Liquid discharge apparatus, coating apparatus, liquid discharge method, and method of manufacturing electrode

Abstract

A liquid discharge apparatus includes a liquid chamber including a discharge orifice; a supply unit configured to supply pressurized liquid to the liquid chamber; a first valve member provided in the liquid chamber and including a valve portion configured to open and close the discharge orifice; a moving unit configured to move the first valve member; and a stirring mechanism configured to stir the pressurized liquid in the liquid chamber.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a liquid discharge apparatus, a coating apparatus, a liquid discharge method, and a method for manufacturing an electrode. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, a liquid discharge device is known that applies pressure to a liquid in a liquid chamber having a discharge orifice to discharge the liquid from the discharge orifice.

[0003] As a liquid discharge device, an arrangement is also disclosed, which includes a discharge port, a liquid chamber for supplying pressurized liquid to the discharge port, a valve member arranged in the chamber to open and close the discharge port, a drive mechanism for driving the valve member, and a drive mechanism receiving space for accommodating the drive mechanism (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] Citation List

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent No. 4123897 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] The liquid discharge device needs to perform a stable discharge operation.

[0009] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a liquid discharge device capable of performing a stable discharge operation.

[0010] Solution to the problem

[0011] A liquid discharge device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a liquid chamber including a discharge orifice, a supply unit configured to supply pressurized liquid to the liquid chamber, a first valve member disposed in the liquid chamber and including a valve portion configured to open and close the discharge orifice, a moving unit configured to move the first valve member, and a stirring mechanism configured to stir the pressurized liquid in the liquid chamber.

[0012] Invention Effects

[0013] According to this disclosure, a liquid discharge device capable of performing a stable discharge operation can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of the liquid discharge device according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A magnified view of region A.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional arrangement of the controller according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a graph showing a first example of the drive voltage of the actuator according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a graph illustrating a first example of the movement of the valve portion corresponding to the driving voltage according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a graph showing a second example of the drive voltage of the actuator according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a graph illustrating a second example of the movement of the valve section corresponding to the driving voltage according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of the liquid discharge device according to the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a graph showing a first example of the drive voltage of the actuator according to the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 10 This is a graph showing a first example of the movement of the valve section corresponding to the driving voltage according to the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 11 This is a graph showing a second example of the drive voltage of the actuator according to the second embodiment.

[0025] Figure 12 This is a graph illustrating a second example of the movement of the valve section corresponding to the driving voltage according to the second embodiment.

[0026] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the head according to the second embodiment, wherein a view of the discharge port in a closed state is shown on the upper side and a view of the discharge port in a closed state is shown on the lower side.

[0027] Figure 14 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional arrangement of a controller according to a third embodiment.

[0028] Figure 15 This is a graph showing a first example of the drive voltage of the actuator according to the fourth embodiment.

[0029] Figure 16This is a graph showing a first example of the movement of the valve section corresponding to the driving voltage according to the fourth embodiment.

[0030] Figure 17 This is a graph showing a second example of the drive voltage of the actuator according to the fourth embodiment.

[0031] Figure 18 This is a graph illustrating a second example of the movement of the valve section corresponding to the driving voltage according to the fourth embodiment.

[0032] Figure 19 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional arrangement of the controller according to the fifth embodiment.

[0033] Figure 20 This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of the liquid discharge device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0034] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 A magnified view of region A.

[0035] Figure 22 This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of the liquid discharge device according to the seventh embodiment.

[0036] Figure 23 This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of the liquid discharge device according to the eighth embodiment.

[0037] Figure 24 This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of the liquid discharge device according to the ninth embodiment.

[0038] Figure 25 This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of the coating apparatus according to the tenth embodiment.

[0039] Figure 26 This is a view showing a first example of the arrangement of the coating apparatus relative to the target object according to the tenth embodiment.

[0040] Figure 27 This is a view showing a second example of the arrangement of the coating apparatus relative to the target object according to the tenth embodiment.

[0041] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an electrode manufacturing apparatus for implementing a method for manufacturing electrodes according to this embodiment.

[0042] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of an electrode manufacturing apparatus for implementing a method of manufacturing an electrode according to this embodiment.

[0043] Figure 30 This is a view illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an electrode according to this embodiment.

[0044] Figure 31 This is a view illustrating another example of a method for manufacturing an electrode according to this embodiment.

[0045] Figure 32A This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of printing units that perform printing using an intermediate transfer drum by employing a transfer printing method.

[0046] Figure 32B This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of printing units that perform printing using a ring-shaped intermediate transfer belt by employing a transfer printing method. Detailed Implementation

[0047] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals will denote the same parts, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0048] The embodiments described below present liquid discharge devices and methods as examples embodying the technical concept of this disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Unless otherwise stated, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative arrangements, etc., of the components described below are intended to be exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, for clarity, the dimensions and positional relationships of the components shown in the accompanying drawings may be exaggerated.

[0049] Note that the X and Y axes can be used to indicate the corresponding directions in the accompanying drawings presented below. Arrows oriented along the X-axis in the X direction indicate the +X direction or +X side, and the direction opposite to the +X direction indicates the -X direction or -X side. Similarly, arrows oriented along the Y-axis in the Y direction indicate the +Y direction or +Y side, and the direction opposite to the +Y direction indicates the -Y direction or -Y side. However, note that these directions are not intended to limit the orientation of the liquid discharge device according to this embodiment when it is to be used. The orientation of the liquid discharge device according to this embodiment can be suitably set.

[0050] The liquid discharge device according to this embodiment is an apparatus comprising a liquid chamber having a discharge orifice, a supply unit for supplying pressurized liquid to the liquid chamber, a first valve member disposed in the liquid chamber and including a valve portion for opening and closing the discharge orifice, a moving unit for moving the first valve member, and a controller for controlling the movement of the first valve member by means of the moving unit.

[0051] The movement of the first valve component includes a first movement and a second movement. In the first movement, the valve part moves from a second position to a first position. In the second movement, the valve part reciprocates between the first position and a third position. The first position is the position where the discharge port is open. The second position is the position where the discharge port is closed by the valve part. The third position is the position between the first position and the second position.

[0052] When the valve moves to the first position, the discharge port opens, allowing pressurized liquid supplied from the supply unit to be discharged. Conversely, when the valve moves to the second position, the discharge port closes, preventing liquid from being discharged. By controlling the discharge operation through the first movement of the valve, the liquid discharge device according to this embodiment can form patterns, such as images, on a target object using liquid, or can coat the target object with liquid. Furthermore, increasing the pressure applied to the liquid can increase the distance the liquid to be discharged travels or increase the amount of liquid to be discharged.

[0053] However, depending on the properties of the liquid to be discharged, when the valve is in the first position, the flow path of the liquid in the liquid chamber may become blocked while the liquid is being discharged. This can prevent liquid discharge or prevent the desired amount of liquid from being discharged in the desired direction and at the desired rate, resulting in unstable discharge operation.

[0054] In cases involving highly viscous liquids, highly thixotropic liquids, highly concentrated liquids, or liquids containing large particles, discharge operations can easily become unstable because viscous liquids or particles tend to clog channels. Note that in this specification and the appended claims, "highly thixotropic" refers to the physical property of a liquid whose standard state is a high viscosity state but whose state changes to a low viscosity and high fluidity state upon stirring.

[0055] In this embodiment, the first valve member moves during the second movement, causing the valve section to reciprocate between a first position and a third position. This movement of the first valve member causes the pressure applied to the liquid to fluctuate within the liquid chamber, thereby agitating the liquid while it is being discharged. Therefore, viscous liquid or particles blocking the liquid passage can be loosened, or the state of liquid passage closure caused by deformation of the first valve member due to liquid flow can be reduced. As a result, the state of liquid passage clogging in the liquid chamber by viscous liquid or particles can be prevented during liquid discharge, thereby stabilizing the discharge operation.

[0056] An example of a liquid discharge device for manufacturing electrochemical devices will be described below. Note that although secondary batteries and capacitors are generally presented as examples of electrochemical devices, the liquid discharge device according to this embodiment can be suitably used in the manufacture of lithium-ion secondary batteries.

[0057] <First Embodiment>

[0058] Arrangement of Liquid Discharge Device 1

[0059] Reference Figure 1 and 2 The arrangement of the liquid discharge device 1 according to the first embodiment is described. Figure 1 This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of the liquid discharge device 1. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A magnified view of region A.

[0060] like Figure 1 As shown, the liquid discharge device 1 includes a head 100, a liquid supply unit 110, and a controller 120. In the liquid discharge device 1, the liquid supply unit 110 supplies liquid 200 to the head 100 via a first liquid channel, and the controller 120 controls the head 100 to discharge the liquid 200. Liquid 200 that is not discharged from the head 100 returns to the liquid supply unit 110 via a lower channel. Note that... Figure 1 A perspective view of the interior of head 100 is shown.

[0061] like Figure 1 and 2 As shown, the head 100 includes an actuator 101, a first valve member 103, and a liquid chamber 106.

[0062] Each actuator 101 includes a piezoelectric element that expands and contracts according to an applied voltage. In this embodiment, the piezoelectric element may be a (vertical displacement type) piezoelectric element that operates in d33 mode and can expand and contract in the Y direction in response to an applied voltage. The material of the piezoelectric element may be, for example, lead zirconate titanate (PZT). The piezoelectric element according to this embodiment may be a stacked piezoelectric element, wherein multiple piezoelectric elements have been stacked in the Y direction to increase the amount of displacement accompanying expansion and contraction.

[0063] The end of each actuator 101 on the -Y side is connected and fixed to the frame 102, and the end of each actuator 101 on the +Y side is connected to the end of the corresponding first valve member 103 on the -Y side. The actuator 101 is an example of a moving unit, wherein a piezoelectric element expands and contracts according to an applied voltage to move the first valve member 103. In this embodiment, the actuator 101 moves the first valve member 103 in the Y direction. The actuator 101 is also an example of a stirring mechanism. Note that the stirring mechanism may be separate from the moving unit.

[0064] The head 100 includes a plurality of liquid chambers 106 arranged along the X direction. Each of the plurality of liquid chambers 106 includes a discharge port 105. The discharge port 105 is a through hole for discharging liquid 200 and is formed on a discharge port plate 109, which forms a wall on the +Y side of the liquid chamber 106. The liquid chamber 106 stores liquid 200 inside, and the liquid 200 is discharged from the interior of the liquid discharge chamber 106 to the exterior through the discharge port 105.

[0065] The liquid 200 according to this embodiment can be, for example, a liquid with a viscosity greater than 10 mPa·s, a liquid with a thixotropic index greater than 1.3 representing structural viscosity, a liquid with a solids content greater than 20% by weight, or a liquid containing particles with a particle size greater than 5 μm. The particles that can be contained in the liquid 200 can be particles used as electrode materials, and can be, for example, carbon that can be used as an anode active material, lithium transition metal oxide that can be used as a cathode active material, or ceramics used to form a functional layer to impart electrode function.

[0066] Each first valve member 103 is configured such that the +Y side portion of the first valve member 103 is received in a corresponding liquid chamber 106. The first valve member 103 includes a metallic material or the like, and may be a plurality of needle-shaped or rod-shaped members extending in the Y direction.

[0067] Each of the plurality of first valve members 103 is paired with a corresponding one of the plurality of liquid chambers 106. The +Y side portion of each first valve member 103 is inserted into the corresponding liquid chamber 106 and is configured to be movable in the Y direction. The gap formed between the first valve member 103 and the inner wall of the liquid chamber 106 forms a separate liquid channel 108 in which liquid 200 flows.

[0068] The end of the first valve member 103 located on the discharge port 105 side forms a valve portion 104 for opening and closing the discharge port 105. The actuator 101 can move the first valve member 103 in the Y direction according to the applied voltage to set the discharge port 105 to an open state or a closed state.

[0069] More specifically, when the piezoelectric element of actuator 101 contracts in the Y direction according to the applied voltage, the first valve member 103 moves to the -Y side, causing the valve portion 104 to move away from the discharge port 105, thereby setting the discharge port to an open state. When the piezoelectric element of actuator 101 expands in the Y direction according to the applied voltage, the first valve member 103 moves to the +Y side, causing the valve portion 104 to block the discharge port 105, thereby setting the discharge port to a closed state.

[0070] Liquid supply unit 110 may be an example of a supply unit for supplying pressurized liquid 200 to liquid chamber 106. Liquid supply unit 110 may include liquid reservoir 111, air compressor 112, air box 113, air filter 114, and regulator 115.

[0071] To maintain the pressure of the compressed air generated by the air compressor 112, the liquid supply unit 110 temporarily holds the compressed air in the air chamber 113. Subsequently, after the regulator 115 depressurizes the compressed air to the pressure required to discharge the liquid 200 through the air filter 114 and remove debris, moisture, oil, etc., the liquid supply unit 110 pressurizes the interior of the liquid storage section 111. The liquid 200 pressurized by the liquid supply unit 110 is supplied to each of the plurality of liquid chambers 106 via the manifold 107. Note that the arrangement order of the regulator 115 and the air filter 114 can be switched so that after the air filter 114 has removed debris, moisture, oil, etc., the regulator 115 can depressurize the compressed air to the pressure required to discharge the liquid 200.

[0072] Since the liquid 200 is pressurized by the liquid supply unit 110, when the discharge port 105 is opened by the valve section 104, the liquid 200 is discharged to the outside through the discharge port 105. When the discharge port 105 is closed by the valve section 104, it is set to a non-discharge state where no liquid 200 is discharged.

[0073] Controller 120 is an example of a control unit for controlling the movement of the first valve member 103 via a corresponding actuator 101. (See reference...) Figure 3 Describe the arrangement of controller 120.

[0074] In this embodiment, actuator 101 is exemplified by an actuator including a piezoelectric element. However, actuator 101 is not limited to this. Actuator 101 may include at least one of, for example, an electromagnet that generates a magnetic field according to an applied voltage, a cylinder that converts compressed air energy into linear movement according to an applied voltage, a motor actuator driven according to an applied voltage, or a hydraulic mechanism that generates hydraulic pressure according to an applied voltage. Even when using these components, effects similar to those achieved when using a piezoelectric element can be obtained.

[0075] Alternatively, the head 100 may include an actuator 101, which includes a piezoelectric element operating in d31 mode. The actuator 101 may include, for example, a hollow nozzle body having a discharge orifice at its distal end for discharging liquid and an inlet for spraying liquid near the discharge orifice; a piezoelectric element incorporated in the nozzle body and expanding and contracting in response to an externally applied voltage; a valve member for opening and closing the discharge orifice; a sealing member fitted onto the valve member and preventing ink from flowing into the side of the piezoelectric element; and a pair of leads connected to the electrodes of the piezoelectric element and capable of applying voltage thereto.

[0076] Note that this will be referenced later. Figure 4 and 5 describe Figure 2 The positions shown are first position P1, second position P2, and third position P3, which indicate the positions of the valve section 104 closer to the end of the discharge port 105.

[0077] <Example of the functional layout of controller 120>

[0078] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional layout of controller 120. (Example) Figure 3 As shown, the controller 120 may include an input unit 121, a drive voltage generator 122, an amplifier 123, and an output unit 124. These functions can be implemented by electronic circuitry. Alternatively, some of these functions can be implemented by software (central processing unit [CPU]). Furthermore, these functions can be implemented by multiple circuits or multiple software implementations.

[0079] In response to pattern data Im input from the image processing device via input unit 121, controller 120 causes drive voltage generator 122 to generate drive voltage to cause head 100 to perform a first drive operation or a second drive operation. After amplifying the drive voltage generated by drive voltage generator 122 by amplifier 123, controller 120 outputs the amplified drive voltage to each actuator 101 via output unit 124.

[0080] <Example of the drive voltage of actuator 101 and the movement of valve 104>

[0081] Next, we will refer to Figure 4 and 5 Describes the drive voltage used to drive actuator 101 and the movement of valve 104. Figure 4 This is a graph showing a first example of the drive voltage of actuator 101. Figure 5 This shows the valve section 104 according to Figure 4 The first example of the curve showing the shift in the driving voltage.

[0082] Each Figure 4 and 5 The horizontal axis represents time. Figure 4 The vertical axis represents the value of the driving voltage. Figure 5 The vertical axis represents the position of valve section 104 in the Y direction. Figure 4 The horizontal axis indicates the time and is determined by Figure 5 The horizontal axis indicates the time matching. Figure 5 The position of the valve section 104 shown is based on Figure 4 The value of the driving voltage varies as shown.

[0083] The value of the driving voltage and the position of the valve 104 have an approximately linear relationship. An approximately linear relationship means that the relationship is linear overall, but it can include deviations from the line, such as linear errors or time delays in the position of the valve 104 relative to the applied voltage.

[0084] By outputting a waveform of the drive voltage generated by the drive voltage generator 122 and amplified by the amplifier 123 to the head 100, the controller 120 can provide a time-varying drive voltage to the actuator 101, such as... Figure 4 As shown.

[0085] When a first voltage E1 is applied to the actuator 101, the piezoelectric element of the actuator 101 contracts in the Y direction, causing the first valve member 103 to move in the -Y direction, causing the valve portion 104 to move away from the discharge port 105 to open the discharge port 105. In this case, the end of the valve portion 104 closer to the discharge port 105 is positioned at the first position P1.

[0086] When a second voltage E2, higher than the first voltage E1, is applied to the actuator 101, the piezoelectric element of the actuator 101 expands in the Y direction, causing the first valve member 103 to move in the +Y direction, so that the valve portion 104 blocks the discharge port 105 to close the discharge port 105. In this case, the end of the valve portion 104 closer to the discharge port 105 is in the second position P2.

[0087] When a third voltage E3, which is higher than the first voltage E1 but lower than the second voltage E2, is supplied to the actuator 101, the end of the valve section 104 closer to the discharge port 105 moves to the third position P3 between the first position P1 and the second position P2.

[0088] In other words, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101 to move the valve section 104 to a first position P1, applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101 to move the valve section 104 to a second position P2, and applies a third voltage E3 to the actuator 101 to move the valve section 104 to a third position P3. The first voltage E1 may be lower than the second voltage E2. The third voltage E3 may be higher than the first voltage E1 but lower than the second voltage E2.

[0089] The changes in the value of the driving voltage and the position of the valve 104 will be described in time series. First, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101, causing the valve 104 to move to the second position P2 to completely close the discharge port 105. Subsequently, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101, causing the valve 104 to move from the second position P2 to the first position P1 to completely open the discharge port 105. Liquid 200 is discharged from the discharge port 105 in this fully open state. The movement of the valve 104 from the second position P2 to the first position P1 corresponds to a first movement M1.

[0090] After time t1 [seconds] has elapsed since the liquid 200 began to be discharged, the controller 120 applies a third voltage E3 to the actuator 101 to move the valve 104 from the first position P1 to the third position P3. Although the discharge port 105 changes to a state where it is not fully open, the liquid 200 continues to be discharged because the discharge port 105 is not closed.

[0091] Subsequently, after a further elapsed time t2, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101 to move the valve 104 to the first position P1. The discharge port 105 is fully opened, and the liquid 200 continues to discharge. The reciprocating movement of the valve 104 from the first position P1 to the third position P3 and then back to the first position P1 corresponds to the second movement M2.

[0092] Subsequently, in a similar manner, the controller 120 repeatedly performs the operation of applying a third voltage E3 to the actuator 101 after time t1 and further applying a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101 after time t2. This repeated execution of the above operation allows the head 100 to discharge liquid 200 while causing the valve section 104 to reciprocate between a first position P1 and a third position P3. As a result, pressure fluctuations are generated in the liquid 200 in the liquid chamber 106, thereby agitating the liquid 200.

[0093] When the discharge operation is to be stopped, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101 to close the discharge port 105.

[0094] Although there is no particular limitation on the time t1 for applying the third voltage E3, the time t1 can preferably be longer than or equal to the time taken for the valve 104 to move to the third position P3 according to the application of the third voltage E3. This makes it easier to adjust the displacement by driving voltage.

[0095] From the perspective of achieving beneficial effects through pressure fluctuations and stirring, the third voltage E3 can preferably satisfy E2>E3≥(E2-E1)×0.05+E1. For example, the first voltage E1 can be 10V, the second voltage E2 can be 100V, and the third voltage E3 can be 20V, etc. The time t1 can be 100 microseconds, and the time t2 can be 10 microseconds, etc.

[0096] <Impact of Liquid Discharge Device 1>

[0097] As described above, the liquid discharge device 1 may include a liquid chamber 106 with a corresponding discharge port 105, a liquid supply unit 110 (supply unit) for supplying pressurized liquid 200 to the liquid chamber 106, a first valve member 103 disposed in the corresponding liquid chamber 106, an actuator 101 (moving unit) for moving the corresponding first valve member 103, and a controller 120 (control unit) for controlling the movement of each first valve member 103 via the corresponding actuator 101. The movement of each first valve member 103 includes a first movement M1 and a second movement M2. In the first movement M1, the valve part 104 moves from a second position P2 to a first position P1. In the second movement M2, the valve part 104 reciprocates between the first position P1 and a third position P3. The first position P1 is the position where the discharge port 105 is opened by the valve part 104, the second position P2 is the position where the discharge port 105 is closed by the valve part 104, and the third position P3 is the position between the first position P1 and the second position P2.

[0098] For example, the controller 120 can apply a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101 to move the valve section 104 to a first position P1, apply a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101 to move the valve section 104 to a second position P2, and apply a third voltage E3 to the actuator 101 to move the valve section 104 to a third position P3. The first voltage E1 may be lower than the second voltage E2, and the third voltage E3 may be higher than the first voltage E1 but lower than the second voltage E2.

[0099] When valve 104 moves to the first position P1, discharge port 105 opens, thereby setting a state where pressurized liquid 200 supplied from liquid supply unit 110 is discharged from discharge port 105. Conversely, when valve 104 moves to the second position P2, discharge port 105 closes, thereby setting a no-discharge state where liquid is not discharged from discharge port 105. By controlling the discharge of liquid 200 using the first movement M1 of valve 104, liquid discharge device 1 can apply liquid 200 onto electrode substrate to manufacture an electrode and an electrochemical device including the electrode. In addition, increasing the pressure applied to liquid 200 can increase the travel distance of liquid 200. Note that the electrode substrate can be a collector, such as aluminum foil, copper foil, etc. The electrode substrate can also be an electrode substrate on which active material is included.

[0100] Furthermore, in the liquid discharge device 1, by performing the second movement M2 while the liquid 200 is being discharged, the first valve member 103 can generate pressure fluctuations in the liquid 200 within the liquid chamber 106 to agitate the liquid 200. Therefore, viscous liquids or particles can be loosened, thereby reducing the likelihood of the individual liquid channel 108 closing due to deformation of the first valve member 103 caused by the flow of the liquid 200. As a result, the liquid discharge device 1 can be provided that can stably discharge the liquid 200 by suppressing viscous liquids and particles from clogging the channels in the liquid chamber during the discharge period.

[0101] In this embodiment, the state in which the third voltage E3 is applied to the actuator 101 and the valve 104 is in the third position P3 can also be referred to as the state in which the discharge port 105 is not completely closed. The state in which the discharge port 105 is not completely closed means that the discharge port 105 is at least slightly open and the liquid 200 can be discharged from the discharge port 105 uninterruptedly. By moving the valve 104 back and forth between the first position P1 and the third position P3, the liquid discharge device 1 can agitate the liquid 200 by generating pressure fluctuations in the liquid 200 in the liquid chamber 106, thereby allowing continuous and uninterrupted discharge.

[0102] From the viewpoint of achieving the advantageous effects of pressure fluctuation and agitation, it is preferable to repeatedly execute the second movement M2. Repeated execution of the second movement M2 allows the nozzle orifice to open, thereby allowing pressure fluctuations to be generated in a pulsating manner near the nozzle orifice while liquid is being discharged. Therefore, liquid flow stagnation can be suppressed and the liquid can be agitated in the direction in which it is pushed out of the nozzle orifice. Thus, liquid agitation is more advantageous compared to generating pressure fluctuations when the valve is closed. Note that although the repeated execution of the second movement M2 can be periodic or non-periodic, it is preferable that the valve performs 100 reciprocating movements per second.

[0103] Furthermore, if the liquid 200 is at least one of the following: a liquid with a viscosity greater than 10 mPa·s, a liquid with a thixotropic index indicating structural viscosity greater than 1.3, a liquid with a solids content greater than 20% by weight, or a liquid containing particles larger than 5 μm, the channels inside each liquid chamber may be more prone to clogging due to the viscous liquid and particles. Therefore, the use of the embodiments may be particularly effective.

[0104] The embodiment describes a situation where, when the valve section 104 moves to the first position P1, the discharge port 105 is fully opened due to the complete contraction of the piezoelectric element of the actuator 101. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. In this embodiment, the opening state set when the valve section 104 moves to the first position P1 includes not only the state where the discharge port 105 is fully open, but also the state where the discharge port 105 is partially open. The above-mentioned effect can also be achieved in the state where the discharge port 105 is partially open. Furthermore, the amount of liquid 200 to be discharged can also be changed according to the opening state of the discharge port 105.

[0105] <Modifications to the First Embodiment>

[0106] The driving voltage of the liquid discharge device 1 can be modified in various ways. Modifications to the driving voltage according to the first embodiment will be described below. Note that the same reference numerals will denote components identical to those in the first embodiment, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted. This similarly applies to the embodiments and their corresponding modifications described later.

[0107] Figure 6 This is a graph showing a second example of the drive voltage used to drive actuator 101. Figure 7 This is a graph showing a second example of the movement of valve section 104 corresponding to the drive voltage. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Can be with Figure 4 and 5 Observe in the same manner. A subsequent graph showing the drive voltage for driving actuator 101 and the corresponding movement of valve 104 can also be viewed in the same way. Figure 4 and 5 View it in the same way.

[0108] The changes in the value of the drive voltage and the position of the valve 104 will be described in time series. First, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101 to move the valve 104 to the second position P2 to completely close the discharge port 105. Subsequently, the controller 120 applies a third voltage E3 to the actuator 101 to move the valve 104 from the second position P2 to the third position P3, thereby opening the discharge port 105. Although the discharge port 105 is not fully open, liquid 200 is discharged from the discharge port 105 because it is not closed. The movement of the valve 104 from the second position P2 to the third position P3 in the direction of the first position P1 corresponds to the first movement M1.

[0109] After time t1 [seconds] has elapsed since the liquid 200 began to be discharged, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101 to move the valve 104 from the third position P3 to the first position P1. The discharge port 105 is fully opened, and the liquid 200 continues to be discharged.

[0110] Subsequently, after time t2, the controller 120 applies a third voltage E3 to the actuator 101 again, thereby moving the valve 104 to the third position P3. Since the discharge port 105 is not closed, the liquid 200 continues to discharge. The reciprocating movement of the valve 104 from the third position P3 to the first position P1 and then from the first position P1 to the third position P3 corresponds to the second movement M2.

[0111] Subsequently, in a similar manner, the controller 120 repeatedly performs the operation of applying a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101 after time t1 has elapsed and further applying a third voltage E3 after time t2 has elapsed. This repeated execution of the above operation allows the head 100 to discharge liquid 200 while causing the valve 104 to reciprocate between a first position P1 and a third position P3. As a result, pressure fluctuations are generated in the liquid 200 in the liquid chamber 106, thereby agitating the liquid 200.

[0112] When the discharge operation is to be stopped, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101 to close the discharge port 105.

[0113] While there is no particular limitation on the time t1 for applying the first voltage E1, the time t1 can preferably be longer than or equal to the time taken for the valve 104 to move to the first position P1 according to the application of the first voltage E1. This makes it easier to adjust the displacement by means of the driving voltage. Furthermore, since setting the first voltage E1 to approximately 0V increases the voltage difference between the third voltage E3 and the first voltage E1, the amount of movement between the third position P3 and the first position P1 can be increased. Therefore, this setting may be more preferred because it allows for more advantageous achievement of pressure fluctuation and stirring effects.

[0114] From the viewpoint that pressure fluctuation and stirring achieve beneficial effects, preferably, the difference between the third voltage E3 and the first voltage E1 is higher than or equal to 5% of the difference between the second voltage E2 and the first voltage E1, that is, preferably, the difference is E2>E3≥(E2-E1)×0.05+E1.

[0115] <Second Embodiment>

[0116] Figure 8 This is a view used to describe a head 100a, which is a second example of a head included in a liquid discharge device 1. Figure 9 This is a graph showing a first example of the drive voltage of the actuator 101a included in the head 100a. Figure 10 This is a graph showing a first example of the movement of the valve section 104 corresponding to the drive voltage supplied to the actuator 101a.

[0117] like Figure 8 As shown, the head 100a includes an actuator 101a. Each actuator 101a includes a piezoelectric element that operates in d31 mode.

[0118] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, when the first voltage E1 is applied to the actuator 101a, the piezoelectric element of the actuator 101a contracts in the Y direction, causing the first valve member 103 to move in the -Y direction, so that the valve portion 104 moves away from the discharge port 105 to open the discharge port 105. In this case, the valve portion 104 is positioned at the first position P1.

[0119] When a second voltage E2, lower than the first voltage E1, is applied to the actuator 101a, the piezoelectric element of the actuator 101a expands in the Y direction, causing the first valve member 103 to move in the +Y direction, thereby blocking the discharge port 105 and closing the discharge port 105. In this case, the valve member 104 is positioned at the second position P2.

[0120] When a third voltage E3, which is lower than the first voltage E1 but higher than the second voltage E2, is applied to the actuator 101a, the valve section 104 moves to the third position P3 between the first position P1 and the second position P2.

[0121] In other words, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101a to move the valve section 104 to a first position P1, applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101a to move the valve section 104 to a second position P2, and applies a third voltage E3 to the actuator 101a to move the valve section 104 to a third position P3. The first voltage E1 may be higher than the second voltage E2. The third voltage E3 may be higher than the second voltage E2 but lower than the first voltage E1.

[0122] The changes in the value of the driving voltage and the position of the valve 104 will be described in time series. First, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101a to move the valve 104 to completely close the discharge port 105. Subsequently, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101a, causing the valve 104 to move from the second position P2 to the first position P1, thereby completely opening the discharge port 105. Liquid 200 is discharged from the discharge port 105 in this fully open state. The movement of the valve 104 from the second position P2 to the first position P1 corresponds to the first movement M1.

[0123] After time t1 [seconds] has elapsed since the liquid 200 began to be discharged, the controller 120 applies a third voltage E3 to the actuator 101a to move the valve 104 from the first position P1 to the third position P3. Although the discharge port 105 changes to its partially open state, the liquid 200 continues to be discharged because the discharge port 105 is not closed.

[0124] Subsequently, after a further elapsed time t2, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101a to move the valve 104 to the first position P1. The discharge port 105 is fully opened, and the liquid 200 continues to discharge. The reciprocating movement of the valve 104 from the first position P1 to the third position P3 and then back to the first position P1 corresponds to the second movement M2.

[0125] Subsequently, in a similar manner, the controller 120 repeatedly applies a third voltage E3 to the actuator 101a after time t1 and further applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101a after time t2. This repeated execution of the above operations allows the head 100a to discharge liquid 200 while causing the valve 104 to reciprocate between a first position P1 and a third position P3. As a result, pressure fluctuations are generated in the liquid 200 in the liquid chamber 106, thereby agitating the liquid 200.

[0126] When the discharge operation is to be stopped, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101a to close the discharge port 105.

[0127] Although there is no particular limitation on the time t2 for applying the third voltage E3, the time t2 can preferably be longer than or equal to the time taken for the valve 104 to move to the third position P3 according to the application of the third voltage E3. This makes it easier to adjust the displacement by driving the voltage. From the viewpoint of achieving beneficial effects on pressure fluctuation and stirring, the third voltage E3 can preferably satisfy E1×0.95≥E3>0.

[0128] The effect of this embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment.

[0129] The head 100a may also include an actuator 101a, which includes a piezoelectric element operating in d33 mode. Each actuator 101a may include, for example, a hollow nozzle body having, at its distal end, a discharge orifice for discharging liquid and an injection orifice for injecting liquid near the discharge orifice; a piezoelectric element incorporated in the nozzle body and expanding and contracting according to an externally applied voltage; a valve member for opening and closing the discharge orifice; a reverse spring mechanism disposed between the valve member and the piezoelectric element; a sealing member fitted onto the valve member and preventing ink from flowing into the side of the piezoelectric element; and a pair of leads connected to the electrodes of the piezoelectric element and capable of applying voltage thereto.

[0130] <Modifications to the Second Embodiment>

[0131] Figure 11 This is a graph showing a second example of the drive voltage used to drive actuator 101a. Figure 12 This is a graph showing a second example of the movement of valve section 104 corresponding to the drive voltage.

[0132] The changes in the value of the drive voltage and the position of the valve 104 will be described in time series. First, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101a to move the valve 104 to the second position P2 to completely close the discharge port 105. Then, the controller 120 applies a third voltage E3 to the actuator 101a to move the valve 104 from the second position P2 to the third position P3, thereby opening the discharge port 105. Although the discharge port 105 is not fully open, liquid 200 is discharged from the discharge port 105 because it is not closed. The movement of the valve 104 from the second position P2 to the third position P3 in the direction of the first position P1 corresponds to the first movement M1.

[0133] After time t1 [seconds] has elapsed since the liquid 200 began to be discharged, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101a to move the valve 104 from the third position P3 to the first position P1. The discharge port 105 is fully opened, and the liquid 200 continues to be discharged.

[0134] Subsequently, after a further time t2, the controller 120 applies the third voltage E3 to the actuator 101a again to move the valve 104 to the third position P3. Since the discharge port 105 is not closed, the liquid 200 continues to discharge. The reciprocating movement of the valve 104 from the first position P1 to the third position P3 after moving from the third position P3 to the first position P1 corresponds to the second movement M2.

[0135] Subsequently, in a similar manner, the controller 120 repeatedly applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101a after time t1 and further applies a third voltage E3 to the actuator 101a after time t2. This repeated execution of the above operations allows the head 100a to discharge liquid 200 while causing the valve 104 to reciprocate between a first position P1 and a third position P3. As a result, pressure fluctuations are generated in the liquid 200 in the liquid chamber 106, thereby agitating the liquid 200.

[0136] When the discharge operation is to be stopped, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101a to close the discharge port 105.

[0137] While there is no particular limitation on the time t1 for applying the first voltage E1, the time t1 can preferably be longer than or equal to the time taken for the valve 104 to move to the first position P1 according to the application of the first voltage E1. This makes it easier to adjust the displacement by means of the driving voltage. Furthermore, since setting the first voltage E1 to approximately 0V increases the voltage difference between the third voltage E3 and the first voltage E1, the amount of movement between the third position P3 and the first position P1 can be increased. Therefore, this setting may be more preferred because it allows for more advantageous achievement of pressure fluctuation and stirring effects.

[0138] From the viewpoint that pressure fluctuation and stirring achieve beneficial effects, it is preferable that the difference between the second voltage E2 and the third voltage E3 is higher than or equal to 5% of the difference between the second voltage E2 and the first voltage E1, that is, it is preferable that the difference is E2-(E2-E1)×0.05>E3≥E1.

[0139] (Header modifications)

[0140] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the arrangement of head 100b, which is another example of the head according to the second embodiment. Figure 13 The top view shows the discharge port 105 in the closed state. Figure 13 The lower view shows the discharge port 105 in the open state.

[0141] The head 100b may include a nozzle body 4, an actuator 101b, a first valve component 103, a reverse spring mechanism 8, a sealing component 6, and a pair of leads 9 and 10.

[0142] The nozzle body 4 has a discharge orifice 105 at its distal end for discharging liquid 200, and an inlet 3 near the discharge orifice 105 for injecting liquid 200. An actuator 101b is incorporated into the nozzle body 4 and contracts and expands according to an externally applied driving voltage. A first valve member 103 opens and closes the discharge orifice 105. A reverse spring mechanism 8 is disposed between the first valve member 103 and the actuator 101b. A sealing member 6 is fitted onto the first valve member 103 to prevent liquid 200 from flowing into the side of the actuator 101b. A pair of leads 9 and 10 are connected to the electrodes of the actuator 101b and used to apply voltage.

[0143] The nozzle body 4 can be integrally formed into a tube shape or a square tube shape, and is closed except for the discharge port 105 and the inlet 3. The discharge port 105 is an opening formed at the distal end of the valve section 104 and is configured to discharge liquid 200. Near the discharge port 105, the inlet 3 is provided on the side surface of the nozzle body 4 and connected to the ink cartridge, so that liquid 200 can be continuously supplied to the head 100b through the pressurization unit.

[0144] The actuator 101b is formed of zirconia ceramic or the like, and is shaped to have an appropriate shape and thickness according to the amount of liquid 200 to be discharged. The actuator 101b is controlled by a drive voltage from the controller 120.

[0145] The sealing component 6 is, for example, packing, an O-ring, etc. The sealing component 6 is assembled onto the first valve component 103 to prevent liquid from flowing from one side of the inlet 3 into one side of the actuator 101b.

[0146] The reverse spring mechanism 8 is an elastic member formed by molding a thin, appropriately deformable metal sheet or rubber, soft resin, etc. The reverse spring mechanism 8 includes a deformable portion 8a, a fixed portion 8b, and a guide portion 8c. The deformable portion 8a is formed adjacent to the proximal surface of the first valve member 103, and its cross-section has an approximately trapezoidal shape. The fixed portion 8b is fixed to the inner wall surface of the nozzle body 4, and the guide portion 8c is connected to the end of the actuator 101b. The long side of the trapezoidal deformable portion 8a (corresponding to the bottom surface of the trapezoid) is the curved side 8d connected to the fixed portion 8b.

[0147] In the reverse spring mechanism 8, a driving voltage is applied to the actuator 101b, causing the actuator 101b to expand. This causes the guide portion 8c to move to one side of the discharge port 105 and press against the center portion of the bent side 8d of the deformable portion 8a. This causes the top of the deformable portion 8a (corresponding to the upper surface of the trapezoid) connected to the first valve member 103 to move to the side of the actuator 101b. Figure 13 As shown, when the first valve component 103 is pulled a distance d toward the side of the actuator 101b, the discharge port 105 opens.

[0148] By appropriately adjusting the length of the bent side 8d or the distance between the bent side 8d and the top of the deformed portion 8a of the reverse spring mechanism 8 (which is the portion connected to the first valve member 103), the length moved by the first valve member 103 can be made longer than the length of expansion performed by the actuator 101b. In other words, the reverse spring mechanism 8 can amplify the slight expansion of the actuator 101b.

[0149] Because this allows the length of the expensive actuator 101b to be shortened relative to the conventional length, the production cost of the head 100b can be significantly reduced. For example, the length of the actuator 101b can be shortened by making the travel distance of the first valve member 103 twice the travel distance of the actuator 101b.

[0150] Since the actuator 101b returns to its original shape when no driving voltage is applied, no external force is applied to the reverse spring mechanism 8, and no deformation occurs. Conversely, since the actuator 101b expands when the driving voltage is applied, the guide portion 8c of the reverse spring mechanism 8 moves to one side of the discharge port 105 according to the expansion. Therefore, the deformable portion 8a deforms by compression.

[0151] By using this head 100b as the head according to the second embodiment, a similar effect to that of the head 100a described above can also be achieved.

[0152] <Third Embodiment>

[0153] The liquid discharge device 1c according to the third embodiment will be described.

[0154] Figure 14 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional arrangement of the controller 120c included in the liquid discharge device 1c. (See diagram for example.) Figure 14 As shown, controller 120c includes a first voltage modifier 125, a shift counter 126, and a second voltage modifier 127. These functions can be implemented by circuitry. Alternatively, some of these functions can be implemented by software. Furthermore, these functions can be implemented by multiple circuits or multiple software programs.

[0155] If the second voltage E2 is higher than the first voltage E1, the controller 120c can apply a third voltage E3, which is a predetermined voltage ΔV higher than the first voltage E1, to the actuator 101 for the second movement M2. If the first voltage E1 is higher than the second voltage E2, the controller 120c can apply a third voltage E3, which is a predetermined voltage ΔV higher than the second voltage E2, to the actuator 101 for the second movement M2.

[0156] The liquid discharge device 1c includes a temperature sensor 130 that detects the temperature of the actuator 101.

[0157] The first voltage modifier 125 is an example of a first voltage modification unit that modifies a predetermined voltage ΔV based on the temperature of the actuator 101 detected by the temperature sensor 130.

[0158] The movement counter 126 counts the number of times the actuator 101 performs the first movement M1 and outputs the counting result to the second voltage modifier 127.

[0159] The second voltage modifier 127 is an example of a second voltage modification unit that modifies the third voltage E3 based on the number of first movements M1 executed by actuator 101 and counted by movement counter 126.

[0160] The amount of movement of the first valve member 103 relative to the drive voltage per unit voltage can be changed according to the temperature of the actuator 101. In addition, if the amount of the first movement M1 of the actuator 101 increases, the amount of movement of the first valve member 103 relative to the drive voltage per unit voltage can decrease.

[0161] The controller 120c causes the first voltage modifier 125 to change a predetermined voltage ΔV according to the temperature of the actuator 101. Additionally, the controller 120c causes the second voltage modifier 127 to change the predetermined voltage ΔV according to the number of times the actuator 101 moves its first movement M1. This allows the discharge orifice 105 to open approximately constantly according to the driving voltage, thereby stabilizing the discharge volume. Other effects are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0162] <Fourth Embodiment>

[0163] The fourth embodiment will be described. According to this embodiment, the actuator 101d moves the first valve member 103 according to the applied voltage, and the controller 120 applies a voltage to the actuator 101d for moving the valve part 104 to the second position P2 within an application time period Δt shorter than a predetermined time period Δt0. The predetermined time period Δt0 is the time taken to move the valve part 104 to the second position P2 after the voltage has already been applied to the actuator 101d to move the valve part 104 to the second position P2.

[0164] After the driving voltage is applied, the actuator, including the piezoelectric element, moves a distance corresponding to the applied driving voltage over a predetermined time period. Therefore, by applying the driving voltage to the actuator 101d within an application time period Δt that is shorter than the predetermined time period Δt0, the movement of the valve section 104 can be stopped before it reaches the second position P2. As a result, in this embodiment, the valve section 104 moves back and forth between the first position P1 and the third position P3 without a third voltage E3 being applied to the actuator 101d.

[0165] Figure 15 This is a graph showing a first example of the drive voltage of actuator 101d. Figure 16 This is a graph showing a first example of the movement of valve section 104 corresponding to the drive voltage.

[0166] Actuator 101d includes a piezoelectric element that operates in d33 mode.

[0167] like Figure 15 and 16 As shown, applying a first voltage E1 to actuator 101d causes the piezoelectric element of actuator 101d to contract, thereby moving the first valve member 103 in the -Y direction. This causes valve portion 104 to move away from discharge port 105, and discharge port 105 is opened. In this case, valve portion 104 is positioned at the first position P1.

[0168] When a second voltage E2, higher than the first voltage E1, is applied to the actuator 101d, the piezoelectric element of the actuator 101d expands in the Y direction, causing the first valve member 103 to move in the +Y direction, thereby blocking the discharge port 105 with the valve section 104 to close the discharge port 105. In this case, the valve section 104 is positioned at the second position P2.

[0169] The changes in the value of the driving voltage and the position of the valve 104 will be described in time series. First, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101d, causing the valve 104 to move to the second position P2 to completely close the discharge port 105. Subsequently, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101d, causing the valve 104 to move from the second position P2 to the first position P1 to completely open the discharge port 105. Liquid 200 is discharged from the discharge port 105 in this fully open state. The movement of the valve 104 from the second position P2 to the first position P1 corresponds to a first movement M1.

[0170] After a time t1 [seconds] has elapsed since the liquid 200 began to drain, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101d for an application time period Δt shorter than a predetermined time period Δt0. Subsequently, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101d. As a result, the valve 104 moves back towards the first position P1 at the third position P3 before reaching the second position P2, causing the valve 104 to subsequently reach the first position P1. Since the discharge port 105 is not closed during this period, the liquid 200 continues to drain.

[0171] When a further time t1 has elapsed after a predetermined time period Δt0, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101d. Subsequently, after an application time period Δt shorter than the predetermined time period Δt0 has elapsed, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101d. As a result, the valve 104 moves back towards the first position P1 at the third position P3 before reaching the second position P2, causing the valve 104 to subsequently reach the first position P1. Since the discharge port 105 is not closed during this period, the liquid 200 continues to discharge.

[0172] Subsequently, in a similar manner, the controller 120 can repeatedly perform the following operations: applying a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101d after a predetermined time period Δt0, followed by a further time t1, and then applying a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101d after the application time period Δt. This repeated execution of the above operations allows the head 100d to discharge liquid 200 while simultaneously causing the valve section 104 to reciprocate between a first position P1 and a third position P3. As a result, pressure fluctuations are generated in the liquid 200 within the liquid chamber 106, thereby agitating the liquid 200.

[0173] When the discharge operation is to be stopped, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101d to close the discharge port 105.

[0174] Although it can depend on the structure of the head or the type of actuator, the length of the time period from the application of the second voltage E2 to the application of the first voltage E1 after the predetermined time period Δt0 has passed, in other words, the length of the application time period Δt for moving the valve 104 to the third position P3, can preferably be longer than or equal to 5% of the length of the predetermined time period Δt0. Therefore, the application time period Δt can preferably satisfy Δt0×0.95≥Δt>0.

[0175] As described above, a liquid discharge device 1 capable of performing a stable discharge operation can be provided by using actuator 101d.

[0176] <Modifications of the Fourth Embodiment>

[0177] Figure 17This is a graph showing the drive voltage of actuator 101e, which is a second example of an actuator according to the third embodiment. Figure 18 This is a graph showing a second example of the movement of valve section 104 corresponding to the drive voltage.

[0178] Actuator 101e includes a piezoelectric element that operates in d31 mode.

[0179] like Figure 17 and 18 As shown, when the first voltage E1 is applied to the actuator 101e, the piezoelectric element contracts in the Y direction, causing the first valve member 103 to move in the -Y direction, causing the valve portion 104 to move away from the discharge port 105 to open the discharge port 105. In this case, the valve portion 104 is positioned at the first position P1.

[0180] When a second voltage E2, lower than the first voltage E1, is applied to the actuator 101e, the piezoelectric element of the actuator 101e expands in the Y direction, causing the first valve member 103 to move in the +Y direction, thereby blocking and closing the discharge port 105. In this case, the valve member 104 is positioned at the second position P2.

[0181] The changes in the value of the driving voltage and the changes in the position of the valve 104 will be described in time series. First, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101e to move the valve 104 to the second position P2 to completely close the discharge port 105. Then, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101e, causing the valve 104 to move from the second position P2 to the first position P1 to completely open the discharge port 105. Liquid 200 is discharged from the discharge port 105 in this fully open state. The movement of the valve 104 from the second position P2 to the first position P1 corresponds to a first movement M1.

[0182] After time t1 [seconds] has elapsed since the start of liquid discharge from 200, controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to actuator 101e. Subsequently, after an application time period Δt, shorter than a predetermined time period Δt0, has elapsed, controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to actuator 101e. As a result, valve 104 moves back towards first position P1 at third position P3 before reaching second position P2, causing valve 104 to subsequently reach first position P1. Since discharge port 105 is not closed during this period, liquid 200 continues to discharge.

[0183] When a time t1 has elapsed after a predetermined time period Δt0, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101e. Subsequently, after an application time period Δt shorter than the predetermined time period Δt0 has elapsed, the controller 120 applies a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101e. As a result, the valve 104 moves back towards the first position P1 at the third position P3 before reaching the second position P2, causing the valve 104 to subsequently reach the first position P1. Since the discharge port 105 is not closed during this period, the liquid 200 continues to discharge.

[0184] Subsequently, in a similar manner, the controller 120 can repeatedly perform the following operations: applying a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101e after a predetermined time period Δt0, followed by a further time period t1, and then applying a first voltage E1 to the actuator 101e after an application time period Δt shorter than the predetermined time period Δt0. This repeated execution of the above operations allows the head 100e to discharge liquid 200 while simultaneously causing the valve section 104 to reciprocate between a first position P1 and a third position P3. As a result, pressure fluctuations are generated in the liquid 200 within the liquid chamber 106, thereby agitating the liquid 200.

[0185] When the discharge operation is to be stopped, the controller 120 applies a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101e to close the discharge port 105.

[0186] Although it can depend on the structure of the head, the type of actuator, etc., the length of the applied time period Δt can preferably be longer than or equal to 5% of the length of the predetermined time period Δt0. Therefore, the applied time period Δt can preferably satisfy Δt0×0.95≥Δt>0.

[0187] <Fifth Embodiment>

[0188] The liquid discharge device 1f according to the fifth embodiment will be described. The actuator 101d according to the third embodiment or the actuator 101e according to the fourth embodiment can be used as the actuator of the liquid discharge device 1f.

[0189] Figure 19 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional arrangement of the controller 120f included in the liquid discharge device 1f. (See diagram for example.) Figure 19 As shown, controller 120f includes a first time modifier 128 and a second time modifier 129. These functions can be implemented by circuitry. Alternatively, some of these functions can be implemented by software. Furthermore, these functions can be implemented by multiple circuits or multiple software programs.

[0190] The controller 120f applies a first voltage E1 or a second voltage E2 to the actuator 101d to move the valve 104 to the third position P3 during an application time period Δt that is shorter than a predetermined time period Δt0.

[0191] The first time modifier 128 is an example of a first time modification unit that modifies the applied time period Δt based on the temperature of the actuator 101d detected by the temperature sensor 130.

[0192] The second time modifier 129 is an example of a second time modification unit that modifies the applied time period Δt based on the number of first movements M1 executed by actuator 101d and counted by movement counter 126.

[0193] The amount of movement of the first valve member 103 relative to the drive voltage per unit voltage can be changed according to the temperature of the actuator 101d. In addition, if the amount of the first movement M1 of the actuator 101d increases, the amount of movement of the first valve member 103 relative to the drive voltage per unit voltage can decrease.

[0194] The controller 120f causes the first time modifier 128 to modify the application time period Δt based on the temperature of the actuator 101d. Additionally, the controller 120f causes the second time modifier 129 to modify the application time period Δt based on the amount of the first movement M1 of the actuator 101d. This allows the discharge orifice 105 to be approximately constant based on the amount opened by the drive voltage, thereby stabilizing the discharge volume. Other effects are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0195] <Sixth Embodiment>

[0196] Reference Figure 20 and Figure 21 The arrangement of the liquid discharge device according to the sixth embodiment is described. Figure 20 This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of the liquid discharge device according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 21 yes Figure 20 An enlarged view of region A in the image.

[0197] like Figure 20 As shown, the liquid discharge device according to the sixth embodiment includes a head 100, a liquid supply unit 110, an elastic diaphragm 340, and a vibration source 330. The elastic diaphragm 340 is arranged on a first liquid channel 320 for supplying liquid from the liquid supply unit 110 to the head 100. The vibration source 330 can cause the elastic diaphragm 340 to oscillate.

[0198] The liquid discharge device according to the sixth embodiment causes the liquid supply unit 110 to supply liquid 200 to the head 100, and causes the controller to control the head 100 to discharge liquid 200 from the head 100. Note that Figure 20 The image shows a perspective view of the interior of the head 100.

[0199] like Figure 20 and 21As shown, the head 100 includes an actuator 101, a first valve member 103, and a liquid chamber 106.

[0200] Each actuator 101 includes a piezoelectric element that contracts according to an applied voltage. In this embodiment, the piezoelectric element may be a (vertical displacement type) piezoelectric element operating in d33 mode and capable of expanding and contracting in the Y direction according to the applied voltage. The material of the piezoelectric element may be, for example, lead zirconate titanate (PZT). The piezoelectric element according to this embodiment may be a stacked piezoelectric element, wherein multiple piezoelectric elements are already stacked in the Y direction to increase the amount of displacement accompanying expansion and contraction.

[0201] The end of each actuator 101 on the -Y side is coupled and fixed to the frame 102, and the end of each actuator 101 on the +Y side is coupled to the end of the corresponding first valve member 103 on the -Y side. The actuator 101 is an example of a moving unit where a piezoelectric element expands and contracts according to an applied voltage to move the first valve member 103. In this embodiment, the actuator 101 moves the first valve member 103 in the Y direction.

[0202] The head 100 includes a plurality of liquid chambers 106 arranged along the X direction. Each of the plurality of liquid chambers 106 includes a discharge port 105. The discharge port 105 is a through hole for discharging liquid 200 and is formed on a discharge port plate 109, which forms a wall on the +Y side of the liquid chamber 106. The liquid chamber 106 stores liquid 200 inside, and the liquid 200 is discharged from the interior of the liquid chamber 106 to the exterior through the discharge port 105.

[0203] The liquid 200 according to this embodiment can be, for example, a liquid with a viscosity greater than 10 mPa·s, a liquid with a thixotropic index greater than 1.3 representing structural viscosity, a liquid with a solids content greater than 20% by weight, or a liquid containing particles with a particle size greater than 5 μm. The particles that can be contained in the liquid 200 can be particles used as electrode materials, and can be, for example, carbon that can be used as an anode active material, lithium transition metal oxide that can be used as a cathode active material, or ceramics used to form a functional layer to impart electrode function.

[0204] Each first valve member 103 is configured such that the +Y side portion of the first valve member 103 is received in a corresponding liquid chamber 106. The first valve member 103 comprises a metallic material or the like and may include a plurality of needle-like members extending in the Y direction.

[0205] Each of the plurality of first valve members 103 is paired with a corresponding one of the plurality of liquid chambers 106. The +Y side portion of each first valve member 103 is inserted into the corresponding liquid chamber 106 and is movable in the Y direction. The gap formed between the first valve member 103 and the inner wall of the liquid chamber 106 forms a separate liquid channel 108 in which the liquid 200 flows.

[0206] The end of the first valve member 103 located on the discharge port 105 side forms a valve portion 104 for opening and closing the discharge port 105. The actuator 101 can move the first valve member 103 in the Y direction according to the applied voltage to set the discharge port 105 to an open state or a closed state.

[0207] More specifically, when the piezoelectric element of actuator 101 contracts in the Y direction according to the applied voltage, the first valve member 103 moves to the -Y side, causing the valve portion 104 to move away from the discharge port 105, thereby setting the discharge port to an open state. When the piezoelectric element of actuator 101 expands in the Y direction according to the applied voltage, the first valve member 103 moves to the +Y side, causing the valve portion 104 to block the discharge port 105, thereby setting the discharge port to a closed state.

[0208] The first pressurization unit 300 and the liquid reservoir 111 are examples of supply units for supplying pressurized liquid 200 to the liquid chambers 106. The liquid 200 pressurized by the first pressurization unit 300 is supplied to the plurality of liquid chambers 106 via manifold 107.

[0209] Since the liquid 200 is pressurized by the first pressurizing unit 300, when the discharge port 105 is opened by the valve section 104, the liquid 200 is discharged to the outside through the discharge port 105. When the discharge port 105 is closed by the valve section 104, it is set to a non-discharge state where the liquid 200 is not discharged.

[0210] In this embodiment, actuator 101 is exemplified by an actuator including a piezoelectric element. However, actuator 101 is not limited to this. Actuator 101 may include at least one of, for example, an electromagnet that generates a magnetic field according to an applied voltage, a cylinder that converts compressed air energy into linear movement according to an applied voltage, a motor actuator driven according to an applied voltage, or a hydraulic mechanism that generates hydraulic pressure according to an applied voltage. Even when using these components, effects similar to those achieved when using a piezoelectric element can be obtained.

[0211] Alternatively, the head 100 may include an actuator 101, which includes a piezoelectric element operating in d31 mode. Each actuator 101 may include, for example, a hollow nozzle body having a discharge orifice at its distal end for discharging liquid and an inlet near the discharge orifice for jetting liquid; a piezoelectric element incorporated in the nozzle body and expanding and contracting in response to an externally applied voltage; a valve member for opening and closing the discharge orifice; a reverse spring mechanism disposed between the valve member and the piezoelectric element; a sealing member fitted onto the valve member and preventing ink from flowing into the side of the piezoelectric element; and a pair of leads connected to the electrodes of the piezoelectric element and capable of applying voltage thereto.

[0212] The elastic membrane 340 can be pushed and pulled by the vibration source 330. The elastic membrane 340 is positioned on the first liquid channel 320 that supplies liquid from the liquid reservoir 111 to the head 100, so as to contact the liquid in the first liquid channel 320. By vibrating the vibration source 330 to induce pressure fluctuations in the liquid to be supplied to the head 100, pressure fluctuations are generated in the liquid in the head 100, particularly in the liquid in each liquid chamber 106. These pressure fluctuations in the liquid cause agitation of the liquid.

[0213] Specifically, vibrating the vibration source simultaneously with the valve open and liquid discharging from the nozzle orifice allows for continuous liquid discharge, even when the valve remains open. From the viewpoint of obtaining favorable effects regarding pressure fluctuations and agitation, repetitive vibration of the vibration source is preferred. Furthermore, agitation can be achieved by the vibration of the vibration source when the nozzle orifice is open or closed. However, by repeatedly vibrating the vibration source when the nozzle orifice is open, pressure fluctuations can be generated in a pulsating manner near the nozzle orifice during liquid discharge. Therefore, liquid flow stagnation can be suppressed, and the liquid can be agitated in the direction that pushes the liquid out of the nozzle orifice. Thus, liquid agitation is more advantageous compared to generating pressure fluctuations when the valve is closed. Note that although the vibration of the vibration source can be periodic or non-periodic, the vibration source is preferably vibrating at a frequency of 100 Hz or higher.

[0214] Note that, as a modification of the sixth embodiment, the liquid supply tube itself may be made of an elastic member and pressed by a vibration source, instead of using an elastic membrane (see, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2018-94736).

[0215] <Seventh Embodiment>

[0216] Figure 22This is a view illustrating an example arrangement of a liquid discharge device according to a seventh embodiment. Since the arrangement of the head 100 is similar to that of the sixth embodiment, description will be omitted. The liquid discharge device according to the seventh embodiment includes a first liquid supply opening 400 on an upstream side for supplying liquid and a second liquid supply opening 410 on a downstream side. The first liquid supply opening 400 communicates with the second liquid supply opening 410 to allow liquid to flow within the head 100.

[0217] The second liquid supply opening 410 is connected to the second liquid channel 420. The seventh embodiment differs from the sixth embodiment in that the elastic membrane 340 is configured to contact the liquid in the second liquid channel 420. In the seventh embodiment, this arrangement prevents a malfunction that could cause the liquid supply to the head 100 to stop due to blockage of the liquid supply channel when the elastic membrane 340 is pushed in.

[0218] <Eighth Embodiment>

[0219] Figure 23 This is a view illustrating an example arrangement of the liquid discharge device according to the eighth embodiment. Since the arrangement of the head 100 is similar to that of the sixth embodiment, a description will be omitted.

[0220] In this embodiment, a vibration source 500 is disposed on a first liquid channel 320 that supplies liquid from the liquid reservoir 111 to the head 100. The vibration source 500 vibrates the first liquid channel 320 by shaking or bouncing it. This causes fluctuations in the liquid pressure within the liquid tube, thereby generating pressure fluctuations in the liquid in each liquid chamber 106 of the head 100 to agitate the liquid.

[0221] <Ninth Embodiment>

[0222] Figure 24 This is a view illustrating an example arrangement of the liquid discharge device according to the ninth embodiment. Since the arrangement of the head 100 is similar to that of the sixth embodiment, a description will be omitted.

[0223] The liquid discharge device according to the ninth embodiment includes, in addition to a first pressurizing unit 300 for pressurizing the liquid to be supplied to the head 100, a second pressurizing unit 600 for discharging the liquid. The pressurizing pressure of the second pressurizing unit 600 is different from that of the first pressurizing unit 300. That is, the pressurizing pressure of the second pressurizing unit 600 can be greater than or less than that of the first pressurizing unit 300. The second pressurizing unit 600 is connected to the liquid reservoir 111 via a second valve member 610.

[0224] The second valve component 610 is disposed on the passage between the second pressurizing unit 600 and the liquid reservoir 111, and can open and close the passage. The second valve component 610 may be, for example, a solenoid valve, which is driven by a control signal to open and close the passage between the second pressurizing unit 600 and the liquid reservoir 111.

[0225] In this embodiment, opening and closing the second valve member 610 causes pressure fluctuations in the liquid supplied to the head 100, thereby causing pressure fluctuations in the liquid in each liquid chamber 106 of the head 100 to agitate the liquid. Note that opening and closing the second valve member 610 refers to operations performed to change the state of liquid flow in the channel between the second pressurizing unit 600 and the liquid reservoir 111. In addition to switching between a state of liquid flow in the channel between the second pressurizing unit 600 and the liquid reservoir 111 and a state of liquid not flowing in the channel between the second pressurizing unit 600 and the liquid reservoir 111, opening and closing the second valve member 610 also includes operations that change the amount of liquid flowing in the channel or the rate of liquid flow in the channel based on the difference between the open and closed states of the second valve member 610.

[0226] <Tenth Embodiment>

[0227] Reference Figures 25 to 27 The coating apparatus 1001 according to the tenth embodiment is described. Figure 25 This is a view showing an example of the arrangement of the coating apparatus 1001. Figure 26 This is a view showing a first example of the arrangement of the coating apparatus 1001 relative to the target object U. Figure 27 This is a view showing a second example of the arrangement of the coating apparatus 1001 relative to the target object U.

[0228] The coating apparatus 1001 includes a liquid discharge device 1g, a camera 1004 arranged near the liquid discharge device 1g as an image capture device, an XY stage 1003 for moving the liquid discharge device 1g and the camera 1004 in the X and Y directions, image editing software S for editing images captured by the camera 1004, and a controller 120g. Based on a predetermined control program, the controller 120g operates the XY stage 1003 and causes the liquid discharge device 1g to discharge liquid 200.

[0229] The coating apparatus 1001 can apply liquid 200 discharged from the liquid discharge device 1g to the target object U.

[0230] The liquid discharge device 1g discharges liquid 200 from multiple discharge orifices 105 toward the application surface of the target object U. The liquid 200 discharged from each discharge orifice 105 is discharged in a direction approximately perpendicular to the XY plane. The directions in which the liquid 200 is discharged from the multiple discharge orifices 105 are approximately parallel to each other. The distance between each discharge orifice 105 and the application surface of the target object U is, for example, approximately 20 cm.

[0231] The XY stage 1003 includes an X-axis shaft 1005 and a Y-axis shaft 1006. The X-axis shaft 1005 includes a linear movement mechanism, and the Y-axis shaft 1006 holds the X-axis shaft 1005 by two arms and moves the X-axis shaft 1005 in the Y direction. A liquid discharge device 1g and a camera 1004 are attached to the slider. An axis 1007 is arranged on the Y-axis shaft 1006. A robotic arm 1008 holds this axis 1007 to allow the liquid discharge device 1g to be freely positioned relative to the target object U.

[0232] For example, if the target object U is a car, the liquid discharge device 1g can be as follows: Figure 26 As shown, it is positioned above the target object U, or as... Figure 27 The robot arm 1008 is positioned on the side of the target object U, as shown. Note that the controller 120g controls the operation of the robot arm 1008 based on a predetermined program.

[0233] Camera 1004 is positioned on a slider on the X-axis 1005 near the liquid discharge device 1g, and captures a predetermined range of the application surface of the target object U at small, constant intervals while moving along the XY direction. Camera 1004 can be, for example, a digital camera. In camera 1004, appropriate specifications such as lens and resolution are selected for capturing multiple subdivided images obtained by dividing the predetermined range of the application surface. According to a program pre-installed in controller 120g, camera 1004 continuously and automatically captures multiple subdivided images of the application surface.

[0234] As described above, the liquid discharge device 1g allows the coating device 1001 to accurately apply the liquid 200 to the desired location on the target object U, even when there is a long distance between the target object U and the discharge port 105. Since the liquid discharge device 1g can also stably discharge the liquid 200, the coating device 1001 can accurately coat the liquid 200 onto the target object U.

[0235] The particles contained in the liquid 200 discharged by the coating apparatus 1001 can be, for example, aluminum flakes, mica, titanium oxide, etc. There is a problem that the aluminum flakes may puncture the packing of the valve section 104, leading to deterioration of the sealing performance. However, this embodiment reduces the operation of the valve section 104 pressing against the discharge orifice plate 109, thereby allowing suppression of sealing performance degradation.

[0236] Although embodiments have been described above, this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed above, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the claims. For example, this disclosure is also applicable to arrangements where there is no liquid chamber 106 for each nozzle and the manifold 107 is located directly above the discharge orifice 105. A head including a liquid chamber 106 branching from the manifold 107 to the discharge orifice may be less susceptible to a state where an increase in the liquid flow rate in the common channel causes a significant bend in the discharge direction of the discharged liquid, but may be more susceptible to discharge failures due to liquid-induced blockage. This disclosure is particularly applicable to such heads.

[0237] The liquid discharge device according to this embodiment is not limited to electrode printing equipment or coating equipment, but can be an image forming device that forms an image on a recording medium such as paper.

[0238] These embodiments may also include a liquid discharge method. The liquid discharge method may be, for example, a liquid discharge device performed by a liquid discharge apparatus comprising a liquid chamber including a discharge orifice, a supply unit configured to supply pressurized liquid to the liquid chamber, a valve member disposed in the liquid chamber and including a valve portion configured to open and close the discharge orifice, and a moving unit configured to move the valve member. The liquid discharge apparatus causes a control unit to control the movement of the valve member via the moving unit. The movement of the valve member includes a first movement and a second movement. In the first movement, the valve portion moves from a second position to a first position. In the second movement, the valve portion reciprocates between the first position and a third position. The first position is where the discharge orifice is opened by the valve portion, the second position is where the discharge orifice is closed by the valve portion, and the third position is a position between the first and second positions. This liquid discharge method can achieve effects similar to those of the liquid discharge apparatus described above.

[0239] (Methods for manufacturing electrodes)

[0240] These embodiments may include methods for manufacturing electrodes and electrochemical devices. Methods for manufacturing electrodes will be described below. Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an electrode manufacturing apparatus for implementing a method of manufacturing an electrode according to this embodiment. The electrode manufacturing apparatus is an apparatus that uses the aforementioned liquid discharge device to discharge a liquid composition to manufacture an electrode having a layer containing an electrode material.

[0241] <Units for forming layers containing electrode material and methods for forming layers containing electrode material>

[0242] The discharge unit is the liquid discharge device described above. By discharging, the liquid composition can be applied to a target object to form a liquid composition layer. The target object (hereinafter also referred to as the "discharge target object") is not particularly limited as long as it is intended to form a layer containing electrode material, and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. The target object can be, for example, an electrode substrate (current collector), an active material layer, a layer containing solid electrode material, etc. Furthermore, as long as the discharge unit and discharge process are capable of forming a layer containing electrode material on the discharge target object, the discharge unit and discharge process can be arranged to directly discharge the liquid composition to form a layer containing electrode material, or to indirectly discharge the liquid composition to form a layer containing electrode material.

[0243] <Other arrangements and other processes>

[0244] Other arrangements in the apparatus for manufacturing the electrode composition layer may be appropriately selected according to the purpose and are not particularly limited, as long as the effects of this disclosure are not lost. For example, another arrangement in the apparatus may be a heating unit, etc. Other processes for the method of manufacturing the electrode composition layer may be appropriately selected according to the purpose and are not particularly limited, as long as the effects of this disclosure are not lost. For example, another process may be heat treatment.

[0245] <Heating Unit and Heating Process>

[0246] A heating unit is a unit configured to heat the liquid composition discharged from a discharge unit. Heat treatment is the process of heating the liquid composition discharged during the discharge process. The liquid composition layer can be dried by heat treatment.

[0247] <Arrangement for directly discharging the liquid composition to form a layer containing electrode material>

[0248] The electrode manufacturing method described herein is an example of a method for manufacturing an electrode, specifically for forming an electrode composition layer containing an active material on an electrode substrate (current collector). The apparatus for the electrode composition layer includes a discharge processing unit 110g and a heating processing unit 130g. The discharge processing unit 110g is configured to perform a process of applying a liquid composition to a base material 4g, including a discharge target object, to form a liquid composition layer on the base material. The heating processing unit 130g is configured to perform a heat treatment to heat the liquid composition layer to obtain the electrode composition layer. The apparatus for manufacturing the electrode composition layer includes a conveying unit 5 configured to convey the base material 4g to be printed. The conveying unit 5 sequentially conveys the base material 4g to be printed to the discharge processing unit 110g and the heating processing unit 130g at a preset speed. There are no particular limitations on the method for manufacturing the base material 4g to be printed, which includes a discharge target such as an active material layer, and known methods can be appropriately selected. The discharge processing unit 110g includes the printing apparatus 281a of this disclosure for performing an application process of applying a liquid composition to a base material 4g to be printed, a container 281b for storing the liquid composition, and a supply pipe 281c for supplying the liquid composition stored in the container 281b to the printing apparatus 281a.

[0249] Container 281b stores the liquid composition. Discharge processing unit 110g discharges the liquid composition 7 from printing equipment 281a to apply the liquid composition 7 onto the base material 4g to be printed, thereby forming a thin film of the liquid composition layer on the base material. Note that container 281b can be integrated with or detached from the apparatus for manufacturing the electrode composition layer.

[0250] The container 281b and the supply tube 281c can be chosen arbitrarily, as long as they can stably store and supply the liquid composition 7.

[0251] like Figure 28 As shown, the heat treatment unit 130g includes a heating device 3a and is configured to perform a solution removal process, which is performed by using the heating device 3a to heat and dry the solution remaining in the liquid composition layer to remove the solution. An electrode composition layer is formed as a result. The heat treatment unit 130g can perform the solution removal process under reduced pressure.

[0252] The heating device 3a is not limited to a specific device and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. The heating device 3a can be, for example, a substrate heater, an infrared heater, a hot air heater, or a combination of these devices. The heating temperature and time can be appropriately selected according to the boiling point of the solution contained in the liquid composition 7 and the thickness of the film to be formed.

[0253] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of an electrode manufacturing apparatus (liquid discharge device) for implementing a method of manufacturing an electrode composition layer according to an embodiment. The liquid discharge device 300' can control pumps 310, valves 311 and 312 to circulate the liquid composition through a liquid discharge head 306, a tank 307, and a pipe 308. An external tank 313 is also provided with a liquid discharge device 300'. When the liquid composition in the tank 307 decreases, pumps 310, valves 311, 312, and 314 can be controlled to supply the liquid composition from the external tank 313 to the tank 307. Using an apparatus for manufacturing an electrode composition layer allows the liquid discharge composition to be discharged to a desired point on the discharge target object. For example, the electrode composition layer can be suitable as a component of an electrochemical device. There are no particular limitations on the components of the electrochemical device other than the electrode composition layer, and known components can be appropriately selected. Components can be, for example, anodes, cathodes, separators, etc.

[0254] Figure 30 An example of a method for manufacturing an electrode according to this embodiment is shown. The method for manufacturing electrode 210 includes a process of sequentially discharging liquid composition 12A onto electrode substrate 211 using a liquid discharge device 300' of this disclosure.

[0255] First, a long and narrow electrode substrate 211 is prepared. The electrode substrate 211 is wound around a tubular core and disposed on an unwinding roller 304 and a rewinding roller 305, such that the electrode composition layer 212 formed thereon can be on one side. Figure 30 On the upper side of the middle. The unwinding roller 304 and the rewinding roller 305 rotate counterclockwise, so that the electrode substrate 211 can be on the upper side. Figure 30 It is transported from right to left. Then, in conjunction with... Figure 28 Similarly, a liquid discharge head 306 arranged on the upstream side of the electrode substrate 211, which is placed across the unwinding roller 304 and the rewinding roller 305, discharges droplets of liquid composition 12A onto the sequentially conveyed electrode substrate 211.

[0256] Note that the multiple liquid discharge heads 306 can be mounted in a direction that is approximately parallel or approximately perpendicular to the conveying direction of the electrode substrate 211. Next, the electrode substrate 211, to which the liquid composition 12A has been discharged, is conveyed to the heating mechanism 309 by the unwinding roller 304 and the rewinding roller 305. As a result, an electrode composition layer 212 is formed, thereby obtaining an electrode 210. Subsequently, the electrode 210 is cut to the desired size by stamping or the like.

[0257] The heating mechanism 309 can also be disposed above or below the electrode substrate 211. Alternatively, multiple heating mechanisms 309 can be installed.

[0258] The heating mechanism 309 is not limited to specific equipment, as long as it does not directly contact the liquid composition 12A. The heating mechanism 309 can be, for example, a resistance furnace, an infrared heater, a fan heater, etc. Alternatively, multiple heating mechanisms 309 may be provided. UV curing equipment for polymerization can be provided.

[0259] It is also preferable to heat the liquid composition 12A that has been discharged onto the electrode substrate 211. Heating can also be performed using a stage or a heating mechanism other than a stage. The heating mechanism can also be positioned above or below the electrode substrate 211. Alternatively, multiple heating mechanisms can be provided.

[0260] There are no particular limitations on the heating temperature. An anode composition layer is formed when the liquid composition 12A is dried by heating. That is, when the liquid composition 12A contains a binder precursor, the heating temperature is preferably a temperature that allows the binder precursor to polymerize, and from the perspective of the energy used, the heating temperature is preferably in the range of 70°C to 150°C. Furthermore, when the liquid composition 12A is heated and discharged onto the electrode substrate 211, it can be irradiated with ultraviolet light.

[0261] In addition, such as Figure 31 As shown, the container 307A can supply a liquid composition from the container 313A connected to the container 307A, and the liquid discharge head 306 may include a plurality of liquid discharge heads 306A and 306B.

[0262] <Arrangement for directly discharging liquid composition to form a layer containing electrode material>

[0263] Figure 32A and 32B These are views showing examples of printing units employing the transfer printing method. Figure 32A A printing unit using an intermediate transfer drum is shown, and Figure 24 B shows a printing unit using a circular intermediate transfer belt.

[0264] Figure 32A The printing unit 400' shown is an inkjet printer that forms a functional layer on a base material by transferring a liquid composition onto the base material via an intermediate transfer member 4001.

[0265] The printing unit 400' includes an inkjet unit 420', a transfer drum 4000, a pretreatment unit 4002, an absorption unit 4003, a heating unit 4004, and a cleaning unit 4005.

[0266] The inkjet unit 420' includes a head module 422 that holds a plurality of heads 1011. The heads 1011 discharge liquid ink onto an intermediate transfer member 4001 supported by a transfer drum 4000 to form an ink layer on the intermediate transfer member 4001. Each head 1011 is a line-type printing head, with nozzles arranged on the printing head within the width of a printing area covering the maximum usable base material. Each head 1011 includes a nozzle face on its lower surface in which nozzles are formed. The nozzle face faces the surface of the intermediate transfer member 4001, with a small gap between them. Because the intermediate transfer member 4001 is arranged to move along a circular track in this embodiment, the plurality of heads 1011 are arranged radially.

[0267] The transfer drum 4000 faces the impression cylinder 621 and forms a transfer clamping portion. The pretreatment unit 4002 applies a reaction liquid to the intermediate transfer member 4001 to increase the ink viscosity before the ink discharge operation at the head 1011. The absorption unit 4003 absorbs the liquid components from the ink layer on the intermediate transfer member 4001 before transfer. The heating unit 4004 heats the ink layer on the intermediate transfer member 4001 before transfer. Heating the ink layer melts the resin in the ink layer and improves its transferability on the base material. The cleaning unit 4005 cleans the surface of the intermediate transfer member 4001 after transfer to remove residual ink and debris such as dust.

[0268] The outer peripheral surface of the impression cylinder 621 is pressed against the intermediate transfer member 4001, and when the base material passes through the transfer clamping portion between the impression cylinder 621 and the intermediate transfer member 4001, the ink layer on the intermediate transfer member 4001 is transferred onto the base material. Note that at least one clamping mechanism that can hold the leading edge portion of the base material can be arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the impression cylinder 621.

[0269] Figure 32B The printing unit 400″ shown is an inkjet printer that forms a functional layer on the surface of a base material by transferring a liquid composition onto the base material via an intermediate transfer belt 4006.

[0270] The printing unit 400″ ejects ink droplets from a plurality of heads 1011 arranged in the inkjet unit 420′ to form an ink layer on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt 4006. The ink layer formed on the intermediate transfer belt 4006 is dried by the drying unit 4007, and the ink layer becomes a film on the intermediate transfer belt 4006.

[0271] The ink layer that has formed a film on the intermediate transfer belt 4006 is transferred to the base material at the transfer clamping part of the intermediate transfer belt 4006 facing the transfer roller 622. After the transfer, the cleaning roller 4008 cleans the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 4006.

[0272] The intermediate transfer belt 4006 is wound around the drive roller 4009a, the opposing roller 4009b, a plurality of (four in this example) shape-holding rollers 4009c, 4009d, 4009e and 4009f, and a plurality of (four in this example) support rollers 4009g, and along... Figure 32B The movement is indicated by the arrow in the diagram. As ink droplets are discharged from the liquid discharge head 1011, the support roller 4009g, positioned facing the head 1011, maintains the tension of the intermediate transfer belt 4006.

[0273] <Manufacturing Methods of Electrochemical Equipment>

[0274] A method for manufacturing an electrochemical device includes: discharging liquid through a liquid discharge device, the liquid discharge device including a liquid chamber, a supply unit, a valve member, a moving unit, and a control unit; the liquid chamber including a discharge orifice; the supply unit being configured to supply pressurized liquid containing electrode material to the liquid chamber; the valve member being disposed in the liquid chamber and including a valve portion configured to open and close the discharge orifice; the moving unit being configured to move the valve member; and the control unit being configured to control the movement of the valve portion via the moving unit. The movement of the valve member includes a first movement and a second movement, wherein in the first movement, the valve portion moves from a second position to a first position, and in the second movement, the valve portion reciprocates between a first position and a third position, wherein the first position is a position where the discharge orifice is opened by the valve portion, the second position is a position where the discharge orifice is closed by the valve portion, and the third position is a position between the first and second positions, and wherein the liquid discharge device discharges liquid containing electrode material onto an electrode substrate during liquid discharge. This method of manufacturing an electrochemical device can achieve effects similar to those described with the liquid discharge device.

[0275] In addition, methods for manufacturing electrochemical devices may also include processes for manufacturing electrochemical devices, such as processes for treating the base materials of electrodes for battery cell components.

[0276] <Basic Material Processing Unit>

[0277] The base material processing unit processes the base material W on which the functional film is formed in a stage further downstream of the printing unit 400'. The base material processing unit can perform at least one of cutting, folding, or bonding. For example, the base material processing unit can cut the base material W to create a base material stack. The base material processing unit can wind or stack the base material W. If the insulating layer contains a material having a melting point or glass transition temperature, at least a portion of one base material stack can be adhered to another base material stack by heating in the base material processing unit.

[0278] The base material processing unit includes, for example, base material processing equipment. The base material processing unit performs tasks such as cutting, Z-folding, stacking, or winding the base material W according to the desired form of the battery, and thermally bonding the base material after stacking or winding. When the base material processing unit is processing the base material, the conveying speed of the electrode substrate can be set to a relatively low speed to reduce damage such as wrinkling of the processed base material.

[0279] The base material processing procedure performed by the base material processing unit is, for example, a process for processing the base material W on which a functional film is formed downstream of the printing unit 400'. The base material processing procedure may include at least one of a cutting process, a folding process, or a bonding process.

[0280] The numbers (such as ordinal numbers, quantities, etc.) used in the description of the embodiments are merely examples for illustrating the techniques of this disclosure in detail, and this disclosure is not limited to the illustrated numbers. Connections between components are illustrated to provide a detailed description of the techniques of this disclosure, and the connections used to implement the functions of this disclosure are not limited to those shown.

[0281] Note that the box divisions shown in the function diagram are merely examples. Multiple boxes can be implemented as a single box, divided into two or more boxes, and / or some functions can be transferred to another box. Furthermore, the functions of multiple boxes with similar capabilities can be processed by a single piece of hardware or software through parallel or time-sharing processing.

[0282] Furthermore, the functions of the above embodiments can also be implemented by one or more processing circuits. Here, it is assumed that the "processing circuit" includes a processor programmed to perform each function by software, such as a processor implemented in an electronic circuit, a device designed to perform each function as described above, such as an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), and a conventional circuit module.

[0283] The aspects disclosed herein are, for example, as follows.

[0284] <1> A liquid discharge device includes: a liquid chamber including a discharge orifice; a supply unit configured to supply pressurized liquid to the liquid chamber; a first valve member disposed in the liquid chamber and including a valve portion configured to open and close the discharge orifice; a moving unit configured to move the first valve member; and a stirring mechanism configured to stir the pressurized liquid in the liquid chamber.

[0285] <2> like <1> The liquid discharge device wherein the stirring mechanism is configured to stir the liquid in the liquid chamber when the discharge port is open.

[0286] <3> like <1> or <2> The liquid discharge device, wherein the stirring mechanism includes a control unit configured to control the movement of a first valve member via the moving unit, wherein the movement of the first valve member includes a first movement and a second movement, wherein in the first movement the valve part moves from a second position toward a first position, and in the second movement the valve part reciprocates between a first position and a third position, and wherein the first position is a position where the discharge orifice is opened by the valve part, the second position is a position where the discharge orifice is closed by the valve part, and the third position is a position between the first position and the second position.

[0287] <4> like <3> The liquid discharge device, wherein the moving unit is configured to move a first valve member according to an applied voltage, wherein the control unit is configured to apply a first voltage to the moving unit to move the valve member to a first position, apply a second voltage to the moving unit to move the valve member to a second position, and apply a third voltage to move the valve member to a third position, and wherein the first voltage is lower than the second voltage, and the third voltage is higher than the first voltage but lower than the second voltage.

[0288] <5> like <4> The liquid discharge device wherein E2>E3≥(E2-E1)×0.05+E1, where E1 is the first voltage, E2 is the second voltage, and E3 is the third voltage.

[0289] <6> like <3> The liquid discharge device, wherein the moving unit is configured to move a first valve member according to an applied voltage, wherein the control unit is configured to apply a first voltage to the moving unit to move the valve member to a first position, apply a second voltage to the moving unit to move the valve member to a second position, and apply a third voltage to move the valve member to a third position, wherein the first voltage is higher than the second voltage, and the third voltage is higher than the second voltage but lower than the first voltage.

[0290] <7> like <6> The liquid discharge device is provided in which E1×0.95≥E3>0, where E1 is the first voltage and E3 is the third voltage.

[0291] <8> like <4> to <7> The liquid discharge device according to any one of the following, wherein if the second voltage is higher than the first voltage, the control unit applies a third voltage that is a predetermined voltage higher than the first voltage to the moving unit to perform a second movement, wherein if the first voltage is higher than the second voltage, the control unit applies a third voltage that is a predetermined voltage lower than the second voltage to the moving unit to perform a second movement, and wherein the control unit further includes a first voltage modifier configured to modify the predetermined voltage according to the temperature of the moving unit.

[0292] <9> like <4> to <8> The liquid discharge device according to any one of the following methods further includes a second voltage modifier configured to modify the third voltage based on the number of movements performed by the moving unit.

[0293] <10> like <3> The liquid discharge device wherein the moving unit moves a first valve member according to an applied voltage, wherein the control unit applies a voltage to the moving unit for moving the valve member to a second position for an application period shorter than a predetermined time period, and wherein the predetermined time period is the time taken to move the valve member to the second position after the voltage for moving the valve member to the second position has been applied to the moving unit.

[0294] <11> like <10> The liquid discharge device wherein Δt0×0.95≥Δt>0 is satisfied, where Δt0 is a predetermined time period and Δt is the applied time period.

[0295] <12> like <10> or <11> The liquid discharge device further includes a first time modifier configured to modify the applied time period based on the temperature of the moving unit.

[0296] <13> like <10> to <12> The liquid discharge device according to any one of the following methods further includes a second time modifier configured to modify the applied time period based on the number of movements performed by the moving unit.

[0297] <14> like <2> to <13> The liquid discharge device according to any one of the following statements, wherein the moving unit includes a piezoelectric element configured to contract and expand according to an applied voltage.

[0298] <15> like <2> ~ <14> The liquid discharge device according to any one of the following, wherein the liquid is one of the following: a liquid with a viscosity greater than 10 mPa·s, a liquid with a thixotropic index greater than 1.3 representing structural viscosity, a liquid with a solid content greater than 20% by weight, or a liquid containing particles with a particle size greater than 5 μm.

[0299] <16> like <2> to <15> The liquid discharge device according to any one of the following, wherein the reciprocating frequency of the second movement is greater than or equal to 100 Hz.

[0300] <17> like <1> to <16> The liquid discharge device according to any one of the following further includes: a first liquid channel and a second liquid channel located between the supply unit and the liquid chamber; and a liquid pressure fluctuation unit configured to cause pressure fluctuation on a liquid applied in at least one of the first liquid channel or the second liquid channel, wherein the stirring mechanism is configured to use the liquid pressure fluctuation unit to cause pressure fluctuation on a liquid applied in at least one of the first liquid channel or the second liquid channel.

[0301] <18> like <1> to <17> The liquid discharge device according to any one of the following further includes: a first pressurizing unit and a second pressurizing unit, each pressurizing unit being configured to pressurize the liquid in the supply unit; and a second valve member disposed in a liquid passage between the second pressurizing unit and the supply unit, and configured to open and close the liquid passage, wherein the pressure applied by the first pressurizing unit is different from the pressure applied by the second pressurizing unit, and wherein the stirring mechanism is configured to use the second valve member to open and close the liquid passage between the second pressurizing unit and the supply unit.

[0302] <19> A coating apparatus, comprising <1> to <18> The liquid discharge device according to any one of the following statements, wherein the coating device applies the liquid discharged from the liquid discharge device onto the substrate.

[0303] <20> A liquid discharge method performed by a liquid discharge device, the liquid discharge device comprising a liquid chamber having a discharge orifice, a supply unit configured to supply pressurized liquid to the liquid chamber, a first valve member disposed in the liquid chamber and including a valve portion configured to open and close the discharge orifice, a moving unit configured to move the first valve member, and a control unit configured to control the movement of the first valve member via the moving unit, wherein the movement of the first valve member includes a first movement and a second movement, wherein in the first movement the valve portion moves from a second position toward a first position, and in the second movement the valve portion reciprocates between a first position and a third position, and wherein the first position is a position where the discharge orifice is opened by the valve portion, the second position is a position where the discharge orifice is closed by the valve portion, and the third position is a position between the first position and the second position.

[0304] <21> A method of manufacturing an electrode includes discharging liquid through a liquid discharge device, the liquid discharge device including a liquid chamber, a supply unit, a first valve member, a moving unit, and a control unit. The liquid chamber includes a discharge orifice. The supply unit is configured to supply pressurized liquid to the liquid chamber. The first valve member is disposed in the liquid chamber and includes a valve portion configured to open and close the discharge orifice. The moving unit is configured to move the first valve member. The control unit is configured to control the movement of the first valve member via the moving unit. The movement of the first valve member includes a first movement and a second movement. In the first movement, the valve portion moves from a second position toward a first position. In the second movement, the valve portion reciprocates between a first position and a third position. The first position is a position where the discharge orifice is opened by the valve portion. The second position is a position where the discharge orifice is closed by the valve portion. The third position is a position between the first position and the second position. During liquid discharge, the liquid discharge device discharges liquid containing electrode material to form a layer containing electrode material on a target object.

[0305] This application is based on and claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-141829, filed August 31, 2021, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-091905, filed June 6, 2022. The entire contents of these applications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0306] List of reference numerals

[0307] 1 Liquid discharge device

[0308] 100 heads

[0309] 101 Actuator

[0310] 102 Frame

[0311] 103 First valve component

[0312] 104 Valve section

[0313] 105 Discharge port

[0314] 106 Liquid Chamber

[0315] 107 manifold

[0316] 108 independent liquid channels

[0317] 109 Discharge orifice plate

[0318] 110 Liquid Supply Unit

[0319] 111 Liquid Storage Tank

[0320] 112 Air compressor

[0321] 113 Air Box

[0322] 114 Regulator

[0323] 120 controller

[0324] 121 Input Unit

[0325] 122 Drive Voltage Generator

[0326] 123 Amplifier

[0327] 124 Output Units

[0328] 125 First Voltage Modifier

[0329] 126 Movement Counter

[0330] 127 Second Voltage Modifier

[0331] 128 First-Time Modifier

[0332] 129 Second Time Modifier

[0333] 130 Temperature Sensor

[0334] 200 liquid

[0335] 300 First pressurization unit

[0336] 320 First Liquid Channel

[0337] 420 Second Liquid Channel

[0338] 600 Second pressurization unit

[0339] 610 Second valve component

[0340] 1001 Coating Device

[0341] E1 First Voltage

[0342] E2 Second Voltage

[0343] E3 Third Voltage

[0344] P1 First Position

[0345] P2 Second Position

[0346] P3 Third Position

[0347] M1 First Movement

[0348] M2 Second Move

[0349] t1, t2 time

[0350] IM pattern data

[0351] Δt0 Pre-booking period

[0352] Δt application time period

[0353] U target object

Claims

1. A liquid discharge device, comprising: A liquid chamber, the liquid chamber including a discharge port; A supply unit configured to supply pressurized liquid to the liquid chamber; A first valve component is disposed in the liquid chamber and includes a valve portion configured to open and close the discharge port; A movable unit configured to move a first valve component; as well as A stirring mechanism configured to stir the pressurized liquid in the liquid chamber. The stirring mechanism includes a control unit configured to control the movement of the first valve member via the moving unit. The movement of the first valve component includes a first movement and a second movement. In the first movement, the valve portion moves from a second position toward a first position. In the second movement, the valve portion reciprocates between the first position and a third position. The first position is the position where the discharge port is opened by the valve. The second position is the position where the discharge port is closed by the valve section, and The third position is the position between the first and second positions.

2. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1, wherein the stirring mechanism is configured to stir the liquid in the liquid chamber when the discharge orifice is open.

3. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1, wherein the moving unit is configured to move the first valve member according to the applied voltage. The control unit is configured to apply a first voltage to the moving unit to move the valve to a first position, apply a second voltage to the moving unit to move the valve to a second position, and apply a third voltage to move the valve to a third position. The first voltage is lower than the second voltage, and The third voltage is higher than the first voltage but lower than the second voltage.

4. The liquid discharge device according to claim 3, wherein E2>E3≥(E2-E1)×0.05+E1, where E1 is the first voltage, E2 is the second voltage, and E3 is the third voltage.

5. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1, wherein the moving unit is configured to move the first valve member according to the applied voltage. The control unit is configured to apply a first voltage to the moving unit to move the valve to a first position, apply a second voltage to the moving unit to move the valve to a second position, and apply a third voltage to move the valve to a third position. The first voltage is higher than the second voltage, and The third voltage is higher than the second voltage but lower than the first voltage.

6. The liquid discharge device according to claim 5, wherein E1×0.95≥E3>0, where E1 is a first voltage and E3 is a third voltage.

7. The liquid discharge device according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein when the second voltage is higher than the first voltage, the control unit applies a third voltage, which is a predetermined voltage higher than the first voltage, to the moving unit to perform a second movement. When the first voltage is higher than the second voltage, the control unit applies a third voltage, which is higher than the second voltage by a predetermined voltage, to the moving unit to perform a second movement. The control unit further includes a first voltage modifier configured to modify the predetermined voltage based on the temperature of the moving unit.

8. The liquid discharge device according to any one of claims 3 to 6, further comprising: A second voltage modifier is configured to modify a third voltage based on the number of movements performed by the moving unit.

9. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1, wherein the moving unit moves the first valve member according to the applied voltage. The control unit applies a voltage to the moving unit for moving the valve to the second position during an application period shorter than a predetermined time period. The predetermined time period is the time period taken to move the valve to the second position after the voltage for moving the valve to the second position has been applied to the moving unit.

10. The liquid discharge device according to claim 9, wherein Δt0×0.95≥Δt>0 is satisfied, where Δt0 represents the predetermined time period and Δt represents the applied time period.

11. The liquid discharge device according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising: A first-time modifier is configured to modify the applied time period based on the temperature of the moving unit.

12. The liquid discharge device according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising: A second time modifier is configured to modify the applied time period based on the number of movements performed by the moving unit.

13. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1, wherein the moving unit includes a piezoelectric element configured to contract and expand according to an applied voltage.

14. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1, wherein the reciprocating frequency of the second movement is greater than or equal to 100 Hz.

15. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A first liquid channel and a second liquid channel are located between the supply unit and the liquid chamber; and A liquid pressure fluctuation unit, configured to cause pressure fluctuations on a liquid applied within at least one of a first liquid channel or a second liquid channel. The stirring mechanism is configured to use the liquid pressure fluctuation unit to cause pressure fluctuations applied to the liquid in at least one of the first liquid channel or the second liquid channel.

16. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A first pressurizing unit and a second pressurizing unit, each configured to pressurize the liquid in the supply unit; and A second valve component is disposed in the liquid passage between the second pressurizing unit and the supply unit, and is configured to open and close the liquid passage. The pressure applied by the first pressurizing unit is different from the pressure applied by the second pressurizing unit, and The stirring mechanism is configured to use a second valve component to open and close the liquid passage between the second pressurization unit and the supply unit.

17. A coating apparatus comprising the liquid discharge device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the coating apparatus applies liquid discharged from the liquid discharge device onto a substrate.

18. A liquid discharge method performed by a liquid discharge device, comprising: A liquid chamber, the liquid chamber including a discharge port, A supply unit configured to supply pressurized liquid to the liquid chamber. A first valve component, disposed in the liquid chamber and including a valve portion configured to open and close the discharge orifice, The moving unit is configured to move the first valve member, and A control unit configured to control the movement of the first valve member via the moving unit. The movement of the first valve component includes a first movement and a second movement. In the first movement, the valve portion moves from a second position toward a first position. In the second movement, the valve portion reciprocates between the first position and a third position. The first position is the position where the discharge port is opened by the valve. The second position is the position where the discharge port is closed by the valve section, and The third position is the position between the first and second positions.

19. The liquid discharge method according to claim 18, wherein the liquid is one of the following: a liquid with a viscosity greater than 10 mPa·s, a liquid with a thixotropic index greater than 1.3 representing structural viscosity, a liquid with a solid content greater than 20 wt%, or a liquid containing particles with a particle size greater than 5 μm.

20. The liquid discharge method according to claim 18, wherein when discharging the liquid, the liquid discharge device discharges a liquid containing electrode material to form a layer containing electrode material on the discharge target object.

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