Inkjet printing apparatus

Abstract

The inkjet printing apparatus includes: an inkjet head that ejects ink to the outside; and a reservoir that injects ink into the inkjet head. The reservoir includes: a main body providing a space therein for accommodating ink; a first heat transfer member disposed on one side of the main body and transferring heat to the main body; a partition wall located inside the space, and at least a portion of the partition wall defining a plurality of holes through which ink passes; and a liquid level detection sensor connected to an outer side surface of the main body and detecting a liquid level of the ink in the space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to an inkjet printing device, and more particularly to an inkjet printing device used in a manufacturing process of a display device. Background Art

[0002] With the development of information technology, display devices are becoming increasingly important as a medium connecting users and information. As a result, the use of display devices such as liquid crystal display devices, organic light emitting display devices, and plasma display devices is increasing.

[0003] Inkjet printing is increasingly being used in the manufacturing of display devices. For example, inkjet printing can be used to form the optical pattern, color filter, or light-emitting layer of a display device. To form the optical pattern, color filter, or light-emitting layer, the inkjet printing device ejects the ink that forms the optical pattern, color filter, or light-emitting layer onto a substrate. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of the utility model is to provide an inkjet printing device used in a manufacturing process of a display device including a large-area substrate.

[0005] However, the objects of the present invention are not limited to the above objects, and various extensions can be made within the scope not departing from the idea and scope of the present invention.

[0006] To achieve the aforementioned objectives of the present invention, an inkjet printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: an inkjet head for ejecting ink to the outside; and a reservoir for injecting ink into the inkjet head. The reservoir may include: a main body providing a space for accommodating ink; a first heat transfer member disposed on one side of the main body and transferring heat to the main body; a partition wall located within the space, at least a portion of which defines a plurality of holes for ink to pass through; and a liquid level detection sensor connected to an outer surface of the main body and detecting the level of ink in the space.

[0007] In one embodiment, the partition walls may include: a plurality of first partition walls, at least a portion of each of the plurality of first partition walls being defined by a plurality of first holes, wherein the plurality of first partition walls are repeatedly arranged along a first direction, and each of the plurality of first partition walls extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a plurality of second partition walls, at least a portion of each of the plurality of second partition walls being defined by a plurality of second holes, wherein the plurality of second partition walls are repeatedly arranged along the second direction, and each of the plurality of second partition walls extends in the first direction.

[0008] In one embodiment, the plurality of first holes may be defined on any one of a first edge portion and a second edge portion opposing each other of each of the plurality of first partition walls.

[0009] In one embodiment, the plurality of second holes may be defined on any one of the first edge portion and the second edge portion of each of the plurality of second partition walls that are opposite to each other.

[0010] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of first partition walls may define a plurality of through portions, and the plurality of second partition walls may be respectively combined with the plurality of first partition walls through the plurality of through portions.

[0011] In one embodiment, a length of each of the plurality of first partition walls in the second direction may be longer than a length of each of the plurality of second partition walls in the first direction.

[0012] In one embodiment, the number of the second partition walls may be greater than the number of the first partition walls.

[0013] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of holes may be circular in shape.

[0014] In an embodiment, the body may include a plurality of protrusions protruding from a bottom surface of the body at an interior of the space and spaced apart from each other.

[0015] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of protrusions may have a triangular shape when viewed in cross-section.

[0016] In one embodiment, the reservoir may further include: a pressure regulating port disposed on the body and controlling a meniscus pressure inside the inkjet head filled with ink.

[0017] In one embodiment, the liquid reservoir may further include: a first pipe connected to the outer surface of the main body to be filled with at least a portion of the ink located inside the space; and a second pipe connected to the outer surface of the main body to be filled with at least a portion of the ink located inside the space.

[0018] In one embodiment, the liquid level detection sensor may include a first liquid level detection sensor that continuously detects the liquid level of ink filled in the first pipe, thereby feedback-controlling the meniscus pressure inside the inkjet head filled with ink.

[0019] In one embodiment, the liquid level detection sensor may further include: a second liquid level detection sensor configured to detect the liquid level of the ink filled to a specific position in the second pipe.

[0020] In one embodiment, the reservoir may further include: a second heat transfer member inserted into the main body and transferring heat to the main body.

[0021] In an embodiment, the second heat transfer member may have a circular shape when viewed in cross section.

[0022] In one embodiment, the reservoir may further include: a third heat transfer member located inside the space and in direct contact with the ink to transfer heat to the ink.

[0023] In an embodiment, the third heat transfer member may have a circular shape when viewed in cross section.

[0024] To achieve the aforementioned objectives of the present invention, an inkjet printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: an inkjet head for ejecting ink to the outside; and a reservoir for injecting ink into the inkjet head. The reservoir may include: a main body providing a space for accommodating ink; a heat transfer member inserted into the main body and transferring heat to the main body; a partition wall located within the space and configured to allow at least a portion of the ink to pass through; and a liquid level detection sensor connected to an outer surface of the main body for detecting the level of ink in the space.

[0025] In one embodiment, the partition wall may define at least one recessed portion whose surface is recessed on one side and at least one opening portion for ink to pass through.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an inkjet printing device may include: an inkjet head that ejects ink to the outside; and a liquid reservoir that injects ink into the inkjet head. The liquid reservoir may include: a main body that provides a space for accommodating ink inside; a heat transfer member that transfers heat to the main body; a partition wall (for example, a partition wall defining a plurality of holes or a partition wall defining an opening portion and a recessed portion) that is located inside the space and is configured to allow ink to pass through; and a liquid level detection sensor that continuously detects the liquid level of the ink, thereby feedback-controlling the meniscus pressure inside the inkjet head filled with ink. Therefore, the liquid reservoir can constantly inject high-capacity and high-temperature ink into the inkjet head. In addition, by continuously detecting the liquid level of the ink through the liquid level detection sensor, the ejection performance of the inkjet head can be kept uniform.

[0027] However, the effects of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and various extensions can be made within the scope not departing from the idea and field of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing an inkjet printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2 is used to describe Figure 1 A perspective view of the reservoir.

[0030] Figure 3 It is enlarged to show Figure 2 A side view of a liquid level detection sensor and piping included in a liquid reservoir.

[0031] Figure 4 is used to describe Figure 2 A perspective view of an example of a partition wall included in a liquid reservoir.

[0032] Figure 5 is used to describe Figure 2 sectional view of a first heat transfer member, a second heat transfer member and a third heat transfer member.

[0033] Figure 6 is used to describe Figure 4 Floor plan of the adjacent wall.

[0034] Figure 7 is used to describe Figure 4 and Figure 6 A side view of an example of a first partition wall.

[0035] Figure 8 is a plan view for describing an example of a path along which ink flows in a space provided by the main body of the tank.

[0036] Figure 9 is used to describe Figure 4 and Figure 6 A side view of an example of a second partition wall.

[0037] Figure 10 is a plan view for describing another example of a path along which ink flows in a space provided by the main body of the tank.

[0038] Figure 11 is used to describe Figure 4 and Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of another example of a first partition wall.

[0039] Figure 12 is used to describe Figure 4 and Figure 6A cross-sectional view of an example of a body of a reservoir.

[0040] Description of Reference Signs

[0041] IPA: inkjet printing device ST: storage tank

[0042] RV: Reservoir IH: Inkjet Head

[0043] LCA: Liquid Level Control Device TCA: Temperature Control Device

[0044] PCA: Pressure regulating assembly HSA: Heat supply assembly

[0045] STA: Taiwan BD: Main body

[0046] CV: Cover LS1: First liquid level detection sensor

[0047] LS2: Second liquid level detection sensor LP1: First piping

[0048] LP2: Second pipe HTM1: First heat transfer member

[0049] HTM2: Second heat transfer member HTM3: Third heat transfer member

[0050] IDS: Ink Detection Sensor MP: Pressure Regulation Port

[0051] TDS: Temperature detection sensor PW: Partition wall

[0052] PW1: First partition wall PW2: Second partition wall DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Hereinafter, an inkjet printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals are used for the same components in the drawings, and repeated description of the same components will be omitted.

[0054] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing an inkjet printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Reference Figure 1 According to an embodiment of the present invention, an inkjet printing apparatus IPA may include a station STA, a storage tank ST, a liquid reservoir RV, an inkjet head IH, a liquid level adjustment device LCA, a temperature adjustment device TCA, a pressure adjustment device PCA and a heat supply device HSA.

[0056] The substrate SUB may be placed on the stage STA. The stage STA may support the substrate SUB. The stage STA may include a rigid material. However, the material of the stage STA is not limited thereto. For example, the stage STA may have a rectangular cross-section. However, the cross-sectional shape of the stage STA is not limited thereto.

[0057] In one embodiment, the substrate SUB may be a large-area substrate included in a display device. In this case, ink may be ejected onto the substrate SUB by an inkjet printing apparatus IPA to form an optical pattern, color filter, or light-emitting layer included in the display device.

[0058] The inkjet head IH may be located on the substrate SUB and spaced a predetermined distance from the stage STA. The inkjet head IH may eject the ink IK to the outside. Specifically, the inkjet head IH may eject the ink IK onto the substrate SUB. The inkjet head IH ejects the ink IK onto the substrate SUB, thereby forming the above-mentioned optical pattern, the above-mentioned color filter, or the above-mentioned light-emitting layer. In one embodiment, the inkjet head IH may include a heat transfer member. The above-mentioned heat transfer member may transfer heat to the ink IK located inside the inkjet head IH. In this case, the temperature of the ink IK located inside the inkjet head IH may increase.

[0059] The storage tank ST can store the ink IK and can supply the ink IK to the reservoir RV through the first connecting pipe IL1.

[0060] The reservoir RV may be located on the inkjet head IH. The reservoir RV may receive ink IK from the storage tank ST. Specifically, the reservoir RV may receive the ink IK via a first connecting tube IL1. Furthermore, the reservoir RV may inject the ink IK into the inkjet head IH. Specifically, the reservoir RV may inject the ink IK into the inkjet head IH via a second connecting tube IL2. The reservoir RV will be described in detail later.

[0061] The liquid level adjusting device LCA can adjust the liquid level of the ink IK located inside the liquid reservoir RV. That is, the liquid level adjusting device LCA can control the liquid level detection sensor (for example, Figure 2 and Figure 3 The first liquid level detection sensor LS1 and the second liquid level detection sensor LS2).

[0062] The temperature adjustment device TCA can adjust the temperature of the ink IK located inside the reservoir RV. That is, the temperature adjustment device TCA can control the temperature detection sensor (for example, Figure 2a temperature detection sensor TDS and a temperature detection sensor arranged at a temperature detection port TSP) and a heat supply device HSA.

[0063] To heat the reservoir RV, the heat supply device HSA can supply electricity to the reservoir RV. Specifically, electricity is supplied to the reservoir RV via the heat supply device HSA, and heat can be supplied to the reservoir RV via this electricity. Furthermore, the heat supply device HSA can be controlled by a temperature control device TCA. That is, the heat supply device HSA can supply electricity to the reservoir RV in response to information received from the temperature control device TCA (e.g., the temperature of the ink IK within the reservoir RV).

[0064] The pressure regulating device PCA can be connected to the reservoir RV. Specifically, the pressure regulating device PCA can be connected to the pressure regulating port (e.g., Figure 2 The pressure regulating device PCA is connected to a pressure regulating port MP of the inkjet head IH. The pressure regulating device PCA can control the pressure regulating port MP to adjust the ink ejection pressure applied to the nozzles of the inkjet head IH. Specifically, before the inkjet printing process, the pressure regulating device PCA can control the pressure regulating port MP to adjust the meniscus pressure inside the inkjet head IH (for example, inside the nozzles) filled with ink IK.

[0065] In order for the inkjet head IH to stably eject the ink IK, the viscosity of the ink IK should be low. For example, in order for the inkjet head IH to stably eject the ink IK, the viscosity of the ink IK should be below approximately 10 cPS. The higher the temperature of the ink IK, the lower the viscosity of the ink IK. Furthermore, the lower the temperature of the ink IK, the higher the viscosity of the ink IK. In other words, the temperature and viscosity of the ink IK are inversely proportional.

[0066] Used in inkjet printing processes Figure 1 In the case of a reservoir RV, the temperature of the ink IK injected into the inkjet head IH through the reservoir RV can be high. Figure 1 The viscosity of the ink IK injected into the inkjet head IH by the reservoir RV can be low. Therefore, the ink IK can be stably ejected from the inkjet head IH.

[0067] Figure 2 is used to describe Figure 1 A perspective view of the reservoir. Figure 3 It is enlarged to show Figure 2 A side view of a liquid level detection sensor and piping included in a liquid reservoir. Figure 4 is used to describe Figure 2 A perspective view of an example of a partition wall included in a liquid reservoir. Figure 5 is used to describe Figure 2sectional view of a first heat transfer member, a second heat transfer member and a third heat transfer member. Figure 6 is used to describe Figure 4 Floor plan of the adjacent wall.

[0068] In this specification, a plane may be defined along a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. For example, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 may be perpendicular to each other. In addition, the third direction DR3 may be perpendicular to the plane.

[0069] Reference Figures 1 to 6 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the liquid reservoir RV of the inkjet printing apparatus IPA may include a body BD, a cover CV, a first heat transfer member HTM1, a second heat transfer member HTM2, a third heat transfer member HTM3, a partition wall PW, a pressure regulating port MP, an ink detection sensor IDS, a temperature detection sensor TDS, a temperature detection port TSP, a liquid level detection sensor and piping.

[0070] The body BD may internally provide a space SC for accommodating the ink IK. It may have the shape of a rectangular hexahedron with one side (e.g., the upper surface) open. However, the shape of the body BD is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the body BD may include a metal substance having a high heat transfer coefficient. For example, the body BD may include aluminum (Al). However, the metal substance included in the body BD is not limited thereto.

[0071] An outer side surface of the body BD may be formed with an ink supply port SP. A first connection pipe IL1 connected to the reserve tank ST may be connected to the ink supply port SP to supply the ink IK to the reservoir RV.

[0072] At least one ink injection port IP (see FIG. 1 ) may be formed on the bottom surface of the main body BD inside the space SC provided by the main body BD. Figure 6 The ink injection port IP is connected to the inkjet head IH via the second connecting tube IL2, so that the ink IK within the space SC provided by the main body BD can be injected into the inkjet head IH through the ink injection port IP. For example, the number of ink injection ports IP can be three. However, the number of ink injection ports IP is not limited thereto.

[0073] The cover CV may be disposed on the main body BD. The cover CV may cover the upper surface of the main body BD. In other words, the cover CV may cover the upper surface of the main body BD so that the open portion of the main body BD is not exposed to the outside. The cover CV may include a metal material with a high heat transfer coefficient. For example, the cover CV may include aluminum (Al). However, the metal material included in the cover CV is not limited thereto.

[0074] The temperature detection sensor TDS may be disposed on the upper surface of the main body BD. Specifically, the temperature detection sensor TDS may penetrate the upper surface of the main body BD to directly contact the ink IK located within the space SC provided by the main body BD. The temperature detection sensor TDS can detect the temperature of the ink IK through direct contact with the ink IK. For example, the number of temperature detection sensors TDS may be three. However, the number of temperature detection sensors TDS is not limited to this.

[0075] A temperature detection port TSP may be formed on the upper surface of the main body BD. Another temperature detection sensor may be inserted into the temperature detection port TSP. The other temperature detection sensor may detect the temperature of the main body BD.

[0076] At least one first heat transfer member HTM1 may be disposed on a side of the main body BD. For example, the first heat transfer member HTM1 may be inserted into the main body BD. Specifically, the first heat transfer member HTM1 may be inserted into a side portion of the main body BD in the second direction DR2. The first heat transfer member HTM1 may transfer heat to the main body BD. For example, when viewed in cross-section, the first heat transfer member HTM1 may have a rectangular shape. However, the shape of the first heat transfer member HTM1 is not limited thereto.

[0077] Alternatively, the first heat transfer member HTM1 may also be disposed on the upper surface of the cover CV. In this case, the first heat transfer member HTM1 may transfer heat to the main body BD through the cover CV.

[0078] At least one second heat transfer member HTM2 may be inserted into the main body BD. Specifically, the second heat transfer member HTM2 may be inserted into the bottom of the main body BD in the second direction DR2. The second heat transfer member HTM2 may transfer heat to the main body BD. For example, the second heat transfer member HTM2 may have a circular shape when viewed in cross section. However, the shape of the second heat transfer member HTM2 is not limited thereto.

[0079] For example, the number of the first heat transfer members HTM1 may be 2, and the number of the second heat transfer members HTM2 may be 3. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0080] The ink detection sensor IDS may be disposed on the body BD. Specifically, the ink detection sensor IDS may be disposed on the upper surface of the cover CV. If ink IK is being supplied to the pressure regulation port MP, the pressure regulation device PCA may be malfunctioning. To confirm whether the pressure regulation device PCA has malfunctioned, the ink detection sensor IDS can detect whether ink is being supplied to the pressure regulation port MP.

[0081] The partition wall PW may be located within the space SC provided by the main body BD. At least a portion of the partition wall PW may define a plurality of holes for the ink IK to pass through. For example, the partition wall PW may include a metal material with a high thermal conductivity. In one embodiment, the partition wall PW may include aluminum (Al). However, the metal material included in the partition wall PW is not limited thereto.

[0082] In one embodiment, the partition walls PW may include a plurality of first partition walls PW1 at least partially defining a plurality of first holes H1 and a plurality of second partition walls PW2 at least partially defining a plurality of second holes H2. The plurality of second partition walls PW2 may respectively penetrate the plurality of first partition walls PW1.

[0083] In one embodiment, the plurality of second partition walls PW2 may respectively penetrate the plurality of first partition walls PW1 to form a bond. Specifically, each of the plurality of first partition walls PW1 may define a plurality of through portions, and each of the plurality of second partition walls PW2 may define a plurality of contact portions. Because the plurality of contact portions may contact the plurality of first partition walls PW1 via the plurality of through portions, the plurality of second partition walls PW2 may respectively bond with the plurality of first partition walls PW1.

[0084] For example, the shape of each of the plurality of first holes H1 and the plurality of second holes H2 may be a circle. However, the shape of each of the plurality of first holes H1 and the plurality of second holes H2 is not limited thereto.

[0085] In one embodiment, a plurality of first partition walls PW1 may be repeatedly arranged along the first direction DR1, and each of the plurality of first partition walls PW1 may extend along the second direction DR2. In addition, a plurality of second partition walls PW2 may be repeatedly arranged along the second direction DR2, and each of the plurality of second partition walls PW2 may extend along the first direction DR1.

[0086] The length L1 of each of the plurality of first partition walls PW1 in the second direction DR2 may be different from the length L2 of each of the plurality of second partition walls PW2 in the first direction DR1. In one embodiment, the length L1 of each of the plurality of first partition walls PW1 in the second direction DR2 may be longer than the length L2 of each of the plurality of second partition walls PW2 in the first direction DR1 (see FIG. Figure 6 ).

[0087] The number of the plurality of first partition walls PW1 may be different from the number of the plurality of second partition walls PW2. In one embodiment, the number of the plurality of first partition walls PW1 may be less than the number of the second partition walls PW2. For example, the number of the plurality of first partition walls PW1 may be 2, while the number of the plurality of second partition walls PW2 may be 5. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0088] Each of the plurality of second partition walls PW2 may define a groove GV. The groove GV may be adjacent to the bottom surface of the body BD.

[0089] The plurality of first partition walls PW1 may assist the flow path of the ink IK within the space SC provided by the body BD. In addition, the plurality of first partition walls PW1 may assist heat transfer of the heat transfer members (eg, the first heat transfer member HTM1, the second heat transfer member HTM2, and the third heat transfer member HTM3).

[0090] The plurality of second partition walls PW2 can reduce the flow rate of the ink IK within the space SC defined by the main body BD. Therefore, the ink IK newly supplied to the reservoir RV can effectively exchange heat with the existing ink IK within the space SC via the main body BD and the partition walls PW. In this manner, the temperature of the ink IK injected from the reservoir RV into the inkjet head IH can be sufficiently high.

[0091] The third heat transfer member HTM3 may be located inside the space SC provided by the body BD (refer to Figure 5 The third heat transfer member HTM3 may be in direct contact with the ink IK. The third heat transfer member HTM3 may transfer heat to the ink IK. Furthermore, the third heat transfer member HTM3 may be arranged along the groove GV of each of the plurality of second partition walls PW2. For example, when viewed in cross-section, the third heat transfer member HTM3 may have a circular shape. However, the shape of the third heat transfer member HTM3 is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the third heat transfer member HTM3 may be omitted.

[0092] At least one pipe connection hole PCH may be formed on the bottom surface of the main body BD within the space SC provided therein. Ink IK can enter the pipe connection hole PCH. For example, the number of pipe connection holes PCH may be three. However, the number of pipe connection holes PCH is not limited thereto.

[0093] In one embodiment, the pipe may include a first pipe LP1.

[0094] The first pipe LP1 can be connected to the outer surface of the main body BD to be filled with at least a portion of the ink IK located within the space SC provided by the main body BD. The first pipe LP1 can be connected to the pipe connection hole PCH. In other words, the ink IK located within the space SC can fill at least a portion of the first pipe LP1 through the pipe connection hole PCH. The first pipe LP1 can extend in the third direction DR3.

[0095] In one embodiment, the piping may further include a second piping LP2. The second piping LP2 may be connected to the outer surface of the main body BD to be filled with at least a portion of the ink IK located within the space SC provided by the main body BD. The second piping LP2 may be connected to the piping connection hole PCH. In other words, the ink IK located within the space SC may fill at least a portion of the second piping LP2 through the piping connection hole PCH. The second piping LP2 may extend in the third direction DR3.

[0096] The liquid level detection sensor may be connected to the outer surface of the main body BD and may detect the liquid level of the ink IK in the space SC provided by the main body BD.

[0097] In one embodiment, the liquid level detection sensor may include a first liquid level detection sensor LS1 that can continuously detect the liquid level of the ink IK filled in the first pipe LP1, thereby feedback-controlling the meniscus pressure inside the inkjet head IH filled with the ink IK.

[0098] Specifically, the first liquid level detection sensor LS1 has a liquid level detection area LSA. The first liquid level detection sensor LS1 can continuously detect the liquid level of the ink IK until the ink IK reaches the area of the first pipe LP1 corresponding to the liquid level detection area LSA. For example, the length of the liquid level detection area LSA in the third direction DR3 can be approximately 30 mm. If the liquid level of the ink IK detected by the first liquid level detection sensor LS1 corresponds to a specific position in the liquid level detection area LSA, feedback control can be performed so that the meniscus pressure inside the inkjet head IH filled with the ink IK reaches a negative pressure value corresponding to the specific position.

[0099] The inkjet printing apparatus IPA of the present invention can be used in the manufacturing process of display devices that include large-area substrates. Therefore, the consumption of ink IK may increase during this process. As described above, the first liquid level detection sensor LS1 can continuously detect the liquid level of the ink IK, and this can be used to feedback-control the meniscus pressure within the inkjet head IH filled with ink IK. This allows for consistent ejection performance of the inkjet head IH.

[0100] In one embodiment, the liquid level detection sensor may further include a second liquid level detection sensor LS2 that can detect the liquid level of the ink filled to a specific position P in the second pipe LP2.

[0101] The pressure regulating port MP may be disposed on the body BD. Specifically, the pressure regulating port MP may be disposed on the upper surface of the cover CV. The pressure regulating port MP may regulate the meniscus pressure inside the inkjet head IH filled with ink IK.

[0102] Figure 7 is used to describe Figure 4 and Figure 6 A side view of an example of a first partition wall. Figure 8 is a plan view for describing an example of a path along which ink flows in a space provided by the main body of the tank.

[0103] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 7 The first partition wall PW1 may include a first edge portion EP11 and a second edge portion EP21 that are opposite to each other. In one embodiment, either the first edge portion EP11 or the second edge portion EP21 may define a plurality of first holes H1. For example, only the first edge portion EP11 may define a plurality of first holes H1. Alternatively, only the second edge portion EP21 may define a plurality of first holes H1.

[0104] The first partition wall PW1 may define a plurality of through-parts PP, and the second partition wall PW2 may be coupled to the first partition wall PW1 through the plurality of through-parts PP.

[0105] Further references Figure 8 , each of the plurality of first partition walls PW1 may correspond to Figure 7 The first partition wall PW1 and each of the plurality of second partition walls PW2 may correspond to Figure 4 In this case, for the first partition walls PW1 located in the first row, only the second edge portion EP21 may define a plurality of first holes H1, and for the first partition walls PW1 located in the second row adjacent to the first row, only the first edge portion EP11 may define a plurality of first holes H1.

[0106] For example, the ink IK supplied to the interior of the space SC may pass through the plurality of second partition walls PW2 along the second direction DR2, then pass through the first partition walls PW1 located in the first row, then pass through the plurality of second partition walls PW2 in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2, then pass through the first partition walls PW1 located in the second row, and then pass through the plurality of second partition walls PW2 along the second direction DR2. The ink IK passing through the partition walls PW may be injected into the inkjet head (e.g., Figure 1 inkjet head IH).

[0107] Figure 9 is used to describe Figure 4 and Figure 6A side view of an example of a second partition wall. Figure 10 is a plan view for describing another example of a path along which ink flows in a space provided by the main body of the tank.

[0108] Reference Figure 2 、 Figure 4 and Figure 9 The second partition wall PW2 may include a first edge portion EP12 and a second edge portion EP22 that are opposite to each other. In one embodiment, either the first edge portion EP12 or the second edge portion EP22 may define a plurality of second holes H2. For example, only the first edge portion EP12 may define a plurality of second holes H2. Alternatively, only the second edge portion EP22 may define a plurality of second holes H2.

[0109] Refer again Figure 7 The first partition wall PW1 may define a plurality of through-holes PP. In addition, the second partition wall PW2 may define a plurality of contact portions CNP. Since the plurality of contact portions CNP contact the first partition wall PW1 through the plurality of through-holes PP, the second partition wall PW2 may be combined with the first partition wall PW1.

[0110] Further references Figure 10 , each of the plurality of second partition walls PW2 may correspond to Figure 9 The second partition wall PW2, and each of the plurality of first partition walls PW1 may correspond to Figure 4 In this case, for the second partition walls PW2 located in odd columns (for example, the first column, the third column, and the fifth column), only the second edge portion EP22 may be defined with a plurality of second holes H2, and for the second partition walls PW2 located in even columns (for example, the second column and the fourth column), only the first edge portion EP12 may be defined with a plurality of second holes H2.

[0111] For example, the ink IK supplied to the interior of the space SC may pass through the plurality of first partition walls PW1 along the first direction DR1, then pass through the second partition walls PW2 located in the first column along the second direction DR2, then pass through the plurality of first partition walls PW1 in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1, then pass through the second partition walls PW2 located in the second column along the second direction DR2, then pass through the plurality of first partition walls PW1 along the first direction DR1, then pass through the second partition walls PW2 located in the third column along the second direction DR2, then pass through the plurality of first partition walls PW1 in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1, then pass through the second partition walls PW2 located in the fourth column, and then pass through the plurality of first partition walls PW1 along the first direction DR1. The ink IK passing through the partition walls PW may be injected into the inkjet head (e.g., Figure 1inkjet head IH).

[0112] Each of the plurality of second partition walls PW2 corresponds to Figure 9 The second partition wall PW2 corresponds to the plurality of first partition walls PW1. Figure 4 The first partition wall PW1, therefore, Figure 8 In contrast, the flow path of the ink IK can be changed. Therefore, the remaining time of the ink IK within the space SC can be increased. In this case, the ink IK newly supplied to the reservoir RV can fully exchange heat with the existing ink IK within the space SC through the main body BD and the partition wall PW.

[0113] Figure 11 is used to describe Figure 4 and Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of another example of a first partition wall.

[0114] Reference Figure 2 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 6 and Figure 11 , the partition wall PW can be configured to allow the ink IK to pass through. The partition wall PW may include a first partition wall PW1, but not a second partition wall PW2. In one embodiment, the first partition wall PW1 may define at least one recessed portion DP with a recessed surface on one side and at least one opening OP for the ink IK to pass through. Therefore, the ink IK can be induced to form a turbulent flow within the space SC. In this case, the ink IK newly supplied to the reservoir RV can fully achieve heat exchange with the existing ink IK within the space SC through the main body BD and the partition wall PW.

[0115] Figure 12 is used to describe Figure 4 and Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of an example of a body of a reservoir.

[0116] Reference Figure 12 In one embodiment, within the space SC, the body BD may include a plurality of protrusions PRP that protrude from the bottom surface BS of the body BD toward the third direction DR3 and are spaced apart from each other. For example, each of the plurality of protrusions PRP may have a triangular shape when viewed in cross section. However, the shape of each of the plurality of protrusions PRP is not limited thereto.

[0117] The plurality of protrusions PRP of the body BD induces turbulent flow of the ink IK inside the space SC. In this case, the ink IK newly supplied to the reservoir RV can fully exchange heat with the existing ink IK inside the space SC through the body BD and the partition wall PW.

[0118] In the case where the body BD includes a plurality of protrusions PRP, a partition wall (eg, Figure 4 Alternatively, even in the case where the main body BD includes a plurality of protrusions PRP, the above-mentioned partition wall PW may be arranged inside the space SC of the main body BD.

[0119] Refer again Figures 1 to 12 The inkjet printing apparatus IPA according to one embodiment of the present invention may include: an inkjet head IH for ejecting ink IK to the outside; and a reservoir RV for injecting ink IK into the inkjet head IH. The reservoir RV may include: a body BD for providing a space SC for accommodating the ink IK; heat transfer members HTM1 and HTM2 for transferring heat to the body BD; partition walls (e.g., Figure 4 The partition wall PW defining the plurality of holes H1 and H2 or Figure 11 A partition wall PW defining an opening OP and a recessed portion DP is located inside the space BD and is configured to allow the ink IK to pass through; and a first liquid level detection sensor LS1 continuously detects the liquid level of the ink IK to feedback control the meniscus pressure inside the inkjet head IH filled with the ink IK.

[0120] Therefore, the reservoir RV can constantly inject high-capacity and high-temperature ink into the inkjet head IH. In addition, the first liquid level detection sensor LS1 continuously detects the liquid level of the ink IK, so that the ejection performance of the inkjet head IH can be kept uniform.

[0121] While the present invention has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the appended claims.

[0122] Industrial Applicability

[0123] The present invention can be applied to the process of manufacturing a display device that can include a display device. For example, the present invention can be applied to the process of manufacturing high-resolution smartphones, portable phones, smart tablets, smart watches, tablet PCs, vehicle navigation systems, televisions, computer monitors, laptop computers, etc.

Claims

1. An inkjet printing device, characterized in that include: Inkjet head, which ejects ink to the outside; as well as A liquid reservoir for injecting ink into the inkjet head, comprising: a main body, providing a space inside for accommodating the ink; a first heat transfer member disposed on one side of the main body and transferring heat to the main body; a partition wall located inside the space, wherein at least a portion of the partition wall defines a plurality of holes through which the ink passes; and The liquid level detection sensor is connected to the outer surface of the main body and detects the liquid level of the ink in the space.

2. The inkjet printing device according to claim 1, wherein The partition wall comprises: a plurality of first partition walls, at least a portion of each of the plurality of first partition walls defining a plurality of first holes, wherein the plurality of first partition walls are repeatedly arranged along a first direction and each of the plurality of first partition walls extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and A plurality of second partition walls, at least a portion of each of which defines a plurality of second holes, wherein the plurality of second partition walls are repeatedly arranged along the second direction and each of the plurality of second partition walls extends in the first direction.

3. The inkjet printing device according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of first holes are defined on any one of a first edge portion and a second edge portion opposing each other of each of the plurality of first partition walls.

4. The inkjet printing device according to claim 2, wherein The plurality of second holes are defined on any one of a first edge portion and a second edge portion opposing each other of each of the plurality of second partition walls.

5. The inkjet printing device according to claim 2, wherein Each of the plurality of first partition walls defines a plurality of through portions, and The plurality of second partition walls are respectively connected to the plurality of first partition walls through the plurality of through portions.

6. The inkjet printing device according to claim 2, wherein: The length of each of the plurality of first partition walls in the second direction is longer than the length of each of the plurality of second partition walls in the first direction, and The number of the second partition walls is greater than the number of the first partition walls.

7. The inkjet printing device according to claim 1, wherein The body includes a plurality of protrusions protruding from a bottom surface of the body at an interior of the space and spaced apart from each other.

8. The inkjet printing device according to claim 1, wherein The liquid reservoir further comprises: a first pipe connected to an outer surface of the main body so as to be filled with at least a portion of the ink located inside the space; and a second pipe connected to the outer surface of the main body so as to be filled with at least a portion of the ink located inside the space; Wherein, the liquid level detection sensor includes: The first liquid level detection sensor continuously detects the liquid level of the ink filled in the first pipe, thereby feedback-controlling the meniscus pressure inside the inkjet head filled with the ink.

9. The inkjet printing device according to claim 8, wherein The liquid level detection sensor also includes: The second liquid level detection sensor detects the liquid level of the ink filled to a specific position in the second pipe.

10. The inkjet printing device according to claim 1, wherein The liquid reservoir further comprises: The second heat transfer member is inserted into the main body and transfers heat to the main body.

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