Liquid discharge container, recording apparatus

Abstract

This invention relates to a drain collection body and a recording device. The drain collection body suppresses the flow of drained liquid. It is configured to be detachably attached to a device having a drain section for discharging drained liquid, and is capable of collecting drained liquid discharged from the drain section. The drain collection body includes: a housing for collecting the drained liquid; a connecting portion disposed on a first surface of the housing and connected to the drain section; and a cover portion movable to a closed state covering the connecting portion and an open state opening the connecting portion. The cover portion can be in the open state when the housing is installed in the device, and in the closed state when removed from the device.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of patent application filed on May 25, 2022, with application number 202210576871.2 and entitled "Drainage Collection Body and Recording Device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a drain collection body and a recording device. Background Technology

[0003] As shown in Patent Document 1, a waste ink container has been known to be detachable from a printer equipped with a waste ink discharge section, and in this installed state, it contains waste ink discharged from the discharge section. This waste ink container includes a connection port (opening) connected to the discharge section and a handle for the user to hold when assembling or disassembling the waste ink container.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-269206

[0005] When such waste ink containers are being removed from the discharge section while the user is holding the handle, the opening may sometimes be facing downwards. However, regardless of whether there is a handle or not, if the container is held with the opening facing downwards, there is a technical problem that the waste ink inside the container may flow out of the opening due to gravity. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The drain collection body is configured to be detachably attached to a device having a drain section for discharging drain fluid, and is capable of collecting drain fluid discharged from the drain section. The drain collection body includes: a housing for collecting drain fluid; a connecting portion disposed on a first surface of the housing and connected to the drain section; and a cover portion that can be displaced to a closed state covering the connecting portion and an open state opening the connecting portion. The cover portion can be in the open state when the housing is installed in the device, and in the closed state when it is removed from the device.

[0007] The recording device is configured to be detachable from the aforementioned drain collection body. The recording device includes a recording section that sprays liquid onto a medium for recording. When the recording section is recording, the drain collection body collects the liquid sprayed from the recording section onto the outer side of the end of the medium as drain liquid.

[0008] The recording device is configured to be detachable from the aforementioned drain collection body. The recording device includes a recording unit that sprays liquid onto a medium for recording. The drain collection body collects the drain generated during maintenance to keep the recording unit in a normal state. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 A perspective view showing the configuration of the recording device according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 A perspective view showing the configuration of the recording device according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the internal structure of the recording device according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 A top view showing the configuration of the drain recovery unit according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 A perspective view showing the configuration of the drain recovery unit according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 A side view showing the configuration of the drain recovery unit according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 A perspective view showing the configuration of the recording device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 A perspective view showing the structure of the drain collection body according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 9 A perspective view showing the structure of the drain collection body according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 10A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the drain collection body according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 10B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the drain collection body according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 10C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the drain collection body according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 11 A side view showing the structure of the drain reservoir according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 12A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the drain collection body according to the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 12B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the drain collection body according to the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 13A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the drain collection body according to the third embodiment.

[0025] Figure 13B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the drain collection body according to the third embodiment.

[0026] Figure 13C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the drain collection body according to the third embodiment.

[0027] Figure 14A A perspective view showing the structure of the drain collection body according to the fourth embodiment.

[0028] Figure 14B A top view showing the structure of the drain collection body according to the fourth embodiment.

[0029] Figure 15 An internal diagram illustrating the structure of the absorber according to the fourth embodiment.

[0030] Figure 16A A perspective view showing the structure of the drain collection body according to the fifth embodiment.

[0031] Figure 16B A perspective view showing the structure of the drain collection body according to the fifth embodiment.

[0032] Figure 17 A cross-sectional view showing the structure of the drain collection body according to the sixth embodiment.

[0033] Figure 18A An internal diagram illustrating the structure of a drain reservoir in a modified example of the absorbent.

[0034] Figure 18B An internal diagram illustrating the structure of a drain reservoir in a modified example of the absorbent.

[0035] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a drain reservoir in a modified example of the absorbent.

[0036] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0037] 10: Recording device; 11: Back cover; 12: Main body of the device; 20: Operating section; 25: Ink supply section; 26: Ink tank; 30: Carriage; 32: Recording head; 33: Guide rail; 34: Platform; 35: Through hole; 40: Maintenance section; 41: Cap; 50: Drainage and recovery section; 55: Discharge section; 56: Tank section; 60, 60A, 60B, 60C, 60D, 60E, 60F, 60G: Drainage and collection body; 61: Holding section; 62: Housing; 63: Absorbent; 63a: First absorbent; 63b: Second absorbent; 6 4: Connecting part; 70: Base plate part; 101: First surface; 102: Second surface; 103: Third surface; 111: First part; 112: Second part; 113: Third part; 121: First area; 122: Second area; 130: Protrusion; 131: Inclined surface; 201: Cover part; 202: Opening and closing body; 203: Shaft; 204: Weight part; 205: Protrusion; 211: Cover part; 212: Slit; 212a: Center point; 221: Cover part; 222: Opening and closing body; 223: Shaft; 224: Abutment part; P: Medium. Detailed Implementation

[0038] 1. First Implementation Method

[0039] First, the configuration of the recording device 10 will be described. The recording device 10 of this embodiment is a serial inkjet printer that ejects liquid ink onto a medium P (e.g., paper) for recording.

[0040] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A perspective view showing the configuration of the recording device 10.

[0041] It should be noted that when the recording device 10 is positioned in the XY plane (horizontal plane) parallel to the X and Y axes, the direction along the Z-axis is the up-down direction, the +Z direction is the up direction, and the -Z direction is the down direction. Similarly, the direction along the Y-axis is the front-back direction, with the +Y direction side being the front direction (front surface side) and the -Y direction side being the rear direction (back side). Furthermore, the direction along the X-axis is the left-right direction (width direction), with the +X direction side being the left direction and the -X direction side being the right direction.

[0042] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the main body 12 of the device includes a generally rectangular shell 13 and a document reading device 14 disposed on the shell 13. The document reading device 14 includes a horizontal document mounting surface 15 made of transparent glass or the like for mounting the document to be read, and a document cover 16 that can cover the document mounting surface 15. The document cover 16 is configured to be able to be closed in the closed state ( Figure 1 ) and open state ( Figure 2The original document cover 16 opens and closes with a rotation axis (not shown) parallel to the X-axis along the width direction as the center of rotation. In the closed state, the original document cover 16 covers the original document placement surface 15 from above. In the open state, the original document cover 16 opens from the closed state to open the area above the original document placement surface 15.

[0043] On the outer surface of the housing 13, at the lower part of the front surface 17 which forms the front of the device body 12, a discharge port 18 is provided for discharging the medium P from the inside. Inside the discharge port 18, a stacker 19 is provided for supporting the medium P in a loading state as it is discharged from the housing 13 toward the front side.

[0044] An operation section 20, operated by the user of the recording device 10, is provided on the upper part of the front surface 17 of the housing 13. The operation section 20 is a panel that extends laterally upwards along the width direction of the X-axis. The operation section 20 includes a power button 21 operated when starting or stopping the recording device 10, and an operation button 22 operated when inputting various operation information. Additionally, a liquid crystal display 23 is provided that can display the operating status of the recording device 10, etc. The liquid crystal display 23 may also be a touch panel.

[0045] An ink supply section 25 is provided on the front surface 17 of the housing 13. The ink supply section 25 supplies ink to the recording head 32 ( Figure 3 The ink supply unit 25 includes multiple ink containers 26, etc. Each ink container 26 is a container capable of holding ink.

[0046] Next, the internal structure of the recording device 10 will be described.

[0047] like Figure 3 As shown, the recording device 10 includes a recording head 32 as a recording unit and a carriage 30 on which the recording head 32 is mounted.

[0048] The carriage 30 is supported by a guide rail 33 extending in the X-axis direction and is configured to move back and forth in the X-axis direction by a drive mechanism (not shown).

[0049] A platform 34 supporting the medium P being transported is disposed below the recording head 32.

[0050] The recording head 32 has multiple nozzles and sprays ink as droplets onto the medium P supported by the platform 34. The platform 34 is plate-shaped.

[0051] The recording apparatus 10 includes a paper feed section (not shown) that conveys the medium P via a platform 34 toward a discharge port 18. Furthermore, during the movement of the carriage 30 along the X-axis, images, text, etc., are recorded on the medium P by alternating between recording and conveying actions. In the recording action, the recording head 32 ejects droplets to record one channel (pass), and in the conveying action, the medium P is conveyed to the next recording position.

[0052] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the ink supply unit 25 and the ink tank 26 are of the type that are not on the carriage but are located at a different position from the carriage 30. However, the ink supply unit 25 and the ink tank 26 may also be of the type that are detachably mounted on the carriage 30. In addition, the recording device 10 is not limited to a serial mode, and the recording head 32 may also be a long strip-shaped horizontal head that is configured across the entire maximum width range of the medium P, and may be a horizontal mode that can eject droplets simultaneously across the entire width range of the medium P.

[0053] The recording device 10 also includes a maintenance unit 40. The maintenance unit 40 performs maintenance to keep the recording head 32 in a normal state. For example, it performs a cleaning operation to forcibly expel ink and air from the recording head 32.

[0054] The maintenance unit 40 is equipped with a cap 41. During the period when the recording device 10 is not performing a recording operation, the carriage 30 is positioned at a location that is offset from the recording area during the recording operation, i.e., in its original position.

[0055] The cap 41 is positioned in place and is a box-shaped component with a base. The cap 41 can move along the Z-axis via a lifting mechanism. The cap 41 is pushed up against the lower surface of the recording head 32. Thus, the cap 41 forms a closed space by covering the nozzles formed on the lower surface of the recording head 32. This closed space helps to prevent ink drying within the nozzles of the recording head 32.

[0056] Cap 41 is connected to a suction pump via a suction tube. The suction pump draws ink and air from inside the recording head 32 through the suction tube by being driven in a closed-space state. This draws out deteriorated ink (dried ink with increased viscosity) from inside the recording head 32 and restores the recording head 32 to a normal state.

[0057] In addition, in the maintenance section 40, in order to keep the recording head 32 in a normal state, a flushing action is performed periodically to force ink out of the recording head 32 toward the cap 41 to remove the deteriorated ink inside the recording head 32.

[0058] The ink (discharge liquid) discharged from the recording head 32 during maintenance such as cleaning and rinsing operations will be treated as waste liquid.

[0059] In addition, waste liquid is also generated during so-called borderless printing. Specifically, during recording based on the recording head 32, the ink (drainage liquid) ejected from the recording head 32 to the outer side of the end of the medium P becomes waste liquid.

[0060] As described above, the drained liquid generated inside the device body 12 is recovered by the drained liquid recovery unit 50. Furthermore, the drained liquid recovered by the drained liquid recovery unit 50 is discharged into the drained liquid receiving body 60, and the discharged drained liquid is received by the drained liquid receiving body 60.

[0061] Next, the structure of the drain recovery unit 50 will be explained.

[0062] like Figure 4 As shown, a drain recovery section 50 is disposed below the platen 34. The drain recovery section 50 is plate-shaped and large enough to support the entire platen 34. A plurality of through holes 35 are provided on the platen 34. The through holes 35 are holes that extend in the vertical direction and are used during marginless printing to guide the drain liquid (waste liquid) discarded on the outer side of the end of the medium P to the drain recovery section 50 disposed below.

[0063] like Figure 5 As shown, the drain recovery unit 50 includes a receiving section 51 for receiving drained liquid discharged from the platform 34. The receiving section 51 includes a flat section 51a having a flat surface and a wall section 51b dividing the flat section 51a, and receives the drained liquid discharged from the platform 34 through the flat section 51a divided by the wall section 51b.

[0064] Furthermore, the drain recovery section 50 has a recess 52 that is recessed downwards compared to the flat surface of the flat section 51a. The recess 52 is located at the center of the drain recovery section 50 along the X-axis. As a result, the drained liquid from the flat section 51a can easily flow into the recess 52.

[0065] The waste liquid recovery unit 50 recovers the waste liquid generated during borderless printing as waste liquid. In addition, it is not limited to this, but can also recover the waste liquid discharged during cleaning based on the maintenance unit 40 and the waste liquid discharged during rinsing by means of the cap 41 as waste liquid.

[0066] The drainage recovery unit 50 has a discharge section 55 for discharging the recovered drainage into the drainage collection body 60. In this embodiment, the discharge section 55 protrudes in the -Y direction and is provided with a groove 56 for drainage flow. The groove 56 has an elongated recess along the Y-axis. The outer dimension of the discharge section 55 along the X-axis gradually decreases in the -Y direction. In addition, the outer dimension of the discharge section 55 along the Z-axis gradually decreases in the -Y direction. That is, the outer shape of the discharge section 55 is tapered in the -Y direction. The discharge section 55 protrudes from the bottom of the recess 52 in the -Y direction. In addition, the groove 56 slopes downward in the -Y direction. As a result, the drainage can easily flow from the recess 52 toward the drainage collection body 60.

[0067] It should be noted that although the discharge section 55 in this embodiment is disposed in the central part of the discharge recovery section 50 along the X-axis, it can be disposed on the +X direction side or the -X direction side of the discharge recovery section 50.

[0068] like Figure 6 As shown, the front end of the discharge section 55 in the -Y direction is inserted into the interior of the drain collection body 60 via the connecting part 64. Since the discharge section 55 is pointed in the -Y direction, it can be easily inserted into the interior of the drain collection body 60. By inserting the discharge section 55 into the drain collection body 60 via the connecting part 64, the drained liquid can flow accurately into the drain collection body 60. The connecting part 64 is provided on the first surface 101 of the housing 62. In this embodiment, the first surface 101 is the +Y direction end face of the housing 62 when the drain collection body 60 is installed on the device body 12. Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the housing 62 of the drain collection body 60 is filled with absorbent bodies 63 to absorb the drained liquid, the groove 56 of the discharge section 55 and the absorbent bodies 63 can easily come into contact. Therefore, the drained liquid discharged through the groove 56 of the discharge section 55 is absorbed by the absorbent bodies 63.

[0069] Next, the composition of the drain collection body 60 will be explained.

[0070] The drain collection body 60 collects the drain generated inside the main body 12 of the device through the drain recovery section 50.

[0071] The drain reservoir 60 can be detached from and attached to the recording device 10 (device body 12), which is a device equipped with a drain section 55. Since there is a limit to the amount of drained liquid that can be stored in the drain reservoir 60, it is necessary to replace it with a new drain reservoir 60. Therefore, when the drained liquid in the drain reservoir 60 reaches the prescribed storage amount, the drain reservoir 60 in use is removed from the device body 12, and a new drain reservoir 60 is installed on the device body 12.

[0072] The prescribed amount of ink to be drained from the drain reservoir 60 is determined, for example, based on the cumulative amount of ink ejected from the recording head 32. If the cumulative amount of ejected ink reaches the prescribed amount, the liquid crystal display 23 will display a message indicating that the drain reservoir 60 needs to be replaced. In this case, such as Figure 7 As shown, the user removes the back cover 11, which is mounted on the back side of the device body 12, from the device body 12.

[0073] Therefore, as Figure 8 As shown, the drain reservoir 60 is exposed. The drain reservoir 60 is configured to be supported by the base plate 70. The drain reservoir 60 has a gripping part 61 for holding with fingers. The gripping part 61 is provided on the second surface 102 of the drain reservoir 60 opposite to the first surface 101 where the connecting part 64 is located. The user can remove the drain reservoir 60 from the device body 12 by pulling it in the Y direction while the user's fingers are engaged in the gripping part 61.

[0074] It should be noted that when the drain reservoir 60 is installed into the device body 12, the drain reservoir 60 is inserted into the device body 12 with the connecting part 64 facing the +Y direction, and the drain reservoir 60 is placed on the base plate 70. Then, the user installs the back cover 11 on the back side of the device body 12. If a new drain reservoir 60 is replaced, the accumulation amount of ink ejected from the recording head 32 is reset.

[0075] Here, the drain collection body 60 can be detached from the main body 12 of the device. As mentioned above, when removing the drain collection body 60 from the discharge section 55 while holding the gripping part 61, it is possible to hold it with the gripping part 61 at the top. Since holding it in this way will cause the connecting part 64 to fall downwards, there is a concern that the drained liquid inside the drain collection body 60 may flow down from the connecting part 64 due to gravity. If the drained liquid flows down from the connecting part 64, it may cause various problems such as contamination of the user's health and property.

[0076] Therefore, the drain collection body 60 of this embodiment has the following configuration: when it is removed from the main body 12, except that the connecting part 64 is in a downward position, even if the drain collection body 60 is held in any position, the drain will be prevented from flowing down from the connecting part 64.

[0077] The following is a detailed description of the composition of the drainage collection body 60.

[0078] like Figure 9 As shown, the drain collection body 60 has a shell 62 made of resin material. The shell 62 is a container capable of collecting drained liquid.

[0079] Furthermore, a connecting portion 64, which connects to the discharge portion 55, is disposed on a portion of the housing 62 of the drain collection body 60. The connecting portion 64 is provided on a first surface 101 that forms the end face of the housing 62 in the +Y direction. In this embodiment, the connecting portion 64 has an opening (through hole), through which the drained liquid recovered by the drain recovery portion 50 is introduced into the housing 62.

[0080] Furthermore, a cover 201 is provided on the connecting part 64.

[0081] In this embodiment, the connecting portion 64 is disposed at the center of the first surface 101 along the X-axis. It should be noted that the connecting portion 64 may not be disposed at the center of the first surface 101 along the X-axis.

[0082] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an absorbent 63 is disposed inside the housing 62. The absorbent 63 is a component that absorbs the drained liquid, such as non-woven fabric or sponge material. The absorbent 63 covers the entire interior of the housing 62. Therefore, in this embodiment, the drained liquid recovered by the drained liquid recovery unit 50 is introduced into the housing 62 through the connecting part 64, and the introduced drained liquid is absorbed and retained by the absorbent 63. By retaining the drained liquid, the flow of drained liquid can be more effectively suppressed.

[0083] like Figure 10A As shown, the drain collection body 60 includes a cover 201 that can be moved to a closed state covering the connection portion 64 and an open state opening the connection portion 64. This cover 201 can be in an open state while the housing 62 is mounted on the device body 12. Figure 10B ), and in the state of being removed from the main body 12 of the device, it is in a closed state. Figure 10C ).

[0084] In this embodiment, the cover 201 is rotatably mounted on the connecting portion 64. Specifically, it includes a plate-shaped opening / closing body 202 and a shaft 203 capable of rotating the opening / closing body 202. The opening / closing body 202 has the same size as the opening of the connecting portion 64. The shaft 203 is disposed at the -Z end of the opening / closing body 202 and extends in the direction along the X-axis. The opening / closing body 202 can be moved to open and close about the shaft 203. Thus, it is possible to move to an open state and a closed state with simple configuration.

[0085] Then, as Figure 10B As shown, when the drain collection body 60 with the cover 201 in the closed state is installed onto the device body 12, the discharge part 55 presses the opening and closing body 202 of the cover 201 in the -Y direction. As a result, the opening and closing body 202 rotates about the axis 203, and the cover 201 is opened.

[0086] Then, as Figure 10CAs shown, when the drain collection body 60 is removed from the device body 12 and the first surface 101 is facing downwards, the cover 201 is in a closed state. A weight portion 204 is provided on the side of the opening / closing body 202 opposite to the shaft 203. The weight portion 204 is thicker than the other parts of the opening / closing body 202. As a result, the weight portion 204 promotes rotational force around the shaft 203, and the cover 201 smoothly closes.

[0087] That is, in this embodiment, the cover 201 is displaced from the open state to the closed state by its own weight. As a result, no special configuration for displacing the cover 201 is required, and the configuration can be simplified.

[0088] It should be noted that during the process of moving from the open state to the closed state, the opening and closing body 202 is restricted from rotating and moving by abutting the -Z direction end of the opening and closing body 202 against the protrusion 205 provided inside the housing 62, and the closed state is maintained.

[0089] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown, the housing 62 has a third surface 103 that intersects with the first surface 101. Furthermore, when loaded onto the device body 12 with the third surface 103 facing downwards, the inner side of the third surface 103 slopes downwards in a direction away from the connection point between the first surface 101 and the third surface 103 (in the -Y direction). Therefore, since the connecting portion 64 faces upwards compared to the other parts, when the drain collection body 60 is placed, the connecting portion 64 is positioned so as not to face downwards, thus suppressing the flow of drain fluid to the connecting portion 64.

[0090] In this embodiment, the third surface 103 is a flat surface, and a protrusion 130 is provided on the side of the third surface 103 closer to the center than the first surface 101. Specifically, a convex protrusion 130 is provided at the +Y direction end of the third surface 103 facing downward. Furthermore, when the drain receiver 60 is installed to the device body 12, the top surface of the protrusion 130 abuts against the base plate portion 70. As a result, since the drain receiver 60 is inclined downward in the -Y direction, it is possible to suppress the flow of drain liquid to the connecting portion 64. It should be noted that the drain receiver 60 can also be placed on a table or floor with the protrusion 130 facing downward. Even so, since the housing 62 is inclined downward from the first surface 101 toward the second surface 102, it is possible to suppress the flow of drain liquid to the connecting portion 64.

[0091] According to this embodiment, by providing a cover 201 on the connection portion 64, it is possible to suppress the flow of liquid from the connection portion 64.

[0092] Furthermore, when the connecting portion 64, which is likely to drain, is facing downwards, the cover portion 201 is closed, thus suppressing the draining. It should be noted that "facing downwards" refers not only to the case directly below, but also includes the case with a downward component. Additionally, the closed state is not limited to completely blocking the connecting portion 64; blocking at least a portion of the connecting portion 64 is sufficient.

[0093] It should be noted that in this embodiment, a torsion spring can also be configured to be arranged on the shaft 203 and apply force to the opening / closing body 202 towards the closed state. In this case, when the discharge part 55 is connected to the connecting part 64, the discharge part 55 overcomes the applied force of the torsion spring to move the cover part 201 from the closed state to the open state. Furthermore, when the discharge part 55 is separated from the connecting part 64, the cover part 201 moves from the open state to the closed state due to the applied force of the torsion spring. Even so, the cover part 201 can be moved with a simple configuration.

[0094] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0095] Next, the second embodiment will be described. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are used for configurations that are the same as those in the first embodiment, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0096] In this embodiment, the structure of the drain collection body 60A having a cover portion 211 in the connecting portion 64 will be described.

[0097] like Figure 12A and Figure 12B As shown, the drain receiver 60A has a cover 211 that can be moved to a closed state covering the connection 64 and an open state opening the connection 64. The cover 211 can be in an open state when the housing 62 is installed on the device body 12, and in a closed state when it is removed from the device body 12.

[0098] The cover portion 211 is an elastic body that covers the connecting portion 64. Furthermore, a slit 212 is provided on this elastic body. The slit 212 is a cut provided from the center point 212a of the cover portion 211 toward the outer periphery of the cover portion 211. Multiple slits 212 are formed from the center point 212a.

[0099] Since the cover 211 is an elastic body, it applies force towards the closed state. Furthermore, when the drain receiver 60A with the cover 211 in the closed state is installed onto the device body 12 (connecting the drain portion 55 to the connecting portion 64), the drain portion 55 overcomes the applied force in the cover 211 and presses the cover 211 in the -Y direction. As a result, the cover 211 deforms, displacing from the closed state to the open state. Therefore, no special structure is needed to control the opening and closing of the cover 211, simplifying the configuration.

[0100] Furthermore, when the drain collection body 60A is removed from the device body 12, the cover 211 is in a closed state. That is, by applying force based on the elastic body of the cover 211, it is moved from the open state to the closed state in conjunction with the movement of the discharge part 55.

[0101] According to this embodiment, since the cover 211 always becomes closed once the drain collection body 60A is removed from the device body 12, it is possible to suppress the flow of drain from the connection part 64.

[0102] It should be noted that the cover portion 211 of this embodiment and the rotating cover portion 201 of the first embodiment can also be used together. Specifically, the cover portion 211 is disposed on the outside of the rotating cover portion 201. This further suppresses the flow of liquid.

[0103] 3. Third Implementation Method

[0104] Next, the third embodiment will be described. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are used for configurations that are the same as those in the first embodiment, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0105] In this embodiment, the structure of the drain collection body 60B having a cover portion 221 in the connecting portion 64 will be described.

[0106] like Figure 13A and Figure 13B As shown, the drain collection body 60B includes a cover 221 that can be moved to a closed state covering the connection portion 64 and an open state opening the connection portion 64. This cover 221 can be in the open state while the housing 62 is mounted on the device body 12. Figure 13C ), while in the state of being removed from the main body 12 of the device, it is in the closed state.

[0107] In this embodiment, the first surface 101 of the drain collection body 60B becomes the upper surface of the housing 62 when the housing 62 is installed on the main body 12 of the device. That is, the connecting part 64 is disposed on the first surface 101, which becomes the upper surface.

[0108] In this embodiment, the cover 221 is rotatably disposed on the connecting portion 64. Specifically, it includes a plate-shaped opening / closing body 222 and a shaft 223 capable of rotating the opening / closing body 222. The opening / closing body 222 has the same size as the opening of the connecting portion 64. The shaft 223 is disposed at the -Y direction end of the opening / closing body 222 and extends in the direction along the X axis. The opening / closing body 222 can be moved to open and close about the shaft 223. Thus, it is possible to move to an open state and a closed state with simple configuration.

[0109] In addition, such as Figure 13CAs shown, when the drain collection body 60B with the cover 221 in the closed state is installed onto the device body 12, the front end of the drain portion 55 abuts against the lower end of the opening / closing body 222 in the +Y direction. This causes the +Y end of the opening / closing body 222 to move upwards about the axis 223, opening the cover 221. In other words, when the drain portion 55 is connected to the connecting portion 64, the drain portion 55 overcomes the weight of the cover 221, causing the cover 221 to move from the closed state to the open state. Therefore, the opening and closing of the cover 221 can be performed with a simple configuration.

[0110] In addition, such as Figure 13A and Figure 13B As shown, with the drain collection body 60B removed from the main body 12, the cover 221 is in a closed state. Specifically, the opening / closing body 222 is kept closed by the lower end of the opening / closing body 222 in the +Y direction abutting against the abutting portion 224 located at the lower end of the opening / closing body 222 in the +Y direction. That is, in this embodiment, the cover 221 is displaced from the open state to the closed state by its own weight. Therefore, no special configuration for displacement is required, simplifying the configuration.

[0111] According to this embodiment, by providing a connecting part 64 on the upper surface of the drain collection body 60B, when the drain collection body 60B is removed, it is difficult for the user to make the connecting part 64 face downwards, thus preventing the drain from flowing down from the connecting part 64.

[0112] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, a torsion spring can also be configured to apply force to the opening / closing body 222 towards the abutment portion 224. In this case, when the discharge portion 55 is connected to the connecting portion 64, the discharge portion 55 overcomes the applied force of the torsion spring, causing the cover portion 221 to move from the closed state to the open state. Furthermore, when the discharge portion 55 is separated from the connecting portion 64, the cover portion 221 moves from the open state to the closed state due to the applied force of the torsion spring. Even so, the cover portion 221 can be moved using a simple configuration.

[0113] 4. Fourth Implementation Method

[0114] Next, the fourth embodiment will be described. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are used for configurations that are the same as those in the first embodiment, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0115] In the drain collection body 60C of this embodiment, the shape of the first surface 101 of the shell 62 is different. Specifically, as shown in... Figure 14A and Figure 14BAs shown, the first surface 101 of the housing 62 in this embodiment has a first portion 111 where a connecting portion 64 and a cover portion 201 are provided, and a second portion 112 that is closer to the front than the first portion 111 when viewed from the top view of the first surface 101. That is, the first portion 111 is located in a recessed portion relative to the second portion 112, and the second portion 112 is formed as a convex shape that protrudes relative to the first portion 111. In this embodiment, the second portion 112 is provided in the +X direction and the -X direction of the connecting portion 64. As a result, since the drain fluid in the housing 62 flows towards the second portion 112, which is located further down than the connecting portion 64, even if the connecting portion 64 is held downward, the drain fluid can be suppressed from flowing down from the connecting portion 64.

[0116] Furthermore, the first surface 101 has a third portion 113 that obliquely connects the first portion 111 and the second portion 112. Specifically, with the third surface 103 of the housing 62 above and the first surface 101 below, the third portion 113 has an inclined surface that slopes downward from the first portion 111 toward the second portion 112. This allows the drain fluid to flow smoothly from the first portion 111 toward the second portion 112.

[0117] It should be noted that the third part 113 can also be a shape that connects the first part 111 and the second part 112 at right angles.

[0118] Furthermore, the drain reservoir 60C has a shape that makes it difficult to place (vertically erect) on a table or floor, for example, with the connecting portion 64 facing downwards. Specifically, the second portion 112 has a rounded corner shape. In this embodiment, when the drain reservoir 60C is viewed from the +X direction, the second portion 112 has a curved surface protruding towards the +Y direction. As a result, it becomes impossible to place it with the first surface 101 facing downwards. Therefore, since it is not placed with the connecting portion 64 facing downwards, when the drain reservoir 60 is placed, the connecting portion 64 becomes a non-downward-facing posture, which can suppress the flow of drain fluid from the connecting portion 64.

[0119] like Figure 15 As shown, the absorbent 63 is disposed within the housing 62 in a first region 121 opposite to the connecting portion 64 and a second region 122 separated from the connecting portion 64 compared to the first region 121. Furthermore, the liquid retention force of the absorbent 63 configured in the first region 121 is smaller than that of the absorbent 63 in the second region 122. The first region 121 includes a region opposite to the first portion 111, and the second region 122 includes regions opposite to the second portion 112 and the third portion 113. Therefore, in the first region 121, the fluidity of the drained liquid is increased, promoting the flow of the drained liquid from the first region 121 to the second region 122.

[0120] The liquid retention force of the absorber 63 is set according to the bubble density of the absorber 63. Specifically, the bubble density of the absorber 63 in the first region 121 is set to be lower than the bubble density of the absorber 63 in the second region 122. As a result, the lower bubble density in the first region 121 promotes the flow of liquid from the first region 121 to the second region 122 due to capillary force.

[0121] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the first absorber 63a is disposed in the first region 121, and the second absorber 63b is disposed in the second region 122. Furthermore, the bubble density of the first absorber 63a is lower than that of the second absorber 63b. By disposing of multiple absorbers 63 (first absorber 63a, second absorber 63b) with different bubble densities, the bubble density can be easily adjusted according to the region. It should also be noted that other absorbers can be disposed between the first absorber 63a and the second absorber 63b. In this case, the bubble density of the other absorber is higher than that of the first absorber 63a and lower than that of the second absorber 63b. Even so, the drained liquid can flow from the first region 121 towards the second region 122.

[0122] Next, the function and effect of the drain collection body 60 when the drain collection body 60C is removed from the main body 12 of the device will be explained.

[0123] like Figure 8 As shown, when the drain reservoir 60C is removed from the device body 12, the user pulls the drain reservoir 60C in the -Y direction while the user's finger is inserted into the handle 61. This causes the drain reservoir 60C to move in the -Y direction, disengaging the discharge portion 55 from the connecting portion 64, and the drain reservoir 60C is removed from the device body 12.

[0124] Here, when the user moves the drain collection body 60C while holding the handle 61, if the handle 61 of the drain collection body 60C is facing upwards and the connecting part 64 is facing downwards, the drain fluid inside the housing 62 may flow down from the connecting part 64 in the direction of gravity. It should be noted that the first posture is a posture in which the orientation of the connecting part 64 is not limited to the direction of gravity but includes the downward component.

[0125] However, according to this embodiment, in the first posture of the drain collection body 60C, since the second part 112 is located lower than the first part 111 where the connecting part 64 is provided, the drain fluid inside the housing 62 moves from the first part 111 to the second part 112. As a result, it is possible to suppress the drain fluid from flowing out of the connecting part 64.

[0126] Furthermore, since the first part 111 and the second part 112 are connected at an angle through the third part 113, the drain can move smoothly from the first part 111 toward the second part 112, that is, from the first region 121 toward the second region 122.

[0127] Furthermore, since absorbers 63 (first absorber 63a and second absorber 63b) are disposed inside the housing 62, the drain can move smoothly from the first region 121 toward the second region 122, and by absorbing and retaining the drain introduced through the connecting part 64, the drain can be prevented from flowing out of the connecting part 64.

[0128] Furthermore, since the second part 112 of the drain reservoir 60C has rounded corners, it becomes difficult to place the drain reservoir 60C with the first surface 101 facing downwards. Therefore, since the connecting part 64 is not placed in a downward-facing position, when the drain reservoir 60 is placed, the connecting part 64 is in a non-downward-facing position, which can prevent drain fluid from flowing out of the connecting part 64.

[0129] 5. Fifth Implementation Method

[0130] Next, the fifth embodiment will be described. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are used for configurations that are the same as those in the first embodiment, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0131] In the fourth embodiment of the drain collection body 60C, the second part 112 is designed with rounded corners, but it is not limited to this. In this embodiment, the second part 112 of the drain collection body 60D has an inclined surface, making it difficult to place (erect) on a table or the ground.

[0132] Specifically, such as Figure 16A As shown, when the drain reservoir 60D is viewed in the +X direction, it has an inclined surface that slopes from the -Z direction end of the second part 112 toward the +Z direction end. This makes it impossible to mount the drain reservoir 60D with the first surface 101 facing downwards. Therefore, since the connecting part 64 is not mounted downwards, when the drain reservoir 60D is mounted, the connecting part 64 is in a non-downward orientation, which can suppress the flow of drain fluid from the connecting part 64.

[0133] In addition, such as Figure 16B As shown, it can also be configured with two inclined surfaces that slope towards the +Y direction from the -Z and +Z directions of the second part 112, causing the second part 112 to protrude in the +Y direction. Even so, the same effect can be obtained.

[0134] 6. Sixth Implementation Method

[0135] Next, the sixth embodiment will be described. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are used for configurations that are the same as those in the first embodiment, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0136] In the above embodiment, a protrusion 130 is provided on the third surface 103, but it is not limited to this. For example... Figure 17 As shown, the drain receiver 60E of this embodiment has an inclined surface 131 inside the housing 62 that slopes downward from the +Y direction end toward the -Y direction. As a result, the inner side of the third surface 103 becomes downwardly inclined, which can suppress the drain from flowing to the connecting part 64 side.

[0137] It should be noted that in the drain collection body 60E of this embodiment, it is composed of an inclined surface 131 that slopes downward from the +Y direction end toward the -Y direction and a horizontal surface 132 that extends further toward the -Y direction from the -Y direction end of the inclined surface 131. For example, the horizontal surface 132 may be omitted and the inclined surface 131 may extend to the -Y direction end inside the housing 62. Alternatively, it may be composed of a recess that slopes downward toward the center from the first surface 101 side and the third surface 103 side.

[0138] It should be noted that in the first to sixth embodiments, a hydrophilic agent may also be applied to the periphery of the connecting portion 64 (opening) of the first surface 101 of the housing 62, and to the outer surfaces and peripheries of the cover portions 201, 211, and 221. Alternatively, a hydrophilic treatment may be applied. In this case, since the drained liquid seeping from the connecting portion 64 wets and spreads on the first surface 101, it is easy to prevent the drained liquid from turning into droplets and flowing down.

[0139] Furthermore, the shape of the gripping portion 61 in the first to sixth embodiments is not limited. For example, it can be a through hole, a raised portion, a protrusion, a recess, etc. In addition, it is sufficient that at least a portion capable of being gripped is formed in the second surface 102.

[0140] Furthermore, the drain collection body 60 of the above embodiment has been described as a structure for collecting waste liquid generated during borderless printing and maintenance, but it is not limited to this. For example, the drain collection body 60 may also be a component capable of collecting usable drain liquid (e.g., ink), such as an ink cartridge.

[0141] The absorber 63 is not limited to having a first absorber 63a and a second absorber 63b and forming a bubble density difference through the first absorber 63a and the second absorber 63b.

[0142] For example, Figure 14BThe absorber 63 of the drain reservoir 60C shown can also be configured such that, when mounted on the housing 62, the portion disposed in the second region 122 has a size in the first direction that is larger than the internal dimension of the housing 62 in the first direction. It should be noted that the first direction can be along the X-axis, the Y-axis, or the Z-axis.

[0143] exist Figure 18A In the example of the drain collection body 60F shown, an absorber 63 is formed in the second region 122, and its volume in the X-axis direction is larger than that of the housing 62. It should be noted that the absorber 63 has a uniform bubble density. Furthermore, as... Figure 18B As shown, the absorber 63 is housed within the housing 62. Since the portion corresponding to the second region 122 is larger than the internal dimensions of the housing 62, when the absorber 63 is housed within the housing 62, the portion of the absorber 63 corresponding to the second region 122 is pressed against the housing 62. This allows the bubble density in the second region 122 to be higher than the bubble density in the first region 121. Therefore, since it can be constructed using only one absorber 63 with the same bubble density, the manufacture of the drain collection body 60F becomes easier.

[0144] Additionally, for example, such as Figure 19 As shown, the drain collection body 60G includes a housing 62 with a first surface 101 extending along the X-axis, and an absorbent body 63 is housed within the housing 62. The absorbent body 63 has a first absorbent portion 66a opposite to the connecting portion 64, and a second absorbent portion 66b that is further forward than the first absorbent portion 66a when viewed from above from the first surface 101 side. Even so, because drain fluid flows from the first absorbent portion 66a to the second absorbent portion 66b even when the connecting portion 64 is positioned downwards, drain fluid can be prevented from flowing down from the connecting portion 64.

[0145] The drain collection body has a shell for collecting drained liquid, a connecting part provided on a first surface of the shell and connected to the draining part, and an absorbent body for absorbing the drained liquid. The first surface has a first part provided with the connecting part and a second part that protrudes further than the first part in a direction intersecting the first surface.

[0146] Therefore, even if the connection is held downwards, the drain fluid inside the housing flows towards the second part located below the connection, thus preventing the drain fluid from flowing down from the connection.

[0147] Furthermore, the first surface may also have a third part that is inclined to connect the first part and the second part.

[0148] This allows the drainage fluid to flow smoothly from the first part to the second part.

[0149] Furthermore, it is also possible that the second part is an inclined surface.

[0150] Therefore, the placement with the first surface facing downwards is suppressed. As a result, since the connecting part is not placed in a downward-facing state, when the drain reservoir is placed, the connecting part is in a non-downward-facing position, which can suppress the flow of drain liquid from the connecting part 64.

[0151] Alternatively, the second part could be a shape with rounded corners.

[0152] Even so, it prevents the first surface from being placed downwards. Therefore, since the connecting part is not placed downwards, when the drain reservoir is loaded, the connecting part is in a non-downward orientation, which can prevent the drain from flowing down from the connecting part.

[0153] Alternatively, the housing may have a third surface that intersects with the first surface, and when the housing is placed with the third surface facing downwards, the third surface inside the housing becomes inclined downwards in a direction away from the connection point between the first and third surfaces.

[0154] Therefore, the inner side of the third surface slopes downward, which can suppress the flow of liquid to the connection part.

[0155] Alternatively, a protrusion can be placed on the third surface, closer to the first surface than the center.

[0156] Therefore, since the drain reservoir is tilted downwards in the -Y direction, it is possible to prevent drain fluid from flowing to the connection part. It should be noted that the drain reservoir can also be placed on a table or the ground with the protrusion facing downwards. Even so, since the shell is tilted downwards from the first side to the second side, it is possible to prevent drain fluid from flowing to the connection part.

[0157] Alternatively, the liquid retention force of the first region of the absorbent opposite to the connecting part may be smaller than the liquid retention force of the second region, which is separated from the connecting part compared to the first region.

[0158] For example, the first region includes a region opposite to the first part, and the second region includes a region opposite to the second and third parts. Thus, in the first region, the fluidity of the drain increases, promoting the flow of the drain from the first region to the second region.

[0159] Alternatively, the bubble density in the first region of the absorber may be lower than the bubble density in the second region.

[0160] The liquid retention force of the absorbent is set according to the bubble density of the absorbent. Thus, due to the low bubble density in the first region, the liquid can flow from the first region to the second region side by capillary force.

[0161] Alternatively, the absorber may have a first absorber disposed in a first region and a second absorber disposed in a second region, wherein the bubble density of the first absorber is lower than the bubble density of the second absorber.

[0162] By configuring multiple absorbers (first absorber, second absorber) with different bubble densities, bubble density variation can be easily achieved across regions. It should be noted that other absorbers can also be configured between the first and second absorbers. In this case, the bubble density of the other absorber is made higher than that of the first absorber and lower than that of the second absorber. This allows the drained liquid to flow from the first region towards the second region.

[0163] Alternatively, the absorber may be formed such that, when installed in the housing, the size of the portion disposed in the second region in the first direction is larger than the internal dimension of the housing in the first direction.

[0164] Since the portion corresponding to the second region is larger than the internal dimensions of the shell, if the absorbent is housed inside the shell, the portion of the absorbent corresponding to the second region is pressed against the shell. This allows the bubble density in the second region to be higher than the bubble density in the first region. Therefore, since it can be constructed using only one absorbent with the same bubble density, the manufacture of the drain collection body becomes easier.

Claims

1. A drainage collection body, characterized in that, The device is configured to be detachably attached to a discharge section having a discharge outlet, and is capable of collecting the discharge outlet discharged from the discharge section. The discharge collection body includes: The casing houses the drain; and A connecting portion is disposed on the first surface of the housing and connected to the discharge portion. The first surface has a first portion on which the connecting portion is provided and a second portion that is closer to the front than the first portion when viewed from the top of the first surface.

2. The drain collection body according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first surface has a third portion that is inclinedly connected to the first portion and the second portion.

3. The drainage collection body according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second part is an inclined surface.

4. The drainage collection body according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second part is a shape with rounded corners.

5. The drainage collection body according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The housing has a third surface that intersects with the first surface. When the third surface is placed with the third surface facing downwards, the inner side of the third surface becomes inclined downwards in a direction away from the connection position between the first surface and the third surface.

6. The drain collection body according to claim 5, characterized in that, In the third surface, a protrusion is provided on the side closer to the first surface than the center.

7. The drainage collection body according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The drain collection body also includes an absorber, which is disposed inside the housing to absorb the drained liquid.

8. The drain collection body according to claim 7, characterized in that, For the absorber, the liquid retention force of the first region opposite to the connecting portion is smaller than that of the second region, and the second region is located at a position separate from the connecting portion compared to the first region.

9. The drain collection body according to claim 8, characterized in that, The bubble density in the first region of the absorber is lower than the bubble density in the second region.

10. The drain collection body according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The absorber has a first absorber disposed in the first region and a second absorber disposed in the second region. The bubble density of the first absorber is lower than that of the second absorber.

11. The drain collection body according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The absorber is formed such that, when installed in the housing, the portion disposed in the second region has a size in a first direction that is larger than the internal dimension of the housing in the first direction.

12. The drain collection body according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The housing also includes a gripping portion on a second side opposite to the first side.

13. A recording device, characterized in that, It is configured to be detachable from the drain collection body as described in any one of claims 1 to 12. The recording device includes a recording unit that sprays liquid onto a medium to perform recording. When the recording unit is recording, the drain collection body collects the liquid that is sprayed from the recording unit onto the outside of the end of the medium as drain liquid.

14. A recording device, characterized in that, It is configured to be detachable from the drain collection body as described in any one of claims 1 to 12. The recording device includes a recording unit that sprays liquid onto a medium to perform recording. The drainage collection body collects the drainage generated during maintenance to keep the recording section in a normal state.

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