Liquid ejection device and storage device

Abstract

A liquid ejecting apparatus and a storage apparatus are disclosed. The liquid ejecting apparatus includes a storage portion that stores a liquid between a first face and a second face, the second face being located in a first direction and opposite to the first face when viewed from the first face; an ejecting portion that ejects the liquid supplied from the storage portion; and a flexible printed substrate that detects a remaining amount of the liquid in the storage portion, the flexible printed substrate including a first wiring portion having an input electrode provided on the first face, and a second wiring portion having a first detection electrode, a second detection electrode, and a third detection electrode provided on the second face, the second detection electrode being disposed between the first detection electrode and the third detection electrode, an area of a first region of the input electrode overlapping with the first detection electrode being smaller than an area of a second region of the input electrode overlapping with the second detection electrode, and an area of a third region of the input electrode overlapping with the third detection electrode being smaller than the area of the second region when the storage portion is viewed in the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a liquid ejection device and a storage device. Background Technology

[0002] A technique for detecting the remaining amount of an object stored in a container has been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a technique related to a detection device comprising: a container storing an object between a first side and a second side; an input electrode disposed on the first side; a plurality of detection electrodes disposed on the second side and having the same size as each other; a shielding material covering the input electrode; a shielding material covering the detection electrode; and a detection unit that detects the remaining amount of an object stored in the container based on signals output from the plurality of detection electrodes.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-056079

[0004] However, in the prior art, there are cases where the signal level of the signal output from the end of the multiple detection electrodes is different from the signal level of the signal output from the central detection electrode. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the above problems, the liquid ejection device of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a storage section for storing liquid between a first surface and a second surface, wherein, when viewed from the first surface, the second surface is located in a first direction and opposite to the first surface; an ejection section for ejecting liquid supplied from the storage section; and a flexible printed circuit board for detecting the remaining amount of liquid in the storage section, the flexible printed circuit board comprising: a first wiring portion having an input electrode disposed on the first surface; and a second wiring portion having: a first detection electrode disposed on the second surface; a second detection electrode disposed on the second surface; and a third detection electrode disposed on the second surface, the second detection electrode being disposed between the first detection electrode and the third detection electrode, wherein, when the storage section is viewed along the first direction, the area of ​​a first region of the input electrode overlapping with the first detection electrode is smaller than the area of ​​a second region of the input electrode overlapping with the second detection electrode, and the area of ​​a third region of the input electrode overlapping with the third detection electrode is smaller than the area of ​​the second region.

[0006] Furthermore, the storage device according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: a storage section for storing an object between a first surface and a second surface, wherein, when viewed from the first surface, the second surface is located in a first direction and opposite to the first surface; and a flexible printed circuit board for detecting the remaining amount of the object in the storage section, the flexible printed circuit board comprising: a first wiring portion having an input electrode disposed on the first surface; and a second wiring portion having: a first detection electrode disposed on the second surface; a second detection electrode disposed on the second surface; and a third detection electrode disposed on the second surface, the second detection electrode being disposed between the first detection electrode and the third detection electrode, wherein, when the storage section is viewed along the first direction, the area of ​​a first region of the input electrode overlapping with the first detection electrode is smaller than the area of ​​a second region of the input electrode overlapping with the second detection electrode, and the area of ​​a third region of the input electrode overlapping with the third detection electrode is smaller than the area of ​​the second region. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram illustrating an example of an inkjet printer 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing an example of the structure of the ink supply device 1.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the structure of the ink supply device 1.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a top view showing an example of the structure of the ink management device FF[m].

[0011] Figure 5 This is a top view showing an example of the structure of the ink management device FF[m].

[0012] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the structure of the ink management device FF[m].

[0013] Figure 7 This is a top view showing an example of the structure of a flexible printed circuit board FP[m].

[0014] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of storage device 3.

[0015] Figure 9 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between liquid level height LV and amplitude Aout.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of ink balance determination processing.

[0017] Figure 11 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between liquid level LV and amplitude Aout in a comparative example.

[0018] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the structure of the ink supply device 1W according to the second embodiment.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the structure of the ink management device FF-W[m] according to the second embodiment.

[0020] Figure 14 This is a top view showing an example of the structure of the flexible printed circuit board FP-W[m] according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0022] 1…Ink supply device, 2…Ink quantity detection device, 3…Storage device, 4…Selection circuit, 5…Ink quantity information generation circuit, 7…Control device, 10A…Wall, 10B…Wall, 10C…Wall, 100…Inkjet printer, EA…Input electrode, EB1…Detection electrode, EB2…Detection electrode, EB3…Detection electrode, FA[m]…Wiring section, FB[m]…Wiring section, FC[m]…Wiring section, FF[m]…Ink management device, FP[m]…Flexible printed circuit board, LE…Wiring layer, LF1…Cover film layer, LF2…Cover film layer, LK…Substrate layer, LS…Shielding layer, SSA…Shielding electrode, SSB…Shielding electrode, TK[m]…Ink can. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, in the drawings, the dimensions and scales of each part are appropriately different from the actual dimensions and scales. Furthermore, since the embodiments described below are preferred specific examples of the present invention, various technically preferred limitations have been added. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments unless otherwise specified in the following description.

[0024] A. First Implementation Method

[0025] The inkjet printer 100 according to the first embodiment will be described below.

[0026] A.1. Overview of Inkjet Printers

[0027] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing the inkjet printer 100 according to this embodiment.

[0028] The inkjet printer 100 is an inkjet printing device that ejects ink IK onto a media PP. The media PP is typically printing paper, but any printing material such as resin film or fabric can also be used as the media PP.

[0029] Furthermore, in this embodiment, inkjet printer 100 is an example of a "liquid ejection device", and ink IK is an example of "liquid" and "object".

[0030] like Figure 1 As shown, the inkjet printer 100 includes: a storage device 3, including an ink supply device 1 and an ink quantity detection device 2; a control device 7; multiple liquid ejector heads HU; a moving mechanism 91; and a conveying mechanism 92.

[0031] The control device 7 includes, for example, processing circuits such as a CPU or FPGA, and storage circuits such as semiconductor memory, to control various elements of the inkjet printer 100. Here, CPU is short for Central Processing Unit, and FPGA is short for Field Programmable Gate Array.

[0032] The moving mechanism 91, under the control of the control device 7, transports the medium PP in the sub-scanning direction MP1.

[0033] Based on the control of the control device 7, the conveying mechanism 92 causes multiple liquid nozzles HU to reciprocate along a main scanning direction MH1 that intersects with the sub-scanning direction MP1 and a main scanning direction MH2 that is opposite to the main scanning direction MH1. The conveying mechanism 92 includes a housing 921 for accommodating the multiple liquid nozzles HU and an annular belt 922 for fixing the housing 921. In addition, the storage device 3 can also be housed together with the liquid nozzles HU in the housing 921.

[0034] The control device 7 supplies a drive signal Com to the liquid ejector head HU for driving the liquid ejector head HU and a control signal SI for controlling the liquid ejector head HU. Furthermore, the liquid ejector head HU, driven by the drive signal Com based on the control signal SI, ejects ink IK from some or all of the multiple nozzles provided on the liquid ejector head HU. That is, the liquid ejector head HU is linked to the transport of the medium PP by the moving mechanism 91 and the reciprocating movement of the liquid ejector head HU by the transport mechanism 92, causing ink IK to be ejected from some or all of the multiple nozzles. By causing the ejected ink to land on the surface of the medium PP, a desired image is formed on the surface of the medium PP.

[0035] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the liquid ejector head HU is an example of an "ejection section".

[0036] In the storage device 3, the ink supply device 1 stores ink IK. In addition, based on the control of the control device 7, the ink supply device 1 supplies the ink IK stored in the ink supply device 1 to the liquid nozzle HU.

[0037] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the ink supply device 1 stores M types of ink IK. Here, the value M is a natural number satisfying 1 ≤ M. More specifically, in this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the ink supply device 1 stores 4 types of ink IK corresponding to cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. That is, in this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that "M = 4". In addition, in this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the inkjet printer 100 has 4 liquid ejector heads HU corresponding to the 4 types of ink IK.

[0038] In the storage device 3, the ink level detection device 2 detects the remaining amount of ink IK stored in the ink supply device 1 based on the detection signal Vout detected from the ink supply device 1. Furthermore, the ink level detection device 2 outputs ink level information DR indicating the result of this detection. The detection signal Vout and the ink level information DR will be described later.

[0039] A.2. Overview of the Ink Supply System

[0040] The following is for reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The outline of ink supply device 1 will be described.

[0041] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the structure of the ink supply device 1.

[0042] like Figure 2 As shown, the ink supply device 1 includes: M ink cans TK[1] to TK[M] corresponding one-to-one with the M types of ink IK stored in the ink supply device 1; M flexible printed circuit boards FP[1] to FP[M] corresponding one-to-one with the M ink cans TK[1] to TK[M]; and a housing 21 for storing the M ink cans TK[1] to TK[M] and the M flexible printed circuit boards FP[1] to FP[M]. That is, in this embodiment, the ink supply device 1 includes: 4 ink cans TK[1] to TK[4] corresponding one-to-one with the 4 types of ink IK, namely cyan, magenta, yellow and black; and 4 flexible printed circuit boards FP[1] to FP[4] corresponding one-to-one with the 4 ink cans TK[1] to TK[4].

[0043] A supply port 19 is provided in the ink tank TK[m] for supplying ink IK into the internal space of the ink tank TK[m]. Additionally, a flexible printed circuit board FP[m] is fixed to the ink tank TK[m]. Here, the variable m is a natural number satisfying 1 ≤ m ≤ M. Hereinafter, the constituent elements including the ink tank TK[m] and the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] are sometimes referred to as ink management devices FF[m]. That is, the ink supply device 1 has M ink management devices FF[m] corresponding one-to-one with the M types of ink IK stored in the ink supply device 1. Furthermore, hereafter, the liquid ejector HU that ejects ink IK supplied from the ink tank TK[m] provided in the ink management devices FF[m] is sometimes referred to as a liquid ejector HU[m].

[0044] In this embodiment, it is envisioned that in the ink supply device 1, M ink tanks TK[1] to TK[M] are arranged in a manner that is aligned along the X1 direction of the X-axis.

[0045] Hereinafter, the X1 direction and the X2 direction opposite to the X1 direction will be collectively referred to as the X-axis direction. Similarly, the Y1 direction along the Y-axis, which is orthogonal to the X-axis direction, and the Y2 direction opposite to the Y1 direction will be collectively referred to as the Y-axis direction. Furthermore, the Z1 direction along the Z-axis, which is orthogonal to both the X-axis and Y-axis directions, and the Z2 direction opposite to the Z1 direction will be collectively referred to as the Z-axis direction. In this embodiment, it is envisioned that the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are mutually orthogonal. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis may simply intersect each other.

[0046] In addition, in this embodiment, it is envisioned that ink IK is supplied from ink tank TK[m] to liquid nozzle HU[m], and when the amount of ink IK stored inside ink tank TK[m] decreases, the direction of the decrease of ink IK is the Z1 direction.

[0047] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the X1 direction is an example of a "first direction", the Z1 direction is an example of a "second direction", and the Y1 direction is an example of a "third direction".

[0048] Figure 3 This is a top view showing the structure of the ink supply device 1 when viewed from the Z1 direction.

[0049] like Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the following situation is envisioned: In the ink supply device 1, when viewed from ink tank TK[1], ink tank TK[2] is provided in the X1 direction; when viewed from ink tank TK[2], ink tank TK[3] is provided in the X1 direction; and when viewed from ink tank TK[3], ink tank TK[4] is provided in the X1 direction.

[0050] Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is envisioned that the ink reservoir TK[m] is composed of multiple walls. Hereinafter, it is envisioned that the multiple walls of the ink reservoir TK[m] include walls 10A and 10B arranged along a surface with the X1 direction as the normal direction, walls 10C and 10D arranged along a surface with the Y1 direction as the normal direction, and walls 11 and 12 arranged along a surface with the Z1 direction as the normal direction. Furthermore, regarding walls 11 and 12, they will be discussed later... Figure 6 The diagram is shown in the figure.

[0051] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, it is envisioned that a flexible printed circuit board FP[m] is mounted relative to the ink can TK[m]. Specifically, in this embodiment, it is envisioned that the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] is fixed to walls 10A, 10C, and 10B among the plurality of walls of the ink can TK[m].

[0052] More specifically, in this embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] is bent along the outer wall surfaces of walls 10A and 10C at the bending portion EP-A, and along the outer wall surfaces of walls 10B and 10C at the bending portion EP-B. Thus, the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] is positioned in contact with the outer wall surfaces of ink tanks TK[m] in wall 10A, TK[m] in wall 10B, and TK[m] in wall 10C.

[0053] Hereinafter, the portion of the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] located on wall 10A will be referred to as wiring portion FA[m], the portion of the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] located on wall 10B will be referred to as wiring portion FB[m], and the portion of the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] located on wall 10C will be referred to as wiring portion FC[m]. Furthermore, the width of wiring portion FA[m] in the X1 direction will be referred to as width dxA, and the width of wiring portion FB[m] in the X1 direction will be referred to as width dxB.

[0054] Furthermore, in this embodiment, ink tank TK[m] is an example of a "storage section", the outer wall surface of ink tank TK[m] in wall 10A is an example of a "first surface", the outer wall surface of ink tank TK[m] in wall 10B is an example of a "second surface", the wiring portion FA[m] is an example of a "first wiring portion", and the wiring portion FB[m] is an example of a "second wiring portion".

[0055] A.3. Overview of Flexible Printed Substrates

[0056] The following is for reference Figures 4 to 7 This paper provides an overview of flexible printed circuit board FP[m].

[0057] Figure 4This is a top view of the wiring section FA[m] as seen when viewing the ink management device FF[m] from the X2 direction toward the X1 direction. Furthermore, in Figure 4 In the diagram, only the main parts of the wiring section FA[m] are transparently recorded.

[0058] like Figure 4 As shown, the wiring section FA[m] includes: a conductive input electrode EA disposed in the electrode forming region RA; a conductive shielding electrode SA1 disposed in the electrode forming region RA at a position in the Z2 direction when viewed from the input electrode EA; and a conductive shielding electrode SA2 disposed in the electrode forming region RA at a position in the Z1 direction when viewed from the input electrode EA.

[0059] Additionally, the wiring section FA[m] includes: a conductive connecting wiring HEA, disposed between the electrode forming region RA and the bending portion EP-A, and connected to the input electrode EA; a conductive connecting wiring HSA1, disposed between the electrode forming region RA and the bending portion EP-A, and positioned in the Z2 direction when viewed from the connecting wiring HEA, and connected to the shielding electrode SA1; and a conductive connecting wiring HSA2, disposed between the electrode forming region RA and the bending portion EP-A, and positioned in the Z1 direction when viewed from the connecting wiring HEA, and connected to the shielding electrode SA2.

[0060] Figure 5 This is a top view of the wiring section FB[m] as seen when viewing the ink management device FF[m] from the X1 direction towards the X2 direction. Furthermore, in Figure 5 In this document, only the main parts of the wiring section FB[m] are described in a transparent manner.

[0061] like Figure 5 As shown, the wiring section FB[m] includes: a conductive detection electrode EB1 disposed in the electrode formation region RB; a conductive detection electrode EB2 disposed in the electrode formation region RB, positioned in the Z1 direction when viewed from the detection electrode EB1; a conductive detection electrode EB3 disposed in the electrode formation region RB, positioned in the Z1 direction when viewed from the detection electrode EB2; a conductive shielding electrode SB1 disposed in the electrode formation region RB, positioned in the Z2 direction when viewed from the detection electrode EB1; a conductive shielding electrode SB2 disposed in the electrode formation region RB between the detection electrode EB1 and the detection electrode EB2; a conductive shielding electrode SB3 disposed in the electrode formation region RB between the detection electrode EB2 and the detection electrode EB3; and a conductive shielding electrode SB4 disposed in the electrode formation region RB, positioned in the Z1 direction when viewed from the detection electrode EB3.

[0062] In addition, in the present embodiment, the detection electrode EB1 is an example of the "first detection electrode", the detection electrode EB2 is an example of the "second detection electrode", and the detection electrode EB3 is an example of the "third detection electrode".

[0063] Hereinafter, the width of the detection electrode EB1 in the Z1 direction will be referred to as the width WEB1, the width of the detection electrode EB2 in the Z1 direction will be referred to as the width WEB2, and the width of the detection electrode EB3 in the Z1 direction will be referred to as the width WEB3. In the present embodiment, the detection electrodes EB1, EB2, and EB3 are arranged such that "WEB1 < WEB2" and "WEB3 < WEB2" are satisfied.

[0064] In addition, the wiring portion FB[m] includes: a conductive connection wiring HEB1 provided between the electrode formation region RB and the bent portion EP-B and connected to the detection electrode EB1; a conductive connection wiring HEB2 provided between the electrode formation region RB and the bent portion EP-B and arranged at a position in the Z1 direction when viewed from the connection wiring HEB1 and connected to the detection electrode EB2; a conductive connection wiring HEB3 provided between the electrode formation region RB and the bent portion EP-B and arranged at a position in the Z1 direction when viewed from the connection wiring HEB2 and connected to the detection electrode EB3; a conductive connection wiring HSB1 provided between the electrode formation region RB and the bent portion EP-B and arranged at a position in the Z2 direction when viewed from the connection wiring HEB1 and connected to the shielding electrode SB1; a conductive connection wiring HSB2 provided between the electrode formation region RB and the bent portion EP-B and arranged between the connection wiring HEB1 and the connection wiring HEB2 and connected to the shielding electrode SB2; a conductive connection wiring HSB3 provided between the electrode formation region RB and the bent portion EP-B and arranged between the connection wiring HEB2 and the connection wiring HEB3 and connected to the shielding electrode SB3; and a conductive connection wiring HSB4 provided between the electrode formation region RB and the bent portion EP-B and arranged at a position in the Z1 direction when viewed from the connection wiring HEB3 and connected to the shielding electrode SB4.

[0065] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the ink management device FF[m] is viewed along the Y-axis, the area where the electrode formation region RA overlaps with the wiring portion FB[m] and the electrode formation region RB are approximately the same. That is, in this embodiment, when the ink management device FF[m] is viewed along the Y-axis, the electrode formation region RA and the electrode formation region RB are approximately the same. Here, "approximately the same" means not only that they are completely identical, but also that they are considered identical if an error is taken into account. In this embodiment, "approximately the same" means that they are considered identical if an error of about 10% is taken into account. "Approximately consistent" is also the same as "approximately the same".

[0066] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the ink management device FF[m] when it is cut by a plane with a normal vector in the Y-axis direction, that is, a plane that passes through the electrode forming region RA and the electrode forming region RB.

[0067] like Figure 6 As shown, the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] is fixed to walls 10A, 10B, and 10C by double-sided adhesive tape DT. The flexible printed circuit board FP[m] includes: a non-conductive cover film layer LF1 bonded to the double-sided adhesive tape DT; a non-conductive cover film layer LF2; and a non-conductive substrate layer LK disposed between the cover film layer LF1 and the cover film layer LF2.

[0068] In addition, the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] includes: a wiring layer LE, disposed between the substrate layer LK and the cover film layer LF1, and configured with the above-mentioned input electrode EA, detection electrode EB1, detection electrode EB2, detection electrode EB3, shielding electrode SA1, shielding electrode SA2, shielding electrode SB1, shielding electrode SB2, shielding electrode SB3 and shielding electrode SB4; and a shielding layer LS, disposed between the substrate layer LK and the cover film layer LF2, and configured with conductive shielding electrode SSA and conductive shielding electrode SSB.

[0069] Furthermore, in the wiring layer LE, non-conductive partitions are provided between the input electrode EA and the shield electrode SA1, and between the input electrode EA and the shield electrode SA2. Additionally, in the wiring layer LE, non-conductive partitions are provided between the detection electrode EB1 and the shield electrode SB1, between the detection electrode EB1 and the shield electrode SB2, between the detection electrode EB2 and the shield electrode SB2, between the detection electrode EB2 and the shield electrode SB3, between the detection electrode EB3 and the shield electrode SB3, and between the detection electrode EB3 and the shield electrode SB4.

[0070] Furthermore, when viewing the wiring section FA[m] in the X1 direction, the shielding electrode SSA is arranged such that the shielding electrode SSA completely covers the input electrode EA. Additionally, when viewing the wiring section FB[m] in the X2 direction, the shielding electrode SSB is arranged such that the shielding electrode SSB completely covers the detection electrodes EB1, EB2, and EB3.

[0071] Hereinafter, the width of the shielding electrode SSA in the X1 direction will be referred to as the width dxSA, and the width of the shielding electrode SSB in the X1 direction will be referred to as the width dxSB.

[0072] Furthermore, in this embodiment, shielding electrodes SSA and SSB are provided such that the widths dxSA and dxSB are approximately the same. Additionally, in this embodiment, wiring portions FA[m] and FB[m] are provided such that the widths dxA and dxB are approximately the same.

[0073] like Figure 6 As shown, capacitor CC1 is formed between input electrode EA and detection electrode EB1, capacitor CC2 is formed between input electrode EA and detection electrode EB2, and capacitor CC3 is formed between input electrode EA and detection electrode EB3. The capacitance values ​​of capacitors CC1, CC2, and CC3 are determined based on the remaining amount of ink IK stored in ink reservoir TK[m]. Hereinafter, the distance from the wall 11, which is the bottom surface of ink reservoir TK[m], to the surface of the ink IK stored in ink reservoir TK[m] will be referred to as the liquid level height LV.

[0074] Figure 7 This is an unfolded diagram showing the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] after being removed from the ink can TK[m] and unfolded into a planar shape. Furthermore, in Figure 7 In this context, it is envisioned that the position and orientation of the wiring section FA[m] should not be determined by... Figure 4 The flexible printed circuit board FP[m] was unfolded in a manner that caused the wiring portions FC[m] and FB[m] to lie on the same plane as the wiring portion FA[m] due to changes in position and orientation. The X, Y, and Z axes are shown. Additionally, in Figure 7 The diagram only shows the wiring layer LE and the shielding layer LS in the flexible printed circuit board FP[m], and the diagrams of the substrate layer LK, the cover film layer LF1 and the cover film layer LF2 are omitted.

[0075] like Figure 7As shown, the wiring layer LE in the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] has through electrodes VEA, VSA1, VSA2, VEB1, VEB2, VEB3, VSB1, VSB2, VSB3, and VSB4 in the wiring portion FC[m].

[0076] In addition, the shielding layer LS in the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] includes terminals NEA, NSA1, NSA2, NEB1, NEB2, NEB3, NSB1, NSB2, NSB3, NSB4, NSSA1, NSSA2, NSSB1, and NSSB2.

[0077] Terminals NSSA1 and NSSA2 are connected to the shielding electrode SSA. Terminals NSSB1 and NSSB2 are connected to the shielding electrode SSB.

[0078] Additionally, through electrode VEA is connected to connecting wiring HEA and is connected to terminal NEA via a through-hole in substrate layer LK. Through electrode VSA1 is connected to connecting wiring HSA1 and is connected to terminal NSA1 via a through-hole in substrate layer LK. Through electrode VSA2 is connected to connecting wiring HSA2 and is connected to terminal NSA2 via a through-hole in substrate layer LK. Through electrode VEB1 is connected to connecting wiring HEB1 and is connected to terminal NEB1 via a through-hole in substrate layer LK. Through electrode VEB2 is connected to connecting wiring HEB2 and is connected to terminal NEB2 via a through-hole in substrate layer LK. Through electrode VEB3 is connected to connecting wiring HEB3 and is connected to terminal NEB3 via a through-hole in substrate layer LK. Through electrode VSB1 is connected to connecting wiring HSB1 and is connected to terminal NSB1 via a through-hole in substrate layer LK. Through electrode VSB2 is connected to connection wiring HSB2 and is also connected to terminal NSB2 via a through-hole provided in substrate layer LK. Through electrode VSB3 is connected to connection wiring HSB3 and is also connected to terminal NSB3 via a through-hole provided in substrate layer LK. Through electrode VSB4 is connected to connection wiring HSB4 and is also connected to terminal NSB4 via a through-hole provided in substrate layer LK.

[0079] A.4. Overview of Ink Volume Detection Device

[0080] The following is for reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 An overview of the ink volume detection device 2 will be provided.

[0081] Figure 8This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of a storage device 3, which includes an ink supply device 1 and an ink quantity detection device 2.

[0082] like Figure 8 As shown above, the storage device 3 includes an ink supply device 1 comprising ink management devices FF[m] and an ink quantity detection device 2. The ink quantity detection device 2 includes: M selection circuits 4 corresponding one-to-one with the M ink management devices FF[1] to FF[M] of the ink supply device 1; and M ink quantity information generation circuits 5 corresponding one-to-one with the M ink management devices FF[1] to FF[M] of the ink supply device 1. Furthermore, in Figure 8 For ease of explanation, only one ink management device FF[m] from the M ink management devices FF[1] to FF[M] of the ink supply device 1 is shown in the diagram. Additionally, in Figure 8 For ease of explanation, the diagram illustrates the selection circuit 4[m] corresponding to the ink management device FF[m] and the ink quantity information generation circuit 5[m] corresponding to the ink management device FF[m], among the M selection circuits 4 and M ink quantity information generation circuits 5 of the ink quantity detection device 2. Furthermore, in Figure 8 For ease of explanation, the ink management device FF[m] is illustrated as an equivalent circuit using capacitors CC1, CC2, and CC3 installed in the ink management device FF[m].

[0083] like Figure 8 As shown, terminal NEA of the ink management device FF[m] is electrically connected to AC power supply 22. AC power supply 22 supplies AC pulse signals, i.e., input signals Vin, to terminal NEA of the ink management device FF[m]. Furthermore, the input signal Vin input to terminal NEA of the ink management device FF[m] is transmitted as detection signal Vout1 via capacitor CC1 to terminal NEB1, as detection signal Vout2 via capacitor CC2 to terminal NEB2, and as detection signal Vout3 via capacitor CC3 to terminal NEB3. In this embodiment, detection signals Vout1, Vout2, and Vout3 are sometimes collectively referred to as detection signal Vout.

[0084] The selection circuit 4[m] has input terminals IN1, IN2, IN3, output terminal OS, switch SW1, switch SW2 and switch SW3.

[0085] Input terminal IN1 is electrically connected to terminal NEB1. When AC power supply 22 supplies input signal Vin to terminal NEA, a detection signal Vout1 is supplied from terminal NEB1 to input terminal IN1. Input terminal IN2 is electrically connected to terminal NEB2. When AC power supply 22 supplies input signal Vin to terminal NEA, a detection signal Vout2 is supplied from terminal NEB2 to input terminal IN2. Input terminal IN3 is electrically connected to terminal NEB3. When AC power supply 22 supplies input signal Vin to terminal NEA, a detection signal Vout3 is supplied from terminal NEB3 to input terminal IN3.

[0086] Additionally, switch SW1, based on the selection signal Sel supplied from control device 7, toggles whether to electrically connect input terminal IN1 and output terminal OS. Switch SW2, based on the selection signal Sel supplied from control device 7, toggles whether to electrically connect input terminal IN2 and output terminal OS. Switch SW3, based on the selection signal Sel supplied from control device 7, toggles whether to electrically connect input terminal IN3 and output terminal OS.

[0087] More specifically, selection circuit 4[m], based on selection signal Sel, electrically connects one input terminal IN selected by selection signal Sel from input terminals IN1, IN2, and IN3 to output terminal OS, and grounds the other two input terminals IN from input terminals IN1, IN2, and IN3 that are not selected by selection signal Sel, thus electrically disconnecting them from output terminal OS. Furthermore, selection circuit 4[m] outputs the detection signal Vout input to the selected input terminal IN as output signal VS from output terminal OS.

[0088] The ink quantity information generation circuit 5[m] includes an input terminal IN5, an output terminal O5, a bias circuit 51, a buffer circuit 52, a bandpass filter 53, a sample-and-hold circuit 54, a low-pass filter 55, an amplifier circuit 56, and an analog-to-digital conversion circuit 57.

[0089] The input terminal IN5 is electrically connected to the output terminal OS. When the AC power supply 22 supplies the input signal Vin to the terminal NEA, the output signal VS is supplied from the output terminal OS to the input terminal IN5. The input terminal IN5 is electrically connected to the input terminal of the buffer circuit 52 via the bias circuit 51.

[0090] The bias circuit 51 biases the output signal VS supplied to the input terminal IN5 to a specified bias voltage between the power supply voltage and the ground voltage.

[0091] The buffer circuit 52 outputs the output signal VS, which is biased by the bias circuit 51, to the bandpass filter 53.

[0092] The bandpass filter 53 selectively allows components of a specified frequency range in the signal supplied from the buffer circuit 52 to pass through, while removing other components.

[0093] The sample-and-hold circuit 54 samples the signal output from the bandpass filter 53 at a period based on the period of the input signal Vin supplied from the AC power supply 22, and holds the voltage value of the sampled signal until the operation of the analog-to-digital conversion circuit 57 ends. Additionally, the sample-and-hold circuit 54 outputs the sampled signal to the low-pass filter 55.

[0094] The low-pass filter 55 removes frequency components in the signal input to the low-pass filter 55 that are higher than a specified threshold, and outputs frequency components that are lower than the specified threshold to the amplifier circuit 56.

[0095] Amplifier circuit 56 amplifies the signal supplied from low-pass filter 55 at a specified amplification rate and outputs the amplified signal to analog-to-digital converter circuit 57.

[0096] The analog-to-digital converter 57 converts the analog signal output from the amplifier circuit 56 into a digital signal. Then, the analog-to-digital converter 57 outputs this digital signal to the control device 7. Furthermore, the signal supplied from the analog-to-digital converter 57 to the control device 7 is an ink quantity information DR signal representing the magnitude of the detection signal Vout selected by the selection circuit 4[m] as its output signal VS. Here, the ink quantity information DR represents the magnitude of the detection signal Vout, for example, the amplitude Aout of the detection signal Vout. However, the ink quantity information DR can also represent the effective value of the detection signal Vout.

[0097] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ink quantity information generation circuit 5[m] is an example of a "generation circuit".

[0098] Next, refer to Figure 9 The amplitude Aout of the detection signal Vout, which is represented by the ink volume information DR, is explained.

[0099] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate the relationship between the amplitude Aout of the detection signal Vout and the liquid level LV.

[0100] In addition, Figure 9In this context, the liquid level height LV1d is the height from the wall 11 to the end of the detection electrode EB1 in the Z1 direction. The liquid level height LV1u is the height from the wall 11 to the end of the detection electrode EB1 in the Z2 direction. That is, the liquid level range LV1 from the liquid level height LV1d to the liquid level height LV1 inside the ink tank TK[m] is the range of liquid level height LV from when the ink tank TK is at the lower end of the detection electrode EB1 to when it is at the upper end of the detection electrode EB1.

[0101] In addition, Figure 9 In this context, the liquid level height LV2d is the height from the wall 11 to the end of the detection electrode EB2 in the Z1 direction. The liquid level height LV2u is the height from the wall 11 to the end of the detection electrode EB2 in the Z2 direction. That is, the liquid level range LV2 from the liquid level height LV2d to the liquid level height LV2 inside the ink tank TK[m] is the range of liquid level height LV from when the ink tank TK is at the lower end of the detection electrode EB2 to when it is at the upper end of the detection electrode EB2.

[0102] In addition, Figure 9 In this context, the liquid level height LV3d is the height from the wall 11 to the end of the detection electrode EB3 in the Z1 direction. The liquid level height LV3u is the height from the wall 11 to the end of the detection electrode EB3 in the Z2 direction. That is, the liquid level range LV3 from the liquid level height LV3d to the liquid level height LV3 inside the ink tank TK[m] is the range of liquid level height LV from when the ink IK is at the lower end of the detection electrode EB3 to when it is at the upper end of the detection electrode EB3.

[0103] Generally, the relative permittivity of ink IK is greater than that of air. Therefore, when the space in ink reservoir TK[m] corresponding to the liquid level range LV1 between the input electrode EA and the detection electrode EB1 is filled with ink IK, the electrostatic capacitance of capacitor CC1 increases compared to when that space is filled with air. Similarly, when the space in ink reservoir TK[m] corresponding to the liquid level range LV2 between the input electrode EA and the detection electrode EB2 is filled with ink IK, the electrostatic capacitance of capacitor CC2 increases compared to when that space is filled with air. Likewise, when the space in ink reservoir TK[m] corresponding to the liquid level range LV3 between the input electrode EA and the detection electrode EB3 is filled with ink IK, the electrostatic capacitance of capacitor CC3 increases compared to when that space is filled with air.

[0104] Furthermore, generally speaking, when the area of ​​a capacitor is large, its electrostatic capacitance increases compared to when it is small. Specifically, when viewed along the X1 direction, if the area of ​​the overlapping portion between the detection electrode EB1 and the input electrode EA is large, the electrostatic capacitance of capacitor CC1 increases compared to when it is small. Similarly, when viewed along the X1 direction, if the area of ​​the overlapping portion between the detection electrode EB2 and the input electrode EA is large, the electrostatic capacitance of capacitor CC2 increases compared to when it is small. Furthermore, when viewed along the X1 direction, if the area of ​​the overlapping portion between the detection electrode EB3 and the input electrode EA is large, the electrostatic capacitance of capacitor CC3 increases compared to when it is small. Moreover, in this embodiment, as an example, it is envisioned that when viewed along the X1 direction, the input electrode EA, detection electrode EB1, detection electrode EB2, and detection electrode EB3 are completely covered by the input electrode EA. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the area of ​​the detection electrode EB1 is large, the electrostatic capacitance of capacitor CC1 increases compared to when it is small. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the area of ​​the detection electrode EB2 is large, the electrostatic capacitance of the capacitor CC2 increases compared to the case where it is small. Also, in this embodiment, when the area of ​​the detection electrode EB3 is large, the electrostatic capacitance of the capacitor CC3 increases compared to the case where it is small.

[0105] Furthermore, when the capacitance of capacitor CC1 is large, the amplitude Aout1 of the detection signal Vout1 increases compared to when the capacitance of capacitor CC1 is small. Similarly, when the capacitance of capacitor CC2 is large, the amplitude Aout2 of the detection signal Vout2 increases compared to when the capacitance of capacitor CC2 is small. Likewise, when the capacitance of capacitor CC3 is large, the amplitude Aout3 of the detection signal Vout3 increases compared to when the capacitance of capacitor CC3 is small.

[0106] Therefore, as Figure 9 As shown, when the liquid level LV is above the liquid level LV1u, the amplitude Aout1 of the detection signal Vout1 is larger compared to the case where the liquid level LV is below the liquid level LV1d. Furthermore, when the liquid level LV is above the liquid level LV2u, the amplitude Aout2 of the detection signal Vout2 is larger compared to the case where the liquid level LV is below the liquid level LV2d. Additionally, when the liquid level LV is above the liquid level LV3u, the amplitude Aout3 of the detection signal Vout3 is larger compared to the case where the liquid level LV is below the liquid level LV3d.

[0107] Specifically, in this embodiment, the detection electrode EB1 is configured such that the amplitude Aout1 of the detection signal Vout1 when the liquid level LV is LV1u or higher is a voltage VH, and the amplitude Aout1 of the detection signal Vout1 when the liquid level LV is LV1d or lower is a voltage VL smaller than VH. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the detection electrode EB2 is configured such that the amplitude Aout2 of the detection signal Vout2 when the liquid level LV is LV2u or higher is a voltage VH, and the amplitude Aout2 of the detection signal Vout2 when the liquid level LV is LV2d or lower is a voltage VL. Additionally, in this embodiment, the detection electrode EB3 is configured such that the amplitude Aout3 of the detection signal Vout3 when the liquid level LV is LV3u or higher is a voltage VH, and the amplitude Aout3 of the detection signal Vout3 when the liquid level LV is LV3d or lower is a voltage VL. Furthermore, Figure 9 The threshold voltage VTH shown is a voltage that is smaller than voltage VH and larger than voltage VL.

[0108] A.5. Overview of Ink Balance Determination and Processing

[0109] The following is for reference Figure 10 A summary of the ink balance determination process performed by the control device 7 will be provided. Here, the ink balance determination process refers to the process of determining the remaining ink IK stored in the ink tank TK[m] based on the ink quantity information DR.

[0110] like Figure 10 As shown, the control device 7 supplies the selection circuit 4[m] with a selection signal Sel (S101) to the switch SW1 corresponding to the detection electrode EB1 of the output detection signal Vout1. Thus, the control device 7 electrically connects the input terminal IN1 and the output terminal OS via the switch SW1, causing the selection circuit 4[m] to output the detection signal Vout1 as the output signal VS. Next, the control device 7 determines whether the amplitude Aout1 represented by the ink volume information DR output by the ink volume information generation circuit 5[m] is below the threshold voltage VTH (S103).

[0111] Then, if the result of the determination in step S103 is negative, that is, if the amplitude Aout1 represented by the ink quantity information DR is greater than the threshold voltage VTH, the control device 7 determines that the remaining amount of ink IK stored in the ink tank TK[m] is "excess" (S105), and ends. Figure 10 The ink balance determination process is shown below.

[0112] Furthermore, if the determination in step S103 is positive, that is, if the amplitude Aout1 represented by the ink volume information DR is below the threshold voltage VTH, the control device 7 supplies the selection circuit 4[m] with a selection signal Sel (S111) to the switch SW2 corresponding to the detection electrode EB2 of the output detection signal Vout2. Thus, the control device 7 electrically connects the input terminal IN2 and the output terminal OS via the switch SW2, causing the selection circuit 4[m] to output the detection signal Vout2 as the output signal VS.

[0113] Next, the control device 7 determines whether the amplitude Aout2 represented by the ink volume information DR output by the ink volume information generation circuit 5[m] is below the threshold voltage VTH (S113).

[0114] Then, if the result of the determination in step S113 is negative, that is, if the amplitude Aout2 represented by the ink quantity information DR is greater than the threshold voltage VTH, the control device 7 determines that the remaining amount of ink IK stored in the ink tank TK[m] is "medium" (S115), and ends the process. Figure 10 The ink level determination process is shown. Furthermore, when the ink level is "medium," the ink level in the ink canister is lower than when the ink level is "high."

[0115] Furthermore, if the determination in step S113 is positive, that is, if the amplitude Aout2 represented by the ink volume information DR is below the threshold voltage VTH, the control device 7 supplies the selection circuit 4[m] with a selection signal Sel (S121) to the switch SW3 corresponding to the detection electrode EB3 of the output detection signal Vout3. Thus, the control device 7 electrically connects the input terminal IN3 and the output terminal OS via the switch SW3, causing the selection circuit 4[m] to output the detection signal Vout3 as the output signal VS.

[0116] Next, the control device 7 determines whether the amplitude Aout3 represented by the ink volume information DR output by the ink volume information generation circuit 5[m] is below the threshold voltage VTH (S123).

[0117] Furthermore, if the determination in step S123 is negative, that is, if the amplitude Aout3 represented by the ink quantity information DR is greater than the threshold voltage VTH, the control device 7 determines that the remaining amount of ink IK stored in the ink tank TK[m] is "insufficient" (S125), and ends the process. Figure 10 The ink level determination process is shown. Furthermore, when the ink level is "low," the ink level in the ink canister is lower than when the ink level is "medium."

[0118] Furthermore, if the determination in step S123 is affirmative, that is, if the amplitude Aout3 represented by the ink quantity information DR is below the threshold voltage VTH, the control device 7 determines that the remaining amount of ink IK stored in the ink tank TK[m] is "none" (S127), and ends the process. Figure 10 The ink level determination process is shown. Furthermore, when the ink level is "zero," the ink level in the ink canister is lower than when the ink level is "low."

[0119] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the width WEB2 of the detection electrode EB2 in the Z1 direction is greater than the width WEB1 of the detection electrode EB1 in the Z1 direction, and also greater than the width WEB3 of the detection electrode EB3 in the Z1 direction. Hereinafter, to explain the effects of this embodiment, an inkjet printer described in the comparative example will be described. The inkjet printer described in the comparative example is configured similarly to the inkjet printer 100 according to this embodiment, except that the widths WEB2 and WEB1 of the detection electrode EB2 in the Z1 direction are approximately the same as those of the detection electrode EB3 in the Z1 direction.

[0120] Figure 11 This is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate the relationship between the amplitude Aout of the detection signal Vout in the inkjet printer involved in the comparative example and the liquid level height LV.

[0121] like Figure 11 As shown, in the comparative example, similarly to this embodiment, the detection electrode EB1 is configured such that the amplitude Aout1 of the detection signal Vout1 when the liquid level LV is above the liquid level LV1u is a voltage VH, and the amplitude Aout1 of the detection signal Vout1 when the liquid level LV is below the liquid level LV1d is a voltage VL. Similarly, the detection electrode EB3 is configured such that the amplitude Aout3 of the detection signal Vout3 when the liquid level LV is above the liquid level LV3u is a voltage VH, and the amplitude Aout3 of the detection signal Vout3 when the liquid level LV is below the liquid level LV3d is a voltage VL. On the other hand, in the comparative example, the amplitude Aout2 of the detection signal Vout2 when the liquid level LV is below the liquid level LV2d is a voltage VL, but the amplitude Aout2 of the detection signal Vout2 when the liquid level LV is above the liquid level LV2u is a voltage VH2, which is less than the voltage VH.

[0122] As described above, in the wiring section FB[m], there is only one electrode, the shielding electrode SB1, in the Z2 direction of the detection electrode EB1, and only one electrode, the shielding electrode SB4, in the Z1 direction of the detection electrode EB3. On the other hand, in the wiring section FB[m], there are three electrodes in the Z2 direction of the detection electrode EB2: the detection electrode EB1, the shielding electrode SB1, and the shielding electrode SB2. In addition, there are three electrodes in the Z1 direction of the detection electrode EB2: the detection electrode EB3, the shielding electrode SB3, and the shielding electrode SB4. That is, it is considered that the electric field between the input electrode EA and the detection electrode EB2 is affected by the electrodes other than the detection electrode EB2 in the wiring section FB[m] more than the electric field between the input electrode EA and the detection electrode EB1, and more than the electric field between the input electrode EA and the detection electrode EB3, due to the electrodes other than the detection electrode EB3 in the wiring section FB[m].

[0123] Therefore, as in the comparative example, when the width WEB2 of detection electrode EB2 is approximately the same as the width WEB1 of detection electrode EB1, and the width WEB2 of detection electrode EB2 is approximately the same as the width WEB3 of detection electrode EB3, such as Figure 11 As shown, the amplitude Aout2 of the detection signal Vout2 output from the detection electrode EB2 is smaller than the amplitude Aout1 of the detection signal Vout1 output from the detection electrode EB1, and smaller than the amplitude Aout3 of the detection signal Vout3 output from the detection electrode EB3. Therefore, in the comparative example, the control device 7 needs to prepare the following thresholds: a threshold for determining whether the remaining amount of ink IK stored in the ink tank TK[m] is "medium" or more than the amount corresponding to the liquid level range LV2; a threshold voltage VTH for determining whether the remaining amount of ink IK stored in the ink tank TK[m] is "more" or more than the amount corresponding to the liquid level range LV1; and a threshold voltage VTH for determining whether the remaining amount of ink IK stored in the ink tank TK[m] is "less" or more than the amount corresponding to the liquid level range LV3.

[0124] In contrast, in this embodiment, as described above, the width WEB2 of detection electrode EB2 is made larger than the width WEB1 of detection electrode EB1, and the width WEB2 of detection electrode EB2 is made larger than the width WEB3 of detection electrode EB3. That is, according to this embodiment, the electrostatic capacitance of capacitor CC2 can be made larger than the electrostatic capacitance of capacitor CC1, and the electrostatic capacitance of capacitor CC2 can be made larger than the electrostatic capacitance of capacitor CC3. Therefore, according to this embodiment, as... Figure 9As shown, detection electrodes EB1, EB2, and EB3 can be configured such that the amplitude Aout2 of the detection signal Vout2 output from detection electrode EB2 is approximately the same as the amplitude Aout1 of the detection signal Vout1 output from detection electrode EB1, and the amplitude Aout2 of the detection signal Vout2 output from detection electrode EB2 is approximately the same as the amplitude Aout3 of the detection signal Vout3 output from detection electrode EB3. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the control device 7 can share the determination threshold for determining whether the remaining amount of ink IK stored in ink tank TK[m] is "medium" or more corresponding to the liquid level range LV2, the threshold voltage VTH for determining whether the remaining amount of ink IK stored in ink tank TK[m] is "more" or more corresponding to the liquid level range LV1, and the threshold voltage VTH for determining whether the remaining amount of ink IK stored in ink tank TK[m] is "less" or more corresponding to the liquid level range LV3.

[0125] A.6. Summary of the First Implementation Method

[0126] As explained above, the inkjet printer 100 according to this embodiment is characterized by comprising: an ink tank TK[m] storing ink IK between walls 10A and 10B, wherein, when viewed from wall 10A, wall 10B is located in the X1 direction and opposite to wall 10A; a liquid ejection head HU[m] ejecting ink IK supplied from the ink tank TK[m]; and a flexible printed circuit board FP[m] for detecting the remaining amount of ink IK in the ink tank TK[m]. The flexible printed circuit board FP[m] includes: a wiring portion FA[m] having an input electrode EA disposed on wall 10A; and a wiring portion FB[m] has: a detection electrode EB1 disposed on wall 10B; a detection electrode EB2 disposed on wall 10B; and a detection electrode EB3 disposed on wall 10B. The detection electrode EB2 is disposed between the detection electrode EB1 and the detection electrode EB3. When the ink tank TK[m] is observed along the X1 direction, the area of ​​the region in the input electrode EA that overlaps with the detection electrode EB1 is smaller than the area of ​​the region in the input electrode EA that overlaps with the detection electrode EB2, and the area of ​​the region in the input electrode EA that overlaps with the detection electrode EB3 is smaller than the area of ​​the region in the input electrode EA that overlaps with the detection electrode EB2.

[0127] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the region of the input electrode EA that overlaps with the detection electrode EB1 is an example of a "first region", the region of the input electrode EA that overlaps with the detection electrode EB2 is an example of a "second region", and the region of the input electrode EA that overlaps with the detection electrode EB3 is an example of a "third region".

[0128] That is, in this embodiment, the area of ​​the region in the input electrode EA that overlaps with the detection electrode EB2 is larger than the area of ​​the region in the input electrode EA that overlaps with the detection electrode EB1, and the area of ​​the region in the input electrode EA that overlaps with the detection electrode EB2 is larger than the area of ​​the region in the input electrode EA that overlaps with the detection electrode EB3. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB2 can be made approximately the same as the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB1 and the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB3. That is, according to this embodiment, the signal level of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB2 can be made approximately the same as the signal level of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB1 and the signal level of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB3. Thus, according to this embodiment, signal processing of the signals detected from the detection electrodes EB1, EB2, and EB3 becomes easier compared to a method where the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB2 is different from the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB1 and the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB3.

[0129] Furthermore, the inkjet printer 100 according to this embodiment is characterized by comprising: an ink volume information generation circuit 5[m] that generates ink volume information DR related to the remaining amount of ink IK stored in the ink tank TK[m]; and a selection circuit 4[m] that selects one detection electrode EB from a plurality of detection electrodes EB including detection electrodes EB1, EB2 and EB3 provided in the wiring portion FB[m] of the wall 10B, and electrically connects the selected detection electrode EB to the ink volume information generation circuit 5[m]. When an input signal Vin is supplied to the input electrode EA, the ink volume information generation circuit 5[m] generates ink volume information DR based on the detection signal Vout detected from one detection electrode EB.

[0130] That is, according to this embodiment, since the inkjet printer 100 has a selection circuit 4[m], the ink volume information generation circuit 5[m] can receive signals from the detection electrodes EB1, EB2, and EB3. Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared to a method in which multiple ink volume information generation circuits 5[m] are provided, each corresponding one-to-one with a plurality of detection electrodes EB of the wiring portion FB[m], the structure of the inkjet printer 100 can be simplified.

[0131] Furthermore, in the inkjet printer 100 according to this embodiment, the selection circuit 4 [m] electrically disconnects the detection electrodes EB other than the one detection electrode EB from the ink volume information generation circuit 5 [m] when one detection electrode EB is selected from the plurality of detection electrodes EB.

[0132] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the ink quantity information generation circuit 5[m] is able to receive signals from the detection electrode EB1, the detection electrode EB2, and the detection electrode EB3.

[0133] Furthermore, in the inkjet printer 100 according to this embodiment, the wiring portion FB[m] is characterized by having a shielding electrode SB2 disposed between the detection electrode EB1 and the detection electrode EB2 in the wall 10B, and a shielding electrode SB3 disposed between the detection electrode EB2 and the detection electrode EB3 in the wall 10B.

[0134] Furthermore, in this embodiment, shielding electrode SB2 is an example of a "first shielding electrode", and shielding electrode SB3 is an example of a "second shielding electrode".

[0135] Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the situation where the signal detected from one of the detection electrodes EB1, EB2 and EB3 overlaps with the signal detected from the other detection electrodes EB as noise.

[0136] Furthermore, in the inkjet printer 100 according to this embodiment, the detection electrode EB1, detection electrode EB2 and detection electrode EB3 are arranged in the wall 10B in the Z1 direction which intersects the X1 direction. In the Z1 direction, the width WEB2 of detection electrode EB2 is greater than the width WEB1 of detection electrode EB1, and the width WEB2 of detection electrode EB2 is greater than the width WEB3 of detection electrode EB3.

[0137] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB2 can be made approximately the same as the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB1 and the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB3.

[0138] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example is given of providing three detection electrodes EB: detection electrode EB1, detection electrode EB2, and detection electrode EB3, on the wall 10B. However, the present invention is not limited to this method. For example, four or more detection electrodes EB may be provided on the wall 10B. In this case, multiple detection electrodes EB may be provided on the wall 10B such that the area of ​​the detection electrode EB located in the central part is larger than the area of ​​the detection electrodes EB located at the ends.

[0139] Hereinafter, the detection electrode EB located at the end in the Z1 direction among the plurality of detection electrodes EB provided on wall 10B will be referred to as end detection electrode EBT1, and the detection electrode EB located at the end in the Z2 direction will be referred to as end detection electrode EBT2. Furthermore, the distance in the Z1 direction between the detection electrode EB and the end detection electrode EBT1 will be referred to as distance dBT1, the distance in the Z1 direction between the detection electrode EB and the end detection electrode EBT2 will be referred to as distance dBT2, and the smaller of distances dBT1 and dBT2 will be referred to as distance dBT. In this case, for example, if the distance dBT corresponding to one of the plurality of detection electrodes EB provided on wall 10B is greater than the distance dBT corresponding to the other detection electrodes EB, the plurality of detection electrodes EB can be provided such that the area of ​​one detection electrode EB is larger than the area of ​​the other detection electrodes EB.

[0140] That is, in the inkjet printer 100 according to this embodiment, it is characterized in that the wiring portion FB[m] may have a plurality of detection electrodes EB disposed on the wall 10B, including detection electrodes EB1, EB2 and EB3, wherein the area of ​​one of the plurality of detection electrodes EB is greater than the area of ​​other detection electrodes EB whose distance dBT from the detection electrode EB located at the end of the plurality of detection electrodes EB is closer than that of one of the detection electrodes EB.

[0141] According to this method, the deviation of the amplitude of the signal detected from the multiple detection electrodes EB disposed on the wiring section FB[m] can be reduced.

[0142] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the detection electrodes EB1, EB2, and EB3 provided in the wiring portion FB[m] are illustrated in the Z1 direction, where the width WEB2 of detection electrode EB2 is greater than the width WEB1 of detection electrode EB1, and the width WEB2 of detection electrode EB2 is greater than the width WEB3 of detection electrode EB3. However, the present invention is not limited to this arrangement. For example, the detection electrodes EB1, EB2, and EB3 may also be provided in the Y1 direction, which intersects the Z1 direction, such that the width of detection electrode EB2 is greater than the width of detection electrode EB1, and the width of detection electrode EB2 is greater than the width of detection electrode EB3.

[0143] That is, the inkjet printer 100 according to this embodiment is characterized in that, on the wall 10B, the detection electrode EB1, the detection electrode EB2 and the detection electrode EB3 are arranged in the Z1 direction, and in the Y1 direction which intersects the X1 direction and the Z1 direction, the width of the detection electrode EB2 is greater than the width of the detection electrode EB1 and the width of the detection electrode EB2 is greater than the width of the detection electrode EB3.

[0144] According to this method, the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB2 can be made approximately the same as the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB1 and the amplitude of the signal detected from the detection electrode EB3.

[0145] B. Second Implementation Method

[0146] The following is for reference Figures 12 to 14 The inkjet printer according to the second embodiment will be described below. Furthermore, for elements in the various embodiments illustrated below that have the same function as those in the first embodiment, the symbols used in the description of the first embodiment will be retained, and their detailed descriptions will be appropriately omitted.

[0147] B.1. Inkjet printer according to the second embodiment

[0148] The inkjet printer according to the second embodiment differs from the inkjet printer 100 according to the first embodiment in that it has an ink supply device 1W instead of an ink supply device 1.

[0149] Figure 12 This is a top view showing the structure of the ink supply device 1 when viewed in the Z1 direction.

[0150] like Figure 12 As shown, the ink supply device 1W is similar to the ink management device FF-W[m] in that it replaces the ink management device FF[m]. Figure 3 The ink supply device 1 involved in the first embodiment shown is different.

[0151] The ink management device FF-W[m] differs from the ink management device FF[m] in the first embodiment in that it has a flexible printed circuit board FP-W[m] instead of a flexible printed circuit board FP[m].

[0152] The flexible printed circuit board FP-W[m] differs from the flexible printed circuit board FP[m] of the first embodiment in that it has a wiring portion FA-W[m] instead of a wiring portion FA[m] and a wiring portion FC-W[m] instead of a wiring portion FC[m]. That is, the flexible printed circuit board FP-W[m] of the second embodiment has a wiring portion FA-W[m], a wiring portion FB[m], and a wiring portion FC-W[m].

[0153] Hereinafter, the width of the wiring portion FA-W[m] in the X1 direction will be referred to as the width dxAW. Details will be described later; the width dxAW is less than the width dxA. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the width dxAW is less than the width dxB. That is, in this embodiment, the width dxAW of the wiring portion FA-W[m] in the X1 direction is less than the width dxB of the wiring portion FB[m] in the X1 direction.

[0154] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the ink management device FF-W[m] when the ink management device is cut through a plane with a normal vector in the direction of the Y-axis.

[0155] like Figure 13 As shown, the wiring portion FA-W[m] is the same as the wiring portion FA[m] according to the first embodiment in that it has a cover film layer LF1, a cover film layer LF2, and a wiring layer LE disposed between the cover film layer LF1 and the cover film layer LF2. However, it is different in that it does not have a substrate layer LK and a shielding layer LS disposed between the cover film layer LF1 and the cover film layer LF2. Figure 6 The wiring portion FA[m] involved in the first embodiment shown is different. That is, the wiring portion FA-W[m] is different from the wiring portion FA[m] in that it does not have a shielding layer LS containing the shielding electrode SSA.

[0156] Furthermore, the width dxAW in the X1 direction of the wiring portion FA-W[m] is determined based on the widths of the cover film layer LF1, the cover film layer LF2, and the wiring layer LE in the X1 direction. On the other hand, the width dxB in the X1 direction of the wiring portion FB[m] is determined not only based on the widths of the cover film layer LF1, the cover film layer LF2, and the wiring layer LE in the X1 direction, but also based on the widths of the substrate layer LK and the shielding layer LS in the X1 direction. Therefore, in this embodiment, the width dxAW is smaller than the width dxB.

[0157] Figure 14 This is an unfolded diagram of the flexible printed circuit board FP-W[m] after it has been removed from the ink can TK[m] and unfolded into a planar shape.

[0158] like Figure 14 As shown, the flexible printed circuit board FP-W[m] has the same characteristics as the shielding layer LS-W, replacing the shielding layer LS. Figure 7The flexible printed circuit board FP[m] shown in the first embodiment differs from that in the shielding layer LS-W. The shielding layer LS-W has a shielding electrode SSB in the portion corresponding to the wiring portion FB[m], which is the same as the shielding layer LS in the first embodiment. However, the shielding layer LS-W does not have a portion corresponding to the wiring portion FA-W[m], i.e., it does not have a shielding electrode SSA, which is different from the shielding layer LS in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the shielding layer LS-W does not have terminals such as terminals NSSA1 and NSSA2, which are connected to the shielding electrode SSA, in the portion corresponding to the wiring portion FC-W[m], which is different from the shielding layer LS in the first embodiment.

[0159] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the wall 10A provided in the ink tank TK[m] is sometimes referred to as wall 10A[m], and the wall 10B provided in the ink tank TK[m] is sometimes referred to as wall 10B[m]. In addition, in this embodiment, the input electrode EA of the wiring section FA-W[m] is sometimes referred to as input electrode EA[m], the detection electrodes EB1, EB2 and EB3 of the wiring section FB[m] are sometimes referred to as detection electrodes EB[m], and the shielding electrode SSB of the wiring section FB[m] is sometimes referred to as shielding electrode SSB[m].

[0160] B.2. Summary of the Second Implementation Method

[0161] As explained above, the inkjet printer according to the second embodiment is characterized by comprising: an ink tank TK[1] for storing ink IK in the space between wall 10A[1] and wall 10B[1] opposite to wall 10A[1]; an ink tank TK[2] for storing ink IK in the space between wall 10A[2] and wall 10B[2] opposite to wall 10A[2]; a liquid ejector HU[1] for ejecting ink IK supplied from ink tank TK[1]; a liquid ejector HU[2] for ejecting ink IK supplied from ink tank TK[2]; a flexible printed circuit board FP-W[1] for detecting the remaining amount of ink IK in ink tank TK[1]; and a flexible printed circuit board FP-W[2] for detecting the remaining amount of ink IK in ink tank TK[2]. The flexible printed circuit board FP-W[1] comprises: a wiring portion FA-W[1] including an input electrode E disposed on wall 10A[1]. A[1]; and wiring portion FB[1], including a detection electrode EB[1] disposed on wall 10B[1], flexible printed substrate FP-W[2] includes: wiring portion FA-W[2], including an input electrode EA[2] disposed on wall 10A[2]; and wiring portion FB[2], including a detection electrode EB[2] disposed on wall 10B[2], ink tank TK[1] and ink tank TK[2] are arranged such that wall 10B[1] is located between wall 10A[1] and wall 10A[2], wiring portion FB[1] has a shielding electrode SSB[1] located between detection electrode EB[1] and wiring portion FA-W[2] and used to shield detection electrode EB[1], wiring portion FA-W[2] is located between input electrode EA[2] and wiring portion FB[1] and does not have a shielding electrode SSA used to shield input electrode EA[2].Furthermore, in this embodiment, the surface of wall 10A[1] is an example of a "first surface", the surface of wall 10B[1] is an example of a "second surface", the surface of wall 10A[2] is an example of a "third surface", the surface of wall 10B[2] is an example of a "fourth surface", the ink tank TK[1] is an example of a "first storage section", the ink tank TK[2] is an example of a "second storage section", the liquid ejector HU[1] is an example of a "first ejection section", the liquid ejector HU[2] is an example of a "second ejection section", the flexible printed circuit board FP-W[1] is an example of a "first flexible printed circuit board", and the flexible printed circuit board F P-W[2] is an example of a "second flexible printed circuit board", input electrode EA[1] is an example of a "first electrode", detection electrode EB[1] is an example of a "second electrode", input electrode EA[2] is an example of a "third electrode", detection electrode EB[2] is an example of a "fourth electrode", shielding electrode SSB[1] is an example of a "first shielding electrode", wiring section FA-W[1] is an example of a "first wiring section", wiring section FB[1] is an example of a "second wiring section", wiring section FA-W[2] is an example of a "third wiring section", and wiring section FB[2] is an example of a "fourth wiring section".

[0162] Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared with the method of providing shielding electrodes SSA in the wiring section FA-W[2], the spacing between ink tanks TK[1] and TK[2] in the case of arranging ink tanks TK[1] and TK[2] can be narrowed. That is, according to this embodiment, compared with the method of providing shielding electrodes SSA in the wiring section FA-W[2], the space for storing ink tanks TK[1] and TK[2] in the case of arranging ink tanks TK[1] and TK[2] can be reduced.

[0163] Furthermore, the inkjet printer according to the second embodiment is characterized by comprising: an ink tank TK[3], which stores ink IK in the space between wall 10A[3] and wall 10B[3] opposite to wall 10A[3]; a liquid ejector HU[3], which ejects ink IK supplied from ink tank TK[3]; and a flexible printed circuit board FP-W[3] for detecting the remaining amount of ink IK in ink tank TK[3]. The flexible printed circuit board FP-W[3] comprises: a wiring portion FA-W[3], including an input electrode EA[3] disposed on wall 10A[3]; and a wiring portion FB. [3], including a detection electrode EB[3] disposed on wall 10B[3], ink tank TK[2] and ink tank TK[3] arranged in such a way that wall 10B[2] is located between wall 10A[2] and wall 10A[3], wiring portion FB[2] has a shielding electrode SSB[2] located between detection electrode EB[2] and wiring portion FA-W[3] for shielding detection electrode EB[2], wiring portion FA-W[3] does not have a shielding electrode SSA for shielding input electrode EA[3] between input electrode EA[3] and wiring portion FB[2].

[0164] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the surface of wall 10A[3] is an example of a "fifth surface", the surface of wall 10B[3] is an example of a "sixth surface", the ink tank TK[3] is an example of a "third storage section", the liquid ejector HU[3] is an example of a "third ejection section", the flexible printed circuit board FP-W[3] is an example of a "third flexible printed circuit board", the input electrode EA[3] is an example of a "fifth electrode", the detection electrode EB[3] is an example of a "sixth electrode", the wiring portion FA-W[3] is an example of a "fifth wiring portion", and the wiring portion FB[3] is an example of a "sixth wiring portion".

[0165] Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared with the method of setting the shielding electrode SSA in the wiring section FA-W[3], the spacing between ink tank TK[2] and ink tank TK[3] in the case of arranging ink tanks TK[1], TK[2] and TK[3] can be narrowed. That is, according to this embodiment, compared with the method of setting the shielding electrode SSA in the wiring section FA-W[3], the space for storing ink tanks TK[1], TK[2] and TK[3] in the case of arranging ink tanks TK[1], TK[2] and TK[3] can be reduced.

[0166] In addition, in the inkjet printer according to the second embodiment, the wiring portion FB[1] has an insulating substrate layer LK between the detection electrode EB[1] and the shielding electrode SSB[1], and the detection electrode EB[1] is disposed between the wall 10B[1] and the substrate layer LK.

[0167] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the deterioration of the detection electrode EB[1] caused by contact between the ink IK and external air can be suppressed.

[0168] Furthermore, the inkjet printer according to the second embodiment is characterized by having an ink volume detection device 2, which detects the remaining ink IK stored in the ink tank TK [1] based on the detection signal Vout1 detected from the detection electrode EB1 among the plurality of detection electrodes EB of the detection electrode EB [1] when an input signal Vin is supplied to the input electrode EA [1], and the detection signal Vout2 detected from the detection electrode EB2 disposed in the Z1 direction among the plurality of detection electrodes EB of the detection electrode EB [1] when an input signal Vin is supplied to the input electrode EA [1]. In addition, in this embodiment, the detection electrode EB1 is an example of a "first detection electrode", the detection electrode EB2 is an example of a "second detection electrode", the detection signal Vout1 is an example of a "first detection signal", the detection signal Vout2 is an example of a "second detection signal", the Z1 direction is an example of a "first direction", and the ink volume detection device 2 is an example of a "detection unit".

[0169] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the remaining amount of ink IK in the ink canister TK[1] can be monitored in stages.

[0170] Furthermore, in the inkjet printer according to the second embodiment, the ink quantity detection device 2 detects the remaining amount of ink IK stored in the ink tank TK[1] based on the detection signal Vout3 detected from the detection electrode EB3 among the plurality of detection electrodes EB of the detection electrode EB[1] when the input signal Vin is supplied to the input electrode EA[1].

[0171] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the detection electrode EB3 is an example of a "third detection electrode", and the detection signal Vout3 is an example of a "third detection signal".

[0172] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the remaining amount of ink IK in the ink canister TK[1] can be monitored in stages.

[0173] Furthermore, in the inkjet printer according to the second embodiment, the input signal Vin is characterized as an AC signal.

[0174] In the first and second embodiments described above, an AC input signal Vin is input to the input electrode EA[m]. Therefore, it is possible to generate ink quantity information DR that suppresses deviations in dielectric constant caused by the type of ink IK.

[0175] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example is illustrated of providing three detection electrodes EB: detection electrode EB1, detection electrode EB2, and detection electrode EB3, on the wall 10B. However, the present invention is not limited to this arrangement. For example, four or more detection electrodes EB can be provided on the wall 10B, or two detection electrodes EB can be provided.

[0176] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example is given where the width WEB2 of the detection electrode EB2 in the Z1 direction is greater than the width WEB1 of the detection electrode EB1 in the Z1 direction and also greater than the width WEB3 of the detection electrode EB3 in the Z1 direction. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. In this embodiment, the width WEB2 of the detection electrode EB2 in the Z1 direction may also be approximately the same as the width WEB1 of the detection electrode EB1 in the Z1 direction, and the width WEB2 of the detection electrode EB2 in the Z1 direction may also be approximately the same as the width WEB3 of the detection electrode EB3 in the Z1 direction.

[0177] C. Variations

[0178] The methods illustrated above can be modified in various ways. Specific modifications are illustrated below. Two or more methods selected from the following examples can be appropriately combined, provided they do not contradict each other.

[0179] Variation Example 1

[0180] In the first and second embodiments described above, ink IK, as a "liquid," was illustrated as an example of the object stored in the ink container TK[m]. However, the present invention is not limited to this method. The ink container TK[m] may also store objects other than ink IK. For example, fluids such as oil or gel-like objects may be stored in the ink container TK[m].

[0181] Variation Example 2

[0182] In the above-described embodiments and variations 1, the ink level detection device 2 is illustrated as having M selection circuits 4 and M ink level information generation circuits 5, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The ink level detection device 2 may have one or more selection circuits 4 and one or more ink level information generation circuits 5.

[0183] Variation Example 3

[0184] In the above-described embodiments and variations 1 and 2, a serial inkjet printer 100 is illustrated in which the housing 921 equipped with the liquid ejector head HU[m] reciprocates in the X-axis direction; however, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The inkjet printer 100 may also be a row-type liquid ejection device equipped with a liquid ejector head HU[m] capable of ejecting ink IK across the entire width of the medium PP.

[0185] Variation Example 4

[0186] The liquid ejection apparatus described in the embodiments and variations 1 to 3 above, exemplified by the inkjet printer 100, can be used not only in printing equipment but also in various other devices such as fax machines and copiers. However, the application of the liquid ejection apparatus of the present invention is not limited to printing. For example, a liquid ejection apparatus that ejects a solution of color material is used as an apparatus for manufacturing color filters for liquid crystal display devices. Furthermore, a liquid ejection apparatus that ejects a solution of conductive material is used as an apparatus for manufacturing wiring and electrodes for forming wiring substrates.

Claims

1. A liquid discharge apparatus characterized by comprising: Possessing: a storage portion that stores a liquid between a first face and a second face, the second face being located in a first direction and opposite the first face when viewed from the first face; an ejection portion that ejects the liquid supplied from the storage portion; and a flexible printed board that detects a remaining amount of the liquid in the storage portion, the flexible printed board possesses: a first wiring portion that has an input electrode provided to the first face; and a second wiring portion that has: a first detection electrode provided to the second face; a second detection electrode provided to the second face; and a third detection electrode provided to the second face, the second detection electrode is disposed between the first detection electrode and the third detection electrode, an area of a first region of the input electrode that overlaps the first detection electrode is smaller than an area of a second region of the input electrode that overlaps the second detection electrode, and an area of a third region of the input electrode that overlaps the third detection electrode is smaller than the area of the second region when the storage portion is viewed in the first direction, in the second face, the first detection electrode, the second detection electrode, and the third detection electrode are disposed in a second direction that intersects the first direction, in the second direction, a width of the second detection electrode is greater than a width of the first detection electrode, and a width of the second detection electrode is greater than a width of the third detection electrode.

2. A liquid discharge apparatus characterized by comprising: Possessing: a storage portion that stores a liquid between a first face and a second face, the second face being located in a first direction and opposite the first face when viewed from the first face; an ejection portion that ejects the liquid supplied from the storage portion; and a flexible printed board that detects a remaining amount of the liquid in the storage portion, the flexible printed board possesses: a first wiring portion that has an input electrode provided to the first face; and a second wiring portion that has: a first detection electrode provided to the second face; a second detection electrode provided to the second face; and a third detection electrode provided to the second face, the second detection electrode is disposed between the first detection electrode and the third detection electrode, an area of a first region of the input electrode that overlaps the first detection electrode is smaller than an area of a second region of the input electrode that overlaps the second detection electrode, and an area of a third region of the input electrode that overlaps the third detection electrode is smaller than the area of the second region when the storage portion is viewed in the first direction, in the second face, the first detection electrode, the second detection electrode, and the third detection electrode are disposed in a second direction that intersects the first direction, in a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction, a width of the second detection electrode is greater than a width of the first detection electrode, and a width of the second detection electrode is greater than a width of the third detection electrode.

3. The liquid ejection device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by Possessing: a generation circuit that generates remaining amount information related to a remaining amount of a liquid stored in the storage portion; and a selecting one of the plurality of detection electrodes provided on the second face from the second wiring portion, and electrically connecting the selected one of the detection electrodes to the generation circuit, the generation circuit generates the margin information based on a detection signal detected from the one of the detection electrodes in a case where an input signal is supplied to the input electrode.

4. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the selection circuit electrically cuts off the detection electrodes other than the one of the detection electrodes from the plurality of detection electrodes from the generation circuit in a case where the one of the detection electrodes is selected from the plurality of detection electrodes.

5. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second wiring portion has the plurality of detection electrodes including the first detection electrode, the second detection electrode, and the third detection electrode, and is provided on the second face, an area of one of the plurality of detection electrodes is larger than an area of another of the plurality of detection electrodes which is closer to an end electrode located at an end portion than the one of the plurality of detection electrodes.

6. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second wiring portion has: a first shield electrode provided between the first detection electrode and the second detection electrode in the second face; and a second shield electrode provided between the second detection electrode and the third detection electrode in the second face.

7. A storage device, characterized by has: a storage portion which stores an object between a first face and a second face, the second face being located in a first direction and opposite to the first face when viewed from the first face; and a flexible printed substrate for detecting a margin of the object in the storage portion, the flexible printed substrate has: a first wiring portion having an input electrode provided on the first face; and a second wiring portion having: a first detection electrode provided on the second face; a second detection electrode provided on the second face; and a third detection electrode provided on the second face, the second detection electrode is disposed between the first detection electrode and the third detection electrode, an area of a first region of the input electrode which overlaps with the first detection electrode is smaller than an area of a second region of the input electrode which overlaps with the second detection electrode, and an area of a third region of the input electrode which overlaps with the third detection electrode is smaller than the area of the second region when the storage portion is viewed in the first direction, in the second face, the first detection electrode, the second detection electrode, and the third detection electrode are disposed in a second direction which intersects the first direction, in the second direction, a width of the second detection electrode is larger than a width of the first detection electrode, and the width of the second detection electrode is larger than a width of the third detection electrode.

8. A storage device, characterized by has: a storage portion that stores an object between a first face and a second face, the second face being located in a first direction and opposite the first face when viewed from the first face; and a flexible printed board for detecting a remaining amount of the object in the storage portion, the flexible printed board includes: a first wiring portion having an input electrode provided on the first face; and a second wiring portion having: a first detection electrode provided on the second face; a second detection electrode provided on the second face; and a third detection electrode provided on the second face, the second detection electrode is disposed between the first detection electrode and the third detection electrode, an area of a first region of the input electrode that overlaps the first detection electrode is smaller than an area of a second region of the input electrode that overlaps the second detection electrode, and an area of a third region of the input electrode that overlaps the third detection electrode is smaller than the area of the second region when the storage portion is viewed in the first direction, in the second face, the first detection electrode, the second detection electrode, and the third detection electrode are disposed in a second direction that intersects the first direction, in a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction, a width of the second detection electrode is greater than a width of the first detection electrode, and a width of the second detection electrode is greater than a width of the third detection electrode.

9. Storage device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that includes: generating circuitry that generates remaining amount information related to a remaining amount of an object stored in the storage portion; and selecting circuitry that selects one detection electrode from a plurality of detection electrodes including the first detection electrode, the second detection electrode, and the third detection electrode that the second wiring portion has provided on the second face, and electrically connects the selected one detection electrode to the generating circuitry, in a case where an input signal is supplied to the input electrode, the generating circuitry generates the remaining amount information based on a detection signal detected from the one detection electrode.

10. The storage device according to claim 9, wherein in a case where the selecting circuitry selects one detection electrode from the plurality of detection electrodes, the selecting circuitry electrically cuts off detection electrodes other than the one detection electrode from the plurality of detection electrodes from the generating circuitry.

11. The storage device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the second wiring portion has a plurality of detection electrodes including the first detection electrode, the second detection electrode, and the third detection electrode provided on the second face, an area of one detection electrode of the plurality of detection electrodes is greater than an area of another detection electrode of the plurality of detection electrodes that is closer to an end electrode located at an end portion than the one detection electrode.

12. The storage device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the second wiring portion includes: a first shield electrode provided between the first detection electrode and the second detection electrode in the second face; and a second shield electrode provided between the second detection electrode and the third detection electrode in the second face.

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