Liquid storage container

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a liquid storage container. The liquid storage container includes a liquid absorber that absorbs and holds a liquid, a storage portion that stores the liquid absorber, a cover member having a rib, an air communication port provided in the cover member, and a liquid holding path. The storage portion has an opening of a first surface facing the liquid absorber and is covered by the cover member. The rib is in contact with the first surface when the cover member covers the opening. The air communication port communicates an inner space of the storage portion with air. The liquid holding path is provided on the rib adjacent to the air communication port and extends from a contact surface of the adjacent rib toward the cover member. The liquid holding path holds the liquid that has exuded from the first surface of the liquid absorber.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to liquid storage containers capable of storing liquids such as ink. Background Technology

[0002] There exists a conventional ink cartridge that is detachably attached to an inkjet printer. The ink cartridge includes a cartridge housing containing an ink absorber capable of holding ink and a cover member covering an opening of the cartridge housing. A protrusion with a frustoconical shape and a plurality of ribs are provided on the inner surface of the cover member. The protrusion has an air vent communicating with air. When the opening of the cartridge housing is covered by the cover member, the ribs contact the ink absorber. A first groove and a second groove are also formed on the inner surface of the cover member. The first groove is away from and surrounds the protrusion. The second groove is located in the area surrounded by the first groove, branches off from the first groove, and is away from the protrusion. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-248426 discusses an ink cartridge that is detachably attached to an inkjet printer.

[0003] The ink cans, including the can housing, are often handled separately during distribution. During transport, the ink can changes its orientation, and ink seeps from the ink absorber and reaches the inner surface of the cap member via ribs, etc. First and second grooves located near the protrusion retain the ink that has reached the inner surface of the cap member, thereby preventing ink from entering the air vent.

[0004] In recent years, we have seen an increase in the amount of ink being filled into ink reservoirs. Some ink reservoirs are designed to prevent ink from entering the air vent. However, with the recent increase in the amount of ink being filled, further countermeasures are needed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure relates to a liquid storage container that prevents liquid from leaking to the outside through an air vent, even as the volume of a liquid such as ink increases.

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a liquid storage container includes: a liquid absorber configured to absorb and retain liquid; a storage portion storing the liquid absorber and having an opening facing a first surface of the liquid absorber; a cover member configured to cover the opening of the storage portion; a plurality of ribs provided on an inner surface of the cover member positioned closer to the storage portion, wherein the plurality of ribs contact the first surface of the liquid absorber when the opening is covered by the cover member; an air vent provided in the cover member such that an interior space of the storage portion communicates with air; and at least one first liquid retention path provided on at least one of the plurality of ribs adjacent to the air vent and extending from a contact surface of the at least one rib that contacts the first surface toward the cover member. The at least one first liquid retention path is configured to retain liquid that has seeped from the first surface of the liquid absorber.

[0007] Further features of this disclosure will become clear from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a liquid storage container according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 2A and Figure 2B These are separate illustrations. Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the printhead and canister portions of the liquid storage container shown.

[0010] Figure 3 It is a partial map along Figure 1 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the liquid storage container taken by line AA.

[0011] Figures 4A to 4D This is a schematic diagram of an example of the ribs of the cover member.

[0012] Figures 5A to 5D This is a schematic diagram illustrating the state of the liquid near the air vent when the liquid storage container according to the comparative example is rotated once.

[0013] Figures 6A to 6D The diagram is in Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the state of the liquid near the air vent when the liquid storage container is rotated once.

[0014] Figures 7A to 7CThis is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a rib of a cover member used in a liquid storage container according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a rib of a cover member used in a liquid storage container according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 9 It is a diagram. Figures 4A to 4D A schematic diagram of a variation of the ribs of the cover member shown. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The components described in the exemplary embodiments are merely examples, and the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a liquid storage container 100 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The liquid storage container 100 is a cartridge container (inkjet cartridge) with an integrated printhead. Figure 1 As shown, the liquid storage container 100 includes a housing 120 with a printhead portion 110. The printhead portion 110 includes a print element substrate 150 with a plurality of print elements that eject liquid such as ink (see Figure 120). Figure 2A Each of the printed elements is, for example, an electrothermal conversion element including a heating resistor and capable of heating the liquid and ejecting droplets through the action of film boiling.

[0019] Although Figure 1 The liquid storage container 100 shown is for a single color, but this exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. This exemplary embodiment can also be applied to liquid storage containers containing multiple colors of liquid (e.g., a three-color cartridge). This exemplary embodiment can also be applied to liquid storage containers that do not include the printhead portion 110.

[0020] Figure 2A and Figure 2B yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the liquid storage container 100 shown. Figure 2A It is a partially exploded perspective view of the printhead section 110, and Figure 2B This is an exploded perspective view of the tank portion of the shell 120. (See image.) Figure 2A As shown, a recess for attaching a printing element substrate 150 is provided on the bottom surface of the storage portion 140, and a liquid channel 141 is provided in the center of the recess. The printing element substrate 150 is attached to the recess of the storage portion 140 and is electrically connected to an electrical wiring board 130 that supplies drive signals and the like from the main body of the printing device.

[0021] like Figure 2B As shown, the storage portion 140 stores a liquid absorbent 170 capable of absorbing and retaining liquid through capillary action. The storage portion 140 includes an opening 140a facing a first surface 170a of the liquid absorbent 170. The liquid absorbent 170 is made of, for example, absorbent fibers. A cover member 180 covers the opening 140a of the storage portion 140. The cover member 180, covering the opening 140a, faces the first surface 170a of the liquid absorbent 170. The cover member 180 has an internal space 186 allowing for the storage portion 140 (see [reference]). Figure 3 An air vent 181 is provided for communication with air. A groove 182 is formed on the upper surface of the cover member 180, and a sheet member 190 is provided on the groove 182.

[0022] Figure 3 It is a partial map along Figure 1 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the liquid storage container 100 taken by line AA. One end of the liquid channel 141 opens to the inner surface (bottom surface) of the internal space 186 of the storage portion 140, and a filter 160 is disposed on this opening. The bottom surface of the liquid absorber 170 (the surface opposite to the first surface 170a) is in close contact with the filter 160, and the liquid held in the liquid absorber 170 is supplied to the liquid channel 141 via the filter 160. The liquid channel 141 communicates with the printing element of the printing element substrate 150.

[0023] Multiple ribs 184 are provided on the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180 on the storage portion 140 side. Each of the ribs 184 has a plate shape and is attached at right angles to the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. With the opening 140a of the storage portion 140 covered by the cover member 180, the ribs 184 contact a first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. More specifically, each of the ribs 184 has a contact surface 184a that contacts the first surface 170a. The liquid absorber 170 is pressed against the bottom surface of the storage portion 140 (e.g., towards the filter 160) by the ribs 184 and is stored in the internal space 186 of the storage portion 140. It is desirable that the ribs 184 be made of resin (e.g., engineering plastic). The ribs 184 may have shapes other than a plate shape.

[0024] A protrusion 185 is provided on the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. The protrusion 185 has, for example, a frustum shape, but is not limited thereto. The protrusion 185 is provided with an air vent 181 communicating with air. The air vent 181 is a through hole penetrating the cover member 180. The internal space 186 communicates with the air vent 181.

[0025] With the opening 140a of the storage section 140 covered by the cover member 180, the protrusion 185 does not contact the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. The protrusion 185 is provided in the central portion of the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. Ribs 184 are deployed on both sides of the protrusion 185.

[0026] The protruding portion 185 may be provided on the portion other than the central portion of the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180.

[0027] At least one first liquid retention path 10 is provided on each of the at least plurality of ribs 184 adjacent to the protrusion 185 (air vent 181). The first liquid retention path 10 extends from the contact surface 184a of the corresponding rib 184A toward the cover member 180. The first liquid retention path 10 is configured to retain liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 (see...). Figure 6A The structure of the first liquid retention path 10 is an example of a capillary structure that absorbs the liquid 200 that has seeped out from the first surface 170a through capillary action.

[0028] The first liquid retention path 10 will be described in detail below.

[0029] Figures 4A to 4D An example of the rib 184 of the cover member 180 is schematically illustrated. Figure 4A This is a perspective view of the exterior of the cover component 180 shown in the figure. Figure 4B It is a schematic diagram along Figure 4A The cross-sectional view of the cover member 180 cut by line CC. Figure 4C This is a schematic plan view showing the state of the cover member 180 as seen from the inner surface 180a side. Figure 4D This is a magnified view of each rib (184A).

[0030] like Figures 4A to 4C As shown, a plurality of groove-like channels 1841 serving as the first liquid retention path 10 are provided on the side surface of each of two ribs 184A deployed on both sides of the air vent 181. The groove-like channels 1841 are arranged side-by-side parallel to each other. Figures 4B to 4D In this context, the grooved channel 1841 is also indicated by reference numeral 10, which indicates the first liquid holding path 10. For example... Figure 4DAs shown, each of the grooved channels 1841 has an end in the depth direction (X direction) and has a rectangular cross-section. The grooved channels 1841 can be formed when the cover member 180 is molded using resin. Each of the grooved channels 1841 extends in a direction parallel to the short side of the corresponding rib 184A (Z direction). Each of the grooved channels 1841 has a width w1 and a depth d1.

[0031] The width w1 is the length in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the grooved channel 1841 and parallel to the side surface of the corresponding rib 184A. The depth d1 is the length in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the grooved channel 1841 and perpendicular to the side surface of the corresponding rib 184A.

[0032] like Figure 4C As shown, each rib 184A has a first side surface 184A-1 located on the side closer to the air vent 181 and a second side surface 184A-2 located on the opposite side of the first side surface 184A-1. In this exemplary embodiment, a grooved channel 1841 is provided on the first side surface 184A-1 of each rib 184A. One end of each of the grooved channels 1841 opens to the contact surface 184a of the corresponding rib 184A.

[0033] The grooved channels 1841 are formed to retain the liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. When ink, widely used in inkjet printing devices, is used as the liquid, the ink viscosity is, for example, 1.0 to 3.0 [mPa·s], and the surface tension is, for example, 30 to 40 [mN / m]. Each of the grooved channels 1841 is formed such that a capillary effect is generated for the ink. Each of the grooved channels 1841 has a width w1 ranging from 0.2 to 1.0 mm and a depth d1 ranging from 0.2 to 1.0 mm. In order to retain the ink and effectively generate capillary force (the force for generating capillary action) on the retained ink, it is desirable that the relationship between the width w1 and the depth d1 of each of the grooved channels 1841 satisfies the condition w1 > d1.

[0034] Next, the operational effects of the liquid storage container 100 according to this exemplary embodiment will be described. The operational effects will be described by comparison with a liquid storage container according to a comparative example that does not have the grooved channel 1841.

[0035] The liquid storage container according to the comparative example has the same structure as the liquid storage container 100 according to this exemplary embodiment, except that the liquid storage container does not have the grooved channel 1841. When the orientation of the liquid storage container changes, the liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 moves within the liquid storage container.

[0036] Figures 5A to 5D The illustration schematically depicts the movement of liquid near the air vent 181 within the liquid storage container according to the comparative example as the liquid storage container is rotated once. Figures 5A to 5D Each diagram illustrates the relationship with Figure 3 The portion of the liquid storage container 100 enclosed by the dotted line B in the diagram corresponds to the portion without the grooved channel 1841 (first liquid holding path 10) . Figure 5A The illustration shows the cover component with its 180-degree face upwards. Figure 5B The illustration shows the cover component with its 180-degree side facing outwards. Figure 5C The illustration shows the cover component with its 180-degree face down. Figure 5D The illustration shows the cover component 180 in relation to... Figure 5B The direction in the middle is opposite to the direction above, facing to the side.

[0037] In the liquid storage container, the void portion of the liquid absorber 170 can expand during pressure fluctuations in the internal space 186, thereby reducing the liquid retention force of the liquid absorber 170. Furthermore, the pressing force of the ribs 184 on the liquid absorber 170 can be increased due to dimensional changes that occur when the joint between the cover member 180 and the opening 140a of the storage portion 140 is processed. As a result, in Figure 5A In the state shown (with the cover member 180 facing upward), liquid 200 seeps out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 near the contact surface 184a of the rib 184A.

[0038] When the orientation of the liquid storage container changes from Figure 5A The state shown (cover member 180 face up) changes to Figure 5B In the state shown (with the cover member 180 facing the side), the liquid 200 moves toward the cover member 180 on both side surfaces of the rib 184A.

[0039] When the orientation of the liquid storage container changes from Figure 5B The state shown (cover member 180 facing the side) is further changed to Figure 5C In the state shown (cover member 180 facing down), the liquid 200 moves along the side surface of the rib 184A and reaches the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. Thereafter, the liquid 200 moves along the inner surface 180a and reaches the protrusion 185. When the orientation of the liquid storage container changes from... Figure 5C The state shown (cover member 180 face down) is further changed to Figure 5D In the state shown (with the cover member 180 facing the side), the liquid 200 moves along one of the side surfaces of the protrusion 185 toward the air vent 181.

[0040] When Figures 5A to 5D As shown, when the orientation of the liquid storage container according to the comparative example is repeatedly changed, such as... Figure 5D As indicated by the arrow, liquid 200 leaks to the outside through air vent 181.

[0041] The following description will be given of how the liquid in the liquid storage container 100 according to this exemplary embodiment moves as the orientation of the liquid storage container 100 changes.

[0042] Figures 6A to 6D The illustration schematically depicts the state of the liquid near the air vent 181 after the liquid storage container 100 has been rotated once. Figures 5A to 5D The same as in the middle, Figures 6A to 6D Each diagram illustrates the relationship with Figure 3 The portion corresponding to the liquid storage container 100 enclosed by the dashed line B in the diagram. Figure 6A The illustration shows the cover component with its 180-degree face upwards.

[0043] Figure 6B The illustration shows the cover component with its 180-degree side facing outwards. Figure 6C The illustration shows the cover component with its 180-degree face down. Figure 6D The illustration shows the cover component 180 in relation to... Figure 6B The direction in the middle is opposite to the direction above, facing to the side.

[0044] In the liquid storage container 100, a groove-like channel 1841 (first liquid holding path 10) provided on the first side surface 184A-1 of the rib 184A retains the liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. Therefore, even in the orientation of the liquid storage container 100 as shown in the figure, the liquid 200 is retained. Figures 6A to 6D When the change is shown, it also prevents the liquid 200 from moving along the ribs 184A and reaching the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. As a result, even when... Figures 6A to 6D When the repeated posture is changed as shown, it also prevents the liquid 200 from leaking to the outside through the air vent 181.

[0045] In the liquid storage container 100 according to this exemplary embodiment, it is desirable that each of the first liquid retention paths 10 (groove-shaped channels 1841) is formed such that the portion closer to the cap member 180 has a stronger capillary force. In this way, the liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 can be reliably retained by the entire first liquid retention path 10 (groove-shaped channels 1841).

[0046] Key parameters related to capillary action include the density of the liquid 200, the surface tension of the liquid 200, the contact angle of the liquid 200 relative to the solid (the inner surface of the first liquid holding path 10), and the width w1 of the first liquid holding path 10. The capillary force is inversely proportional to the width w1 of the first liquid holding path 10. Therefore, in the first liquid holding path 10 (groove-shaped channel 1841), the portion with a smaller width w1 exhibits a stronger capillary force. Based on this principle, in the first liquid holding path 10 (groove-shaped channel 1841), the portion closer to the cover member 180 is formed with a smaller width w1 (while the depth d1 remains constant). In this way, the first liquid holding path 10 can be formed such that the portion closer to the cover member 180 has a stronger capillary force. In a structure where the portion closer to the cover member 180 is formed with a smaller width w1, it is desirable that each portion always satisfies the condition w1 > d1.

[0047] In another approach, the capillary force can be altered by performing a surface treatment and varying the wettability of the inner surface of the first liquid retention path 10 based on the portion. Wettability indicates how easily the solid (the inner surface of the first liquid retention path 10) becomes wetted. As the contact angle of the liquid 200 decreases, the solid (the inner surface of the first liquid retention path 10) becomes more wettable, thereby increasing the capillary force. Based on this principle, the portion of the first liquid retention path 10 closer to the cover member 180 is formed to have higher wettability. In this way, the first liquid retention path 10 can be formed such that the portion closer to the cover member 180 has a stronger capillary force. In this case, it is also desirable that each portion always satisfies the condition w1 > d1.

[0048] Furthermore, it is desirable that the other end of each of the grooved channels 1841 does not reach the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. In other words, it is desirable that the other end of each of the grooved channels 1841 terminates between the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180 and the corresponding contact surface 184a. In this way, liquid held in the grooved channels 1841 is prevented from moving to the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180.

[0049] By utilizing the structure in which each rib 184A provides a first liquid retention path 10 (groove-like channel 1841), the liquid storage container 100 can hold more liquid than a conventional ink canister. As a result, even when the amount of liquid injected into the liquid absorber 170 increases, leakage of liquid to the outside via the air vent 181 is prevented.

[0050] In this exemplary embodiment, the grooved channel 1841 is provided on the first side surface 184A-1 of each rib 184A, but may be formed on a surface other than the first side surface 184A-1.

[0051] A grooved channel 1841 can be provided on both the first side surface 184A-1 and the second side surface 184A-2 of each rib 184A. In this way, the grooved channel 1841 can retain more liquid and can more reliably prevent liquid leakage from the air vent 181.

[0052] Furthermore, while the rib 184A adjacent to the protrusion 185 is provided with a grooved channel 1841, other ribs 184 besides rib 184A may also be provided with grooved channels 1841. In this way, liquid leakage from the air vent 181 can be more reliably prevented.

[0053] The liquid storage container according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is the same as the liquid storage container according to the first exemplary embodiment, except that the first liquid retention path 10 according to the second exemplary embodiment has a different structure.

[0054] Figures 7A to 7C An example of a rib 184 of a cover member 180 used in a liquid storage container according to this exemplary embodiment is schematically illustrated. Figure 7A This is a cross-sectional view of the cover component 180 and it is illustrated with... Figure 4B The corresponding cross-section. Figure 7B This is a schematic plan view illustrating the state of the cover member 180 as seen from the inner surface 180a side, and is consistent with... Figure 4C correspond. Figure 7C This is a magnified view of each rib (184A).

[0055] like Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, a plurality of slit-like channels 1842 serving as the first liquid retention path 10 are provided in each of two ribs 184A deployed on both sides of the air vent 181. The slit-like channels 1842 are arranged side-by-side parallel to each other. Figures 7A to 7CIn this context, the slit-like channel 1842 is also indicated by reference numeral 10, which indicates the first liquid holding path 10. For example... Figure 7C As shown, each of the slit-like channels 1842 is a slit that penetrates the corresponding rib 184A in the thickness direction (X direction). The slit-like channels 1842 can be formed when the cover member 180 is molded using resin. Each of the slit-like channels 1842 extends from the contact surface 184a of the corresponding rib 184A toward the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. One end of each of the slit-like channels 1842 opens to the contact surface 184a of the corresponding rib 184A. Each of the slit-like channels 1842 has a width w2 and a depth d2. The width w2 is the length in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the slit-like channel 1842 and parallel to the side surface of the corresponding rib 184A. The depth d2 is the length in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the slit-like channel 1842 and perpendicular to the side surface of the corresponding rib 184A.

[0056] The depth d2 is the same as the thickness of each rib 184A.

[0057] Similar to the grooved channel 1841, the slit channel 1842 is also capable of retaining the liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. Each of the slit channels 1842 is preferably shaped such that capillary forces act on the retained liquid, and its width w2 is in the range of 0.2 to 1.0 mm. For capillary forces to act on the retained liquid, it is desirable that the relationship between the width w2 and the depth d2 of each of the slit channels 1842 satisfies the condition w2 > d2. The depth d2 is the same as the thickness of each rib 184A.

[0058] Since the slit-shaped channel 1842 retains the liquid 200 that has seeped out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170, the liquid storage container according to this exemplary embodiment exhibits an operational effect similar to that according to the first exemplary embodiment.

[0059] The slit-shaped channel 1842 can hold more liquid than the groove-shaped channel 1841. Therefore, liquid leakage from the air vent 181 can be prevented more reliably.

[0060] In the liquid storage container according to this exemplary embodiment, it is desirable that each of the slit-shaped channels 1842 is formed such that the portion closer to the cap member 180 has a stronger capillary force. In this way, the liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 can be reliably retained by the entirety of the slit-shaped channels 1842.

[0061] For example, in each of the slit channels 1842, the portion closer to the cover member 180 is formed to have a smaller width w2, or the wettability of the portion closer to the cover member 180 is increased by surface treatment. In this way, the slit channels 1842 can each be formed such that the portion closer to the cover member 180 has a stronger capillary force. In either case, it is desirable that each portion always satisfies the condition w2 > d2.

[0062] Furthermore, it is desirable that the other end of each of the slit channels 1842 does not reach the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. In other words, it is desirable that the other end of each of the slit channels 1842 terminates between the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180 and the corresponding contact surface 184a. In this way, liquid held in the slit channels 1842 is prevented from moving to the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180.

[0063] In this exemplary embodiment, the rib 184A adjacent to the protrusion 185 is provided with a slit-like channel 1842, but other ribs 184 besides rib 184A may also be provided with slit-like channels 1842. In this way, liquid leakage from the air vent 181 can be prevented more reliably.

[0064] The liquid storage container according to the third exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is the same as the liquid storage container according to the first exemplary embodiment, except that the liquid storage container includes, in addition to the first liquid holding path 10, at least one second liquid holding path 20 extending in a direction intersecting the first liquid holding path 10. The second liquid holding path 20 is provided on each rib 184A and communicates with the first liquid holding path 10. The second liquid holding path 20 is configured to hold liquid flowing out from the first liquid holding path 10. The structure of the second liquid holding path 20 is an example of a capillary structure that absorbs liquid through capillary action.

[0065] Figure 8A and Figure 8B An example of a rib 184 of a cover member 180 used in a liquid storage container according to this exemplary embodiment is schematically illustrated. Figure 8A This is a cross-sectional view of the cover component 180 and it is illustrated with... Figure 4B The corresponding cross-section. Figure 8B This is a schematic plan view illustrating the state of the cover member 180 as seen from the inner surface 180a side, and is consistent with... Figure 4C correspond.

[0066] refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8BMultiple first grooved channels 1843 are provided side-by-side on two ribs 184A deployed on both sides of the air vent 181, and serve as a first liquid retention path 10. Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the text, the first grooved channel 1843 is also indicated by reference numeral 10, which indicates the first liquid holding path 10. The first grooved channel 1843 has a... Figures 4B to 4D The grooved channel 1841 shown has the same structure and is formed on the first side surface 184A-1 of each rib 184A. At least one second grooved channel 1844 is also formed on the first side surface 184A-1 of each rib 184A as a second liquid retention path 20. Figure 8A and Figure 8B In this embodiment, the second grooved channel 1844 is also indicated by reference numeral 20, which indicates the second liquid retention path 20. The second grooved channel 1844 extends in a direction that intersects (or is perpendicular to) the first grooved channel 1843. In this exemplary embodiment, the second grooved channel 1844 is deployed closer to the cover member 180 than the first grooved channel 1843. The second grooved channel 1844 connects to the end of the first grooved channel 1843. The second grooved channel 1844 retains the liquid flowing out from the first grooved channel 1843. Similar to the case of the grooved channel 1841, the first grooved channel 1843 and the second grooved channel 1844 can be formed when the cover member 180 is molded using resin.

[0067] Since the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid holding path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid holding path 20) retain the liquid 200 that has seeped out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170, the liquid storage container according to this exemplary embodiment exhibits an operational effect similar to that according to the first exemplary embodiment.

[0068] Furthermore, the amount of liquid held by the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid holding path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid holding path 20) is greater than the amount of liquid held by the grooved channel 1841 (first liquid holding path 10) according to the first exemplary embodiment. Therefore, even when the amount of liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 increases, leakage of liquid 200 from the air vent 181 to the outside is reliably prevented.

[0069] In the liquid storage container according to this exemplary embodiment, it is desirable that the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) are each formed such that the portion closer to the cap member 180 has a stronger capillary force. More specifically, the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) is formed to have a stronger capillary force than the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10). More specifically, the width (length in the Z direction) of the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) is smaller than the width (length in the Y direction) of each of the first grooved channels 1843 (first liquid retention path 10). The depth of each of the first grooved channels 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the depth of the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) are constant. In this way, the liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 can be reliably retained by the entirety of the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20). As in the first exemplary embodiment, each of the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) can be configured such that the portion closer to the cap member 180 has a stronger capillary force. It is also desirable that the width of each of the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) is always greater than its depth.

[0070] The second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) can be formed to intersect with the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10). More specifically, the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) connects to the portion of the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) other than its end. Using this structure, liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 can also be reliably retained.

[0071] In the above case, it is also desirable that the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) are each formed such that the portion closer to the cover member 180 has a stronger capillary force. More specifically, the capillary force generated at the portion of each of the first grooved channels 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) closer to the corresponding contact surface 184a than the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) is defined as F1. The capillary force generated at the portion of each of the first grooved channels 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) closer to the cover member 180 than the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) is defined as F2. The capillary force generated at the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) is defined as F3. It is desired that the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) satisfy the relationship F1 < F3 < F2. In this way, the liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 can be reliably retained by the entirety of the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20).

[0072] The aforementioned relationship F1 < F3 < F2 can be achieved by varying the width or wettability of each of the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) depending on the portion.

[0073] For example, assuming the width of the portion generating capillary force F1 is w11, the width of the portion generating capillary force F2 is w12, and the width of the portion generating capillary force F3 is w13, the relationship F1 < F3 < F2 can be achieved when the relationship w11 > w13 > w12 is satisfied. In this case, it is also desirable that the width of each of the first grooved channels 1843 and the second grooved channel 1844 in each portion is always greater than the depth. Although the depth of each of the first grooved channels 1843 (first liquid holding path 10) and the depth of the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid holding path 20) are the same as each other, this exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. The depth can be appropriately changed depending on the channel width or capillary force.

[0074] Additionally, multiple second grooved channels 1844 (second liquid holding path 20) can be provided parallel to each other. In this way, the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid holding path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid holding path 20) can hold more liquid.

[0075] In this exemplary embodiment, a first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and a second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) are provided on the first side surface 184A-1 of each rib 184A, but the surface on which these grooved channels are arranged is not limited to the first side surface 184A-1. The first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) can be provided on both the first side surface 184A-1 and the second side surface 184-2 of each rib 184A. In this way, the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) can retain more liquid and can more reliably prevent liquid leakage from the air vent 181.

[0076] Furthermore, although the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) are provided on the rib 184A adjacent to the protrusion 185, the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) can be arranged on other ribs 184. In addition to rib 184A, the first grooved channel 1843 (first liquid retention path 10) and the second grooved channel 1844 (second liquid retention path 20) can also be suitably formed on other ribs 184. In this way, liquid leakage from the air vent 181 can be prevented more reliably.

[0077] The first to third exemplary embodiments described above are examples of exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, and the configurations described in the first to third exemplary embodiments can be appropriately modified. For example, grooved channels 1841, 1843, and 1844 and slit channel 1842 can be appropriately combined, as long as the liquid can be held by capillary action. This increases design flexibility while preventing liquid from entering the air vent 181.

[0078] For example, in the third exemplary embodiment described above, the first groove-shaped channel 1843 serving as the first liquid holding path 10 can be made of Figures 7A to 7C The slit-like channel 1842 shown is replaced. In this case, a second groove-like channel 1844, serving as a second liquid retention path 20, can be provided on one or both of the first side surface 184A-1 and the second side surface 184A-2. The second groove-like channel 1844 is formed to retain liquid flowing out from the slit-like channel 1842. In this way, more liquid can be retained.

[0079] Furthermore, in the third exemplary embodiment, the second grooved channel 1844, which serves as the second liquid holding path 20, can be... Figures 7A to 7C The slit-like channel 1842 shown is replaced. In other words, the slit-like channel 1842 can be provided as a second liquid retention path 20. The slit-like channel 1842 is formed to retain liquid flowing out from the first groove-like channel 1843. In this way, more liquid can be retained.

[0080] To increase the amount of liquid that can be held, the shape of the first liquid holding path 10 can be appropriately modified.

[0081] Figure 9 schematically illustrated Figures 4A to 4D The rib 184 of the cover member 180 shown is a variation. This variation includes a grooved channel 1841 formed by a first grooved channel 1841a, a second grooved channel 1841b, and a third grooved channel 1841c, serving as a first liquid retention path 10.

[0082] The first grooved channel 1841a has an opening to one end of the contact surface 184a of the corresponding rib 184A and extends toward the cover member 180 (extending in the Z direction). The second grooved channel 1841b is coupled to the other end of the first grooved channel 1841a and extends in a direction intersecting the first grooved channel 1841a (Y direction). The third grooved channel 1841c has one end coupled to the second grooved channel 1841b and extends toward the cover member 180 (extending in the Z direction). Liquid 200 that has seeped from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 can be retained by the entirety of the first grooved channel 1841a, the second grooved channel 1841b, and the third grooved channel 1841c. The width of the second grooved channel 1841b is greater than the width of each of the first grooved channel 1841a and the third grooved channel 1841c. This structure can retain more liquid than... Figures 4A to 4D The liquid shown has many structures.

[0083] According to this variation, it is desirable that the other end of the third grooved channel 1841c does not reach the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. In other words, it is desirable that the other end of the third grooved channel 1841c terminates between the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180 and the second grooved channel 1841b. In this way, liquid held in the third grooved channel 1841c can be prevented from moving to the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180.

[0084] Furthermore, assuming that the first grooved channel 1841a, the second grooved channel 1841b, and the third grooved channel 1841c have capillary forces F1, F2, and F3 respectively, it is desirable that the relationship F1 < F2 < F3 be satisfied. In this way, the liquid 200 can be reliably held by the entirety of the first grooved channel 1841a, the second grooved channel 1841b, and the third grooved channel 1841c.

[0085] The aforementioned relationship F1 < F2 < F3 can be achieved by changing the width or wettability of the first grooved channel 1841a, the second grooved channel 1841b, and the third grooved channel 1841c. For example, assume the width of the first grooved channel 1841a is w11, the width of the second grooved channel 1841b is w12, and the width of the third grooved channel 1841c is w13. Widths w11 and w13 are lengths in the Y direction, and width w12 is a length in the Z direction. In this case, the relationship F1 < F2 < F3 can be achieved by satisfying the relationship w11 > w12 > w13. It is desirable that the width of the first grooved channel 1841a, the second grooved channel 1841b, and the third grooved channel 1841c is always greater than its depth. Although the first grooved channel 1841a, the second grooved channel 1841b, and the third grooved channel 1841c have the same depth, this variation is not limited thereto. The channel depth can be appropriately varied depending on the channel width and capillary force.

[0086] For each of the grooved channels 1841, multiple second grooved channels 1841b can be provided. In this way, each of the grooved channels 1841 can hold more liquid.

[0087] This variation can be applied to either the second or third exemplary embodiment.

[0088] For example, in a second exemplary embodiment, a second grooved channel 1841b is provided on one or each of the first side surface 184A-1 and the second side surface 184A-2 of each rib 184A. In this case, the second grooved channel 1841b is formed to retain liquid flowing out from each of the slit-like channels 1842. In this way, more liquid can be retained.

[0089] According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, even when the amount of injected liquid increases, leakage of liquid from the air vent to the outside is prevented.

[0090] While this disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the appended claims is to be given the broadest interpretation in order to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. A liquid storage container, comprising: A liquid absorber configured to absorb and retain liquid; The storage section stores the liquid absorber and has an opening facing a first surface of the liquid absorber; A cover member configured to cover an opening in the storage section; Multiple ribs are provided on the inner surface of the cover member positioned closer to the storage portion, wherein the multiple ribs are in contact with a first surface of the liquid absorbent when the opening portion is covered by the cover member; An air vent, provided in the cover member, allows the interior space of the storage portion to communicate with the air; and At least one first liquid retention path is provided on at least one of the plurality of ribs adjacent to the air vent, and extends from the contact surface of the at least one rib that contacts the first surface toward the cover member. The at least one first liquid retention path is configured to retain liquid that has seeped from the first surface of the liquid absorber, and The at least one first liquid retention path has a stronger capillary force at a portion closer to the cap member.

2. The liquid storage container of claim 1, wherein the at least one first liquid holding path is configured such that the channel width of the at least one first liquid holding path is greater than the channel depth of the at least one first liquid holding path.

3. The liquid storage container of claim 1, wherein the at least one first liquid retention path has a narrower width at a portion closer to the cover member.

4. The liquid storage container of claim 1, wherein the second end of the at least one first liquid retention path terminates between the inner surface of the cover member and the contact surface of the at least one rib.

5. The liquid storage container according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the at least one first liquid retention path is a groove-like channel provided on the side surface of the at least one rib, and a first end of the groove-like channel opens to the contact surface of the at least one rib.

6. The liquid storage container according to claim 5, The at least one rib has a first side surface closer to the air vent and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface. The grooved channel is provided on at least the first side surface.

7. The liquid storage container according to claim 5, The grooved channel includes: A first groove-shaped channel, the first groove-shaped channel having a first end opening to the contact surface of the at least one rib, and extending toward the cover member, A second grooved channel, coupled to a second end of the first grooved channel, and extending in a direction intersecting the first grooved channel, and A third grooved channel, the third grooved channel having a first end coupled to the second grooved channel and extending toward the cover member, and The first grooved channel, the second grooved channel, and the third grooved channel are each configured to hold liquid.

8. The liquid storage container according to claim 7, wherein, Assuming that the first grooved channel, the second grooved channel, and the third grooved channel have capillary forces F1, F2, and F3 respectively, then the relationship F1 < F2 < F3 is satisfied.

9. The liquid storage container according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the at least one first liquid retention path is a slit-like channel penetrating the at least one rib in the thickness direction of the at least one rib, and a first end of the slit-like channel opens to the contact surface of the at least one rib.

10. The liquid storage container according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the at least one first liquid retention path is provided in a plurality of parallel paths.

11. The liquid storage container according to any one of claims 1-4, further comprising at least one second liquid retention path, said at least one second liquid retention path being provided on said at least one rib, communicating with said at least one first liquid retention path, and extending in a direction intersecting said at least one first liquid retention path. The at least one second liquid holding path is configured to hold liquid flowing out from the at least one first liquid holding path.

12. The liquid storage container of claim 11, wherein the end of the at least one first liquid retention path closer to the cover member is coupled to the at least one second liquid retention path.

13. The liquid storage container of claim 12, wherein the at least one second liquid retention path is stronger in capillary force than the at least one first liquid retention path.

14. The liquid storage container of claim 13, wherein the at least one second liquid holding path is narrower in width than the at least one first liquid holding path.

15. The liquid storage container of claim 11, wherein the at least one second liquid retention path is a groove-like channel provided on the side surface of the at least one rib.

16. The liquid storage container according to any one of claims 1-4, further comprising at least one second liquid retention path, said at least one second liquid retention path being provided on said at least one rib, communicating with said at least one first liquid retention path, and extending in a direction intersecting said at least one first liquid retention path. The at least one first liquid retention path is a first groove-like channel provided on the side surface of the at least one rib. The at least one second liquid retention path is a second groove-like channel provided on the side surface of the at least one rib, and The first grooved channel has a first end that opens to the contact surface of the at least one rib and a second end that is coupled to the second grooved channel.

17. The liquid storage container according to any one of claims 1-4, further comprising at least one second liquid retention path, said at least one second liquid retention path being provided on said at least one rib, communicating with said at least one first liquid retention path, and extending in a direction intersecting said at least one first liquid retention path. The at least one first liquid retention path is a slit-like channel penetrating the at least one rib in the thickness direction of the at least one rib. The at least one second liquid retention path is a groove-like channel provided on the side surface of the at least one rib, and The slit-like channel has a first end that opens to the contact surface of the at least one rib and a second end that is coupled to the groove-like channel.

18. The liquid storage container according to any one of claims 1-4, further comprising at least one second liquid retention path, said at least one second liquid retention path being provided on said at least one rib, communicating with said at least one first liquid retention path, and extending in a direction intersecting said at least one first liquid retention path. The at least one first liquid retention path is a groove-like channel provided on the side surface of the at least one rib. The at least one second liquid retention path is a slit-like channel penetrating the at least one rib in the thickness direction of the at least one rib, and The grooved channel has a first end that opens to the contact surface of the at least one rib and a second end that is coupled to the slit-like channel.

19. A liquid storage container, comprising: A liquid absorber configured to absorb and retain liquid; The storage section stores the liquid absorber and has an opening facing a first surface of the liquid absorber; A cover member configured to cover an opening in the storage section; Multiple ribs are provided on the inner surface of the cover member, positioned closer to the storage portion, wherein the multiple ribs contact a first surface of the liquid absorbent when the opening is covered by the cover member; and An air vent is provided in the cover member, allowing the interior space of the storage section to communicate with the air. At least one of the plurality of ribs adjacent to the air vent has a capillary structure configured to absorb liquid that has seeped from the first surface of the liquid absorber. The capillary structure has a stronger capillary force in the portion closer to the cover member.

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