] (4) In the first embodiment, the second layer L2 of the first partition wall film FLp1 is made of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-based synthetic resin (see Fig.16). The fourth layer L4 of the second partition wall film FLp2 is made of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-based synthetic resin. However, these layers may be made of other materials such as nylon-based resins.

[0147] (5) In the first embodiment described above, Fig.10 In the process of the invention, a process of forming a hole FLvO in the vent film FLv of the liquid container IC so that the ink contained in the liquid container chambers 117 and 121 can flow through the vent film FLv may be further included. In this case, a hole is inevitably formed in the first partition film FLp1 covering one side of the housing 900. Therefore, the hole formed in the first partition film FLp1 is formed by contacting the vent film FLv1 with the liquid container 1C. Fig.10 The same processing as the processing of step S600 is blocked.

[0148] In the liquid storage container IC that has been subjected to the refilling process including such a process, the atmosphere introduction path 400 is partitioned by a vent film FLv having holes FLv0 through which ink can flow, at a location closer to the atmosphere opening 401 than the capture portion 4C. Figure 3 In FIG. 5 , the hole FLvO is indicated by a dotted line.

[0149] By performing such a process, during the ink refilling process, even if the air-permeable film FLv is wetted by the ink in the air-introducing path 400 and cannot pass air, the air can flow through the hole FLv0 provided in the air-permeable film FLv in the air-introducing path 400. Therefore, the liquid storage container IC after the ink refilling can be used appropriately.

[0150] (6) In the above embodiment, the liquid storage container IC stores ink. However, the liquid stored in the liquid storage container may be, for example, the following liquids.

[0151] (i) Color materials used in the production of color filters for image display devices such as liquid crystal displays.

[0152] (ii) Electrode materials used in forming electrodes of organic EL (ElectroLuminescence) displays, field emission displays (FED), and the like.

[0153] (iii) Liquids containing bioorganic matter used in biochip manufacturing.

[0154] (iv) As a sample for a precision pipette.

[0155] (v) Lubricating oil.

[0156] (vi) Resin liquid.

[0157] (vii) Transparent resin liquid such as ultraviolet curing resin liquid for forming microscopic hemispherical lenses used in optical communication elements and the like.

[0158] (viii) A liquid of an acidic or alkaline etching liquid is sprayed to etch a substrate or the like.

[0159] (ix) Any other liquid.

[0160] C2. Other Implementation Methods 2

[0161] In the first embodiment, the liquid supply path 300 of the liquid storage container 1C includes the differential pressure valve 325 (see Figure 4 However, the liquid storage container 1C may also be configured without a differential pressure valve. In such a liquid storage container, liquid can be retained by allowing the gaps of the elastic porous material in the liquid storage container to contain liquid.

[0162] C3. Other Implementation Methods 3

[0163] In the first embodiment described above, the atmosphere introduction path 400 of the liquid storage container IC is blocked by the air-permeable film FLv (see Figure 3 However, the liquid storage container may be configured not to include such a membrane in the atmosphere introduction path.

[0164] C4. Other Implementation Methods 4

[0165] In the first embodiment, the air introduction path 400 includes the barrier flow path portion 4H (see Figure 5 The upper left part of Figure 3 The upper right part and Figure 6 The barrier flow path portion 4H is located vertically above the capture portion 4C in the posture of the liquid container IC when ink is supplied from the liquid supply port 200 of the liquid container IC to the outside. However, the liquid container may be configured not to have such a structure in the atmosphere introduction path.

[0166] C5. Other Implementation Methods 5

[0167] In the first embodiment, the air introduction path 400 includes the curved flow path portion 403 (see Figure 3 The upper left part and Figure 6The curved flow path portion 403 includes a pair of flow path portions having a smaller cross-sectional area than the flow path portions in front and behind and allowing air to flow in directions 180 degrees different from each other. However, the liquid holding container may also be configured to not have a curved flow path portion in the atmosphere introduction path. In addition, the atmosphere introduction path may also have such a curved flow path portion between the capture portion and the liquid holding chamber.

[0168] C6. Other Implementation Methods 6

[0169] In the first embodiment described above, the atmosphere opening 401 is sealed by a peelable sealing film FLe (see Figure 1 However, the liquid storage container may be configured not to have a sealing film that seals the opening open to the atmosphere.

[0170] C7. Other Implementation Methods 7

[0171] In the first embodiment, the columnar space through which the air introduced from the atmosphere opening flows is the cylindrical space 410 (see Figure 7 ). The opening connecting the first area and the second area is a circular opening 410o having a circular shape. However, the columnar space may also have other shapes such as a triangular prism, a quadrangular prism, an elliptical prism, etc. The opening may also have other shapes such as a triangle, a quadrilateral, an ellipse, etc.

[0172] C8. Other Implementation Methods 8

[0173] In the first embodiment described above, the first region 4C1 includes four cylindrical spaces 410, 411, 412, and 413 (see Figure 7 ). However, the first region may also be configured to have only one cylindrical space. In addition, the first region may also have six cylindrical spaces as shown in the second embodiment. In addition, the number of cylindrical spaces in the first region may also be two, three, five, or other numbers.

[0174] C9. Other Implementation Methods 9

[0175] In the second embodiment, the liquid storage container ICb includes two capture portions 4C and 4CS (see Fig.18 ). However, the number of capturing parts included in the liquid storage container may be four, five, or other numbers.

[0176] C10. Other Implementation Methods 10

[0177] In the first embodiment, the height of the surrounding wall 1404 is higher than the height of the other adjacent wall portions 1406 (see Figure 7 ). However, the height of the surrounding wall may be the same as or lower than the height of other adjacent wall portions.

[0178] C11. Other Implementation Methods 11

[0179] In the first embodiment described above, the space surrounded by the second partial wall 1404b in the second region 4C22 is larger than the space surrounded by the first partial wall 1404a (see Figure 7 ). However, the space surrounded by the second partial wall 1404b located closer to the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 may be smaller than the space surrounded by the first partial wall 1404a.

[0180] C12. Other Implementation Methods 12

[0181] In the first embodiment described above, the distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 413o and the base of the surrounding wall 1404 in the wall portion 1402 is 0.6 mm (see Figure 7 ). In addition, in the wall portion 1402, the distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 412o and the base of the surrounding wall 1404 is 0.3mm. The distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 410o and the base of the surrounding wall 1403 is 0.3mm. The distance between the outer periphery of the circular opening 411o and the base of the surrounding wall 1403 is 0.3mm. However, these dimensions may also be other dimensions such as 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.8mm, etc. However, it is preferred that the outer periphery of the circular opening 413o does not contact the base of the surrounding wall 1404 and is separated via the wall portion 1402.

[0182] C13. Other implementations 13

[0183] In the first embodiment described above, the distance d between the outer periphery of the circular opening 413o and the base of the surrounding wall 1404 in the wall portion 1402 is 0.6 mm (see Figure 7 ). However, the distance between the periphery of the opening and the base of the surrounding wall may also be other values ​​such as 0.4 mm, 0.8 mm, etc.

[0184] C14. Other Implementation Methods 14

[0185] In the first embodiment, after the liquid container IC is used and the liquid container IC is refilled with ink, the partition film FLp is composed of the first partition film FLp1 and the second partition film FLp2 (see Figure 2 The lower left part and Figure 1 However, the partition film FLp may be configured to be composed of the first partition film FLp1 and not include the second partition film FLp2 after the liquid storage container IC is used. Such a configuration may be configured to include, for example, a cover portion that seals the space surrounded by the surrounding wall 1404 relative to the outside of the liquid storage container IC.

[0186] C15. Other implementations 15

[0187] In the first embodiment, the first partition film FLp1 includes the first layer L1 and the second layer L2. However, the first partition film may be composed of only one layer or three or more layers. However, it is preferred that the portion in contact with the peripheral wall is made of a material that can be bonded to the top of the peripheral wall.

[0188] In the first embodiment, the second partition film FLp2 includes the third layer L3 and the fourth layer L4. However, the second partition film may be composed of only one layer or three or more layers. However, the portion in contact with the first partition film is preferably composed of a material that can be bonded to the first partition film.

[0189] C16. Other Implementation Methods 16

[0190] In (1) of the above-mentioned other embodiment 1, the air introduction path 400 is divided by a ventilation membrane FLv having holes FLv0 through which ink can flow at a location closer to the air opening 401 than the capture portion 4C (see Figure 3 However, as shown in the first embodiment, the liquid storage container that has been refilled may be partitioned by a ventilation membrane that does not have a hole through which ink can flow.

[0191] C17. Other implementations 17

[0192] In the first embodiment, the operator welds the third layer L3 of the second partition wall film FLp2 to the first layer L1 of the partition wall film FLp (see Fig.16 as well as Fig.17 ). However, the second partition film may be attached to the first partition film by an adhesive or a bonding agent, and the holes of the first partition film may be blocked by other methods.

[0193] C18. Other implementations 18

[0194] In the first embodiment described above, after step S200 and before step S400, the ink in the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 is sucked through the liquid supply port 200 (see Figure 8 as well as Fig.10 However, it is also possible that the step of sucking the ink in the liquid holding chamber 117, 121 through the liquid supply port 200 is omitted, and after the outer periphery of the circular opening 413o is sealed with the conical outer surface of the truncated cone-shaped portion 830t constituting the injection nozzle 830, the ink is flowed into the liquid holding chamber 117, 121 through the circular opening 413o of the liquid holding container IC and the atmosphere introduction path 400 (refer to Figure 6 as well as Figure 5 ). Even in such a manner, liquid can flow into the liquid storage chamber.

[0195] C19. Other implementations 19

[0196] In step S700 of the first embodiment, the operator seals the atmosphere opening 401 of the liquid storage container IC with the sealing film FLe that prevents the ink stored in the liquid storage chambers 117 and 121 from flowing. (See Figure 1 The upper left part and Fig.10 ) However, the filling process of the liquid storage container may be performed in a manner that does not include sealing the atmosphere opening.

[0197] C20. Other Implementation Methods 20

[0198] In the first embodiment, the operator removes a portion of the second layer L2 of the first partition wall film FLp1 until the first layer L1 is exposed, and welds the third layer L3 of the second partition wall film FLp2 to the first layer L1 of the partition wall film FLp (see Fig.16 as well as Fig.17 However, the entire first partition film and the entire second partition film may be formed of a material that is easily heat-welded, and the second partition film may be welded to the first partition film without removing a portion of the first partition film.

[0199] D.Other methods

[0200] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and can be implemented in various ways without departing from the scope of its purpose. For example, the present invention can also be implemented in the following ways. In order to solve part or all of the problems of the present invention, or to achieve part or all of the effects of the present invention, the technical features in the above-mentioned embodiments corresponding to the technical features in each mode described below can be appropriately replaced or combined. In addition, if the technical features are not described as essential technical features in this specification, they can be appropriately deleted.

[0201] (1) According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid storage container having a housing. The liquid storage container comprises: a liquid storage chamber, which is provided in the housing and stores liquid; a liquid supply port, which supplies the liquid in the liquid storage chamber to the outside of the liquid storage container and is provided in the housing; a liquid supply path, which is provided in the housing and connects the liquid supply port to the liquid storage chamber; an atmosphere opening port, which is used to introduce the atmosphere into the liquid storage chamber and is provided in the housing; and an atmosphere introduction path, which is provided in the housing and connects the atmosphere opening port to the liquid storage chamber. The liquid storage container comprises one or more capture parts constituting a part of the atmosphere introduction path, the capture part comprising: a first region, which comprises one or more columnar spaces and allows the air introduced from the atmosphere opening port to flow into the columnar spaces; and a second region, which extends in a direction different from the first region and is connected to the first region via an opening provided on a wall portion constituting a part of the liquid storage container. The second area includes an area defined by the wall portion, the surrounding wall and the partition wall membrane, the wall portion is provided with the opening, the surrounding wall protrudes from the wall portion and surrounds the opening, and the partition wall membrane is joined to the top end of the surrounding wall and separates the space surrounded by the surrounding wall from the outside of the liquid holding container.

[0202] If it is set in such a way, even when the liquid holding container is arranged in various directions, the liquid can be captured by the first area and the second area extending in different directions included in the capture part constituting a part of the atmosphere introduction path. As a result, the possibility of the liquid in the liquid holding chamber flowing out to the outside through the atmosphere opening can be reduced. In addition, the liquid present in the capture part can be easily detected from the outside via the partition wall film. Therefore, in the case where the liquid captured by the capture part can be detected to seal the atmosphere opening flow path, the liquid holding container can be removed from the object of use, thereby removing the liquid holding container from the object of use, which cannot be properly supplied with liquid from the liquid holding container to the outside.

[0203] (2) In the liquid holding container of the above-mentioned method, it can also be set as follows: it is equipped with a differential pressure valve, which is arranged in the liquid supply path, and the pressure of the flow path portion between the differential pressure valve and the liquid supply port in the liquid supply path, that is, the downstream pressure, is lower than the pressure of the flow path portion between the differential pressure valve and the liquid holding chamber in the liquid supply path, that is, the upstream pressure, and when the difference between the downstream pressure and the upstream pressure is greater than a predetermined value, the differential pressure valve makes the liquid supply path conductive, and when the difference between the downstream pressure and the upstream pressure is less than the predetermined value, or when the downstream pressure is greater than the upstream pressure, the differential pressure valve cuts off the liquid supply path.

[0204] By adopting such a configuration, the liquid can be appropriately supplied from the liquid storage chamber to the liquid supply port, and reverse flow of the liquid can be prevented.

[0205] (3) In the liquid holding container of the above-mentioned method, it can also be set as follows: the atmosphere introduction path is blocked by a breathable membrane at a position closer to the atmosphere opening side than the capture part, and the breathable membrane is made of a material that allows air to flow but does not allow the liquid contained in the liquid holding chamber to flow.

[0206] By adopting such a configuration, the liquid that has flowed out from the portion further toward the atmosphere opening side from the capturing portion in the atmosphere introduction path can be prevented from flowing out to the outside without passing through the atmosphere opening.

[0207] (4) In the liquid holding container of the above-mentioned method, it can also be set as follows: the atmosphere introduction path is between the capturing part and the air-permeable membrane, including a flow path portion that is located vertically above the capturing part when the liquid is supplied from the liquid supply port to the outside.

[0208] By adopting such a configuration, the possibility that the liquid that has passed through the capturing portion contacts the air-permeable membrane can be reduced. As a result, the possibility that the air cannot flow through the atmosphere introduction path due to the entire air-permeable membrane being wetted by the liquid can be reduced.

[0209] (5) In the liquid holding container of the above-mentioned method, it can also be set as follows: the atmosphere introduction path has a curved flow path portion between the capturing portion and the air-permeable membrane, and the curved flow path portion includes a pair of flow path portions whose cross-sectional areas are smaller than those of the front and rear flow path portions and allow air to flow in directions 180 degrees different from each other, and the atmosphere introduction path does not have the curved flow path portion between the capturing portion and the liquid holding chamber.

[0210] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the amount of volatile components of the liquid in the liquid storage chamber that evaporate through the atmosphere introduction path.

[0211] (6) In the liquid storage container of the above aspect, the atmosphere opening may be sealed by a peelable sealing film that prevents the liquid stored in the liquid storage chamber from flowing.

[0212] By adopting such a configuration, in a state before the liquid container is used, liquid that has flowed out from the capturing portion further toward the atmosphere opening side in the atmosphere introduction path can be prevented from flowing out to the outside without passing through the atmosphere opening.

[0213] (7) In the liquid storage container of the above aspect, the columnar space may be a cylindrical space, and the opening may be a circular opening having a circular outer shape.

[0214] In such a configuration, the liquid can be easily retained in the cylindrical space regardless of the posture of the liquid storage container.

[0215] (8) In the liquid storage container of the above aspect, the capturing portion may include a plurality of the columnar spaces.

[0216] According to this configuration, compared with a configuration in which the capturing portion includes only one columnar space, more liquid can be captured in the plurality of columnar spaces in the capturing portion.

[0217] (9) In the liquid storage container of the above aspect, it may be configured as follows: a plurality of the capturing parts are included.

[0218] By adopting such a configuration, more liquid can be captured in the capturing part compared to a liquid storage container including only one capturing part.

[0219] (10) In the liquid storage container of the above aspect, the height of the peripheral wall may be higher than the height of another wall portion that protrudes from the wall portion and is adjacent to the peripheral wall.

[0220] By adopting such a configuration, the liquid present in the capturing section can be easily detected from the outside through the partition wall film.

[0221] (11) In the liquid holding container of the above-mentioned manner, it can also be set as follows: the first region as the one or more columnar spaces includes: a first columnar space, which is located on the side of the atmosphere opening port than the second region in the atmosphere introduction path, and is connected to the second region via the first opening as the opening; and a second columnar space, which is located on the side of the liquid holding chamber than the second region in the atmosphere introduction path, and is connected to the second region via the second opening as the opening, and the surrounding wall includes: a first partial wall, which surrounds the first opening; and a second partial wall, which surrounds the second opening, and the space surrounded by the second partial wall in the second region is larger than the space surrounded by the first partial wall.

[0222] By setting it in this way, in the second region, the space surrounded by the second partial wall located closer to the liquid storage chamber is more likely to collect liquid than the space surrounded by the first partial wall. Therefore, compared with a case where the space surrounded by the second partial wall is smaller than the space surrounded by the first partial wall, it is more difficult for the liquid to reach the atmosphere opening.

[0223] (12) In the liquid storage container of the above aspect, in the wall portion, a predetermined distance may exist between the outer periphery of the opening and the base of the surrounding wall.

[0224] In such a manner, there is a step between the inner wall surface of the surrounding wall and the opening. Therefore, the possibility of the liquid moving from the first area to the second area returning to the first area again can be reduced. Therefore, the liquid can be captured more reliably in the second area.

[0225] (13) In the liquid storage container of the above aspect, the predetermined distance may be equal to or greater than 0.6 mm.

[0226] (14) In the liquid holding container of the above-mentioned method, it can also be set as follows: the partition wall film comprises: a first partition wall film, which is joined to the top end of the surrounding wall and separates the space surrounded by the surrounding wall from the outside of the liquid holding container, and has a hole; and a second partition wall film, which seals the hole of the first partition wall film.

[0227] (15) In the liquid storage container of the above-mentioned method, it can also be set as follows: the first partition wall film comprises: a first layer, which is joined to the top end of the surrounding wall; and a second layer, which is composed of a material with a higher melting point than the material of the first layer and is in contact with the second partition wall film, and the second partition wall film comprises: a third layer, which is composed of a material with a lower melting point than the material of the second layer and is in contact with the second layer; and a fourth layer, which is composed of a material with a higher melting point than the material of the third layer, and the third layer of the second partition wall film is fused to the first layer of the first partition wall film in a portion of the first partition wall film where the second layer is not provided.

[0228] If it is set in this way, the strength of the partition film can be ensured by the second layer of the first partition film with a high melting point and the fourth layer of the second partition film with a high melting point. On the other hand, since the third layer of the second partition film is fused with the first layer of the first partition film, the second partition film and the first partition film can be firmly bonded.

[0229] (16) In the liquid holding container of the above-mentioned method, it can also be set as follows: the atmosphere introduction path is separated by a breathable membrane at a position closer to the atmosphere opening side than the capturing part, and the breathable membrane is made of a material that allows air to flow but does not allow the liquid contained in the liquid holding chamber to flow, and has a hole through which the liquid contained in the liquid holding chamber can flow.

[0230] (17) According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a liquid storage container is provided. The liquid storage container comprises: a housing; a liquid storage chamber, which is provided in the housing and stores liquid; a liquid supply port, which supplies the liquid in the liquid storage chamber to the outside of the liquid storage container and is provided in the housing; a liquid supply path, which is provided in the housing and connects the liquid supply port with the liquid storage chamber; a differential pressure valve, which is provided in the liquid supply path and allows the liquid supply path to be conducted when the pressure of the flow path portion between the differential pressure valve and the liquid supply port in the liquid supply path, i.e., the downstream pressure, is lower than the pressure of the flow path portion between the differential pressure valve and the liquid storage chamber in the liquid supply path, i.e., the upstream pressure, and when the difference between the downstream pressure and the upstream pressure is greater than a predetermined value, the differential pressure valve blocks the liquid supply path when the difference between the downstream pressure and the upstream pressure is less than the predetermined value or the downstream pressure is greater than the upstream pressure; an atmosphere opening port, which is used to introduce the atmosphere into the liquid storage chamber and is provided in the housing; and an atmosphere introduction path, which is provided in the housing and connects the atmosphere opening port with the liquid storage chamber.

[0231] The liquid storage container includes one or more receiving parts constituting a part of the atmosphere introduction path, and the receiving part includes: a first area including one or more cylindrical spaces and allowing the air introduced from the atmosphere opening to flow into the cylindrical spaces; and a second area extending in a direction different from the first area and connected to the first area via a circular opening provided on a wall portion constituting a part of the liquid storage container and having a circular outer shape. The second area includes an area defined by the wall portion, a surrounding wall, and a partition wall film, the wall portion having the circular opening, the surrounding wall protruding from the wall portion and surrounding the circular opening, and the partition wall film being joined to the top end of the surrounding wall and separating the space surrounded by the surrounding wall from the outside of the liquid storage container.

[0232] The method includes the following steps: a step of setting a hole on the partition wall membrane; a step of placing a nozzle having a truncated cone-shaped portion into the receiving portion through the hole and inserting the truncated cone-shaped portion into the circular opening, thereby sealing the outer periphery of the circular opening with the outer surface of the truncated cone-shaped portion; a step of sending liquid from the nozzle and allowing the liquid to flow into the liquid holding chamber through the circular opening; a step of withdrawing the nozzle to the outside of the receiving portion; and a step of sealing the hole set on the partition wall membrane.

[0233] By adopting such a configuration, even in a liquid storage container having a differential pressure valve, the pressure in the liquid storage chamber can be reduced, and liquid can flow into the liquid storage chamber through the circular opening. That is, liquid can be easily stored in the used liquid storage container.

[0234] (18) In the method described above, it may be configured as follows: after the step of sealing the outer periphery of the circular opening with the outer surface of the truncated cone-shaped portion and before the step of allowing the liquid to flow into the liquid holding chamber, there is a step of sucking the liquid in the liquid holding chamber through the liquid supply port.

[0235] By adopting such a configuration, the pressure in the liquid storage chamber can be made lower than the pressure outside the housing before the liquid flows into the liquid storage chamber. As a result, the liquid can be efficiently flowed into the liquid storage chamber.

[0236] (19) The method of the above aspect may include a step of sealing the atmosphere opening with a peelable sealing film that prevents the liquid contained in the liquid storage chamber from flowing.

[0237] By setting it in this way, after filling with liquid, in the state before the liquid storage container starts to be used, the liquid flowing out from the part further toward the atmosphere opening side in the atmosphere introduction path can be prevented from flowing out to the outside without passing through the atmosphere opening.

[0238] (20) In the method of the above-mentioned manner, it can also be set as follows: the process of sealing the hole set on the partition wall film includes the process of sealing the hole possessed by the partition wall film through a second partition wall film, and the first partition wall film as the partition wall film before the hole is opened includes: a first layer, which is joined to the top end of the surrounding wall; and a second layer, which is composed of a material with a higher melting point than the material of the first layer, and the second partition wall film includes: a third layer, which is composed of a material with a lower melting point than the material of the second layer; and a fourth layer, which is composed of a material with a higher melting point than the material of the third layer, and the process of sealing the hole through the second partition wall film includes: a process of removing a part of the second layer of the first partition wall film until the first layer is exposed; and a process of welding the third layer of the second partition wall film to the first layer of the partition wall film in the part of the first partition wall film where the first layer is exposed.

[0239] If it is set in this way, the strength of the partition film can be ensured by the second layer of the first partition film with a high melting point and the fourth layer of the second partition film with a high melting point. On the other hand, since the third layer of the second partition film is fused with the first layer of the first partition film, the second partition film and the first partition film can be firmly bonded.

[0240] The present invention may also be implemented in various ways other than the liquid container and the method for manufacturing the liquid container. For example, it may be implemented in a method for containing liquid in a used liquid container, a liquid filling device, a method for controlling the liquid filling device, a computer program for implementing these methods, a non-transitory recording medium recording the computer program, and the like.

Claims

1. A liquid storage container, comprising a housing, wherein: The liquid storage container comprises: a liquid containing chamber, which is disposed in the housing and contains liquid; a liquid supply port, which supplies the liquid in the liquid holding chamber to the outside of the liquid holding container and is provided in the housing; a liquid supply path disposed in the housing and connecting the liquid supply port to the liquid holding chamber; An atmosphere opening, which is used to introduce atmosphere into the liquid containing chamber and is disposed in the box body; as well as an atmosphere introduction path, which is provided in the housing and connects the atmosphere opening to the liquid storage chamber, The liquid storage container includes one or more capture parts constituting a part of the atmosphere introduction path, the capture parts including: A first region including one or more columnar spaces, wherein the air introduced from the atmosphere opening flows into the columnar spaces; as well as a second region extending in a direction different from that of the first region and connected to the first region via an opening provided in a wall portion constituting a part of the liquid storage container, The second area includes an area defined by the wall portion, the surrounding wall and the partition wall membrane, the wall portion is provided with the opening, the surrounding wall protrudes from the wall portion and surrounds the opening, and the partition wall membrane is joined to the top end of the surrounding wall and separates the space surrounded by the surrounding wall from the outside of the liquid holding container.

2. The liquid storage container according to claim 1, wherein: have a differential pressure valve disposed in the liquid supply path, and When the pressure of the flow path portion between the differential pressure valve and the liquid supply port in the liquid supply path, i.e., the downstream pressure, is lower than the pressure of the flow path portion between the differential pressure valve and the liquid storage chamber in the liquid supply path, i.e., the upstream pressure, and the difference between the downstream pressure and the upstream pressure is greater than a predetermined value, the differential pressure valve opens the liquid supply path. The differential pressure valve blocks the liquid supply path when the difference between the downstream pressure and the upstream pressure is smaller than the predetermined value or when the downstream pressure is larger than the upstream pressure.

3. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The atmosphere introduction path is blocked by a vent membrane at a location closer to the atmosphere opening than the capturing portion, and the vent membrane is made of a material that allows air to flow but does not allow the liquid contained in the liquid storage chamber to flow.

4. The liquid storage container according to claim 3, wherein: The atmosphere introduction path includes a flow path portion between the capturing portion and the air-permeable membrane, which is located vertically above the capturing portion in the posture of the liquid storage container when the liquid is supplied from the liquid supply port to the outside.

5. The liquid storage container according to claim 3, wherein: The atmosphere introduction path includes a curved flow path portion between the capture portion and the air-permeable membrane, the curved flow path portion including a pair of flow path portions having a smaller cross-sectional area than the front and rear flow path portions and allowing air to flow in directions 180 degrees different from each other. The air introduction path does not include the curved flow path portion between the capturing portion and the liquid storage chamber.

6. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The atmosphere opening is sealed by a peelable sealing film that prevents the liquid contained in the liquid storage chamber from flowing.

7. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The columnar space is a cylindrical space, The opening is a round opening having a circular outer shape.

8. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The capturing portion includes a plurality of the columnar spaces.

9. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The capturing portion includes a plurality of the capturing portions.

10. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The height of the peripheral wall is higher than the height of other wall portions that protrude from the wall portion and are adjacent to the peripheral wall.

11. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The first area as the one or more columnar spaces includes: a first columnar space located on a side of the atmosphere opening relative to the second region in the atmosphere introduction path and connected to the second region via a first opening serving as the opening; and a second columnar space located on the side of the liquid storage chamber with respect to the second region in the atmosphere introduction path and connected to the second region via a second opening serving as the opening, The surrounding wall comprises: a first partial wall surrounding the first opening; and a second partial wall surrounding the second opening, A space enclosed by the second partial wall in the second region is larger than a space enclosed by the first partial wall.

12. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: In the wall portion, a predetermined distance exists between the outer periphery of the opening and the base of the surrounding wall.

13. The liquid storage container according to claim 12, wherein: The predetermined distance is greater than or equal to 0.6 mm.

14. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The partition wall film comprises: a first partition wall film which is joined to the top end of the peripheral wall and partitions the space surrounded by the peripheral wall from the outside of the liquid storage container and has a hole; as well as The second partition wall film seals the hole included in the first partition wall film.

15. The liquid storage container according to claim 14, wherein: The first partition film comprises: a first layer joined to a top end of the peripheral wall; and a second layer made of a material having a higher melting point than that of the first layer and in contact with the second partition wall film, The second partition film comprises: a third layer composed of a material having a lower melting point than the material of the second layer and in contact with the second layer; and a fourth layer composed of a material having a higher melting point than the material of the third layer, The third layer of the second partition wall film is fused to the first layer of the first partition wall film in a portion of the first partition wall film where the second layer is not provided.

16. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The atmosphere introduction path is separated by a breathable membrane at a position closer to the atmosphere opening than the capture portion. The breathable membrane is made of a material that allows air to flow but does not allow liquid contained in the liquid storage chamber to flow, and has holes through which the liquid contained in the liquid storage chamber can flow.

17. A method for manufacturing a liquid container, wherein: The liquid storage container comprises: Box; a liquid containing chamber, which is disposed in the housing and contains liquid; a liquid supply port, which supplies the liquid in the liquid holding chamber to the outside of the liquid holding container and is provided in the housing; a liquid supply path disposed in the housing and connecting the liquid supply port to the liquid holding chamber; a differential pressure valve disposed in the liquid supply path, and When the pressure of the flow path portion between the differential pressure valve and the liquid supply port in the liquid supply path, i.e., the downstream pressure, is lower than the pressure of the flow path portion between the differential pressure valve and the liquid storage chamber in the liquid supply path, i.e., the upstream pressure, and the difference between the downstream pressure and the upstream pressure is greater than a predetermined value, the differential pressure valve opens the liquid supply path. When the difference between the downstream pressure and the upstream pressure is smaller than the predetermined value, or the downstream pressure is larger than the upstream pressure, the differential pressure valve cuts off the liquid supply path; An atmosphere opening, which is used to introduce atmosphere into the liquid containing chamber and is disposed in the box body; as well as an atmosphere introduction path, which is provided in the housing and connects the atmosphere opening to the liquid storage chamber, The liquid storage container includes one or more receiving parts constituting a part of the atmosphere introduction path, the receiving parts including: a first region including one or more cylindrical spaces, and allowing the air introduced from the atmosphere opening to flow into the cylindrical spaces; and a second region extending in a direction different from that of the first region and connected to the first region via a circular opening having a circular outer shape and provided on a wall portion constituting a part of the liquid storage container, The second region includes an area defined by the wall portion, the surrounding wall, and the partition wall film, the wall portion being provided with the circular opening, the surrounding wall protruding from the wall portion and surrounding the circular opening, the partition wall film being joined to the top end of the surrounding wall and separating the space surrounded by the surrounding wall from the outside of the liquid storage container, The method comprises the following steps: The step of providing holes in the partition film; A step of inserting a nozzle having a truncated cone-shaped portion into the receiving portion through the hole and inserting the truncated cone-shaped portion into the circular opening, thereby sealing the outer periphery of the circular opening with the outer surface of the truncated cone-shaped portion; A step of delivering liquid from the nozzle and allowing the liquid to flow into the liquid holding chamber through the circular opening; The step of withdrawing the nozzle to the outside of the receiving portion; and A step of sealing the hole formed in the partition wall film.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that After the step of sealing the outer periphery of the circular opening with the outer surface of the truncated cone-shaped portion and before the step of allowing the liquid to flow into the liquid storage chamber, there is provided a step of sucking the liquid in the liquid storage chamber through the liquid supply port.

19. The method according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that The method includes the step of sealing the atmosphere opening with a peelable sealing film that prevents the liquid contained in the liquid storage chamber from flowing.

20. The method according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that The step of sealing the hole provided in the partition wall film comprises: a step of sealing the hole in the partition film with a second partition film, The first partition wall film as the partition wall film before the hole is formed includes: a first layer joined to a top end of the peripheral wall; and a second layer composed of a material having a higher melting point than the material of the first layer, The second partition film comprises: a third layer composed of a material having a lower melting point than the material of the second layer; and a fourth layer composed of a material having a higher melting point than the material of the third layer, The step of sealing the hole by the second partition wall film comprises: a step of removing a portion of the second layer of the first partition film until the first layer is exposed; and and fusing the third layer of the second partition wall film and the first layer of the partition wall film at a portion of the first partition wall film where the first layer is exposed.

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