recording device

Abstract

A recording device is provided to solve the technical problem that it is difficult for a user of the recording device to visually confirm a consumable such as ink when the user visually confirms a visual confirmation window of a visual confirmation surface. The recording device includes a recording unit that performs recording by ejecting a liquid onto a medium; a liquid container that contains the liquid ejected by the recording unit; and a housing that includes a housing outer cover that contains the liquid container, the liquid container having a visual confirmation region configured to enable visual confirmation of the contained liquid, the housing outer cover having a visual confirmation portion configured to enable visual confirmation of the liquid opposite the visual confirmation region, and a light intake portion that takes in light from outside the housing, the liquid container and the housing outer cover having a light path through which the taken-in light passes.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a recording device. BACKGROUND

[0002] A recording device having a visual confirmation surface through which a user can visually confirm a consumable such as ink contained in an ink tank is known. For example, an inkjet recording device described in Patent Literature 1 has an ink tank fixed to a device body. The ink tank contains ink in a containing chamber. An outer wall constituting the containing chamber has a visual confirmation surface through which the ink can be visually confirmed from the outside.

[0003] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-166842 SUMMARY

[0004] There are cases where a user of a recording device cannot visually confirm a consumable such as ink when the user confirms the consumable through a visual confirmation window such as a visual confirmation surface. Here, the consumable includes not only ink but also a medium and the like.

[0005] A recording device of the present application includes a recording section that performs recording by ejecting a liquid toward a medium, a liquid containing section that contains the liquid ejected by the recording section, and a housing. A containing section outer cover that contains the liquid containing section has a visual confirmation region that is configured in such a manner that the contained liquid can be visually confirmed, and the containing section outer cover of the housing has a visual confirmation section that is configured in such a manner that the liquid can be visually confirmed, opposite the visual confirmation region, and a light acquisition section that acquires light from the outside of the housing, and a light path through which the acquired light passes is provided between the liquid containing section and the containing section outer cover.

[0006] A recording device of the present application includes a recording section that performs recording by ejecting a liquid toward a medium, a liquid containing section that contains the liquid ejected by the recording section, a housing that includes a containing section outer cover that contains the liquid containing section, and a medium containing section that has a medium visual confirmation section configured in such a manner that the medium can be visually confirmed, and contains the medium. The containing section outer cover has a light acquisition section that acquires light from the outside of the housing, and an outer cover opening section opposite the medium containing section, a light path through which the light acquired by the light acquisition section passes is provided inside the containing section outer cover, and the medium containing section has a member opening section opposite the outer cover opening section, and the light path communicates with the member opening section via the outer cover opening section. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a brief structure of an appearance of a printer.

[0008] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a printer.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing a simplified structure of the ink container cover and its periphery.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the plane of the ink container cover in the -Y direction.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of the ink container cover, including the ink container.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a simplified view of the internal structure of the ink container cover.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a simplified structure of the ink container cover.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing a partially enlarged structure of the paper feed tray.

[0015] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the paper feed tray and the ink container cover.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the path of light obtained through the light window to the paper tray.

[0017] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing a simplified structure of the paper feed tray.

[0018] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing a simplified structure of the paper feed tray.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing a simplified structure of the printer after the paper tray has been removed.

[0020] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the structure of an LED arranged in the optical path.

[0021] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing an ink container equipped with a light-guiding component.

[0022] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing a simplified structure of the light guide component.

[0023] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing the YZ cross-section of an ink container storing ink at the first water level.

[0024] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the XZ cross-section of an ink container storing ink at the first water level.

[0025] Figure 19This is a diagram showing the YZ cross-section of an ink container storing ink at the second water level.

[0026] Figure 20 This is a diagram showing the XZ cross-section of an ink container storing ink at the second water level.

[0027] Figure 21 This is a diagram showing the YZ cross-section of an ink container storing ink at the third water level.

[0028] Figure 22 This is a diagram showing the XZ cross-section of an ink container storing ink at the third water level.

[0029] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0030] 10…Reading unit, 11…Original document placement unit, 13…Original document transport unit, 20…Printing unit, 21…Cover, 21a…Ink container cover, 23…Operation panel, 25…Ink level confirmation window, 25C…Cyan ink level confirmation window, 25K…Black ink level confirmation window, 25M…Magenta ink level confirmation window, 25Y…Yellow ink level confirmation window, 27…Light-transmitting window, 29…Cover opening, 30…Printing unit, 31…Print head, 33…Carriage, 34…Ink container, 34C…Cyan ink container, 34K…Black ink container, 34M…Magenta ink container Container, 34Y… Yellow ink container, 35… Ink level display, 35C… Cyan ink level display, 35K… Black ink level display, 35M… Magenta ink level display, 35Y… Yellow ink level display, 36… Ink storage chamber, 36C… Cyan ink storage chamber, 36M… Magenta ink storage chamber, 37… Gas-liquid exchange port, 37C… Cyan container gas-liquid exchange port, 38… Buffer chamber, 38C… Cyan ink buffer chamber, 40… Paper tray, 40B… Box bottom, 40F… Box front surface, 40S… Box side surface, 40T… Box top surface, 41… Box front surface 41T…Top surface opening, 42…Box side surface opening, 43…Pick-up roller, 45…First conveyor roller pair, 47…Second conveyor roller pair, 49…Third conveyor roller pair, 51…Fourth conveyor roller pair, 55…Tablet, 57…Paper discharge roller pair, 60…Paper discharge tray, 60a…Lower surface of paper discharge tray, 63…Optical path, 65…Reflective component, 65a…First reflector, 65b…Second reflector, 71…LED, 80…Light guide component, 80M…Magenta ink light guide component, 81…Light entrance section, 81M…Magenta ink light entrance section, 83…First light-emitting section 83M… First luminous part for magenta ink, 85… Second luminous part, 85M… Second luminous part for magenta ink, 87… Third luminous part, 87M… Third luminous part for magenta ink, 89… Fourth luminous part, 89M… Fourth luminous part for magenta ink, 100… Printer, L… Ink, LC… Cyan ink, LK… Black ink, LM… Magenta ink, LY… Yellow ink, M… Printing medium, VL1… First imaginary line, VL2… Second imaginary line, VA… Imaginary range, WL1… First water level, WL2… Second water level, WL3… Third water level. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Figure 1 A simplified structural view of the printer 100 is shown. Figure 1 The printer 100 shown is a multifunction printer equipped with a reading unit 10 and a printing unit 20. The printer 100 has a reading function for reading original documents and a printing function for printing on a printing medium M. The printer 100 is an example of a recording device. The printing medium M is an example of a medium. Printing is an example of recording.

[0032] include Figure 1 Several diagrams, including the one shown, illustrate the XYZ coordinate system. The X, Y, and Z axes are orthogonal to each other. The X-axis is the axis along the width of the printer 100. The -X direction corresponds to the right direction viewed from the user's perspective when the front surface of the device is facing the user. The +X direction corresponds to the left direction viewed from the user's perspective when the front surface of the device is facing the user. Here, the front surface of the device is the side surface of the side surfaces surrounding the printer 100 where the operation panel 23 is located. The operation panel 23 will be described later. The Y-axis is the axis along the depth of the printer 100. The +Y direction corresponds to the direction from the front surface of the device towards the rear of the device. The -Y direction corresponds to the direction from the rear of the device towards the front surface of the device. The Z-axis is the axis along the height of the printer 100. The +Z direction corresponds to the vertical upward direction. The -Z direction corresponds to the vertical downward direction.

[0033] The reading unit 10 reads the original document. The reading unit 10 is disposed above the printing unit 20. The reading unit 10 includes an original document placement section 11 and an original document transport section 13. The original document transport section 13 is disposed above the original document placement section 11. The original document transport section 13 is supported in a manner that allows it to be opened and closed relative to the original document placement section 11.

[0034] The original document mounting unit 11 is a flat-head scanner. The original document mounting unit 11 includes a contact image sensor and an original document mounting surface. The contact image sensor and the original document mounting surface are not shown. When the original document transport unit 13 is closed, the original document mounting unit 11 supports the original document transport unit 13. When the original document transport unit 13 is opened by the user, the original document mounting surface is exposed. The contact image sensor reads the original document mounted on the original document mounting surface. The contact image sensor generates image data by reading the original document.

[0035] The document transport unit 13 transports the original document. The original document is placed on the upper surface of the document transport unit 13. The document transport unit 13 transports the placed original document to the position opposite the contact image sensor. The document transport unit 13 is an ADF (Auto Document Feeder). The document transport unit 13 transports the original document, which is read by the contact image sensor, to the discharge port. The discharge port is not shown.

[0036] The printing unit 20 prints on the printing medium M. The printing unit 20 is an inkjet printer that prints by ejecting ink L onto the printing medium M. The printing unit 20 prints based on printing data. The printing data is data received from an external device. The printing data can also be image data generated by the reading unit 10. The printing unit 20 includes a cover 21, an operation panel 23, a paper feed tray 40, and a paper discharge tray 60.

[0037] Cover 21 covers various functional parts disposed within the printing unit 20. Cover 21 covers the outer periphery of the printing unit 20. Cover 21 is composed of one or more covering parts. Cover 21 has an ink container covering part 21a. Cover 21 corresponds to an example of a housing.

[0038] The ink container cover 21a covers the ink container 34, which will be described later. The ink container cover 21a is composed of one or more covering parts. The ink container cover 21a may also be composed of a part of a covering part. The ink container cover 21a has an ink level confirmation window 25 and a light-transmitting window 27. Details of the ink level confirmation window 25 and the light-transmitting window 27 will be described later. The ink container cover 21a corresponds to an example of an externally mounted receiving part.

[0039] The operation panel 23 receives operations from the user. The operation panel 23 is located on the front surface of the printer 100. The operation panel 23 includes a display, operation buttons, etc. The display shows the results of the operations received from the user. The operation buttons include power input buttons, etc. The operation panel 23 can be constructed from a touch panel with touch input functionality. The structure of the operation panel 23 is not limited as long as it is a structure capable of receiving user operations.

[0040] The paper tray 40 contains printing media M. The contained printing media M is printed by the print head 31, described later. The paper tray 40 is positioned in the +X direction relative to the ink container cover 21a. The paper tray 40 is positioned adjacent to the ink container cover 21a. The paper tray 40 is configured to be detachable from the printing unit 20. The paper tray 40 is configured to be withdrawable from the printing unit 20 in the -Y direction. The paper tray 40 is assembled to the printing unit 20 by the user moving the paper tray 40 in the +Y direction. The paper tray 40 has a front surface opening 41. The front surface opening 41 is provided on the front surface 40F of the paper tray 40. Details of the front surface opening 41 will be described later. An example of the paper tray 40 corresponding to the media container section.

[0041] The paper tray 60 holds the printed media M after printing by the print head 31. The paper tray 60 is positioned above the paper input tray 40. The paper input tray 40, paper tray 60, and operation panel 23 are arranged in the following order along the +Z direction: paper input tray 40, paper tray 60, and operation panel 23. The paper tray 60 is configured to be pull-out along the -Y direction. The paper tray 60 can be moved along the -Y or +Y direction by user operation. The paper tray 60 may also be configured to be movable along the -Y or +Y direction via a tray drive mechanism (not shown). Figure 1 The paper tray 60 shown is displayed as being housed within the printing unit 20.

[0042] Figure 2 The cross-sectional structure of printer 100 is shown. Figure 2 The YZ cross section of printer 100 is shown. Figure 2 The printing unit 20 shown includes a printing section 30, multiple pairs of conveyor rollers, a table 55, a paper feed box 40, and a paper discharge tray 60.

[0043] Figure 2 The paper tray 40 shown contains multiple printing media M. A pickup roller 43 is provided inside the paper tray 40. The pickup roller 43 delivers the printing media M placed on the top layer of the paper tray 40 to the inside of the printing unit 20.

[0044] Multiple conveyor rollers convey the printing medium M. Figure 2 The multiple conveyor roller pairs shown are a first conveyor roller pair 45, a second conveyor roller pair 47, a third conveyor roller pair 49, a fourth conveyor roller pair 51, and a paper discharge roller pair 57. The first conveyor roller pair 45, the second conveyor roller pair 47, the third conveyor roller pair 49, and the fourth conveyor roller pair 51 convey the printing medium M from the paper feed tray 40 to the printing section 30. The paper discharge roller pair 57 conveys the printing medium M from the printing section 30 to the paper discharge tray 60.

[0045] The printing unit 30 prints onto the printing medium M. The printing unit 30 prints onto the printing medium M by ejecting ink L from the printing medium M. The printing unit 30 is an example corresponding to the recording unit. The printing unit 30 includes a print head 31 and a carriage 33.

[0046] Printhead 31 ejects ink L onto printing medium M. Printhead 31 is an inkjet head that ejects ink L. Printhead 31 ejects ink L stored in ink container 34 (described later) onto printing medium M. The ink L stored in ink container 34 flows to printhead 31 through an ink flow mechanism (not shown). The ink L flowing to printhead 31 is ejected from nozzles (not shown). The nozzles are arranged on a plane in the -Z direction of printhead 31. Printhead 31 ejects more than one type of ink L. An example of ink L corresponding to a liquid.

[0047] The carriage 33 carries the print head 31. The carriage 33 is configured to be movable. The carriage 33 moves in the +X or -X direction via a carriage drive mechanism (not shown). The carriage 33 causes the mounted print head 31 to move in the +X or -X direction. The print head 31 ejects ink L when moving in the +X or -X direction. The print head 31 can also eject ink L when moving in both the +X and -X directions.

[0048] The printing plate 55 supports the printing medium M conveyed by the fourth conveyor roller 51. The printing plate 55 is positioned opposite the print head 31. The print head 31 ejects ink L onto the printing medium M supported by the printing plate 55. The printing plate 55 may also be connected to a media suction mechanism (not shown). The printing plate 55 supports the printing medium M attracted by the media suction mechanism.

[0049] The paper tray 60 holds the printing medium M for printing with the printing head 31. Figure 2 The paper tray 60, pulled out along the -Y direction, is shown. The paper tray 60 receives the printing medium M conveyed from the printing section 30 by the paper tray rollers 57.

[0050] Figure 3 A simplified structure of the ink container cover 21a and its periphery is shown. Figure 3 The ink container cover 21a, operation panel 23, paper feed tray 40, and paper discharge tray 60 are shown. The operation panel 23, paper feed tray 40, and paper discharge tray 60 are arranged adjacent to the ink container cover 21a in the +X direction. The ink container cover 21a has an ink level confirmation window 25 and a light-transmitting window 27 on a plane in the -Y direction.

[0051] Figure 3 The ink level confirmation window 25 shown consists of a black ink level confirmation window 25K, a cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, a magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and a yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y. The black ink level confirmation window 25K, the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, the magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and the yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y are each an independent opening. Figure 3 The ink level confirmation window 25 shown has four openings, but is not limited to this. The ink level confirmation window 25 may also have more than one opening. A light-transmitting confirmation window cover may also be provided on the ink level confirmation window 25. By providing a confirmation window cover on the ink level confirmation window 25, dust and other contaminants can be prevented from entering the inside of the ink container cover 21a. The ink level confirmation window 25 corresponds to an example of a visual confirmation section. Any one of the black ink level confirmation window 25K, cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y corresponds to an example of the first region and the second region.

[0052] The ink level confirmation window 25 is configured such that the ink level display section 35 can be visually confirmed. The ink level display section 35 is part of the wall of the ink container 34. The ink level display section 35 is configured such that the ink L stored inside the ink container 34 can be visually confirmed. As an example, the ink level display section 35 is made of a light-transmitting material. The user can determine the ink level by visually confirming the ink L level on the ink level display section 35.

[0053] The black ink level confirmation window 25K is configured such that the black ink level display unit 35K can be visually confirmed. The black ink level display unit 35K is part of the wall of the black ink container 34K. The black ink level display unit 35K is configured such that the level of black ink LB stored inside the black ink container 34K can be visually confirmed.

[0054] The cyan ink level confirmation window 25C is configured such that the cyan ink level display unit 35C can be visually confirmed. The cyan ink level display unit 35C is part of the wall of the cyan ink container 34C. The cyan ink level display unit 35C is configured such that the water level of the cyan ink LC stored inside the cyan ink container 34C can be visually confirmed.

[0055] The magenta ink level confirmation window 25M is configured such that the magenta ink level display unit 35M can be visually confirmed. The magenta ink level display unit 35M is part of the wall of the magenta ink container 34M. The magenta ink level display unit 35M is configured such that the level of magenta ink LM stored inside the magenta ink container 34M can be visually confirmed.

[0056] The yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y is configured such that the yellow ink level display unit 35Y can be visually confirmed. The yellow ink level display unit 35Y is part of the wall of the yellow ink container 34Y. The yellow ink level display unit 35Y is configured such that the level of yellow ink LY stored inside the yellow ink container 34Y can be visually confirmed.

[0057] The ink level display unit 35 is used to display the black ink level display unit 35K, the cyan ink level display unit 35C, the magenta ink level display unit 35M, and the yellow ink level display unit 35Y without distinction. An example of any one of the visual confirmation areas and the second visual confirmation area for the black ink level display unit 35K, the cyan ink level display unit 35C, the magenta ink level display unit 35M, and the yellow ink level display unit 35Y.

[0058] The light-transmitting window 27 captures external light from the outside of the cover 21 and directs it to the inside of the ink container cover 21a. The light-transmitting window 27 is an opening for capturing external light. The light-transmitting window 27 is positioned below the ink level confirmation window 25. Specifically, the light-transmitting window 27 is positioned below the black ink level confirmation window 25K, the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, the magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and the yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y. The position of the light-transmitting window 27 is not limited as long as it can capture external light. Preferably, the light-transmitting window 27 is positioned below the ink level confirmation window 25. This effectively utilizes the area below the ink level confirmation window 25. The light-transmitting window 27 corresponds to one example of a light-transmitting section.

[0059] Preferably, the light-transmitting window 27 is positioned below the ink quantity confirmation window 25.

[0060] By placing the light-transmitting window 27 below the ink quantity confirmation window 25, the light-transmitting window 27 can receive external light when the user is working above the ink quantity confirmation window 25.

[0061] Figure 4 The plane of the ink container cover 21a in the -Y direction is shown. Figure 4 The front surface of the ink container cover 21a is shown when the user views the ink container cover 21a from the -Y direction. Figure 4 The ink container 34 is shown. The ink container 34 is positioned further in the +Y direction than the front surface portion of the ink container cover 21a.

[0062] like Figure 4 As shown, the front surface of the ink container cover 21a has an ink quantity confirmation window 25 and a light-transmitting window 27. Figure 4 The ink level confirmation window 25 shown consists of a black ink level confirmation window 25K, a cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, a magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and a yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y.

[0063] like Figure 4 As shown, an ink level display unit 35 is provided opposite to the ink level confirmation window 25. A black ink level display unit 35K is provided opposite to the black ink level confirmation window 25K. A cyan ink level display unit 35C is provided opposite to the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C. A magenta ink level display unit 35M is provided opposite to the magenta ink level confirmation window 25M. A yellow ink level display unit 35Y is provided opposite to the yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y.

[0064] Figure 4 Black ink container 34K, cyan ink container 34C, magenta ink container 34M, and yellow ink container 34Y are shown. Ink container 34 is used to show the black ink container 34K, cyan ink container 34C, magenta ink container 34M, and yellow ink container 34Y without distinction. An example of any two corresponding liquid containers of the black ink container 34K, cyan ink container 34C, magenta ink container 34M, and yellow ink container 34Y, and an example of a second liquid container.

[0065] The black ink container 34K contains black ink LB. A portion of the black ink container 34K has a black ink level indicator 35K on its peripheral surface. The black ink level indicator 35K is configured such that the contained black ink LB can be visually confirmed. The black ink container 34K is positioned in the +Y direction at the black ink level confirmation window 25K. The black ink container 34K supplies black ink LB to the print head 31.

[0066] The cyan ink container 34C contains cyan ink LC. A portion of the cyan ink container 34C has a cyan ink level display 35C on its peripheral surface. The cyan ink level display 35C is configured such that the contained cyan ink LC can be visually confirmed. The cyan ink container 34C is positioned in the +Y direction of the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C. The cyan ink container 34C supplies cyan ink LC to the print head 31.

[0067] The magenta ink container 34M contains magenta ink LM. A portion of the circumferential surface of the magenta ink container 34M has a magenta ink level display 35M. The magenta ink level display 35M is configured such that the contained magenta ink LM can be visually confirmed. The magenta ink container 34M is positioned in the +Y direction of the magenta ink level confirmation window 25M. The magenta ink container 34M supplies magenta ink LM to the print head 31.

[0068] Yellow ink container 34Y contains yellow ink LY. A portion of the circumferential surface of yellow ink container 34Y has a yellow ink level display 35Y. The yellow ink level display 35Y is configured such that the contained yellow ink LY can be visually confirmed. Yellow ink container 34Y is positioned in the +Y direction of yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y. Yellow ink container 34Y supplies yellow ink LY to printhead 31. Two of the inks L from black ink LB, cyan ink LC, magenta ink LM, and yellow ink LY correspond to liquids, and this is an example of a second liquid.

[0069] Figure 4 The ink container cover 21a shown accommodates a black ink container 34K, a cyan ink container 34C, a magenta ink container 34M, and a yellow ink container 34Y, but is not limited to these. The ink container cover 21a may contain one or more ink containers 34. Figure 4 The ink containers 34K, cyan, magenta, and yellow are arranged in the following order along the +X direction: black ink container 34K, cyan ink container 34C, magenta ink container 34M, and yellow ink container 34Y, but this is not a limitation. The arrangement order of multiple ink containers 34 can be appropriately changed. More than one ink container 34 can also store inks L other than black ink LB, cyan ink LC, magenta ink LM, and yellow ink LY.

[0070] The ink container 34 can also be configured to allow for ink replenishment via a non-illustrated inlet. In this case, it is desirable that the ink L inside the ink container 34 can be easily visually confirmed when the user replenishes the ink L.

[0071] The light-transmitting window 27 is located below the black ink quantity confirmation window 25K, the cyan ink quantity confirmation window 25C, the magenta ink quantity confirmation window 25M, and the yellow ink quantity confirmation window 25Y. Figure 4 The width of the light-transmitting window 27 along the X-axis is larger than the combined width of the four ink level confirmation windows 25 along the X-axis. Preferably, the width of the light-transmitting window 27 along the X-axis is larger than the width of each individual ink level confirmation window 25 along the X-axis. Preferably, the width of the light-transmitting window 27 along the X-axis is larger than the combined width of two adjacent ink level confirmation windows 25 along the X-axis. The light-transmitting window 27 is configured to be wider than the width of a single ink level confirmation window 25 along the X-axis, thereby making it easier for the light-transmitting window 27 to capture external light.

[0072] Alternatively, the skylight 27 can be divided into multiple sections. In this case, the width of the skylight 27 along the X-axis refers to the width of all the skylights 27 along the X-axis.

[0073] Figure 5 A cross-sectional structure of the ink container cover 21a, including the ink container 34, is shown. Figure 5 The YZ cross-section of the ink container cover 21a is shown. Figure 5 The ink container cover 21a and the ink container 34 are shown. As an example, Figure 5 The ink container 34 shown is a cyan ink container 34C. The cross-sectional structure of the cyan ink container 34C is the same as that of the black ink container 34K, the magenta ink container 34M, and the yellow ink container 34Y.

[0074] Figure 5 The ink container cover 21a shown has a cyan ink level confirmation window 25C and a light-transmitting window 27. The light-transmitting window 27 is located in the -Z direction of the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C. The ink container cover 21a is separated from the cyan ink container 34C in the Y-axis direction.

[0075] The ink container 34 has an ink level display 35, an ink storage chamber 36, and a gas-liquid exchange port 37. A buffer chamber 38 is located at the bottom of the ink container 34. The buffer chamber 38 can be integrally formed with the ink container 34 or it can be formed separately. The gas-liquid exchange port 37 corresponds to an example of a gas-liquid exchange section. The buffer chamber 38 corresponds to an example of a storage section. As an example of the ink container 34, the cyan ink container 34C has a cyan ink level display 35C, a cyan ink storage chamber 36C, and a cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C. A cyan ink buffer chamber 38C is located at the bottom of the cyan ink container 34C.

[0076] An ink level display unit 35 is positioned opposite the ink level confirmation window 25. The ink level display unit 35 is located within a portion of the ink container 34. The ink level display unit 35 is configured such that the amount of ink L stored in the ink storage chamber 36 can be visually confirmed.

[0077] Ink storage chamber 36 stores ink L to be ejected by printhead 31. Cyan ink storage chamber 36C stores cyan ink LC to be ejected by printhead 31. Ink storage chamber 36 is connected to gas-liquid exchange port 37. Cyan ink storage chamber 36C is connected to cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C.

[0078] Gas-liquid exchange port 37 performs gas-liquid exchange. Gas-liquid exchange port 37 is positioned further along the -Z direction than the nozzle of printhead 31. The nozzle of printhead 31 is the opening of the nozzle that ejects ink L. Gas-liquid exchange port 37 applies a negative pressure to the nozzle with a head difference corresponding to the height along the Z-axis between the nozzle and the position where gas-liquid exchange port 37 is positioned. Gas-liquid exchange port 37 is configured with an opening area that holds the meniscus of ink L. Gas-liquid exchange port 37 is located inside buffer chamber 38. As an example of gas-liquid exchange port 37, cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C is positioned further along the -Z direction than the nozzle of printhead 31. Cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C applies a negative pressure to the nozzle with a head difference corresponding to the height along the Z-axis between the nozzle and the position where cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C is positioned. Cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C is configured with an opening area that holds the meniscus of cyan ink LC. The gas-liquid exchange port 37C of the cyan container is located inside the cyan ink buffer chamber 38C.

[0079] The buffer chamber 38 is capable of containing ink L flowing out from the gas-liquid exchange port 37. There is a risk that the meniscus formed at the gas-liquid exchange port 37 may be disrupted when the air in the ink storage chamber 36 expands due to pressure or temperature changes. If the meniscus is disrupted, the ink L stored in the ink storage chamber 36 will flow out into the buffer chamber 38. The buffer chamber 38 stores the ink L flowing out from the gas-liquid exchange port 37, thereby preventing ink L from flowing out of the ink container 34. As an example of the buffer chamber 38, the cyan ink buffer chamber 38C can store cyan ink LC flowing out from the cyan container's gas-liquid exchange port 37C.

[0080] The light-transmitting window 27 is positioned opposite the buffer chamber 38. The light-transmitting window 27 is located in the -Y direction of the buffer chamber 38. For example, the light-transmitting window 27 is located in the -Y direction of the cyan ink buffer chamber 38C.

[0081] The ink container 34 has a gas-liquid exchange port 37 for gas-liquid exchange. The printer 100 has a buffer chamber 38 for receiving ink L flowing out from the gas-liquid exchange port 37. A light-transmitting window 27 is provided on the ink container cover 21a opposite to the buffer chamber 38.

[0082] The buffer chamber 38 is positioned below the ink storage chamber 36, thereby positioning the ink level display unit 35 above the buffer chamber 38. The ink level confirmation window 25, opposite the ink level display unit 35, is also positioned above the buffer chamber 38. This increases the area of ​​the light-transmitting window 27 located below the ink level confirmation window 25.

[0083] The front surface of the ink container cover 21a is separated from the ink container 34. A space is provided between the ink container cover 21a and the ink container 34. The space is composed of a first internal region extending into the interior of the ink container cover 21a to the light-transmitting window 27, and a second internal region above the first internal region between the ink container cover 21a and the ink container 34. Light obtained through the light-transmitting window 27 can pass through the space. Hereinafter, the space will be referred to as light path 63. Light path 63 is the space through which light obtained through the light-transmitting window 27 passes. Light path 63 corresponds to an example of a light path.

[0084] The printer 100 includes: a printing unit 30 for printing by ejecting ink L onto a printing medium M; an ink container 34 for holding the ink L ejected from the printing unit 30; and a cover 21 including an ink container cover 21a that holds the ink container 34. The ink container 34 has an ink level display 35 configured to allow visual confirmation of the amount of ink L contained therein. The ink container cover 21a of the cover 21 has an ink level confirmation window 25 opposite to the ink level display 35 and configured to allow visual confirmation of the ink L, and a light-receiving window 27 for obtaining light from the outside of the cover 21. The printer 100 has a light path 63 between the ink container 34 and the ink container cover 21a through which the obtained light passes.

[0085] By obtaining light from the light-transmitting window 27, it becomes easy for the user to visually confirm the ink L inside the ink container 34. Because visually confirming the ink L inside the ink container 34 with external light is easy, the printer 100 achieves cost reduction and energy saving.

[0086] As an example, printer 100 includes a black ink container 34K that holds black ink LB and a cyan ink container 34C that holds cyan ink LC. The cyan ink container 34C has a cyan ink level display 35C configured to allow visual confirmation of the amount of cyan ink LC contained therein. Ink level confirmation window 25 includes a black ink level confirmation window 25K opposite to the black ink level display 35K and a cyan ink level confirmation window 25C opposite to the cyan ink level display 35C. A light-transmitting window 27 is located below the black ink level confirmation window 25K and the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C.

[0087] It becomes easy for users to visually confirm the amount of black ink in the black ink container 34K and the amount of cyan ink in the cyan ink container 34C.

[0088] Preferably, a reflective component 65 is provided within the optical path 63. Figure 5 The structure showing a first reflector 65a disposed within the optical path 63 is illustrated. The first reflector 65a is an example of a reflective component 65. The first reflector 65a reflects light acquired through the light-collecting window 27 to a second internal region in the +Z direction. The first reflector 65a then reflects light to the ink level display unit 35. By reflecting light to the second internal region through the first reflector 65a, it becomes easier for the user to visually confirm the ink level display unit 35. The reflective component 65 corresponds to an example of a reflective unit.

[0089] The printer 100 includes a first reflector 65a disposed in the light path 63 and causing light to reflect. The first reflector 65a causes light to reflect toward the ink quantity display section 35.

[0090] By setting the first reflector 65a, it becomes easy for the user to visually confirm the ink level display unit 35.

[0091] A second reflector 65b can also be set within the optical path 63 as a reflective component 65. Figure 6 A simplified view of the interior structure of the ink container cover 21a is shown. Figure 6 The component is shown in the first interior region of the light path 63 that extends to the light window 27. Figure 6 A first reflector 65a and a second reflector 65b are shown. The first reflector 65a reflects the light acquired through the light-transmitting window 27 along the +Z direction. The second reflector 65b reflects the light acquired through the light-transmitting window 27 along the +X direction. The second reflector 65b reflects light toward the paper tray 40. Figure 6 The first reflector 65a and the second reflector 65b are shown, but the printer 100 is not limited to this structure. The printer 100 may be a structure having either the first reflector 65a or the second reflector 65b. Preferably, the printer 100 has both the first reflector 65a and the second reflector 65b.

[0092] Figure 7 A simplified structure of the ink container cover 21a is shown. Figure 7 The side surface and front surface of the ink container cover 21a in the +X direction are shown. The front surface of the ink container cover 21a has an ink level confirmation window 25 and a light-transmitting window 27. The ink level confirmation window 25 is composed of a black ink level confirmation window 25K, a cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, a magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and a yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y.

[0093] The ink container cover 21a has a cover opening 29 on its +X direction side surface. This +X direction side surface is opposite to the paper feed tray 40. The cover opening 29 is located opposite the paper feed tray 40. The cover opening 29 is located at a position connected to the optical path 63. The cover opening 29 corresponds to an example of an external mounting opening.

[0094] Figure 8 A partially enlarged structure of the paper feed tray 40 is shown. Figure 8 A portion of the paper feed tray 40 shown includes an area adjacent to the side surface of the ink container cover 21a in the +X direction. Figure 8 The front surface 40F, side surface 40S, top surface 40T, front surface opening 41, and side surface opening 42 of the box are shown.

[0095] The front surface 40F of the paper tray is a side surface of the paper tray 40 in the -Y direction. The front surface 40F is a side surface positioned in the direction in which the paper tray 40 is pulled out. When the paper tray 40 is assembled into the printer 100, the front surface 40F forms part of the front surface of the printer 100. The front surface 40F has a front surface opening 41. The front surface 40F corresponds to an example of the first surface.

[0096] The box side surface 40S is the side surface of the paper feed box 40 in the -X direction. The box side surface 40S is opposite to the side surface of the ink container cover portion 21a in the +X direction. The box side surface 40S has a box side surface opening 42.

[0097] The upper surface 40T of the paper tray is a plane in the +Z direction of the paper tray 40. When the paper tray 40 is assembled with the printer 100, the area where the upper surface 40T of the tray connects with the front surface 40F of the tray can also be configured in a position that can be visually confirmed by the user.

[0098] The opening 41 on the front surface of the tray is configured such that the printing medium M contained inside the paper tray 40 can be visually confirmed by the user. The opening 41 on the front surface of the tray is provided on the front surface 40F of the tray. Figure 8The opening 41 on the front surface of the cartridge shown is located in the -X direction on the front surface 40F of the cartridge. The opening 41 on the front surface of the cartridge is located in the area adjacent to the ink container cover 21a. The opening 41 on the front surface of the cartridge corresponds to an example of a media visual confirmation section.

[0099] An opening 42 is provided on the side surface of the paper tray 40S. When the paper tray 40 is assembled into the printer 100, the opening 42 on the side surface of the paper tray faces the opening 29 of the cover portion. The opening 42 on the side surface of the paper tray allows light passing through the optical path 63 to pass through the interior of the paper tray 40 via the opening 29 of the cover portion. The opening 42 on the side surface of the paper tray corresponds to an example of a component opening.

[0100] Figure 9 The relationship between the paper feed tray 40 and the ink container cover 21a is shown. Figure 9 A portion of the front view of printer 100 is shown. Figure 9 A portion of the paper feed tray 40 and a portion of the ink container cover 21a are shown. Figure 9 The structure of the ink container cover 21a shown is similar to Figure 4 The structure of the ink container cover 21a shown is the same.

[0101] The paper tray 40 is positioned adjacent to the ink container cover 21a in the +X direction. The opening 41 on the front surface of the tray is positioned in the +X direction of the light-transmitting window 27. The light path 63 (not shown) is located inside the ink container cover 21a in the +Y direction of the light-transmitting window 27.

[0102] Figure 9 The first imaginary line VL1, the second imaginary line VL2, and the imaginary range VA are shown.

[0103] The first imaginary line VL1 is an imaginary line that passes through the upper end of the light-transmitting window 27 and extends in the +X direction.

[0104] The second imaginary line VL2 is an imaginary line that extends in the +X direction past the lower end of the light-transmitting window 27. The imaginary range VA is the area between the first imaginary line VL1 and the second imaginary line VL2.

[0105] The cover opening 29 is located at a position including at least a portion of the imaginary range VA. The box side surface opening 42 is located at a position including at least a portion of the imaginary range VA. The cover opening 29 and the box side surface opening 42 are located at least partially overlapping. The cover opening 29 and the box side surface opening 42 are configured to allow light passing through the optical path 63 to pass through. The optical path 63 communicates with the box side surface opening 42 via the cover opening 29.

[0106] The opening 41 on the front surface of the housing is positioned to include at least a portion of the imaginary range VA. Thus, when the user observes from the -X direction, the light-transmitting window 27 coincides with the opening 41 on the front surface of the housing in the +Z direction. The position in the -X direction is opposite to the opening 29 of the cover.

[0107] The printer 100 includes a paper tray 40 for containing printing media M. An ink container cover 21a has a cover opening 29 opposite to the paper tray 40. The paper tray 40 has a tray side surface opening 42 opposite to the cover opening 29, and a tray front surface opening 41 configured to allow visual confirmation of the contained printing media M. An optical path 63 communicates with the tray side surface opening 42 via the cover opening 29.

[0108] Thanks to the light obtained from the light window 27, it becomes easy for the user to visually confirm the amount of ink in the ink container 34 and the printing medium M contained in the paper tray 40.

[0109] When a user observes from a position opposite to the opening 29 of the cover, the light-transmitting window 27 coincides with the opening 41 on the front surface of the box in the +Z direction.

[0110] The light path 63 ensures that the reduction in light intensity is suppressed when light obtained through the light window 27 passes through the opening 41 on the front surface of the box.

[0111] Figure 10 The path of light obtained through the light window 27 to the paper tray 40 is shown. Figure 10 An XY cross-section is shown, including a portion of the paper feed tray 40 and a portion of the ink container cover 21a. A second reflector 65b is disposed inside the ink container cover 21a. The second reflector 65b is disposed within the optical path 63.

[0112] like Figure 10 As shown, the cover opening 29 and the box side surface opening 42 are positioned opposite each other. The cover opening 29 is located within the light path 63. The light path 63 communicates with the box side surface opening 42 via the cover opening 29.

[0113] The light obtained through the light-transmitting window 27 is incident on the light path 63 located inside the ink container cover 21a. The incident light is reflected by the second reflector 65b located within the light path 63 toward the cover opening 29. The reflected light passes through the cover opening 29 and the box side surface opening 42, and enters the interior of the paper tray 40. Due to the light incident into the paper tray 40, it becomes easier for the user to visually confirm that the printing medium M is received into the paper tray 40 from the box front surface opening 41.

[0114] The printer 100 includes: a printing unit 30 for printing by ejecting ink L onto a printing medium M; an ink container 34 for holding the ink L ejected from the printing unit 30; a cover 21 including an ink container cover 21a that holds the ink container 34; and a paper tray 40 having a front surface opening 41 configured to allow visual inspection of the printing medium M, and holding the printing medium M. The ink container cover 21a has a light-transmitting window 27 for obtaining light from the outside of the cover 21, and a cover opening 29 opposite to the paper tray 40. A light path 63 through which light obtained by the light-transmitting window 27 passes is provided inside the ink container cover 21a. The paper tray 40 has a side surface opening 42 opposite to the cover opening 29. The light path 63 communicates with the side surface opening 42 via the cover opening 29.

[0115] Because of the light obtained from the light-transmitting window 27, it becomes easy for the user to visually confirm that the printing medium M is contained in the paper tray 40 from the opening 41 on the front surface of the tray. Because of the external light, it becomes easy to visually confirm that the ink L is in the ink container 34, thus the printer 100 achieves cost reduction and power saving.

[0116] The printer 100 includes a second reflector 65b disposed in the light path 63 and reflecting light. The second reflector 65b reflects light toward the cover opening 29.

[0117] The increased amount of light incident on the interior of the paper tray 40 from the second reflector 65b makes it easier for the user to visually confirm the printing medium M contained in the paper tray 40.

[0118] The opening 41 on the front surface of the box can be formed by expanding the upper surface 40T of the box. Figure 11 A simplified structure of the paper feed tray 40 is shown. Figure 11 The paper tray 40 shown has an opening 41 on the front surface of the tray that is expanded on the upper surface 40T of the tray.

[0119] When the paper tray 40 is assembled into the printer 100, the area where the upper surface 40T of the tray connects with the front surface 40F of the tray is positioned in a location that can be visually confirmed by the user. Figure 11 The upper surface 40T of the box shown has an upper surface opening 41T connected to the front surface opening 41 formed on the front surface 40F of the box. The upper surface opening 41T constitutes a part of the front surface opening 41. The upper surface 40T corresponds to an example of the second surface.

[0120] The paper tray 40 has a front surface 40F disposed in the direction of being pulled out, and an upper surface 40T disposed above it. An opening 41 is provided on the front surface 40F and the upper surface 40T.

[0121] An opening 41 is provided on the front surface of the paper tray 40F and the upper surface of the paper tray 40T, thereby making it easier for the user to visually confirm the printing medium M contained in the paper tray 40. In addition, external light can be obtained from the opening 41T on the upper surface, making it easier for the user to visually confirm the printing medium M contained in the paper tray 40.

[0122] Preferably, the inner surface of the paper feed tray 40 is treated with a surface treatment. Figure 12 A simplified structure of the paper feed tray 40 is shown. Figure 12 The front surface 40F, top surface 40T, bottom surface 40B, side surface 40S, opening 41 on the front surface, and opening 42 on the side surface are shown. Figure 12 A plane inside the paper tray 40 is shown on the tray side surface 40S adjacent to the ink container cover 21a.

[0123] The bottom surface 40B of the box holds the printing medium M. The bottom surface 40B can hold printing media M of various sizes. The bottom surface 40B may also have a guide component to guide the end face position of the printing medium M. The guide component is not shown.

[0124] The flat surfaces within the paper tray 40, including the bottom surface 40B, the front surface 40F, and the side surfaces 40S, constitute the inner circumferential surface of the tray. This inner circumferential surface corresponds to an example of the inner surface of the media receiving section. Preferably, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface is subjected to a mirror finish as a surface treatment. By applying a mirror finish to at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface, light incident into the paper tray 40 becomes less prone to attenuation. This makes it easier for the user to visually confirm the printing media M contained in the paper tray 40.

[0125] At least a portion of the inner circumference of the paper tray 40 is mirror-finished.

[0126] The inner circumference of the box is mirror-finished, which makes it easy for the user to visually confirm the printing medium M contained in the paper tray 40.

[0127] Alternatively, a white coating can be applied to the inner circumference of the box as a surface treatment. The white coating reduces the attenuation of light incident on the paper feed tray 40. Alternatively, a black coating can be applied to the inner circumference of the box, particularly the bottom surface 40B. The black coating increases the color difference between the printing medium M and the inner circumference of the box. This makes it easier for the user to visually confirm the printing medium M through contrast.

[0128] Surface treatment can also be applied to the lower surface 60a of the paper tray of printer 100. Figure 13 A simplified structure of the printer 100 with the paper tray 40 removed is shown. Figure 13 A simplified structure of a printer 100, including the lower surface 60a of the paper tray, is shown.

[0129] The lower surface 60a of the paper discharge tray is a plane in the -Z direction of the paper discharge tray 60, opposite to the paper feed cassette 40. At least in the closed state, the lower surface 60a of the paper discharge tray is opposite to the printing medium M contained in the paper feed cassette 40. At least in the closed state, the lower surface 60a of the paper discharge tray forms part of the inner circumferential surface of the cassette. The lower surface 60a of the paper discharge tray may also be surface-treated.

[0130] Preferably, the lower surface 60a of the paper tray is mirror-finished as a surface treatment. By applying a mirror finish to the lower surface 60a of the paper tray, light incident into the paper tray 40 becomes less prone to attenuation. This makes it easier for the user to visually inspect the printing media M contained in the paper tray 40.

[0131] Alternatively, the lower surface 60a of the paper tray can be coated with white paint as a surface treatment. Due to the white paint coating, the attenuation of light incident on the paper feed tray 40 is reduced.

[0132] Alternatively, a portion of the cover 21, namely the bottom cover, can be provided between the paper tray 60 and the paper feed cassette 40. In this case, the lower surface of the bottom cover is opposite to the printing medium M contained in the paper feed cassette 40. Furthermore, the lower surface of the bottom cover forms part of the inner circumferential surface of the cassette. In this case, the lower surface of the bottom cover may also be surface-treated.

[0133] As a surface treatment, the bottom covering can be mirror-finished or coated with white paint. These surface treatments achieve the same effect as applying a surface treatment to the lower surface 60a of the paper tray.

[0134] The light source for illuminating the light can also be set in the light path 63. Figure 14 The structure in which a light source is provided in the optical path 63 is shown. Figure 14 The diagram shows a structure in which an LED71 (light-emitting diode) is arranged in the light path 63. The LED71 is an example of a light source, corresponding to an example of an illumination unit.

[0135] Figure 14 The diagram shows a structure in which an LED 71 is installed in the light path 63 extending to the light window 27. The LED 71 illuminates the light path 63 formed inside the ink container cover 21a. The LED 71 illuminates the light path 63 between the ink container cover 21a and the ink container 34. The LED 71 illuminates the ink level display section 35 of the ink container 34. Figure 14 Three LEDs 71 are arranged in the optical path 63. The three LEDs 71 are arranged along the X-axis. The number of LEDs 71 is not limited to three. One or more LEDs 71 can also be arranged in the optical path 63. The position of the LEDs 71 is not limited. Figure 14The position of LED 71 is shown. Preferably, LED 71 is positioned so that the user can easily visually confirm the position of the ink level display section 35, which is visually confirmed at the ink level confirmation window 25. Preferably, LED 71 is positioned so that the user can easily visually confirm the position of the printing medium M, which is visually confirmed at the opening 41 on the front surface of the cartridge.

[0136] A light bulb (not shown) can also be installed in the light path 63 extending to the light window 27 instead of the LED 71. The light bulb illuminates the light path 63 formed inside the ink container cover 21a. The light bulb illuminates the light path 63 between the ink container cover 21a and the ink container 34. The light bulb illuminates the ink level display section 35 of the ink container 34. The number of light bulbs is not limited to one. Multiple light bulbs can be arranged in the light path 63. The position of the light bulbs is not limited to... Figure 14 The position of LED 71 is shown. Preferably, the bulb is positioned so that the user can easily visually confirm the position of the ink level display 35 at the ink level confirmation window 25. Preferably, the bulb is positioned so that the user can easily visually confirm the position of the printing medium M at the opening 41 on the front surface of the cartridge. An example of the bulb corresponding to the illumination section.

[0137] In this way, the preferred printer 100 has a light source that is disposed in the light path 63 and illuminates the light.

[0138] Because a light source is provided in the optical path 63, it becomes easy for the user to visually confirm the amount of ink stored in the ink container 34. It also becomes easy for the user to visually confirm the printing medium M contained in the paper feed tray 40.

[0139] The printer 100 may also have a light guide component 80 that guides light to the ink container 34. Figure 15 ,as well as Figure 16 The structure of the light guide component 80 is shown. Figure 17 , Figure 18 , Figure 19 , Figure 20 , Figure 21 ,as well as Figure 22 The relationship between the amount of ink stored in the ink container 34 and the light guide component 80 is shown. The light guide component 80 corresponds to an example of a light guide section.

[0140] Figure 15 An ink container 34 with a light guide component 80 is shown. Figure 15 The example shown is a magenta ink container 34M as an ink container 34. The black ink container 34K, cyan ink container 34C, and yellow ink container 34Y can be... Figure 15 The magenta ink container 34M shown has the same structure.

[0141] Figure 15The ink container 34 shown includes a light guide component 80. The light guide component 80 is disposed within the light path 63 and the ink container 34. The light guide component 80 is positioned in the +Y direction of the ink level display unit 35. The light guide component 80 is disposed within the ink storage chamber 36. As an example of the ink container 34, a magenta ink container 34M includes a magenta ink light guide component 80M. The magenta ink light guide component 80M is disposed within the light path 63 and the magenta ink container 34M. The magenta ink light guide component 80M is positioned in the +Y direction of the magenta ink level display unit 35M. The magenta ink light guide component 80M is disposed within the magenta ink storage chamber 36M.

[0142] It should be noted that the light guide component 80 may also be disposed solely within the ink container 34.

[0143] Figure 16 A simplified structure of the light guide component 80 is shown. One end of the light guide component 80 is disposed in the light path 63. The other end of the light guide component 80 is disposed in the ink storage chamber 36 of the ink container 34. The light guide component 80 includes a light-incident section 81, a first light-emitting section 83, a second light-emitting section 85, a third light-emitting section 87, and a fourth light-emitting section 89. Figure 16 The light guide component 80 shown has four light-emitting parts, but is not limited to this. The light guide component 80 may have more than one light-emitting part. The more than one light-emitting part is provided at a position separated from the ink quantity display unit 35.

[0144] As an example of a light guide component 80, one end of a magenta ink light guide component 80M is disposed in the light path 63. The other end of the magenta ink light guide component 80M is disposed within the magenta ink storage chamber 36M of the magenta ink container 34M. The magenta ink light guide component 80M includes a magenta ink light-incident section 81M, a first magenta ink light-emitting section 83M, a second magenta ink light-emitting section 85M, a third magenta ink light-emitting section 87M, and a fourth magenta ink light-emitting section 89M. The structure of the magenta ink light guide component 80M is the same as that of the light guide component 80, and details will be explained using the light guide component 80 as an example.

[0145] The light-incident section 81 guides light into the interior of the light-guiding member 80. The light-incident section 81 forms one end of the light-guiding member 80. The light-incident section 81 is located at the lower end of the light-guiding member 80 in the -Z direction. The light-incident section 81 is provided in the optical path 63. The light-incident section 81 guides light passing through the optical path 63 into the interior of the light-guiding member 80.

[0146] The first light-emitting part 83 emits light guided by the light-incident part 81. The first light-emitting part 83 forms the other end of the light guide member 80. The first light-emitting part 83 is disposed above the light-incident part 81. The first light-emitting part 83 is disposed at the top of the plurality of light-emitting parts. The first light-emitting part 83 is opposite to the ink level display part 35.

[0147] The second light-emitting part 85 emits light guided by the light-receiving part 81. The second light-emitting part 85 is located below the first light-emitting part 83. The second light-emitting part 85 is located above the light-receiving part 81. The second light-emitting part 85 is positioned along the Z-axis between the first light-emitting part 83 and the light-receiving part 81. The second light-emitting part 85 is opposite to the ink level display part 35.

[0148] The third light-emitting unit 87 emits light guided by the light-receiving unit 81. The third light-emitting unit 87 is located below the second light-emitting unit 85. The third light-emitting unit 87 is located above the light-receiving unit 81. The third light-emitting unit 87 is positioned along the Z-axis between the second light-emitting unit 85 and the light-receiving unit 81. The third light-emitting unit 87 is opposite to the ink level display unit 35.

[0149] The fourth light-emitting unit 89 emits light guided by the light-receiving unit 81. The fourth light-emitting unit 89 is positioned below the third light-emitting unit 87. The fourth light-emitting unit 89 is positioned above the light-receiving unit 81. The fourth light-emitting unit 89 is positioned along the Z-axis between the third light-emitting unit 87 and the light-receiving unit 81. The fourth light-emitting unit 89 is opposite to the ink level display unit 35.

[0150] Figure 17 ,as well as Figure 18 An ink container 34 is shown that stores ink L at the first water level WL1. Figure 17 The YZ cross-section of ink container 34, which stores ink L at the first water level WL1, is shown. Figure 18 An XZ cross-section of an ink container 34 storing ink L at the first water level WL1 is shown. Figure 18 An XZ cross-section between the ink level display section 35 and the light guide component 80 is shown. Figure 17 ,as well as Figure 18 A magenta ink container 34M is shown, which stores magenta ink LM as an example of ink L. Details will be explained using the ink container 34 and the light guide component 80.

[0151] like Figure 17 ,as well as Figure 18As shown, ink container 34 stores ink L at a first level WL1. For example, the first level WL1 is the level when ink L is stored in ink container 34 at its maximum capacity. When ink container 34 stores ink L at the first level WL1, the first light-emitting part 83, the second light-emitting part 85, the third light-emitting part 87, and the fourth light-emitting part 89 of the light guide member 80 are located within the ink L. The light emitted by the first light-emitting part 83, the second light-emitting part 85, the third light-emitting part 87, and the fourth light-emitting part 89 cannot reach the ink level display unit 35 due to the stored ink L. Or, even if the light emitted by the first light-emitting part 83, the second light-emitting part 85, the third light-emitting part 87, and the fourth light-emitting part 89 does reach the ink level, the amount of light is smaller compared to the case where there is no ink L. The user cannot visually confirm the light emitted by the first light-emitting part 83, the second light-emitting part 85, the third light-emitting part 87, and the fourth light-emitting part 89. Alternatively, the user may find it difficult to visually confirm the light emitted by the first light-emitting unit 83, the second light-emitting unit 85, the third light-emitting unit 87, and the fourth light-emitting unit 89. The user can visually confirm that the ink L stored in the ink container 34 is at the first level WL1 by visually checking the ink level display unit 35.

[0152] Figure 19 ,as well as Figure 20 An ink container 34 is shown that stores ink L at the second water level WL2. Figure 19 The YZ cross-section of ink container 34 storing ink L at a second water level WL2 is shown. For example, the second water level WL2 is the water level when ink L is stored in ink container 34 at only half of its maximum quantity. Figure 20 An XZ cross-section of ink container 34, which stores ink L at the second water level WL, is shown. Figure 20 An XZ cross-section between the ink level display section 35 and the light guide component 80 is shown. Figure 19 ,as well as Figure 20 A magenta ink container 34M is shown, which stores magenta ink LM as an example of ink L. Details will be explained using the ink container 34 and the light guide component 80.

[0153] like Figure 19 ,as well as Figure 20As shown, ink container 34 stores ink L at a second water level WL2. When ink container 34 stores ink L at a second water level WL2, the first light-emitting part 83 and the second light-emitting part 85 of the light guide member 80 are located above the second water level WL2. The first light-emitting part 83 and the second light-emitting part 85 are exposed. The third light-emitting part 87 and the fourth light-emitting part 89 are located within the ink L. The light emitted by the first light-emitting part 83 and the second light-emitting part 85 can be visually confirmed by the ink level display unit 35. The light emitted by the third light-emitting part 87 and the fourth light-emitting part 89 cannot reach the ink level display unit 35 due to the stored ink L. Or, even if the light emitted by the third light-emitting part 87 and the fourth light-emitting part 89 does reach the ink level display unit 35, the light intensity is lower compared to the case where there is no ink L. The user can visually confirm the light emitted by the first light-emitting part 83 and the second light-emitting part 85. The user cannot visually confirm the light emitted by the third light-emitting part 87 and the fourth light-emitting part 89. Alternatively, the user may find it difficult to visually confirm the light emitted by the third light-emitting unit 87 and the fourth light-emitting unit 89. The user can visually confirm the ink level of the ink L stored in the ink container 34 as the second level WL2 by visually checking the ink level display unit 35.

[0154] Figure 21 ,as well as Figure 22 The ink container 34 is shown, which stores ink L at the third water level WL3. Figure 21 The YZ cross-section of the ink container 34 storing ink L at the third water level WL3 is shown. For example, the third water level WL3 is the water level at which the amount of ink L needs to be replenished. Figure 22 The XZ cross-section of ink container 34, which stores ink L at the third water level WL3, is shown. Figure 22 An XZ cross-section between the ink level display section 35 and the light guide component 80 is shown. Figure 21 ,as well as Figure 22 A magenta ink container 34M is shown, which stores magenta ink LM as an example of ink L. Details will be explained using the ink container 34 and the light guide component 80.

[0155] like Figure 21 ,as well as Figure 22As shown, ink container 34 stores ink L at the third level WL3. When ink container 34 stores ink L at the third level WL3, the first light-emitting part 83, the second light-emitting part 85, the third light-emitting part 87, and the fourth light-emitting part 89 of the light guide member 80 are positioned above the third level WL3. The light emitted by the first light-emitting part 83, the second light-emitting part 85, the third light-emitting part 87, and the fourth light-emitting part 89 can be visually confirmed by the ink level display unit 35. The user can visually confirm the light emitted by the first light-emitting part 83, the second light-emitting part 85, the third light-emitting part 87, and the fourth light-emitting part 89. The user can confirm that the level of ink L stored in ink container 34 is the third level WL3 by visually confirming the ink level display unit 35. When the ink level of ink L at the third level WL3 is determined to be a predetermined amount that is close to being used up, or when the ink is used up, the user can confirm that ink L needs to be replenished.

[0156] The preferred printer 100 has a light guide component 80 that guides light to the ink container 34.

[0157] Users can visually check the ink level of the ink in the ink container 34 by checking the ink level display 35.

[0158] The light-emitting portion of the light guide member 80 may not be separated from the ink level display unit 35, but may instead abut against the ink level display unit 35. In this configuration, the light-emitting portion can be identified without relying on the ink level. Furthermore, the light guide member 80 may also be positioned in the Y-direction of the ink level display unit 35. That is, it may be positioned outside the ink container 34. In this configuration, the light from the light-emitting portion can be identified more clearly by visual inspection.

Claims

1. A recording device, characterized in that, have: The recording unit records data by spraying liquid onto a medium. A liquid receiving section for receiving the liquid ejected from the recording section; and The housing includes an outer casing for accommodating the liquid reservoir. The liquid container has a visual confirmation area configured in a manner that allows for visual confirmation of the liquid contained therein. The housing is externally fitted with: A visual confirmation unit, opposite to the visual confirmation area, is configured to allow visual confirmation of the liquid; and The light-collecting part receives light from the outside of the housing. There is a light path through which the acquired light passes between the liquid container and the outer casing of the container. The light-collecting part is located below the visual confirmation part and is located on the same surface as the visual confirmation part.

2. The recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid container includes: The gas-liquid exchange section performs gas-liquid exchange; and The storage section is capable of containing the liquid flowing out from the gas-liquid exchange section. The light-collecting part is located outside the receiving part at a position opposite to the storage part.

3. The recording device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The recording device further includes a first reflective portion disposed in the light path to reflect the light. The first reflective part causes the light to be reflected toward the visually confirmed area.

4. The recording device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The recording device further includes an illumination unit disposed in the light path for illuminating light.

5. The recording device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The recording device further includes a light guide portion that directs the light to the liquid container.

6. The recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The recording device further includes a second liquid reservoir, which contains a second liquid. The second liquid container has a second visual confirmation area configured such that the contained second liquid can be visually confirmed. The visual confirmation unit has a first region opposite to the visual confirmation area and a second region opposite to the second visual confirmation area. The light-collecting part is located below the first area and the second area.

7. The recording device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The recording device further includes a medium receiving portion that receives the medium. The receiving portion is externally fitted with an external opening opposite to the medium receiving portion. The medium receiving portion has: The component opening is opposite to the external mounting opening; as well as The medium visual confirmation unit is configured to allow for visual confirmation of the contained medium. The optical path communicates with the component opening via the external mounting opening.

8. The recording device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The recording device further includes a second reflective portion disposed in the light path to reflect the light. The second reflective part reflects the light toward the outer opening.

9. The recording device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The medium receiving portion has a first surface disposed in the pull-out direction and a second surface disposed on top. The media visual confirmation unit is disposed on the first surface and the second surface.

10. The recording device according to claim 7, characterized in that, When viewed from a position opposite to the external opening, the light-collecting portion and the media visual confirmation portion coincide in the vertical direction.

11. The recording device according to claim 7, characterized in that, At least a portion of the inner surface of the medium container is mirror-finished.

Images