Ink replenishment container

Abstract

The invention provides a technology capable of suppressing leakage of ink in an ink supply container. The ink replenishment container includes: a container main body; an ink outlet forming part; a cap; a first valve disposed inside the ink outlet forming portion and controlling a communication state of the internal flow path; and a second valve disposed in at least one of the interior of the ink outlet forming portion including the outlet and the interior of the cap, the second valve being located between the ink storage chamber and the outlet sealing portion. The second valve is a differential pressure valve which opens when the pressure difference between the pressure in the space closer to the ink storage chamber than the second valve and the pressure in the space closer to the outlet sealing part than the second valve is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an ink refill container. Background Technology

[0002] As an example of an ink jetting device, printers that print on a printing medium by ejecting ink from a printhead toward a printing medium such as printing paper have been known. Among such printers, there are ink refill type printers that replenish ink to an ink tank. Patent Document 1 discloses an ink refill container for replenishing ink to an ink refill type ink tank.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-51714

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses an ink supply container with a valve using a spring member disposed inside the ink outlet. In the closed state, the spring member applies force to the valve core towards the sealing member, causing the valve core to contact the sealing member. This blocks the through-hole of the sealing member, cutting off the fluid flow path between the container body and the ink outlet. When the ink supply container is assembled with a printer, the printer's ink inlet member presses the valve core away from the sealing member. This separates the valve core from the sealing member, opening the valve and supplying ink from the ink supply container to the printer via the ink inlet member. Furthermore, in Patent Document 1, the ink supply container includes a cap with a protrusion. Threads for mutual engagement are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the cap and the outer circumferential surface of the ink outlet forming portion of the ink supply container. When the cap is closed at the ink outlet forming portion, completing the assembly of the cap to the ink outlet forming portion, the protrusion presses the valve core away from the sealing member, thus maintaining the valve in the open state. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In conventional technologies, when the ink supply container is in a position different from an upright position, such as a horizontal ink outlet or an ink outlet with a downward orientation, opening the cap may cause ink from the main body of the container to leak into the cap through the open valve. This leakage can lead to problems such as ink contamination of the user's hands or ink dripping onto surrounding surfaces.

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an ink refill container is provided to refill ink to the printer via an ink inlet member disposed on the printer and having a flow path. The ink supply container comprises: a container body having an ink receiving chamber; an ink outlet forming portion having an externally facing outlet and connected to the container body, the ink outlet forming portion having an internal flow path that allows the outlet to fluidly communicate with the ink receiving chamber; a cap having an outlet sealing portion that seals the outlet by engaging with the ink outlet forming portion; a first valve disposed inside the ink outlet forming portion for controlling the communication state of the internal flow path, the first valve being closed by an elastic member applying force in a first direction from the ink receiving chamber side toward the outlet, and being opened by an ink inlet member inserted from the outlet in a second direction opposite to the first direction, overcoming the applied force; and a second valve disposed in at least one of the interior of the ink outlet forming portion including the outlet and the interior of the cap, and located between the ink receiving chamber and the outlet sealing portion, the second valve being a differential pressure valve that opens when the pressure difference between the pressure in the space of the second valve on the ink receiving chamber side and the pressure in the space of the second valve on the outlet sealing portion side is greater than a predetermined value. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the printer in the first embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the state of replenishing ink to the ink tank using an ink replenishment container.

[0009] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the ink supply container in the embodiment.

[0010] Figure 4 This is the first three-dimensional view of the first valve.

[0011] Figure 5 This is the second perspective view of the first valve.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the ink supply container from the outlet side.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the ink container according to the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the process of replenishing ink from an ink supply container to an ink tank.

[0015] Figure 9 This is a diagram used to further illustrate the ink refill container.

[0016] Figure 10This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the ink replenishment container at the first moment of the release process.

[0017] Figure 11 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the ink replenishment container during the second phase of the release process.

[0018] Figure 12 This is a first partial cross-sectional view of the ink supply container in the deactivated state.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a second partial cross-sectional view of the ink supply container in the deactivated state.

[0020] Figure 14 This is a diagram used to illustrate the opening and closing action of the second valve.

[0021] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the ink supply container of the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the ink supply container of the third embodiment.

[0023] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating the ink supply container of the fourth embodiment.

[0024] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating the ink supply container of the fifth embodiment.

[0025] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0026] 100. Printer; 110. Frame; 160. Ink tank receiving unit; 162. Cover; 164. Sealing cap component; 165. Sealing cap; 200, 200a~200d. Ink supply container; 300. Container body; 312. External thread; 313. Claw; 320. Ink receiving chamber; 400, 400b. Ink outlet forming part; 410. Internal flow path; 413. Tooth; 454. External thread part; 455. Front end part; 457 460. Base end; 470. Outlet; 499. Protrusion; 500, 500a~500b. First valve; 510, 510a. Sealing component; 510h. Through hole; 511. Sealing part body; 513. Connecting hole; 516. First sealing part; 517. Valve frame; 517A. Anti-detachment part; 517B. Engaging part; 520, 520b. First valve core; 524, 524b. Valve core base end; 524. Inner wall; 526, 526b, Valve core front end; 530, Elastic member; 600, 600b, Cap; 601, Top wall; 602, 602b, Central protrusion; 603, Side wall; 603fi, Inner circumferential surface; 630, Protrusion; 654, Internal thread portion; 660, Outlet sealing portion; 662, Bottom wall; 664, Recess; 666, First peripheral wall; 667, Second peripheral wall; 700, 700L, 700S, Ink reservoir; 710, Ink inlet. Components; 711, Flow path; 714, Partition wall; 721, Inner flow path; 750, Inlet forming part; 760, Ink receiving chamber on the side of the can; 800, 800a~800d, Second valve; 802, 802b, Valve shaft part; 804, 804b, 804c, Second valve core; C, Central shaft; D1, First direction; D2, Second direction; Da, Inner direction; Ho, Through hole; SC, Closed valve state; SO, Open valve state; OC, Opening and closing action. Detailed Implementation

[0027] A. First implementation method:

[0028] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the printer 100 in the first embodiment. The printer 100 is an inkjet printer that performs printing by ejecting ink onto a printing medium. Figure 1 The diagram depicts mutually orthogonal XYZ axes. The X-axis corresponds to the width direction of the printer 100, the Y-axis corresponds to the front-back direction of the printer 100, and the Z-axis corresponds to the height direction of the printer 100. The printer 100 is set on a horizontal mounting surface defined by the X and Y directions. Furthermore, "X direction" refers to a combination of the concepts of +X and -X directions. Similarly, "Y direction" refers to a combination of the concepts of +Y and -Y directions, and "Z direction" is the vertical direction, combining the concepts of the +Z direction (vertical upward) and the -Z direction (vertical downward).

[0029] The printer 100 has a frame 110. Inside the frame 110 is a bracket (not shown) that can move in the main scanning direction, which is the X-direction. A print head that ejects ink onto the printing medium is mounted on the bracket. An ink tank receiving unit 160 that houses multiple ink tanks 700S and 700L is located at one end of the front surface of the frame 110. The ink tank receiving unit 160 has an openable and closable cover 162 on its upper part. Furthermore, the ink tanks 700S are small-capacity tanks, and the ink tanks 700L are large-capacity tanks. However, in the following description, both are referred to simply as "ink tank 700". Each ink tank 700 is connected to the print head of the bracket via a tube (not shown). That is, the ink tank 700 is a fixed type of ink tank that is not mounted on the bracket of the printer 100. Additionally, each ink tank 700 is an ink replenishment type ink tank that is replenished from an ink replenishment container when the ink level decreases. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ink tank 700 is a fixed ink tank, but it can also be an ink tank that can be mounted on the bracket of the printer 100.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the state of ink being replenished to ink tanks 700 using ink replenishment container 200. The front surface of each ink tank 700 is formed of a transparent member, allowing the remaining ink level in each ink tank 700 to be visually observed from the outside. When the remaining ink level decreases, as... Figure 2 As shown, by opening the cover 162, ink can be replenished from the ink inlet member 710, which has a flow path communicating with the ink tank 700. The ink inlet member 710 is a cylindrical member extending in the Z direction, which is the vertical direction, and is configured as a component of the printer 100.

[0031] Each ink reservoir 700 has a cylindrical ink inlet member 710 on its upper surface for replenishing ink to the ink reservoir 700. The ink reservoir housing unit 160 includes a sealing cap member 164 with a sealing cap 165 for sealing the front end of the ink inlet member 710. When not replenishing ink to the ink reservoir 700, the front end of the ink inlet member 710 is sealed by the sealing cap 165 of the sealing cap member 164. When replenishing ink to the ink reservoir 700, the sealing cap member 164 is removed from the ink inlet member 710, and the front end of the ink replenishment container 200 is inserted into the ink inlet member 710 to replenish ink. Two inlet forming portions 750 are provided around the ink inlet member 710, which engage with the protrusion of the ink replenishment container 200 (described later). The two inlet forming portions 750 have a shape that is 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical about the ink inlet member 710.

[0032] In this specification, the term "ink replenishment" refers to the action of supplying ink to the ink reservoir 700 to increase the ink reserve. However, it is not mandatory to fill the ink reservoir 700 with ink through "ink replenishment." Furthermore, "ink replenishment" also includes the action of filling the empty ink reservoir 700 with ink during the initial use of the printer 100. As described above, the ink replenishment container 200 replenishes ink to the ink reservoir 700 via an ink inlet member 710 having a flow path communicating with the ink reservoir 700.

[0033] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the ink supply container 200 in the embodiment. Figure 4 This is the first three-dimensional view of the first valve 500. Figure 5 This is the second perspective view of the first valve 500. Figure 6 This is a view of the ink supply container 200 from the 460 side of the outlet. Figure 6 The ink refill container 200 is in the state where the cap 600 has been removed. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the ink supply container 200 includes a container body 300, an ink outlet forming part 400, a first valve 500, a cap 600, and a second valve 800.

[0034] The container body 300 is a bottomed cylindrical component. The container body 300 has an ink receiving chamber 320 for receiving ink. The ink outlet forming section 400 is connected to the container body 300.

[0035] The ink outlet forming section 400 has a front end portion 455. The front end portion 455 is a cylindrical member. The front end portion 455 has a central axis C and an ink outlet 460 located on the side opposite to the container body 300 and facing outwards. The front end portion 455 defines the opening of the outlet 460 at its front end on the first direction D1 side, which will be described later. The outlet 460 is configured to be circular so that the ink inlet member 710 can be inserted. As described above, the outlet 460 is formed in the front end portion 455 of the ink outlet forming section 400. The front end portion 455 is a cylindrical member. The ink outlet forming section 400, which includes the outlet 460, has the same central axis C as the ink supply container 200. In addition, the ink outlet forming section 400 has an internal flow path 410 that allows the outlet 460 to fluidly communicate with the ink receiving chamber 320. The internal flow path 410 is formed by dividing the ink outlet forming section 400 by arranging a first valve 500 within the ink outlet forming section 400.

[0036] The ink outlet forming portion 400 has protrusions 470 located on both sides of a front end portion 455 containing an outlet 460, and a base end portion 457 located on the second direction D2 side, described laterally than the protrusions 470. The protrusions 470 protrude radially outward from the sidewall of the front end portion 455, and further protrude axially upward from the base end portion 457 side. The protrusions 470 have... Figure 2The identification shape of the inlet forming portion 750 is shown. The identification shape of the protrusion 470 is a rib and groove shape extending axially on the side of the protrusion 470, and is formed with 180-degree rotational symmetry about the outlet 460. Ribs and grooves that fit or engage with the identification shape of the protrusion 470 are provided in the inlet forming portion 750. The identification shape of the protrusion 470 and the pattern shape of the ribs and grooves of the inlet forming portion 750 vary depending on the type of ink contained in the ink tank 700 and the ink supply container 200. Therefore, when it is necessary to supply ink to the ink tank 700 from the ink supply container 200 which contains ink of different colors, it is possible to prevent the protrusion 470 from interfering with the inlet forming portion 750 and causing the ink guide member 710 to be inserted into the outlet 460.

[0037] The base end portion 457 is a cylindrical member with an outer diameter larger than that of the front end portion 455. An external thread portion 454 that engages with the cap 600 is formed on the outer surface, i.e., the outer peripheral surface, of the base end portion 457. In addition, an internal thread portion 412 that engages with the external thread 312 of the container body portion 300 is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the base end portion 457.

[0038] The ink outlet forming portion 400, including the front end 455, is formed of a synthetic resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene, and is more rigid than the first valve core 520 and the second valve 800 described later in the text about the first valve 500. That is, the ink outlet forming portion 400 is more rigid than the first valve core 520 and the second valve 800.

[0039] The cap 600 side, i.e., the upper end side, of the ink supply container 200 is referred to as the "front end side," and the container body 300 side, i.e., the lower end side, is referred to as the "rear end side." The container body 300 is a hollow cylindrical container with an opening on the front end side. An external thread 312 for assembling the ink outlet forming part 400 is provided in the small-diameter portion at the front end of the container body 300. Furthermore, in this disclosure, the direction along the central axis C of the ink supply container 200, i.e., the direction parallel to the central axis C, is referred to as the "axial direction," and the direction orthogonal to the axial direction is referred to as the "radial direction." The direction in the axial direction from the ink receiving chamber 320 toward the outlet 460 is also referred to as the first direction D1. In addition, the direction opposite to the first direction D1 is referred to as the second direction D2.

[0040] The first valve 500 is disposed inside the ink outlet forming section 400. The first valve 500 controls the connectivity of the internal flow path 410 by opening and closing. For example, by inserting the ink inlet member 710 from the outlet 460, the first valve 500 is in the open state, thereby connecting the internal flow path 410. Conversely, for example, by pulling the ink inlet member 710 out of the outlet 460, the first valve 500 is in the closed state, thereby disconnecting the internal flow path 410.

[0041] The first valve 500 includes a sealing member 510, a first valve core 520, an elastic member 530, and a valve frame 517. The sealing member 510 is disposed within the front end portion 455 of the ink outlet forming portion 400, which has an outlet 460. The sealing member 510 is annular. A through hole 510h is formed in the center of the sealing member 510, extending axially. This through hole 510h forms part of the internal flow path 410. The sealing member 510 is formed, for example, of a rubber member such as an elastomer with rubber elasticity. Furthermore, elements of the ink supply container 200 other than the elastic member 530, the sealing member 510, the first valve core 520, and the second valve 800 can be formed from synthetic resins such as polyethylene and polypropylene. Figure 4 As shown, the sealing member 510 is supported by the valve frame 517 inside the valve frame 517. That is, the sealing member 510 is assembled inside the valve frame 517.

[0042] like Figure 3 As shown, the first valve core 520 is located on the second direction D2 side relative to the sealing member 510. The first valve core 520 is configured to be axially movable within the valve frame 517. The first valve core 520 is axially opposed to the through hole 510h. The first valve core 520 is forced by the elastic member 530 in the direction toward the sealing member 510, i.e., the first direction D1. That is, the elastic member 530 holds the first valve 500 in a closed state where the first valve core 520 contacts the sealing member 510 in such a way that it blocks the through hole 510h of the sealing member 510. In detail, the sealing member 510 has an annular protrusion at its end in the second direction D2, and the state in which the annular protrusion contacts the radially extending end face of the first valve core 520 on the first direction D1 side is the closed state of the first valve 500. The elastic member 530 is a helical spring. The elastic member 530 is, for example, formed of metal. The elastic member 530 exerts a force on the first valve core 520 in a first direction D1 toward the sealing member 510.

[0043] like Figure 4 As shown, the valve frame 517 allows the ink inlet member 710 to be inserted and removed. The valve frame 517 extends axially along the central axis C. The valve frame 517 is fitted into the ink outlet forming portion 400 with a radial gap between it and the ink outlet forming portion 400. The valve frame 517 houses the elastic member 530, the first valve core 520, and the sealing member 510. The valve frame 517 has an anti-detachment portion 517A for preventing the sealing member 510 from dislodging from the valve frame 517 and an engagement portion 517B for engaging with the ink outlet forming portion 400 on its front end side. Therefore, the first valve 500 can be installed and removed as a single element of the ink supply container 200, thus simplifying manufacturing.

[0044] like Figure 5As shown, the valve frame 517 has a total of four through holes Ho extending radially. The through holes Ho communicate with the radial gap between the valve frame 517 and the first valve core 520. The through holes Ho are also formed to extend axially. The through holes Ho form part of the internal flow path 410. When the first valve 500 is open, the flow path (described later) formed inside the ink inlet member 710 communicates with the through holes Ho, thereby enabling gas-liquid exchange between the ink inlet member 710 and the ink supply container 200. Thus, ink is supplied from the ink supply container 200 to the ink tank 700.

[0045] As described above, the first valve 500 is a valve that opens and closes between the sealing member 510 and the first valve core 520, which is subjected to force by the elastic member 530. In detail, the first valve 500 is closed by the elastic member 530 exerting force in a first direction D1, and is opened by the ink-introducing member 710, which is inserted from the outlet 460 into a second direction D2, overcoming the force exerted by the elastic member 530.

[0046] like Figure 3 As shown, the cap 600 has a top wall 601 axially opposed to the outlet 460 and a cylindrical side wall 603 having a central axis C. The top wall 601 is located at the top when the ink supply container 200 is in an upright position. The side wall 603 is connected to the outer periphery of the top wall 601. The cap 600 is configured to be detachable relative to the ink outlet forming portion 400. The cap 600 also has a central protrusion 602 that protrudes downward from the center of the top wall 601 when the top wall 601 is positioned above the side wall 603. In addition, the cap 600 has an internally threaded portion 654 disposed on the inner peripheral surface 603fi of the side wall 603. The internally threaded portion 654 is composed of multiple stages of internal threads. Details regarding the central protrusion 602 will be described later.

[0047] The second valve 800 is disposed in at least one of the interior of the ink outlet forming section 400, including the outlet 460, and the interior of the cap 600. In this embodiment, the second valve 800 is disposed inside the cap 600. Specifically, the second valve 800 is mounted on the central protrusion 602 of the cap 600. The second valve 800 is located between the ink receiving chamber 320 and the outlet sealing section of the cap 600, which will be described later. The second valve 800 is formed, for example, from a rubber component such as an elastomer with rubber elasticity. Details regarding the second valve 800 will be described later.

[0048] The ink supply container 200 also has teeth 413 and claws 313 constituting a ratchet mechanism. The teeth 413 are formed circumferentially at the end of the inner circumferential surface of the base end portion 457 on the second direction side. The claws 313 are formed on the outer circumferential surface of the container body portion 300 at a position closer to the second direction D2 side than the portion where the external thread 312 is formed. After the internal thread 412 of the ink outlet forming portion 400 engages with the external thread 312 of the container body portion 300, the teeth 413 of the ink outlet forming portion 400 engage with the claws 313 of the container body portion 300 and are thus fixed. Therefore, when the cap 600 is rotated in the direction of opening the cap 600, the rotation of the ink outlet forming portion 400 together with the cap 600 can be restricted.

[0049] Before providing a more detailed description of the ink refill container 200, the structure of the ink tank 700 will be explained. Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the ink reservoir 700 according to the embodiment. The ink inlet member 710 of the ink reservoir 700 protrudes upward from the ink reservoir 700.

[0050] The ink inlet component 710 has two flow paths 711 and 712. The two flow paths 711 and 712 are separated by a partition wall 714. During ink replenishment, one of the flow paths 711 and 712 constitutes a flow path for ink from the ink replenishment container 200, and the other constitutes a flow path for air from the ink tank 700 towards the ink replenishment container 200. Furthermore, the number of flow paths 711 and 712 in the ink inlet component 710 is not limited to two; if there are multiple paths, there can be three or more.

[0051] The ink inlet component 710 has a flat front end, and two flow paths 711 and 712 open at the front end of the ink inlet component 710. Additionally, a portion of the front end of the ink inlet component 710 corresponds to the end of the partition wall 714. The two flow paths 711 and 712 communicate with two in-can flow paths 721 and 722 protruding downwards into the can-side ink receiving chamber 760. The lower ends of these in-can flow paths 721 and 722 extend to a position lower than the top wall of the can-side ink receiving chamber 760. This is because when ink is replenished from the ink supply container 200 to the ink tank 700, the gas-liquid exchange stops at the point when the liquid level in the can-side ink receiving chamber 760 reaches the lower ends of the in-can flow paths 721 and 722, and consequently, ink replenishment also stops, thus facilitating the ink replenishment operation.

[0052] Figure 8This diagram illustrates the process of supplying ink from the ink supply container 200 to the ink tank 700. The ink supply posture of the ink supply container 200 is an inverted posture with the opening direction of the outlet 460 set vertically downward. The ink inlet member 710 of the ink tank 700 is inserted into the fluid flow path, i.e., the internal flow path 410, within the ink outlet forming section 400 via the through hole 510h of the sealing member 510. As a result, the first valve core 520 is displaced in a second direction D2 away from the sealing member 510 by the ink inlet member 710, thereby separating the first valve core 520 from the sealing member 510. As a result, the first valve 500 is in the open state. Ink in the ink receiving chamber 320 of the container body 300 is supplied to the ink inlet member 710 via an internal flow path 410 formed by the gap between the inner circumferential surface of the ink outlet forming section 400 and the valve frame 517, and a through hole Ho, while air flows into the ink receiving chamber 320 from the can-side ink receiving chamber 760 via the internal flow path 410. This gas-liquid exchange occurs, and ink is replenished to the ink tank 700. Figure 8 In the diagram, solid arrows schematically represent the flow of ink, while dashed arrows schematically represent the flow of air.

[0053] When the ink supply container 200 is pulled out of the ink inlet member 710 after the ink supply to the ink tank 700 is completed, the first valve core 520 comes into contact with the sealing member 510 due to the force of the elastic member 530. As a result, the through hole 510h of the sealing member 510 is blocked by the valve core 520, thereby cutting off the internal flow path 410 and putting the first valve 500 in a closed state. By keeping the first valve 500 in a closed state, leakage of ink from the ink supply container 200 to the outside can be suppressed. Furthermore, when supplying ink from the ink supply container 200 to the ink tank 700, it is not necessary to squeeze the container body 300. Thus, the type of ink supply container that can supply ink without squeezing the container body 300 is called a "non-squeezable type".

[0054] Figure 9 This is a diagram used to further illustrate the ink supply container 200. Figure 9 This is a longitudinal sectional view of one side of the ink supply container 200, including the cap 600. Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the assembled state of the cap 600 after the internal thread 654 of the cap 600 and the external thread 454 of the ink outlet forming part 400 have been screwed together and the cap 600 has been assembled to the ink outlet forming part 400.

[0055] The cap 600 also has an outlet sealing portion 660 that seals the outlet 460 by engaging with the ink outlet forming portion 400. The outlet sealing portion 660 is opposite to the outlet 460. The outlet sealing portion 660 has a circular plate-shaped bottom wall 662 located on the second direction D2 side and two peripheral walls 666, 667 that stand upright from the bottom wall 662 toward the second direction D2 side. The first peripheral wall 666 stands upright from the outer periphery of the bottom wall 662 toward the second direction D2 side and is formed circumferentially. The second peripheral wall 667 stands upright from the portion of the bottom wall 662 that is radially inward than the first peripheral wall 666 toward the second direction D2 side and is formed circumferentially. Furthermore, it can be said that the central protrusion 602 penetrates the portion of the bottom wall 662 that is radially inward than the second peripheral wall 667 and protrudes toward the second direction D2 side. The outlet sealing portion 660 engages with the ink outlet forming portion 400 by receiving the front end portion 455 in the recess 664 defined by the bottom wall 662, the first peripheral wall 666, and the second peripheral wall 667. Thus, in this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the front end portion 455 contacts the first peripheral wall 666, thereby placing the outlet 460 in a sealed state where it is sealed by the outlet sealing portion 660. That is, in the assembled state of the cap 600, the outlet 460 is in a sealed state. Furthermore, the sealing method of the outlet 460 by the outlet sealing portion 660 is not limited to this embodiment; any method that can seal the outlet 460 by the outlet sealing portion 660 is acceptable. For example, in other embodiments, the outlet 460 can be sealed by contacting the second peripheral wall 667 with the inner peripheral surface of the front end portion 455, or by contacting the outlet sealing portion 660 with the front end face of the front end portion 455 that defines the outlet 460.

[0056] The second valve 800 has a valve shaft portion 802 and a second valve core 804. The second valve 800 is formed of a rubber component, such as an elastomer with rubber elasticity. With the cap 600 assembled to the ink outlet forming portion 400, the second valve 800 is located in the internal flow path 410 between the first valve core 520 and the outlet 460. The second valve 800 controls the connectivity of the internal flow path 410. The second valve 800 is a differential pressure valve that opens when the pressure difference ΔP between the area sandwiching the second valve 800 and the area is equal to or greater than a predetermined value P1. Specifically, the second valve 800 opens when the pressure difference ΔP between the first pressure in the space closer to the ink receiving chamber 320 and the second pressure in the space closer to the outlet sealing portion 660 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value P1. Specifically, the second valve 800 opens when the first pressure is higher than or greater than the second pressure by a predetermined value P1. The predetermined value P1 is, for example, in the range of 3 kPa or more and 8 kPa or less; in this embodiment, it is 5 kPa.

[0057] The valve shaft portion 802 is a cylindrical member through which the central protrusion 602 is inserted. That is, the second valve 800, including the second valve core 804, is disposed within the central protrusion 602 of the cap 600. The second valve core 804 is a diaphragm-like member extending radially outward from the end of the valve shaft portion 802 on the second direction D2 side. The second valve core 804 is formed circumferentially. In the sealed state of the cap 600 with the outlet 460 sealed, when the pressure difference ΔP between the first pressure and the second pressure is less than a predetermined value P1, the second valve core 804 is in a closed valve state by contacting at least one of the sealing member 510 and the front end portion 455, i.e., other members. Figure 9 In the indicated state, the second valve core 804 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the sealing member 510, blocking the through hole 510h, thereby placing the second valve 800 in a closed state. The second valve core 804 has the elasticity to open the valve when the pressure difference ΔP between the first pressure and the second pressure is greater than or equal to a predetermined value P1. Details regarding the opening and closing of the second valve 800 will be provided later.

[0058] With the outlet 460 sealed, the central protrusion 602 overcomes the force exerted by the elastic member 530 and presses the first valve core 520 toward the separation direction from the sealing member 510, i.e., the second direction D2. Thus, with the cap 600 assembled and the outlet 460 sealed, the first valve core 520 is separated from the sealing member 510, and the first valve 500 is in the open state.

[0059] Figure 10 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the ink supply container 200 at the first moment of the release process of releasing the seal of the outlet 460. Figure 11 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the ink replenishment container 200 during the second phase of the release process. Figure 12 This is a first partial sectional view of the unsealed state after the sealing has been lifted. Figure 13 This is a second partial cross-sectional view of the released state after the sealing state has been released. During the release process, the second timing is the timing after the release has progressed compared to the first timing. That is, the user rotates the cap 600 relative to the ink outlet forming portion 400 about the axial direction, performing an action to release the engagement between the internal thread portion 654 of the cap 600 and the external thread portion 454 of the ink outlet forming portion 400, thereby changing the state of the ink supply container 200 from [previous state]. Figure 9 The state shown Figure 13 The state transition is shown. With the transition from... Figure 9 The state shown Figure 13 As shown in the state transition, the cap 600 is displaced in the direction away from the ink outlet forming section 400, i.e., the second direction D2, so that the user can open the cap 600.

[0060] exist Figure 10The first timing shown is the state just before the seal between the outlet seal 660 and the outlet 460 is about to be released. Furthermore, at this first timing, a gap is about to form between the internal thread 654 of the cap 600 and the external thread 454 of the ink outlet forming portion 400. That is, at this first timing, the portion of the cap 600 that is closer to the atmosphere than the outlet seal 660 is not open to the atmosphere. Figure 10 In the indicated state, when the pressure difference ΔP between the first pressure and the second pressure is less than a predetermined value P1, the second valve core 804 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the sealing member 510, and the second valve 800 is in a closed state. Because the second valve 800 is in a closed state, the internal flow path 410 is not connected. Furthermore, in Figure 10 In the indicated state, the first valve core 520 is pressed towards the second direction D2 by the central protrusion 602, thereby separating it from the sealing member 510. That is, the first valve 500 is in the open state.

[0061] exist Figure 11 The second timing shown indicates that the seal between the outlet sealing portion 660 and the outlet 460 is released. Furthermore, in this second timing, a gap is formed between the internal thread portion 654 of the cap 600 and the external thread portion 454 of the ink outlet forming portion 400. That is, the inner side of the cap 600 is open to the atmosphere through the gap between the internal thread portion 654 and the external thread portion 454. Figure 11 In the indicated state, when the pressure difference ΔP is less than the predetermined value P1, the second valve core 804 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the sealing member 510 and the inner circumferential surface of the front end 455, and the second valve 800 is in a closed state. Because the second valve 800 is in a closed state, the internal flow path 410 is not connected. Furthermore, in Figure 11 In the indicated state, the first valve core 520 is pressed towards the second direction D2 by the central protrusion 602, thereby separating it from the sealing member 510. That is, the first valve 500 is in the open state. In the second situation, the first valve 500 is in the open state, and the seal of the cap 600 on the outlet 460 is released, but the second valve 800 is in the closed state. Thus, during the opening operation of removing the cap 600 from the ink supply container 200, even if the outlet 460 is set to a horizontal orientation or an orientation with a vertical component, the outflow of ink from the ink receiving chamber 320 from the outlet 460 can be prevented.

[0062] exist Figure 12 In the shown state, the outlet seal 660 is separated from the front end 455, thereby releasing the seal of the outlet seal 660 on the outlet 460. Additionally, in Figure 12 In the state shown, with Figure 11Similarly, in the second instance shown, a gap is formed between the internal thread portion 654 of the cap 600 and the external thread portion 454 of the ink outlet forming portion 400, so that the inner side of the cap 600 is open to the atmosphere. Furthermore, in Figure 12 In the indicated state, the first valve core 520 is slightly separated from the sealing member 510, and the first valve 500 is in the open state. On the other hand, in Figure 12 In the indicated state, when the pressure difference ΔP is less than the predetermined value P1, the second valve core 804 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the front end 455, and the second valve 800 is in a closed state. Therefore, during the opening operation of removing the cap 600 from the ink supply container 200, even if the outlet 460 is set horizontally or with a vertical component, the outflow of ink from the ink receiving chamber 320 from the outlet 460 can be suppressed.

[0063] exist Figure 13 In the state shown, with Figure 12 Compared to the state shown, further unsealing operation 600 is performed. Figure 13 In the indicated state, the seal between the outlet sealing section 660 and the outlet 460 is released. Additionally, in Figure 13 In the shown state, a gap is formed between the internal thread portion 654 of the cap 600 and the external thread portion 454 of the ink outlet forming portion 400, and the inner side of the cap 600 is open to the atmosphere. Furthermore, in Figure 13 In the state shown, the first valve core 520 is in contact with the sealing member 510, and the first valve core 520 blocks the through hole 510h.

[0064] The sealing member 510 is cylindrical and has a sealing body 511 pressed into the front end portion 455, and a first sealing portion 516 as the end portion in the second direction D2. The first sealing portion 516 is an annular protrusion opposing the valve core front end portion 526 in the first direction D1 of the first valve core 520. The first sealing portion 516 protrudes from the sealing body 511 toward the second direction D2. By contacting the valve core front end portion 526 with the first sealing portion 516, the through hole 510h of the first valve core 520 is blocked. That is, the part of the first valve core 520 where the valve core front end portion 526 contacts or separates from the first sealing portion 516 functions as a first opening and closing part for opening and closing the first valve 500. In other words, the first opening and closing part is the part of the valve core front end portion 526 and the first sealing portion 516 that are axially opposed to each other. Figure 13 In the indicated state, the first valve 500 is in a closed state, and the internal flow path 410 is not connected. Furthermore, the second valve core 804 is separated from the components that divide the internal flow path 410, such as the inner circumferential surface of the sealing member 510 and its front end 455. Therefore, the second valve 800 is in an open state. Figure 13In the indicated state, the second valve 800 is open, but since the first valve 500 is closed, even if the outlet 460 is set horizontally or with a vertical component, the ink in the ink receiving chamber 320 can be prevented from flowing out of the outlet 460. Figure 13 Compared to the state shown, the opening operation of the cap 600 is further advanced. Even when the cap 600 is further displaced in the second direction D2 relative to the ink outlet forming part 400, the first valve 500 remains closed.

[0065] As described above, at least during the release process from the sealed state of the cap 600 to the release of the seal, if the pressure difference ΔP is less than a predetermined value P1, the second valve 800 remains in a closed state. Furthermore, during the release process from the sealed state of the cap 600 to the release of the seal, the first valve 500 remains in an open state via the central protrusion 602. Specifically, in this embodiment, during the predetermined period during which the first valve 500 remains in an open state via the central protrusion 602, if the pressure difference ΔP is less than the predetermined value P1, the second valve 800 remains in a closed state. The release process period described above is a part of the predetermined period. Additionally, as... Figure 13 As shown, when the sealing state is released and the first valve 500 is in the closed state, the second valve 800 separates from the sealing member 510 and the front end 455, which are other components.

[0066] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the opening and closing action OC of the second valve 800. Figure 14 The diagram schematically illustrates the closed state SC and the open state SO of the second valve 800. As described above, in the closed state SC of the second valve 800, the second valve core 804 is in contact with other components 499 that divide the internal flow path 410. As described above, the other components 499 include... Figure 9 The sealing member 510 and the front end 455 are shown. Since the second valve 800 is in the closed state SC, as... Figures 9-12 As shown, even when the first valve 500 is in the open state, the internal flow path 410 is in a non-connected state. The closed state SC of the second valve 800 is maintained when the pressure difference ΔP is less than the predetermined value P1.

[0067] On the other hand, in the ink supply container 200, pressure and temperature changes in the environment where the ink supply container 200 is located may cause a pressure difference ΔP to exceed a predetermined value P1. Specifically, the first pressure on the ink receiving chamber 320 side may be higher than the second pressure on the outlet seal 660 side by a predetermined value P1 or more. In this case, the second valve core 804 is driven by the pressure difference ΔP and deforms radially inward in the inward direction Da away from other components 499. As a result, the second valve core 804 separates from other components 499, and the second valve 800 is in the open state SO. Since the second valve 800 is in the open state SO, the internal flow path 410 is connected, and the air on the ink receiving chamber 320 side flows out into the cap 600 through the outlet 460. The air flowing into the cap 600 opens to the atmosphere through the gap formed between the internal thread 654 and the external thread 454 during the opening operation of the cap 600 and flows out to the outside of the cap 600. This helps to suppress the pressure rise within the ink containment chamber 320.

[0068] According to the first embodiment described above, such as Figure 9 As shown, a second valve 800, acting as a differential pressure valve, is disposed between the ink receiving chamber 320 and the outlet sealing section 660. If the pressure difference ΔP is less than a predetermined value P1, the second valve 800 remains closed. Therefore, even if the seal of the cap 600 is released in any position of the ink supply container 200, ink leakage to the downstream side (outer side) of the second valve 800 can be suppressed. This helps to prevent ink contamination. Furthermore, when the ink supply container 200 is recycled after ink replenishment, even if the cap 600 does not completely seal the outlet 460, ink leakage to a position downstream of the second valve 800 is difficult. This helps to suppress ink contamination when recycling the ink supply container 200. Additionally, for example, when the seal of the cap 600 is released with the outlet 460 facing upwards, the second valve 800 opens if the pressure difference ΔP is greater than or equal to the predetermined value P1. Therefore, even when the pressure in the ink chamber 320 increases due to temperature and pressure changes, the air in the ink chamber 320 can still flow out to the outside of the ink supply container 200 via the second valve 800. This easily eliminates the pressurized state of the ink chamber 320. Furthermore, when the pressurized state of the ink chamber 320 is released and the pressure difference ΔP is less than a predetermined value P1, the second valve 800 remains closed again.

[0069] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment described above, even if the first valve 500 is in the open state, the second valve 800 is in the closed state when the pressure difference ΔP is less than the predetermined value P1, thus suppressing the flow of ink to the downstream side of the second valve 800.

[0070] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment described above, such as Figures 9-12 As shown, during the release process, if the pressure difference ΔP is less than the predetermined value P1, the second valve 800 remains closed and the release process continues, thus displacing the second valve 800 in the first direction D1. This increases the volume of the enclosed space from the ink receiving chamber 320 to the second valve 800. Because the volume of the enclosed space increases, the pressure in the enclosed space decreases, making it easier for ink to be drawn into the inner side of the ink outlet forming section 400 when the seal of the cap 600 is released. This further suppresses ink leakage to the outside. Additionally, as... Figure 13 As shown, when the cap 600 is released from its sealing state and the first valve 500 is in the closed state, the second valve 800 separates from the sealing member 510 and the front end 455 and is in the open state. However, since the first valve 500 is in the closed state, it is possible to prevent ink leakage to the downstream side of the first valve 500. In addition, the second valve 800, which includes the second valve core 804, is disposed inside the cap 600, so that the second valve 800 can be replaced together with the cap 600 in case of deterioration.

[0071] B. Second implementation method:

[0072] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the ink supply container 200a of the second embodiment. Figure 15 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the ink refill container 200a, showing its state at the predetermined moment during the opening operation of the cap 600a. Additionally, in Figure 15 In the shown state, a gap is formed between the threaded portion 654 and the external threaded portion 454, through which the cap 600a communicates with the atmosphere. Furthermore, in Figure 15 In the shown state, the outlet seal 660 is separated from the front end 455, which is the released state where the seal of the outlet 460 is released. Ink supply container 200a and Figure 9 The difference between the ink supply container 200 of the first embodiment shown is in the structure of the sealing member 510a of the first valve 500a and the structure of the second valve 800a. The other structures of the ink supply container 200a of the second embodiment are the same as those of the ink supply container 200 of the first embodiment; therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the same structures and descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0073] The second valve 800a is a differential pressure valve integrally formed with the sealing member 510a of the first valve 500a. The second valve 800a is located between the ink receiving chamber 320 and the outlet sealing portion 660. The second valve 800a has a second valve core 804a integrally formed with the sealing member 510a. The second valve core 804a is a membrane-like member extending radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of the sealing portion body 511 and is integrally formed with the sealing member 510a. The second valve core 804a is formed circumferentially throughout the inner circumferential surface of the sealing portion body 511. The second valve core 804a is located at a position closer to the first direction D1 side than the first sealing portion 516. Similar to the first embodiment described above, the sealing member 510a and the second valve 800a are formed of rubber members such as elastomers with rubber elasticity.

[0074] The second valve core 804a has a portion of a through hole 510h formed at its center. The second valve 800a controls the connectivity of the internal flow path 410 by contacting or separating the second valve core 804a from the valve core front end 526 of the first valve core 520. Specifically, when the pressure difference ΔP between the first pressure in the space near the ink receiving chamber 320 of the second valve 800a and the second pressure in the space near the outlet seal 660 of the second valve 800a is less than a predetermined value P1, the second valve core 804a is in a closed state by contacting the valve core front end 526. Furthermore, the second valve core 804a has the elasticity to open the valve when the pressure difference ΔP is greater than or equal to the predetermined value P1. Specifically, when the first pressure is greater than or equal to the second pressure, the second valve core 804a deforms away from the valve core front end 526, thereby separating the second valve core 804a from the first valve core 520. Thus, the second valve 800a opens. The predetermined value P1 is, for example, in the range of 3 kPa or more and 8 kPa or less, and in this embodiment, it is 5 kPa, just like in the first embodiment.

[0075] Similar to the first embodiment described above, during the release process from the sealed state of the cap 600a at outlet 460 to the release of the seal, if the pressure difference ΔP is less than a predetermined value P1, the second valve 800a remains closed, and the second valve core 804a contacts the front end 526 of the valve core. On the other hand, during the release process, the first valve core 520 is pressed by the central protrusion 602 towards the second direction D2 and separates from the sealing member 510a, thus the first valve core 520 is in an open state. In the second embodiment, similar to the first embodiment described above, during the predetermined period during which the first valve 500a remains open via the central protrusion 602, if the pressure difference ΔP is less than the predetermined value, the second valve 800a remains closed. The release process period described above is a part of the predetermined period described above. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, when the cap 600a is opened, after the first valve core 520 contacts the first sealing part 516 and the first valve 500a switches from the open valve state to the closed valve state, the second valve core 804a also contacts the inner circumferential surface of the sealing part body 511, and the second valve 800a remains in the closed valve state.

[0076] As described above, the portion where the first valve core 520 contacts or separates from the first sealing portion 516 functions as a first opening / closing portion for opening and closing the first valve 500a. Furthermore, the portion located at a position closer to the first opening / closing portion in the first direction D1, specifically at a position closer to the first sealing portion 516 in the first direction D1, and where the first valve core 520 contacts or separates from the second valve core 804a, functions as a second opening / closing portion for opening and closing the second valve 800a.

[0077] According to the second embodiment described above, it achieves the same effect as the first embodiment in having the same structure. Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, the second valve 800a can suppress ink flow into the space downstream of the portion where the second valve core 804a contacts the first valve core 520. Therefore, even when the cap 600a is opened with the outlet 460 facing downwards, ink dripping from the outlet 460 can be suppressed. Thus, ink contamination can be suppressed. Additionally, the second valve core 804a only contacts the rigid first valve core 520. Therefore, compared to a flexible member, the second valve core 804a can contact or separate from the first valve core 520, which is easier to dimensionally control, thus making the opening and closing action of the second valve core 804a more stable.

[0078] C. Third implementation method:

[0079] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the ink supply container 200b of the third embodiment. Figure 16This is a partial cross-sectional view of the ink refill container 200b, showing its state at the predetermined moment during the opening operation of the cap 600b. Additionally, in Figure 16 In the shown state, a gap is formed between the threaded portion 654 and the external threaded portion 454, through which the cap 600b communicates with the atmosphere. Additionally, in Figure 16 In the shown state, the outlet seal 660 is separated from the front end 455, which is the released state where the seal of the outlet 460 is released. Ink supply container 200b and Figure 9 The ink supply container 200 of the first embodiment shown differs in the structure of the first valve core 520b of the first valve 500b, the structure of the second valve 800b, and the structure of the central protrusion 602b of the cap 600b. The other structures of the ink supply container 200b of the third embodiment are the same as those of the ink supply container 200 of the first embodiment; therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the same structures, and descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0080] The first valve 500b includes a sealing member 510, a first valve core 520b, and an elastic member 530. The sealing member 510 is disposed within a cylindrical front end portion 455 having an outlet 460. The first valve core 520b has a valve core front end portion 526b and a valve core base end portion 524b. The valve core front end portion 526b is axially opposed to the first sealing portion 516. The valve core front end portion 526b is generally frustoconical in shape. The valve core front end portion 526b has a portion that contacts the first sealing portion 516 circumferentially. The first valve core 520b, including the valve core front end portion 526b, is disposed within the ink outlet forming portion 400 in a manner that allows axial displacement. Thus, the valve core front end portion 526b can contact or separate from the first sealing portion 516. The valve core front end portion 526b has a connecting hole 513 formed radially inward than the portion that contacts the first sealing portion 516. The connecting hole 513 is an axially penetrating hole extending through the front end portion 526b of the valve core, forming part of the internal flow path 410. In this embodiment, two connecting holes 513 are formed.

[0081] The valve core base end 524b is a cylindrical member extending from the end face of the valve core front end 526b in the second direction D2 direction towards the second direction D2 side. The interior of the valve core base end 524b communicates with the connecting hole 513 and the ink receiving chamber 320, forming part of the internal flow path 410.

[0082] The elastic member 530 applies force to the first valve core 520b toward the first sealing part 516 along the first direction D1, so that the first valve core 520b contacts the first sealing part 516.

[0083] The center protrusion of the 600b cap is 602b higher than that of the 600b cap. Figure 9The central protrusion 602 of the first embodiment shown is short. Even in the sealed state, where the cap 600b is fitted to the ink outlet forming portion 400b and the outlet 460 is sealed by the outlet sealing portion 660, the central protrusion 602b is separated from the first valve core 520b. That is, during the opening operation of the cap 600b, which includes the release process from the sealed state of the cap 600b to the release of the sealed state, the first valve core 520b maintains contact with the first sealing portion 516.

[0084] The second valve 800b has a valve shaft portion 802b and a second valve core 804b. The second valve 800b is disposed at a position closer to the second direction D2 side than the first sealing portion 516. Specifically, the second valve 800b is disposed within the valve core base end portion 524b. The valve shaft portion 802b is cylindrical. The end portion of the valve shaft portion 802b on the first direction D1 side is mounted to the front end portion 526b of the valve core. The second valve core 804b is a membrane-like member extending radially outward from the end portion of the valve shaft portion 802b on the second direction D2 side. The second valve core 804b is a circular member when viewed axially. Similar to the first embodiment described above, the sealing member 510 and the second valve 800b are formed of rubber members such as elastomers with rubber elasticity.

[0085] The second valve core 804b controls the connection state of the internal flow path 410 by contacting or separating from the inner wall 524fi of the valve core base end 524b that divides the internal flow path 410. Specifically, when the pressure difference ΔP between the first pressure in the space near the ink receiving chamber 320 and the second pressure in the space near the outlet seal 660 is less than a predetermined value P1, the second valve core 804b contacts the inner wall 524fi of the valve core base end 524b circumferentially, thereby contacting the valve core front end 526 and thus being in a closed valve state. In addition, the second valve core 804b has elasticity to the extent that it elastically deforms and opens the valve when the pressure difference ΔP is greater than or equal to the predetermined value P1. Specifically, when the first pressure is greater than or equal to the predetermined value P1, the second valve core 804b deforms away from the inner circumferential surface of the valve core base end 524b. This deformation is caused by the side of the second valve core 804b that contacts the inner wall 524fi of the valve core base end 524b bending towards the first direction D1 driven by the pressure difference. As a result, the second valve 800b opens, and the internal flow path 410 remains open regardless of whether the first valve core 520b is in contact with the first sealing part 516. The predetermined value P1 is, for example, in the range of 3 kPa or more and 8 kPa or less; in this embodiment, it is 5 kPa, similar to the first embodiment. Thus, the second valve core 804b functions as a differential pressure valve that opens and closes according to the pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides.

[0086] As described above, in the closed state of the second valve 800b, the second valve core 804b is in contact with the inner wall 524fi of the valve core base end 524b. Conversely, in the open state of the second valve 800b, the second valve core 804b separates from the inner wall 524fi of the valve core base end 524b. During the release process, and at other times, if the pressure difference ΔP is greater than or equal to a predetermined value P1, the second valve 800b opens by separating the second valve core 804b from the inner wall 524fi.

[0087] With the ink supply container 200b, whose cap 600b has been removed, inserted into the ink inlet member 710, the ink inlet member 710 presses the first valve core 520b towards the second direction D2, thereby separating the first valve core 520b from the first sealing part 516. This creates a gap between the first valve core 520b and the first sealing part 516, which functions as part of the internal flow path 410. Therefore, even when the second valve 800b is closed, ink can still be supplied from the ink supply container 200b to the ink tank 700.

[0088] According to the third embodiment described above, it achieves the same effect as the other embodiments in having the same structure. Furthermore, according to the third embodiment, during the period from the assembled state of the cap 600b to the completion of opening, including the release process, if the pressure difference ΔP is less than a predetermined value P1, the second valve 800b closes. This prevents ink from reaching the interior of the sealing member 510 on the side closer to the outlet 460 than the first sealing portion 516. This prevents the sealing member 510 from being wetted by ink, and therefore, even when the cap 600b is opened with the outlet 460 facing laterally, obliquely downwards, or downwards, ink leakage from the outlet 460 can be prevented. This prevents ink contamination. In addition, since there is no need to provide a protrusion on the cap 600b for opening the first valve 500b when the cap 600b is in the sealed state, the structure of the cap 600b can be simplified. Furthermore, since the first valve 500b is not opened by the protrusion during storage of the ink supply container 200b equipped with the cap 600b, the reduction in the force of the elastic member 530 can be suppressed. Additionally, according to the third embodiment, the first valve core 520b has a connecting hole 513, and when the pressure difference ΔP is greater than or equal to a predetermined value P1, the second valve 800b opens, thereby easily eliminating the pressurized state upstream of the second valve 800b.

[0089] D. Fourth Implementation Method:

[0090] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating the ink supply container 200c of the fourth embodiment. Figure 17This is a partial cross-sectional view of the ink refill container 200c, showing its state at the predetermined moment during the opening operation of the cap 600c. Additionally, in Figure 17 In the shown state, a gap is formed between the threaded portion 654 and the external threaded portion 454, through which the cap 600c communicates with the atmosphere. Additionally, in Figure 17 In the state shown, the outlet seal 660 is separated from the front end 455, which is the released state where the seal of the outlet 460 is released. Ink supply container 200c and Figure 9 The difference between the ink supply container 200 of the first embodiment shown is the second valve core 804c of the second valve 800c. Specifically, when the second valve 800c is closed, the second valve core 804c only contacts the sealing member 510. That is, the second valve core 804c does not contact the front end 455. The other structures of the ink supply container 200c of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the ink supply container 200 of the first embodiment; therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the same structures, and descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0091] According to the fourth embodiment described above, it achieves the same effect as the other embodiments in having the same structure. Furthermore, according to the fourth embodiment, the second valve core 804c contacts the sealing member 510 in a one-to-one relationship, and the second valve core 804c does not contact multiple members of different materials, thus enabling the second valve 800c to perform stable opening and closing operations. Therefore, when the pressure difference ΔP is greater than or equal to a predetermined value P1, the second valve 800c can be more stably kept in the open state. Additionally, when the second valve core 804c contacts the sealing member 510 and the front end 455 of the ink outlet forming portion 400, it forms a one-to-two relationship, and the materials contacted by the second valve core 804c can be multiple. On the other hand, in the above embodiments, the second valve core 804c only contacts the sealing member 510, thus ensuring a more reliable seal.

[0092] E. Fifth implementation method:

[0093] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating the ink supply container 200d of the fifth embodiment. Figure 18 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the ink replenishment container 200d, showing its state at the predetermined moment during the opening operation of the cap 600d. Additionally, in Figure 18 In the shown state, a gap is formed between the threaded portion 654 and the external threaded portion 454, through which the cap 600d communicates with the atmosphere. Additionally, in Figure 18 In the state shown, the outlet seal 660 is separated from the front end 455, which is the released state where the seal of the outlet 460 is released. Ink supply container 200c and Figure 9The difference between the ink supply container 200 of the first embodiment and the one shown lies in the structure and placement of the second valve 800d. The other structures of the ink supply container 200d in the fifth embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment; therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the same structures and descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0094] The second valve 800d is a generally cylindrical component. The second valve 800d is formed, for example, from a rubber component such as an elastomer with rubber elasticity. The second valve 800d is pressed into the outer peripheral surface of the first peripheral wall 666 of the outlet sealing portion 660, thereby being configured to be in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the outlet sealing portion 660 circumferentially. That is, the second valve 800d is disposed inside the cap 600d. To prevent the second valve 800d from falling off the outlet sealing portion 660, it is preferable to provide protrusions or irregularities on the outer peripheral surface of the outlet sealing portion 660.

[0095] When the pressure difference ΔP (described later) is less than a predetermined value P1, the second valve 800d closes by contacting the outer peripheral surface of the front end portion 455 circumferentially on the side opposite to the side installed on the outlet seal portion 660. Since the second valve 800c is arranged such that it connects the outer peripheral surface of the first peripheral wall 666 of the outlet seal portion 660 to the front end portion 455, it can also be said to be located axially between the ink receiving chamber 320 and the bottom wall 662 of the outlet seal portion 660. Furthermore, the second valve 800d is spaced apart from the protrusion 470, and the gap between the second valve 800d and the protrusion 470 allows for fluid flow.

[0096] The second valve 800d is configured to surround the outer peripheral surface of the front end portion 455. Therefore, in order to facilitate the insertion of the front end portion 455 into the second valve 800, the end portion 455 of the second valve 800d preferably has an inclined surface such as a C-face to increase the inner diameter of the front end portion side of the second valve 800d.

[0097] The second valve 800d controls the connection state of the fluid flow path that connects the outlet 460 with the gap between the internal thread portion 654 and the external thread portion 454. The gap between the internal thread portion 654 and the external thread portion 454, formed during the opening operation of the cap 600d, functions as an atmospheric communication portion connecting the interior and exterior of the cap 600d. The second valve 800d is a differential pressure valve that opens when the pressure difference ΔP between the region sandwiching the second valve 800d is greater than or equal to a predetermined value P1. Specifically, in the direction of fluid flow from the outlet 460 towards the atmospheric communication portion, the second valve 800d opens when the pressure difference ΔP between a first pressure in the space upstream of the second valve 800d and a second pressure in the space downstream of the second valve 800d is greater than or equal to a predetermined value P1. More specifically, the second valve 800d opens when the first pressure is greater than or equal to the second pressure by a predetermined value P1. The second valve 800d is opened by deforming it radially outward away from the outer peripheral surface of the front end 455. The predetermined value P1 is, for example, in the range of 3 kPa or more and 8 kPa or less, and in this embodiment it is 5 kPa.

[0098] Similar to the first embodiment described above, the first valve core 520 is configured to be movable axially and disposed within the ink outlet forming portion 400 in a manner that allows it to contact or separate from the first sealing portion 516. Furthermore, similar to the first embodiment, the elastic member 530 applies force to the first valve core 520 toward the first sealing portion 516 along the first direction D1, causing the first valve core 520 to contact the first sealing portion 516.

[0099] Similar to the first embodiment described above, when the cap 600d is sealed by the outlet sealing part 660 at the outlet 460, the central protrusion 602 presses the first valve core 520 in the second direction D2 to form a gap between the first sealing part 516 and the first valve core 520, thereby opening the first valve 500.

[0100] When the cap 600d is in a sealed state, and the pressure difference ΔP is less than a predetermined value P1, the second valve 800d contacts the outer peripheral surface of the front end 455 and closes. Furthermore, during the release process of the cap 600d from a sealed state until the seal is released, if the pressure difference ΔP is less than the predetermined value P1, the second valve 800d closes. Additionally, during the release process, the first valve 500 remains open via the central protrusion 602. Specifically, in this embodiment, during the predetermined period during which the first valve 500 remains open via the central protrusion 602, if the pressure difference ΔP is less than the predetermined value P1, the second valve 800d remains closed. The release process period is a portion of the predetermined period.

[0101] According to the fifth embodiment described above, it achieves the same effect as the previous embodiments in having the same structure. Furthermore, according to the fifth embodiment, compared to the first to fourth embodiments, the second valve 800d can be positioned further downstream, thus increasing the volume of the space upstream of the second valve 800d. Therefore, for example, when the cap 600d is opened with the outlet 460 facing downwards, even if the ink flows towards the cap 600d due to its own weight, more ink can be collected in the space upstream of the second valve 800d. This further suppresses ink leakage to the outside of the cap 600d. Additionally, according to the fifth embodiment, the second valve 800d is disposed within the cap 600d in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the outlet sealing portion 660, thereby further increasing the volume of the enclosed space from the ink receiving chamber 320 to the second valve 800d. During the release process, if the pressure difference ΔP is less than the predetermined value P1, the second valve 800d remains closed and the release process continues, causing the second valve 800d to displace in the first direction D1. This further expands the volume of the enclosed space, thus further reducing the pressure within the enclosed space. Consequently, when the seal of the cap 600d is released, ink is more easily drawn into the interior of the ink supply container 200d. This further suppresses ink leakage to the outside.

[0102] F. Other implementation methods:

[0103] F-1. Other implementation methods 1:

[0104] In the above embodiments, the external thread portion 454 that engages with the internal thread portion 654 of the cap 600-600d is formed on the outer surface of the ink outlet forming portion 400, 400b, but it may also be formed on the outer surface of the container body portion 300.

[0105] F-2. Other implementation methods 2:

[0106] According to the first embodiment described above, during the release process, when the second valve 800 is in the closed state, the second valve core 804... Figure 9 As shown, in contact with sealing member 510, or as Figure 11The second valve core 804 is shown to contact the sealing member 510 and the front end portion 455. Alternatively, during the release process, when the second valve 800 is in the closed state, the second valve core 804 may contact only the front end portion 455, which is a rigid member, or only the sealing member 510, which is an elastic member. For example, when the second valve core 804 contacts the rigid front end portion 455, it is not too tight compared to contacting a member made of rubber or the like, allowing for smooth opening and closing of the second valve 800. Furthermore, since the front end portion 455 is rigid, its dimensions are easier to manage, enabling high-precision contact and separation between the second valve 800 and the front end portion 455.

[0107] F-3. Other implementation methods 3:

[0108] In the above embodiments, the ink outlet forming part 400, 400b is separate from the container body part 300, but it can also be integrated with the container body part 300.

[0109] F-4. Other implementation methods 4:

[0110] Multiple second valves 800, 800a-800d from the above embodiments can also be combined and mounted on the ink supply container. For example, the ink supply container 200 of the first embodiment may also have the features of the fifth embodiment, in addition to the second valve 800. Figure 18 The second valve 800d is shown. Since the ink supply container 200 has multiple second valves 800, 800d, for example, even if the cap 600 is not properly fitted to the ink outlet forming part 400 and the cap 600 is in a half-open state, the possibility of ink leakage from the ink receiving chamber 320 to the outside can be reduced by the multiple second valves 800, 800d.

[0111] G. Other methods:

[0112] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various ways without departing from its spirit. For example, this disclosure can also be implemented in the following ways. In order to solve part or all of the problems of this disclosure, or to achieve part or all of the effects of this disclosure, the technical features in the above embodiments corresponding to the technical features in the various methods described below can be appropriately replaced or combined. In addition, if a technical feature is not described as a necessary feature in this specification, it can be appropriately deleted.

[0113] (1) According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an ink supply container is provided to supply ink to the printer via an ink inlet member disposed on the printer and having a flow path. The ink supply container comprises: a container body having an ink receiving chamber; an ink outlet forming portion having an externally facing outlet and connected to the container body, the ink outlet forming portion having an internal flow path that allows the outlet to fluidly communicate with the ink receiving chamber; a cap having an outlet sealing portion that seals the outlet by engaging with the ink outlet forming portion; a first valve disposed inside the ink outlet forming portion for controlling the communication state of the internal flow path, the first valve being closed by an elastic member applying force in a first direction from the ink receiving chamber side toward the outlet, and being opened by an ink inlet member inserted from the outlet in a second direction opposite to the first direction, overcoming the applied force; and a second valve disposed in at least one of the interior of the ink outlet forming portion including the outlet and the interior of the cap, and located between the ink receiving chamber and the outlet sealing portion, the second valve being a differential pressure valve that opens when the pressure difference between the pressure in the space of the second valve on the ink receiving chamber side and the pressure in the space of the second valve on the outlet sealing portion side is greater than a predetermined value.

[0114] According to the above method, a second valve, which serves as a differential pressure valve, is disposed between the ink receiving chamber and the outlet seal. If the pressure difference between the space near the ink receiving chamber (below the second valve) and the space near the outlet seal (below the second valve) is less than a predetermined value, the second valve closes. Therefore, even when the cap is released from its seal in any position of the ink supply container, ink leakage to the downstream side (outside the second valve) can be suppressed. This helps to prevent ink contamination. In this embodiment, the downstream side and the paired upstream side are based on the flow direction of the fluid when the fluid flows from the ink receiving chamber to the outside of the cap. Furthermore, when recycling the used ink supply container, even when the cap does not completely seal the outlet, ink leakage to the downstream side (below the second valve) is difficult. This helps to suppress ink contamination when recycling the ink supply container. Additionally, for example, when the cap is released with the outlet facing upwards, the second valve opens if the pressure difference is above a predetermined value. Therefore, even when the pressure in the ink chamber rises due to temperature and pressure changes, the air in the ink chamber can still flow out to the outside of the ink supply container via the second valve. This allows for easy elimination of the pressurized state in the ink chamber.

[0115] (2) In the above manner, it is also possible that during the release process from the sealing state of the cap that seals the outlet to the release state, if the pressure difference is less than the predetermined value, the second valve is in the closed state.

[0116] According to the above method, since the second valve is closed even when the first valve is open, the flow of ink to a position downstream of the second valve can be suppressed when the pressure difference is less than a predetermined value.

[0117] (3) In the above-described manner, the first valve may be a valve that opens and closes between a sealing member and a first valve core. The sealing member is disposed within the front end of the ink outlet forming portion. The first valve core is located at a position closer to the second direction side than the sealing member and is subjected to force by the elastic member. The second valve has a second valve core disposed within the cap. In the sealed state of the cap with the outlet sealed, when the pressure difference is less than a predetermined value, the second valve core is in a closed state by contacting other members that are at least one of the sealing member and the front end of the ink outlet forming portion. During the release process from the sealed state to the release of the sealed state, when the pressure difference is less than the predetermined value, the first valve remains in an open state and the second valve remains in a closed state. In the released state when the sealed state is released and the first valve is in a closed state, the second valve separates from the other members.

[0118] According to the above method, during the release process, if the pressure difference is less than a predetermined value, the second valve remains closed and the release process continues, causing the second valve to displace in the first direction. This expands the volume of the enclosed space from the ink receiving chamber to the second valve. Because the volume of the enclosed space expands, the pressure in the enclosed space decreases, making it easier for ink to be drawn to the inside of the ink outlet forming section when the cap seal is released. This further suppresses ink leakage to the outside. Furthermore, when the cap seal is released and the first valve is closed, the second valve separates from other components and is in an open state. However, since the first valve is closed, ink leakage to the downstream side of the first valve is suppressed. Additionally, since the second valve core is disposed inside the cap, it can be replaced along with the cap in case of deterioration.

[0119] (4) In the above manner, the front end of the ink outlet forming part may be rigid, the second valve core may be elastic, and the second valve core may contact the front end in the closed state of the second valve.

[0120] As described above, the second valve core contacts the rigid front end, thus avoiding excessive contact compared to contact with components made of rubber or similar materials, allowing for smooth opening and closing. Furthermore, the rigidity of the front end facilitates dimensional control.

[0121] (5) In the above manner, the second valve core may also be elastic, and in the closed state of the second valve, the second valve core is only in contact with the sealing member.

[0122] According to the above method, the second valve core contacts the sealing member in a one-to-one relationship, and the second valve core does not contact multiple components of different materials, thus enabling the second valve to perform stable opening and closing operations. Therefore, when the pressure difference is above a predetermined value, the second valve can be kept in the open state more stably. Furthermore, when the second valve core contacts both the sealing member and the front end of the ink outlet forming section, a one-to-two relationship is formed, and the materials contacted by the second valve core can be multiple. On the other hand, in the above method, the second valve core only contacts the sealing member, thus ensuring a more reliable seal.

[0123] (6) In the above-described manner, the first valve may have a first valve core, the second valve may have a second valve core and be disposed within the ink outlet forming portion, the ink supply container may also have a sealing member disposed within the front end portion having the outlet, the first opening and closing portion of the first valve is the portion where the first valve core contacts or separates from the first sealing portion disposed at the end portion of the sealing member in the second direction, the second valve core is integrally formed with the sealing member, and the second opening and closing portion of the second valve is located at a position closer to the first direction side than the first opening and closing portion of the first valve, and is the portion where the first valve core contacts or separates from the second valve core.

[0124] According to the above method, the second valve can suppress ink flow into the ink outlet forming section downstream of the part where the second valve core contacts the first valve core. Therefore, even when the cap is removed with the outlet facing downwards, ink dripping from the outlet can be suppressed. Thus, ink contamination can be suppressed.

[0125] (7) In the above-described manner, the ink outlet forming portion may also have a front end portion having the outlet and a central shaft, and defining an opening for the outlet at the front end. An external thread portion is formed on the outer surface of at least one of the container body portion and the ink outlet forming portion. The cap further comprises: a top wall; a cylindrical side wall connected to the top wall; a central protrusion protruding downward from the center of the top wall when the top wall is positioned above the side wall; and an internal thread portion disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the side wall. The first valve comprises: a sealing member disposed within the front end portion and having a first sealing portion at the end of the first valve on the second direction side; and a first valve core disposed in a manner capable of contacting or separating from the first sealing portion. The ink outlet forming portion is located within the cap; and the elastic member applies force to the first valve core in a first direction toward the first sealing portion, causing the first valve core to contact the first sealing portion. The second valve is disposed within the cap and is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the outlet sealing portion. In the sealed state of the cap with the outlet sealed, the valve is closed by contacting the outer peripheral surface of the front end. In the sealed state, the central protrusion of the cap presses the first valve core in the second direction to form a gap between the first sealing portion and the first valve core, causing the first valve to open. During the release process from the sealed state to the release of the sealed state, if the pressure difference is less than the predetermined value, the second valve closes.

[0126] According to the above method, the second valve can be positioned further downstream, thus increasing the volume of the space upstream of the second valve. Therefore, for example, when the cap is opened with the outlet facing downwards, even if the ink flows towards the cap due to its own weight, more ink can be collected in the space upstream of the second valve. This further suppresses ink leakage to the outside of the cap. Furthermore, according to the above method, the second valve is disposed within the cap in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the outlet seal, further increasing the volume of the enclosed space from the ink receiving chamber to the second valve. Therefore, during the release process, the volume of this enclosed space can be further expanded. This further reduces the pressure in the enclosed space, making it easier for ink to be drawn into the inner side of the ink supply container when the cap seal is released. This further suppresses ink leakage to the outside.

[0127] (8) In the above manner, the first valve may also include: a sealing member disposed in the cylindrical front end of the ink outlet forming portion having the outlet, and having a first sealing portion disposed at the end of the first valve in the second direction; a first valve core disposed in the ink outlet forming portion in such a way that it can contact or separate from the first sealing portion, and having a connecting hole forming part of the internal flow path; and the elastic member applying force to the first valve core in the first direction toward the first sealing portion to make the first valve core contact with the first sealing portion, and the second valve includes a second valve core disposed in the internal flow path at a position closer to the first sealing portion in the second direction as the differential pressure valve.

[0128] According to the above method, the first valve closes during the release process, and the second valve also closes when the pressure difference is less than a predetermined value. Therefore, it is possible to prevent ink from reaching the interior of the sealing member closer to the outlet side than the first sealing part. This prevents the sealing member from being wetted by ink, thus preventing ink leakage from the outlet even when the cap is opened with the outlet facing laterally, obliquely downwards, or downwards. This also helps to prevent ink contamination. Furthermore, with the cap sealed, there is no need to provide a protrusion on the cap for opening the first valve, thus simplifying the cap's structure. Additionally, since the first valve is not opened via the protrusion during storage of the ink supply container with the cap installed, the reduction in the force of the elastic member is prevented.

[0129] (9) In the above manner, it is also possible that, in the closed state of the second valve, the second valve core is in contact with the inner wall of the first valve core, and in the open state of the second valve, the second valve core is separated from the inner wall. During the release process from the sealing state of the cap that seals the outlet to the release of the sealing state, the first valve core maintains contact with the first sealing part, and the second valve opens by separating the second valve core from the inner wall when the pressure difference is above the predetermined value.

[0130] According to the above method, when the pressure difference is above a predetermined value, the second valve opens, thereby easily eliminating the pressurized state upstream of the second valve.

[0131] This disclosure can also be implemented in various ways other than those described above. For example, it can be implemented by a method for manufacturing an ink refill container.

Claims

1. An ink refill container, characterized in that, Ink is supplied to the printer via an ink inlet member configured in the printer and having a flow path. The ink supply container includes: The main body of the container has an ink receiving chamber; The ink outlet forming section has an outwardly facing outlet and is connected to the container body section. The ink outlet forming section has an internal flow path that allows the outlet to be in fluid communication with the ink receiving chamber. The cap has an outlet sealing portion that seals the outlet by engaging with the ink outlet forming portion; The first valve is disposed inside the ink outlet forming section and controls the connection state of the internal flow path. The first valve is closed by the elastic member applying force in a first direction from the ink receiving chamber side toward the outlet, and is opened by the ink inlet member inserted from the outlet in a second direction opposite to the first direction, overcoming the applied force. as well as A second valve is disposed on at least one of the interior of the ink outlet forming section, including the interior of the outlet and the interior of the cap, and is located between the ink receiving chamber and the outlet sealing section. The second valve is a differential pressure valve that opens when the pressure difference between the space on the side of the second valve closer to the ink receiving chamber and the space on the side of the second valve closer to the outlet seal is greater than a predetermined value.

2. The ink refill container according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the release process from the sealed state of the cap that seals the outlet to the release of the seal, if the pressure difference is less than the predetermined value, the second valve is in a closed state.

3. The ink refill container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first valve is a valve that opens and closes the connection between the sealing member and the first valve core. The sealing member is disposed within the front end of the ink outlet forming portion. The first valve core is located on the second direction side closer to the sealing member and is subjected to force by the elastic member. The second valve has a second valve core disposed within the cap. When the cap is sealed and the outlet is sealed, and the pressure difference is less than a predetermined value, the second valve core is in a closed state by contacting other components that are at least one of the sealing member and the front end of the ink outlet forming portion. During the release process from the sealed state until the sealed state is released, if the pressure difference is less than a predetermined value, the first valve remains open and the second valve remains closed. In the released state where the sealing state is released and the first valve is in the closed state, the second valve is separated from the other components.

4. The ink refill container according to claim 3, characterized in that, The front end of the ink outlet forming section is rigid. The second valve core is elastic, and in the closed state of the second valve, the second valve core is in contact with the front end.

5. The ink refill container according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second valve core is elastic, and in the closed state of the second valve, the second valve core only contacts the sealing member.

6. The ink refill container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first valve has a first valve core. The second valve has a second valve core and is disposed within the ink outlet forming section. The ink supply container also includes a sealing member disposed within the front end having the outlet. The first opening / closing portion of the first valve is the portion where the first valve core contacts or separates from the first sealing portion disposed at the end of the sealing member on the second direction side. The second valve core is integrally formed with the sealing member. The second opening and closing part of the second valve is located on the first direction side closer than the first opening and closing part of the first valve, and is the part where the first valve core and the second valve core are in contact or separated.

7. The ink refill container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ink outlet forming section has a front end portion, which has the outlet and a central shaft, and defines an opening for the outlet at the front end. An external thread is formed on the outer surface of at least one of the container body and the ink outlet forming portion. The cap further comprises: a top wall; a cylindrical side wall connected to the top wall; a central protrusion projecting downward from the center of the top wall when the top wall is positioned above the side wall; and an internally threaded portion disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the side wall. The first valve includes: A sealing member is disposed within the front end portion and has a first sealing portion at the end of the sealing member on the second direction side; The first valve core is disposed within the ink outlet forming portion in such a way that it can contact or separate from the first sealing portion; as well as The elastic member applies force to the first valve core in a first direction toward the first sealing portion, causing the first valve core to contact the first sealing portion. The second valve is disposed inside the cap and contacts the outer peripheral surface of the outlet sealing portion. In the sealed state of the cap when the outlet is sealed, the valve contacts the outer peripheral surface of the front end portion to close the valve. In the sealed state, the central protrusion of the cap presses the first valve core in the second direction, creating a gap between the first sealing portion and the first valve core, thereby opening the first valve. During the release process of the cap from the sealed state to the point where the seal is released, if the pressure difference is less than the predetermined value, the second valve closes.

8. The ink refill container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first valve includes: A sealing member is disposed within the cylindrical front end of the ink outlet forming portion having the outlet, and has a first sealing portion disposed at the end of the sealing member on the second direction side; The first valve core is disposed in the ink outlet forming portion in such a way that it can contact or separate from the first sealing portion, and has a connecting hole forming part of the internal flow path; as well as The elastic member applies force to the first valve core in a first direction toward the first sealing portion, causing the first valve core to contact the first sealing portion. The second valve includes a second valve core, which serves as the differential pressure valve, disposed in the internal flow path at a position on the second direction side relative to the first seal.

9. The ink refill container according to claim 8, characterized in that, When the second valve is closed, the second valve core is in contact with the inner wall of the first valve core; when the second valve is open, the second valve core is separated from the inner wall. During the release process from the sealed state of the cap that seals the outlet to the release of the seal, The first valve core maintains contact with the first sealing portion. When the pressure difference is above the predetermined value, the second valve opens by separating the second valve core from the inner wall.

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