Liquid ejecting apparatus

Abstract

In a conventional inkjet printer in which information relating to the remaining amount of ink is represented by light emission of a light emitting unit, the light emission of the light emitting unit is not associated with a site to be operated next by a user. The invention provides a liquid ejecting apparatus, which is characterized by comprising: an apparatus main body provided with a liquid ejecting head that ejects a liquid onto a medium; and a liquid accommodating portion accommodating the liquid ejected from the liquid ejection head, the liquid accommodating portion including: a liquid supply port; and an opening / closing cover capable of switching between a closed state in which the supply port is covered and an open state in which the supply port is exposed, the opening / closing cover being provided with a light-emitting part that emits light in accordance with the remaining amount of the liquid contained in the liquid containing part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid ejecting device for ejecting liquid onto a medium for recording. Background Art

[0002] In an inkjet printer as an example of a liquid ejecting device, a configuration in which information on the remaining amount of liquid is displayed by light emission from a light emitting unit as disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 has been conventionally adopted.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-8106

[0004] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-74548

[0005] When a malfunction occurs in the light source of the light emitting unit and maintenance work such as replacement of the light source is required, in the conventional structure, the housing of the device needs to be disassembled on a large scale, making the maintenance work difficult. Summary of the invention

[0006] The liquid ejection device of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned technical problems is characterized in that it comprises: a device body, comprising a liquid ejection head for ejecting liquid onto a medium; and a liquid containing portion for containing liquid ejected from the liquid ejection head, wherein the liquid containing portion comprises: a liquid supply port; and an opening and closing cover, which can be switched between a closed state covering the supply port and an open state exposing the supply port, and a light-emitting portion that emits light according to the state of the device body is arranged on the opening and closing cover. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 It is a three-dimensional diagram of a printer.

[0008] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the printer.

[0009] Figure 3A It is a perspective view of the cover unit.

[0010] Figure 3B It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the cover unit.

[0011] Figure 3C It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the cover unit.

[0012] Figure 3D It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the cover unit.

[0013] Figure 3E It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the cover unit.

[0014] Figure 3F It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the cover unit.

[0015] Figure 3G It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the cover unit.

[0016] Figure 3H It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the cover unit.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the printer with the cover unit opened.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the ink containing portion in a state where the cover unit is opened.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of the ink containing portion cut along the YZ plane.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the cover unit as seen from the back side.

[0021] Fig. 8A This is a cross-sectional view of the ink containing portion cut along the YZ plane.

[0022] Figure 8B This is a cross-sectional view of the ink containing portion cut along the YZ plane.

[0023] Figure 8C This is a cross-sectional view of the ink containing portion cut along the YZ plane.

[0024] Fig. 9 This is a perspective view of the printer with the document cover opened.

[0025] Fig.10 This is a cross-sectional view of the ink containing portion cut along the YZ plane.

[0026] Fig.11 This is a cross-sectional view of the ink containing portion cut along the XZ plane.

[0027] Fig.12 This is a perspective view of the printer in a state where the document cover is omitted from the illustration.

[0028] Fig.13 This is a cross-sectional view of the operation panel cut along the YZ plane.

[0029] Fig.14 This is a top view of the printer.

[0030] Fig.15 This is a top view of the printer.

[0031] Fig.16 is a side view of the printer.

[0032] Fig.17 It is an exploded perspective view of the cover unit.

[0033] Fig.18 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the light guide component.

[0034] Fig.19 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the light guide component.

[0035] Fig. 20 It is a top view of the light guide component and the substrate.

[0036] Fig.21 It is a stereogram of the light source and the first hole.

[0037] Fig. 22 It is a diagram schematically showing how light travels inside a light guide member.

[0038] Fig.23 It is a diagram for explaining the arrangement of the third hole.

[0039] Fig.24 It is a diagram schematically showing how light travels inside a light guide member.

[0040] Fig.25 It is a diagram for explaining the arrangement of the third hole.

[0041] Fig.26 It is a diagram schematically showing how light travels inside a light guide member.

[0042] Fig. 27 It is a diagram schematically showing how light travels inside a light guide member.

[0043] Fig.28 It is a top view of a light guide component and a substrate according to another embodiment.

[0044] Fig.29 It is a partially enlarged view of a light guide component according to another embodiment.

[0045] Fig.30 This is a diagram showing an example of an external appearance pattern of an ink containing portion.

[0046] Description of Reference Numerals

[0047] 1A, 1B: inkjet printer; 2: device body; 3: scanner unit; 3a: cutout; 3b: first step; 3c: unit body; 5: reading sensor; 6: manuscript table; 6a: loading surface; 7: frame member; 8: manuscript cover; 8a: cutout; 9: manuscript feeding device; 9a: cutout; 10: ink containing part; 13: discharge tray; 14: front cover; 15: operation panel; 15a: panel surface; 15b: second step; 16: carriage; 17: ink ejection head; 18, 18A, 18B, 18C, 18D: ink tank; 19, 19A, 19B, 19C, 19D: ink supply port; 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D: sealing cover; 21, 21A, 21B, 21C, 21D: opening and closing lever; 23, 23A, 23B, 23C, 23D: remaining visual confirmation part; 41: maintenance unit; 42: waste liquid storage part; 45, 45A, 45B, 45C, 45D, 45E, 45F, 45G, 45H: cover unit; 45a: rotating shaft; 46: cover member; 46a : wall; 46b: cutout; 46c-1, 46c-2: hole; 46d: plate; 46e: base; 46f: recess; 47: outer packaging member; 50, 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D, 50E, 50F, 50G, 50H: light emitting portion; 51: substrate; 51a, 51b, 51c: hole; 52, 52A, 52B, 52C, 52D: LED; 53: light guide member; 53a: plate; 53b: outer wall; 53c: groove; 53d1, 53d2: hole; 54 : Reflection sheet; 54a, 54b, 54c: hole; 55: shading sheet; 55a, 55b, 55c: hole; 56: retaining member; 56f: boss; 56g: screw fitting portion; 57: color filter; 58: screw; 60, 60A, 60B, 60C, 60D: light source; h1: first hole; h2: second hole; h3, h3a, h3b, h3c: third hole; h4: fourth hole; E, E1, E2, E3, E4: periphery; K1: top light-emitting surface; K2: inner light-emitting surface; K3: outer light-emitting surface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] Hereinafter, the present invention will be briefly described.

[0049] The liquid ejection device involved in the first embodiment is characterized in that it comprises: a device body, which has a liquid ejection head for ejecting liquid onto a medium; and a liquid containing portion, which contains the liquid ejected from the liquid ejection head, and the liquid containing portion comprises: a liquid supply port; and an opening and closing cover, which can be switched between a closed state covering the supply port and an open state exposing the supply port, and a light-emitting portion that emits light from a light source according to the state of the device body is arranged on the opening and closing cover.

[0050] According to this embodiment, since the light emitting portion that emits the light emitted by the light source according to the state of the device body is provided on the opening and closing cover, when maintenance work such as replacement of the light source is required, it is sufficient to remove the cover, or maintenance work can be performed without removing the cover. Thus, it is not necessary to disassemble the housing of the device on a large scale, and maintenance work becomes easy.

[0051] A second aspect is an aspect dependent on the first aspect, and is characterized in that the light emitting portion emits light in accordance with a remaining amount of the liquid contained in the liquid containing portion.

[0052] In the prior art, the association between the light emitted by the light emitting unit and the part that the user should operate next is not established, and there is room for improvement in terms of ease of use. For example, there is a prior art having the following structure: a remaining amount display unit is provided at a position corresponding to each color ink cartridge, and the remaining amount display unit corresponding to the ink cartridge that has run out of ink is lit, but it only shows which ink cartridge has run out of ink, and does not show the part that the user should operate next.

[0053] However, according to this embodiment, since the liquid storage portion includes: a liquid supply port; and an openable and closable cover that can be switched between a closed state covering the supply port and an open state exposing the supply port, the user needs to open the openable and closable cover when the need to replenish the liquid arises.

[0054] Moreover, in such a configuration, according to this method, since the opening and closing cover is configured to illuminate according to the remaining amount of liquid contained in the liquid containing portion, that is, the part that the user should operate illuminates, the user can visually grasp the part that the user should operate next, which can improve usability.

[0055] A third aspect is an aspect dependent on the first aspect, and is characterized in that the light emitting portion is provided at an upper end portion of the opening and closing cover.

[0056] According to this aspect, since the light emitting portion is provided at the upper end portion of the opening and closing cover, the visibility of the light emitting portion is improved.

[0057] It should be noted that this embodiment is not limited to the first embodiment described above, but may also be subordinate to the second embodiment described above.

[0058] A fourth aspect is an aspect dependent on the third aspect, and is characterized in that the light emitting portion is provided in an annular shape along an outer circumference of the opening and closing cover at an upper end portion of the opening and closing cover.

[0059] According to this aspect, since the light emitting portion is provided in a ring shape along the outer circumference of the opening and closing cover at the upper end portion of the opening and closing cover, the length of the region where the light emitting portion emits light can be ensured, and the visibility of the light emitting portion is improved.

[0060] A fifth aspect is an aspect dependent on the fourth aspect, and is characterized in that a region inside the light emitting portion of the opening and closing cover is recessed.

[0061] According to this aspect, since the region inside the light emitting portion of the opening and closing cover is recessed, the light emitting portion is more easily visible, and the visibility of the light emitting portion is improved.

[0062] In addition, the opening and closing cover can be opened and closed by hooking the outer peripheral portion of the upper end portion of the opening and closing cover with a finger, thereby improving the operability of the opening and closing cover.

[0063] It should be noted that this embodiment is not limited to the fourth embodiment described above, but may also be subordinate to the third embodiment described above.

[0064] The sixth mode is a mode subordinate to the fifth mode, and is characterized in that the opening and closing cover is opened and closed by rotating with the upper end as the free end during rotation, and the opening and closing cover is opened from a closed state by moving the upper end forward, and is closed from an open state by moving the upper end backward.

[0065] According to this method, since the opening and closing cover is opened and closed by rotating with the upper end being the free end when rotating, and the opening and closing cover is opened from a closed state by moving the upper end forward, and is closed from an open state by moving the upper end backward, when the opening and closing cover is opened and closed, no space is required above or on the side of the device, which can save the space required for setting up the device.

[0066] In addition, since the area inside the light emitting portion in the upper end of the opening and closing cover is recessed, the user can hook the light emitting portion with a finger to open and close the opening and closing cover, thereby improving the operability of the opening and closing cover. In addition, the light emitting portion becomes the part where the user's finger hooks, thereby making it easier to identify the part that the user should operate.

[0067] It should be noted that this embodiment is not limited to the fifth embodiment described above, and may also be subordinate to the third or fourth embodiment described above.

[0068] A seventh aspect is an aspect dependent on the fourth aspect, and is characterized in that a light emitting portion of the light emitting unit visually moves along an outer periphery of the opening and closing cover.

[0069] According to this aspect, since the light emitting portion of the light emitting unit visually moves along the outer circumference of the opening and closing cover, the visibility of the light emitting unit is further improved.

[0070] It should be noted that the visual movement of the light-emitting portion of the light-emitting unit does not mean that the light-emitting unit physically moves, but means that the light-emitting portion of the light-emitting unit changes over time, and as a result, it looks like the light-emitting portion is moving. For example, when a plurality of light sources are arranged in a straight line, if the light sources are turned on and off in sequence from one end to the other end, it can visually look like the light-emitting portion is moving.

[0071] It should be noted that this embodiment is not limited to the fourth embodiment described above, and may also be subordinate to the fifth or sixth embodiment described above.

[0072] The eighth method is a method subordinate to the second method, and is characterized in that the liquid holding portion has a remaining amount visual confirmation portion on a side of the liquid holding portion for visually confirming the remaining amount of the liquid, and the light-emitting portion is arranged in the opening and closing cover at the lower end of the side surface located above the remaining amount visual confirmation portion.

[0073] According to this aspect, since the remaining amount visual confirmation portion for visually confirming the remaining amount of the liquid is provided on the side surface of the liquid storage portion, the remaining amount of the liquid can be appropriately grasped.

[0074] Moreover, since the light-emitting portion is provided at the lower end of the side surface above the remaining amount visual confirmation portion in the opening and closing cover, the remaining amount visual confirmation portion and the light-emitting portion can be visually confirmed at a close distance, and the user can easily visually confirm information related to the remaining amount of the liquid.

[0075] A ninth aspect is an aspect subordinate to any one of the first to eighth aspects, characterized in that the opening and closing cover includes a light guide component, which is a component constituting the upper end of the opening and closing cover and is a component into which the light emitted by the light source is incident, and emits the incident light to the outside. According to this aspect, in the configuration in which the opening and closing cover includes the light guide component, the effects of any one of the third to seventh aspects can be obtained.

[0076] The tenth mode is a mode belonging to any one of the first to eighth modes, and is characterized in that it comprises a reading unit, which is a unit that can be opened and closed in the upper part of the device body, and reads the image of the original document. The reading unit has a cutout portion at the corner on the front side of the device, a part of the liquid holding portion enters the cutout portion, and the top of the liquid holding portion is open.

[0077] According to this embodiment, since the reading unit has a cutout portion at the corner of the front side of the device, a part of the liquid containing portion enters the cutout portion, and the top of the liquid containing portion is open, the liquid containing portion can be accessed from the top without opening the reading unit, and the operation of replenishing the liquid in the liquid containing portion can be easily performed. In addition, since a part of the liquid containing portion is set to enter the cutout portion, the liquid containing portion does not protrude greatly from the front surface of the device to the front, and the enlargement of the device can be suppressed.

[0078] The eleventh mode is a mode subordinate to the first mode, characterized in that the appearance pattern of the shell forming the outer surface of the liquid storage part is formed by dispersing a second color different from the first color in at least one of hue, lightness and chroma in a first color as a base.

[0079] It should be noted that this embodiment is not limited to the first embodiment, but may also be any one of the second to tenth embodiments.

[0080] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail.

[0081] In each figure, the X-axis direction is the device width direction. When the front surface of the device faces the user, when viewed from the user, the -X direction is the right direction and the +X direction is the left direction.

[0082] In addition, the Y-axis direction is the depth direction of the device, the +Y direction is the direction from the back of the device to the front of the device, and the -Y direction is the direction from the front of the device to the back of the device. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the side of the device on which the operation panel 15 is provided, that is, the side in the +Y direction, becomes the front of the device.

[0083] In addition, the Z-axis direction is a vertical direction, the +Z direction is vertically upward, and the -Z direction is vertically downward.

[0084] <Overall Configuration of Printer>

[0085] exist Figure 1 In the present invention, an inkjet printer 1A as an example of a liquid ejecting device is a multifunction device including a scanner unit 3 as an example of a reading unit on an upper portion of a device body 2. Hereinafter, an inkjet printer is simply referred to as a "printer".

[0086] The device body 2 is box-shaped as a whole, and the device body 2 and the scanner unit 3 are configured to be substantially flush with each other on the side surface in the -X direction, i.e., the right side surface, and the side surface in the +X direction, i.e., the left side surface. It should be noted that the right side surface and the left side surface of the device body 2 and the scanner unit 3 are parallel to the YZ plane.

[0087] The device body 2 has a function of recording on a medium represented by recording paper, and the scanner unit 3 has a function of reading a manuscript. The device body 2 includes an ink ejection head 17 (see Fig.14 , Fig.16 The ink ejection head 17 is provided on a carriage 16 that moves in the X-axis direction, that is, in the medium width direction (see Fig.14 , Fig.16 ). Ink is supplied to the ink ejection head 17 from an ink container 10 as an example of a liquid container which will be described later via an ink tube which is not shown.

[0088] The scanner unit 3 includes a reading sensor 5 extending in the Y-axis direction in the unit main body 3c (see Fig.14 The reading sensor 5 as an example of a reading unit for reading the original document is constituted by a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) in this embodiment, and reads the original document placed on the original document table 6 (see FIG. 1 ) while moving in the X-axis direction. Fig. 9 As an example, the document table 6 is formed of glass.

[0089] A document cover 8 capable of opening and closing the document table 6 is provided on the upper portion of the document table 6. The document cover 8 is connected to the unit body 3c of the scanner unit 3 via a hinge (not shown) provided at the rear of the device. The axis of rotation of the document cover 8 is parallel to the X-axis direction, and the document cover 8 is opened and closed by rotating with the +Y direction, i.e., the front of the device, as a free end.

[0090] It should be noted that, instead of the document cover 8 , a document feeding device that automatically feeds a placed document may be provided. Figure 2 The printer 1B shown is a printer having such a configuration, and is provided with a document feeder 9 instead of the document cover 8. The document feeder 9 is rotatably connected to the scanner unit 3 via a hinge (not shown) provided at the rear of the device, similarly to the document cover 8. The rotation axis of the document feeder 9 is parallel to the X-axis direction, and the document feeder 9 opens and closes the document table 6 by rotating with the +Y direction, i.e., the front of the device, as the free end.

[0091] When the document is read by the document feeding device 9, the reading sensor 5 (see Fig.14 ) reads the conveyed document in a state where the document is stopped at the end in the +X direction relative to the document table 6. It should be noted that in this case, the document is read by the document reading sensor 5 (refer to Fig.14) reads the first side, and a reading sensor (not shown) disposed inside the manuscript feeding device 9 reads the second side opposite to the first side. It should be noted that it is also possible to configure such that only the reading sensor 5 is provided, and a reversing path for reversing the manuscript is provided, and the manuscript is reversed through the reversing path and read by the reading sensor 5, thereby reading the first side and the second side of the manuscript.

[0092] It should be noted that the printer 1A and the printer 1B have the same basic structure of the device body 2 and the unit body 3 c constituting the scanner unit 3 .

[0093] Return to Figure 1 An operation panel 15 for performing various operation settings is provided on the front surface of the device. The operation panel 15 can be tilted and can be Figure 1 The first state shown in FIG. 1 and the second state in which the surface, that is, the panel surface 15a, is oriented vertically upward compared to the first state (see FIG. 1 ). Fig.12 , Fig.13 It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the panel surface 15a in the second state is slightly tilted downward to form a predetermined angle relative to the horizontal plane. However, the panel surface 15a in the second state may also be parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0094] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, a front cover 14 is provided on the lower side of the operation panel 15. The front cover 14 is provided to be openable and closable, and can be in a closed state ( Figure 1 When the front cover 14 is opened, the discharge tray 13 (see Fig.12 ) exposed.

[0095] The medium contained in the medium container is fed in the -Y direction by a feed roller (not shown), reversed, and recorded while being conveyed in the +Y direction, and then discharged in the +Y direction.

[0096] like Figure 1 As shown, the front cover 14 in the closed state is flush with the operation panel 15 in the first state.

[0097] Next, on the front surface of the apparatus main body 2 , an ink containing section 10 as an example of a liquid containing section is provided on the right side in the −X direction.

[0098] The ink storage unit 10 includes ink tanks 18A, 18B, 18C, and 18D (see Fig.11 ). It should be noted that, hereinafter, when the ink tanks 18A, 18B, 18C, and 18D are not distinguished, they are collectively referred to as the ink tank 18. The ink tank 18 constitutes the ink containing portion 10.

[0099] As an example, the ink tank 18A contains black ink, and the ink tanks 18B, 18C, and 18D contain color inks, such as yellow, magenta, and cyan inks, respectively.

[0100] like Figure 1 As shown, the ink tank 18 is provided inside the outer packaging member 47. An opening is provided on the front surface of the outer packaging member 47, whereby remaining amount visual confirmation portions 23A, 23B, 23C, and 23D for visually confirming the remaining amount of ink are exposed on the front surface of the device.

[0101] The remaining amount visual confirmation parts 23A, 23B, 23C, and 23D are parts of the ink tanks 18A, 18B, 18C, and 18D, respectively. That is, a part of the ink tanks 18A, 18B, 18C, and 18D is formed transparent or semi-transparent so that the inside can be visually confirmed, and this part becomes the remaining amount visual confirmation part 23A, 23B, 23C, and 23D. It should be noted that when there is no need to distinguish the remaining amount visual confirmation parts 23A, 23B, 23C, and 23D, they are collectively referred to as the remaining amount visual confirmation part 23.

[0102] It should be noted that the side surface of the outer packaging member 47 in the −X direction is flush with the side surfaces of the apparatus body 2 and the scanner unit 3 in the −X direction.

[0103] A cover unit 45A is provided on the upper portion of the outer packaging member 47. Figure 3A to Figure 3H As described above, the cover unit has a plurality of embodiments, and when there is no need to distinguish between them, they are collectively referred to as the cover unit 45. The cover unit 45 is an example of an opening and closing cover.

[0104] The cover unit 45 is based on the cover member 46. The cover member 46, that is, the cover unit 45, is provided so as to be able to rotate with a rotation shaft 45a ( Figure 8A to Figure 8C ) as the center of rotation, and the closed state can be obtained by rotation ( Figure 1 , Figure 8C ) and fully open state ( Fig. 8A ). In the present embodiment, the axis center line of the rotation shaft 45a is parallel to the X axis. The cover member 46, i.e., the cover unit 45, involved in the present embodiment is provided to be removable relative to the rotation shaft 45a. However, the cover member 46, i.e., the cover unit 45, may also be provided to be fixed relative to the rotation shaft 45a.

[0105] It should be noted that the side surface of the cover unit 45 in the −X direction is flush with the side surfaces of the apparatus body 2 and the scanner unit 3 in the −X direction.

[0106] In addition, the side surface in the +Y direction, that is, the front surface, of the cover unit 45 is flush with the side surface in the +Y direction, that is, the front surface, of the outer packaging member 47 .

[0107] like Figures 1 to 4 changes, or FIG. 8C to FIG. 8A As shown in the change, the cover unit 45 is opened from the closed state by rotating the upper end toward the front of the device with the upper end as the free end. It should be noted that the maximum opening angle of the cover unit 45 is smaller than 90° (also refer to Fig. 8A ), it is configured so that even if the cover unit 45 is opened to the maximum, the cover unit 45 will not hinder the visual confirmation of the remaining amount visual confirmation parts 23A, 23B, 23C, and 23D.

[0108] If the cover unit 45 is opened, Figure 5 As shown, the opening and closing levers 21A, 21B, 21C, and 21D are exposed. Figure 5 The state in which the opening and closing levers 21B, 21C, and 21D are closed and the opening and closing lever 21A is open is shown. It should be noted that, hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the opening and closing levers 21A, 21B, 21C, and 21D, they are collectively referred to as the opening and closing levers 21.

[0109] For example, a sealing cover 20A is provided on the opening and closing rod 21A. Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, the ink tank 18A is provided with an ink supply port 19A, and the ink supply port 19A is exposed by opening the opening and closing rod 21A. The sealing cap 20A is formed of an elastic material and blocks the ink supply port 19A when the opening and closing rod 21A is closed.

[0110] The user opens the opening and closing lever 21A and places a not-shown ink replenishment bottle in the ink supply port 19A, thereby replenishing the ink tank 18A with ink through the ink supply port 19A.

[0111] It should be noted that the other ink tanks 18B, 18C, and 18D are also similar. Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , the ink supply ports 19B, 19C, and 19D are provided respectively. Also, the opening and closing levers 21B, 21C, and 21D are similarly provided with sealing caps 20B, 20C, and 20D respectively.

[0112] Next, a portion of the outer surface of the cap unit 45 emits light. The light emission of the cap unit 45 is controlled by a control unit (not shown) according to the remaining ink amount. For example, when the remaining ink amount is sufficient, the cap unit 45 does not emit light, and when the remaining ink amount is about to run out (near end), that is, close to zero, or when the ink is exhausted (ink end), that is, zero, the cap unit 45 emits light. Lighting includes lighting and flashing, and can be either lighting or flashing, or a combination of lighting and flashing. The control unit (not shown) controls the ink ejection head 17 (see Fig.14 , Fig.16) The amount of ink ejected is accumulated to grasp the remaining amount of ink in the ink tank 18, and a portion of the cover unit 45 is illuminated as needed.

[0113] <Embodiment of Light Emitting Part of Cover Unit>

[0114] The internal structure of the cover unit 45 will be described in detail later. Figure 3A to Figure 3H The embodiment of the light emitting portion of the cover unit 45 is described. Figure 3A to Figure 3H In the figure, the luminous parts are indicated by hatching.

[0115] Figure 3A The light emitting portion 50A of the cover unit 45A shown is provided at the upper end of the cover unit 45A. As will be described in detail below, the upper end of the cover unit 45A is recessed inside the outer peripheral portion so that the outer peripheral portion protrudes upward. Moreover, in the upper end of the cover unit 45A, the outer peripheral portion protruding upward constitutes the light emitting portion 50A that emits light. That is, the light emitting portion 50A emits light in a ring shape.

[0116] It should be noted that the light emitting unit includes the light emitting unit 50A involved in this embodiment and the light emitting units 50A to 50H described below, and when there is no need to distinguish them, they are collectively referred to as the light emitting unit 50. In this embodiment, the light emitting unit refers to a portion that emits light.

[0117] According to the present embodiment, since the light emitting portion 50A is provided at the upper end portion of the cover unit 45A, the visibility of the light emitting portion 50A is improved.

[0118] In addition, in this embodiment, since the light emitting unit 50A is provided along the outer circumference of the cover unit 45A at the upper end of the cover unit 45A and emits light in a ring shape, the length of the area where the light emitting unit 50A emits light can be ensured, and the visual confirmation of the light emitting unit 50A is improved.

[0119] In addition, the region inside the light emitting section 50A of the cover unit 45A is recessed, so that the light emitting section 50A becomes more noticeable and the visibility of the light emitting section 50A is improved.

[0120] In addition, when opening and closing the cover unit 45A, the upper portion of the cover unit 45A can be used as a finger hook, and the operability of the cover unit 45A is improved.

[0121] Next, the light emitting unit 50 may also be set to Figure 3B The composition shown.

[0122] Figure 3B The cover unit 45B shown in the figure includes a light emitting section 50B. The light emitting section 50B is different from the light emitting section 50A described above in that it has a configuration that emits light in a half circumference instead of in the entire circumference.

[0123] It should be noted that Figure 3B The light emitting portion 50B causes the side located in the -Y direction and the side located in the +X direction at the upper end portion of the cover unit 45B to emit light, but may also cause the side located in the +Y direction and the side located in the -X direction to emit light.

[0124] Alternatively, at the upper end of the cover unit 45B, the other two of the four sides, namely, the side in the -Y direction, the side in the +Y direction, the side in the -X direction, and the side in the +X direction, may be illuminated. Alternatively, any one of the four sides may be illuminated, or any three of the four sides may be illuminated.

[0125] The light emitting unit 50 may also be configured as Figure 3C The composition shown.

[0126] Figure 3C The cover unit 45C shown in the figure has a light emitting portion 50C. In the present embodiment, the upper end portion of the cover unit 45C is formed in a flat shape, and has a structure in which the entire surface of the upper end portion emits light.

[0127] However, in the configuration where the inner side of the outer periphery is recessed and the outer periphery protrudes upward in the upper end portion of the cover unit 45C as in the other cover units 45 described above, the outer periphery and the inner side of the outer periphery may be illuminated.

[0128] The light emitting unit 50 may also be configured as Figure 3D The composition shown.

[0129] Figure 3D The cover unit 45D shown in the figure has a light emitting portion 50D. In the present embodiment, the light emitting portion 50D is provided inside the inner recess of the outer peripheral portion at the upper portion of the cover unit 45D, and a portion of the inner portion of the outer peripheral portion emits light. However, the upper portion of the cover unit 45D may be formed flat like the cover unit 45C, and the light emitting portion 50D may be provided on a portion thereof.

[0130] It should be noted that the light emitting portion 50D has a square shape when viewed from above, but is not limited to this and may also be other graphics. In addition, it is not limited to graphics and may also be text.

[0131] As described above, since the light emitting units 50A, 50B, 50C, and 50D are provided on the upper portion of the cover unit 45 , the visibility of the light emitting unit 50 is improved.

[0132] In addition, the light emitting unit 50 may also be configured as Figure 3E The composition shown.

[0133] Figure 3EThe cover unit 45E shown in the figure includes a light emitting unit 50E. In the present embodiment, the light emitting unit 50E is configured to emit light along the side in the +Y direction and the side in the -X direction at the lower end of the cover unit 45E.

[0134] However, the light-emitting portion 50E can emit light on the other two of the three sides located in the +Y direction, the side located in the -X direction, and the side located in the +X direction and closer to the +Y direction than the operation panel 15 at the lower end of the cover unit 45E, or can also emit light on any one side.

[0135] In addition, the light emitting unit 50 may also be configured as Figure 3F The composition shown.

[0136] Figure 3F The cover unit 45F shown in the figure includes a light emitting section 50F. In the present embodiment, the light emitting section 50F is a structure provided at a part of the side in the +Y direction at the lower end portion of the cover unit 45F.

[0137] However, the light emitting section 50F may be provided at a part of the side in the −X direction at the lower end portion of the cover unit 45F.

[0138] As described above, the light emitting units 50E and 50F are provided at the lower end of the side surface located above the remaining amount visual confirmation unit 23 in the cover units 45E and 45F, respectively. Thus, the remaining amount visual confirmation unit 23 and the light emitting unit 50 can be visually confirmed at a close distance, and the user can easily visually confirm information related to the remaining amount of ink.

[0139] In addition, the light emitting unit 50 may also be configured as Figure 3G The composition shown.

[0140] Figure 3G The cover unit 45G shown in the figure includes a light emitting unit 50G. In the present embodiment, the light emitting unit 50G has a shape extending in the Z-axis direction. The light emitting unit 50G is provided at an end in the -X direction on the side surface in the +Y direction of the cover unit 45G.

[0141] However, the light emitting section 50G may be provided at the end in the +X direction on the side surface in the +Y direction of the cover unit 45G, or may be provided at the center in the X-axis direction.

[0142] In addition, the light emitting unit 50 may also be configured as Figure 3H The composition shown.

[0143] Figure 3H The cover unit 45H shown in the figure includes a light emitting section 50H. In the present embodiment, the light emitting section 50H is provided on a part of the side surface in the +Y direction of the cover unit 45G.

[0144] It should be noted that the light emitting portion 50H has a square shape when viewed from above, but is not limited to this and may also be other graphics. In addition, it is not limited to graphics and may also be text.

[0145] As described above, the light emitting units 50G and 50H are provided on the side surfaces of the cover units 45G and 45H above the remaining amount visual confirmation unit 23. Thus, the remaining amount visual confirmation unit 23 and the light emitting unit 50 can be visually confirmed on the same surface, and the user can easily visually confirm information related to the remaining amount of ink.

[0146] As described above, the light emitting unit 50 involved in each of the above embodiments is provided in the cover unit 45, and the cover unit 45 can be switched between a closed state covering the ink supply port 19 for supplying ink and an open state exposing the ink supply port 19. In addition, as will be described in detail below, the light source 60 is also provided in the cover unit 45. In this way, by providing the light emitting unit 50 and the light source 60 in the cover unit 45, when maintenance work such as replacement of the light source 60 is required, it is sufficient to remove the cover unit 45, or maintenance work can be performed without removing the cover unit 45. As a result, it is not necessary to disassemble the housing of the device on a large scale, and maintenance work becomes easy.

[0147] In the present embodiment, the light emitting unit 50 emits light according to the remaining amount of ink contained in the ink containing unit 10, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and may emit light according to other states of the apparatus body 2, such as various errors, maintenance, printing, document reading, etc. In addition, the lighted light may be used to guide the operation.

[0148] The following (1) to (12) are specific examples thereof. Only one or any number of the following (1) to (12) may be used.

[0149] (1) A sensor for detecting the presence of a medium is provided on the discharge tray 13 . After the recorded medium is discharged to the discharge tray 13 , if the discharged medium is not removed by the user even after a predetermined time has passed, the light emitting unit 50 emits light as a notification to that effect.

[0150] It should be noted that the light emitting unit 50 may be caused to emit light in order to notify that the medium is discharged to the discharge tray 13 .

[0151] (2) A sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a document is provided on the discharge tray (not shown) of the document feeding device 9 provided in the printer 1B. After the document that has been read is discharged to the discharge tray, if the discharged document is not taken out by the user even after a predetermined time has passed, the light emitting unit 50 emits light as a notification to that effect.

[0152] (3) When a document is placed on the document table 6 , if the document is still placed even after a predetermined time has passed, the light emitting unit 50 is caused to emit light as a notification to that effect.

[0153] (4) When the medium in the medium storage box (not shown) runs out or when there is no medium on the medium feed tray (not shown), the light emitting unit 50 emits light as a notification based on information from the sensor detecting these.

[0154] (5) A sensor for detecting the presence of a document is provided on the feed tray (not shown) of the document feeder 9 of the printer 1B. When there is no subsequent document on the feed tray, the light emitting unit 50 emits light to notify the fact.

[0155] (6) A sensor for detecting that the medium has reached the loadable amount limit is provided in the discharge tray 13 , and when the medium has reached the loadable amount limit, the light emitting unit 50 emits light as a notification to that effect.

[0156] (7) A sensor for detecting that the document has reached the loadable limit is provided on the discharge tray (not shown) of the document feeding device 9 of the printer 1B. When the loadable limit is reached, the light emitting unit 50 emits light to notify the fact.

[0157] (8) When wireless communication is possible between the control unit (not shown) included in the printer 1A or 1B and the external information terminal, the light emitting unit 50 emits light as a notification that wireless communication is in progress.

[0158] (9) When the printer 1A or 1B is battery-driven, the light emitting unit 50 emits light as a notification that the printer 1A or 1B is charging.

[0159] (10) The light emitting unit 50 is made to emit light as a notification that a replacement time of a consumable is approaching or has arrived. Examples of consumables include feed rollers and the like.

[0160] (11) A sensor is provided to detect the open / closed state of the opened / closed portion, and when the opened / closed portion is kept open for a predetermined time, the light emitting unit 50 emits light as a notification of the fact. Examples of the opened / closed portion include the document cover 8, the document feeder 9, the cover unit 45, the opening / closing lever 21, and the like.

[0161] (12) When the ink ejection head 17 is being maintained or the ink is being initially filled, the light emitting unit 50 is caused to emit light as a notification to that effect.

[0162] It should be noted that, in the present embodiment, the light emitting section 50 emits light according to the remaining amount of ink contained in the ink containing section 10. In other words, the cover unit 45 is configured to emit light according to the remaining amount of ink contained in the ink containing section 10, that is, the portion that the user should first operate when the ink is exhausted emits light, so that the user can visually grasp the portion that the user should operate next, and usability can be improved.

[0163] The cover unit 45 is opened and closed by rotating with the upper end being the free end during rotation. The cover unit 45 is opened from the closed state by moving the upper portion forward and is closed from the opened state by moving the upper portion backward.

[0164] Thus, when the cover unit 45 is opened or closed, no space is required above or beside the device, and the space required for installing the device can be saved.

[0165] In addition, since the inner area of ​​the outer peripheral portion of the upper end of the cover units 45A, 45B, 45D, 45E, 45F, 45G, and 45H is recessed, the user can hook the upper end of each cover unit with a finger to open and close the cover unit 45, thereby improving the operability of the cover unit 45. In addition, in the cover unit 45A, the light emitting portion 50A is a portion where the user's finger is hooked, thereby making it easier to recognize the portion that the user should operate.

[0166] It should be noted that it can also be controlled to make Figure 3A The light emitting portion of the light emitting unit 50A shown in FIG. 1 is visually moved along the outer periphery of the cover unit 45A. The details will be described below. In this embodiment, the light emitting unit 50A includes four light sources 60 (see FIG. 1 ). Fig. 20 ), by sequentially lighting and extinguishing the four light sources 60 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, the light emitting portion of the light emitting unit 50A can be visually made to move along the outer periphery of the cover unit 45A. Thus, the visual confirmation of the light emitting unit 50 is further improved.

[0167] It should be noted that the visual movement of the light-emitting portion of the light-emitting unit 50A does not mean that the light-emitting unit 50A physically moves as described above, but that the light-emitting portion in the light-emitting unit 50A changes over time, resulting in the light-emitting portion appearing to move.

[0168] It should be noted that, for example, Figure 3F The light emitting unit 50F or Figure 3G In the light emitting unit 50G shown, the light emitting portion can also be made to move visually in a straight line. That is, when a plurality of light sources are arranged in a straight line, if the light sources are turned on and off sequentially from one end to the other end, the light emitting portion can be visually made to move in a straight line.

[0169] <Positional Relationship between Ink Container and Scanner Unit>

[0170] Next, the positional relationship between the ink containing portion 10 and the scanner unit 3 will be described. It should be noted that the rear cover unit 45 will be described by taking the cover unit 45A in the above-mentioned embodiments as an example.

[0171] When the ink container 10 is replenished with ink, it is preferable from the viewpoint of workability that the top of the ink container 10 is widely opened. If the scanner unit 3 is assumed to cover the top of the ink container 10, the scanner unit 3 needs to be opened. In order to open the scanner unit 3, a large space is required above the device.

[0172] In order to solve such a problem, it is also conceivable to provide the ink containing section 10 so as to protrude greatly toward the front or side of the device. However, in this case, the entire device becomes larger.

[0173] Therefore, in the printer 1A according to the present embodiment, if Figure 4 As shown, the scanner unit 3 has a cutout 3a at a corner on the front side of the device. Then, the cover unit 45 as a part of the ink container 10 enters the cutout 3a, and the upper side of the ink container 10 is opened.

[0174] According to such a configuration, the ink container 10 can be accessed from above without opening the scanner unit 3, and the ink can be easily replenished in the ink container 10. In addition, since a part of the ink container 10 is arranged to enter the cutout portion 3a, the ink container 10 does not protrude greatly forward from the front surface of the device, and the size of the device can be suppressed.

[0175] In this embodiment, the printer 1 has the cutout 3a and the ink container 10 at the corner in the -X direction on the front side of the device, but may also have the cutout 3a and the ink container 10 at the corner in the +X direction on the front side of the device.

[0176] In addition, when the device is viewed from above, the shape of the cutout portion 3a follows the outer shape of the cover unit 45 (see FIG. Fig.14 ). Thus, no useless space is formed between the cover unit 45 and the scanner unit 3, and it is possible to suppress an increase in the size of the device.

[0177] It should be noted that the cutout portion along the outer shape of the cover unit 45 is formed in the document cover 8 as shown by reference numeral 8a in addition to the unit body 3c. Thus, the ink container 10 can be accessed from above without opening the document cover 8, and the ink container 10 can be easily replenished. It should be noted that when the device is viewed from above, that is, when viewed from the +Z direction, the contours of the cutout portion 3a formed in the unit body 3c and the cutout portion 8a formed in the document cover 8 are substantially the same (see FIG. 1 ). Fig.14 ).

[0178] It should be noted that if Figure 2 As shown, in the printer 1B having the document feeder 9, the scanner unit 3 has the cutout 3a, and the cover unit 45 as a part of the ink container 10 enters the cutout 3a. In addition, the document feeder 9 also has the cutout 9a. Thus, the top of the ink container 10 is opened.

[0179] It should be noted that when the device is viewed from above, that is, when viewed from the +Z direction, the cutout 3a formed in the unit body 3c and the cutout 9a formed in the document feeding device 9 have substantially the same contour. However, in the document feeding device 9, the cutout 9a is formed to be slightly larger toward the +Z direction.

[0180] Next, if Fig.10 As shown, the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state in the vertical direction is aligned with the height position of the placement surface 6a in the document table 6. The upper end of the cover unit 45 refers to the part of the cover unit 45 located at the most +Z direction in the Z-axis direction. Fig.10 In FIG. 1 , reference symbol Z1 indicates the height position of the upper end portion of the cover unit 45 and the height position of the placing surface 6 a of the document table 6 . Thereby, the following effects can be obtained.

[0181] When the size of the original is larger than the size of the original table 6, the original protrudes from the original table 6 when the original is placed on the original table 6. In this case, if the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state is too high relative to the height position of the original table 6, the cover unit 45 becomes an obstacle. On the contrary, if the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state is too low relative to the height position of the original table 6, the original droops significantly, and there is a possibility that the original is easily inclined relative to the original table 6, or a fold mark is formed on the original.

[0182] However, as described above, since the height position of the upper end portion of the cover unit 45 in the closed state is aligned with the height position of the placement surface 6 a of the document table 6 , the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suppressed.

[0183] It should be noted that the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state is aligned with the height position of the loading surface 6a in the document table 6, which means that it is not limited to the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state being the same as the height position of the loading surface 6a in the document table 6, and also includes the case where there is a slight error within the range that does not cause the above-mentioned undesirable situation. As an example, it is preferred that the difference between the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state and the height position of the loading surface 6a in the document table 6 is less than 8 mm, more preferably the difference is less than 4 mm, and further preferably the difference is 0 to 2 mm.

[0184] When the operation panel 15 is in the first state, that is, when the panel surface 15a is along the vertical plane, the operation panel 15 is located in the region Wb of the cover unit 45 in the Y-axis direction, that is, in the depth direction of the device (see Fig.14 ). Moreover, if Fig.11 As shown, the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state is aligned with the height position of the upper end of the operation panel 15 in the first state. The upper end of the operation panel 15 refers to the part of the operation panel 15 located at the +Z direction in the Z-axis direction. Fig.11 In FIG. 1 , reference symbol Z1 indicates the height position of the upper end portion of the cover unit 45 and the height position of the upper end portion of the operation panel 15 .

[0185] Thus, the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state and the height position of the upper end of the operation panel 15 in the first state are aligned with the height position of the placement surface 6 a of the document table 6 .

[0186] Thus, when the document protrudes from the document table 6 , the operation panel 15 does not become an obstacle, and the document protruding from the document table 6 can be appropriately supported by the cover unit 45 and the operation panel 15 .

[0187] It should be noted that the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state is aligned with the height position of the upper end of the operation panel 15 in the first state, which means that it is not limited to the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state being the same as the height position of the upper end of the operation panel 15 in the first state, and also includes the case where there is a slight error within the range that does not cause the above-mentioned undesirable situation. As an example, it is preferred that the difference between the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state and the height position of the upper end of the operation panel 15 in the first state is less than 8 mm, more preferably the difference is less than 4 mm, and further preferably the difference is 0 to 2 mm.

[0188] It should be noted that even when the operation panel 15 is in the second state in which the panel surface 15a is tilted downward, the height position of the upper end of the cover unit 45 in the closed state is aligned with the height position of the upper end of the operation panel 15 (see Fig.12 , Fig.13 ). Thus, the above-mentioned effects can be obtained regardless of the state of the operation panel 15. Fig.13 In FIG. 1 , reference symbol Z1 indicates the height position of the upper end portion of the cover unit 45 , the height position of the placement surface 6 a of the document table 6 , and the height position of the upper end portion of the operation panel 15 in the second state.

[0189] Next, if Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the scanner unit 3 includes a frame member 7 that forms the periphery of the document table 6. Figure 6 , Fig.10 As shown, the frame member 7 is provided with a first step portion 3b which is spaced apart from the cover unit 45 in the plane direction, that is, the XY plane direction. This makes it easier for the user to recognize the presence of the cover unit 45, and usability is improved.

[0190] Furthermore, by providing the above-mentioned gap, when a large original protruding from the frame member 7 is placed and read, it is possible to suppress damage to the original caused by being sandwiched between the original cover 8 and the cover unit 45 .

[0191] As described above, when the operation panel 15 is in the first state, that is, when the panel surface 15a is along the vertical plane, the operation panel 15 is located in the region Wb of the cover unit 45 in the Y-axis direction, that is, in the depth direction of the device (see Fig.14 ). Moreover, if Figure 5 , Fig.11 As shown, the operation panel 15 is provided with a second step portion 15b which is spaced apart from the cover unit 45 in the plane direction, that is, the XY plane direction. This makes it easier for the user to recognize the presence of the cover unit 45, and usability is improved.

[0192] Next, other features of the ink containing section 10 will be described below.

[0193] In the present embodiment, the color of the outer surface of the ink container 10 is different from the color of the outer surface of the portion other than the ink container 10 in the device body 2. As an example, the lightness of the color of the outer surface of the ink container 10 is higher than the color of the outer surface of the portion other than the ink container 10 in the device body 2. More specifically, the color of the outer surface of the portion other than the ink container 10 in the device body 2 is set to black, and the color of the outer surface of the cover member 46 constituting the cover unit 45 and the color of the outer surface of the outer packaging member 47 are set to gray. By configuring in this way, the user can more easily recognize the presence of the cover unit 45, and the usability is improved.

[0194] It should be noted that the lightness of the color of the outer surface of the ink containing section 10 may be lower than the lightness of the color of the outer surface of a portion other than the ink containing section 10 in the apparatus main body 2 .

[0195] Alternatively, the ink containing portion 10 may have an appearance pattern as shown below.

[0196] Specifically, the appearance pattern of the cover member 46 and the outer packaging member 47 is formed so that a second color different from the first color in at least one of hue, lightness, and chroma is dispersed in a first color as a base. The cover member 46 and the outer packaging member 47 are shells that form the outer surface of the ink container 10.

[0197] The first color and the second color may also differ in one of hue, lightness, and chroma. In addition, the first color and the second color may differ in hue and lightness among hue, lightness, and chroma, or may differ in hue and chroma, or may differ in lightness and hue. In addition, the first color and the second color may differ in all of hue, lightness, and chroma. Of course, the second color may be either monochromatic or polychromatic.

[0198] Therefore, the above-mentioned appearance pattern can be various patterns such as stone pattern, sand pattern, wood pattern, marble pattern, flow pattern, etc.

[0199] As an example, such an appearance pattern can be formed by resin molding. For example, resin molding is performed using recycled plastic, that is, recycled materials derived from plastic waste, as a base material. Since plastic waste contains impurities, the impurities are sometimes dispersed in the molten material and remain. In this case, the color of the material other than the impurities becomes the above-mentioned first color, and the color of the impurities becomes the above-mentioned second color.

[0200] In addition, since the plastic waste contains a plurality of plastic materials having different melting temperatures, when resin molding is performed at a predetermined molding temperature, the unmelted material is dispersed in the molten material and remains. In this case, the color of the molten material becomes the first color, and the color of the unmelted material becomes the second color.

[0201] In addition, the above-mentioned appearance pattern can also be formed by using a material obtained by mixing a shavings material into a resin material as a base material and performing resin molding as a molding material. The shavings material is a material that does not melt at the molding temperature, and as an example, wood can be cited. The resin material as the base material can be a recycled material derived from plastic waste, or a resin material other than it. In this case, the color of the part molded by the resin material as the base material becomes the above-mentioned first color, and the color of the shavings material becomes the above-mentioned second color.

[0202] Fig.30 is an example of the above-mentioned appearance pattern, reference numeral Cn1 represents the above-mentioned first color, and reference numeral Cn2 represents the above-mentioned second color. Fig.30 In the example, for convenience, the first color is set to white and the second color is set to black, but this is just an example.

[0203] It should be noted that the granular material of the second color Cn2 can be a granular material having a diameter or a side of 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0204] It should be noted that the above-mentioned appearance pattern can be applied not only to the ink container 10 but also to the entire inkjet printer 1A, 1B, or partially to the front cover 14, the operation panel 15, the document cover 8, etc.

[0205] In addition, since the cover unit 45A involved in this embodiment is as shown in FIG. Figure 3A As described above, the upper end portion is configured to emit light, so that the user can more easily recognize the presence of the cover unit 45A, thereby improving usability.

[0206] Then, if Figure 5~Figure 7 , Fig. 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 8C As shown in FIG. 1 , a wall portion 46a is formed inside the cover member 46 constituting the cover unit 45. The wall portion 46a forms a surface along the XZ plane when the cover unit 45 is in the closed state. The effects of the wall portion 46a will be described below.

[0207] first, Fig. 8A FIG. 4 shows a state where the cover unit 45 is opened to the maximum and the opening and closing lever 21 is opened. If the cover unit 45 is closed from this state, Figure 8B As shown in FIG. 4 , the wall portion 46a contacts the opening and closing rod 21 to rotate the opening and closing rod 21 in the closing direction. Figure 8C As shown, when the cover unit 45 is closed, the wall portion 46a is in a state of completely closing the opening and closing rod 21. In this way, when the cover unit 45 is closed, the opening and closing rod 21 is also closed, so even if the user forgets to close the opening and closing rod 21, the opening and closing rod 21 can be closed, and the evaporation of water in the ink tank 18 can be suppressed.

[0208] In addition, if Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Fig.11 As shown, a plate portion 46d is provided inside the cover member 46. The plate portion 46d forms a surface parallel to the XY plane when the cover unit 45 is closed. A substrate 51 (see FIG. 5 ) to be described below is provided on the upper portion of the plate portion 46d when the cover unit 45 is closed. Fig.17 ).

[0209] Moreover, if Figure 7 As shown, the plate portion 46d is formed with a cutout portion 46b and holes 46c-1, 46c-2. The cutout portion 46b is used to allow the substrate 51 (see Fig.17 ) through which a cable (not shown) extending therefrom passes. In addition, the holes 46c-1 and 46c-2 are provided for the retaining member 56 (see Fig.17 ) where the two bosses 56f are engaged.

[0210] When the cover unit 45 is opened, the user may accidentally touch a cable (not shown) extending from the cutout portion 46 b or the boss 56 f , and static electricity may be transferred to the substrate 51 , thereby adversely affecting the substrate 51 .

[0211] However, since the wall portion 46a is provided inside the cover member 46, Figure 5 As shown, when the cover unit 45 is opened, the cable (not shown) extending from the cutout portion 46b and the boss 56f are hidden by the wall portion 46a. This can prevent the user from accidentally touching the cable (not shown) extending from the cutout portion 46b or the boss 56f.

[0212] <Positional Relationship between the Light Emitting Unit and the Components of the Printer>

[0213] Next, the positional relationship between the light emitting unit 50A and the components of the printer 1 will be described by taking the light emitting unit 50A constituting the cover unit 45A as an example.

[0214] like Fig.14 As shown, when the operation panel 15 is in the first state, the operation panel 15 is located in the region Wb of the light emitting portion 50A in the Y-axis direction, that is, in the device depth direction.

[0215] In addition, if Fig.14 As shown, in the X-axis direction, that is, the device width direction, the ink supply port 19 is located in the region Wa of the light emitting portion 50A.

[0216] In addition, by Figure 1 Obviously, the length of the document cover 8 in the X-axis direction, that is, the device width direction, is longer than the length of the light emitting portion 50A.

[0217] In addition, by Figure 1 Obviously, the remaining amount visual confirmation unit 23 is located within the region of the light emitting unit 50A in the X-axis direction, that is, the device width direction. Thus, the remaining amount visual confirmation unit 23 and the light emitting unit 50A can be visually confirmed at a close distance, and the user can easily visually confirm information related to the remaining amount of ink.

[0218] In addition, if Fig.14As shown, in the X-axis direction, that is, the device width direction, when the reading sensor 5 constituting the scanner unit 3 is located at the initial position, the reading sensor 5 is located in the area Wa of the light emitting portion 50A.

[0219] In addition, in the X-axis direction, that is, in the device width direction, the carriage 16 located at the initial position is located in the region Wa of the light emitting section 50A.

[0220] In addition, if Fig.16 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the vertical direction, the upper surface of the carriage 16 is located at a position lower than the light emitting portion 50A. Fig.16 In FIG. 1 , reference symbol Z1 indicates a range occupied by the light emitting portion 50A in the Z-axis direction, and reference symbol Z2 indicates a position of the upper surface of the carriage 16 in the Z-axis direction.

[0221] In addition, if Fig.15 As shown, the device body 2 includes: a maintenance unit 41 for maintaining the ink ejection head 17; and a waste liquid storage portion 42 for storing the ink ejected from the ink ejection head 17 to the maintenance unit 41 as waste liquid. It should be noted that the maintenance unit 41 includes: a cap portion (not shown) for capping the ink ejection head 17; and a pump (not shown) for generating negative pressure on the cap portion. The ink ejected to the cap portion is pumped to the waste liquid storage portion 42.

[0222] Furthermore, in the X-axis direction, that is, the device width direction, the carriage 16 , the maintenance unit 41 , and the waste liquid storage section 42 located at the initial position are located within the region Wa of the light emitting section 50A.

[0223] <Detailed Structure of Light Emitting Unit>

[0224] Next, the light emitting unit 50A constituting the cover unit 45A is taken as an example to describe the detailed configuration of the light emitting unit 50A. It should be noted that the cover unit 45A can also be referred to as a light emitting device that emits light.

[0225] like Fig.17 As shown, the cover unit 45A includes a cover member 46 , a substrate 51 , a color filter 57 , a light guide member 53 , a reflection sheet 54 , a light shielding sheet 55 , and a holder 56 .

[0226] like Fig.11 As shown, a reference is provided on the cover member 46. Figure 7 The plate portion 46d described above has a substrate 51 disposed on the upper portion of the plate portion 46d. A light guide member 53 is disposed on the upper portion of the substrate 51. Fig.11 The figure is omitted, but a Fig.17 The reflecting sheet 54 shown in the figure has a light shielding sheet 55 disposed on the upper portion of the reflecting sheet 54 , and a retaining member 56 disposed on the upper portion of the light shielding sheet 55 .

[0227] The light emitting unit 50A is constituted by a part of the light guiding member 53 .

[0228] A cylindrical screw fitting portion 56g is formed in the center of the retainer 56. Fig.17 In the figure, the screw fitting portion 56g passes through the hole 51a formed in the central portion of the substrate 51, the fourth hole h4 formed in the light guiding component 53, the hole 54a formed in the central portion of the reflecting sheet 54, and the hole 55a formed in the central portion of the light shielding sheet 55.

[0229] In addition, the plate portion 46d of the cover member 46 has a base portion 46e (see Figure 6 , Fig.11 ) is formed along the outer shape of the substrate 51, such as Figure 6 , Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 4 , a recess 46f is formed inside the base portion 46e. The screw fitting portion 56g of the retainer 56 is fitted into the recess 46f. Figure 7 As shown, the screw 58 is also fitted into the screw fitting portion 56g. Thus, the substrate 51, the light guide member 53, the reflection sheet 54, and the light shielding sheet 55 are sandwiched between the plate portion 46d and the holder 56.

[0230] It should be noted that two bosses 56f are formed on the retaining member 56 so as to sandwich the screw fitting portion 56g. Fig.17 In the embodiment, a boss 56f passes through the hole 55b formed in the light shielding sheet 55, the hole 54b formed in the reflection sheet 54, and the hole 53d1 formed in the light guide member 53 (see Figure 18~Figure 20 ), and the hole 51b formed in the substrate 51, and fits into the hole 46c-1 formed in the plate portion 46d of the cover member 46 (see Figure 7 ).

[0231] The other boss 56f passes through the hole 55c formed in the light shielding sheet 55, the hole 54c formed in the reflection sheet 54, and the hole 53d2 formed in the light guide member 53 (see Figure 18~Figure 20 ), and the hole 51c formed in the substrate 51, and is fitted into the hole 46c-1 formed in the plate portion 46d of the cover member 46 (see Figure 7 ).

[0232] The relative positions of the cover member 46, the holder 56, the light shielding sheet 55, the reflection sheet 54, the light guide member 53 and the substrate 51 on the XY plane are determined by the above-mentioned boss 56f.

[0233] It should be noted that the hole 55c formed in the light shielding sheet 55 is different from the hole 55b and is formed as a long hole extending in the X-axis direction. Similarly, the hole 54c formed in the reflective sheet 54 is different from the hole 54b and is formed as a long hole extending in the X-axis direction. Similarly, the hole 51c formed in the substrate 51 is different from the hole 51b and is formed as a long hole extending in the X-axis direction. Similarly, the hole 53d2 formed in the light guide component 53 is different from the hole 53d1 and is formed as a long hole extending in the X-axis direction. Similarly, the hole 46c-2 (see Figure 7 ) and hole 46c-1 (refer to Figure 7 ) is different from the conventional structure and is formed as a long hole extending in the X-axis direction.

[0234] As described above, even if there is a slight error in the position of the hole formed in each member, the two bosses 56f can be fitted into the two holes formed in each member.

[0235] Next, if Fig.18 , Fig.19 As shown, the light guide member 53 integrally includes a flat plate portion 53a and an outer wall portion 53b that rises in a direction intersecting the surface of the plate portion 53a, specifically, in the +Z direction. The outer wall portion 53b is provided along the periphery of the plate portion 53a.

[0236] A plurality of holes are provided on the plate portion 53a, such as Fig. 20 As shown, a light source 60 provided on the substrate 51 is arranged inside the first hole h1 as one of the holes.

[0237] exist Fig. 20 In the figure, reference numerals E1, E2, E3, and E4 represent the periphery of the light guide member 53 when the plate portion 53a is viewed from above. The peripheries E1 and E3 are the peripheries extending in the X-axis direction, and the peripheries E2 and E4 are the peripheries extending in the Y-axis direction. The intersection of the two peripheries is formed in an R shape. The lengths of the peripheries E1 and E3 are longer than the lengths of the peripheries E2 and E4.

[0238] It should be noted that, when there is no need to distinguish the peripheries E1, E2, E3, and E4, they are collectively referred to as the periphery E. It should be noted that, when collectively referred to as the periphery E, it means that in addition to the peripheries E1, E2, E3, and E4, it also includes the portion where the peripheries intersect, that is, the portion formed into an R shape.

[0239] In the present embodiment, four light sources 60 are arranged, and each light source 60 is arranged to emit light in a direction toward the outside and in opposite directions. Specifically, the light source 60A emits light in a direction including a -X direction component and a -Y direction component at the center of the light emitting direction. The light source 60B emits light in a direction including a +X direction component and a -Y direction component at the center of the light emitting direction. The light source 60C emits light in a direction including a +X direction component and a +Y direction component at the center of the light emitting direction. The light source 60D emits light in a direction including a -X direction component and a +Y direction component at the center of the light emitting direction.

[0240] It should be noted that, when there is no need to distinguish the light sources 60A, 60B, 60C, and 60D, they are collectively referred to as the light source 60 .

[0241] The light emitted from the light source 60 enters the light guide member 53 from the inner side surface, that is, the inner surface, of the first hole h1, and is emitted from the outer wall portion 53b toward the peripheral edge E of the light guide member 53. That is, the outer wall portion 53b constitutes the light emitting portion 50A. It should be noted that the inner side surface of the first hole h1 is sometimes referred to as the side surface of the first hole h1 or the inner surface of the first hole h1.

[0242] Since the light emitted from the light source 60 travels inside the light guide member 53, the light guide member 53 is formed of a material having light transmittance, and is formed of a light transmittance resin material as an example. As the light transmittance resin material, as an example, resin materials such as acrylic, styrene, polyethylene, and polycarbonate can be used. Of course, the light guide member 53 can also use glass instead of the light transmittance resin material.

[0243] In addition, it is also preferable that the light guide member 53 contains a light diffusion material. This can make it possible to blur the reflection of light inside the light guide member 53 and make it appear as if the light is emitted uniformly.

[0244] The light diffusing material may be any material that is added to a light-transmitting material and has a light diffusing function. For example, inorganic particles such as aluminum oxide, silicon oxide, titanium oxide, and calcium carbonate, and organic particles such as silicone resin and acrylic resin can be used.

[0245] In addition, a light diffusing resin may be used instead of containing a light diffusing material. As an example, a light diffusing resin such as DELPET (registered trademark of Asahi Kasei Corporation) can be used.

[0246] It should be noted that, instead of or in addition to making the light guide member 53 contain a light diffusing material, the surface of the light guide member 53 may be textured. This can blur the reflection of light inside the light guide member 53 and make it look like uniform light emission.

[0247] In addition, a light diffusion surface may be configured on the inner surface of the first hole h1. In this way, the bright spot is not easily conspicuous, and it is easy to visually confirm that it is a uniform light emitting state. The light diffusion surface in this case can be realized by texturing the inner surface of the first hole h1, or configuring a film with light diffusion between the light source 60 and the inner surface of the first hole h1. In addition, the color filter 57 described below may also have such light diffusion.

[0248] In order to ensure uniform light emission, the scattering angle is preferably 15 to 30 degrees, more preferably 20 degrees.

[0249] As the light source 60, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) can be used. LEDs have various colors, and a white LED is used in this embodiment. Fig.21 As shown, a color filter 57 is arranged between the inner surface of the first hole h1 and the light source 60, and the emission color is adjusted by the color filter 57. The emission color can be easily adjusted by the color filter 57. As an example, the color filter 57 can be blue. It is preferred that the color filter 57 is arranged to completely cover the inner side of the first hole h1.

[0250] It should be noted that in this embodiment, since the color filter 57 is flexible and is arranged in a curved state, it can be attached to the inner surface of the first hole h1 by a force that wants to restore it to its original straight state. However, it can also be fixed to the entire or a part of the color filter 57 using double-sided tape or adhesive.

[0251] Next, the second hole h2 and the third hole h3 formed in the plate portion 53a are described. The second hole h2 and the third hole h3 are holes for suppressing uneven brightness of the light emitting portion 50A, that is, the light emitting portion 50A that emits light in a ring shape, and making it look like uniform light emission. In particular, among the portion close to the light source 60 and the portion far away, the brightness of the portion close to the light source 60 is relatively easy to become higher than that of the portion far away, but this is suppressed by each hole described later.

[0252] It should be noted that the holes described below are holes that penetrate the plate portion 53a in the thickness direction, that is, the Z-axis direction, but may also be recessed portions that do not penetrate the +Z direction surface or -Z direction surface of the plate portion 53a.

[0253] like Figure 18~Figure 20 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the present embodiment, four first holes h1 are formed in the plate portion 53 a. As described above, the light source 60 is disposed in the first hole h1.

[0254] In a plan view of the plate portion 53 a , a plurality of second holes h2 are provided between the first hole h1 and the peripheral edge E at intervals along the peripheral edge E. As shown in FIG.

[0255] In addition, when the plate portion 53a is viewed from above, third holes h3a, h3b, and h3c are formed between the first hole h1 and the second hole h2. It should be noted that when the third holes h3a, h3b, and h3c are not distinguished, they are collectively referred to as third holes h3.

[0256] In addition, a fourth hole h4 is formed in the center of the plate portion 53a. In this embodiment, the first hole h1 communicates with the fourth hole h4 for heat dissipation of the light source 60. However, when heat dissipation of the light source 60 is not required, the first hole h1 does not need to communicate with the fourth hole h4.

[0257] Hereinafter, the function and effect of each hole will be described.

[0258] First, the effect of the second hole h2 will be described.

[0259] Since the light source 60 emits light toward the side of the first hole h1, the light emitted from the light source 60 enters from the side of the first hole h1 and is directed toward the periphery E of the light guide member 53 when the plate portion 53a is viewed from above. The light directed toward the periphery E of the light guide member 53 is emitted from the outer surface of the light guide member 53, so that it can be visually confirmed that the outer surface of the light guide member 53 emits light. It should be noted that the periphery E of the light guide member 53 can be the outer surface that emits light, or the light can be reflected at the periphery E, and as a result, other parts different from the periphery E become the outer surface that emits light. In this specification, the periphery E is an edge that forms the outer shape of the light guide member 53 when the plate portion 53a is viewed from above.

[0260] This will be described again later, but in this embodiment, the light emitting surface is Fig. 27 The top light emitting surface K1, the inner light emitting surface K2 and the outer light emitting surface K3 are shown. The top light emitting surface K1, the inner light emitting surface K2 and the outer light emitting surface K3 are surfaces forming the outer wall portion 53b. In this embodiment, the outer light emitting surface K3 corresponds to the periphery E.

[0261] It should be noted that, hereinafter, when referred to as an outer surface, it refers to the outer surface of the light guiding member 53. The top light emitting surface K1, the inner light emitting surface K2, and the outer light emitting surface K3 are examples of the outer surface of the light guiding member 53.

[0262] Here, in order to emit light from the outer surface of the light guide member 53, the light needs to be directed toward the outer surface of the light guide member 53 at an angle that does not cause total reflection. Therefore, at a specified portion of the outer surface of the light guide member 53, if the amount of light that is totally reflected is greater than the amount of light that is not totally reflected, the brightness at the specified portion decreases. Conversely, at a specified portion of the outer surface of the light guide member 53, if the amount of light that is not totally reflected is greater than the amount of light that is totally reflected, the brightness at the specified portion increases. For such reasons, uneven brightness may occur on the outer surface of the light guide member 53 as a whole.

[0263] However, according to the present embodiment, light incident from the side surface of the first hole h1 is reflected at the side surfaces of the plurality of second holes h2 , so that light incident from the first hole h1 is directed toward more directions. Fig. 22 The arrows show an example of light reflected by the side surface of the second hole h2.

[0264] Thus, the ratio of the amount of light totally reflected to the amount of light not totally reflected is made uniform on the outer surface of the light guide member 53. As a result, uneven brightness when the light guide member 53 emits light can be suppressed, and a good light emission state can be obtained.

[0265] Next, the effect of the third hole h3 will be described.

[0266] exist Fig.23 In the diagram, a line connecting the light source 60 and the first portion Pc0 of the periphery E when looking down at the observation plate portion 53a is set as a first straight line Lc0, a line connecting the light source 60 and the second portion Pc1 of the periphery E and a straight line shorter than the first straight line Lc0 is set as a second straight line Lc1, and the third hole h3a is set at a position intersecting with the second straight line Lc1.

[0267] Furthermore, a straight line connecting the light source 60 and the second portion Pc2 of the periphery E and shorter than the first straight line Lc0 is defined as a second straight line Lc2, and the third hole h3b is provided at a position intersecting the second straight line Lc2.

[0268] Furthermore, a straight line connecting the light source 60 and the second portion Pc3 of the periphery E and shorter than the first straight line Lc0 is defined as a second straight line Lc3, and the third hole h3c is provided at a position intersecting the second straight line Lc3.

[0269] It should be noted that the first straight line Lc0 forms the shortest distance between the light source 60 and the first part Pc0. In addition, the second straight line Lc1 forms the shortest distance between the light source 60 and the second part Pc1. In addition, the second straight line Lc2 forms the shortest distance between the light source 60 and the second part Pc2. In addition, the second straight line Lc3 forms the shortest distance between the light source 60 and the second part Pc3. Therefore, each straight line can also be called a line segment.

[0270] It should be noted that in Fig.23 In the figure, the first part Pc0, the second part Pc1, Pc2, and Pc3 are convenient parts used to explain the configuration of the third hole h3, and the parts are not limited to Fig.23 Position shown.

[0271] The outer surface of the light guide member 53 that is closer to the light source 60 tends to have a relatively higher brightness than the outer surface that is farther from the light source 60 , which causes uneven brightness.

[0272] However, in this embodiment, since each third hole h3 is arranged at a position intersecting with the second straight line Lc1, Lc2, and Lc3 which is shorter than the first straight line Lc0, the brightness of the outer surface close to the light source 60 can be suppressed from becoming higher by reflecting light at the side of the third hole h3, thereby suppressing uneven brightness.

[0273] For example, the third hole h3a can prevent the brightness of the second part Pc1 from being higher than the brightness of the first part Pc0. In addition, the third hole h3b can prevent the brightness of the second part Pc2 from being higher than the brightness of the first part Pc0. In addition, the third hole h3c can prevent the brightness of the second part Pc3 from being higher than the brightness of the first part Pc0.

[0274] In addition, Fig.24 As shown by the arrow, it can be expected that the light reflected on the side surface of the third hole h3 returns to the first hole h1 and is reflected on the side surface of the first hole h1 toward the outer surface far away.

[0275] The above are the common effects of the third holes h3a, h3b, and h3c. The third holes h3a, h3b, and h3c will be described below separately.

[0276] like Fig.25 As shown, the third hole h3a is elliptical in shape so as to increase the interval between the third hole h3a and the first hole h1 and the interval between the third hole h2 and the second hole h3a.

[0277] More specifically, the third hole h3 a has an elliptical shape having a major axis Lj1 and a minor axis Lj2 , and the minor axis Lj2 is arranged along a straight line Lj0 connecting the first hole h1 and the second hole h2 .

[0278] It should be noted that the minor axis Lj2 being configured along the straight line Lj0 does not mean that the minor axis Lj2 is strictly parallel to the straight line Lj0. It only needs to be configured in an elliptical shape so that the interval between the first hole h1 and the third hole h3a, and the interval between the second hole h2 and the third hole h3a can be ensured compared to a perfect circle with the same radius as the major axis Lj1.

[0279] It should be noted that in Fig.25 The second hole h2 used in the embodiment is an example, and other second holes h2 may also be used. Fig.25 The second hole h2 used in the embodiment may be the second hole h2 closest to the first hole h1, or other second holes h2 may be used.

[0280] It should be noted that the straight line Lj0 forms the shortest distance between the first hole h1 and the second hole h2. Therefore, the straight line Lj0 can also be called a line segment Lj0.

[0281] The third hole h3a is preferably as large as possible because it is a hole for suppressing the brightness of the outer surface close to the light source 60. However, if the interval between the first hole h1 and the third hole h3a, or the interval between the second hole h2 and the third hole h3a, is narrowed, the fluidity of the resin in the mold is reduced when the light guide member 53 is resin-molded, which is likely to cause poor molding.

[0282] However, according to the present embodiment, since the third hole h3a is elliptical in shape, the interval with the first hole h1 and the interval with the second hole h2 are enlarged, so that the light from the light source 60 toward the outer surface close to the light source 60 can be reflected in a large range, and the interval between the first hole h1 and the third hole h3a, and the interval between the second hole h2 and the third hole h3a are suppressed from narrowing, thereby suppressing the above-mentioned poor molding.

[0283] Next, refer to Fig.26 The third hole h3b will be described.

[0284] The third hole h3 b has a shape obtained by cutting out a part of a circle so as to have a chord M1 and an arc M2 , and is arranged so that the chord M1 faces the first hole h1 .

[0285] The third hole h3b is preferably as large as possible because it is a hole for suppressing the brightness of the outer surface close to the light source 60. However, if the interval between the first hole h1 and the third hole h3b, or the interval between the second hole h2 and the third hole h3b, is narrowed, the fluidity of the resin in the mold is reduced when the light guide member 53 is resin-molded, which is likely to cause molding defects.

[0286] However, since the third hole h3b has a shape obtained by cutting off a portion of a circle with a chord M1 and an arc M2, and is arranged so that the chord M1 is opposite to the first hole h1, it is possible to reflect light from the light source 60 toward the outer surface close to the light source 60 over a wide range, and the interval between the first hole h1 and the third hole h3b, and the interval between the second hole h2 and the third hole h3b are suppressed from narrowing, thereby suppressing the above-mentioned poor molding.

[0287] It should be noted that, when the third hole h3b is formed by cutting off a part of a circle so as to have a chord M1 and an arc M2, a part of a perfect circle may be cut off, or a part of an ellipse may be cut off.

[0288] Next, the third hole h3c will be described.

[0289] The third hole h3c has a perfect circular shape having a larger diameter than the second hole h2. Thus, the following effects can be obtained.

[0290] Since the third hole h3c is a hole for suppressing the brightness of the outer surface close to the light source 60, it is preferable to have a certain size. Since the third hole h3c is a perfect circle with a larger diameter than the second hole h2, it is possible to ensure the reflection of light on the side of the third hole h3c, and the brightness of the outer surface close to the light source 60 can be appropriately suppressed.

[0291] In addition, when light enters the third hole h3c from the side surface, the light diffuses inside the third hole h3c, thereby obtaining a bright spot mitigation effect. Therefore, by changing the arrangement of the third hole h3c, the brightness distribution can be adjusted.

[0292] It should be noted that the third hole h3c is not limited to a perfect circle, but may be an ellipse. The ellipse in this case is preferably configured to ensure a gap between the first hole h1 and the third hole h3c, and a gap between the second hole h2 and the third hole h3c.

[0293] Furthermore, the third hole h3c is a hole whose area is larger than that of the second hole h2 when viewed from above, and may also be a shape other than a perfect circle or an ellipse, for example, it may be a part of an ellipse, or it may be a shape having chords and arcs like the above-mentioned third hole h3b, or it may be other closed curve shapes.

[0294] It should be noted that, in the present embodiment, the second hole h2 is in a perfect circular shape, and preferably has a diameter in the range of 1.0 to 3.0 mm, thereby appropriately suppressing brightness unevenness and ensuring the fluidity of the resin during resin molding.

[0295] In addition, it is preferable that the interval between adjacent second holes h2 is ensured to be 1.5 to 2.0 mm. This can appropriately suppress brightness unevenness and ensure the fluidity of the resin during resin molding.

[0296] In addition, it is preferable that the intervals between the first hole h1, the second hole h2, and the third hole h3 be 1.5 mm or more, for example, 1.5 to 2.0 mm. This can appropriately suppress brightness unevenness and ensure the fluidity of the resin during resin molding.

[0297] In the present embodiment, the third hole h3c is in a perfect circular shape, and preferably has a diameter in the range of 3.0 mm to 6.0 mm. Thus, it is possible to appropriately ensure reflection of light on the side surface of the third hole h3c.

[0298] Next, the fourth hole h4 formed in the plate portion 53a will be described.

[0299] The light guide member 53 includes a fourth hole h4 which is provided at the center of the plate portion 53 a and has a larger opening than the first hole h1 , the second hole h2 , and the third hole h3 .

[0300] Therefore, if Fig.26 As shown by the solid arrow or the dotted arrow, it can be expected that the light reflected from the side of the third hole h3 or the second hole h2 and returned toward the center direction of the plate portion 53a is reflected from the side of the fourth hole h4 and directed toward the outer surface far from the light source 60, that is, the outer surface where the brightness is likely to decrease.

[0301] Next, other features of the cover unit 45 according to the present embodiment, that is, the light emitting device, will be described.

[0302] The light guide member 53 has an outer wall portion 53 b which is a portion forming the periphery E and rises in a direction intersecting the surface of the plate portion 53 a , specifically, in the +Z direction.

[0303] Furthermore, by emitting the light emitted by the light source 60 from the outer wall portion 53 b , the light emission can be visually recognized not only from the side direction but also from the upper direction, thereby improving visibility.

[0304] In addition, if Fig.19 , Fig. 27 As shown, a groove portion 53c is formed on the outer side of the outer wall portion 53b to reflect the light directed toward the outside of the plate portion 53a and guide the light to the top of the outer wall portion 53b. Fig. 27 The solid arrows and the dotted arrows in show that the light toward the outside of the plate portion 53a is reflected by the groove portion 53c and toward the top of the outer wall portion 53b. Thus, the brightness of the outer wall portion 53b can be ensured.

[0305] In addition, if Fig.11 As shown, the cover unit 45 has a structure in which a holder 56 as an example of a light shielding member is provided inside the outer wall portion 53b and on the upper portion of the plate portion 53a, so that the outer wall portion 53b emits light in a ring shape.

[0306] Thus, compared with a configuration in which the entire light guide member 53 serves as a light emitting portion, uneven brightness is less noticeable.

[0307] In the present embodiment, the surface of the substrate 51 on which the light source 60 is provided is formed as a reflective surface for reflecting light. This can suppress the loss of light emitted from the light source 60 and allow the light to be appropriately emitted from the light guide member 53.

[0308] It should be noted that, as an example, the reflective surface can be formed of a mirror surface or a white surface.

[0309] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, Fig.17 , Fig. 20 As shown, the area of ​​the substrate 51 is smaller than the area of ​​the plate portion 53a of the light guide member 53. Therefore, it is also preferable to extend the reflection surface of the substrate 51 in the planar direction and provide a reflection sheet or the like so as to cover the lower surface of the plate portion 53a.

[0310] In addition, in the present embodiment, the cover unit 45 includes a cover 53a on the side opposite to the substrate 51 with respect to the plate portion 53a of the light guide member 53 as shown in FIG. Fig.17 As described above, the reflection sheet 54 reflects light. As an example, the reflection sheet 54 is formed to a size that covers the upper surface of the plate portion 53a. Thereby, the loss of light emitted from the light source 60 can be suppressed and the light can be appropriately emitted from the light guide member 53.

[0311] In addition, since the light shielding sheet 55 is provided between the reflection sheet 54 and the holder 56, it is possible to suppress light from being transmitted through the holder 56. In addition, as an example, the light shielding sheet 55 is formed to have the same size as the reflection sheet 54.

[0312] Next, refer to Fig.28 , Fig.29 , the light guide component 53A involved in other embodiments is described. Fig.28 , Fig.29 The same components as those already described are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are avoided below.

[0313] The light guide member 53A has a third hole indicated by reference numeral h3d instead of the third holes h3a, h3b, and h3c described above.

[0314] The third hole h3d has a perfect circular shape having a smaller diameter than the second hole h2, and is arranged on the inner side of the second hole h2.

[0315] Fig.29 It is magnified Fig.28 , the dotted line is a straight line connecting the middle position of two adjacent second holes h2 and the light source 60. It should be noted that the middle position of two adjacent second holes h2 refers to the middle position of the line segment connecting the center position of one second hole h2 and the center position of the other second hole h2 of the two adjacent second holes h2. Moreover, the third hole h3d is set at a position intersecting with the above-mentioned dotted line.

[0316] Thus, it is possible to exclude light that directly travels from the light source 60 toward the periphery E of the light guide member 53A, thereby suppressing a local increase in brightness.

[0317] It should be noted that the third hole h3d is preferably arranged so that the center position of the third hole h3d is located on the above-mentioned virtual line, but it is sufficient as long as the third hole h3d intersects the above-mentioned virtual line.

[0318] In addition, the third hole h3d may have the same diameter as the second hole h2, or may have a larger diameter than the second hole h2.

[0319] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment or modified examples, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention described in the claims, and these modifications are naturally included in the scope of the present invention.

[0320] For example, the upper surface or the side surface of the cover unit 45 may be made transparent or semi-transparent so that the ink supply port 19 inside can be seen.

[0321] In addition, in the structure in which the corners of the document table 6 closest to the cover unit 45 are used as the reference position when placing the document, and a mark indicating that the corner is the reference position is provided on the frame member 7, the light-emitting portion 50 is illuminated, so that the mark can be easily visually confirmed even in a dark environment, and the document can be easily placed. It should be noted that in this case, it is also preferable to provide an opening and closing sensor for detecting the opening of the document cover 8 or the document feeding device 9, and to illuminate the light-emitting portion 50 when the document cover 8 or the document feeding device 9 is opened, and to extinguish the light-emitting portion 50 when the document cover 8 or the document feeding device 9 is closed. In addition, it is also preferable to only light source 60 closest to the above-mentioned reference position among the multiple light sources 60, specifically, Fig.10 The light source 60A is turned on.

Claims

1. A liquid ejection device, characterized in that: have: The device body includes a liquid ejection head for ejecting liquid toward a medium; and a liquid containing portion for containing the liquid ejected from the liquid ejecting head; The liquid containing portion comprises: a liquid supply port; and The openable and closable cover can be switched between a closed state covering the supply port and an open state exposing the supply port. A light emitting unit that emits light emitted by a light source according to a state of the device body is provided on the opening and closing cover.

2. The liquid ejection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light emitting portion emits light according to a remaining amount of the liquid contained in the liquid containing portion.

3. The liquid ejection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light emitting portion is disposed at an upper end portion of the opening and closing cover.

4. The liquid ejection device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The light emitting portion is provided in a ring shape along the outer circumference of the opening and closing cover at the upper end portion of the opening and closing cover.

5. The liquid ejection device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The opening and closing cover has a recessed area inside the light emitting portion.

6. The liquid ejection device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The opening and closing cover is opened and closed by rotating with the upper end portion as a free end during rotation. Furthermore, the opening and closing cover is opened from a closed state by the upper end portion moving forward, and is closed from an opened state by the upper end portion moving backward.

7. The liquid ejection device according to claim 4, characterized in that: A light emitting portion of the light emitting unit visually moves along the outer circumference of the opening and closing cover.

8. The liquid ejection device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The liquid storage portion has a remaining amount visual confirmation portion for visually confirming the remaining amount of the liquid on a side surface of the liquid storage portion. The light emitting portion is provided at a lower end portion of a side surface of the opening and closing cover that is located above the remaining amount visual confirmation portion.

9. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that: The opening and closing cover includes a light guide member, which is a member constituting an upper end portion of the opening and closing cover and is a member on which light emitted by the light source is incident, and emits the incident light to the outside.

10. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The liquid ejection device includes a reading unit, which is an openable and closable unit in the upper portion of the device body and reads an image of a document. The reading unit has a cutout portion at a corner on the front side of the device. A portion of the liquid storage portion enters the cutout portion, and an upper portion of the liquid storage portion is open.

11. The liquid ejection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outer pattern of the shell forming the outer surface of the liquid storage unit is formed by dispersing a second color different from the first color in at least one of hue, lightness, and chroma in a first base color.

Images