Liquid container and image recording device

Abstract

The liquid container has a housing with an outer surface, a liquid reservoir formed in the housing for storing more than 100 milliliters of liquid. A liquid flow path is provided for interchanging the liquid between the liquid reservoir and an exterior of the liquid container on the outer surface of the housing. A sensor is provided to detect a position and another position of a movable element for transmitting the signal to the former and latter positions of the movable element. A memory is provided for storing data. An independent claim is included for an image recording device with a main body.

Description

BACKGROUND 1. Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a liquid container for storing liquid, such as ink, and to an image recording device with a liquid container and to a main body for receiving the liquid container. 2. State of the art

[0002] A detachably mounted ink tank in an inkjet printer is described in published Japanese patent publication no. 2007-196664. The ink tank comprises a circuit board with a first short-circuit detection terminal, a ground terminal, a power supply terminal, a second short-circuit detection terminal, a first sensor supply terminal, a reset terminal, a clock terminal, a data terminal, and a second sensor supply terminal. The first and second sensor supply terminals are electrically connected to the sensor that detects the ink level. The data terminal is electrically connected to a memory that includes serially accessible memory cells and executes read / write commands synchronized to the clock signal. The first and second sensor terminals are located at opposite ends of the circuit board.

[0003] Due to the ongoing miniaturization of electrical devices, a large number of connections must be arranged on a relatively small area of ​​a connection chip's substrate, such as the housing of a liquid container. Because of the close proximity of the connections, the probability of short circuits between the power supply connection and the connection chip, and, for example, a data connection, increases. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent or at least reduce short circuits between, for example, the power supply connection and a data connection connected to a memory device that stores data from outside the liquid container (e.g., an image recording device).

[0004] One cause of a short circuit between multiple connections is mist (e.g., ink mist) or liquid droplets (e.g., ink droplets). For example, the mist can be caused by ink ejected from an inkjet printhead of the image recording device, which adheres to the substrate on which the multiple connections are located.

[0005] Especially in high-speed inkjet printers, such as line-printhead inkjet printers that use a liquid reservoir with a large amount of liquid, a lot of ink mist is generated by the inkjet printhead in the image recording device because many print media are output.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve the overall electrical robustness of a liquid reservoir for a line printhead printer with respect to electrical short circuits between the terminals of a substrate. SUMMARY

[0007] Surprisingly, the inventors discovered that the probability of a short circuit increases with the operating time of the high-speed image recording device since the ink reservoir was last inserted. Specifically for high-speed inkjet printers, such as line-printed inkjet printers, the inventors found that the humidity inside the printer housing increases with the number of pages printed per unit of time. This is due to the rapid drying process of the various liquids (e.g., ink, water used as a humidifier, or an ink pretreatment fluid) dispensed from the reservoir onto the recording medium (e.g., paper). Therefore, the risk of a short circuit at a contact substrate increases with operating time.

[0008] Connections on the substrate that repeatedly send and receive data during and at the end of the service life of a liquid container are therefore more vulnerable than connections that send and receive data, particularly during or shortly after the insertion of the ink cartridge into the liquid-dispensing device.

[0009] In the event that the distance between the memory terminals and the sensor terminal and the electrical supply input terminal is the same, the probability of damaging the memory due to a short circuit between the memory terminal and the electrical supply input terminal is greater than the probability of damaging the sensor due to a short circuit between the sensor terminal and the electrical supply input terminal.

[0010] Therefore, the connections that repeatedly send and receive data during the printer's service life should be better protected.

[0011] To solve the problem described above, embodiments of the present invention provide a liquid reservoir for a line printhead printer and an image recording device according to claims 1 to 15.

[0012] To improve the overall electrical robustness of a liquid reservoir with respect to electrical short circuits, the present invention provides a liquid reservoir for a line printhead, comprising a housing with an outer surface and a liquid reservoir in the housing, which is suitable for storing more than 100 milliliters of liquid, and a liquid path suitable for allowing liquid exchange between the liquid reservoir and an outer surface of the liquid reservoir, and a sensor suitable for detecting a first and second position of a moving element and suitable for outputting a signal with respect to the first and second position of the moving element, and a memory suitable for storing data, and a substrate on the outer surface of the housing on which a plurality of terminals are arranged.The array of connections includes a sensor connector, which is connected to a sensor; a data connector, which is connected to a memory; and a power supply connector, which is connected to at least one of the sensor and the memory. The distance between the power supply connector and the data connector is greater than the distance between the power supply connector and the sensor connector.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, the liquid reservoir of the liquid container is suitable for releasing liquid from the liquid container to the exterior of the liquid container in such a quantity that the moisture increases at certain points of the line printhead.

[0014] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the sensor of the liquid container is suitable to output a signal according to the first and second position of the movable element during or after the insertion of the liquid container into a receiving section of the line printhead printer, and the data port is designed to transmit data repeatedly during the service life of the liquid container in the line printhead printer.

[0015] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the plurality of connections of the liquid container comprises the sensor connection and the power supply connection formed along a first row, and a plurality of connections, comprising the data connection, are arranged along a second row substantially parallel to the first row, and the distance between the connections in the first row and the connections arranged in the second row is greater than the distance between the connections in the first row.

[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, the sensor connection of the liquid container is arranged in the first row, adjacent to the power supply connection.

[0017] According to another aspect of the invention, the mass connection of the liquid container is arranged in the second row.

[0018] According to another aspect of the present invention, the plurality of connections comprises the sensor connection, the data connection, and the power supply connection arranged in a row.

[0019] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the sensor connection is arranged adjacent to the power supply connection.

[0020] According to another aspect of the invention, the ground connection, the sensor connection and the data connection are arranged between the power supply connection and the ground connection.

[0021] According to another aspect of the invention, the data stored in the memory includes information about the remaining amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir.

[0022] According to another aspect of the invention, the data stored in the memory of the liquid container includes information about the number of printed pages.

[0023] According to a further embodiment, an image recording device is provided with a liquid container as described above and a main body in which the liquid container is arranged, the main body comprising a receiving section in which the liquid container can be installed and a hollow element suitable for being inserted into the liquid container when the liquid container is arranged in the receiving section and a liquid dispensing head that can exchange liquid via the hollow element and is suitable for dispensing liquid coming from the liquid container via the hollow element and a communication section that enables communication between the liquid container in the receiving section and a sensor signal receiving port suitable for enabling an electrical connection with the communication section and a data receiving port.which is suitable for providing an electrical connection to the communication section and a supply voltage, and an electrical supply voltage output terminal suitable for establishing an electrical connection to the power supply. The communication section is suitable for reading data stored in the memory via the data output terminal and the data receive terminal, and is suitable for receiving the signal from the sensor via the sensor signal output terminal and the sensor signal receive terminal.

[0024] According to another aspect of the invention, the memory is suitable for storing data related to the signal, and the communication section is also suitable for determining whether a read error has occurred during the reading of the data and for preventing a write command from being executed if a read error has occurred.

[0025] According to another aspect of the invention, the communication section writes at least one of the data relating to the liquid dispensed by the liquid dispensing printhead during the writing operation and the data relating to the number of pages printed into the memory of the liquid container.

[0026] According to another aspect of the present invention, the communication section receives the signal from the sensor during or shortly after the installation of the liquid container into the recording section of the main body and repeatedly transmits data via the data port during the service life of the liquid container in the image recording device.

[0027] Other objectives, features and advantages will become apparent to the person skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the invention and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0028] For a better understanding of the present invention and the problems and objectives, features and advantages solved by it, reference is made below to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying figures.

[0029] Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an inkjet printer according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0030] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic side view of an internal structure of the printer;

[0031] Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a container according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0032] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic view of the internal structure of a container according to Fig. 3;

[0033] Fig. 5A is a partial cross-section of an area, as in Fig. 4 shown by arrow V, with a hollow tube of the printer not inserted into the plug of the container and the valve of the container in a closed position;

[0034] Fig. Figure 5B shows a partial cross-section of an area, as in Fig. 4 is represented by the arrow V, with the hollow tube of the printer inserted into the plug of the container and the valve of the container in an open position;

[0035] Fig. Figure 6 shows a partial cross-section along a line VI-VI in Fig. 5A;

[0036] Fig. Figure 7 shows connections of the container according to the first embodiment of the invention from one direction of the attached arrow VII in Fig. 4;

[0037] Fig. 8A to Fig. Figure 8C shows schematic plan views of the process for installing the container in the printer;

[0038] Fig. Figure 9 shows a block diagram of an electrical configuration of the container and the printer;

[0039] Fig. Figure 10 shows a function block diagram with sections as they are implemented by a controller of the printer;

[0040] Fig. Figure 11 shows a flowchart of a control process as performed by the printer's controller during the installation of the container in the printer;

[0041] Fig. Figure 12 shows a diagram illustrating the relationship between the position of the container's valve and the output value of a Hall effect sensor in the container;

[0042] Fig. Figure 13 shows the connections of a container according to a second embodiment of the invention;

[0043] Fig. Figure 14 shows the connections of a container according to a third embodiment of the invention;

[0044] Fig. Figure 15 shows the connections of the container according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

[0045] Fig. Figure 16 shows the connections of the container according to a fifth embodiment of the invention;

[0046] Fig. Figure 17 shows the connections of a container according to a sixth embodiment of the invention;

[0047] Fig. Figure 18 shows the connections of a printer according to the first embodiment of the invention and along the insertion direction. Fig. 8A; and

[0048] Fig. Figure 19 shows a partial cross-sectional view along a line XIX-XIX in Fig. 18. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORMS

[0049] The embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0050] With reference to Fig. 1. The general structure of an image recording device, e.g., a high-speed inkjet printer, is described. 1 , according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0051] The printer 1 includes a housing 1a with an essentially rectangular, cuboid shape. A paper output section. 31 is at the top of the case 1a arranged. The housing has three openings in one of its vertically extending outer surfaces. 10d , 10b and 10c open. The openings 10d , 10b and 10c are arranged in this order from top to bottom. A paper feed unit 1b and a container unit 1c are opened 10b or 10c into the case 1a used. The printer 1 includes a flap 1d in the opening 10d, which can be rotated around a horizontal axis at its lower end. When the flap is rotated to open and close, the opening 10d closed or open. The flap 1d is at the level of the transport unit 21 (see Fig. 2) in a first direction, for example in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the vertically extending surfaces of the housing extend 1a extend, arranged.

[0052] In relation to Fig. 2. The internal structure of the printer will be described. 1 described.

[0053] The inside of the case 1a It is divided into sections A, B, and C in that order, vertically from the top. Two printheads. 2 , for example, line printheads for high-speed printing, the transport unit 21 , and a controller 100 are located in section A. The printheads 2are suitable for ejecting, for example, black ink and pretreatment fluid (hereinafter, the black ink and pretreatment fluid are generally referred to as fluid).

[0054] For high-speed inkjet printers, such as line-printed inkjet printers, the humidity inside the printer increases with the number of pages printed per unit of time. This is because the humidity rises due to the rapid drying process of various fluids (e.g., ink, pretreatment fluid, and water as a humidifier) ​​as they are supplied from the fluid reservoirs to the recording medium (e.g., paper). This rapid drying process is necessary in high-speed inkjet printers to ensure a clean writing surface when the printed pages are ejected and stacked. The transport unit 21 is suitable for transporting sheets P. The controller100 is suitable for the operation of the individual components of the printer. 1 to control the paper feed unit. 1b is located in section B. The container unit 1c is located in section C. In the housing 1a A paper transport path is formed along which the paper sheets P are transported, extending from the paper feed unit. 1b to the paper output section 31 extends, as indicated by bold arrows in Fig. 2 is shown.

[0055] The controller 100It comprises a central processing unit (CPU), a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), such as non-volatile RAM, and an interface. The ROM stores programs executable by the CPU and various fixed data. The RAM temporarily stores data, such as image data, as required by the CPU to execute the programs. The controller 100 transmits and receives data to and from a storage device 141 (see Fig. 4) and Hall effect devices 71 of the liquid container 40 and transmits and receives data to and from an external device, e.g., a computer connected to the printer. 1 is connected via an interface.

[0056] The paper feed unit 1b includes a paper feed chute 23 and paper feed rollers 25 The paper feed chute 23is suitable for attaching to a housing in a first direction 1a to be ordered and removed. The paper feed chute. 23 It resembles an open-topped box and is suitable for holding sheets of paper P of different sizes. The paper feed rollers 25 are suitable for placing the topmost of the paper sheets P in the paper feed chute 23 , driven by a paper feed motor 125 (see Fig. 9) controlled and by the controller 100 to be dispensed. The paper sheet P, dispensed by the paper feed roller. 25 , is sent to the transport unit 21 guided and through the tours 27a and 27b guided and through a pair of feed rollers 26 chickened out.

[0057] The conveying unit 21 includes two tape reels 6 and 7 and one around the tape rollers 6 and 7 laid endless conveyor belt 8 The tape reel7 is a drive roller which is located in Fig. 2 rotates clockwise when the axis of the tape roller 7 through a pumping motor 127 (see Fig. 9) from the controller 100 It is controlled and driven. The belt roller 6 is a drive roller that is located in Fig. 2 with the one through the conveyor belt 8 by the rotation of the tape reel 7 The movement caused rotates clockwise.

[0058] In the loop of the conveyor belt 8 is essentially a cuboid-shaped plate 19 arranged, which the printheads 2 opposite. An outer surface 8a of the conveyor belt 8 is in the upper section of the conveyor belt loop of the lower surface 2a the inkjet heads 2 arranged opposite each other and extending parallel to lower surfaces 2a, with a small gap between the lower surfaces 2a and the outer surface 8a results. The plate 19 supports an inner surface of the conveyor belt 8 at an upper section of the loop 8 The lower surface 2a each inkjet printhead 2 corresponds to a drain surface on which a multitude of spray nozzles are formed for spraying ink.

[0059] On the outer surface 8a of the conveyor belt 8 A silicone layer with low adhesion is formed. The paper sheet P, which is fed by the paper feed unit 1b to the conveyor unit 21 The output is made by means of the pressure roller 4 against the outer surface 8a of the conveyor belt 8 Pressed. Held in place by the adhesive properties of the outer surface. 8a, the sheet of paper P is folded in the second direction indicated by the bold arrows into Fig. 2 funded.

[0060] The second direction is parallel to the conveying direction in which the conveying unit moves. 21 The paper sheet P is transported. The first direction is perpendicular to the second direction. Both the first and second directions are horizontal.

[0061] If the sheet of paper P is on the outer surface 8a of the conveyor belt 8 below the inkjet printheads 2 As the inkjet printheads are guided past, they spray the inkjet print heads. 2 , controlled by the controller 100 , immediately remove the black ink or the black ink and pretreatment fluid from the lower surfaces 2a against the upper surface of sheet P, in order to create the desired image on sheet P. A separate plate 5separates the sheet of paper P from the outer surface 8a of the conveyor belt 8 The sheet of paper P is then passed through the separating plate. 5 from the outer surface 8a of the conveyor belt 8 separated and transported upwards while passing through the guides 29a , 29b is guided and by the two pairs of conveyor rollers 28 is seized. The arc P is then opened. 30 at the top of the case 1a on the paper sheet output section 31 issued one roll from each pair of conveyor rollers 28 is powered by a drive motor 128 (see Fig. 9) from the controller 100 controlled, driven.

[0062] The pretreatment fluid has various properties, such as improving the density of the ink applied to the sheet P, preventing smudging or strikethrough (e.g., ink penetrating the paper P to be written on), improving color reproducibility and ensuring rapid drying of the ink, and preventing creases or curls on the paper P after ink has been applied. For example, a fluid containing a polyvalent salt, such as a cationic high polymer or a magnesium salt, can be used as a pretreatment fluid.

[0063] The ink printhead 2 The pretreatment fluid is dispensed upstream of the ink printhead. 2 arranged to dispense the black ink in the direction of transport.

[0064] Each ink printhead 2 This corresponds to a line-type printhead extending in the length of the first direction and has an essentially cuboid shape. The printheads 2 are arranged at a fixed distance in the second direction and are protected by the housing 1a beyond the frame 3 held. A flexible tube is held in place on the upper surface of each inkjet printhead. 2 A connector (not shown) is arranged in the lower surface. 2a of each printhead 2 A multitude of spray nozzles (not shown) are formed within each printhead. 2 An ink path is formed so that ink flows from the respective corresponding ink reservoir. 42 of the container 40 , is routed via a suitable tube and connector to the corresponding spray nozzles. The container unit 1cincludes a container shaft 35 , wherein the container 40 is suitable for use in the container shaft 35 to be arranged. The container 40 includes the reservoirs 42 (see Fig. 4) for storing, for example, black ink and pretreatment fluid. The reservoirs in each of the reservoirs 42 stored liquid of the container 40 is connected to the corresponding printhead 2 via the appropriate flexible tube and connector to the appropriate inkjet printhead 2 supplied.

[0065] The container shaft 35 is removable in the first direction within the housing 1a arranged, wherein the containers 40 in the container shaft 35 are arranged accordingly. The containers can be arranged accordingly. 40 in the container shaft 35 by the user of the printer 1be replaced by a new container when the container shaft 35 from the case 1a is removed.

[0066] Referring to the Fig. 3 to Fig. 7. The construction of the ink reservoir will be described. 40 described.

[0067] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in section 4, the container includes 40 a case 41 , a black ink unit 40B , a pretreatment fluid unit 40P , a storage 141 and a substrate 142 .

[0068] Both the black ink unit 40B and the pretreatment fluid unit 40P The reservoir includes 42 , an ink outlet tube 43 , a plug 50 , a valve 60 and a sensor unit 70 The black ink unit 40B and the pretreatment fluid unit 40Phave the same structure (see Fig. 5).

[0069] As in Fig. 3 shown, the case 41 an essentially cuboid shape. As in Fig. As shown in section 4, the inside of the case is visible. 41 in two chambers 41a and 41b split. The black ink unit 40B and the pretreatment fluid unit 40P are in the chamber 41a arranged. The ink outlet tube 43 the black ink unit 40B and the pretreatment fluid unit 40P are in the chamber 41b arranged.

[0070] Each reservoir 42 corresponds to a bag for storing liquid and has an opening to which one end of the ink outlet tube can be attached. 43 is connected. The reservoir 42 the black ink unit 40Bis suitable for storing black ink. According to one embodiment of the invention, the liquid reservoir is suitable for storing more than 100 milliliters of liquid. The reservoir 42 the pretreatment fluid 40B is suitable for storing pretreatment fluid. According to a further embodiment of the invention, each of the fluid reservoirs is 42 and 40B suitable for storing more than 100 milliliters of liquid. According to another embodiment of the invention, the liquid reservoir is 42 suitable for storing more than 400 milliliters of liquid and the liquid reservoir 40B It is suitable for storing more than 250 milliliters of liquid.

[0071] The ink outlet tube 43 defines an ink outlet path 43a to dispense the liquid that is in the reservoir 42 stored, to the printhead 2 (see Fig. 5A).

[0072] As in Fig. As shown in 4, the other end of the ink outlet tube is located 43 from the case 41 of the container 40 before. The ink outlet tube 43 has an opening 43b on one side, which is the reservoir 42 opposite. A plug. 50 Made of elastic material, e.g. rubber, it is in a compressed state at the other end of the ink outlet tube. 43 arranged so that the plug 51 the opening 43b of the ink outlet path 43a closes (see Fig. 5A). A lid 46 at the other end of the ink outlet tube 43 , essentially has an opening in its middle 46a on. A surface of the plug 50 , which corresponds to the opposite side of a surface that leads to the valve 60 as indicated, is partly due to the opening 46a accessible.

[0073] As in Fig. As shown in 5A, the valve 60 in the ink outlet path 43a arranged and includes an O-ring 61 and a valve body 62 .

[0074] As in the Fig. 5A to Fig. As shown in 6, the valve body corresponds to 62 a cylindrical magnetic body with an axis extending in a second direction. If the container 40 into the case 1a When installed, the first direction is formed along the main direction, the second direction is formed along the second direction, and the third direction is formed along the vertical direction.

[0075] As in Fig. 6 shown, the ink outlet tube 43 an essentially cylindrical shape. The valve body 62 is on a section of the ink outlet tube 43 arranged. The section of the ink outlet tube 43It includes flat lid and base walls and curved side walls. The ink outlet tube section 43 is extended in the cross-section, which extends in one direction perpendicular to the second direction, and in the first direction. Projections 43p are on an inner surface of the corresponding side walls of the ink outlet tube 43 formed in the first direction and point towards the inside of the ink outlet tube 43 every advantage 43p extends along the second direction within an area where the valve body 62 is movable. The valve body 62 is caused by the protrusions 43p and the ceiling and floor walls of the ink outlet tube 43 held in such a way that the valve body 62 essentially in the middle of the ink outlet path 43ais positioned when considering the cross-section. A flow path is created by a gap between the valve body and the valve body. 62 and the ink outlet tube 43 formed in a section where the valve body 62 , the protrusions 63p and the ceiling and floor walls of the ink outlet tube 43 do not contact each other.

[0076] The O-ring 61 It is made of elastic material, for example rubber. The O-ring 61 is attached to a surface of the valve body 62 , which the plug 50 is facing, attached.

[0077] The valve 60 is formed by a narrow section 43x of the ink outlet path 43a through a coil spring 63 against an opening 43y pressed. The coil spring 63 is connected at one end to the end of the ink outlet tube 43it is attached and its other end rests against the other surface of the valve body. 62 in contact.

[0078] As in Fig. Shown in 5A, it includes the ink outlet tube. 43 a valve seat 43z , which is located at the center of the diameter of the ink outlet tube 43 from one end of the narrow section 43x (near the opening 43b (is arranged) protrudes. If the valve 60 is in a closed position, where the valve 60 the ink outlet path 43a When the O-ring closes, it makes contact. 61 the valve seat 43z , to open 43y at one end of the narrow section 43x the ink outlet tube 43 to seal it. In this way, fluid exchange between the reservoir is prevented. 42 and the exterior of the reservoir 42 via the ink outlet path 43aprevented. In this state, the O-ring 61 due to the preload force of the coil spring 63 elastically deformed.

[0079] The sensor unit 70 The Hall device includes 71 and a magnet 72 The magnet generates a magnetic field. The Hall effect sensor 71 is a magnetic sensor that detects a magnetic field of the magnet 72 It detects the magnetic field, converts it into an electrical signal, and generates an electrical signal. In this embodiment, the Hall device generates 71 a signal indicating a voltage proportional to the strength of a magnetic field, which is determined by the movement of the valve body 62 changes.

[0080] The Hall effect device 71 is mounted in a position where it is suitable for the Hall effect device 71 It is possible to control the magnetic field produced by the magnet. 72 and the valve body 62(see Fig. 5A) is generated, to detect.

[0081] As in Fig. 5A shows the Hall effect device 71 and the magnet 72 attached to the lid and the bottom wall in such a way that they face each other in the third direction.

[0082] If the valve 60 When in the closed position, the Hall effect device 71 and the magnet 72 facing each other, whereas otherwise they are facing the valve body 62 enclose between them, e.g. the valve body 62 between the Hall device 71 and the magnet 72 inserted. In this state, the magnet achieves this. 72 The generated magnetic field efficiently powered the Hall device. 71 via the valve body 62 Accordingly, the Hall effect device detects 71 a large magnetic field strength and generates a high-voltage signal.

[0083] While the valve 60 from the closed position (see Fig. 5A) to an open position (see Fig. 5B) moved, at which the valve 60 the ink outlet path 43a When opened, the Hall effect device will be activated. 71 The detected magnetic field was smaller, corresponding to the movement of the valve body. 62 to the position where the valve body 62 not the Hall effect device 71 and the magnet 72 in the vertical direction in between, e.g. the valve body 62 not between the Hall device 71 and the magnet 72 arranged. The voltage of the Hall effect device 71 The generated signal is therefore lower.

[0084] The controller 100 receives a signal from the Hall effect device 71 was generated and determined whether the valve 60is in the closed position or in the open position, based on the Hall effect sensor 71 generated voltage.

[0085] The substrate 142 is on the outer surface of a downstream wall of the housing 41 of the container 40 arranged in a direction in which the container 40 in section C (hereinafter referred to as the insertion direction). The insertion direction is parallel to the first direction of the container. 40 .

[0086] The storage 141 is in relation to the substrate 142 arranged. The storage 141 includes an electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM) or similar and is suitable for storing data from the container 40 to store. In particular, the storage stores 141 a fluid reservoir capacity (a quantity of fluid that can be stored in each reservoir) 42of each brand new container 40 stored), sensor output values ​​(output values ​​Vmax and Vmin, which are generated by each of the Hall devices) 71 were received (see Fig. 12)), a manufacturing date (year, month, and day of manufacture of the container) 40 ). The controller 100 can this data from memory 141 read out while it is in the container 40 to the printer 1 is used. Furthermore, the controller can 100 , while the container is in the printer 1 is used to store various data in memory 141 write, e.g., a fluid utilization quantity (a quantity of fluid that is in each reservoir). 42 was used, e.g., a quantity of liquid that was used by each ink printhead. 2 was ejected), the number of insertion cycles of the hollow tube (the number of times the hollow tube was ejected) 153 into the corresponding plugs 50were inserted), the number of printed pages (the number of paper pages printed using the liquid in the container 40 was stored), and a cumulative usage time (a total time during which the container was stored). 40 in the printer 1 was arranged, which corresponds to the total time during which the hollow tubes 153 in the corresponding ink outlet path 43a are used). The controller 100 can this be stored in memory 141 read written data while the container 40 to the printer 1 is used.

[0087] As in Fig. Figure 7 shows that they are located on a surface of the substrate. 142 eight connections 170c until 177c arranged. The connections 170c until 177c They are essentially the same size and shape and are separated from the outer surface of the container. 40to highlight. The shape of each of the connectors 170c until 177c It is essentially rectangular and comprises two shorter sides extending in one direction parallel to the second direction and two longer sides extending in one direction parallel to the third direction. The connections 170c until 177c are arranged in two rows.

[0088] It is assumed that any distance between the centers of the connections 174c and a corresponding connection 170c until 173c x0, x1, x2 and x3 correspond to each of the shortest distances between the edges of the terminal 174c and the corresponding terminals 170c until 173c y0, y1, y2 and y3 correspond to the connections. 170c until 174c are on the substrate 142arranged such that their arrangement satisfies the equations x1 < x0 < x2 < x3 and y1 < y0 < y2 < y3. xn (n = 0, 1, 2, or 3) corresponds to the distance between the centers of the terminals. 174c and 17nc . yn (n = 0, 1, 2, or 3) corresponds to the shortest distance between the edges of the terminals. 174c and 17nc .

[0089] As in Fig. Shown in 9 is the sensor signal output connector (SB) 170c electrically with the Hall sensor 71 the black ink unit 40B connected. The sensor signal output connector (SB) 171c is electrically connected to the Hall sensor 71 the pretreatment fluid unit 40P connected. The data output terminal (DO) 172c and the data input port (DI) 173c is electrically connected to the storage unit 141 connected. The ground connections (G) 175c , 176c , 177c are electrically connected to the storage system 141connected, the Hall device 71 the pretreatment fluid unit 40P , and the Hall effect device 71 the black ink unit 40B are equivalent to.

[0090] A substrate 182 is located on a surface of the wall that extends in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction (main direction) and is one of the walls belonging to section C of the housing 1a of the printer 1 , as in Fig. 8A shown, determine.

[0091] The substrate 182 is essentially the same size as the substrate 142 The substrate 182 is arranged in such a way as to provide the substrate 142 of the container 40 to be facing the container 40 in the previously defined section in section C (see Fig. 8B). A basic material 201 is on a surface of the substrate 182 , as in the Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 shown, arranged. Eight connections 170p until 177p are on a surface of the base material 201 arranged in such a way that the connections 170p until 177p the connections 170c until 177c are equivalent to.

[0092] As in Fig. Shown in 19, each of the connections 170p until 177p manufactured from a leaf spring with an essentially C-shaped cross-section, with a first end 205 , a second end 203 and an upper section 202 . In each of the connections 170p until 177p corresponds to the first end 205 a fixed end that is attached to the substrate 182 is attached to make an electrical contact, and the second end 203 corresponds to a free end that is attached to a section 204 can be bent. The second end 203extends in the main direction and in one direction such that the second end 203 the connections 170c until 177c of the container 40 , reached in the previously determined position of section C.

[0093] The connections 170p until 177p are mirror images of the connections 170c until 177c arranged so that the terminals 170p until 177p the connections 170c until 177c contact us if the container 40 is inserted in the previously specified position in section C.

[0094] In particular, the connections 170p until 177p arranged such that their upper sections 202 the corresponding connections 170c until 177c contact in the middle when the container 40 is inserted in the previously specified position of section C.

[0095] As in Fig. Shown in 9 are the sensor signal reception connector (SB) 170p , the sensor signal output connector (SP) 171p , the data reception connection (DO) 172p , and the data transmission interface (DI) 173p electrically with the controller 100 connected. The electrical power output connection (V) 174p is electrically connected to the power supply 158 connected. The ground connections 175p , 176p , 177p are grounded. The supply voltage 158 is inside the case 1a provided.

[0096] Referring to the Fig. 5A to Fig. 12, Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 describes the insertion process of the container. 40 to the printer 1 described. The shaft 35 is for simplification in the Fig. 8A to Fig. 8C not shown. Fig. Figure 9 shows the electrical supply voltage lines as thick lines and the signal lines as thin lines.

[0097] If the container 40 from the printer 1 When separated, the hollow tubes are 153 of the printer 1 not into the corresponding plugs 50 the black ink unit 40B and the pretreatment fluid unit 40P installed. The valves 60 are therefore held in open positions (see Fig. 5A). In this state, there is no electrical connection between the terminals. 170c until 177c and the corresponding connections 170p until 177p manufactured. Therefore, the Hall effect devices are 171 or the storage 141 not supplied with power and the controller 100 Signal transmission or reception is not possible with the Hall devices. 71 and the storage 141carry out.

[0098] To insert the container 40 to the printer 1 will the container 40 first into the shaft 35 (see Fig. 2) inserted and the shaft 35 is placed in section C of the housing 1a in the main direction (in the direction indicated by the open arrow in Fig. 8A is shown, inserted), so that the connections 170c until 177c of the container 40 in contact with the relevant connections 170p until 177p of the case 1a , as in Fig. 8B shown, get in touch.

[0099] In the state shown in Fig. B, the central areas of the connections 170c until 177c in contact with the lid sections 202 the corresponding connections 170p until 177pto establish an electrical connection between them. The electrical power is therefore determined by the supply voltage. 158 to the Hall effect devices 71 and the storage 141 via the connections 174p and 174c transferred. The controller 100 Therefore, signals from the Hall effect device can be used. 71 , the black ink unit 40B via the terminals 170c and 170p It can also receive signals from the Hall effect device. 71 from the pretreatment fluid unit 40P via the terminals 171c and 171p received data from the storage 141 via the terminals 172c and 172p read data and store it in memory 141 via the terminals 173c and 173p write.

[0100] In the process of inserting the container 40 to the printer 1First contact the central areas of the connections 170c until 177c , the upper sections 202 the corresponding connections 170p until 177p before the container 40 is completely installed in the printer. Until the container 40 completely in the printer 1 Once installed, the connections press 170c until 177c the corresponding connections 170p until 177p into the state of the connections 170p until 177p from a state like the one shown with the solid line, to a state like the one in Fig. 19 is represented by a dashed line. That is, the connections 170p until 177p bend at their sections 204 in the main direction and in a direction where the second ends 203 from the connections 170c until 177c of the container 40The connections, which are installed at a predetermined position in section C, are spaced apart. 170c until 177c show contact sections (indicated by dotted and dashed lines in Fig. 7 shown), which are the upper sections 202 the corresponding connections 170p until 177p contact after the container 40 completely into the printer 1 is installed. The contact sections comprise the central areas of the connections. 170c until 177c Accordingly. The contact sections in the connectors 175c , 170c , 171c , 174 are in the upper row in a stepped manner in the vertical direction from a position slightly below the one in Fig. The 7 contact sections shown were moved and the contact sections were moved into the terminals. 176c , 173c , 172c , 177cIn the lower row, the steps are arranged vertically from a position slightly above the one in Fig. The 7 contact areas shown were shifted downwards during a period of time from just before to just after the container 40 completely into the printer 1 was used.

[0101] A bearing element 154 is arranged on a wall that extends in one direction perpendicular to the second direction, which is the lids 46 of the container 40 opposite, when the container 40 is installed in the previously specified position in section C, this wall being a wall that defines section C of the enclosure 1a defined. The bearing element 154 is in the second direction with regard to the case 1a movable and supports the hollow tubes 153 The hollow tubes 153 correspond to the ink printhead 2for ejecting the black ink and the printhead 2 for expelling the pretreatment fluid. The hollow tubes 153 can be connected to the corresponding printheads using the appropriate flexible tubes. 2 Replace fluid.

[0102] In the state as in Fig. As shown in 8B, the container 40 from the hollow tubes 152 separated, so that the reservoirs 42 no liquid with the corresponding flow paths of the corresponding ink printheads 2 can exchange.

[0103] The printer 1 includes an insertion detection switch 159 , which is suitable for inserting the container 40 in the previously specified position in section C (see Fig. 9) to detect.

[0104] The insertion detection switch 159includes a projection on the wall that extends in the direction perpendicular to the insertion direction and which corresponds to a wall that forms section C of the housing 1a defined. The protrusion is, for example, near the substrate. 182 for example, arranged. Before the container 40 When installed in section C, the protrusion extends from the wall. If the container 40 is inserted into section C and at the in Fig. When placed in the position shown in 8B, the protrusion extends by pressing the casing. 41 of the container 40 back into the wall. The insertion detection switch 159 is suitable for outputting OFF signals when the protrusion protrudes from the wall and ON signals when the protrusion retracts into the wall.

[0105] The controller 100 determined whether the container 40is inserted in the previously specified position in section C, based on a signal from the installation detection switch 159 (S1 in Fig. 11 (S stands for a step in the following) is received. If the controller 100 detected that the container 40 in the previously defined position in section C by receiving an ON signal from the installation detection switch 159 (S1: YES) is installed, the controller 100 the time also the container 40 is installed in the previously defined section (insertion time) (S2) and reads from the memory 141 of the container 40 the data of the liquid reservoir capacity, the sensor output values, the manufacturing date, the amounts of liquid used, the number of insertions of the hollow tube, the number of pages printed and the cumulative service life (S3).

[0106] After S3, the controller determines 100 , whether a read error occurred (S4). If the controller 100 The controller determines that it could not perform the reading process normally. 100 , that a read error has occurred (S4: YES) and displays the error via an output device 160 , for example, a display or a speaker of the printer 1 on (S5) (see Fig. 9) After S5, the controller stops. 100 the operation of all printer components 1 (S6).

[0107] A read error can occur due to damage to the memory. 141 for example by a short circuit between the connection 172c , the connection 174c or due to a malfunction of the controller's communication capabilities 100 due to a short circuit between the connection 173c and the connection 174c appear.

[0108] If the controller 100The controller determines that it cannot perform the read operation in S4 normally. 100 that no read error occurred (S4: NO). The controller 100 then controls a movement mechanism 155 (see Fig. 9), to the bearing element 154 , that the hollow tubes 153 stops moving in the second direction (a direction that is in Fig. 8C is indicated by a thick arrow).

[0109] According to the movement of the hollow tubes 153 in S7, penetrates the hollow tube 153 essentially the central area of ​​the corresponding plug 50 about the openings 46a in the main direction, as in Fig. 5B shown.

[0110] Every hollow tube 153 has an opening 153b at one end. In this state, the opening is 153b then in the ink output path 43b arranged so that a flow path 153ain the hollow tube 153 is intended and the ink outlet path 43a can be accessed via the opening 153b Replace the fluid. The plug. 50 is through the penetration of the hollow tube 153 pierced with a hole. A section that fits the hole of the plug. 50 surrounds, contacts the circumference of the hollow tube 153 due to the elasticity of the plug 50 very tightly sealed. In this way, any leakage of liquid from a gap between the hole and the plug is prevented. 50 and the hollow tube 153 avoided.

[0111] Then one end of the hollow tube makes contact. 153 the valve body 62 and the valve body 62 moves together with the O-ring 61 by further inserting the hollow tube 153 in the ink output path 43a The O-ring 61 is therefore from the valve seat 43z separate (see Fig. 5B), and the valve 60 changes from an open to a closed position.

[0112] If the valve 60 When in the open position, fluid exchange can occur between the reservoir and the reservoir. 42 and the exterior of the reservoir 42 via the ink outlet path 43a be made possible. That is, as in Fig. 5B shown when the hollow tube 153 the plug 50 penetrates and the valve 60 is open, a difference can be made between the reservoir 42 and the flow path of the printhead 2 via the ink outlet path 43a and the flow path 153a Fluid needs to be replaced.

[0113] After S7, the controller receives 100 Signals from the Hall effect device 71 the black ink unit 40B and the pretreatment fluid unit 40P (S8). According to S8, the controller determines 100, whether the valves 60 the black ink unit 40B and the pretreatment fluid unit 40P are in an open position, i.e., the reservoirs 42 and the corresponding printheads 2 They can exchange liquid with each other, and it is made possible for liquid to flow from the reservoirs. 42 to the corresponding printheads 2 via the corresponding hollow tubes 153 based on the signals received in S8 and the output values ​​Vmax and Vmin as they are stored in the memory 141 Data read from S3 (S9) can flow. The investigation in S9 is enabled as described below.

[0114] Fig. Figure 12 shows a diagram of the relationship between the position of the valve. 60 and an output value of the Hall effect device 71 The horizontal axis shows the position of the valve. 60in the first direction. The vertical axis shows the output values ​​of the Hall effect device. 71 Vmax corresponds to an output value of the Hall effect device. 71 , to which a predetermined operating voltage is applied when the valve 60 is in a closed position, as in Fig. 5A is shown. Vmin corresponds to an output value of the Hall effect device. 71 , to which a predetermined voltage is applied when the valve 60 is in an open position, as in Fig. Figure 5B shows that a threshold value Vt (e.g., Vt = (Vmax + Vmin) / 2) is set based on the output values ​​Vmax and Vmin as provided by the controller. 100 were read out in S3. If the output value of the Hall effect sensor 71 The controller determines whether the value obtained in S8 is less than or equal to the threshold Vt. 100 that the valve 60is in the open position. If the output value of the Hall effect device 71 The controller determines whether the value received in S8 is greater than the threshold Vt. 100 that the valve 60 is in the closed position.

[0115] When a predetermined time has passed and the valves have closed 60 the black ink unit 40B and the pretreatment fluid unit 40P not in open position (S10: YES), the controller 100 a fault is detected (S5) and the controller 100 The operation of all printer components is terminated. 1 (S6).

[0116] This open error can be caused by a defect in the Hall effect sensor. 71 the black ink unit 40B due to a short circuit between the connection 170c and the connection 174c occur due to a defect in the Hall effect device 71, the pretreatment fluid unit 40P , due to a short circuit between the connection 171a and the connection 174c due to a malfunction in the controller's communication capabilities caused by a short circuit between the connection 173c and the connection 174c , or due to a defect in the plugs 50 or the valves 60 of the container 40 , or the hollow tube 153 or the movement mechanism 155 of the printer 1 .

[0117] If the controller 100 determined that the valves 60 the black ink unit 40B and the pretreatment fluid unit 40P are in an open position (S9: YES), the controller writes 100 the value obtained by adding 1 (one) to the number of insertion operations read out in S3 (S11), into the memory 144The controller 100 It then determines whether a write command has been received from the external device (S12).

[0118] If the controller 100 Determined that the write command was received (S12: YES), the controller executes 100 Writing on a single sheet of paper P is achieved by controlling the paper feed motor. 125 , of the transport engine 127 , of the output engine 128 and the printheads 2 through (S13). According to S14, the controller calculates 100 the amount of fluid currently used for a page, e.g. the consumption of black ink and the consumption of pretreatment fluid that was dispensed onto the side of the printed paper P during the current writing process (S11).

[0119] After S14 the controller writes 100 the data on the consumed black ink and pretreatment fluid in the memory 141(the total amount of liquid consumed so far in the respective reservoirs 42 , since the container 40 was used in a completely new way, e.g. the value obtained when the value of the liquid currently consumed for one side of the paper P, as obtained in S14, is added to the amount of liquid consumed with reference to black ink and pretreatment liquid obtained in S3) and the value of the number of printed pages (the number of pages P that were printed with the container 40 have been printed since the container 40 was used in a completely new way, e.g. the value obtained by adding 1 (one) to the number of printed pages as read from S3) (S15). From, for example Fig. Paragraph 11 shows that the sensor signal in step S8 is only read during or shortly after the insertion of the container, while the controller repeatedly writes the data to or reads it from memory throughout the entire operation.

[0120] According to S12, the controller determines 100 , whether a write error occurred (S16). If the controller 100 The controller determines that it could not perform the writing process normally. 100 that a typing error occurred (S16: YES). The controller 100 reports the error (S5) and terminates the operation of old printer components. 1 (S6).

[0121] The writing error may be due to a defect in the memory. 141 due to a short circuit between the connection 172c and the connection 174c occur or due to a malfunction in the printer's communication 1due to a short circuit between the terminals 173c and the connection 174c .

[0122] If the controller 100 The controller determines that the writing process could be carried out normally. 100 , that no write error has occurred (S16: NO) and determines whether the write command contains data from the next page, based on the image data in the write command as obtained in S12 (S17).

[0123] If the recording command includes data from a next page (S17: YES), the controller 100 The controller returns to routine S13 and completes process steps S13 to S16. If the write command does not include data from the next page (S17: NO), the controller proceeds. 100 return to step S12 and wait until the controller 100 Determined that a write command was received.

[0124] The printer 1includes a locking mechanism (not shown) to close the container 40 to close in a predetermined position. If the controller 100 determined that the container 40 The controller, which was installed in the previously defined position in section C (S1: YES), operates 100 the closure mechanism simultaneously with process step S2, e.g. to close the container 40 together with the shaft 35 to close the previously determined position.

[0125] To the container 40 from the printer 1 To remove it, a trigger button is pressed. If the controller 100 The controller detects when the trigger button is pressed and controls the action. 100 the movement mechanism 155 (see Fig. 9), to secure the retaining element 154 opposite the direction shown by the bold arrow (see Fig. 8C) to move. The retaining element 154moves from the in Fig. 8C's position is shown in relation to the one in Fig. Position shown in 8B. At the same time, along with the movement in the hollow tube. 153 , to the left in Fig. 5B in each of the black ink units 40B and the pretreatment fluid 40P does the valve move 60 , also in Fig. 5B, to the left and contacts the valve seat 43z through the force of the coil spring 63 That is, the valve 60 changes from the open position to the closed position. If the output values ​​of the Hall effect device 71 If the threshold value Vt is exceeded, the controller determines 100 in each of the black ink units 40B and the pretreatment fluid 40P that the valves 60are in an open position and determines the current usage time (the time span between the installation time and the removal time to which the controller is located). 100 determined that the valves 60 (in closed position) based on the installation time stored in S2 and the removal time. The controller 100 writes the value obtained by adding the cumulative usage time, as read from S3, to the current usage time into memory. 141 (e.g. the total service life during which the container 40 in the printer 1 was installed since the container 40 (was newly installed). Then the hollow tube 35 out of the plug 50 It was pulled out. At this time, the hole that had formed in the plug was... 50formed by the hollow tube, smaller because of the elasticity of the section surrounding the hole, so that liquid could not escape from the gap between the hole of the plug. 50 and the hollow tube 153 is prevented.

[0126] The controller 100 then operates the locking mechanism to close the container 40 to solve. The shaft 35 can then be removed from section C. If the shaft 35 from section C, the substrate 142 of the container 40 from the substrate 182 of the printer 1 removed. Therefore, the electrical connections between the terminals are severed. 170c until 177c and the corresponding connections 170p until 177p , and the Hall effect devices 71 and the storage 141 are no longer supplied with power. Accordingly, the controller 100unable to receive signals from the Hall effect devices 71 and the storage 141 to transmit or receive.

[0127] The controller 100 This causes a display to show the remaining amount of liquid in each reservoir. 42 on a display of the printer 1 as output device 160 to indicate how it is stored as a reduced amount of fluid in S15. 141 was written.

[0128] The controller 100 includes a communication section to enable communication with the container 40 , which is installed in section C, to perform as described Fig. 10 shown and includes each section, according to the sequence, as in Fig. 11 shown.

[0129] A container installation detection section M1 enables the execution of step S1. A read section M2 enables the execution of step S3. A read error detection section M3 enables the execution of step S4. A display control section M4 enables the execution of step S5. A non-write section M5 enables the execution of step S6. A motion control section M6 enables the execution of step S7. A receive section M7 enables the execution of step S8. A receive error detection section M8 enables the execution of steps S9 and S10. A write section M9 enables the execution of step S11. A write error detection section M10 enables the execution of step S16. A write control section M11 enables the execution of step S13. A fluid exchange detection section M12 enables the execution of step S9.

[0130] Regarding the Fig. 13 to Fig. Section 17 describes embodiments two to six of the invention. The printer and container of embodiments two to six of the invention have essentially the same structure as the printer. 1 and the container 40 the first embodiment of the invention, with the exception of the arrangement or structure of the connections on the containers and the housings of the printers.

[0131] Compared to the container 40 the first embodiment, as in Fig. As shown in section 7, the container includes 40 , according to the second embodiment, connections 170c , 171c , 172c , 173c , 174c , 175c , 177c , as in Fig. 13 shown, for example the ground connection 176c from the container 40 omitted.

[0132] Compared to the container 40 , according to the first embodiment, as in Fig. As shown in section 7, the container includes 40 , according to the third embodiment, connections 170c , 171c , 172c , 173c , 174c , 177c , as in Fig. 14 shown, e.g. the ground connections 175c and 176c from the container 40 omitted.

[0133] Compared to the container 40 , according to the first embodiment, as in Fig. As shown in section 7, the container includes 40 , according to the fourth embodiment, connections 170c until 177c , as in Fig. 15 shown. The data output port 172c of the container 40 , according to the fourth embodiment, has an L-shaped, extending section 172c1 up. The extending section 172c1 extends from one end to the connection 171c it bends and then extends to the power input terminal 174c .

[0134] Compared to the container 40 , according to the first embodiment, as in Fig. As shown in section 7, the container includes 40 , according to the fifth embodiment, connections 170c , 171c , 174 , 176c , 177c , and a data input / output port 574c , as in Fig. Shown in section 16. The data input / output port. 174c indicates the functions of the data output port 172c and the data input port 173c open. The ground connection 175c is from the container 40 The connections were omitted. 170c , 171c , 174c , 176c , 177c , 574c are arranged in two rows, each with three connections. The substrate 542 of the container 40 , according to the fifth embodiment of the invention, is narrower than the substrate 142 of the container 40 of the first embodiment of the invention.

[0135] It is assumed that any distance between the central areas of the connections 174c and the corresponding connection 170c , 171c , 574c x0, x1, x4 corresponds to each shortest distance between the edges of the connector 174c and the corresponding connection 170c , 171c , 574c y0, y1, y4 correspond to the connections. 174c , 170c , 171c , 574c are thus on the substrate 142 The positions are arranged so that the relationship between them satisfies the equations x1 < x0 < x4 and y1 < y0 < y4. xn (n = 0 or 1) corresponds to the distance between the centers of the terminals. 174c and 17nc .yn (n = 0 or 1) corresponds to the shortest distance between the edges of the terminals 174c and 17nc . y4 corresponds to the distance between the edges of the connector. 574c and the connection 174c .

[0136] In comparison to the container40 , according to the first embodiment, as in Fig. As shown in section 7, the container includes 40 , according to the seventh embodiment, the connections 170c until 175c , arranged in a row, as in Fig. 17 shown. The ground connections 176c and 177c are omitted, and the container 40 The sixth embodiment of the invention has a lower height and a greater width than the substrate. 142 of the container 40 of the first embodiment.

[0137] In each of the second to sixth embodiments of the invention, the connections and the substrates are on the housing 1a of the printer 1 suitable for connecting elements and substrates on the container 40 to comply.

[0138] As described above, according to the first to sixth embodiments of the invention, the distance between the data output port is 172c(Data input / output port) 574c in the fifth embodiment) and the electrical power input connection 174c greater than the distance between the electrical power input terminal 174c and the corresponding sensor signal output connections 170c and 171c .

[0139] In the fourth embodiment, the distance between a special terminal and the corresponding special terminal is determined without regard to the extending section. 172c1 taking into account, which has no possibility of accessing any of the case's connections. 1a to contact, even if the container 40 It is inserted in the previously determined position. The extending section 172c1 of the connection 172cis not a main section of a connection according to the invention. A main section of each connection of the container corresponds to a section that has the possibility of a corresponding connection. 1a to contact. In the first, second, third, fifth, and sixth embodiments, the main section corresponds to the entire section of each connection. In the fourth embodiment, the main section corresponds to the entire section of each terminal except for terminal 1. 172c , and corresponds to a section of the connection 172c with the exception of the extending section 172c1 .

[0140] In the first to sixth embodiments, the shortest distance between the edges of the main section of a specific connector and the corresponding main connector of the specific connector, and any distance between the centers of the main section of a specific connector and the corresponding main connector of the specific connector on each substrate, is 142 , 542 , 642 , as described above.

[0141] In the first to fifth embodiments, the main sections of the connections are in a matrix in the second and third directions of each substrate. 142 , 542 arranged. The sensor signal output connections 170c , 171c and the electrical power input connection 174c They are arranged in this order in the second direction, so that their main sections are adjacent to each other. The data output port 172c (the data input / output port)574c in the fifth embodiment) and the electrical power input connection 174c are arranged in such a way that their main sections are not adjacent to each other, neither in the second direction nor in the third direction, i.e. their main sections are arranged obliquely to each other.

[0142] In the first to fourth embodiments, the substrate 142 areas 161 until 168 , which are arranged in a matrix with rows and columns in the second and third directions. The substrate 542 has areas 561 until 566 , which are arranged in a matrix with rows and columns in the second and third directions. The container's connections 40 are arranged in such a way that each connection is in the center of the corresponding area 161 until 168 contains. The area 164 , on which the electrical power supply connection 174cis arranged in its center, the area 163 , on which the sensor signal output connector 171c is located in the middle, and the area 162 , on which the electrical power input connection 174c Those arranged in the middle are arranged adjacent to each other in the second direction, in this order. The area 164 and the area 167 , in the middle of which the data output port 172 The elements are arranged such that they are not adjacent to each other, neither in the second nor in the third direction; that is, they are arranged obliquely to each other. In the fifth embodiment, the substrate has 542 areas 561 until 566 on, which are arranged in a matrix, with rows and columns in the second and third directions. The container's connections 40 are arranged in such a way that each connection is in the center of the corresponding area561 until 566 contains. The area 563 , on which the electrical power input connection 174c is arranged the area 562 , on which the sensor signal output terminal 171c is located in the middle, and the area 561 , on which the electrical power input terminal 174c Those arranged in the middle are arranged adjacent to each other in the second direction, in this order. The area 563 and the area 565 , on which the data input / output terminal 574c The elements located in the middle are arranged in such a way that they are not adjacent to each other, neither in the second nor in the third direction, i.e., they are arranged obliquely to each other.

[0143] According to the sixth embodiment, the main section of the connections is on the substrate in the second direction. 642 arranged. The sensor signal output connections 170c and171c and the electrical power input connection 174c They are arranged in this order in the second direction, so that their main sections are adjacent to each other. The data output port 172c and the electrical power input connection 174c are arranged in such a way that their main sections are not adjacent to each other, in the second direction, i.e., another connection is between the data output port. 172c and the electrical power input connection 174c arranged.

[0144] The substrate 42 indicates areas 661 until 666 which are arranged in a row in the second direction. The connections of the container. 40 are arranged in such a way that each connection is at the center of the corresponding area 661 until 666 encompasses the area 666 , on which the electrical power input connection 174cis arranged in the middle, the area 665 , on which the data output port 171 is located in the middle, and the area 664 , on which the data output port 170 Those arranged in the middle are arranged adjacent to each other in the second direction, in this order. The area 666 and the area 663 , on which the data output port 172c The areas arranged in the middle are positioned in such a way that they are not adjacent to each other in the second direction, i.e., another surface is between the areas. 666 and the area 663 arranged.

[0145] In the first to sixth embodiments, the influence of a short circuit can be prevented by the special spatial arrangement of the terminals, as described above.

[0146] The storage 141is suitable for storing data relating to signals from the Hall effect devices 71 (the initial values ​​Vmax and Vmin of the Hall device 71 ) refer to and those used to determine the positions (open or closed) of the valves 60 can be used (to determine whether fluid exchange between the printheads has been achieved). 2 and the corresponding reservoirs 42 Accordingly, if either the memory 141 or the Hall effect devices 71 are destroyed due to a short circuit, while the container 40 The controller was used in section C (before the write control was started). 100 cannot determine whether the printheads 2 and the corresponding reservoirs 42 They can exchange fluids with each other. The controller 100Therefore, it cannot perform write control. In contrast to the case where the Hall effect device... 71 was destroyed when the memory 141 If the memory was destroyed due to a short circuit, more inconvenient situations can arise in addition to the problem mentioned above. For example, a manufacturer might not be able to provide timely service to the user based on the data stored in the memory. 141 The storage and provision of data is handled by the manufacturer. The manufacturer tracks the duration of each reservoir's use. 42 of the container 40 , to ensure fluidity according to the cumulative usage time and the number of pages written, as stored in the memory 141 The data stored is to be made available. Recording the container's condition allows the manufacturer to provide a new container. 40 to provide the reservoirs at the time they are expected to be depleted. However, if the storage 141If the damage is done, the manufacturer cannot provide this service in time.

[0147] The recovery efficiency of the container 40 This may be reduced if the container 40 based on the data in the memory 141 The stored data is recycled. For example, it cannot be determined whether the lifespan of each of the plugs is exceeded. 50 of the container 40 within the usable time, if the number of insertions of the hollow tube that are in the storage 141 They were stored, but have been lost. A plug. 50 It then needs to be replaced unnecessarily with a new one, even if its lifespan is within the maximum service life.

[0148] The manufacturer can then offer the user the service based on the data stored in the memory. 141Do not charge for stored data, e.g., the amount of liquid consumed and / or the number of pages printed.

[0149] According to the first to sixth embodiments, the protection of the memory is 141 more important than the protection of the Hall effect devices 71 for which the connection arrangement was specified above. Accordingly, the effect of a short circuit can prevent such unfortunate situations mentioned above.

[0150] The controller 100 from the printer 1 writes the amount of liquid used and the number of pages printed to the memory. 144 (S15) and determines whether an error occurred in writing the data to the memory during the period between printing one page (S13) and printing the next page (S13). 141 (S16) occurs. Therefore, if due to a short circuit between the data output port 172c (the data input / output port)574c ) in the fifth embodiment and the electrical power input connection 174c , during printing a page, the memory 141 The controller determines when it is destroyed. 100 , that a write error has occurred (S16: YES) and displays the error to prevent further writing (S5) and terminates the operation of all printer components. 1 (S6).

[0151] On the other hand, the controller 100 Error detection is performed if, in the period between writing one page (S13) and writing the next page (S13), signals from the Hall devices are received. 71 receives. Therefore, regardless of whether one or both Hall effect devices are used. 71 due to a short circuit between the electrical input terminal 174c and the sensor signal output connector 170c and / or between the electrical power input terminal 174cand the sensor signal output connector 171c If this occurs, the controller 100 continue with the writing process.

[0152] This means that the writing process can continue even if one or both of the Hall effect devices fail. 71 , during the execution of the write command, may be damaged, although the write operation will not continue if the memory 141 , is damaged during the execution of the write control.

[0153] The arrangement of the connections described above in the first to sixth embodiments ensures the protection of the memory. 141 more important than the protection of the Hall effect devices 71 . Accordingly, the influence of a short circuit on the writing operation can be prevented.

[0154] The connections of the container 40 and the housing connections 1aare usually designed so that their surface centers contact each other (the centers of the container connections). 40 (They therefore have contact sections). The influence of foreign material adhering to the contact sections (e.g., foreign material that gets between the container connection) 40 and the connection of the housing 1a (is trapped) on a short circuit, can therefore be efficiently prevented by the arrangement with reference to each distance between the centers of the contact sections of the respective terminals.

[0155] As described above, the distance between the data input port in embodiments one to four and six is 173c and the electrical power input connection 174c greater than the distance between the data output port 172c and the electrical power input connection 174c(This applies to both, the distance between the centers of the surfaces of the connections and the shortest distance between the edges of the connections).

[0156] The storage 141 can be caused by a short circuit between the data output port 172c and the electrical power input connection 174c be damaged. The controller 100 can be damaged if there is a short circuit between the data input port 173c and the electrical power input connection 174c occurs. Replacing the controller 100 is more expensive than replacing the memory. 141 The controller 100 It is therefore protected from being destroyed by choosing the position of the connections as described above, in order to reduce the cost of replacing components due to a short circuit.

[0157] According to the fifth embodiment, the data input / output port operates 574cThis allows for both data output and data input connections. This simplifies the configuration of the connections and the wiring on the substrate.

[0158] Although the invention has been described with the aid of specific embodiments of the invention, it is clear to a person skilled in the art that variations and modifications of the embodiments described above are possible without deviating from the scope of the invention.

[0159] The connections of the liquid container can be modified as described below. The connections can be arranged separately on a variety of substrates. The shape of the connections is not limited to a rectangle; any shape, e.g., a circle, is possible. The connections can be arranged at any distance from each other. Although the connections of the embodiments described above are arranged on a surface that extends in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction of the container. 40The connections can also be located on a different surface, e.g., a surface extending parallel to the insertion direction. The number of sensor signal input connections can be varied according to the number of sensors provided. Any number of ground connections can be provided, or conversely, the ground connections can be omitted. The electrical voltage input connection can be electrically connected to at least the sensor or the memory to transfer electrical power to at least the sensor or the memory; e.g., electrical power can be supplied to the memory via the data input connection. At least one electrical voltage input connection is provided. Two or more electrical voltage input connections are still acceptable if the relationship between the electrical power input connections satisfies the spacing requirements.The connections can be arranged such that their positional relationships satisfy at least one of the spacing conditions: the distances between the centers of the connection surfaces and the shortest distance between the edges of the connections. The arrangement or size can be terminated when its positional relationship satisfies the spacing conditions. For example, in . Fig. 7 can determine the position of the data input port. 173c and the data output port 172c The sensor signal output connector can be replaced. 170c and the sensor signal output connector 171c They can also be replaced. The electrical power input connection 174c can be placed in the upper right corner, the upper left corner, or the lower left corner on the substrate 142The connections can be arranged in a specific order or in a position other than at the corners. The number of rows of connections and the number of connections in each row can be arbitrarily determined. The connections can also be arranged in a circle or randomly.

[0160] The ports on the printer housing can be modified as described below. The ports can be essentially the same size as, or larger than, the ports on the fluid reservoir. The number of ports may also differ from the number on the fluid reservoir. The arrangement of the ports may also partially differ from the arrangement on the fluid reservoir. For example, the ports on the fluid reservoir may be arranged in two rows of three ports each, as shown in Fig.Figure 14 shows that the housing ports can be arranged in two rows of four ports each. In this case, some of the housing ports will not make contact with the ports on the fluid reservoir. Similarly, the number of ports on the fluid reservoir may not equal the number of ports on the housing, and the arrangement of the ports on the fluid reservoir may also partially differ from the arrangement of the ports on the housing. In this case, some of the ports on the fluid reservoir will not make contact with the ports on the housing. The ports may be designed as leaf springs (extending in one direction so that they make contact with the ports on the fluid reservoir by their preload) or may be made of a different material.The housing connections and the liquid container connections may also be shaped such that the housing connections contact the corresponding liquid container connections on sections that are not located in the center of the surface, provided that their positional relationship nevertheless satisfies the spacing requirements with respect to the contact sections.

[0161] The design of the liquid container can also be modified, as described below. The sensors are not magnetic sensors, such as Hall effect sensors. 71Limited. Other types of sensors can also be used, e.g., reflection or transmission photosensors, or mechanical sensors to detect or not detect contact, depending on whether an object is present or not. At least one of these sensors should be located in the liquid container. The liquid container can only hold one type of liquid, although the liquid container 40, according to the embodiments described above, for storing two liquids (e.g., black ink and pretreatment fluid). The data to be stored in the memory is not limited to the specified data. The memory can also store data indicating the initial values ​​and the remaining amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir, instead of the initial values ​​and the remaining amount of liquid in the reservoirs themselves, as data related to the signals generated by the sensors and the remaining amount of liquid in the reservoir. The design, e.g., shapes or arrangements of the components of the liquid container, e.g., the housing, is described. 41 , the reservoirs 42 , the ink output tubes 43 , the connections 50 , the valves 60 , the sensor units 70 , the storage 141 and the substrate 142The design can be modified as needed, and further components can be added to the liquid container, or some of the components can be partially omitted from the liquid container without deviating from the scope of the invention.

[0162] The control system, located in the main body of the image recording device, can be modified as described below. The operation of each component (e.g., the printhead spray sequences) can be stopped without generating an error message. The point in time at which signal transmission and reception become possible between the liquid reservoir and the image recording device, or the point in time at which electrical voltage can be supplied from the image recording device to the liquid reservoir, is not limited to the point in time described above. These points in time can be changed arbitrarily. In the embodiments described above, the installation detection switch corresponds to... 59a mechanical sensor used as an installation detection section to detect the installation of the liquid container within the installation section. This sensor type is not limited to these specific embodiments and can also be a photosensor or a switch suitable for outputting an ON signal when electrical connections are established between the image recording device and the liquid container. The writing of data by the write section and the detection of the presence or absence of an error by the write error detection section can also be performed before a write command is received from the external device. The times at which each section implements the functions, e.g.,The timing of when the read section reads data stored in the liquid container's memory, or when the write section writes data to the liquid container's memory, or when the receive section receives signals from the sensors, or when the write error detection section determines the presence or absence of a write error, or when the receive error detection section determines the presence or absence of a receive error, and when the movement section moves the hollow elements, can also be arbitrarily changed without deviating from the scope of the invention.

[0163] The hollow elements may have pointed front ends, like needles.

[0164] The liquid stored in the reservoir is not limited to ink or a pretreatment fluid. For example, it could also be a post-treatment fluid applied to the recording medium to improve the quality of the recorded image, or a cleaning fluid for cleaning the conveyor belt.

[0165] At least one liquid container is arranged in the image recording device.

[0166] The number of printheads is not limited to two. At least one printhead should be present. The image recording device can be a color inkjet printer, with printheads for dispensing inks such as black, magenta, cyan, or yellow.

[0167] The image recording device according to the invention can be a line-type image recording device or a serial-type image recording device. The image recording device is not limited to printers, but can also be a fax machine or, for example, a photocopier.

[0168] The substrate on the liquid container can also be a removable connection substrate. The positional relationship of the connections on the substrate must satisfy the spacing requirements described above. However, the positional relationships of the connections on the liquid container on which the substrate is mounted are not limited to this. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0169] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0170] JP 2007-196664

[0002]

Claims

[1] Liquid container ( 40 ) for a line printhead printer ( 1 ), comprehensive: a case ( 41 ) with an outer surface; a liquid reservoir ( 40B , 40P ) in the housing ( 41 ), suitable for storing more than 100 milliliters of liquid; a liquid flow path suitable for transferring between the liquid reservoir ( 40B , 40P ) with the exterior of the liquid container on the outer surface of the housing ( 41 ) exchange fluid; a sensor ( 70 ), suitable for defining a first and second position of a movable element ( 60 ) to detect and suitable for determining the first and second positions of the moving element ( 60 ) to output a signal; a storage ( 141 ) for storing data; a substrate ( 142), arranged on the outer surface of the housing ( 41 ) and on which a large number of connections ( 170c until 177c are arranged; including the multitude of connections: a sensor connection ( 170c , 171c ), connected to the sensor ( 70 ); a data connection ( 172c , 173c ), connected to the storage ( 141 ); a power supply connection ( 174c ), connected to the sensor ( 70 ) and / or the memory ( 141 ); and where a distance between the power supply connection ( 174c ) and the data connection ( 172c , 173c ) is greater than the distance between the power supply connection and the sensor connection. [2] Liquid container according to claim 1, wherein the liquid reservoir ( 40B , 40P) is suitable for transferring liquid from the liquid reservoir ( 40B , 40P ) to the exterior of the liquid container ( 40 ) to supply in such a quantity that at certain points of the line printhead printer ( 1 ) the humidity increases. [3] Liquid container according to one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the sensor ( 70 ) is suitable to provide a signal in relation to the first and second positions of the moving element ( 60 ), during or shortly after installing the liquid container ( 40 ) into the recording section ( 35 ) of the line printhead printer and the data port ( 172c , 173c ) is suitable for repeatedly transferring data during use of the liquid container ( 40 ) in the line header printer ( 1 ) to transfer. [4] Liquid container according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a plurality of connections, including the sensor connection ( 170c , 171c ) and the power supply connection ( 174c ), arranged in a first row, including a variety of connections, including the data terminal ( 172c , 173c ), are arranged in a second row essentially parallel to the first row, and where the distance between the terminals arranged in the first row and the terminals arranged in the second row is greater than the distance between the terminals in the first row. [5] Liquid container according to claim 4, wherein the sensor connection ( 170c , 171c ) adjacent to the power supply connection ( 174c ) is arranged in the first line. [6] Liquid container according to one of claims 4 to 5, further comprising a ground connection ( 175c , 176c , 177c ), which is arranged in the second line. [7] Liquid container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of connections, including the sensor connection ( 170c , 171c ), the data connection ( 172c , 173c ) and the power supply connection ( 174c ), arranged in a single line. [8] Liquid container according to claim 7, wherein the sensor connection ( 170c , 171c ) adjacent to the power supply connection ( 174c ) is arranged. [9] Liquid container according to claim 7, further comprising a ground connection ( 175c , 176c , 177c ), and the sensor connection ( 170c , 171c ) and the data connection ( 172c , 173c ) between the power supply connection ( 174c) and the ground connection ( 175 , 176c , 177c ) is arranged. [10] Liquid container according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the data stored in the memory ( 141 ) are stored, including information data relating to the remaining amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir ( 40B , 40P ) relate. [11] Liquid container according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the data includes information data relating to the number of printed pages. [12] Image recording device ( 1 ), comprehensive: the liquid container according to any one of claims 1 to 11; a main body in which the liquid container ( 40 ) is arranged, the main body comprising: an installation section ( 35 ), in which the liquid container is installed; a hollow element ( 153) suitable for use in the liquid container located in the installation section ( 35 ) is ordered to be deployed; a liquid output printhead ( 2 ), suitable for use with the hollow element ( 153 ) to exchange liquid and to transfer liquid from the liquid container via the hollow element ( 153 ) to spend; a communication section that establishes communication with the liquid container in the installation section ( 35 ) carries out; a sensor signal reception port ( 170p ), suitable for establishing an electrical contact with the communication section; a data reception connection ( 172p ), suitable for establishing electrical connections with the communication section; a power supply ( 158 ); and a voltage output connection ( 174p), suitable for making electrical connections with the power supply ( 158 ) to produce, the communication section is suitable for transmitting data stored in the memory ( 141 ) are stored via the data output port ( 173p ) and the data reception connection ( 172p ) to read and which is suitable to read the signal from the sensor ( 70 ) via the sensor signal output connector ( 171p ) and the sensor signal reception port ( 170p to receive. [13] Image recording device according to claim 12, wherein the memory ( 141 ) is suitable for storing data relating to the signal, and the communication section is also suitable for: to detect whether a read error occurred while reading the data; and to prevent writing in case a read error has occurred. [14] Image recording device according to one of claims 12 to 13, wherein the communication section transmits data relating to the liquid output printhead ( 2 ) fluid and / or data dispensed during the writing operation in relation to the number of media written to the memory ( 141 ) of the liquid container ( 40 ) writes. [15] Image recording device according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the communication section receives the signal from the sensor ( 70 ), during or shortly after insertion of the liquid container ( 40 ) in the installation section ( 35 ) of the main body receives and processes data through the data port ( 172c , 173c ), while using the liquid container ( 40 ) in the image recording device ( 1 ) repeatedly transmits.