Printing device

Abstract

The present application provides a printing device, when the liquid container is detached from the mounting portion, the liquid container and the second limiting portion can be inhibited from interfering. The printing device has: a printing portion; a mounting portion which can detachably mount the liquid container; and a cover which switches the state of the mounting portion, the liquid container has: a first limiting portion which limits the liquid container from being detached from the mounting portion; an operation portion which receives an operation for releasing the limitation based on the first limiting portion; and an inclined portion which is inclined upward in the vertical direction as it approaches the cover, the mounting portion has a first guide portion which guides the inclined portion, the cover has: a second limiting portion which protrudes toward the operation portion when the state of the mounting portion is a closed state, and which limits the operation of the liquid container, the liquid container can be displaced between a limiting position and a releasing position, and when the liquid container is removed from the mounting portion, the liquid container and the second limiting portion can be relatively moved in such a manner that the liquid container and the second limiting portion do not interfere.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a printing device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Research and development have been conducted on a printing device that performs printing using ink supplied from an ink cartridge.

[0003] In this regard, a liquid supply device is known in which a liquid cartridge is inserted into a mounting portion against an applied force in a second direction opposite to a first direction, through an opening of the mounting portion, and in which the liquid cartridge has a liquid storage chamber, a front surface facing the first direction in a state in which the liquid cartridge is inserted into the mounting portion, a rear surface configured to sandwich the liquid storage chamber between the front surface, a side surface extending between the front surface and the rear surface, a liquid supply portion configured to be provided to the front surface, a locking surface configured to be provided to the side surface, and a recessed portion opened in the second direction, the mounting portion has a liquid supply tube inserted into the liquid supply portion, a locking portion that abuts against the locking surface, and a cover that is rotatable between an open posture in which the opening is opened and a closed posture in which the opening is closed, and has a protrusion, in a state in which the liquid supply tube is inserted into the liquid supply portion in the mounting portion, the liquid cartridge is rotatable between a first posture in which the locking surface and the locking portion are opposite to and abut against each other in the first direction and the second direction, and a second posture in which the locking surface and the locking portion are not opposite to each other in the first direction and the second direction, in the first posture, the liquid cartridge is positioned in the mounting portion against the applied force by the locking surface and the locking portion abutting against each other in the second direction, when the liquid cartridge having the state of being positioned in the mounting portion, the cover is in the closed posture, and thus the protrusion is accommodated in the recessed portion, and the movement of the liquid cartridge to the second posture is restricted, and in the mounting portion, when the liquid cartridge is in the second posture, the protrusion abuts against the liquid cartridge in a process of being rotated from the open posture toward the closed posture (see Patent Literature 1). Further, one example of the structure of the liquid cartridge described in Patent Literature 1 is described in Patent Literature 2 (see Patent Literature 2).

[0004] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-185660

[0005] Patent Literature 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-161877

[0006] However, in the liquid supply device in which the liquid cartridge described in Patent Literatures 1 and 2 is mounted, in a case where the liquid cartridge is to be detached from the mounting portion toward the second direction, there is a case where the liquid cartridge interferes with the protrusion of the cover. Such interference can cause the liquid cartridge to vibrate, and thus liquid leakage due to the vibration of the liquid cartridge is caused, which is not preferable. SUMMARY

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure for solving the aforementioned technical problem is a printing apparatus comprising: a printing section for printing on a printing medium; a liquid container having a liquid storage section for storing liquid supplied to the printing section; a mounting section for attaching and detaching the liquid container; and a cover for switching the state of the mounting section between an open state (where the mounting section is open) and a closed state (where the mounting section is closed). The liquid container comprises: a first limiting section disposed on the upper part of the liquid container in the vertical direction, limiting the removal of the liquid container from the mounting section; an operating section disposed on the upper part of the liquid container in the vertical direction, and, when the liquid container is mounted on the mounting section, the operating section is located closer to the cover than the first limiting section, and receives an operation to release the restriction based on the first limiting section; and an inclined section disposed on the lower part of the liquid container in the vertical direction, and located near the operating section. Below, when the liquid container is installed on the mounting portion, the inclined portion tilts upward in the vertical direction as it approaches the cover. The mounting portion includes a first guide portion that guides the inclined portion. The cover includes a second restricting portion. When the mounting portion is in the closed state, the second restricting portion protrudes toward the operating portion to restrict the movement of the liquid container. The liquid container can be displaced between a restricted position and a released position. The restricted position is a position where movement from the mounting portion toward the cover in a first direction orthogonal to the vertical direction is restricted by the first restricting portion. The released position is a position where the restriction of the first restricting portion is released and the inclined portion is in contact with the first guide portion. When the liquid container is removed from the mounting portion, the liquid container and the second restricting portion can be moved relative to each other in a manner that does not interfere with each other. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of printing apparatus 1.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ink cartridge ICR in the state of being installed in the mounting section 12.

[0010] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The image shown is a 3D view of the ink cartridge ICR.

[0011] Figure 4 It was cut along a surface parallel to the XZ plane in the three-dimensional coordinate system TC. Figure 2 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge during ICR.

[0012] Figure 5is a view showing one example of the case where the four ink cartridge ICs are mounted to the mounting portion 12.

[0013] Figure 6 is a view showing one example of the case where the operation portion CL of the ink cartridge IC R among the four ink cartridge ICs shown in Figure 5 is a view showing one example of the case where the operation portion CL of the ink cartridge IC R among the four ink cartridge ICs shown in

[0014] Figure 7 is a view showing one example of the appearance of the printing device 1 when the state of the mounting portion 12, in which the ink cartridge insertion space is closed by the cover 13, is a closed state.

[0015] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing one example of the configuration of the second restriction portion LM2 in the erected state.

[0016] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the second restriction portion LM2 shown in Figure 8 from another direction.

[0017] Figure 10 is a perspective view showing one example of the second restriction portion LM2 in the laid-down state.

[0018] Figure 11 is a view showing another configuration of the second restriction portion LM2.

[0019] Figure 12 is a view showing another other example of the configuration of the second restriction portion LM2.

[0020] Figure 13 is a view showing yet another other example of the second restriction portion LM2.

[0021] Figure 14 is a view showing one example of the case where the printing device 1 is in a state where the cover 13 is opened.

[0022] Figure 15 is a view showing one example of the cover 13 provided with the second guide portion GD4.

[0023] Figure 16 is a view showing one example of the second guide portion GD4 in the guide posture.

[0024] Figure 17 is a view showing one example of the second guide portion GD4 in the housed posture.

[0025] Figure 18 is a view showing one example of the mounting portion 12 provided with the third guide portion GD5.

[0026] Figure 19 is a view showing one example of the ink cartridge IC R provided with the protrusion portion TH.

[0027] Figure 20 is a view showing one example of the ink cartridge ICR provided with a third guide portion GD5.

[0028] Figure 21 is a view showing one example of the mounting portion 12 provided with a protrusion portion TH.

[0029] Figure 22 is one example showing a case of the ink cartridge ICR when mounted to the mounting portion 12.

[0030] Figure 23 is a view showing one example of a case of the ink cartridge ICR after the operation portion CL of the ink cartridge ICR shown in Figure 22 is pressed down from above.

[0031] Figure 24 is a view showing one example of a case where the ink cartridge ICR shown in Figure 23 is pulled out halfway toward the removal direction by the user.

[0032] Figure 25 is a view showing one example of a case where the ink cartridge ICR shown in Figure 24 is pulled out further toward the removal direction by the user.

[0033] Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0034] 1: printing device; 11: printing portion; 12: mounting portion; 13: cover; 13A: covering portion; 121: recess; CL: operation portion; CN: connecting portion; CN2: connected portion; GD: guide groove; GD1: first guide surface; GD2: second guide surface; GD3: first guide portion; GD4: second guide portion; GD5: third guide portion; HL: insertion port; IC: ink cartridge; ICB: ink cartridge; ICG: ink cartridge; ICK: ink cartridge; ICR: ink cartridge; LM1: first restriction portion; LM2: second restriction portion; LM3: third restriction portion; LMM: state switching portion; SP: elastic member; SP2: force applying member; SP3: force applying member; TC: three-dimensional coordinate system; TH: protrusion portion; TK: liquid storage portion; TP: inclined portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] EMBODIMENT

[0036] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0037] Outline of Printing Device

[0038] First, an outline of a printing device to which the embodiment is applied will be described.

[0039] The printing device according to the embodiment includes a printing section, a mounting section, and a cover. The printing section performs printing on a printing medium. The mounting section is a member to which a liquid container is detachably attached, the liquid container having a liquid storage section that stores a liquid supplied to the printing section. The cover switches a state of the mounting section between an open state in which the mounting section is opened and a closed state in which the mounting section is closed. Further, the liquid container includes a first restriction section, an operation section, and a tilt section. The first restriction section is provided at an upper portion of the liquid container in a vertical direction and restricts detachment of the liquid container from the mounting section. The operation section is provided at the upper portion of the liquid container in the vertical direction and, in a case where the liquid container is attached to the mounting section, is located at a position closer to the cover than the first restriction section and receives an operation to release the restriction by the first restriction section. The tilt section is provided at a lower portion of the liquid container in the vertical direction and is located below the operation section, and, in a case where the liquid container is attached to the mounting section, tilts upward in the vertical direction as it approaches the cover. Here, the mounting section includes a first guide section that guides the tilt section. Further, the cover includes a second restriction section. In a case where the state of the mounting section is the closed state, the second restriction section protrudes toward the operation section and restricts movement of the liquid container. Further, the liquid container is displaceable between a restriction position at which movement in a first direction from the mounting section toward the cover in a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction is restricted by the first restriction section and a release position at which the restriction by the first restriction section is released and the tilt section is in contact with the first guide section. In addition, when the liquid container is removed from the mounting section, the printing device can relatively move the liquid container and the second restriction section in such a manner that the liquid container and the second restriction section do not interfere with each other. Thus, the printing device can suppress interference between the liquid container and the second restriction section when the liquid container is detached from the mounting section. As a result, the printing device can suppress vibration due to interference between the liquid container and the second restriction section and thus leakage of the liquid from the liquid container.

[0040] Next, the configuration of the printing device according to the embodiment will be described in detail.

[0041] Configuration of the printing device

[0042] Next, the configuration of the printing device according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the printing device 1 as an example.

[0043] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a view showing one example of the appearance of the printing device 1.

[0044] Here, the three-dimensional coordinate system TC is a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system showing the directions in each of the drawings in which the three-dimensional coordinate system TC is drawn. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the X-axis in the three-dimensional coordinate system TC will be simply referred to as the X-axis. Also, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the Y-axis in the three-dimensional coordinate system TC will be simply referred to as the Y-axis. Also, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the Z-axis in the three-dimensional coordinate system TC will be simply referred to as the Z-axis.

[0045] Also, hereinafter, as one example, a case where the negative direction of the Z-axis coincides with the plumb direction will be described. Note that the plumb direction can also be referred to as the gravitational direction. Also, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the positive direction of the Z-axis will be referred to as the upward direction or simply as up, and the negative direction of the Z-axis will be referred to as the downward direction or simply as down. Also, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the surface of the printing device 1 on the positive direction side of the Z-axis will be referred to as the upper surface, and the surface on the opposite side of the upper surface will be referred to as the lower surface. Also, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the surface of the printing device 1 on the positive direction side of the X-axis will be referred to as the front surface, and the surface on the opposite side of the front surface will be referred to as the rear surface. Also, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the surface of the printing device 1 on the positive direction side of the Y-axis will be referred to as the left surface, and the surface on the opposite side of the left surface will be referred to as the right surface.

[0046] The printing device 1 is an inkjet printer that prints an image on a print medium using ink supplied from an ink cartridge IC. The printing device 1 can be any kind of printer as long as it is an inkjet printer.

[0047] The printing device 1 includes a printing section 11, a mounting section 12, and a cover 13.

[0048] The printing section 11 includes an inkjet printing head and is a component that prints an image on a print medium using ink supplied from an ink cartridge IC. In Figure 1 In the drawing, for the sake of simplification, the printing section 11 located inside the printing device 1 is shown as a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped object.

[0049] The mounting section 12 is a component that detachably mounts one or more ink cartridges IC. The mounting section 12 is configured to include a recess 121 that forms a space into which one or more ink cartridges IC can be inserted from the outside. The recess 121 is formed in the frame of the printing device 1 in such a manner as to form a space that is recessed from the front surface toward the rear surface of the printing device 1. Thus, in the space surrounded by the inner wall of the recess 121, one or more ink cartridges IC can be inserted from the outside from the front surface toward the rear surface of the printing device 1. Also, this space is a space that can be opened and closed by the cover 13. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, this space will be referred to as an ink cartridge insertion space.

[0050] Here, when each of one or more ink cartridge ICs is installed in the mounting section 12, the ink cartridge ICs are inserted into the ink cartridge insertion space facing the negative direction of the X-axis. On the other hand, when one or more ink cartridge ICs are removed from the mounting section 12, the ink cartridge ICs are pulled out of the ink cartridge insertion space facing the positive direction of the X-axis. Therefore, for ease of explanation, the positive direction of the X-axis will be referred to as the removal direction, and the negative direction of the X-axis will be referred to as the installation direction.

[0051] Below, as an example, such as Figure 1 As shown, the case where four ink cartridge ICs can be installed in the mounting section 12 will be explained. Therefore, in Figure 1 In the example shown, four ink cartridge ICs are inserted into the ink cartridge insertion space. These four ink cartridge ICs are for cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks. For ease of explanation, the ink cartridge IC for cyan ink will be referred to as Ink Cartridge ICR below. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the ink cartridge IC for magenta ink will be referred to as Ink Cartridge ICG below. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the ink cartridge IC for yellow ink will be referred to as Ink Cartridge ICB below. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the ink cartridge IC for black ink will be referred to as Ink Cartridge ICK below.

[0052] The four ink cartridges IC are examples of the aforementioned liquid containers. Furthermore, the ink contained in each of the four ink cartridges IC is an example of the liquid stored in the liquid reservoir of the liquid container. Each of the four ink cartridges IC has a liquid reservoir TK for storing ink inside. It should be noted that... Figure 1 To simplify the accompanying drawings, the liquid storage section TK of each of the four ink cartridge ICs has been omitted.

[0053] Here, refer to Figures 2-4 The structure of the ink cartridge ICR will be explained. It should be noted that the structures of ink cartridges ICG, ICB, and ICK are the same as those of the ink cartridge ICR. Therefore, the descriptions of the individual structures of ink cartridges ICG, ICB, and ICK will be omitted.

[0054] Figure 2 This diagram shows an example of the configuration of an ink cartridge ICR when installed in the mounting section 12. Furthermore, Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A 3D view of the ink cartridge ICR is shown. In addition, Figure 4 It cuts along a surface parallel to the XZ plane in the three-dimensional coordinate system TC. Figure 2 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge during ICR. It should be noted that... Figure 2 In the middle, the ink cartridge insertion space is closed by cover 13.

[0055] The ink cartridge ICR has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The ink cartridge ICR has a liquid storage portion TK, a connection portion CN, a guide groove GD, a first restriction portion LM1, an operation portion CL, and a tilt portion TP.

[0056] The liquid storage portion TK is a portion that stores ink to be supplied to the printing portion 11. The ink stored in the liquid storage portion TK is supplied to the printing portion 11 via the connection portion CN described later. In Figure 2 In the present embodiment, the liquid storage portion TK of the ink cartridge ICR is shown as an object having a quadrangular shape in order to simplify the drawing. Further, in Figure 3 In the present embodiment, the liquid storage portion TK is omitted in order to simplify the drawing.

[0057] The connection portion CN is connected with the connected portion CN2 provided to the mounting portion 12, and supplies ink to the printing device 1 via the connected portion CN2. In this example, as described above, four ink cartridges IC are mounted to the mounting portion 12. Therefore, the connected portion CN2 that connects with the connection portion CN of each of the four ink cartridges IC is provided in the mounting portion 12. The connected portion CN2 provided to the mounting portion 12 has a needle that is inserted into the connection portion CN. The ink of the ink cartridge IC mounted to the mounting portion 12 is supplied to the printing portion 11 through the needle. Therefore, the connection portion CN has an insertion port HL that is inserted into such a needle. The needle of the connected portion CN2 that connects with the connection portion CN of the ink cartridge ICR extends toward a direction parallel to the X axis. Therefore, when the ink cartridge ICR is inserted into the ink cartridge insertion space toward the mounting direction, the needle of the connected portion CN2 that connects with the connection portion CN is inserted into the insertion port HL of the connection portion CN of the ink cartridge ICR.

[0058] Here, the connection portion CN is an elastomer that is composed of an elastomer. Further, the needle that is inserted into the insertion port HL of the connection portion CN is composed of a soft material that can be elastically deformed to a degree according to the movement of the ink cartridge ICR within the ink cartridge insertion space when the needle is inserted into the insertion port HL of the connection portion CN. Thereby, the connection portion CN and the needle that is inserted into the connection portion CN are respectively inhibited from being plastically deformed during the mounting process of the ink cartridge ICR to the mounting portion 12 or the dismounting process of the ink cartridge ICR from the mounting portion 12.

[0059] Further, the connection portion CN has an elastic member SP. The elastic member SP is a member that exerts a force toward the removal direction on the ink cartridge ICR mounted to the mounting portion 12. The elastic member SP is, for example, a spring, but can instead be another elastic member that can exert a force toward the removal direction on the ink cartridge ICR mounted to the mounting portion 12. Such an elastic member SP can assist the user in dismounting the ink cartridge ICR from the mounting portion 12. In other words, by the connection portion CN having the elastic member SP, the user can easily dismount the ink cartridge ICR from the mounting portion 12. In Figure 4In the illustrated example, the elastic member SP is provided to the connection portion CN in a manner of being positioned between the main body of the ink cartridge ICR and the connection portion CN. Note that the elastic member SP can be provided in a manner of being able to apply a force to the ink cartridge ICR mounted to the mounting portion 12 in a direction in which the ink cartridge ICR is removed, instead of being provided to the connection portion CN.

[0060] The guide groove GD is a groove provided in order for the needle to easily be inserted into the insertion port HL of such a connection portion CN. The guide groove GD is provided to the outer surface of the connection portion CN of the ink cartridge ICR. Further, the guide groove GD is guided by a protrusion of the mounting portion 12 during the mounting of the ink cartridge ICR to the mounting portion 12. That is, the protrusion that guides the guide groove GD of each of the four ink cartridges ICR is provided in the mounting portion 12. Note that such a protrusion can be any configuration as long as it is a configuration that can guide the guide groove GD of each of the four ink cartridges ICR. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a description based on the drawing is omitted with respect to the configuration of such a protrusion. Since the connection portion CN is provided with such a guide groove GD, the printing device 1 is able to easily connect the connection portion CN to the connected portion CN2 to which the connection portion CN is connected in a case where the ink cartridge ICR is mounted to the mounting portion 12.

[0061] Further, in a case where the ink cartridge ICR is mounted to the mounting portion 12, the guide groove GD is provided with a first guide surface GD1 that opens to the front in the mounting direction and extends in a direction parallel to the X axis, and a second guide surface GD2 that intersects the first guide surface GD1. In Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the first guide surface GD1 and the second guide surface GD2 are orthogonal to each other. Here, in Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the first guide surface GD1 and the second guide surface GD2 are orthogonal to each other. Here, in

[0062] The first limiting portion LM1 is provided to the upper portion of the ink cartridge ICR and limits the removal of the ink cartridge ICR from the mounting portion 12. The first limiting portion LM1 is a protrusion-like member that protrudes upward from the upper portion of the substantially cuboid-shaped ink cartridge ICR. Among the surfaces of the first limiting portion LM1, the surface that is closest to the front surface of the printing device 1 is a surface on which a wire provided in the ink cartridge insertion space is hooked. Hereinafter, in order to facilitate the description, this surface will be referred to as the first limiting surface. In a case where the ink cartridge ICR is inserted into the ink cartridge insertion space and thus mounted to the mounting portion 12, the wire is hooked on the first limiting surface. Due to this, the movement of the ink cartridge ICR in the positive direction of the X axis is limited by the wire.

[0063] The inclined portion TP is provided at a lower portion of the ink cartridge ICR, is located below the operation portion CL, and is inclined upward in the vertical direction as the cover 13 is approached when the ink cartridge ICR is mounted to the mounting portion 12. Thus, when the operation portion CL is pressed downward from above as described later, the ink cartridge ICR can rotate with the rear end TPE of the inclined portion TP as the center, the inclined portion TP being located near the connection portion CN into which the needle is inserted, in correspondence with the gap between the inclined portion TP and the lower surface of the ink cartridge insertion space. In other words, in this case, the ink cartridge ICR can displace with the rear end TPE of the inclined portion TP as the center, the inclined portion TP being located near the connection portion CN into which the needle is inserted, in correspondence with the gap between the inclined portion TP and the lower surface of the ink cartridge insertion space. Here, the rear end TPE of the inclined portion TP is the end portion of the inclined portion TP that is closest to the rear surface of the printing device 1. When such rotation occurs, the inclined portion TP comes into contact with the lower surface of the ink cartridge insertion space. Thus, when the ink cartridge ICR is detached from the mounting portion 12, the inclined portion TP is guided by the lower surface of the recess 121 that forms the ink cartridge insertion space. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the lower surface of the recess 121 will be referred to as the first guide portion GD3. The first guide portion GD3 has a surface that is substantially parallel to the XY plane in the three-dimensional coordinate system TC, and guides the inclined portion TP substantially in parallel to the XY plane. Note that in the present specification, a certain surface being substantially parallel to the XY plane means that the surface is regarded as being parallel to the XY plane even if the surface is inclined by several degrees or so with respect to the XY plane. Further, in the present specification, a certain surface being substantially parallel to the XY plane means that the surface is regarded as being parallel to the XY plane even if the surface is slightly uneven with respect to the XY plane.

[0064] Here, if the inclination angle of the inclined portion TP is made large, the volume of the liquid storage portion TK of the ink cartridge ICR becomes small. This would reduce the storage amount of ink of the ink cartridge ICR, and thus is not preferable. On the other hand, in order to allow for mounting errors when the ink cartridge ICR is mounted to the mounting portion 12, it is preferable that the inclination angle of the inclined portion TP be large. However, if the first guide portion GD3 guides the ink cartridge ICR toward the mounting portion 12 after the guide groove GD of the ink cartridge ICR is guided by the protrusion of the mounting portion 12. Thus, the inclined portion TP is inclined toward the removal direction and upward more than the removal direction at a second angle θ2 that is smaller than the first angle θ1. Thus, the ink cartridge ICR can suppress reduction in the storage amount of ink of the ink cartridge ICR and appropriately guide the mounting portion 12 during the mounting process to the mounting portion 12.

[0065] Due to the provision of the inclined portion TP, as described above, in the case where the operation portion CL is pressed down from above as described later, the ink cartridge ICR can be rotated between the restricted position and the released position. In other words, in this case, the ink cartridge ICR can be displaced between the restricted position and the released position. Specifically, the ink cartridge ICR can be rotated about the rear end TPE of the inclined portion TP. More specifically, the ink cartridge ICR can be rotated between the restricted position and the released position. The restricted position refers to a position where movement in the direction from the mounting portion 12 toward the cover 13, i.e., in the removal direction, is restricted by the first restriction portion LM1 in a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction. The released position refers to a position where the restriction based on the first restriction portion LM1 is released, and the inclined portion TP is in contact with the first guide portion GD3.

[0066] Note that the ink cartridge ICR can also be configured to be rotated about the connection position at which the connection portion CN is connected to the connected portion CN2, instead of being configured to be rotated about the rear end TPE.

[0067] The operation portion CL is provided at the upper portion of the ink cartridge ICR, and, in the case where the ink cartridge ICR is mounted to the mounting portion 12, is located near the cover 13 closer than the first restriction portion LM1, and receives an operation to release the restriction based on the first restriction portion LM1. In the case where the user presses down the operation portion CL from above, as described above, the ink cartridge ICR is rotated about the rear end TPE of the inclined portion TP from the restricted position to the released position. As a result, the lead wire caught on the first restriction portion LM1 is released from the first restriction portion LM1. As a result, the ink cartridge ICR can be moved in the removal direction while being guided by the first guide portion GD3. That is, as a result, the user can detach the ink cartridge ICR from the mounting portion 12.

[0068] Here, Figure 5 is a diagram showing one example of a case where the four ink cartridges IC are mounted to the mounting portion 12. In addition, Figure 6 is a diagram showing one example of a case where the operation portion CL of the ink cartridge ICR among the four ink cartridges IC shown in Figure 5 is pressed down from above. As Figure 6 shown, in the case where the user presses down the operation portion CL from above, as described above, the ink cartridge ICR is rotated about the rear end TPE of the inclined portion TP from the restricted position to the released position. As a result, the inclined portion TP is in contact with the first guide portion GD3. Figure 6The inclined portion TP of the ink cartridge ICR is shown in contact with the first guide portion GD3. In the case where the inclined portion TP is in contact with the first guide portion GD3, if the user pulls the ink cartridge ICR in the removal direction, the inclined portion TP is guided by the first guide portion GD3. As a result, the needle of the connected portion CN2 connected to the connection portion CN of the ink cartridge ICR is pulled out of the insertion hole HL of the connection portion CN of the ink cartridge ICR. Thus, the ink cartridge ICR is detached from the mounting portion 12. Note that hereinafter, as long as it is not necessary to distinguish the four ink cartridges IC, only the ink cartridge IC is described.

[0069] The cover 13 switches the state of the mounting portion 12 between an open state in which the mounting portion 12 is opened and a closed state in which the mounting portion 12 is closed. In the case where the state of the mounting portion 12 is the closed state, as shown in FIG. 8, the ink cartridge insertion space is closed by the cover 13 so that it is not visible from the outside of the printing device 1. Here, FIG. 8 is a view showing one example of the appearance of the printing device 1 when the ink cartridge insertion space is closed by the cover 13, and the state of the mounting portion 12 is the closed state. As shown in FIG. 8, in the case where the ink cartridge insertion space is closed by the cover 13, the user cannot touch each of the four ink cartridges IC. Thus, in this case, the user cannot perform the attachment and detachment of each of the four ink cartridges IC to and from the mounting portion 12. On the other hand, in the case where the state of the mounting portion 12 is the open state, the ink cartridge insertion space is opened by the cover 13 so that it is visible from the outside of the printing device 1. Thus, in this case, the user can perform the attachment and detachment of each of the four ink cartridges IC to and from the mounting portion 12. Figure 7 Figure 7 Figure 7

[0070] Further, the cover 13 has a second restriction portion LM2.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 9, the second restriction portion LM2 is a member that protrudes toward the operation portion CL in the case where the state of the mounting portion 12 is the closed state, so as to restrict the movement of each of the four ink cartridges IC. The second restriction portion LM2 can be any member as long as it is a member that protrudes toward the operation portion CL in the case where the state of the mounting portion 12 is the closed state, so as to restrict the movement of each of the four ink cartridges IC. In the example shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the second restriction portion LM2 is a rectangular flat-shaped member that restricts the movement of each of the four ink cartridges IC. Figure 2 Figure 1 Figure 2

[0072] Here, as shown in FIG. 9, the second restriction portion LM2 is a member that protrudes toward the operation portion CL in the case where the state of the mounting portion 12 is the closed state, so as to restrict the movement of each of the four ink cartridges IC. The second restriction portion LM2 can be any member as long as it is a member that protrudes toward the operation portion CL in the case where the state of the mounting portion 12 is the closed state, so as to restrict the movement of each of the four ink cartridges IC. In the example shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the second restriction portion LM2 is a rectangular flat-shaped member that restricts the movement of each of the four ink cartridges IC. Figure 2 ​​​​​​In the state where the installation portion 12 is in the closed state, the second restriction portion LM2 is positioned in the gap between the frame of the ink cartridge ICR and the operation portion CL as shown. Thus, the second restriction portion LM2 restricts the movement of the ink cartridge ICR so that the rotation of the ink cartridge ICR that occurs when the operation portion CL is pressed down from above does not occur. As a result, the second restriction portion LM2 can suppress the rotation of the ink cartridge ICR from the restricted position to the released position at a time that is not intended by the user for some reason.

[0073] Such a second restriction portion LM2 is, for example, a member that can switch between the erected state and the fallen state. Here, Figure 8 is a perspective view showing one example of the configuration of the second restriction portion LM2 in the erected state. Further, Figure 9 is a perspective view of the second restriction portion LM2 as viewed from the other direction. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the second restriction portion LM2 as viewed from the other direction. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing one example of the second restriction portion LM2 in the fallen state. Here, in the case where the second restriction portion LM2 cannot switch from the erected state to the fallen state, for example, if the user is about to remove the ink cartridge ICR from the installation portion 12, the ink cartridge ICR that is pulled out in the removal direction can interfere with the second restriction portion LM2. Such interference can cause the ink cartridge ICR to vibrate, and thus, cause the liquid to leak from the ink cartridge ICR due to the vibration, and thus, is not preferable. Such a case is not limited to the ink cartridge ICR, but the same case applies to the other three ink cartridges IC. Thus, in the printing device 1 shown in Figures 1-10 In the printing device 1 shown in, a member that can switch between the erected state and the fallen state is used as the second restriction portion LM2. Thus, when the ink cartridge IC is removed from the installation portion 12, the printing device 1 can relatively move the ink cartridge IC and the second restriction portion LM2 in such a manner that the ink cartridge IC does not interfere with the second restriction portion LM2. In other words, thus, in the printing device 1, in the case where the state of the installation portion 12 is switched from the closed state to the open state by the cover 13, and in the case where the ink cartridge IC is installed in the installation portion 12, when the printing device 1 is viewed in the installation direction opposite to the removal direction, the second restriction portion LM2 can not overlap the ink cartridge IC. In other words, in the printing device 1, in the case where the cover 13 opens the installation portion 12, and in the case where the ink cartridge IC is installed in the installation portion 12, when the printing device 1 is viewed in the installation direction opposite to the removal direction, the second restriction portion LM2 can not overlap the ink cartridge IC. As a result, the printing device 1 can suppress the interference between the ink cartridge IC that is removed from the installation portion 12 and the second restriction portion LM2, and can suppress the vibration of the ink cartridge IC due to the interference between the ink cartridge IC and the second restriction portion LM2, which causes the ink to leak from the ink cartridge IC. This contributes to the improvement of the convenience of the printing device 1 for the user. Note that, in the present embodiment, the opening of the installation portion 12 by the cover 13 means that the state of the installation portion 12 is in the open state.

[0074] In Figures 8-10 In the example shown, the second restriction portion LM2 is a member that can be switched from the erected state to the laid state toward the removal direction. Thus, even if the user forgets to switch the state of the second restriction portion LM2 from the erected state to the laid state, the ink cartridge IC that is detached from the mounting portion 12 toward the removal direction is pushed by the second restriction portion LM2, and thus is switched from the erected state to the laid state. In this case, the printing device 1 can suppress the vibration caused by the interference of the ink cartridge IC with the second restriction portion LM2, and can suppress the leakage of ink from the ink cartridge IC.

[0075] Further, in Figures 8-10 In the example shown, a third restriction portion LM3 that restricts the second restriction portion LM2 from being laid toward the mounting direction is provided on the cover 13, so that the second restriction portion LM2 is not switched to the laid state toward the mounting direction. The third restriction portion LM3 is, for example, a protrusion that protrudes upward from the cover 13 in the state in which the ink cartridge insertion space is opened. Note that the third restriction portion LM3 can also be another member that can restrict the second restriction portion LM2 from being laid toward the mounting direction. Further, in Figure 8 and Figure 10 In the example shown, the third restriction portion LM3 is a shape in which the front end is sharp, but can instead be a shape in which the front end has a roundness. Further, the height of the cover 13 in the state in which the ink cartridge insertion space is opened to the third restriction portion LM3 is lower than the height of the cover 13 in the state in which the ink cartridge insertion space is opened to the second restriction portion LM2, and is a height that does not overlap the ink cartridge IC when the printing device 1 is viewed toward the mounting direction that is opposite to the removal direction.

[0076] Note that the direction in which the second restriction portion LM2 can be laid from the erected state can be another direction instead of the removal direction. Further, the second restriction portion LM2 can also be configured to switch the erected state and the laid state by the self-weight without accepting an operation from the user. In this case, when the state of the mounting portion 12 is switched from the closed state to the open state by the cover 13, the second restriction portion LM2 is switched from the erected state to the laid state by the vibration at the time of the switching. Further, in this case, when the state of the mounting portion 12 is switched from the open state to the closed state by the cover 13, the second restriction portion LM2 is switched from the laid state to the erected state by the vibration at the time of the switching. Thus, the printing device 1 can switch the state of the second restriction portion LM2 in conjunction with the opening and closing of the cover 13 without requiring the user to perform an additional operation to change the state of the second restriction portion LM2. Further, thus, the printing device 1 can simplify the configuration of the cover 13 without requiring the provision of a member that changes the state of the second restriction portion LM2.

[0077] Further, as Figure 11As shown, the second restriction portion LM2 can also be a member having a plurality of joints capable of being bent in a direction from the erected state to the laid state, but incapable of being bent in a direction other than the direction from the erected state to the laid state. Figure 11 is a view showing other configurations of the second restriction portion LM2. In Figure 11 In the example shown, the second restriction portion LM2 has a plurality of joints capable of being bent in the removal direction from the erected state, and incapable of being bent in a direction other than the removal direction from the erected state, in the case where the state of the mounting portion 12 is the open state. In this case, the printing device 1 can also suppress the vibration caused by the interference of the ink cartridge IC with the second restriction portion LM2, and can suppress the leakage of ink from the ink cartridge IC.

[0078] Further, as shown in Figure 12 the second restriction portion LM2 can also be a configuration provided with a state switching portion LMM that switches the state of the second restriction portion LM2. Figure 12 is a view showing another other example of the configuration of the second restriction portion LM2. In the case where the state of the mounting portion 12 is switched from the closed state to the open state by the cover 13, the state switching portion LMM switches the second restriction portion LM2 from the erected state to the laid state, and in the case where the state of the mounting portion 12 is switched from the open state to the closed state by the cover 13, the state switching portion LMM switches the second restriction portion LM2 from the laid state to the erected state. The state switching portion LMM can be any configuration as long as it is a configuration that, in the case where the state of the mounting portion 12 is switched from the closed state to the open state by the cover 13, can switch the second restriction portion LM2 from the erected state to the laid state, and in the case where the state of the mounting portion 12 is switched from the open state to the closed state by the cover 13, can switch the second restriction portion LM2 from the laid state to the erected state. In Figure 12 In the example shown, the state switching portion LMM has one rack and three pinions, and the state of the second restriction portion LM2 is switched between the erected state and the laid state by the rotation of the three pinions with respect to the rack. In addition, the state switching portion LMM is configured so that the switching of the state of the second restriction portion LM2 is linked to the operation of the cover 13. The method of achieving such linkage can be a known method or a method developed in the future. By being provided with such a state switching portion LMM, the printing device 1 can switch the state of the second restriction portion LM2 without receiving the operation of switching the state of the second restriction portion LM2 from the user. As a result, the printing device 1 can more reliably suppress the interference of the ink cartridge IC with the second restriction portion LM2 without increasing the trouble of the user. Note that in Figure 12 , the three pinions are each shown as a circular object in order to simplify the drawing. Further, in Figure 12In the accompanying drawings, to simplify the illustrations, the rack is shown as a fan-shaped object. The rack is, for example, provided in the mounting portion 12. Furthermore, in... Figure 12 In the diagram, the directions of rotation of the three gears are indicated by ribbon-shaped arrows. It should be noted that... Figure 12 In the image, the four-cornered objects drawn behind each of the three gears are components that hold each gear in place, such as covers. Furthermore, in... Figure 12 To simplify the accompanying drawings, the component connecting the rack and cover 13 has been omitted. Therefore, in Figure 12 In the drawing, the rack is depicted as floating from cover 13, but it does not actually float.

[0079] In addition, such as Figure 13 As shown, the second limiting part LM2 can also be configured as follows: the force applied by the force-applying component SP2 applies force, and it remains upright as long as no force is applied from the outside. Figure 13 This is a diagram showing yet another example of the second limiting part LM2. Here, the force-applying component SP2 is, for example, a torsion spring; however, instead, it can be any force-applying component that can keep the second limiting part LM2 in an upright state as long as no external force is applied. Figure 13 The diagram shows the second limiting part LM2, which is in an upright state when force is applied in the mounting direction by the force-applying member SP2 on the opened cover 13. In this case, the second limiting part LM2 switches to a collapsed state by applying force in the removal direction. In this case, the printing apparatus 1 can also suppress vibrations caused by interference between the ink cartridge IC and the second limiting part LM2, and as a result, ink leakage from the ink cartridge IC can be suppressed more reliably.

[0080] The printing device 1 includes the printing section 11, the mounting section 12, and the cover 13. The mounting section 12 is provided at an upper portion of the ink cartridge IC in the vertical direction and is located closer to the cover 13 than the first restriction portion LM1 in a case where the ink cartridge IC is mounted to the mounting section 12. The mounting section 12 receives an operation to release the restriction by the first restriction portion LM1. The inclined portion TP is provided at a lower portion of the ink cartridge IC in the vertical direction and is located below the mounting section 12. The inclined portion TP is inclined upward in the vertical direction as it approaches the cover 13 in a case where the ink cartridge IC is mounted to the mounting section 12. The mounting section 12 includes the first guide portion GD3 that guides the inclined portion TP. The cover 13 includes the second restriction portion LM2 that protrudes toward the mounting section 12 and restricts the movement of the ink cartridge IC in a case where the state of the mounting section 12 is the closed state. The ink cartridge IC is displaced between a restricted position where the movement in the removal direction from the mounting section 12 toward the cover 13 is restricted by the first restriction portion LM1 and a released position where the restriction by the first restriction portion LM1 is released. The inclined portion TP is in contact with the first guide portion GD3 at the released position. When the ink cartridge IC is removed from the mounting section 12, the ink cartridge IC and the second restriction portion LM2 are relatively moved in such a manner that the ink cartridge IC does not interfere with the second restriction portion LM2. Thus, the printing device 1 can suppress interference between the ink cartridge IC and the second restriction portion LM2 when the ink cartridge IC is removed from the mounting section 12.

[0081] Further, a configuration described below can be employed. In the printing device 1, the second restriction portion LM2 does not overlap the ink cartridge IC when the printing device 1 is viewed from the mounting direction opposite to the removal direction in a case where the state of the mounting section 12 is switched from the closed state to the open state by the cover 13 and in a case where the ink cartridge IC is mounted to the mounting section 12.

[0082] Further, a configuration described below can be employed. In the printing device 1, the second restriction portion LM2 is a member that can switch between the erected state and the laid state.

[0083] Further, a configuration described below can be employed. In the printing device 1, the second restriction portion LM2 is laid in the removal direction when switched from the erected state to the laid state.

[0084] Further, a configuration described below can be employed. In the printing device 1, the second restriction portion LM2 switches between the erected state and the laid state by the dead weight.

[0085] Further, the printing device 1 can have a configuration described below. The printing device 1 has a state switching section LMM that switches the state of the second restriction section LM2. In a case where the state of the mounting section 12 is switched from the closed state to the open state by the cover 13, the state switching section LMM switches the second restriction section LM2 from the erected state to the laid state. In a case where the state of the mounting section 12 is switched from the open state to the closed state by the cover 13, the state switching section LMM switches the second restriction section LM2 from the laid state to the erected state.

[0086] Variation 1 of the embodiment

[0087] Next, variation 1 of the embodiment will be described. In variation 1 of the embodiment, in the printing device 1, instead of the second restriction section LM2 being a component that can switch between the erected state and the laid state, the configuration is such that, in a case where the state of the mounting section 12 is the open state, the cover 13 is opened to a position lower than the virtual face including the upper surface of the first guide section GD3, and the second restriction section LM2 is relatively moved with respect to the ink cartridge IC in a manner in which the second restriction section LM2 does not interfere with the ink cartridge IC. Thus, in a case where the ink cartridge IC is removed from the mounting section 12, the printing device 1 can relatively move the ink cartridge IC and the second restriction section LM2 in a manner in which the ink cartridge IC does not interfere with the second restriction section LM2. As a result, the printing device 1 can suppress leakage of ink from the ink cartridge IC.

[0088] Figure 14 is one example of a case of the printing device 1 in a state in which the cover 13 is opened. Figure 14 The face M1 shown is one example of a virtual face of an upper surface including the first guide section GD3. As shown in Figure 14 In variation 1 of the embodiment, as shown, in a case where the cover 13 is in the open state, that is, in a case where the state of the mounting section 12 is the open state, the cover 13 is opened to a position lower than the virtual face M1 including the upper surface of the first guide section GD3. That is, when the ink cartridge IC is detached from the mounting section 12 in the removal direction, the printing device 1 relatively moves the second restriction section LM2 with respect to the ink cartridge IC in a manner in which the second restriction section LM2 does not interfere with the ink cartridge IC. Thus, in the printing device 1, in a case where the state of the mounting section 12 is switched from the closed state to the open state by the cover 13, and in a case where the ink cartridge IC is mounted to the mounting section 12, when the printing device 1 is viewed from the mounting direction opposite the removal direction, the second restriction section LM2 does not overlap the ink cartridge IC. As a result, when the ink cartridge IC is detached from the mounting section 12, the printing device 1 can suppress interference between the ink cartridge IC and the second restriction section LM2.

[0089] Note that, as Figure 6As shown in FIG. 1, the cover 13 can be provided with a cover portion 13A that covers a portion of the outer surface of the printing device 1 when the cover 13 is in the closed state. The cover portion 13A protrudes in the vertical direction in the state in which the cover 13 is open. In this configuration, the cover 13 can be opened in such a manner that the front end of the cover portion 13A is positioned lower than the virtual surface M1 including the upper surface of the first guide portion GD3. Thus, when the ink cartridge IC is removed from the mounting portion 12 in the removal direction, interference between the ink cartridge IC and the cover portion 13A can be suppressed.

[0090] Variation 2 of the Embodiment

[0091] In Variation 2 of the Embodiment, the printing device 1 is configured to have a second guide portion GD4 that can switch between a posture in which the ink cartridge IC is guided when the ink cartridge IC is removed from the mounting portion 12 and a posture in which the ink cartridge IC is accommodated in the cover 13, instead of the second limiting portion LM2 being a component that can switch between the erected state and the laid state. When the ink cartridge IC is removed from the mounting portion 12, the second guide portion GD4 in the guiding posture guides the ink cartridge IC to a position higher than the upper end of the second limiting portion LM2 in the vertical direction. Thus, when the ink cartridge IC is removed from the mounting portion 12, the printing device 1 can relatively move the ink cartridge IC and the second limiting portion LM2 without interference therebetween. As a result, when the ink cartridge IC is removed from the mounting portion 12, the printing device 1 can suppress interference between the ink cartridge IC and the second limiting portion LM2.

[0092] Such a second guide portion GD4 is provided in the surface of the cover 13 in which the second limiting portion LM2 is provided. Figure 15 FIG. 1 is a view showing one example of the cover 13 provided with the second guide portion GD4. In Figure 15In the illustrated example, the second guide portion GD4 is a substantially flat plate-shaped member. Further, the second guide portion GD4 can rotate around a predetermined axis, and the guide posture and the storage posture can be switched by the rotation. In this example, the predetermined axis coincides with the rotation axis of the cover 13, but can also be a configuration that does not coincide with the rotation axis of the cover 13. The posture of the second guide portion GD4 is changed by the rotation of the second guide portion GD4 around the predetermined axis. More specifically, the second guide portion GD4 can switch a posture substantially parallel to the cover 13 and a posture inclined with respect to the cover 13 by the rotation around the predetermined axis. The posture substantially parallel to the cover 13 among the postures of the second guide portion GD4 means a posture in which a face of the cover 13 in which the second limiting portion LM2 is provided is substantially parallel to the largest face among the faces of the substantially rectangular flat plate-shaped second guide portion GD4. Further, the posture inclined with respect to the cover 13 among the postures of the second guide portion GD4 means a posture in which the largest face among the faces of the substantially rectangular flat plate-shaped second guide portion GD4 is inclined with respect to the face of the cover 13 in which the second limiting portion LM2 is provided.

[0093] Here, the second guide portion GD4 is formed with an opening through which the second limiting portion LM2 can be inserted. The opening is formed in the second guide portion GD4 in order that the second guide portion GD4 does not interfere with the second limiting portion LM2 when the posture of the second guide portion GD4 is the posture substantially parallel to the cover 13. Therefore, the second guide portion GD4 can become the posture substantially parallel to the cover 13 without interfering with the second limiting portion LM2. The storage posture of the aforementioned second guide portion GD4 is the posture substantially parallel to the cover 13. Note that the second guide portion GD4 can also be a configuration that is not formed with the opening through which the second limiting portion LM2 can be inserted. In this case, when the storage posture is assumed, the shape of the second guide portion GD4 is a shape that does not overlap the second limiting portion LM2 in a direction orthogonal to the face of the cover 13 in which the second limiting portion LM2 is provided, and the shape of the second guide portion GD4 can be any shape as long as the ink cartridge IC can be guided to a position higher than the upper end of the second limiting portion LM2 in the vertical direction when the ink cartridge IC is taken out from the mounting portion 12.

[0094] On the other hand, the guiding posture of the second guide portion GD4 is that the second guide portion GD4 is tilted relative to the cover 13. However, the guiding posture of the second guide portion GD4 is such that the second restricting portion LM2 is not inserted into the opening of the second guide portion GD4. As a result, objects guided by the side of the second guide portion GD4 that is not opposite to the cover 13 will not interfere with the second restricting portion LM2. As a result, when the ink cartridge IC is removed from the mounting portion 12, the guiding posture of the second guide portion GD4 can guide the ink cartridge IC to a position higher than the upper end of the second restricting portion LM2 in the vertical direction. That is, when the ink cartridge IC is removed from the mounting portion 12, the printing apparatus 1 can move the ink cartridge IC and the second restricting portion LM2 relative to each other in a manner that does not interfere with each other.

[0095] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the second guide section GD4 in a guiding posture. Figure 16 In the example shown, a force-applying member SP3 is provided between the second guide portion GD4 and the cover 13. This force-applying member SP3 applies force to the second guide portion GD4 to make its posture a guiding posture. The force-applying member SP3 is, for example, a spring; however, it can also be any other force-applying member capable of applying force to the second guide portion GD4 to make its posture a guiding posture. By providing such a force-applying member SP3 to the cover 13, thereby... Figure 17 When the cover 13 is closed, i.e., when the mounting part 12 is in the closed state, the second guide part GD4 is pushed by the ink cartridge IC to switch to the storage position. Figure 17 This diagram shows an example of the second guide section GD4 in the retracted position. In this case, by switching from the guiding position to the retracted position, the second guide section GD4 can suppress the rotation of the ink cartridge IC, and by switching from the retracted position to the guiding position, the second guide section GD4 can guide the ink cartridge IC to a position higher in the vertical direction than the upper end of the second limiting section LM2. The force-applying member SP3 is an example of a force-applying member included in a posture changing section that changes the posture of the second guide section GD4 between the guiding and retracted positions. It should be noted that the printing apparatus 1 may also be configured with other components that change the posture of the second guide section GD4 between the guiding and retracted positions as a posture changing section. Furthermore, because it has such a force-applying member SP3, the printing apparatus 1 can switch the posture of the second guide section GD4 in conjunction with the opening and closing of the cover 13 without requiring the user to perform additional operations to change the posture of the second guide section GD4. Therefore, the printing apparatus 1 does not need to have a component that accepts the operation of changing the state of the second limiting part LM2, which simplifies the structure of the cover 13.

[0096] Variation 3 of the embodiment

[0097] Next, variation 3 of the embodiment will be described. In variation 3 of the embodiment, in the printing device 1, instead of the second restriction portion LM2 being configured as a member that can switch between the erected state and the laid state, a third guide portion GD5 is provided that guides the ink cartridge IC toward the upper side of the removal direction when the ink cartridge IC is detached from the mounting portion 12.

[0098] Figure 18 is a view showing one example of the mounting portion 12 provided with the third guide portion GD5. Note that in Figure 18 , the cover 13 is omitted for simplicity of the drawing. Further, in Figure 18 , the appearance of the recessed portion 121 when none of the four ink cartridges IC are mounted to the mounting portion 12 is shown for easy observation of the case where the third guide portion GD5 is provided to the mounting portion 12. In Figure 18 , the example shown, the third guide portion GD5 is provided to the face of the recessed portion 121 that is closest to the right surface of the printing device 1. When the ink cartridge ICR is detached from the mounting portion 12, the third guide portion GD5 guides the ink cartridge ICR toward the upper side of the removal direction. As a result, the printing device 1 can guide the ink cartridge ICR to a position that is higher in the vertical direction than the upper end of the second restriction portion LM2. As a result, when the ink cartridge ICR is removed from the mounting portion 12, the printing device 1 can cause the ink cartridge ICR to move relative to the second restriction portion LM2 in a manner that the ink cartridge ICR does not interfere with the second restriction portion LM2, and can suppress interference between the ink cartridge ICR and the second restriction portion LM2 when the ink cartridge ICR is detached from the mounting portion 12. In order to achieve the guidance of the ink cartridge ICR by the third guide portion GD5 provided to the mounting portion 12, a protruding portion TH that is guided by the third guide portion GD5 is provided to the ink cartridge ICR.

[0099] Figure 19 is a view showing one example of the ink cartridge ICR provided with the protruding portion TH. In Figure 19 , the example shown, the protruding portion TH is provided to the face of the ink cartridge ICR that is closest to the right surface of the printing device 1 so that the ink cartridge ICR is guided by the third guide portion GD5 provided to the mounting portion 12 toward the upper side of the removal direction during detachment of the ink cartridge ICR from the mounting portion 12. Note that, as shown in Figure 20 , the face of the ink cartridge ICR that is closest to the left surface of the printing device 1 is provided with the third guide portion GD5. Figure 20is an example of the ink cartridge ICR provided with the third guide portion GD5. When the ink cartridge IC, which is mounted to the mounting portion 12 beside the ink cartridge ICR, is detached from the mounting portion 12, the third guide portion GD5 provided to the ink cartridge ICR guides the ink cartridge IC toward the removal direction to the upper side of the removal direction. In order to achieve such guidance of the ink cartridge IC, a protrusion portion TH guided by the third guide portion GD5 provided to the ink cartridge ICR is provided in the ink cartridge IC. Note that the respective configurations of the third guide portion GD5 and the protrusion portion TH provided to the ink cartridge IC are the same as those of the third guide portion GD5 and the protrusion portion TH provided to the ink cartridge ICR. Therefore, the respective configurations of the third guide portion GD5 and the protrusion portion TH provided to the ink cartridge IC are omitted from the description based on the drawing.

[0100] Further, when the ink cartridge ICB is detached from the mounting portion 12, the third guide portion GD5 provided to the ink cartridge IC guides the ink cartridge ICB toward the removal direction to the upper side of the removal direction. In order to achieve such guidance of the ink cartridge ICB, a protrusion portion TH guided by the third guide portion GD5 provided to the ink cartridge ICB is provided in the ink cartridge ICB. Note that the respective configurations of the third guide portion GD5 and the protrusion portion TH provided to the ink cartridge ICB are the same as those of the third guide portion GD5 and the protrusion portion TH provided to the ink cartridge ICR. Therefore, the respective configurations of the third guide portion GD5 and the protrusion portion TH provided to the ink cartridge ICB are omitted from the description based on the drawing.

[0101] Further, when the ink cartridge ICB is detached from the mounting portion 12, the third guide portion GD5 provided to the ink cartridge IC guides the ink cartridge ICB toward the removal direction to the upper side of the removal direction. In order to achieve such guidance of the ink cartridge ICB, a protrusion portion TH guided by the third guide portion GD5 provided to the ink cartridge ICB is provided in the ink cartridge ICB. Note that the respective configurations of the third guide portion GD5 and the protrusion portion TH provided to the ink cartridge ICB are the same as those of the third guide portion GD5 and the protrusion portion TH provided to the ink cartridge ICR. Therefore, the respective configurations of the third guide portion GD5 and the protrusion portion TH provided to the ink cartridge ICB are omitted from the description based on the drawing.

[0102] In addition, in order to assist the guidance of the ink cartridge ICB by the third guide portion GD5 of the ink cartridge ICK in the detachment of the ink cartridge ICK, a protrusion portion TH is provided in the mounting portion 12. More specifically, the protrusion portion TH is provided on a face of the mounting portion 12 that is closest to the left face of the printing device 1. Figure 21 is an example of the mounting portion 12 provided with the protrusion portion TH. In Figure 21 In the drawing, the cover 13 is omitted for simplification of the drawing.

[0103] Note that, in a case where the printing device 1 is viewed from the left surface thereof, and in a case where the four ink cartridges IC are all mounted to the mounting portion 12, the protruding portion TH provided to each of the four ink cartridges IC substantially overlaps the protruding portion TH provided to the mounting portion 12 except for a shift due to a mounting error. Further, in a case where the printing device 1 is viewed from the left surface thereof, and in a case where the four ink cartridges IC are all mounted to the mounting portion 12, the third guide portion GD5 provided to each of the four ink cartridges IC substantially overlaps the third guide portion GD5 provided to the mounting portion 12 except for a shift due to a mounting error.

[0104] As described above, in Modification 3 of the embodiment, the third guide portion GD5 and the protruding portion TH are provided to each of the mounting portion 12 and the four ink cartridges IC. Thereby, when the four ink cartridges IC are detached from the mounting portion 12, respectively, the fourth guide portion GD4 is guided toward the upper side of the removal direction. As a result, when the ink cartridge IC is detached from the mounting portion 12, the printing device 1 can suppress the ink cartridge IC from interfering with the second restriction portion LM2.

[0105] Here, Figures 22-25 A case where the ink cartridge ICR of Modification 3 of the embodiment is guided by the third guide portion GD5 when it is detached is shown. Figure 22 One example of a case of the ink cartridge ICR when it is mounted to the mounting portion 12 is shown. Figure 22 The protruding portion TH shown is the protruding portion TH provided to the ink cartridge ICR. Further, Figure 22 The third guide portion GD5 shown is the third guide portion GD5 provided to the ink cartridge ICR. Figure 22 The third guide portion GD5 of the mounting portion 12 shown in FIG. 17 is omitted in FIG. 18. Figure 23 is a view showing Figure 22 One example of a case of the ink cartridge ICR when the operation portion CL of the ink cartridge ICR shown is pressed from the top to the bottom is shown.

[0106] Figure 24 is a view showing Figure 23 One example of a case where the ink cartridge ICR shown is pulled out halfway toward the removal direction by the user is shown. In addition, Figure 25 is a view showing Figure 24 One example of a case where the ink cartridge ICR shown is pulled out further toward the removal direction by the user is shown. As Figures 22-25As shown, the ink cartridge ICR is guided by the third guide portion GD5 to above in the removal direction. Thus, when the ink cartridge ICR is detached from the mounting portion 12, the printing device 1 can suppress interference of the ink cartridge ICR with the second restriction portion LM2. Note that the respective actions of the ink cartridge ICG, the ink cartridge ICB, and the ink cartridge ICK when the ink cartridge ICG, the ink cartridge ICB, and the ink cartridge ICK are respectively detached are the same actions as the action of the ink cartridge ICR when such an ink cartridge ICR is detached. That is, for the four ink cartridges ICR, ICG, ICB, and ICK, when the ink cartridge I is detached from the mounting portion 12, the printing device 1 can suppress interference of the ink cartridge I with the second restriction portion LM2.

[0107] Note that the above-described matters can be combined arbitrarily.

[0108] For example, the first guide portion GD3 in the present embodiment is the lower surface of the recess 121, but instead, the printing device 1 can have another member that guides the inclined portion TP.

[0109] For example, the first restriction portion LM1 in the present embodiment is provided at the upper portion of the ink cartridge ICR, but instead, it can be provided at another portion of the ink cartridge ICR. Similarly, the position at which the operation portion CL is provided can be changed as appropriate.

[0110] Further, the present embodiment can also be applied to a printing device that can mount an ink cartridge having a shape and a configuration different from the ink cartridges ICR, ICG, ICB, and ICK. That is, the printing device 1 can be a printing device that includes a printing portion that performs printing on a printing medium, a mounting portion that can detachably mount a liquid container that has a liquid storage portion that stores a liquid supplied to the printing portion, and a cover that switches the state of the mounting portion between an open state in which the mounting portion is open and a closed state in which the mounting portion is closed, the liquid container including a first restriction portion that restricts detachment of the liquid container from the mounting portion and an operation portion that accepts an operation to cancel the restriction by the first restriction portion, the cover including a second restriction portion that protrudes toward the operation portion in the closed state of the mounting portion and restricts the action of the liquid container, the liquid container being displaceable between a restriction position at which the action in a first direction from the mounting portion toward the cover in a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction is restricted by the first restriction portion and a cancellation position at which the restriction by the first restriction portion is cancelled, the printing device being capable of relatively moving the liquid container and the second restriction portion in such a manner that the liquid container and the second restriction portion do not interfere with each other when the liquid container is taken out of the mounting portion.

[0111] Note that in the above-described printing device, matters of the embodiments and the modified examples 1 to 3 can be combined arbitrarily.

[0112] As explained above, the printing device according to the embodiment includes a printing section that performs printing on a printing medium; a mounting section to which a liquid container is detachably attached, the liquid container including a liquid storage section that stores a liquid supplied to the printing section; and a cover that switches a state of the mounting section between an open state in which the mounting section is open and a closed state in which the mounting section is closed, the liquid container including a first restriction section provided at an upper portion of the liquid container in a vertical direction and restricting detachment of the liquid container from the mounting section, an operation section provided at the upper portion of the liquid container in the vertical direction and located closer to the cover than the first restriction section in a case where the liquid container is attached to the mounting section, and accepting an operation to release the restriction by the first restriction section, and a tilt section provided at a lower portion of the liquid container in the vertical direction and located below the operation section, and tilted upward in the vertical direction as the cover is approached in the case where the liquid container is attached to the mounting section, the mounting section including a first guide section that guides the tilt section, and the cover including a second restriction section that protrudes toward the operation section in the closed state of the mounting section and restricts movement of the liquid container, the liquid container being displaceable between a restricted position at which movement in a first direction from the mounting section toward the cover in a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction is restricted by the first restriction section and a released position at which the restriction by the first restriction section is released and the tilt section is in contact with the first guide section, and the liquid container and the second restriction section being relatively movable without interference therebetween when the liquid container is removed from the mounting section. Thus, the printing device can suppress interference between the liquid container and the second restriction section when the liquid container is detached from the mounting section. Note that in the above-described example, the printing device 1 is one example of the printing device. Also, in the above-described example, the printing section 11 is one example of the printing section. Also, in the above-described example, the liquid storage section TK is one example of the liquid storage section. Also, in the above-described example, the ink cartridge IC is one example of the liquid container. Also, in the above-described example, the mounting section 12 is one example of the mounting section. Also, in the above-described example, the cover 13 is one example of the cover. Also, in the above-described example, the first restriction section LM1 is one example of the first restriction section. Also, in the above-described example, the operation section CL is one example of the operation section. Also, in the above-described example, the tilt section TP is one example of the tilt section. Also, in the above-described example, the first guide section GD3 is one example of the first guide section. Also, in the above-described example, the second restriction section LM2 is one example of the second restriction section.

[0113] Supplementary note [1]

[0115] A printing device includes

[0116] a printing section that performs printing on a printing medium;

[0117] a mounting section that can detachably mount a liquid container that has a liquid storage section that stores a liquid supplied to the printing section; and

[0118] a cover that switches a state of the mounting section between an open state in which the mounting section is opened and a closed state in which the mounting section is closed,

[0119] the liquid container has:

[0120] a first restriction section that is provided at an upper portion of the liquid container in a vertical direction and restricts detachment of the liquid container from the mounting section; and

[0121] an operation section that is provided at the upper portion of the liquid container in the vertical direction and, in a case where the liquid container is mounted to the mounting section, is located at a position closer to a vicinity of the cover than the first restriction section, accepts an operation to release the restriction based on the first restriction section, and

[0122] a tilt section that is provided at a lower portion of the liquid container in the vertical direction and is located below the operation section, in a case where the liquid container is mounted to the mounting section, tilts toward an upper portion in the vertical direction as it approaches the cover,

[0123] the mounting section has a first guide section that guides the tilt section,

[0124] the cover has a second restriction section that protrudes toward the operation section in a case where the state of the mounting section is the closed state, the second restriction section restricting movement of the liquid container,

[0125] the liquid container is displaceable between a restriction position at which movement in a first direction from the mounting section toward the cover in a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction is restricted by the first restriction section, and a release position at which the restriction based on the first restriction section is released and the tilt section is in contact with the first guide section,

[0126] when the liquid container is removed from the mounting section, the liquid container and the second restriction section are relatively moved in a manner in which the liquid container and the second restriction section do not interfere with each other. [2]

[0128] The printing device according to [1], wherein, when the mounting portion is opened by the cover, and, when the liquid container body is mounted to the mounting portion, the second restriction portion does not overlap the liquid container body when the printing device is viewed in a mounting direction opposite to the first direction. [3]

[0130] The printing device according to [1] or [2], wherein the second restriction portion is a member capable of switching between an erected state and a fallen state. [4]

[0132] The printing device according to [3], wherein the second restriction portion falls in the first direction when switched from the erected state to the fallen state. [5]

[0134] The printing device according to [3] or [4], wherein the second restriction portion switches between the erected state and the fallen state by self-weight. [6]

[0136] The printing device according to any one of [3] to [5], comprising:

[0137] a state switching portion that switches a state of the second restriction portion,

[0138] the state switching portion switches the second restriction portion from the erected state to the fallen state when the state of the mounting portion is switched from the closed state to the open state by the cover, and switches the second restriction portion from the fallen state to the erected state when the state of the mounting portion is switched from the open state to the closed state by the cover. [7]

[0140] The printing device according to [1], comprising:

[0141] a second guide portion that is capable of switching a posture to a guide posture that guides the liquid container body, and a storage posture that is stored in the cover, when the liquid container body is taken out of the mounting portion,

[0142] the second guide portion in the guide posture guides the liquid container body to a position that is higher than an upper end of the second restriction portion in a vertical direction, when the liquid container body is taken out of the mounting portion. [8]

[0144] The printing device according to [7], comprising:

[0145] a posture changing portion that changes the posture of the second guide portion between the guide posture and the storage posture,

[0146] The posture changing section switches the posture of the second guide section to the guide posture when the state of the mounting section is switched from the closed state to the open state by the lid, and switches the posture of the second guide section to the storage posture when the state of the mounting section is switched from the open state to the closed state by the lid. [9]

[0148] The printing device according to [8], the posture changing section includes:

[0149] A force applying section applies a force to the second guide section in a direction in which the posture of the second guide section becomes the guide posture.

[10]

[0151] The printing device according to [1], one of a third guide section and a protruding section is provided on one of two faces orthogonal to a width direction among faces that the liquid container body has, the width direction intersects the first direction and a vertical direction, the third guide section guides the liquid container body toward the first direction to above the first direction, the protruding section is guided by the third guide section,

[0152] The other of the third guide section and the protruding section is provided in the mounting section.

[11]

[0154] The printing device according to any one of [1] to

[10] , wherein,

[0155] The liquid container body includes:

[0156] A connecting section that is connected to a connected section provided to the mounting section and supplies the liquid; and

[0157] A guide groove that is provided to an outer surface of the connecting section, and is guided by a protrusion of the mounting section in a mounting process in which the liquid container body is mounted to the mounting section,

[0158] The guide groove includes a first guide surface that opens toward a front in a mounting direction opposite to the first direction, and extends toward the first direction, and a second guide surface that intersects the first guide surface.

[12]

[0160] The printing device according to

[11] , wherein,

[0161] In a case where the liquid container body is mounted to the mounting section, the first guide surface is inclined toward the first direction at a predetermined first angle to above the first direction,

[0162] The inclined portion is oriented toward the first direction and tilted upward toward the first direction at a second angle below the first angle.

[13]

[0164] According to the printing apparatus described in [1], wherein,

[0165] When the mounting portion is in the open state, the cover is opened to a position lower than the virtual surface including the upper surface of the first guide portion, thereby allowing the second limiting portion to move relative to the liquid container in a manner that does not interfere with the liquid container.

[0166] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and changes, substitutions, deletions, etc., may be made without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A printing device characterized by the printing device including: a printing section that performs printing on a printing medium; a liquid container that has a liquid storage section that stores a liquid supplied to the printing section; a mounting section that allows the liquid container to be attached to and detached from the mounting section; and a cover that switches a state of the mounting section between an open state in which the mounting section is opened and a closed state in which the mounting section is closed, the liquid container including: a first restriction section that is provided at an upper portion of the liquid container in a vertical direction and that restricts detachment of the liquid container from the mounting section; an operation section that is provided at the upper portion of the liquid container in the vertical direction and that, in a case where the liquid container is mounted to the mounting section, is located at a position closer to a vicinity of the cover than the first restriction section and that accepts an operation to release the restriction by the first restriction section; and a tilt section that is provided at a lower portion of the liquid container in the vertical direction and that is located below the operation section and that, in a case where the liquid container is mounted to the mounting section, tilts toward an upper portion in the vertical direction as the cover is approached, the mounting section including a first guide section that guides the tilt section, the cover including a second restriction section that, in a case where the state of the mounting section is the closed state, protrudes toward the operation section and that restricts movement of the liquid container, the liquid container being displaceable between a restriction position at which movement in a first direction from the mounting section toward the cover in a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction is restricted by the first restriction section and a release position at which the restriction by the first restriction section is released and the tilt section is in contact with the first guide section, when the liquid container is removed from the mounting section, the liquid container and the second restriction section are relatively moved in such a manner that the liquid container and the second restriction section do not interfere with each other. 2.The printing device according to claim 1, characterized in that in a case where the cover opens the mounting section and in a case where the liquid container is mounted to the mounting section, the second restriction section does not overlap the liquid container when the printing device is viewed in a mounting direction opposite to the first direction. 3.The printing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second restriction section is a member that is switchable between an erected state and a laid state. 4.The printing device according to claim 3, characterized in that the second restriction section is laid in the first direction when switched from the erected state to the laid state. 5.The printing device according to claim 3, characterized in that the second restriction section is switched between the erected state and the laid state by a dead weight. 6.The printing device according to claim 3, characterized by the printing device including a state switching section that switches a state of the second restriction section. ​ ​ The state switching section switches the second restriction section from the erected state to the laid state when the state of the mounting section is switched from the closed state to the open state by the lid, and switches the second restriction section from the laid state to the erected state when the state of the mounting section is switched from the open state to the closed state by the lid.

7. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the printing device includes a second guide section that is capable of switching a posture to a guide posture that guides the liquid container body when the liquid container body is removed from the mounting section, and a storage posture that is stored in the lid, the second guide section in the guide posture guides the liquid container body to a position that is higher than the upper end of the second restriction section in the vertical direction when the liquid container body is removed from the mounting section.

8. The printing device according to claim 7, wherein the printing device includes a posture changing section that changes the posture of the second guide section between the guide posture and the storage posture, the posture changing section switches the posture of the second guide section to the guide posture when the state of the mounting section is switched from the closed state to the open state by the lid, and switches the posture of the second guide section to the storage posture when the state of the mounting section is switched from the open state to the closed state by the lid.

9. The printing device according to claim 8, wherein the posture changing section includes a force applying member that applies a force to the second guide section in a direction in which the posture of the second guide section becomes the guide posture.

10. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein one of a third guide section that guides the liquid container body toward the first direction to an upper side of the first direction, and a protrusion section that is guided by the third guide section, is provided on one of two surfaces that are orthogonal to a width direction in the surfaces that the liquid container body has, the width direction intersecting the first direction and the vertical direction, the other of the third guide section and the protrusion section is provided in the mounting section.

11. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the liquid container body includes: a connection section that is connected to a connected section provided in the mounting section, and supplies the liquid; and a guide groove that is provided on an outer surface of the connection section, and is guided by a protrusion of the mounting section in a mounting process in which the liquid container body is mounted to the mounting section, the guide groove includes a first guide surface that is open to a front side in a front direction opposite to the first direction, and extends in the first direction; and a second guide surface that intersects the first guide surface.

12. The printing device according to claim 11, wherein ​ in a case where the liquid container is mounted to the mounting portion, the first guide surface is inclined upward of the first direction at a predetermined first angle toward the first direction, the inclined portion is inclined upward of the first direction at a second angle smaller than the first angle toward the first direction.

13. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein in a case where the state of the mounting portion is the open state, the cover is opened to a position lower than a virtual surface including an upper surface of the first guide portion, thereby relatively moving the second restriction portion with respect to the liquid container in a manner that the liquid container does not interfere with the second restriction portion.

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