Method for manufacturing pressure adjustment mechanism, pressure adjustment mechanism, printing head mechanism, and recording device

Abstract

To provide a method for manufacturing a pressure adjustment mechanism having a film capable of being more easily molded than conventional techniques.SOLUTION: A method for manufacturing a pressure adjustment mechanism capable of adjusting the pressure of a liquid is provided, the method comprising: a step of preparing a main body in which an elastic body is disposed in a depressed portion, and a film having flexibility to which a plate member is fixed; a welding step of welding the film to the main body in such a manner as to cover the depressed portion while contracting the elastic body by using the plate member; and a molding step of molding the film by moving the plate member in a direction opposite to the depressed portion while sucking a portion to which the plate member is fixed in the film in a state where the film is fixed to the main body in the welding step.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a manufacturing method of a pressure adjustment mechanism, a pressure adjustment mechanism, a print head mechanism, and a printing apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] A mechanism is known that adjusts the pressure of liquid supplied to an inkjet recording head or the like by using negative pressure. Patent Document 1 discloses a liquid storage container that includes a concave frame, a sheet that is welded to the frame and can deform according to internal pressure, and a spring unit built into the frame, and that can adjust the pressure of the liquid. Patent Document 1 also discloses that the spring unit includes a spring and a pressure plate. Hereinafter, the "frame," "sheet," "liquid storage section," "pressure plate," and "liquid storage container" are appropriately referred to as the "main body," "film," "storage chamber," "plate member," and "pressure adjustment mechanism," respectively. According to the liquid storage container of Patent Document 1, it is possible to supply liquid (e.g., ink) from the liquid storage section to an external device (e.g., inkjet recording head) by using negative pressure.

[0003] In general, a stretched film is already in a stretched state and is known to have greater rigidity than a non-stretched film. It is also known that a stretched film has better gas permeability, chemical resistance, heat resistance, and mechanical properties such as tensile strength than a non-stretched film. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-152842 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the manufacturing method of Patent Document 1, after the film is stretched, a large number of tools (heating devices, suction frames, assisting tools, etc.) are required to shape the film so that it can deform in response to internal pressure.

[0006] In addition, in the manufacturing method of Patent Document 1, when the film is molded into a convex shape, the film is pushed up only by the elastic restoring force of the spring. Therefore, the force pushing up the film is insufficient, and it may be difficult to mold the film uniformly. Furthermore, in the manufacturing method of Patent Document 1, even when a film having a higher rigidity than the film disclosed in Patent Document 1 is used, it may be difficult to mold the film into a convex shape.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for manufacturing a pressure adjustment mechanism having a film that can be molded more easily than with conventional techniques. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the method disclosed herein is a manufacturing method for a pressure adjustment mechanism capable of adjusting the pressure of a liquid, and is characterized by including the steps of: preparing a main body having an elastic body arranged in a recess; and a flexible film having a plate member fixed thereto; a welding step of welding the film to the main body so as to cover the recess while contracting the elastic body with the plate member; and a molding step of shaping the film by moving the plate member in the direction opposite to the recess while adsorbing the portion of the film to which the plate member is fixed while the film is welded to the main body. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the manufacturing method of the pressure adjustment mechanism in the present disclosure, it is possible to form a convex portion on a film more easily than with conventional techniques. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a recording apparatus applicable to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of a pressure adjustment mechanism applicable to one embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of a film applicable to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment. [Diagram 5] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] An enlarged view of circle VII in FIG. [Figure 8] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] An enlarged view of circle IX in FIG. [Figure 10] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view showing an example of a pressure adjustment mechanism applicable to one embodiment. [Figure 12] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment. [Figure 17] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] [First embodiment] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiment does not limit the scope of the present disclosure. Not all of the combinations of features described in the present disclosure are essential to the solution of the present disclosure. The relative positions and shapes of the configurations described in the present disclosure are merely examples, and the scope to which the technology of the present disclosure can be applied is not limited to these.

[0012] In this disclosure, "recording" does not only mean forming meaningful information (for example, characters or figures that are made visible so that humans can perceive them visually). "Recording" also means forming insignificant information. In this disclosure, "recording" also means forming an image, a design, a pattern, a structure, or a combination thereof on a recording medium, or processing the medium.

[0013] <Recording device 100> FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a recording device 100 that can be used in this embodiment.

[0014] 1, the printing apparatus 100 includes a tank 101 capable of storing liquid, a first pump 102 for pressurizing and supplying the liquid, and a connection unit 103 capable of connecting the tank 101. In this embodiment, the printing apparatus 100 is an inkjet printing apparatus, and the liquid is ink. The printing apparatus 100 includes a flexible tube 104, a guide shaft 105 arranged along the scanning direction (X direction in the figure), and a printhead mechanism 106 capable of performing printing.

[0015] The printhead mechanism 106 includes a pressure adjustment mechanism 107 capable of adjusting the pressure inside during printing, a carriage 108 to which the pressure adjustment mechanism 107 can be detached, and a printhead 109 disposed on the carriage 108.

[0016] The recording device 100 includes a transport mechanism (not shown) for intermittently transporting the recording medium 110 in a transport direction (Y direction in the figure) that intersects (orthogonal in this example) with the scanning direction. In this example, cut paper is used as an example of the recording medium 110. The recording device 100 includes a cap 111 capable of capping the recording head 109, a second pump 112 connected to the cap 111, a discharge pipe 113 capable of discharging unnecessary liquid, and an absorber 114 capable of absorbing unnecessary liquid.

[0017] In this embodiment, the tank 101 is installed at a position away from the print head mechanism 106. When the volume of liquid stored in the tank 101 falls below a predetermined value, it is possible to replenish the tank 101 with liquid from the outside. With this configuration, it is possible to increase the volume of liquid that can be stored compared to a typical tank disposed on a carriage.

[0018] In this embodiment, the tank 101 includes a first tank 101Y, a second tank 101M, a third tank 101C, and a fourth tank 101Bk. The first tank 101Y, the second tank 101M, the third tank 101C, and the fourth tank 101Bk can store different types of liquids independently. For example, the first tank 101Y can store a yellow liquid. The second tank 101M can store a magenta liquid. The third tank 101C can store a cyan liquid. The fourth tank 101Bk can store a black liquid.

[0019] Hereinafter, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between the first tank 101Y, the second tank 101M, the third tank 101C, and the fourth tank 101Bk, they will be simply referred to as "tanks 101."

[0020] The liquid is supplied from the tank 101 to the inside of the connection part 103. The base end of the tube 104 is connected to the connection part 103. The tip of the tube 104 is connected to a pressure adjustment mechanism 107.

[0021] In this embodiment, the tube 104 includes a first tube 104Y, a second tube 104M, a third tube 104C, and a fourth tube 104Bk. The first tube 104Y is capable of supplying a yellow liquid. The second tube 104M is capable of supplying a magenta liquid. The third tube 104C is capable of supplying a cyan liquid. The fourth tube 104Bk is capable of supplying a black liquid.

[0022] Hereinafter, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between the first tube 104Y, the second tube 104M, the third tube 104C, and the fourth tube 104Bk, they will be simply referred to as "tubes 104."

[0023] When a recording operation is performed by the recording head mechanism 106, the first pump 102 is driven to supply the liquid under pressure to the pressure adjustment mechanism 107 via the tube 104 from the connection part 103 independently for each of the four types of liquid described above. The recording medium 110 is intermittently transported by a transport mechanism (not shown). In the recording device 100, transport of the recording medium 110 and recording by the recording head mechanism 106, which ejects liquid onto the recording medium 110 while moving in the scanning direction, are alternately performed.

[0024] The pressure adjustment mechanism 107 is capable of introducing liquid supplied under pressure from the tube 104 into the inside. The liquid introduced into the pressure adjustment mechanism 107 is supplied to the recording head 109 by the second pump 112 performing suction driving with the cap 111 in contact with the discharge port surface. This suction pump sucks the liquid contained inside the pressure adjustment mechanism 107, so that the inside of the pressure adjustment mechanism 107 becomes negative pressure.

[0025] In this embodiment, the pressure adjustment mechanism 107 includes a first pressure adjustment mechanism 107Y, a second pressure adjustment mechanism 107M, a third pressure adjustment mechanism 107C, and a fourth pressure adjustment mechanism 107Bk. The first pressure adjustment mechanism 107Y can supply the liquid supplied from the first tube 104Y to the recording head 109. The second pressure adjustment mechanism 107M can supply the liquid supplied from the second tube 104M to the recording head 109. The third pressure adjustment mechanism 107C can supply the liquid supplied from the third tube 104C to the recording head 109. The fourth pressure adjustment mechanism 107Bk can supply the liquid supplied from the fourth tube 104Bk to the recording head 109.

[0026] Hereinafter, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between the first pressure adjustment mechanism 107Y, the second pressure adjustment mechanism 107M, the third pressure adjustment mechanism 107C, and the fourth pressure adjustment mechanism 107Bk, they will simply be referred to as "pressure adjustment mechanism 107."

[0027] The pressure adjustment mechanism 107 and the recording head 109 are mounted on a carriage 108 that can reciprocate along a guide shaft 105. The carriage 108 can reciprocate in the scanning direction by the driving force of a driving source (not shown). The recording head 109 has a plurality of nozzles (not shown) that can eject liquid. The plurality of nozzles are arranged so that a nozzle row corresponding to each of the four types of liquid described above is formed in the transport direction. Each of the plurality of nozzles can eject liquid using an electrothermal conversion element (heater) or a piezoelectric element. When an electrothermal conversion element is used, the liquid is bubbled by the heat generated, and the liquid can be ejected as droplets from an ejection port at the tip of the nozzle by utilizing the bubbling energy.

[0028] By alternately repeating a print scan in which the print head 109 ejects liquid from the nozzles while moving in the scanning direction together with the carriage 108, and an operation of transporting the print medium 110 in the transport direction, it is possible to perform printing on the print medium 110. In this manner, the printing device 100 of this embodiment functions as a so-called serial scan type printing device. Therefore, according to the printing device 100 of this embodiment, it is possible to make the carriage 108 lighter and smaller than the carriage of a general on-carriage type printing device.

[0029] When maintenance of the recording head 109 is required, the carriage 108 moves above the cap 111. The cap 111 can be raised and lowered by a driving source (not shown). The cap 111 rises during maintenance and caps the ejection port surface of the recording head 109 on which the ejection ports are formed. With the ejection port surface capped, the second pump 112 can reduce the pressure inside the cap 111. By the second pump 112 reducing the pressure inside the cap 111, the liquid remaining inside the recording head 109 can be discharged via a discharge pipe 113. The discharged liquid is absorbed by an absorber 114 arranged in the device main body.

[0030] In this embodiment, prior to a recording operation, the recording head is initially filled with ink. Specifically, the first pump 102 pressurizes and supplies ink, and the second pump 112 is driven to suck the ink while the cap 111 is in contact with the recording head 109. This causes the liquid to be contained in the storage chamber (not shown here) of the pressure adjustment mechanism 107.

[0031] <Pressure adjustment mechanism 107> 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the inside of the pressure adjustment mechanism 107 in this embodiment. As described above, in this embodiment, there are four pressure adjustment mechanisms 107. However, for ease of explanation, FIG. 2 will explain one pressure adjustment mechanism 107 as an example. The four pressure adjustment mechanisms 107 used in this embodiment all have the same configuration, except for the type of liquid contained therein.

[0032] 2, one pressure adjustment mechanism 107 includes one main body 201. The main body 201 is formed with a valve chamber 203 molded inside the main body 201, and a supply flow path 202 capable of supplying liquid to the valve chamber 203. The main body 201 is further formed with a recess 205, a connection flow path 204 connecting the valve chamber 203 and the recess 205, and a discharge flow path 207 capable of discharging liquid from the recess 205. A first groove 206 having an annular shape (in this example, annular) is formed on the bottom surface of the recess 205.

[0033] The material constituting the main body 201 includes polypropylene (PP). The supply flow path 202 is molded so as to be able to supply the liquid supplied from the tube to the valve chamber 203. A valve mechanism 208 is disposed in the valve chamber 203. The valve mechanism 208 includes a valve 209 capable of opening and closing the connection flow path 204, and a first elastic body 210 (in this example, a coil spring) capable of biasing the valve 209 in the upward direction in the figure.

[0034] A base end of a second elastic body 211 (a coil spring in this example) is fitted into the first groove 206. The second elastic body 211 is not fixed to the first groove 206. A rib 214 is formed so as to protrude in an annular shape (in this example, a cylindrical shape) from a peripheral edge 213 of an opening 212 of the recess 205. A flexible film 215 is fixed (thermally welded in this example) to the rib 214.

[0035] In this embodiment, a part of film 215 can protrude from the top of rib 214 by 0.9 mm or more in the direction opposite to the recessed direction of recess 205. It is particularly preferable that rib 214 is made of a material containing PP. The welding layer of film 215 to rib 214 (described later) also preferably contains PP. By making the rib 214 and the welding layer of film 215 out of the same material, they can be made compatible at the same heating temperature.

[0036] A plate member 216 is fixed (thermally welded in this example) to the welding layer of the film 215. A ring-shaped second groove 217 into which the tip of the second elastic body 211 can be fitted is formed in the plate member 216. The second elastic body 211 is not fixed to the second groove 217. The film 215 is fixed to the rib 214 so as to cover the recess 205, thereby forming a storage chamber 218 capable of storing liquid in a liquid-tight manner.

[0037] A connecting flow path 204 is formed to connect the storage chamber 218 and the valve chamber 203. The valve 209 includes a sealing member 219 for opening and closing the connecting flow path 204, and a pin member 220 protruding from the sealing member 219. A base end of the pin member 220 is inserted into and fixed in an insertion portion of the sealing member 219. The valve 209 is disposed in the valve chamber 203 such that a tip end of the pin member 220 passes from the sealing member 219 through the connecting flow path 204 and enters the storage chamber 218.

[0038] At the time when pressure adjustment mechanism 107 is manufactured, plate member 216 does not abut against pin member 220. This is because second elastic body 211, which has a height greater than the height of pin member 220, biases recess 205 and plate member 216 in a direction separating them (upward in the figure).

[0039] 1, the pressure adjustment mechanism 107 is mounted on the recording device 100, and then the first pump 102 is driven to fill the valve chamber 203 with liquid. The valve chamber 203 is pressurized by the driving of the first pump 102. As a result, the valve 209 closes the connecting flow path 204. Therefore, no liquid flows into the storage chamber 218.

[0040] Next, when the second pump 112 is driven, the negative pressure gradually increases inside the storage chamber 218. When the negative pressure inside the storage chamber 218 reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, the plate member 216 moves downward in the figure against the bias of the second elastic body 211 so as to contract the volume of the storage chamber 218. Thereafter, the plate member 216 comes into contact with the tip of the pin member 220, which moves downward in the figure, thereby opening the connection flow path 204. With the connection flow path 204 open, the liquid in the valve chamber 203 flows into the storage chamber 218.

[0041] In this way, the liquid flows into the pressure adjustment mechanism 107 and the recording head 109, so that the negative pressure in the containing chamber 218 gradually decreases. As the negative pressure in the containing chamber 218 decreases, the plate member 216 gradually moves upward in the figure. Then, the volume of the containing chamber 218 stabilizes in a state where the negative pressure in the containing chamber 218 and the resistance of the second elastic body 211 are balanced.

[0042] When a recording operation is started in this state, liquid is supplied from the storage chamber 218 to the recording head via the discharge flow path 207. This creates a further negative pressure in the storage chamber 218. When this negative pressure causes the plate member 216 to move downward in the figure and the film 215 to bend further, the pin member 220 is pressed by the plate member 216, and the connecting flow path 204 is opened. By opening the connecting flow path 204, liquid is replenished from the valve chamber 203 to the storage chamber 218.

[0043] When the storage chamber 218 is refilled with liquid and the negative pressure in the storage chamber 218 decreases, the plate member 216 is pushed up by the elastic restoring force of the second elastic body 211. As the plate member 216 is pushed up, the shape of the film 215 also returns to a convex shape. While the plate member 216 is being pushed up, the valve 209 is pushed up by the elastic restoring force of the first elastic body 210. As a result, the connection flow path 204 is again sealed by the sealing member 219. At this time, the pin member 220 and the plate member 216 are in contact with each other.

[0044] In this way, in the pressure adjustment mechanism 107, the valve 209 opens and closes the connection flow path 204 in accordance with the consumption of ink in the print head 109 and the supply of ink from the valve chamber 203. By such opening and closing operation of the valve 209, the liquid supplied to the print head 109 can be stabilized within a predetermined pressure range.

[0045] Furthermore, the material of the film 215 is required to have durability to withstand repeated deformation caused by the up and down movement of the plate member 216, gas barrier properties, water vapor barrier properties, and long-term storage properties for storing liquid for a relatively long period of time.

[0046] <Film 215> FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a film 215 that can be applied to this embodiment.

[0047] As shown in Fig. 3, the film 215 includes a stretchable welding layer 301 (first layer) and a base film layer 302 (second layer) that is difficult to stretch. Specifically, the welding layer 301 includes PP. The base film layer 302 includes polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In this embodiment, the base film layer 302 is laminated to the welding layer 301. More specifically, the welding layer 301 is a non-stretched polypropylene film made of non-stretched polypropylene (CPP). The base film layer 302 is a stretched polyethylene terephthalate film (stretched PET film) made of stretched PET.

[0048] In order to further improve the gas barrier property and water vapor barrier property of the base film layer 302, aluminum or silica may be vapor-deposited onto the base film layer 302. As long as the film 215 has the above-mentioned gas barrier property, water vapor barrier property, durability, and long-term storage stability, the film 215 may have a layer containing a material other than those mentioned above.

[0049] <Manufacturing process of pressure adjustment mechanism> A method for manufacturing the pressure adjustment mechanism of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 to 11. Figures 4 to 10 are schematic cross-sectional views of the pressure adjustment mechanism in each step of the manufacturing method of this embodiment.

[0050] First, a main body 201 is prepared, which includes a supply flow path 202, a valve chamber 203, a connecting flow path 204, a first groove 206, a recess 205, a rib 214, a valve mechanism 208, and a second elastic body 211. Furthermore, a film 215 is prepared, in which a plate member 216 is heat-welded to a welding layer. Next, the film 215 is held above the main body 201 by a holding jig 401 while pulling the film 215 left and right. A connecting jig 402 is disposed below the holding jig 401, which can be aligned with and connected to the holding jig 401.

[0051] Next, the contact step is performed. In the contact step, as shown in Fig. 4, the gripping jig 401 is lowered, and the welding layer of the film 215, which is pulled in the left-right direction in the figure, is brought into contact with the top 403 of the rib 214. By pulling the film 215, tension is generated in the film 215. This makes it possible to prevent the film 215 from contacting the main body 201 in a bent state.

[0052] Specifically, the film 215 is pulled and held by the holding jig 401 so that the welding layer of the film 215 and the top 403 of the rib 214 face each other at a position away from the main body 201. Then, when the film 215 is brought closer to the main body 201 while aligning the position of the holding jig 401 and the position of the connecting jig 402 so that the position coincides with the position of the holding jig 401, the tip of the second elastic body 211 fits into the second groove 217. When the film 215 is brought further closer to the main body 201 with the tip of the second elastic body 211 fitted into the second groove 217, the welding layer of the film 215 comes into close contact with the top 403. In this way, in the contacting step, the holding jig 401 and the connecting jig 402 are used to contract the second elastic body 211 by the plate member 216, and the film 215 is brought into close contact with the rib 214 so as to cover the recess 205. After the above-described contact step is completed, the adsorption step is carried out.

[0053] 5 is a diagram showing an example of a suction step for suctioning film 215 in this embodiment. The suction step is performed to prevent film 215 from shifting.

[0054] As shown in Fig. 5, in the suction step, the suction tool 501 suctions the welded portion between the film 215 and the plate member 216. The welded portion between the film 215 and the plate member 216 is more rigid and smoother than a portion where the plate member 216 is not welded to the film 215. In this way, by suctioning the portion with high rigidity and smoothness, it is possible to generate sufficient suction force while suppressing the shifting of the film 215, compared to the case where a portion with low rigidity and not smooth is suctioned. This increases the frictional force at the contact portion between the suction tool 501 and the film 215, making it easier to perform work in the steps following the suction step. The welding step is performed in a state where the welded portion is suctioned by the suction step.

[0055] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a welding process for welding the main body 201 and the film 215 in this embodiment.

[0056] 6, in the welding process, a heating jig 601 is used to thermally weld the contacting portions of the rib 214 and the film 215. In this manner, in the welding process, the welding layer of the film 215 is welded to the rib 214 so as to cover the recess 205, in a state in which the second elastic body 211 is contracted by the plate member 216. Note that even in the welding process, the suction jig 501 is in a state of suctioning the plate member 216 via the film 215.

[0057] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the area enclosed by circle VII in FIG.

[0058] As shown in Fig. 7, the rib 214 is crushed while being melted by the heating jig 601 through the film 215. The dashed lines in Fig. 7 indicate the shape of the rib 214 before the rib 214 is crushed by the heating jig 601. In this way, when the heating jig 601 heats and crushes the rib 214 from above the base film layer 302, the welding layer 301 and the tops 403 of the rib 214 become compatible with each other.

[0059] As described above, the material of the main body 201 (particularly the rib 214) is PP. That is, the material of the top 403 is the same as the material of the welding layer 301. It is also known that the melting point of PET is sufficiently higher than that of PP. Therefore, the base film layer 302 is unlikely to melt during the heat welding of the welding layer 301 and the rib 214. According to this welding method, a sufficient temperature margin can be maintained when heat welding the welding layer 301 and the top 403, so that good heat welding can be achieved. After the heat welding is completed, the heating jig 601 is removed. After the above welding process is completed, the molding process is performed next.

[0060] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a forming process for forming convex portions on the film 215 in this embodiment.

[0061] 8, in the forming step, the suction jig 501 is raised while the film 215 is being suctioned by the suction jig 501. In this manner, in the forming step, the plate member 216 is moved together with the film 215 while the film 215 is being suctioned by the suction jig 501, and a convex portion that protrudes in the opposite direction to the direction in which the concave portion 205 is recessed relative to the film 215 is formed. Specifically, the suction jig 501 is raised to a position where the distance from the welded portion of the film 215 to the rib 214 to the welded portion of the film 215 to the plate member 216 is a predetermined distance. In this embodiment, the welded portion of the film 215 to the plate member 216 is moved by the suction jig 501 by about 0.9 mm from the top of the rib 214.

[0062] Specifically, the surface of film 215 facing the opposite direction to the surface to which plate member 216 is fixed is suctioned by suction jig 501. Then, suction jig 501 is gradually raised so as to maintain a state in which plate member 216 and the bottom surface of recess 205 are parallel to each other. This allows a protrusion protruding about 0.9 mm from the top of rib 214 to be formed on film 215.

[0063] In this embodiment, when forming convex portions on film 215, plate member 216 is not pushed up only by the elastic restoring force of second elastic body 211, but film 215 is pulled up by raising suction jig 501. In the forming process, the elastic restoring force of second elastic body 211 also acts on film 215 via plate member 216. Most of the force required to form convex portions on film 215 is generated by raising suction jig 501.

[0064] As a result, protrusions are formed on film 215 regardless of the elastic restoring force of second elastic body 211. That is, even if the elastic restoring force of second elastic body 211 is relatively small, protrusions can be formed on film 215. Furthermore, even if the rigidity of film 215 is relatively high, protrusions can be formed on film 215.

[0065] In this embodiment, the plate member 216 is fixed to the film 215 in advance, and the film 215 is pulled up together with the plate member 216 by the suction jig 501. As described above, while the film 215 is being pulled up, the plate member 216 is kept parallel to the bottom surface of the recess 205. Therefore, the convex portions can be formed on the film 215 without the plate member 216 being inclined with respect to the bottom surface of the recess 205 and without wrinkles being generated in the convex portions of the film 215.

[0066] If plate member 216 is tilted with respect to the bottom surface of recess 205 or if wrinkles occur in film 215, an extra force is required to elastically deform film 215. According to the method for forming the convex portion in this embodiment, the tilt of plate member 216 and the occurrence of wrinkles in the convex portion of film 215 are suppressed. This allows film 215 to be smoothly elastically deformed during the recording operation.

[0067] Fig. 9 is an enlarged view of the area surrounded by circle IX in Fig. 8. The dashed area 901 in Fig. 9 indicates an area that was part of the rib 214 before the rib 214 and the film 215 were heat-sealed together. The melted part of the rib 214 is stretched to follow the pulled-up film 215 by capillary action and the viscosity of the melted PP.

[0068] 9, the film 215 has a fixed portion and a deformable movable portion. The fixed portion of the film 215 is a portion that is fixed to the rib 214 by the welding layer 301 (non-stretched film) being compatible with the rib 214. The movable portion is a portion that can move in the direction in which the recess 205 (not shown here) is recessed, or in the opposite direction to the direction in which the recess 205 is recessed. In this embodiment, the film 215 can protrude from the top of the rib 214 by about 0.9 mm in the opposite direction to the direction in which the recess 205 is recessed.

[0069] The welding layer 301 melts when heated by the heating jig. On the other hand, the base film layer 302 does not melt when heated by the heating jig. This is because, as described above, the melting point of the base film layer 302 is higher than the melting point of the welding layer 301. The parts of the welding layer 301 that are compatible with the rib 214 are supported more firmly by the melted rib 214 than the parts to which the melted rib 214 is not attached.

[0070] In this embodiment, the welding layer 301 is a non-stretched polypropylene film, and the base film layer 302 is a stretched PET film. Therefore, the base film layer 302 is already stretched, and therefore does not become longer than its original length. On the other hand, the welding layer 301 is in a state where it can be stretched, and therefore becomes longer than its original length when it is forcibly pulled up by the lifting of the suction jig.

[0071] In this manner, in the forming process, the welding layer 301 is pulled up while being stretched by the lifting of the suction tool, and the base film layer 302 is pulled up by the suction tool together with the welding layer 301 without being stretched. According to this method of forming convex portions, even if the film 215 contains a stretched PET film, it is possible to form convex portions on the film 215. After the above forming process is completed, a cooling process is performed next.

[0072] In the cooling step, the film 215 is held for a certain period of time while maintaining the convex portions formed in the forming step. Then, heat escapes from the film 215 into the atmosphere. That is, in the cooling step of this embodiment, the film 215 is naturally cooled. However, in the cooling step, cold air may be applied to the film 215. By applying cold air, the time required for cooling can be shortened. After the film 215 is cooled and fixed to the ribs 214, a removal step is performed in which unnecessary portions of the film 215 are removed.

[0073] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the pressure adjustment mechanism 107 after the removal step in this embodiment has been performed.

[0074] In the removing step, unnecessary portions of film 215 (portions protruding from main body 201) are removed (eg, cut) by a removing means (eg, a blade or a laser, etc.).

[0075] By going through the above-mentioned manufacturing process, it is possible to manufacture pressure adjustment mechanism 107. Note that the height of the convex portion of film 215 does not change during the period from the time when pressure adjustment mechanism 107 is completed to the time when the inside of storage chamber 218 becomes negative pressure.

[0076] FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of the completed pressure adjustment mechanism 107 as viewed from the film 215 side.

[0077] 11, the planar shape of the plate member 216 is circular. That is, the shape of the plate member 216 in this embodiment is a relatively thin disk. The film 215 to which the plate member 216 is heat-welded is made of a relatively transparent material. For this reason, the rib 214, which is compatible with the welding layer, can be seen through from the surface on which the base film layer is disposed.

[0078] Moreover, the rib 214 is formed in an annular shape (in this example, in a circular shape) on the periphery of the recess 205 (not shown here). The radius of the annular ring formed by the annular rib 214 is larger than the radius of the circular plane of the plate member 216. Furthermore, in the welding process and the molding process, each operation is performed so that the center of the annular ring (ring) formed by the annular rib 214 and the center of the circular plane of the plate member 216 overlap on the same axis. Therefore, the distance in the circumferential direction from the plate member 216 to the rib 214 is constant. Therefore, the second elastic body 211 (not shown here) expands and contracts stably, and it becomes possible to apply uniform tension to the film 215. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of wrinkles in the film 215 in the process of forming a protrusion on the film 215.

[0079] As described above, in the manufacturing method of this embodiment, when forming convex portions on film 215, film 215 is pulled up using a suction tool without relying solely on the elastic restoring force of second elastic body 211.

[0080] Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of this embodiment, it is possible to manufacture a pressure adjustment mechanism having a film that can be formed more easily than the conventional technology. Furthermore, according to the manufacturing method of this embodiment, even if a spring having an elastic restoring force smaller than that of the spring of the conventional technology is used, it is possible to form a smooth convex portion on the film regardless of the elastic restoring force of the spring. Furthermore, according to the manufacturing method of this embodiment, it is also possible to handle a film having a stiffness greater than that of the film of the conventional technology. Furthermore, according to the manufacturing method of this embodiment, it is possible to form a convex portion on the film with high precision while suppressing the occurrence of wrinkles compared to the manufacturing method of the conventional technology.

[0081] [Second embodiment] A second embodiment of the technique of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to Figures 12 to 17. The difference between the manufacturing method in the first embodiment and the manufacturing method in this embodiment is whether or not a pressing step of pressing a film is included.

[0082] In this embodiment, the height of the convex portion is greater than that of the first embodiment because the film is pushed into the inside of the concave portion and stretched. This results in a greater height of the storage chamber than that of the first embodiment. In order to accommodate the greater height of the storage chamber, a longer elastic member is used in this embodiment than in the first embodiment. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for configurations similar to or corresponding to those in the first embodiment, and description is omitted, and differences are mainly described.

[0083] In a preparation step, a main body 201 is prepared, which includes a supply flow path 202, a valve chamber 203, a connecting flow path 204, a first groove 206, a recess 205, a rib 214, a valve mechanism 208, and a third spring 1201 (see FIG. 12). In this embodiment, the length of the third spring 1201 is greater than the length of the second elastic body 211 (see FIG. 2, etc.). A base end of the third spring 1201 is disposed in the first groove 206.

[0084] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a contact step in which the film 215 is brought into contact with the main body 201 in this embodiment.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 12, in the contacting step, the film 215 is held by a gripping jig 401 while being pulled toward the outside of the main body 201 , and the welding layer of the film 215 is brought into contact with the tops 403 of the ribs 214 .

[0086] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a suction step for suctioning film 215 in this embodiment.

[0087] 13, in the suction step, the welded portion between film 215 and plate member 216 is suctioned by suction tool 501. In this embodiment, after the suction step, a pushing step is performed in which film 215 is pushed toward the recessed portion.

[0088] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the pressing step in this embodiment.

[0089] 14, in the pressing step, a pressing tool 1401 is used to press the film 215 toward the bottom surface of the recess 205. The amount by which the film 215 is pressed can be set appropriately.

[0090] In the pressing step, pressing tool 1401 is used to press the area of ​​film 215 between rib 214 and suction tool 501, thereby stretching film 215. By pressing film 215, the height of the convex portions of film 215 can be made larger than the height of the convex portions in the first embodiment.

[0091] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a welding process for welding the main body 201 and the film 215 in this embodiment.

[0092] 15, in the welding process, the contacting portions of the rib 214 and the film 215 are thermally welded by a heating jig 601. Note that in this process as well, the suction jig 501 is in a state of suctioning the film 215. The pressing jig 1401 is in a state of pressing the film 215. When the welding process is completed, the heating jig 601 and the pressing jig 1401 are retracted from the main body.

[0093] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a forming process for forming convex portions on the film 215 in this embodiment.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 16, in the forming process, suction jig 501 is raised to a desired height while suctioning film 215.

[0095] The film 215 in this embodiment has a pressing portion 1601 that is pressed and stretched by a pressing jig. In this manner, an annular bending portion that surrounds the plate member 216 is formed in the film 215 on the inside of the welded portion where the film 215 and the rib 214 are welded and on the outside of the plate member 216. This allows the height of the convex portion in the film 215 to be made higher than in the first embodiment. That is, the volume of the storage chamber 1602 can be made larger than in the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the welded portion between the film 215 and the plate member 216 can be moved about 1.8 mm from the top of the rib 214.

[0096] As described above, in this embodiment, the third spring 1201 is used, which is longer than the second elastic body used in the first embodiment. This makes it possible to make the height of the containing chamber 1602 greater than that of the containing chamber in the first embodiment.

[0097] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing pressure adjustment mechanism 107 after a removal step has been performed to remove unnecessary portions of film 215 in this embodiment.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 17, unnecessary portions (not shown) of film 215 are cut and removed using a laser or the like.

[0099] The pressure adjustment mechanism 1700 of this embodiment can be manufactured through the above-mentioned manufacturing process.

[0100] As described above, according to the manufacturing method of this embodiment, the film is pressed by the pressing tool. This causes the film to be stretched more than in the first embodiment, and the area of ​​the deformable portion of the film is increased. Therefore, in this embodiment, when forming a protrusion on the film, the height of the protrusion can be made larger than in the first embodiment. As a result, the amount of deformation of the film when the volume of the storage chamber decreases in this embodiment is also greater than the amount of deformation of the film when the volume of the storage chamber decreases in the first embodiment.

[0101] As described above, while a certain negative pressure is maintained, the connecting flow passage is closed by the valve. When a certain amount of ink or more is consumed by the printing operation or when the second pump performs a suction operation, the valve can responsively open and close the connecting flow passage in response to an increase in the negative pressure.

[0102] If the convex portion is formed when the film is relatively little bent, not only the lower surface of the plate member but also the sloped portion of the film from the end of the plate to the rib will be affected by the negative pressure. This makes the internal pressure of the storage chamber more likely to vary, and the opening and closing operation of the valve becomes unstable. If the film is bent to the extent that it can be folded back inward, as in this embodiment, the effect of the negative pressure that the entire film receives can be concentrated on the lower surface of the plate member (the surface facing the concave portion). This makes it possible to properly open and close the valve in response to changes in the internal pressure of the storage chamber.

[0103] Furthermore, by increasing the amount of deflection of the film compared to the first embodiment, the volume of the storage chamber can be made larger than that of the first embodiment. By increasing the volume of the storage chamber, the volume capable of trapping air bubbles generated in the recording head during recording operation increases. This allows the time during which continuous printing can be performed to be increased compared to the first embodiment.

[0104] Furthermore, the storage chamber inherently functions as a buffer chamber when the film is bent due to the influence of the atmosphere. By increasing the volume of the storage chamber compared to the first embodiment, the function of the storage chamber as a buffer chamber can be strengthened compared to the first embodiment.

[0105] Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of the pressure adjustment mechanism in this embodiment, it is possible to form a larger convex portion on the film than in Embodiment 1. Furthermore, according to the pressure adjustment mechanism in this embodiment, it is possible to improve the reliability of pressure adjustment during recording operation as compared to the conventional technology.

[0106] [Other embodiments] In the first and second embodiments, ink is given as an example of the liquid. Other examples of the liquid to which the technology of the present disclosure can be applied include various recording liquids including treatment liquids used for the purpose of improving the fixation of ink on a recording medium, reducing uneven gloss, or improving abrasion resistance.

[0107] In the first and second embodiments, four colors of ink are used. However, in the technology disclosed herein, the types of liquid that can be used are not limited to the four colors of ink described above. Three or less colors, five or more colors of ink including colors other than the four colors described above may be used.

[0108] In the first and second embodiments, cut paper is given as an example of the recording medium, but other examples of the recording medium include recording media of various materials and shapes, such as roll paper, cloth, optical disc label surfaces, plastic sheets, overhead projector sheets, and envelopes.

[0109] In the first and second embodiments, a so-called serial scan type recording device is exemplified, which performs recording by moving a recording head mechanism back and forth and conveying a recording medium intermittently. However, the recording device to which the technology of the present disclosure can be applied is not limited to this example. The technology of the present disclosure can also be applied to a so-called full line type recording device, which performs recording on a continuously conveyed recording medium using a long recording head in which ejection openings are provided in an area corresponding to the width of the recording medium.

[0110] In the first and second embodiments, it is possible to refill the tank with liquid from the outside. However, examples of tanks to which the technology of the present disclosure can be applied are not limited to this. The technology of the present disclosure can be applied even in the case of a tank in which, when the liquid in the cartridge is used up, the cartridge is replaced with a new cartridge in which the liquid is stored.

[0111] In the first and second embodiments, a so-called off-carriage type recording device in which a tank is installed at a position away from a recording head mechanism is exemplified. The technology disclosed herein can also be applied to a so-called on-carriage type recording device in which a cartridge in which liquid is stored is mounted on a carriage.

[0112] In the first and second embodiments, the pressure adjustment mechanism is mounted on the carriage and moves together with the print head. However, the form to which the technology of the present disclosure can be applied is not limited to such a form. The pressure adjustment mechanism may be fixed in the main body of the printing apparatus, separate from the carriage and the print head.

[0113] In the first and second embodiments, the base film layer is made of a stretched PET film having a higher rigidity than the sheet of the prior art. As another example of the material constituting the base film layer, a film having a lower rigidity than the stretched PET film may be used. Even when a film that is relatively easy to stretch is used, the technology of the present disclosure can be applied.

[0114] The present disclosure includes the following methods and compositions.

[0115] [Method 1] A method for manufacturing a pressure adjustment mechanism capable of adjusting a pressure of a liquid, comprising the steps of: A step of preparing a main body having an elastic body disposed in a recess and a flexible film having a plate member fixed thereto; a welding step of welding the film to the main body so as to cover the recess while shrinking the elastic body by the plate member; a forming process of forming the film by moving the plate member in a direction opposite to the recess while sucking the portion of the film to which the plate member is fixed in a state in which the film is welded to the main body; A method for manufacturing a pressure adjustment mechanism comprising the steps of:

[0116] [Method 2] Further comprising a removing step of removing unnecessary portions of the film after the forming step. The method of manufacture described in method 1.

[0117] [Method 3] The film includes a welding layer and a base film layer, each having a different melting point; In the welding step, the welding layer and a rib formed on the peripheral portion of the opening of the recess are heated to be compatible with each other. The method for producing a product according to method 1 or 2.

[0118] [Method 4] The rib is formed in an annular shape on the periphery of the recess, The plate member is disk-shaped, In the welding step and the molding step, the center of the ring formed by the annularly arranged rib and the center of the plate member overlap on the same axis. A manufacturing method according to any one of methods 1 to 3.

[0119] [Method 5] The welding layer and the rib include polypropylene. The method according to any one of methods 3 and 4.

[0120] [Method 6] The base film layer is laminated to the welding layer, The welding layer comprises a non-oriented polypropylene film, The base film layer comprises a stretched polyethylene terephthalate film; 6. A method for producing a composition according to any one of methods 3 to 5.

[0121] [Method 7] The base film layer further comprises aluminum or silica vapor-deposited on the stretched polyethylene terephthalate film. The method of production according to method 6.

[0122] [Method 8] In the forming step, the part of the film moves 0.9 mm from the welded part between the film and the main body in the direction opposite to the recess. A method for producing a compound according to any one of methods 1 to 7.

[0123] [Method 9] The method further includes a pushing step between the welding step and the molding step, in which a region between the welded portion of the film with the main body and the plate member is pushed toward the recessed portion. A method for producing a compound according to any one of methods 1 to 8.

[0124] [Method 10] In the forming step, a portion of the film moves 1.8 mm from the welded portion between the film and the main body in a direction opposite to the recess. The method of manufacture described in method 9.

[0125] [Method 11] The elastic body is a spring that biases the recess and the plate member in a direction separating them from each other. A method for producing a product according to any one of methods 1 to 10.

[0126] [Method 12] the pressure adjustment mechanism is disposed in an inkjet recording apparatus in order to adjust the pressure of ink supplied to a recording head; 12. A method for producing a composition according to any one of methods 1 to 11.

[0127] [Method 13] The body includes: A valve chamber molded inside the body; a supply flow path capable of supplying liquid to the valve chamber; a connecting flow passage connecting the valve chamber and the recess; a valve mechanism disposed in the valve chamber and capable of opening and closing the connecting flow path; A discharge flow path capable of discharging liquid from the recess, The method of manufacture according to method 12.

[0128] [Configuration 1] A pressure adjustment mechanism for adjusting the pressure of a liquid, A body having a recess capable of containing a liquid and a rib protruding from a periphery of the recess; a flexible film including a first layer that is stretchable and a second layer that is difficult to stretch, the second layer being welded to the rib so as to close the recess; an elastic body that is disposed in the recess and biases the plate member fixed to the film in a direction away from the recess; Equipped with The film has a flexible portion surrounding the plate member between a welded portion where the second layer and the rib are welded and the plate member. A pressure adjustment mechanism characterized by:

[0129] [Configuration 2] The pressure adjustment mechanism according to configuration 1, a recording head capable of ejecting the liquid, the pressure of which has been adjusted by the pressure adjustment mechanism, onto a recording medium; Equipped with A recording head mechanism comprising:

[0130] [Configuration 3] A recording head mechanism according to configuration 2; a tank capable of storing a liquid to be supplied to the pressure adjustment mechanism; Equipped with A recording apparatus comprising:

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a pressure adjustment mechanism capable of adjusting a pressure of a liquid, comprising the steps of: A step of preparing a main body having an elastic body disposed in a recess and a flexible film having a plate member fixed thereto; a welding step of welding the film to the main body so as to cover the recess while shrinking the elastic body by the plate member; a forming process of forming the film by moving the plate member in a direction opposite to the recess while sucking the portion of the film to which the plate member is fixed in a state in which the film is welded to the main body; A method for manufacturing a pressure adjustment mechanism comprising:

2. Further comprising a removing step of removing unnecessary portions of the film after the forming step. The method of claim 1 .

3. The film includes a welding layer and a base film layer, each having a different melting point; In the welding step, the welding layer and a rib formed on the peripheral portion of the opening of the recess are heated to be compatible with each other. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The rib is formed in an annular shape on the periphery of the recess, The plate member is disk-shaped, In the welding step and the molding step, the center of the ring formed by the annularly arranged rib and the center of the plate member overlap on the same axis. The method according to claim 3.

5. The welding layer and the rib include polypropylene. The method according to claim 3.

6. The base film layer is laminated to the welding layer, The welding layer comprises a non-oriented polypropylene film, The base film layer comprises a stretched polyethylene terephthalate film; The method according to claim 3.

7. The base film layer further comprises aluminum or silica vapor-deposited on the stretched polyethylene terephthalate film. The method according to claim 6.

8. In the forming step, a portion of the film moves 0.9 mm from a welded portion between the film and the main body in a direction opposite to the recess. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The method further includes a pushing step between the welding step and the molding step, in which a region between the welded portion of the film with the main body and the plate member is pushed toward the recessed portion. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

10. In the forming step, the part of the film moves 1.8 mm from the welded part between the film and the main body in a direction opposite to the recess. The method of claim 9.

11. The elastic body is a spring that biases the recess and the plate member in a direction separating them from each other. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

12. the pressure adjustment mechanism is disposed in an inkjet recording apparatus in order to adjust the pressure of ink supplied to a recording head; The method according to claim 1 or 2.

13. The body includes: A valve chamber molded inside the body; a supply flow path capable of supplying liquid to the valve chamber; a connecting flow passage connecting the valve chamber and the recess; a valve mechanism disposed in the valve chamber and capable of opening and closing the connecting flow path; A discharge flow path capable of discharging liquid from the recess, The method of claim 12.

14. A pressure adjustment mechanism for adjusting the pressure of a liquid, A body having a recess capable of containing a liquid and a rib protruding from a peripheral portion of the recess; a flexible film including a first layer that is stretchable and a second layer that is difficult to stretch, the second layer being welded to the rib so as to close the recess; an elastic body that is disposed in the recess and biases the plate member fixed to the film in a direction away from the recess; Equipped with the film has a flexible portion surrounding the plate member between a welded portion where the second layer and the rib are welded and the plate member, A pressure adjustment mechanism characterized by:

15. The pressure adjustment mechanism according to claim 14; a recording head capable of ejecting the liquid, the pressure of which has been adjusted by the pressure adjustment mechanism, onto a recording medium; Equipped with A recording head mechanism comprising:

16. A recording head mechanism according to claim 15; a tank capable of storing a liquid to be supplied to the pressure adjustment mechanism; Equipped with A recording device comprising:

Images