Printing device and liquid container

Abstract

The present application relates to a printing device and a liquid container. The printing device includes the liquid container. The liquid container includes a storage portion configured to store a liquid to be supplied to a discharge head that discharges the liquid, a first passage configured to be inserted into a refill bottle configured to refill the storage portion with the liquid, and communicate with the refill bottle, and a second passage between the first passage and the storage portion, the second passage including a first shaped portion at an end portion on the first passage side, the first shaped portion having a cross-sectional shape common to a portion of a cross-sectional shape of the first passage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a printing device and a liquid container. Background Technology

[0002] A printing apparatus is known that discharges ink stored in an ink tank from a printhead onto a printing medium to print an image. When the remaining ink level in the ink tank decreases, the user replenishes the ink. If the replenishment is performed quickly, user convenience is improved. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-69717 discloses an ink tank including channels for ink flow and channels for air removal. Air-liquid exchange occurs between the ink tank and a refill bottle through these two channels.

[0003] However, the structure disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-69717 has room for improvement in terms of the flow rate of ink from the refill bottle to the ink canister. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a technique for increasing the inflow rate of liquid from a replenishment bottle to a liquid container.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, a printing apparatus is provided, the printing apparatus comprising a liquid container, wherein the liquid container comprises: a storage section configured to store liquid to be supplied to a discharge head for discharging the liquid; a first channel configured to be inserted into and communicate with a replenishment bottle configured to replenish the liquid to the storage section; and a second channel between the first channel and the storage section, the second channel including a first shaped portion at an end on the side of the first channel having a cross-sectional shape shared with a portion of the cross-sectional shape of the first channel.

[0006] According to another aspect of the present invention, a liquid container is provided, the liquid container comprising: a storage section configured to store liquid to be supplied to a discharge head for discharging the liquid; a first channel inserted into and communicating with a replenishment bottle configured to replenish the liquid into the storage section; and a second channel located between the first channel and the storage section, and including a first shaped portion at an end on the side of the first channel having a cross-sectional shape shared with a portion of the cross-sectional shape of the first channel.

[0007] Other features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0009] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of the printing apparatus shown;

[0010] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is an exploded perspective view of the ink can;

[0011] Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is a side view of the ink can;

[0012] Figure 5A and Figure 5B This is a partial perspective view of the ink can;

[0013] Figure 6A It is along Figure 4B A cross-sectional view taken from line AA in the diagram;

[0014] Figure 6B It is along Figure 4B A cross-sectional view taken from line BB in the middle;

[0015] Figure 7 It is along Figure 4B A cross-sectional view taken from line CC in the diagram;

[0016] Figure 8 This is an instruction diagram showing how to use the refill bottle;

[0017] Figures 9A to 9C This is an instruction diagram showing how to use the refill bottle;

[0018] Figures 10A to 10C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the ink flow during ink replenishment;

[0019] Figures 11A to 11C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the ink flow during ink replenishment;

[0020] Figures 12A to 12C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the ink flow during ink replenishment; and

[0021] Figures 13A to 13C This is a schematic diagram showing the ink flow during ink replenishment. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, the invention is not limited to claiming all such features, and multiple such features can be combined as needed. Furthermore, in the drawings, the same or similar constructions are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0023] <First Embodiment>

[0024] 1. Overview of the Printing Device

[0025] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the printing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the front.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the construction of a portion of the printing apparatus 1 when viewed from the rear. The printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is an inkjet printing apparatus that prints on a printing medium by dispensing ink. In the drawings, arrows X, Y, and Z indicate directions in which they intersect each other, and in this embodiment, they are orthogonal to each other. Arrow Z indicates the vertical direction (direction of gravity). The X direction is the width direction of the printing apparatus 1 (left-right direction or the width direction of the printing medium). The Y direction is the depth direction of the printing apparatus 1 (front-back direction).

[0027] It should be noted that "printing" includes not only the formation of important information such as characters and graphics, but also the formation of images, graphics, patterns, etc., on a broadly defined printing medium, regardless of the importance of the information or whether the information is visually perceptible to people. It also includes processing the printing medium. Furthermore, although this embodiment assumes sheet paper as the "printing medium," cloth, plastic film, etc., can also be used.

[0028] The printing apparatus 1 includes a transport roller 11 extending in the X direction. The transport roller 11 transports sheet-like printing media 100 in the Y direction (sub-scanning direction). A transport motor (not shown) that serves as the drive source for the transport roller rotates the transport roller 11. As the transport roller 11 rotates, the printing media 100 is transported onto the pressure plate 12.

[0029] Ink cans 2Bk, 2C, 2M, and 2Y (hereinafter collectively referred to as ink cans 2 without distinction) are liquid containers for storing liquid ink. In this embodiment, ink can 2 is a fixed container fixed in the printing device 1. When the remaining ink level decreases, the user can replenish ink into ink can 2 using the refill bottle 5 (described below) without removing ink can 2 from the printing device 1.

[0030] Different types of ink are stored in four ink containers 2. In this embodiment, different colors of ink are stored in ink containers 2. More specifically, black ink is stored in ink container 2Bk, cyan ink in ink container 2C, magenta ink in ink container 2M, and yellow ink in ink container 2Y. It should be noted that the ink types are not limited to the four types shown in this embodiment; one ink type or multiple types other than the four can be used. The number of ink containers 2 only needs to be equal to or greater than the number of ink types.

[0031] The printing apparatus 1 includes a carriage 14. The carriage 14 is a support member that supports printheads 13A and 13B. According to this embodiment, the carriage 14 can move along the X direction (main scanning direction) together with the printheads 13A and 13B mounted thereon. Printheads 13A and 13B perform printing by discharging ink onto the printing medium 100. Printhead 13A discharges cyan ink, magenta ink, and yellow ink supplied from ink tanks 2C, 2M, and 2Y via tubes 16. Printhead 13B discharges black ink supplied from ink tank 2Bk via tubes 16. Tubes 16 are provided for each ink type, and in this embodiment, the number of tubes 16 is four.

[0032] The lower surface of each of printheads 13A and 13B includes a discharge surface having a plurality of nozzles for discharging ink. The discharge surface is arranged to face the pressure plate 12. For example, each nozzle is provided with an electrothermal transducer (heater). When the electrothermal transducer is energized, it is heated to cause the ink to foam, and the ink is discharged using the foaming energy. A structure utilizing piezoelectric elements to discharge ink can be used instead of an electrothermal transducer.

[0033] The carriage 14 is guided by the guide member 15 and reciprocates in the X direction by the driving force of a drive unit (not shown). For example, the drive unit includes a drive wheel and a driven wheel arranged separately in the X direction, an annular belt wound around the wheel, and a carriage motor as a drive source to rotate the drive wheel. The carriage 14 is connected to the annular belt. As the annular belt travels, the carriage 14 moves in the X direction.

[0034] During the movement of the carriage 14, ink is discharged from each of the printheads 13A and 13B onto the printing medium 100 on the pressure plate 12, thereby printing an image. This operation is sometimes referred to as print scanning. The printing operation is performed by alternately repeating the printing medium delivery operation of the transport roller 11 and the print scanning.

[0035] As described above, the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is a serial inkjet printing apparatus in which printheads 13A and 13B are mounted on a carriage 14 that reciprocates in the X direction. However, the present invention can also be applied to other printing apparatuses, such as inkjet printing apparatuses including so-called full-line printheads, wherein a plurality of nozzles configured to discharge ink are provided in a region corresponding to the width of the printing medium.

[0036] 2. Ink Jar

[0037] <2-1. Overview>

[0038] Ink cans 2C, 2M, and 2Y are containers with the same structure. Ink can 2Bk is a container with a structure basically the same as ink cans 2C, 2M, and 2Y, but with a larger capacity. Therefore, ink can 2Bk is a container with a width greater than ink cans 2C, 2M, and 2Y in the X direction. Ink can 2Bk is located at the left end of the front of the printing unit 1. Ink can 2Bk is made of a translucent material, allowing the user to visually identify the remaining amount of ink. Ink cans 2C to 2Y are arranged side by side along the Y direction at the right end of the front of the printing unit 1. Ink cans 2C to 2Y are also made of a translucent material, allowing the user to visually identify the remaining amount of ink.

[0039] The structure of ink can 2 will be described below using ink can 2C as an example. Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is an exploded perspective view of the ink can 2C. Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is a side view of the ink can 2C. Figure 4A Side 21d is shown, while Figure 4B Side 21c is shown.

[0040] The ink can 2C has an overall L-shaped shape. The ink can 2C includes a main body 21 and left and right sealing members 20a and 20b. The container body 21 is a hollow structure made of resin, comprising a top 21a, a front portion 21b, and left and right side portions 21c and 21d. According to this embodiment, the sealing members 20a and 20b are flexible films and are fixed to the sides 21c and 21d of the main body 21 by adhesive bonding or welding. The sealing members 20a and 20b cover and seal the openings and grooves of the sides 21c and 21d of the main body 21. All of the main body 21 and the sealing members 20a and 20b are translucent components. These components can be colored transparent or colorless transparent.

[0041] The needle 22 protrudes upward from the top 21a of the ink reservoir 2C. The needle 22 is a tubular member integrally formed with the body 21 and extending in the Z direction, forming a channel for injecting replenishing ink from the outside into the ink reservoir 2C. A removable cap 4 is attached to the distal end (upper end) of the needle 22.

[0042] A tubular outlet 26 is formed on the rear of the ink tank 2C. The outlet 26 is the outlet for the ink stored in the ink tank 2C and is a liquid outlet for allowing the ink to flow to the print head 13A. A tube 16 is connected to the outlet 26, and the ink stored in the ink tank 2C is supplied from the outlet 26 to the print head 13A through the tube 16.

[0043] A lower limit indicator 24b and an upper limit indicator 24a are formed on the front portion 21b. The lower limit indicator 24b approximately indicates the lower limit of the remaining amount of ink for ink replenishment timing, while the upper limit indicator 24a approximately indicates the upper limit when replenishing ink. The upper limit indicator 24a and the lower limit indicator 24b are formed by the shape of the body 21 (by forming a recess or a convex portion) or by printing a diagram.

[0044] A joining portion 23a is formed on the front portion 21b of the ink can 2C, and a joining portion 23b is formed on the rear portion. The joining portions 23a and 23b engage with a joining portion (not shown) formed on the housing (not shown) of the printing device 1, thereby fixing and positioning the ink can 2C.

[0045] The ink reservoir 2C includes an ink storage section 25 on its bottom side. The storage section 25 is defined by a space opening into the side portion 21d of the main body 21 and a sealing member 20b. The storage section 25 communicates with the needle 22 via channels 31 and 32. Channels 31 and 32 are defined by grooves opening into the side portion 21c of the main body 21 and a sealing member 20a. When the storage section 25 stores the maximum amount of ink, the outlet portion 26 is formed above the liquid surface of the ink.

[0046] The storage section 25 and the outlet section 26 are connected to other parts via a channel 29a. The channel 29a is defined by a groove that opens into the side section 21c of the main body 21 and a sealing member 20a. The ink stored in the storage section 25 is supplied to the printhead 13A via the channel 29a, the outlet section 26 and the tube 16.

[0047] An air vent 27 is formed in the front portion 21b (i.e., the front side of the ink tank 2C). The air vent 27 opens towards the front of the ink tank 2C in the Y direction. Since there is no upward opening, foreign objects are unlikely to close the air vent 27. The air vent 27 communicates with the storage section 25 via buffer chambers 28a to 28e and channels 29b to 29f. Even if the ink tank 2C is placed in a position different from that used in use, ink leakage from the storage section 25 through the air vent 27 is prevented.

[0048] Buffer chambers 28a and 28b are defined by a space opening into the side portion 21c of the main body 21 and a sealing member 20a. Buffer chambers 28c to 28e are defined by a space opening into the side portion 21d of the main body 21 and a sealing member 20b. Channel 29c is defined by a groove opening into the side portion 21d of the main body 21 and a sealing member 20b. Channels 29d to 29f are defined by grooves opening into the side portion 21c and a sealing member 20a.

[0049] One end of channel 29b opens into storage section 25, and the other opens into buffer chamber 28b. Storage section 25 and buffer chamber 28b are connected via channel 29b. One end of channel 29c opens into buffer chamber 28a, and the other opens into buffer chamber 28b. Buffer chamber 28a and buffer chamber 28b are connected via channel 29c. One end of channel 29d opens into buffer chamber 28a, and the other opens into buffer chamber 28c. Buffer chamber 28a and buffer chamber 28c are connected via channel 29d. One end of channel 29e opens into buffer chamber 28c, and the other opens into buffer chamber 28d. Buffer chamber 28c and buffer chamber 28d are connected via channel 29e. One end of channel 29f opens into buffer chamber 28d, and the other opens into buffer chamber 28e. Buffer chamber 28d and buffer chamber 28e are connected via channel 29f. The buffer chamber 28e is connected to the air vent 27.

[0050] If the printing unit 1 is placed in an orientation different from its intended use for an extended period and atmospheric pressure / temperature changes under these conditions, the expansion or contraction of air in the ink reservoir 2C should be considered. Using the case where the storage section 25 for storing ink holds the maximum amount of ink as an example, a mechanism to prevent ink leakage from the air vent 27 under these conditions will be described.

[0051] Assume the printing device 1 is positioned with sealing member 20a on the lower side and sealing member 20b on the upper side. The ink liquid surface is located below the channel 29b that connects the storage section 25 to the buffer chamber 28b. Since the interior of the ink tank 2C is connected to the exterior of the ink tank 2C, ink will not flow into the buffer chamber 28b from the channel 29b. Therefore, ink will not leak from the air vent 27.

[0052] Next, assume that the printing device 1 is positioned with the sealing member 20a on the upper side and the sealing member 20b on the lower side. The ink liquid surface is located above the channel 29b that connects the storage section 25 to the buffer chamber 28b. Therefore, ink flows from the storage section 25 to the buffer chamber 28b. Similarly, since the buffer chamber 28b is connected to the buffer chamber 28a via the channel 29c, ink flows to the buffer chamber 28a via the channel 29b, the buffer chamber 28b, and the channel 29c. However, the end of the channel 29d that connects the buffer chambers 28a and 28c is located on the surface covered by the sealing member 20a. Therefore, unless the buffer chamber 28a is full of ink, ink will not flow to the next channel 29d and the buffer chamber 28c. Since the buffer chambers 28c and 28d have similar structures, the risk of ink leakage from the air vent 27 is very low.

[0053] Next, assume the printing device 1 is in an inverted position with its top and bottom facing each other. Since the ink liquid surface is located above the channel 29b that connects the storage section 25 to the buffer chamber 28b, the ink flows towards the buffer chamber 28b. In this position, the end of the channel 29c within the buffer chamber 28b is located on the upper side of the buffer chamber 28b. Therefore, unless the buffer chamber 28b is full of ink, ink will not flow through the channel 29c to the buffer chamber 28a. Because the buffer chambers 28a and 28c have similar structures, the risk of ink leakage from the air vent 27 is very low.

[0054] Next, assume that the printing device 1 is in the position with its front end facing downwards. In this position, the ink tank 2C is positioned with the air vent 27 facing downwards. Since the channel 29b is located below the surface of the ink liquid, ink flows through the channel 29b to the buffer chamber 28b. In this position, the end of the channel 29c in the buffer chamber 28b is located above the buffer chamber 28b. Therefore, unless the buffer chamber 28b is full of ink, ink will not flow through the channel 29c to the buffer chamber 28a. Furthermore, even if the buffer chamber 28b is full of ink, the amount of ink in the storage section 25 with the surface of the ink liquid below the channel 29b can be stored in other buffer chambers. Therefore, the risk of ink leakage from the air vent 27 is very low.

[0055] Finally, assume the printing unit 1 is in the position with its rear end facing downwards. The ink tank 2C is in the position with the air vent 27 facing upwards. This position is the same as when the printing unit 1 is in the position where the sealing member 20a is on top and the sealing member 20b is on the bottom. That is, ink will not flow to the next buffer chamber 28c unless the buffer chamber 28a is full of ink. Since the buffer chambers 28c and 28d have similar structures, the risk of ink leakage from the air vent 27 is very low.

[0056] As described above, in this embodiment, even if the printing device 1 is placed in a different posture than when in use for a long time, and the atmospheric pressure / temperature changes, the risk of ink leakage can be reduced, and ink leakage from the air vent 27 can be suppressed.

[0057] <2-2. Channel Structure>

[0058] Apart from Figures 3A to 4B In addition, it will also refer to Figures 5A to 7 To describe the structure of needle 22 and channels 31 and 32. Figure 5A and Figure 5B It is a perspective view showing a portion of the ink can 2C, and specifically shows the boundary portion between the needle 22 and the channels 31 and 32. Figure 6A It is along Figure 4B The cross-sectional view taken by line AA in the diagram, and Figure 6B It is along Figure 4B The cross-sectional view taken from line BB in the diagram. Figure 7 It is along Figure 4B The cross-sectional view taken from line CC in the diagram.

[0059] The needle 22 has a cylindrical shape extending in the Z direction. The internal space of the needle 22 is divided by a partition 220, forming channels 221 and 222. The partition 220 is a plate on the XZ plane. Channels 221 and 222 are both channels extending in the Z direction, and their channel direction is Z. The distal end (upper end) of the needle 22 is shaped like a mountain. The openings at the distal ends (upper ends) of channels 221 and 222 (the openings on the side of the refill bottle 5) are both inclined relative to the channel direction. In other words, the end faces of the forming portions of channels 221 and 222 in the needle 22 are inclined at an angle ranging from 30° to 60° relative to the XY plane. This suppresses the formation of an ink film in the openings due to the surface tension of the ink and improves ink flow during ink refilling.

[0060] like Figure 7As shown in, the partition 220 is located at a position deviated to the front side along the Y direction from the central axis CT of the needle 22. The cross-sectional shape (cross-sectional shape on the X-Y plane) of each of the channels 221 and 222 is a sector. The channel 221 and the channel 222 have different cross-sectional areas, and the cross-sectional area of the channel 221 is larger than that of the channel 222. During replenishment, the ink flow rate in the channel 221 can be larger than that in the channel 222. Except for the inclined portion at the distal end of the needle 22, the cross-sectional shape of the channel 221 at any position in the Z direction is the same. Except for the inclined portion at the distal end of the needle 22, the cross-sectional shape of the channel 222 at any position in the Z direction is also the same. At any position including the distal end of the needle 22 in the Z direction, the channel 221 and the channel 222 have different cross-sectional areas, and the cross-sectional area in the channel 221 is larger than that in the channel 222.

[0061] The channel 31 and the channel 32 extend in the Z direction and are adjacent to each other in the Y direction. The channel 31 and the channel 32 are separated from each other by the partition 30 in the Y direction. The partition 30 is a plate on the X-Z plane, formed to continue to the partition 220 of the needle 22.

[0062] The channel 31 is formed between and communicates with the channel 221 and the storage portion 25. The channel 31 includes an opening portion 31a opening to the storage portion 25 at an end portion on the storage portion 25 side. Further, the channel 221 opens to the upper end surface 31b.

[0063] The channel 31 is defined by the partition 30, an inner wall surface 31c facing the partition 30, the sealing member 20a, and an inner wall surface (the bottom of the groove) 31d facing the sealing member 20a. The channel 31 includes a shaped portion 33 formed at an end portion on the channel 221 side. The partition 30 is parallel to the inner wall surface 31c. Except for the shaped portion 33, the cross-sectional shape (cross-sectional shape on the X-Y plane) of the channel 31 orthogonal to the channel direction is a rectangle. On the upper end surface 31b, the channel 221 opens at a position closer to the inner wall surface 31d than the sealing member 20a.

[0064] The width of the channel 31 in the X direction varies depending on the position in the Z direction. The width of the channel 31 in the region R1 on the needle 22 side is W1, and the width in the region R3 on the storage portion 25 side is W3 (<W1). Both the region R1 and R3 are uniform portions having the same width. In the intermediate region R2, the width in the X direction continuously changes. The region R2 is a changing portion where the width decreases as approaching the storage portion 25. The width W21 of the channel 31 in the Y direction is the same at any position in the Z direction.

[0065] A shaped portion 33 is formed at the end of channel 31 (the end on the side of channel 221). The shaped portion 33 has a cross-sectional shape shared with a portion of the cross-sectional shape of channel 221. More specifically, in the shaped portion 33, an arcuate cross-sectional shape concentric about the central axis CT is continuously formed from channel 221, said cross-sectional shape being shared by a portion of the arcuate sector that is the cross-sectional shape of channel 221. The shaped portion 33 is formed downward from the upper end face 31b along the Z direction within the range of cross-section P1.

[0066] When viewed in the X direction, shape portion 33 is formed on the distal side, at a distance L from the side portion 21c of the main body 21. The arcuate portion of the cross-sectional shape of channel 221 is an arcuate shape within a range of approximately 180°, while the arcuate portion of the cross-sectional shape of shape portion 33 is an arcuate shape within a range of approximately 90°. Within this 90° range, the inner wall surface of the channel extends from channel 221 to channel 31.

[0067] from Figure 7 It is evident that the cross-sectional area of ​​the channels varies significantly between channels 221 and 31, leading to potential fluid pressure loss. Even within channel 31, fluid pressure loss is reduced by incorporating a shaped portion 33 and locally maintaining the shape of channel 221. This reduces resistance to ink flowing through the boundary between channels 221 and 31 and increases the ink inflow rate during ink replenishment. Specifically, channels 221 and 31 sometimes have different shapes due to limitations in the molding of the body 21 or ink replenishment efficiency. In such cases, the shaped portion 33 effectively reduces fluid pressure loss at the boundary between the channels.

[0068] In section P2 of section P1, the portion of shape 33 with an arcuate cross-section gradually decreases in size downwards in the Z direction. As this shape gradually matches the inner wall surface 31d from shape portion 33, the generation of resistance to ink flow can be reduced.

[0069] Next, the channel 32 is defined by the partition 30, the inner wall surface 32c facing the partition 30, the sealing member 20a, and the inner wall surface (bottom of the groove) 32d facing the sealing member 20a. The channel 32 includes a shaped portion 34 formed at the end on the channel 222 side. The partition 30 is parallel to the inner wall surface 32c. Except for a portion of the shaped portion 34, the cross-sectional shape (cross-sectional shape in the XY plane) of the channel 32, which is orthogonal to the channel direction, is rectangular. On the upper end face 32b, the channel 222 opens at a position closer to the inner wall surface 32d than the sealing member 20a.

[0070] The width of the channel 32 in the X direction varies depending on the position in the Z direction. The width of the channel 32 in the region R11 on the needle 22 side is W11, while the width in the region R13 on the storage portion 25 side is W13 (<W11). Both the region R11 and the region R13 are uniform portions with the same width. In the intermediate region R12, the width in the X direction changes continuously. The region R12 is a varying portion where the width decreases as it approaches the storage portion 25. The width W22 of the channel 32 in the Y direction is the same at any position in the Z direction.

[0071] A shaped portion 34 is formed at an end of the channel 32 (the end on the channel 222 side). The shaped portion 34 has a cross-sectional shape shared with a part of the cross-sectional shape of the channel 222. More specifically, in the shaped portion 34, a concentric arc cross-sectional shape about the central axis CT is continuously formed from the channel 222, and said cross-sectional shape is shared by a part of the sector arc that is the cross-sectional shape of the channel 222. The shaped portion 34 is formed downward in the Z direction from the upper end surface 32b within the range of the cross-section P11.

[0072] When viewed in the X direction, the shaped portion 34 is formed on the distal side at a position with a distance L from the side portion 21c of the main body 21. The arc portion of the cross-sectional shape of the channel 222 is an arc within a range of about 180°, while the arc of the cross-sectional shape of the shaped portion 34 is an arc within a range of about 90°. Within the 90° range, the inner wall surface of the channel continues from the channel 222 to the channel 32.

[0073] From Figure 7 it can be clearly seen that the cross-sectional area of the channel varies greatly between the channel 222 and the channel 32, and fluid pressure loss is likely to occur. Even in the channel 32, the pressure loss of the fluid is reduced by providing the shaped portion 34 and locally maintaining the shape of the channel 222. This can reduce the resistance to ink passing through the boundary between the channel 222 and the channel 32, and increase the ink inflow speed during ink replenishment. Specifically, the channel 222 and the channel 32 sometimes have different shapes due to the molding of the main body 21 or limitations on ink replenishment efficiency. In this case, the shaped portion 34 effectively reduces the fluid pressure loss at the boundary portion between the channels.

[0074] In the cross-section P12 of the cross-section P11, the portion having the arc cross-sectional shape in the shaped portion 34 gradually becomes smaller downward in the Z direction. When this shape gradually matches from the shaped portion 34 to the inner wall surface 32d, the generation of resistance to ink flow can be reduced.

[0075] When comparing channel 31 with channel 32, W1=W11, W3<W13, the length of R2 in the Z direction > the length of R12 in the Z direction, and the length of R3 in the Z direction > the length of R13 in the Z direction. It should be noted that channel 31 and channel 32 have the same length in the Z direction. In addition, W21<W31.

[0076] When comparing the total volume between channel 31 and channel 32, the total volume of channel 32 is larger than that of channel 31. When comparing the cross-sectional area (on the X-Y plane) at any position in the Z direction between channel 31 and channel 32, the cross-sectional area of channel 32 is larger than that of channel 31. Similarly, the opening area of opening portion 31a < the opening area of opening portion 32a. The change in cross-sectional area at the boundary between channel 222 and channel 32 is larger than the change in cross-sectional area at the boundary between channel 221 and channel 31.

[0077] When comparing shaped portion 33 with shaped portion 34, the length of cross-section P1 in the Z direction < the length of cross-section P11 in the Z direction. When viewed in the X direction, both shaped portions 33 and 34 are formed on the distal side at a distance L from side portion 21c of main body 21, and the cross-sectional area of channel 221 is larger than that of channel 222. Therefore, the contour length of the cross-sectional shape shared with channel 221 in shaped portion 33 ( Figure 7 the arc length within a range of about 90° therein) is longer than the contour length of the cross-sectional shape shared with channel 222 in shaped portion 34 (the arc length within a range of about 90° in Figure 7 therein).

[0078] When comparing the arrangement of channel 221 and channel 31 of needle 22 with the arrangement of channel 222 and channel 32 of needle 22, these arrangements have the following characteristics. Since the cross-sectional area of channel 221 is larger than that of channel 222, a larger amount of ink can easily pass through channel 221. On the other hand, since the cross-sectional area and volume of channel 31 are smaller than those of channel 32, channel 31 can hold less ink. Since the opening area of opening portion 31a of channel 31 is smaller than that of opening portion 32a of channel 32, a liquid film is easily formed on the opening portion 31a of channel 31 due to the generated surface tension.

[0079] "3. Replenishment Bottle"

[0080] Figure 8 is a diagram showing a replenishment mode in which replenishment bottle 5 is attached to ink tank 2C. Figures 9A to 9C is a diagram showing a process of attaching replenishment bottle 5 to ink tank 2C. The replenishment bottle 5 is a bottle configured to replenish ink. The replenishment bottle 5 is provided for each ink type, and replenishes ink into the ink tank 2 corresponding to the ink. Figures 8 to 9CThe refill bottle 5 shown is for cyan ink. Refill bottles for other ink types have a similar structure.

[0081] The refill bottle 5 includes a storage section 51 for storing ink and a closing member 52 fixed to the end of the storage section 51. The storage section 51 is a cylindrical container with an end opening, and the closing member 52 is fixed to the storage section 51 to close the opening end.

[0082] An insertion hole 53 configured to receive a needle 22 is formed in the closing member 52. The insertion hole 53 communicates with the storage portion 51 via a valve 55. A sealing member 54 is disposed around the insertion hole 53. The valve 55 includes a movably disposed opening / closing member 55a and a spring 55b configured to bias the opening / closing member 55a in a closing direction. By biasing the spring 55b, the opening / closing member 55a is located in a closed position, in which the opening / closing member 55a contacts the sealing member 54 to block communication between the insertion hole 53 and the storage portion 51.

[0083] The following describes the ink refilling process using refill bottle 5. Here, we will describe the process of refilling cyan ink into ink reservoir 2C. The user prepares refill bottle 5 to store cyan ink. The user also removes cap 4 from pin 22 on ink reservoir 2C. (As follows...) Figure 9A As shown, the replenishment bottle 5 is attached to the ink can 2C in a vertical position with the closing member 52 side facing down, so that the needle 22 is inserted into the insertion hole 53.

[0084] Figure 9B The diagram shows the state where the refill bottle 5 is pushed to the ink reservoir 2C side and the needle 22 begins to be inserted into the insertion hole 53. Figure 9B At the stage shown, needle 22 has not yet reached the opening / closing member 55a, and valve 55 remains closed.

[0085] Figure 9C The stage of attaching the replenishment bottle 5 is shown. The needle 22 pushes the opening / closing member 55a upward against the biasing force of the spring 55b, and shifts the opening / closing member 55a to an open position separate from the sealing member 54. The valve 55 becomes open, and the reservoir 51 communicates with channels 221 and 222 of the needle 22. Cyan ink in the reservoir 51 flows from channels 221 and 222 to the ink tank 2C.

[0086] When the ink refill is finished, remove refill bottle 5 from ink tank 2C. The removal process is the reverse of the attachment procedure. When removing refill bottle 5 from... Figure 9C When the state shown is pulled upwards, pin 22 separates from the open / close member 55a, and therefore, the state returns to the open / closed state. Figure 9AThe state shown is as follows. Due to the bias of spring 55b, the opening / closing member 55a returns to the closed position, and valve 55 returns to the closed state. Therefore, the cyan ink in the storage section 51 will not flow out from the insertion hole 53.

[0087] 4. Supplementing the flow of ink

[0088] Below, we will refer to Figures 10A to 13C Description in Figure 9C In the state shown, ink flows from the replenishment bottle 5 to the storage section 25 via channels 221 and 222 and channels 31 and 32 of needle 22. Figure 10A , Figure 11A , Figure 12A and Figure 13A Corresponding to along Figure 4B The image shows a cross-sectional view taken from line AA, and schematically illustrates the flow of ink in channels 222 and 32. Figure 10C , Figure 11C , Figure 12C and Figure 13C Corresponding to along Figure 4B The image shows a cross-sectional view taken from line BB, and schematically illustrates the flow of ink in channels 221 and 31. Figure 10B , Figure 11B , Figure 12B and Figure 13B Side view of the ink cans near channels 31 and 32.

[0089] Figures 10A to 10C The diagram illustrates the initial stages of ink flow from refill bottle 5 into channels 31 and 32. In the initial phase of ink flow, ink flows into channels 31 and 32 in a substantially similar manner. Afterwards, as... Figures 11A to 11C As shown, ink reaches the opening portion 31a of channel 31 and the opening portion 32a of channel 32. Due to the small opening area, a liquid film is easily formed on the opening portion 31a due to surface tension. Due to the large opening area, almost no liquid film is formed on the opening portion 32a. In other words, the opening portion 31a is designed to have a small opening area, thus facilitating the formation of a liquid film, while the opening portion 32a is designed to have a large opening area, thus almost preventing the formation of a liquid film.

[0090] like Figures 12A to 12C As shown, if channel 31 closes, air flows into the replenishment bottle 5 through the unclosed channel 32 to resolve the negative pressure in the replenishment bottle 5, and ink accumulates in channel 31. When the weight of the ink accumulated in channel 31 becomes greater than the surface tension of the liquid film on the opening 31a, the ink begins to pass through the opening 31a and flow into the storage section 25. Afterwards, as... Figures 13A to 13CAs shown therein, the ink in the replenishment bottle 5 continuously flows into the storage portion 25 through the passage 31, and air continuously flows into the replenishment bottle 5 through the passage 32. Through this gas-liquid exchange, the ink can smoothly flow from the replenishment bottle 5 into the storage portion 25.

[0091] In this embodiment, a liquid film caused by surface tension is intentionally formed on the opening portion 31a in the initial stage, thereby realizing smooth and stable ink injection. To avoid the formation of a liquid film via surface tension at an unintended position, for example, the passages 221 and 222 are opened obliquely at the distal end of the needle 22. This makes it difficult to form an ink liquid film. In addition, the cross-sectional area of the passage 221 is made larger than the cross-sectional area of the passage 222, thereby allowing a larger amount of ink to flow from the replenishment bottle 5 into the ink tank 2 and increasing the speed.

[0092] Here, in this embodiment, regarding the length in the Z direction, R1 < R11 holds, and the relation W3 < W13 holds. That is, when viewed from the needle 22, compared with the passage 31, the passage 32 has a portion with an increased cross-sectional area or space. In this enlarged portion, the flowing ink may generate a vortex and lose energy, and its flow may be hindered. When the passage 31 is used as a distribution path for ink and the passage 32 is used as a distribution path for air, the efficiency of ink flowing into the ink tank 2 can be improved.

[0093] <Second Embodiment>

[0094] In the above embodiment, the shape portion 33 is provided in the passage 31, and the shape portion 34 is provided in the passage 32. However, the shape portion may be provided only in one of the passage 31 and the passage 32. In this case, the shape portion may be provided only in the passage 31 through which ink continuously flows.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the ink tank 2 is exemplified as a liquid container, and the printing apparatus 1 including print heads 13A and 13B that discharge ink is exemplified as an application object. However, the present invention can also be applied to a liquid container that stores liquid other than ink, or an apparatus including a discharge head that discharges liquid other than ink.

[0096] <Disclosure of Embodiments>

[0097] The above embodiments disclose the invention of the following items.

[0098] The invention of item 1 below is disclosed as an invention that provides a technique for mainly increasing the inflow speed of liquid from a replenishment bottle to a liquid container.

[0099] Item 1

[0100] A liquid container, comprising:

[0101] A storage unit configured to store liquid, which will be supplied to a discharge head that discharges the liquid;

[0102] A needle configured to form a first channel and a second channel, the needle being inserted into a replenishment bottle configured to replenish the liquid to the storage section, and communicating with the replenishment bottle;

[0103] A third channel, the third channel being located between the first channel and the storage unit; and

[0104] A fourth channel, located between the second channel and the storage unit.

[0105] Wherein, a first shape portion is formed at the end of the third channel on the side of the first channel, and the first shape portion has a cross-sectional shape that is shared with a portion of the cross-sectional shape of the first channel.

[0106] The invention described in item 2 below is disclosed as an invention that provides a technique for substantially suppressing liquid leakage from the air vent when the printing device is installed in a different posture than when it is in use or due to changes in external atmospheric pressure / temperature.

[0107] Project 2

[0108] A liquid container, the liquid container comprising:

[0109] Container body;

[0110] A storage section is formed in the container body and configured to store liquid, which is supplied to a discharge head that discharges the liquid;

[0111] A first sealing member, configured to seal a first side portion of the container body;

[0112] A second sealing member is configured to seal a second side of the container body;

[0113] Multiple buffer chambers are formed within the container body; and

[0114] An air vent, formed in the container body, communicates with the storage section via the plurality of buffer chambers.

[0115] The plurality of buffer chambers include:

[0116] A buffer chamber that opens to the first side and is sealed by the first sealing member; and

[0117] A buffer chamber that opens to the second side and is sealed by the second sealing member.

[0118] Other embodiments

[0119] The embodiments of the present invention can also be implemented by providing software (programs) that perform the functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and the computer or central processing unit (CPU) or microprocessor unit (MPU) of the system or device reads out and executes the program.

[0120] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The appended claims should be interpreted in the broadest possible sense to cover all such variations and equivalent results and functions.

Claims

1. A printing apparatus, the printing apparatus comprising a liquid container, wherein, The liquid container includes: A storage unit configured to store liquid, which will be supplied to a discharge head that discharges the liquid; A first channel, configured to be inserted into and communicate with a replenishment bottle configured to replenish the liquid into the storage section; and A second channel, located between the first channel and the storage section, includes a first shaped portion at its end on the side of the first channel. This first shaped portion has a cross-sectional shape shared with a portion of the cross-sectional shape of the first channel. A third channel, configured to be inserted into and communicate with the replenishment bottle; and A fourth channel, located between the third channel and the storage unit, and A second shape portion is formed at the end of the fourth channel on the third channel side, the second shape portion having a cross-sectional shape shared with a portion of the cross-sectional shape of the third channel.

2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The outline length of the cross-sectional shape shared with the first channel in the first shape portion is longer than the outline length of the cross-sectional shape shared with the third channel in the second shape portion.

3. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The second channel is a channel extending in the first direction. The fourth channel is a channel extending in the first direction. The second channel is a channel with widths in both a second direction and a third direction, and the second direction and the third direction intersect with the first direction. The fourth channel is a channel with widths in both the second direction and the third direction, and The width of the second channel in the second direction is narrower than the width of the fourth channel in the second direction.

4. The printing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein The second channel includes: The first variation portion, the width of the first variation portion in the third direction decreases as it approaches the storage portion; as well as A first uniform portion is formed from the first variable portion toward the storage portion and has the same width in the third direction. The fourth channel includes: The second variation portion, the width of the second variation portion in the third direction decreases as it approaches the storage portion; as well as The second uniform portion is formed from the second variable portion toward the storage portion and has the same width in the third direction. The width of the second channel in the third direction at the first uniform portion is narrower than the width of the fourth channel in the third direction at the second uniform portion.

5. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein Each of the first channel, the second channel, the third channel, and the fourth channel is a channel extending in the vertical direction. The first channel and the third channel are arranged to be adjacent to each other in a transverse direction intersecting the vertical direction, and The second channel and the fourth channel are arranged to be adjacent to each other in the lateral direction.

6. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, At the same location in the vertical direction, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second channel is different from that of the fourth channel.

7. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, At the same location in the vertical direction, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first channel is different from that of the third channel.

8. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein At the same position in the vertical direction, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second channel is smaller than that of the fourth channel, and At the same location in the vertical direction, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first channel is larger than that of the third channel.

9. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The change in cross-sectional area at the boundary between the third channel and the fourth channel is greater than the change in cross-sectional area at the boundary between the first channel and the second channel.

10. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein Each of the first channel and the third channel is a channel extending in the vertical direction. The opening portion of the first channel on the side of the replenishment bottle is inclined relative to the channel direction of the first channel, and The opening of the third channel on the side of the replenishment bottle is inclined relative to the channel direction of the third channel.

11. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The second channel includes a first opening portion that opens into the storage section. The fourth channel includes a second opening portion that opens into the storage section, and The opening area of ​​the first opening is smaller than the opening area of ​​the second opening.

12. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The liquid container includes: Container body; A first sealing member, configured to seal a first side portion of the container body; as well as A needle, configured to form the first channel and the third channel. The needle is a tubular component integrally formed with the container body, and Each of the second channel and the fourth channel is formed by a groove formed in the first side and the first sealing member.

13. The printing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein The liquid container includes: A second sealing member is configured to seal a second side portion of the container body, and The storage section is formed by a space opening to the second side and the second sealing member.

14. The printing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein The first channel is configured to project upwards from the top of the container body, and The space is formed on the bottom side of the container body.

15. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The first channel has a fan-shaped cross-section, and The cross-sectional shape of the first shaped part is arc-shaped.

16. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The third channel has a fan-shaped cross-section, and The cross-sectional shape of the second shaped part is arc-shaped.

17. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The liquid container includes: A needle, the needle being configured to form the first channel and the third channel; A container body configured to form the needle and the storage portion; A first sealing member, configured to seal a first side portion of the container body; A second sealing member is configured to seal a second side of the container body; Multiple buffer chambers are formed within the container body; as well as An air vent, formed in the container body and communicating with the storage section via the plurality of buffer chambers, and The plurality of buffer chambers include: A buffer chamber that opens to the first side and is sealed by the first sealing member; as well as A buffer chamber that opens to the second side and is sealed by the second sealing member.

18. The printing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein The plurality of buffer chambers includes a first buffer chamber that communicates with the storage section via a fifth channel, and When the liquid container is positioned with the second side below, the fifth channel is formed at a position higher than the liquid level in the storage section where the maximum amount of ink is stored.

19. The printing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein, The air vent is formed in the third side of the container body.

20. The printing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein The liquid container includes: The liquid outlet is formed within the container body, and The outlet is located at a position higher than the liquid level in the storage section where the maximum amount of ink is stored.

21. The printing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein The liquid container includes: The liquid outlet is formed within the container body. The outlet is connected to the storage section via a fifth channel, and The fifth channel is formed by a groove formed in the container body and the first sealing member.

22. The printing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein The plurality of buffer chambers include: A first buffer chamber, which is connected to the storage section; as well as The second buffer chamber is connected to the air vent. The first buffer chamber opens to the first side and is sealed by the first sealing member, and The second buffer chamber opens to the second side and is sealed by the second sealing member.

23. The printing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein The plurality of buffer chambers include: The first buffer chamber is connected to the storage unit via the fifth channel; as well as The second buffer chamber is connected to the first buffer chamber via a sixth channel. The first buffer chamber and the second buffer chamber open to the first side and are sealed by the first sealing member. The sixth channel is formed by a groove formed in the container body and the second sealing member.

24. A liquid container, the liquid container comprising: A storage unit configured to store liquid, which will be supplied to a discharge head that discharges the liquid; A first channel is inserted into a replenishment bottle configured to replenish the liquid into the storage unit, and communicates with the replenishment bottle; as well as A second channel is located between the first channel and the storage section, and includes a first shaped portion at its end on the side of the first channel. The first shaped portion has a cross-sectional shape shared with a portion of the cross-sectional shape of the first channel. A third channel is configured to be inserted into and communicate with the replenishment bottle; as well as A fourth channel, located between the third channel and the storage unit, and A second shape portion is formed at the end of the fourth channel on the third channel side, the second shape portion having a cross-sectional shape shared with a portion of the cross-sectional shape of the third channel.

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