Tank unit and liquid ejection device

Abstract

This invention provides a tank unit and a liquid ejection device that can reduce the possibility of liquid overflowing from the head. The tank unit includes: a storage section for storing liquid supplied from a receiving body; an inlet section for introducing liquid supplied from the receiving body into the storage section using a head difference; an atmosphere opening section for opening the storage section to the atmosphere; and an outlet section for discharging the liquid stored in the storage section. The inlet section is connected to the storage section and extends vertically within the storage section, having an open end located within the storage section. The storage section has a partition portion with a first protrusion and a second protrusion, the first protrusion being located opposite the open end in the vertical direction, and the second protrusion extending upward from the first protrusion, the length of the horizontal component of the first protrusion being longer than the length of the horizontal component of the open end.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates, for example, to a tank unit and a liquid ejection device. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a liquid ejection device comprising a tank unit for introducing liquid from a liquid receiving body and a head for ejecting liquid. The liquid stored in the tank unit is supplied to the head.

[0003] In such a liquid ejection device, there is a possibility that the liquid level inside the tank unit may rise due to tilting. In such a case, for example, when the liquid level inside the tank unit becomes higher than the head, there is a possibility that liquid may flow out from the head.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 5-92578 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The tank unit that solves the above-mentioned problem is a tank unit capable of introducing liquid supplied from a receiving body and directing the liquid toward a head capable of ejecting liquid. The tank unit comprises: a storage section for storing liquid supplied from the receiving body; an introduction section for introducing liquid supplied from the receiving body into the storage section using a head difference; an atmosphere opening section for opening the storage section to the atmosphere; and an outlet section for discharging the liquid stored in the storage section. The introduction section is connected to the storage section and extends vertically within the storage section, having an open end located within the storage section. The storage section has a partition portion consisting of a first protrusion and a second protrusion. The first protrusion is located at a position opposite the open end in the vertical direction, and the second protrusion extends upward from the first protrusion. The length of the horizontal component of the first protrusion is longer than the length of the horizontal component of the open end.

[0006] The liquid ejection device for solving the above-mentioned problem includes: the aforementioned tank unit; and a head that ejects liquid supplied from the tank unit. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a liquid dispensing device equipped with a tank unit.

[0008] Figure 2 This is the front view of the tank unit.

[0009] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Enlarged image.

[0010] Figure 4 From Figure 2 The state shown is a tilted front view of the tank unit.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a modification example of a tank unit.

[0012] Figure 6 From Figure 5 The diagram shows a tilted tank unit. Detailed Implementation

[0013] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a liquid ejection device having a tank unit will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The liquid ejection device is, for example, an inkjet printer that prints text, photographs, and other images by ejecting ink, an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper or cloth. In this specification, the description will be based on both vertical and horizontal directions; unless otherwise specified, the liquid ejection device will be assumed to be horizontally positioned.

[0014] like Figure 1 As shown, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a frame 12. The frame 12 is, for example, horizontally arranged.

[0015] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a head 13. The head 13 is housed in a frame 12. The head 13 is configured to eject liquid. The head 13 has a nozzle 14 and a nozzle surface 15. The nozzle 14 opens on the nozzle surface 15. The nozzle 14 ejects liquid. The head 13 performs printing on the medium 99 by ejecting liquid from the nozzle 14 onto the medium 99.

[0016] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a mounting portion 16. For example, the mounting portion 16 is housed within a frame 12. The mounting portion 16 is configured to accommodate a housing 17. The housing 17 holds the liquid. The housing 17 is, for example, an ink cartridge. By mounting the housing 17 onto the mounting portion 16, liquid can be supplied from the housing 17 to the head 13.

[0017] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a tank unit 18. The tank unit 18 is configured to receive liquid supplied from the receiver 17. The tank unit 18 is configured to discharge liquid toward the head 13.

[0018] The tank unit 18 includes a storage section 19 and an inlet section 20. The storage section 19 is configured to store liquid. The storage section 19 stores liquid supplied from the housing 17. Specifically, the storage section 19 stores liquid supplied from the housing 17 through the inlet section 20. The storage section 19 is open to the atmosphere. The storage section 19 is located below the housing 17.

[0019] The inlet section 20 is configured to introduce liquid into the storage section 19. The inlet section 20 introduces liquid supplied from the housing 17 using a head difference into the storage section 19. The inlet section 20 is mounted on the mounting section 16, for example, via the housing 17, thereby connecting to the housing 17. Thus, liquid can flow from the housing 17 to the inlet section 20.

[0020] The inlet portion 20 is connected to the storage portion 19. The inlet portion 20 extends both inside and outside the storage portion 19. For example, the inlet portion 20 extends in the vertical direction D1 outside the storage portion 19. For example, the inlet portion 20 extends in the vertical direction D1 inside the storage portion 19.

[0021] The inlet portion 20 has an open end 21. The open end 21 is the end of the inlet portion 20. The open end 21 is located inside the storage portion 19. The open end 21 is the downstream end of the inlet portion 20. Liquid is introduced into the storage portion 19 through the open end 21.

[0022] In the storage section 19, liquid is introduced up to the height of the opening end 21. Therefore, the position of the opening end 21 is the standard position P1 of the liquid level in the storage section 19. The standard position P1 is lower than the nozzle surface 15. As a result, there is a negative pressure inside the head 13. The standard position P1 is the position of the liquid level when the frame 12 is set horizontally and liquid is supplied to the storage section 19 as usual.

[0023] Utilizing the head difference between the receiving body 17 and the storage section 19, liquid is supplied from the receiving body 17 to the storage section 19. Since air in the storage section 19 enters the receiving body 17 through the inlet 20, liquid is introduced from the receiving body 17 into the storage section 19 through the inlet 20. When the liquid level in the storage section 19 reaches the opening end 21, the opening end 21 is blocked by liquid, thus stopping the introduction of liquid. The detailed structure of the tank unit 18 is described below.

[0024] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a supply channel 22. The supply channel 22 is a channel for supplying liquid from the tank unit 18 to the head 13. The supply channel 22 is connected to both the tank unit 18 and the head 13. More specifically, the supply channel 22 is connected to the storage section 19 and the head 13. The supply channel 22 may include, for example, a tube or a pipe. Valves, pumps, etc., may also be installed midway through the supply channel 22 in the liquid dispensing device 11.

[0025] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a detection unit 23. The detection unit 23 is configured to detect the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 relative to the horizontal. For example, the detection unit 23 is a gyroscope sensor. The detection unit 23 is mounted on the frame 12, for example. The detection unit 23 may also be mounted on the tank unit 18. The detection unit 23 detects the tilt angle of the tank unit 18, for example, by detecting the tilt angle of the frame 12. When the frame 12 is horizontal, the tank unit 18 is horizontal.

[0026] When the frame 12 is tilted, the positional relationship between the liquid level in the storage section 19 and the nozzle surface 15 may reverse. Specifically, when the frame 12 is tilted, the liquid level in the storage section 19 may become higher than the nozzle surface 15. When the liquid level in the storage section 19 becomes higher than the nozzle surface 15, liquid may flow out from the nozzle 14.

[0027] When the tank unit 18 is tilted, the liquid level in the storage section 19 may separate from the opening end 21. When the liquid level separates from the opening end 21, air in the storage section 19 will enter the receiving body 17 through the opening end 21, thereby allowing liquid to be introduced from the receiving body 17 into the storage section 19. That is, the liquid volume in the storage section 19 will increase compared to normal conditions. When the liquid volume in the storage section 19 increases, the liquid level in the storage section 19 will rise. When the liquid level in the storage section 19 rises, the positional relationship between the liquid level in the storage section 19 and the nozzle surface 15 may reverse.

[0028] If the tilting of the tank unit 18 causes a reversal in the positional relationship between the liquid level in the storage section 19 and the nozzle surface 15, it is necessary to lower the liquid level in the storage section 19 by, for example, discharging liquid from the head 13. Therefore, when the tilting of the tank unit 18 causes a reversal in the positional relationship between the liquid level in the storage section 19 and the nozzle surface 15, liquid may be wasted unnecessarily. Therefore, it is preferable that the liquid dispensing device 11 is used in a near-horizontal position. Furthermore, it is preferable that the liquid dispensing device 11 delivers liquid in a near-horizontal position.

[0029] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a notification unit 24. The notification unit 24 is configured to notify a user of information. The notification unit 24 is mounted on the housing 12. For example, the notification unit 24 may be a display. The notification unit 24 notifies the user of information, for example, by displaying a message. The notification unit 24 may be a speaker that notifies the user of information by emitting sound, or a lamp that notifies the user of information by emitting light.

[0030] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a control unit 25. The control unit 25 is configured to control the liquid dispensing device 11. For example, the control unit 25 controls the head 13, the notification unit 24, etc. The control unit 25 can be one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program. The control unit 25 can also be one or more dedicated hardware circuits, such as an integrated circuit for a specific purpose, that executes at least a portion of the various processes. The control unit 25 can also be a circuit that includes a combination of a processor and hardware circuitry. The processor includes a CPU and memories such as RAM and ROM. The memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. Memory, or computer-readable medium, includes all readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0031] For example, if the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle, the control unit 25 will notify the notification unit 24 that the tilt angle has exceeded the predetermined angle. The control unit 25 will compare the tilt angle detected by the detection unit 23 with a predetermined angle that serves as a threshold. The threshold is stored in the control unit 25. The threshold is, for example, 3 degrees. For example, when the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds 3 degrees, the positional relationship between the liquid level in the storage section 19 and the nozzle surface 15 may be reversed.

[0032] For example, if the tilt angle detected by the detection unit 23 exceeds a threshold, the control unit 25 will notify the notification unit 24 that the angle has exceeded a predetermined value. This allows the user to change the orientation of the liquid ejection device 11.

[0033] The control unit 25 can also send a notification to the notification unit 24 to request a reduction in the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 if the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle. In such a case, the control unit 25 can also, for example, send a message to the notification unit 24 to prompt the liquid ejection device 11 to approach a horizontal position.

[0034] The control unit 25 may, for example, prevent printing if the detection unit 23 detects that the tilt angle of the can unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle. The control unit 25 may also, for example, cause the notification unit 24 to notify an error if the detection unit 23 detects that the tilt angle of the can unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle. In such cases, the control unit 25 will not start printing even if it receives a printing instruction from the user.

[0035] The control unit 25 can compare the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 with a threshold value obtained when the power supply to the liquid dispensing device 11 is turned on, and can also compare the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 with the threshold value continuously during the operation of the liquid dispensing device 11. As a result, the user can use the liquid dispensing device 11 when it is set in a horizontal or near-horizontal position.

[0036] Next, tank unit 18 will be described in detail.

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown, the inlet portion 20 is located on the long side of the storage portion 19, closer to one end of the storage portion 19 than the reference line A1. The reference line A1 is an imaginary line passing through the center of the storage portion 19 on its long side. When the tank unit 18 is horizontal, the storage portion 19 is, for example, longer in the horizontal direction D2. Therefore, the inlet portion 20 is located on the horizontal direction D2, closer to one end of the storage portion 19 than the center of the storage portion 19. When the tank unit 18 is horizontal, the reference line A1 extends in the vertical direction D1.

[0038] The inlet section 20 includes a first inlet section 31 and a second inlet section 32.

[0039] The first inlet portion 31 extends outside the storage portion 19. The first inlet portion 31 extends, for example, in the vertical direction D1. The first inlet portion 31 is, for example, a tube inserted into the housing 17. The first inlet portion 31 is, for example, inserted into the housing 17 mounted on the mounting portion 16. The first inlet portion 31 is not limited to being directly connected to the housing 17; it can also be indirectly connected to the housing 17 via other components.

[0040] The first inlet portion 31 has a first inlet path 33. The first inlet path 33 is a flow channel for the flow of liquid. The first inlet path 33 extends within the first inlet portion 31. The first inlet path 33 extends through the inside and outside of the storage portion 19.

[0041] The second inlet portion 32 extends within the storage portion 19. The second inlet portion 32 extends, for example, in the vertical direction D1. The second inlet portion 32 extends, for example, in the horizontal direction D2. An opening end 21 is located at the end of the second inlet portion 32. For example, the second inlet portion 32 is composed of a plurality of ribs extending from the storage portion 19.

[0042] For example, the second inlet portion 32 includes a horizontal portion 34 and a vertical portion 35. The horizontal portion 34 is the portion of the second inlet portion 32 that extends in the horizontal direction D2. For example, the horizontal portion 34 is formed by ribs extending in the horizontal direction D2. The first inlet path 33 opens into the horizontal portion 34. The horizontal portion 34 extends, for example, from the opening of the first inlet path 33 in a manner close to the reference line A1. The vertical portion 35 is the portion of the second inlet portion 32 that extends in the vertical direction D1. The vertical portion 35 is formed by ribs extending in the vertical direction D1. The opening end 21 is located at the end of the vertical portion 35. The horizontal portion 34 and the vertical portion 35 are connected to each other.

[0043] The second inlet portion 32 extends in the horizontal direction D2 and in the vertical direction D1 via the horizontal portion 34 and the vertical portion 35. Therefore, the second inlet portion 32 extends while bending. The second inlet portion 32 may also be configured to extend only in the vertical direction D1.

[0044] The second inlet portion 32 has a second inlet path 36. The second inlet path 36 is a flow channel for liquid flow. The second inlet path 36 extends within the storage portion 19. The second inlet path 36 communicates with the first inlet path 33. The second inlet path 36 is defined by the second inlet portion 32. The second inlet path 36 is defined by a horizontal portion 34 and a vertical portion 35. Therefore, the second inlet path 36 extends in the horizontal direction D2 and in the vertical direction D1. The second inlet path 36 opens at the opening end 21.

[0045] The storage section 19 has a storage chamber 41. The storage chamber 41 is a space within the storage section 19. The storage chamber 41 is defined, for example, by attaching a membrane to the shell constituting the storage section 19. The storage chamber 41 may also be defined by attaching a plate-like member made of the same material as the shell to the shell constituting the storage section 19. For example, the storage chamber 41 includes an inlet chamber 42, a first storage chamber 43, and a second storage chamber 44.

[0046] The inlet chamber 42 is a space communicating with the second inlet path 36. The inlet chamber 42 is defined by the second inlet section 32 and the partition section 51 described later. The liquid that has passed through the inlet section 20 is stored in the inlet chamber 42.

[0047] The first storage chamber 43 is a space that communicates with the inlet chamber 42. The first storage chamber 43 stores the liquid that has passed through the inlet chamber 42.

[0048] The second storage chamber 44 is a space that communicates with the first storage chamber 43. The liquid that has passed through the first storage chamber 43 is stored in the second storage chamber 44.

[0049] The inlet chamber 42, the first storage chamber 43, and the second storage chamber 44 are arranged, for example, along the long side of the storage section 19. Figure 2 In this configuration, the second storage chamber 44, the first storage chamber 43, and the inlet chamber 42 are arranged in this order on the horizontal direction D2. When the tank unit 18 is horizontal, the liquid level in the inlet chamber 42, the liquid level in the first storage chamber 43, and the liquid level in the second storage chamber 44 are the same.

[0050] The storage section 19 has a connection path 45. The connection path 45 is a flow channel communicating with the first storage chamber 43 and the second storage chamber 44. For example, the connection path 45 communicates with the lower part of the first storage chamber 43. For example, the connection path 45 communicates with the lower part of the second storage chamber 44. Liquid stored in the first storage chamber 43 is introduced into the second storage chamber 44 through the connection path 45.

[0051] The storage unit 19 may also have a one-way valve located in the connection path 45. The one-way valve, for example, allows liquid to flow from the first storage chamber 43 toward the second storage chamber 44. The one-way valve, for example, restricts the flow of liquid from the second storage chamber 44 toward the first storage chamber 43.

[0052] Storage section 19 has an atmospheric opening path 46. The atmospheric opening path 46 is a flow channel that opens storage chamber 41 to the atmosphere. Air flows in the atmospheric opening path 46. The atmospheric opening path 46 includes, for example, an inlet opening path 47, a first opening path 48, and a second opening path 49.

[0053] The inlet opening path 47 is a flow channel for opening the inlet chamber 42 to the atmosphere. The inlet opening path 47 communicates with the inlet chamber 42. The inlet opening path 47 also communicates with the first storage chamber 43. Therefore, the inlet opening path 47 connects the inlet chamber 42 and the first storage chamber 43. The inlet opening path 47 communicates, for example, with the upper part of the inlet chamber 42. The inlet opening path 47 communicates, for example, with the upper part of the first storage chamber 43. The inlet opening path 47 extends to bypass the second inlet path 36. In particular, the inlet opening path 47 extends to surround the horizontal portion 34. Thus, the space within the storage section 19 is effectively utilized.

[0054] The first open path 48 is a flow channel for opening the first storage chamber 43 to the atmosphere. The first open path 48 communicates with the first storage chamber 43. The first open path 48 communicates, for example, with the upper part of the first storage chamber 43. The first open path 48 communicates with the outside of the storage section 19. That is, the first open path 48 communicates with the atmosphere. The inlet chamber 42 and the first storage chamber 43 are opened to the atmosphere through the first open path 48.

[0055] The second open path 49 is a flow channel for opening the second storage chamber 44 to the atmosphere. The second open path 49 communicates with the second storage chamber 44. The second open path 49 communicates, for example, with the upper part of the second storage chamber 44. The second open path 49 communicates with the outside of the storage section 19. That is, the second open path 49 communicates with the atmosphere. The second storage chamber 44 is opened to the atmosphere through the second open path 49.

[0056] The storage unit 19 may also have a moisture-permeable membrane between the atmospheric open path 46 and the storage chamber 41. For example, the storage unit 19 may also have moisture-permeable membranes between the first open path 48 and the first storage chamber 43, and between the second open path 49 and the second storage chamber 44. A moisture-permeable membrane is a membrane through which gas can pass but not through which liquid can pass. The possibility of liquid flowing into the atmospheric open path 46 can be reduced by using a moisture-permeable membrane.

[0057] The storage section 19 includes a partition section 51. The partition section 51 is configured to prevent the introduction of liquid when the tank unit 18 is tilted. The partition section 51 prevents the liquid from being introduced so that the positional relationship between the liquid surface and the nozzle surface 15 within the storage section 19 does not reverse. For example, the partition section 51 is configured to prevent the introduction of liquid when the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds 8 degrees. More specifically, the partition section 51 prevents the introduction of liquid when the tank unit 18 is tilted such that one end of the storage section 19 is displaced upwards, i.e., the inlet section 20 is displaced upwards.

[0058] like Figure 3 As shown, the partition portion 51 has a first protrusion 52 and a second protrusion 53. The first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 53 are, for example, ribs. The first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 53 extend, for example, from the housing constituting the storage portion 19.

[0059] The first protrusion 52 is located below the second inlet portion 32. The first protrusion 52 is located below the opening end 21. The first protrusion 52 is located opposite the opening end 21 in the vertical direction D1. Therefore, the first protrusion 52 receives the liquid introduced from the inlet portion 20.

[0060] The first protrusion 52 extends horizontally in the direction D2 as a whole. For example, when viewed from the vertical direction D1, the first protrusion 52 overlaps with the horizontal portion 34 and the vertical portion 35. That is, the first protrusion 52 is opposite to the horizontal portion 34 and the vertical portion 35 in the vertical direction D1. The first protrusion 52 extends horizontally in the direction D2, for example, from a position opposite to the opening end 21, separating away from the reference line A1. The first protrusion 52 extends below the horizontal portion 34, thereby effectively utilizing the space within the storage section 19.

[0061] The first protrusion 52 has a first end portion 54 and a second end portion 55. The first end portion 54 and the second end portion 55 are respectively the ends of the first protrusion 52. The first end portion 54 is the end of the first protrusion 52 that is farther from the midpoint of the storage portion 19, i.e., the reference line A1, in the horizontal direction D2. The second end portion 55 is the end of the first protrusion 52 that is closer to the midpoint of the storage portion 19, i.e., the reference line A1, in the horizontal direction D2. Therefore, in the horizontal direction D2, the distance between the reference line A1 and the first end portion 54 is greater than the distance between the reference line A1 and the second end portion 55. For example, when viewed from the vertical direction D1, the first end portion 54 overlaps with the horizontal portion 34. For example, when viewed from the vertical direction D1, the second end portion 55 overlaps with the vertical portion 35.

[0062] The first protrusion 52 slopes downward from the second end 55 toward the first end 54. Therefore, the liquid received by the first protrusion 52 flows from the second end 55 toward the first end 54 onto the first protrusion 52. Thus, the liquid received by the first protrusion 52 is introduced from the inlet chamber 42 into the first storage chamber 43.

[0063] The length of the horizontal component in the first protrusion 52 is longer than the length of the horizontal component in the opening end 21. The length of the horizontal component in the opening end 21 is a first length L1. The first length L1 is, for example, the dimension of the vertical portion 35 in the horizontal direction D2. The distance between the first end 54 in the horizontal direction D2 and the opening end 21 is a first distance L2. In this example, the length of the horizontal component in the first protrusion 52 is the sum of the first length L1 and the first distance L2. Therefore, in this example, the length of the horizontal component in the first protrusion 52 is longer than the length of the horizontal component in the opening end 21 by a first distance L2.

[0064] The distance between the opening end 21 and the first protrusion 52 in the vertical direction D1 is less than the length of the horizontal component of the opening end 21. This distance is a second distance L3. The second distance L3 can be the distance between the portion of the first protrusion 52 closest to the opening end 21 in the vertical direction D1 and the opening end 21 itself. Alternatively, the second distance L3 can be the distance between the portion of the first protrusion 52 furthest from the opening end 21 in the vertical direction D1 and the opening end 21 itself. The second distance L3 is less than the first length L1.

[0065] The second protrusion 53 extends upward from the first protrusion 52. The second protrusion 53 extends, for example, from the end of the first protrusion 52. The second protrusion 53 extends, for example, from the second end 55. The end of the second protrusion 53 is connected to the second end 55. The second protrusion 53 extends in the vertical direction D1. The second protrusion 53 extends in a curved manner from the first protrusion 52.

[0066] The second protrusion 53 is connected, for example, to the second inlet portion 32. The second protrusion 53 is connected, for example, to the vertical portion 35. The second protrusion 53 extends, for example, by extending the vertical portion 35. The second protrusion 53 is connected to the opening end 21. The end of the second protrusion 53 is connected to the opening end 21. The inlet chamber 42 and the first storage chamber 43 are divided by the first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 53.

[0067] The second protrusion 53 has a base end portion 56 and a top end portion 57. The base end portion 56 and the top end portion 57 are the ends of the second protrusion 53, respectively. The base end portion 56 is connected to the second end portion 55, for example. The top end portion 57 is connected to the opening end 21, for example. The base end portion 56 is located below the top end portion 57.

[0068] The second protrusion 53 may, for example, not be connected to the opening end 21. In such a case, it is preferable that the second protrusion 53 extends from the first protrusion 52 such that the top end 57 is located above the opening end 21.

[0069] In the horizontal direction D2, the distance between the first end 54 and the opening end 21 is greater than the distance between the second end 55 and the opening end 21. That is, the first distance L2 is greater than the distance between the second end 55 and the opening end 21. In this example, since the second end 55 overlaps with the opening end 21 when viewed from the vertical direction D1, the distance between the second end 55 and the opening end 21 in the horizontal direction D2 is 0.

[0070] like Figure 2 As shown, the tank unit 18 includes an atmospheric opening 61. The atmospheric opening 61 is configured to allow the storage section 19 to be open to the atmosphere. That is, the atmospheric opening 61 allows the storage chamber 41 to be open to the atmosphere. The atmospheric opening 61 includes, for example, a first atmospheric opening 62 and a second atmospheric opening 63.

[0071] A first atmospheric opening 62 extends from the storage section 19. The first atmospheric opening 62 is, for example, a pipe. A first opening path 48 opens at the first atmospheric opening 62. Therefore, the first atmospheric opening 62 opens the inlet chamber 42 and the first storage chamber 43 to the atmosphere.

[0072] The second atmospheric opening 63 extends from the storage section 19. The second atmospheric opening 63 is, for example, a pipe. The second opening path 49 opens at the second atmospheric opening 63. Therefore, the second atmospheric opening 63 opens the second storage chamber 44 to the atmosphere.

[0073] The atmospheric opening section 61 may also include, for example, a third atmospheric opening section that directly opens the inlet chamber 42 to the atmosphere. The atmospheric opening section 61 may also be connected to a connecting pipe to which a pump is attached. In such a case, the pump can pressurize or depressurize the first storage chamber 43 and the second storage chamber 44 respectively.

[0074] The tank unit 18 includes a discharge section 64. The discharge section 64 is configured to discharge liquid stored in the storage section 19. The discharge section 64 discharges liquid stored in the storage chamber 41.

[0075] The outlet 64 extends from the storage section 19. The outlet 64 is, for example, a pipe. The outlet 64 communicates, for example, with the second storage chamber 44. The outlet 64 communicates, for example, with the lower part of the second storage chamber 44. A supply channel 22 is connected to the outlet 64. The liquid stored in the second storage chamber 44 is supplied to the head 13 through the outlet 64 and the supply channel 22.

[0076] The tank unit 18 may also include a connecting portion 65. The connecting portion 65 extends from the storage section 19. The connecting portion 65 is, for example, a pipe. The connecting portion 65 communicates with the first storage chamber 43. The connecting portion 65 communicates, for example, with the lower part of the first storage chamber 43. For example, a flow channel extending from the head 13 is connected to the connecting portion 65. In this case, liquid can be introduced from the first storage chamber 43 to the head 13 through the connecting portion 65. Furthermore, by allowing liquid to return from the head 13 to the storage section 19 through the connecting portion 65, liquid can circulate between the head 13 and the storage section 19.

[0077] The tank unit 18 may also include a remaining quantity sensor 66. The remaining quantity sensor 66 is a sensor that detects the remaining amount of liquid stored in the storage section 19. For example, the remaining quantity sensor 66 detects the remaining quantity by detecting the liquid level within the storage section 19. The remaining quantity sensor 66 is located, for example, in the first storage chamber 43. The control unit 25 may also, for example, notify the notification unit 24 to urge the replacement of the receiving container 17 if it determines, based on the detection result of the remaining quantity sensor 66, that the remaining liquid has become very low.

[0078] Next, the tilting of the tank unit 18 will be explained. The tank unit 18 is prone to tilting, for example, during the delivery of liquid by the liquid dispensing device 11.

[0079] like Figure 4As shown, when the tank unit 18 is tilted such that the inlet 20 is displaced upwards, i.e., one end of the storage section 19 is positioned higher than the other end relative to the reference line A1, liquid accumulates in the partition section 51. Specifically, the liquid stored in the inlet chamber 42 and the liquid introduced from the inlet 20 are both contained in the partition section 51. The opening end 21 is blocked by the liquid accumulated in the partition section 51. That is, the introduction of liquid is blocked by the liquid accumulated in the partition section 51. This reduces the possibility of liquid being introduced into the storage section 19 beyond what is needed. Therefore, it reduces the possibility of the liquid level in the storage chamber 41 rising.

[0080] When the tank unit 18 is tilted such that the inlet section 20 is displaced downwards, i.e., one end of the storage section 19 is positioned lower than the other end relative to the reference line A1, liquid flows from the first storage chamber 43 into the inlet chamber 42. In this case, since the opening end 21 does not separate from the liquid surface, the opening end 21 remains blocked by liquid. Therefore, in such a case, there is no possibility of more liquid being introduced into the storage section 19 than necessary.

[0081] The tilt angle of the tank unit 18, which is blocked by the partition 51, is determined by the shape and position of the first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 53. In this example, the partition 51 blocks the introduction of liquid when the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds 8 degrees. When the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 is greater than 0 degrees and less than 8 degrees, the partition 51 reduces the liquid introduction speed. This is because, due to the tilt of the tank unit 18, the first protrusion 52 tilts so that the first end 54 is displaced upward relative to the second end 55. As a result, it becomes difficult for the liquid to flow on the first protrusion 52. Therefore, it is difficult for the liquid level in the storage chamber 41 to rise. When the first end 54 is located above the opening end 21 due to the tilt of the tank unit 18, the liquid no longer flows from the introduction chamber 42 to the first storage chamber 43. In fact, due to the surface tension of the liquid, the introduction of liquid is blocked even when the first end 54 is located below the opening end 21.

[0082] The greater the length of the horizontal component of the first protrusion 52, for example, the greater the sum of the first length L1 and the first distance L2, the more difficult it is for the liquid to flow from the inlet chamber 42 to the first storage chamber 43 when the tank unit 18 is tilted. The greater the length of the horizontal component of the first protrusion 52, the greater the displacement of the first end 54 relative to the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 when it is tilted. Therefore, the greater the length of the horizontal component of the first protrusion 52, the more quickly the liquid introduction is interrupted when the tank unit 18 is tilted. Furthermore, the greater the first distance L2 compared to the first length L1, the more quickly the liquid introduction is interrupted when the tank unit 18 is tilted.

[0083] The smaller the second distance L3, that is, the smaller the distance between the opening end 21 and the first protrusion 52 in the vertical direction D1, the more difficult it is for the liquid introduced from the inlet 20 to pass between the opening end 21 and the first protrusion 52 when the tank unit 18 is tilted. In other words, the smaller the second distance L3, the more difficult it is for air to flow from the storage section 19 to the receiving body 17 when the tank unit 18 is tilted. Therefore, the smaller the second distance L3, the more quickly the introduction of liquid is blocked when the tank unit 18 is tilted.

[0084] Next, the function and effects of the above-described implementation methods will be explained.

[0085] (1) The storage section 19 has a partition section 51 including a first protrusion 52 and a second protrusion 53. The first protrusion 52 is located opposite the opening end 21 in the vertical direction D1, and the second protrusion 53 extends upward from the first protrusion 52. The length of the horizontal component in the first protrusion 52 is longer than the length of the horizontal component in the opening end 21.

[0086] According to the above structure, when the tank unit 18 is tilted, liquid volume exists in the partition 51. The liquid accumulated in the partition 51 blocks the opening end 21. Therefore, it is possible to prevent liquid from being introduced from the receiving body 17 into the storage section 19. That is, the possibility of the liquid level rising in the storage section 19 can be reduced. Therefore, the possibility of liquid flowing out from the head 13 can be reduced.

[0087] (2) The distance between the opening end 21 on the vertical direction D1 and the first protrusion 52 is less than the length of the horizontal component in the opening end 21.

[0088] According to the above structure, compared to the case where the distance between the opening end 21 and the first protrusion 52 in the vertical direction D1 is greater than the length of the horizontal component in the opening end 21, liquid is more likely to accumulate in the partition portion 51 when the tank unit 18 is tilted. Therefore, when the tank unit 18 is tilted, the opening end 21 will be blocked by the liquid accumulated in the partition portion 51 at an earlier stage. Therefore, when the tank unit 18 is tilted, the introduction of liquid from the receiving body 17 into the storage portion 19 can be suppressed at an earlier stage.

[0089] (3) The inlet portion 20 is located in the horizontal direction D2, closer to one end of the storage portion 19 than the middle position of the storage portion 19. The first protrusion 52 has a first end portion 54 and a second end portion 55. The second protrusion 53 extends from the second end portion 55.

[0090] According to the above structure, when the tank unit 18 is tilted with the inlet portion 20 displaced upwards, liquid tends to accumulate in the partition portion 51. Therefore, when the tank unit 18 is tilted with the inlet portion 20 displaced upwards, the possibility of the liquid level in the storage portion 19 rising can be reduced.

[0091] (4) In the horizontal direction D2, the distance between the first end 54 and the opening end 21 is greater than the distance between the second end 55 and the opening end 21.

[0092] According to the above structure, compared to the case where the distance between the first end 54 and the opening end 21 in the horizontal direction D2 is smaller than the distance between the second end 55 and the opening end 21, when the tank unit 18 is tilted with the inlet portion 20 displaced upwards, liquid is more likely to accumulate in the partition portion 51. Therefore, when the tank unit 18 is tilted with the inlet portion 20 displaced upwards, the possibility of the liquid level in the storage portion 19 rising can be reduced.

[0093] (5) The second protrusion 53 is connected to the open end 21.

[0094] According to the above structure, when the tank unit 18 is tilted with the inlet portion 20 displacing upwards, liquid tends to accumulate in the partition portion 51. Therefore, when the tank unit 18 is tilted with the inlet portion 20 displacing upwards, the possibility of the liquid level in the storage portion 19 rising can be reduced.

[0095] (6) The inlet portion 20 has a horizontal portion 34 extending in the horizontal direction D2 and a vertical portion 35 extending in the vertical direction D1.

[0096] According to the above structure, since the inlet portion 20 has a horizontal portion 34, the first protrusion 52 can be arranged longer in the horizontal direction D2 within the storage portion 19. Therefore, when the tank unit 18 is tilted, the opening end 21 will be blocked by the liquid accumulated in the partition portion 51 at an earlier stage. Therefore, when the tank unit 18 is tilted, the introduction of liquid from the receiving body 17 into the storage portion 19 can be suppressed at an earlier stage.

[0097] (7) The control unit 25 prohibits printing when the tilt angle of the can unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle.

[0098] When the tank unit 18 is tilted, there is a possibility that the liquid level in the storage section 19 may rise, causing the liquid to not be properly discharged from the storage section 19 to the head 13. According to the above structure, by prohibiting printing when the liquid is not properly discharged from the storage section 19 to the head 13, the possibility of unnecessary liquid consumption can be reduced.

[0099] (8) When the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle, the control unit 25 causes the notification unit 24 to notify the tank unit 18 of a request to reduce the tilt angle.

[0100] Based on the above structure, the tilt angle of the buffer tank unit 18 can be requested from the user. Therefore, the liquid dispensing device 11 can operate in a suitable environment.

[0101] This embodiment can be modified and implemented as follows. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to implement them within the scope of technical inconsistency.

[0102] ·like Figure 5 As shown, the second protrusion 53 may not be connected to the opening end 21; for example, it may extend upward from the first protrusion 52 along the guide portion 20. The top end 57 is located above the opening end 21. In this variation, the distance between the second end 55 and the opening end 21 in the horizontal direction D2 is not 0, but a third distance L4. In this variation, the distance between the reference line A1 and the second end 55 in the horizontal direction D2 is smaller than the distance between the reference line A1 and the opening end 21 in the horizontal direction D2. For example, the distance between the first end 54 and the opening end 21 in the horizontal direction D2 is greater than the third distance L4.

[0103] like Figure 6As shown, when the tank unit 18 is tilted with the inlet section 20 displaced upwards, liquid accumulates in the partition section 51. The opening end 21 is blocked by the liquid accumulated in the partition section 51. Therefore, when the tank unit 18 is tilted, the introduction of liquid is interrupted. This reduces the possibility of liquid being introduced into the storage section 19 beyond what is needed.

[0104] The liquid ejected by head 13 is not limited to ink, but can also be a liquid formed by dispersing or mixing functional material particles in a liquid. For example, head 13 can also eject a liquid containing materials such as electrode materials or pixel materials used in the manufacture of liquid crystal displays, electroluminescent displays, and surface-emitting displays through dispersion or dissolution.

[0105] The following text describes the technical concepts and effects that can be grasped from the above-described embodiments and variations.

[0106] (A) A tank unit capable of introducing liquid supplied from a receiving body and discharging the liquid toward a head capable of ejecting liquid, the tank unit comprising: a storage section for storing liquid supplied from the receiving body; an introduction section for introducing liquid supplied from the receiving body into the storage section using a head difference; an atmosphere opening section for opening the storage section to the atmosphere; and a discharge section for discharging liquid stored in the storage section, the introduction section being connected to the storage section and extending vertically within the storage section, and having an opening end located within the storage section, the storage section having a partition section including a first protrusion and a second protrusion, the first protrusion being located at a position opposite the opening end in the vertical direction, the second protrusion extending upward from the first protrusion, the length of the horizontal component of the first protrusion being longer than the length of the horizontal component of the opening end.

[0107] According to the above structure, when the tank unit is tilted, liquid will accumulate in the partition. The open end is blocked by the liquid accumulated in the partition. This prevents liquid from being introduced from the receiving body into the storage section. That is, it reduces the possibility of the liquid level rising in the storage section. Therefore, it reduces the possibility of liquid overflowing from the head.

[0108] (B) In the above-mentioned tank unit, the distance between the opening end in the vertical direction and the first protrusion may also be less than the length of the horizontal component in the opening end.

[0109] According to the above structure, if the tank unit is tilted, the open end can be blocked by the liquid accumulated in the partition at an earlier stage. Therefore, if the tank unit is tilted, the introduction of liquid from the receiving body into the storage section can be suppressed at an earlier stage.

[0110] (C) In the above-mentioned tank unit, the inlet portion may be located in the horizontal direction at one end of the storage portion, closer to the middle position of the storage portion than the middle position of the storage portion. The first protrusion has a first end and a second end. The first end is the end of the two ends of the first protrusion that is farther from the middle position in the horizontal direction. The second end is the end of the two ends of the first protrusion that is closer to the middle position in the horizontal direction. The second protrusion extends from the second end.

[0111] According to the above structure, when the tank unit is tilted with the inlet portion moved upwards, liquid tends to accumulate in the partition portion. Therefore, when the tank unit is tilted with the inlet portion moved upwards, the possibility of the liquid level rising in the storage section can be reduced.

[0112] (D) In ​​the above-mentioned tank unit, the distance between the first end and the opening end in the horizontal direction may also be greater than the distance between the second end and the opening end.

[0113] According to the above structure, when the tank unit is tilted with the inlet portion moved upwards, liquid tends to accumulate in the partition portion. Therefore, when the tank unit is tilted with the inlet portion moved upwards, the possibility of the liquid level rising in the storage section can be reduced.

[0114] (E) In the above-mentioned tank unit, the second protrusion may also be connected to the opening end.

[0115] According to the above structure, when the tank unit is tilted with the inlet portion moved upwards, liquid tends to accumulate in the partition portion. Therefore, when the tank unit is tilted with the inlet portion moved upwards, the possibility of the liquid level rising in the storage section can be reduced.

[0116] (F) In the above-mentioned tank unit, the inlet may also have a horizontal portion extending in the horizontal direction and a vertical portion extending in the vertical direction.

[0117] According to the above structure, since the inlet portion has a horizontal section, the first protrusion can be arranged to be longer in the horizontal direction within the storage section. Therefore, if the tank unit is tilted, the opening end will be blocked by liquid accumulated in the partition portion at an earlier stage. Thus, even if the tank unit is tilted, the introduction of liquid from the receiving body into the storage section can be suppressed at an earlier stage.

[0118] (G) The liquid ejection device comprises: the aforementioned tank unit; and a head that ejects liquid supplied from the tank unit.

[0119] Based on the above structure, the same effect as the tank unit described above can be obtained.

[0120] (H) The above-described liquid ejection device may also include: a detection unit that detects the tilt angle of the tank unit relative to the horizontal; and a control unit that prohibits printing when the tilt angle of the tank unit exceeds a predetermined angle.

[0121] When the tank unit is tilted, there is a possibility that the liquid level in the storage section may rise, causing the liquid to not be properly discharged from the storage section to the head. Based on the above structure, by prohibiting printing when the liquid is not properly discharged from the storage section to the head, the possibility of unnecessary liquid consumption can be reduced.

[0122] (I) The above-mentioned liquid ejection device may also include a notification unit that notifies the user of information. The control unit may also notify the user of a request to reduce the tilt angle of the tank unit when the tilt angle of the tank unit exceeds a predetermined angle.

[0123] Based on the above structure, the tilt angle of the tank unit can be adjusted by requesting the user. Therefore, the liquid dispensing device can operate in a suitable environment.

[0124] Symbol Explanation

[0125] 11…Liquid ejection device; 12…Frame; 13…Head; 14…Nozzle; 15…Nozzle face; 16…Mounting part; 17…Receiving body; 18…Tank unit; 19…Storage part; 20…Inlet part; 21…Open end; 22…Supply channel; 23…Detection part; 24…Notification part; 25…Control part; 31…First inlet part; 32…Second inlet part; 33…First inlet path; 34…Horizontal part; 35…Vertical part; 36…Second inlet path; 41…Storage chamber; 42…Inlet chamber; 43…First storage chamber; 44…Second storage chamber; 45…Connection path; 46…Atmospheric opening path ; 47…Import Open Path; 48…First Open Path; 49…Second Open Path; 51…Partition; 52…First Protrusion; 53…Second Protrusion; 54…First End; 55…Second End; 56…Base End; 57…Top End; 61…Atmospheric Opening; 62…First Atmospheric Opening; 63…Second Atmospheric Opening; 64…Output; 65…Connection; 66…Remaining Amount Sensor; 99…Medium; A1…Baseline; D1…Vertical Direction; D2…Horizontal Direction; L1…First Length; L2…First Distance; L3…Second Distance; L4…Third Distance; P1…Standard Position.

Claims

1. A tank unit, characterized in that, It can import liquid supplied from the reservoir and direct the liquid towards the nozzle that can eject the liquid. The tank unit includes: A storage section for storing liquid supplied from the housing; An inlet section introduces liquid supplied from the housing using a head difference into the storage section; An atmospheric opening section that allows the storage section to be opened to the atmosphere; The outlet section discharges the liquid stored in the storage section. The inlet portion is connected to the storage portion and extends vertically within the storage portion, and has an open end located within the storage portion. The storage section has a partition section that, when the tank unit is tilted, prevents the introduction of liquid through liquid storage. The partition portion has a first protrusion and a second protrusion, the first protrusion being located opposite the opening end in the vertical direction, and the second protrusion extending upward from the first protrusion. The length of the horizontal component in the first protrusion is longer than the length of the horizontal component in the opening end.

2. The tank unit as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The distance between the vertical opening end and the first protrusion is less than the length of the horizontal component in the opening end.

3. The tank unit as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inlet portion is located horizontally at one end of the storage portion, closer to the center of the storage portion. The first protrusion has a first end and a second end. The first end is the end that is farther from the middle position in the horizontal direction among the two ends of the first protrusion. The second end is the end of the first protrusion that is closer to the middle position in the horizontal direction. The second protrusion extends from the second end.

4. The tank unit as described in claim 3, characterized in that, In the horizontal direction, the distance between the first end and the opening end is greater than the distance between the second end and the opening end.

5. The tank unit as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The second protrusion is connected to the opening end.

6. The tank unit as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The inlet portion has a horizontal portion extending in the horizontal direction and a vertical portion extending in the vertical direction.

7. A liquid ejection device, characterized in that, have: The tank unit as described in claim 1; The head sprays out the liquid supplied from the tank unit.

8. The liquid ejection device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, have: The detection unit detects the tilt angle of the tank unit relative to the horizontal. Control Department The control unit prohibits printing when the tilt angle of the can unit exceeds a predetermined angle.

9. The liquid ejection device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, It has a notification unit that notifies the user of information. When the tilt angle of the tank unit exceeds a predetermined angle, the control unit causes the notification unit to notify a request to reduce the tilt angle of the tank unit.

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