Liquid ejection head and recording device

Abstract

To provide a liquid ejection head which enables further reduction of a thickness compared to conventional arts even when a plurality of passages are disposed therein.SOLUTION: In a used state of a liquid ejection head, a first upstream flow channel has a first region which is located above a first downstream flow channel in a vertical direction and where a sectional area of the first upstream flow channel becomes smaller downward from the upper side in the vertical direction. A second upstream flow channel has a second region which is located above a second downstream flow channel in the vertical direction and where a sectional area of the second upstream flow channel becomes smaller downward from the upper side in the vertical direction. When viewed from the first direction, the first downstream flow channel and the second downstream flow channel do not overlap with each other and the first region and the second region overlap with each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a liquid ejection head and a recording apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art In a recording apparatus that performs recording by discharging liquid onto a recording medium, a liquid storage chamber and a liquid discharge portion are integrated, and a liquid discharge head that is detachable from the recording apparatus is sometimes used.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an inkjet recording cartridge (also called a liquid ejection head) that includes a plurality of storage sections (storage chambers) that store liquid, and an inkjet recording head (ejection section) that ejects the liquid to perform recording. Patent Document 1 also discloses that a plurality of supply paths (flow paths) that supply liquid from the storage sections are configured between each of the plurality of storage chambers and the ejection section, and each of these supply paths is connected to the ejection section. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2008-260199 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in a liquid ejection head in which a plurality of flow paths are arranged at high density as in Patent Document 1, it is difficult to reduce the width of the liquid ejection head body while suppressing the generation of air bubbles.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a liquid ejection head that is capable of suppressing the generation of air bubbles even when multiple flow paths are arranged, and that can be made thinner than conventional techniques. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, a liquid ejection head according to the present disclosure includes a first ejection port array and a second ejection port array arranged in parallel to each other, each having a plurality of ejection ports for ejecting liquid arranged in a first direction, a first filter for filtering liquid supplied to the first ejection port array, a second filter for filtering liquid supplied to the second ejection port array, a first flow path for supplying liquid from the first filter to the first ejection port array, and a second flow path for supplying liquid from the second filter to the second ejection port array, wherein the first flow path includes a first downstream flow path communicating with the first ejection port array, and a first upstream flow path communicating with the first filter and the first downstream flow path, and the second flow path is a first flow path connected to the second ejection port array. and a second downstream flow path communicating with the second filter and the second downstream flow path, wherein, when the liquid ejection head is in a used state, the first upstream flow path is located vertically above the first downstream flow path and has a first region in which a cross-sectional area of ​​the first upstream flow path decreases from above to below in the vertical direction, and the second upstream flow path is located vertically above the second downstream flow path and has a second region in which a cross-sectional area of ​​the second upstream flow path decreases from above to below in the vertical direction, and when viewed from the first direction, the first downstream flow path and the second downstream flow path do not overlap, and the first region and the second region are arranged to overlap. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the liquid ejection head of the present disclosure, even when a plurality of flow paths are arranged, it is possible to suppress the generation of air bubbles, and the liquid ejection head can be made thinner than that of the prior art. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a recording apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a cartridge according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing an example of a cartridge according to an embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of a flow path portion according to an embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a flow path portion according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow path according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow path according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow path according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an overlapping portion according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an example of a case according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an example of a storage chamber according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an example of an ejection port array according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow path according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a flow path portion in the prior art. [Figure 15] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a fluctuation pressure according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] 5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing the cartridge according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a cartridge according to an embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of a flow path portion according to an embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a flow path portion according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] [First embodiment] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an inkjet printing apparatus (hereinafter, also referred to as a printing apparatus) 102 to which this embodiment can be applied.

[0012] In the figure, the X direction indicates the scanning direction of the carriage. The Y direction indicates the transport direction of the recording medium. The Z direction indicates the vertical upward direction. Note that in the following figures for explaining the cartridge alone (liquid ejection head alone), the same XYZ axes as in this figure are shown based on the case where the cartridge (hereinafter also referred to as the liquid ejection head) is mounted on a recording device. Note that the longitudinal direction (depth direction) of the cartridge when mounted on the recording device is the Y direction. The lateral direction (width direction) of the cartridge is the X direction. The vertical direction (height direction) of the cartridge is the Z direction.

[0013] The recording device 102 is configured so that the cartridge 100 can be mounted on the carriage 101, and performs recording by discharging liquid (hereinafter also referred to as ink) while the cartridge 100 mounted on the carriage 101 moves relative to a recording medium 103. In other words, the recording device 102 is a recording device equipped with a serial type liquid discharge head. In discharging, the carriage 101 discharges liquid from the cartridge 100 while moving back and forth in the X direction. In synchronization with the discharge of liquid from the cartridge 100, the recording medium 103 is transported by a predetermined amount in a direction (Y direction) that intersects (in this example, perpendicular) with the direction in which the carriage 101 moves back and forth, thereby forming an image on the recording medium 103.

[0014] FIG. 2 is an external perspective view showing the cartridge 100, and FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the cartridge 100. The cartridge 100 includes a recording element substrate 303 for ejecting liquid, a case 200 in which a storage chamber 302 for storing liquid is formed, and a lid 201. A filter 301 and an absorbent 300 for storing the stored liquid are stored in the storage chamber 302. The liquid stored in the absorbent 300 is supplied to the ejection port of the recording element substrate 303 through a flow path portion (not shown in FIGS. 2 and 3) communicating with the storage chamber 302. In this embodiment, the absorbent 300 is inserted into the storage chamber 302 as a negative pressure generating means for holding the liquid, but the liquid can be similarly held in a configuration in which a negative pressure generating unit such as a pressure control unit or a circulation unit is adopted.

[0015] The storage chamber 302 of this embodiment includes a first storage chamber 302A capable of storing a first type of liquid, a second storage chamber 302B capable of storing a second type of liquid different from the first type of liquid, and a third storage chamber 302C capable of storing a third type of liquid different from the first and second types of liquid. The first storage chamber 302A, the second storage chamber 302B, and the third storage chamber 302C are linearly arranged adjacent to each other along the depth direction (Y direction) of the cartridge 100.

[0016] The first storage chamber 302A, the second storage chamber 302B, and the third storage chamber 302C are provided with a dust trap filter 301A, a filter 301B, and a filter 301C. In this embodiment, a first ejection port array that ejects a first type of liquid, a second ejection port array that ejects a second type of liquid, and a third ejection port array that ejects a third type of liquid are formed, as will be described in detail later. The filter 301A is configured to be capable of filtering the liquid supplied to the first ejection port array. The filter 301B is configured to be capable of filtering the liquid supplied to the second ejection port array. The filter 301C is configured to be capable of filtering the liquid supplied to the third ejection port array.

[0017] The liquid contained in the storage chambers 302 is generally color ink, with cyan, magenta, and yellow inks contained in each storage chamber. Note that, in this embodiment, the cartridge 100 is described taking as an example a configuration having three storage chambers 302, but this is not limited thereto, and this embodiment can also be applied to cases in which there are two or less, four or more storage chambers. For example, the concept is the same for a four-color integrated cartridge including black.

[0018] In FIG. 3, three absorbers 300A, 300B, and 300C are shown for cyan, magenta, and yellow. The absorber 300 is preferably shaped like a cube in terms of liquid supply. However, when changing the size of the absorber 300 in consideration of the amount of liquid to be contained, it is preferable to stretch it in the direction of gravity (Z direction). If the size of the absorber 300 is increased in the scanning direction (X direction), the width of the cartridge 100 increases, leading to an increase in the size of the entire device. Furthermore, if the size of the absorber 300 is increased in the arrangement direction of the ejection ports (Y direction), the flow path from the absorber 300 to the recording element substrate 303 becomes longer, which is undesirable because it increases the flow resistance when supplying liquid.

[0019] The absorber 300 is made of a fibrous or porous material, and is capable of holding ink therein by exerting a capillary force. The absorber 300 is housed in the housing chamber 302 of the case 200 in contact with the filter 301, and the liquid in the absorber 300 is supplied to the recording element substrate 303 via the filter 301 and the flow path portion.

[0020] The recording element substrate 303 is an ejection portion that ejects ink, and is disposed on the bottom surface of the case 200 below the direction of gravity. The recording element substrate 303 is disposed near the lower portion of the absorber 300A and the absorber 300B, and is located away from the absorber 300C. The case 200 has a box portion 307 in which the storage chamber 302 is formed, and a flow path forming portion 306 that protrudes from the box portion 307 in the -Z direction, and the recording element substrate 303 is attached to the -Z direction side of the flow path forming portion 306. Specifically, the recording element substrate 303 includes an element (e.g., a heater or a piezoelectric element) that applies energy to the liquid to eject the liquid. The recording element substrate 303 is attached to a recording element arrangement portion formed on a member that constitutes the flow path forming portion 306. That is, the recording element substrate 303 is disposed on the bottom surface of the entire cartridge 100, and ejects the liquid in a state close to the recording medium 103 during liquid ejection.

[0021] The lid 201 is disposed so as to close the opening of the case 200, and defines a storage chamber 302 in which the absorbent 300 is stored. The lid 201 is provided with an air communication port (not shown), and air can be taken in from the outside to compensate for the amount of liquid consumed by the absorbent 300 through discharge.

[0022] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the flow path section 400, which is a model of the space in the case that serves as a liquid flow path. FIG. 5(a) is a top view of the flow path section 400, FIG. 5(b) is a side view of the flow path section 400, and FIG. 5(c) is a front view of the flow path section 400. The horizontal section 708 and the horizontal section 808 shown in FIG. 5(a) will be described later. The flow path section 400 is a model of the ink flow path, and includes flow paths (400A, 400B, and 400C) for three colors. Each flow path is independent, and specifically, as shown in FIG. 5(a), the flow path 400A, the flow path 400B, and the flow path 400C are arranged in this order along the Y direction. In this way, the flow path section 400 is configured to be able to supply the liquid in the storage chamber 302 (see FIG. 3) to the recording element substrate 303 (see FIG. 3).

[0023] As shown in Figures 4 and 5(b), when the cartridge is viewed in the depth direction, the tapered portions formed in each of the multiple connecting flow paths arranged in the width direction of the cartridge are arranged to face in opposite directions alternately along the depth direction. In the flow path section 400, the tip portions (portions with the smallest height (length in the Z direction)) of the multiple connecting flow paths adjacent in the width direction of the cartridge are arranged to face in opposite directions alternately along the depth direction of the cartridge. The connecting flow paths and tapered portions of the flow path section 400 will be described later.

[0024] Fig. 6(a) is a top view of the flow path 400A, Fig. 6(b) is a side view of the flow path 400A, and Fig. 6(c) is a front view of the flow path 400A. Fig. 7(a) is a top view of the flow path 400B, Fig. 7(b) is a side view of the flow path 400B, and Fig. 7(c) is a front view of the flow path 400B. Fig. 8(a) is a top view of the flow path 400C, Fig. 8(b) is a side view of the flow path 400C, Fig. 8(c) is a front view of the flow path 400C, and Fig. 8(d) is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIIID-VIIID in Fig. 8(a).

[0025] 6(a) to 6(c), flow path 400A includes a first opening 600 covered by filter 301A (see FIG. 3), and a first storage portion 601. Flow path 400A includes a second storage portion 602, a second opening 609 connecting first storage portion 601 and second storage portion 602, and a connection flow path 607 connecting to recording element substrate 303 (see FIG. 3). When the liquid ejection head (cartridge) is in use, a second opening 609 communicating with second storage portion 602 is formed in the uppermost surface of first storage portion 601.

[0026] In this embodiment, it is possible to store air bubbles, and when the cartridge is viewed along the direction in which the horizontal portion (described later) extends, a space having a width larger than the width of the connection portion (e.g., connection flow paths 607, 707, and 807) is called a "storage portion." For example, the first storage portion 601 and the second storage portion 602 are wider than other regions, and can store air bubbles generated by ejection or the like above the liquid surface.

[0027] When the cartridge is attached to the recording device, the first storage section 601 has a tapered section 604 in which an opening 633 at an upper end in the vertical direction is larger than an opening 634 at a lower end. When the cartridge is attached to the recording device, the second storage section 602 is disposed so as to extend along the vertical direction.

[0028] When the cartridge is attached to the recording device, the second storage section 602 has a tapered section (first tapered section 605 and second tapered section 606) in which a first opening 600 at an upper end in the vertical direction is larger than a second opening 609 at a lower end. The first storage section 601 is disposed between the connection flow path 607 and the second storage section 602. The second storage section 602 is disposed between the first storage section 601 and the first storage chamber 302A (see FIG. 3).

[0029] The first opening 600 is an opening for receiving the liquid that has passed through the filter 301A, and is located on the bottom surface of the storage chamber 302 (see FIG. 3) that stores the absorber 300A. The first storage section 601 and the second storage section 602 are configured so that the space becomes wider as it goes vertically upward. Specifically, the first storage section 601 is provided with a tapered section 604 so that the space becomes wider as it goes vertically upward, and the second storage section 602 is provided with a first tapered section 605 and a second tapered section 606. With this configuration, air bubbles generated in the flow path can be collected by utilizing buoyancy and prevented from approaching the discharge port.

[0030] In this embodiment, second storage section 602 is provided with a plurality of partition walls 603. Each of the plurality of partition walls 603 divides the interior of second storage section 602 into a plurality of spaces that are connected to each other. Two adjacent partition walls 603 are desirably disposed with a distance of 1 mm or more. Also, the interior of second storage section 602 is desirably divided into two or more spaces. It is more preferable that the number of spaces formed inside second storage section 602 is large.

[0031] By dividing the inside of the second storage section 602 into a plurality of spaces, the movement of air bubbles to another compartment is suppressed. By dividing the inside of the second storage section 602 into a plurality of spaces, even if one space is blocked for some reason, a flow path is secured by the other spaces. This makes it possible to suppress poor liquid supply when liquid is supplied downstream (vertically downward).

[0032] In order to move the air bubbles to the filter side in a narrow space, the second storage section 602 is formed with a two-stage taper of a first taper section 605 and a second taper section 606. In the first taper section 605, the angle is preferably 10 degrees or more and 80 degrees or less, more preferably 20 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less, and even more preferably 30 degrees or more and 50 degrees or less, with respect to the horizontal direction (X direction) so that the air bubbles are moved upward while the meniscus is not stretched. In addition, in the second storage section 602, it is necessary to shorten the distance from the space of the second storage section 602 to the filter 301A to increase the flow rate of the ink flowing during a recovery operation such as suction. Therefore, the angle of the second taper section 606 is preferably 45 degrees or less, more preferably 30 degrees or less, and even more preferably 20 degrees or less, with respect to the horizontal direction.

[0033] The first reservoir 601 is connected to a connection flow path 607, and an opening 635 formed at the lower end of the connection flow path 607 is connected to an ejection port array in the recording element substrate 303 (see FIG. 3).

[0034] In this embodiment, the second storage section 602 includes an opening 631 located at the upper end of the first tapered section 605 and an opening 632 located at the lower end of the first tapered section 605. The area of ​​the opening 631 is larger than the area of ​​the opening 632. For example, the area of ​​the opening 631 is preferably 1.5 times or more the area of ​​the opening 632. This is to store the generated air bubbles and suppress the air bubbles from flowing into the ejection port array.

[0035] The first storage portion 601 includes an opening 633 located at an upper end of the first storage portion 601 and an opening 634 located at a lower end of the first storage portion 601. The area of ​​the opening 633 is larger than the area of ​​the opening 634. For example, the area of ​​the opening 633 is preferably 1.2 times or more the area of ​​the opening 634. This is to store the generated air bubbles and suppress the air bubbles from flowing into the ejection port array.

[0036] In the connecting flow path 607, a third tapered portion 621 and a wall surface 622 are formed in order to facilitate discharging air bubbles in the liquid present inside the connecting flow path 607 from the opening 635 during the recovery operation. The wall surface 622 extends perpendicularly to the bottom side from one end of the bottom side of the connecting flow path 607, and is connected to the first storage portion 601.

[0037] A third tapered portion 621 is formed in the connection flow path 607 so that the length "L61" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the first storage portion 601 is smaller than the length "L62" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the portion of the connection flow path 607 that connects to the recording element substrate 303. The opening 634 is formed vertically below (directly below) the second opening 609. This makes it easier to move the air bubbles upward in the vertical direction. In order to move the air bubbles upward in the vertical direction in a narrow space, it is preferable that the third tapered portion 621 has two inclined surfaces formed at different angles relative to the opening 635.

[0038] In this embodiment, third tapered portion 621 includes a first inclined portion and a second inclined portion. The first inclined portion is formed from one end in the depth direction of connection flow channel 607 toward first storage portion 601, and is inclined at a first angle with respect to opening 635. The second inclined portion is formed continuously from the other end in the depth direction of the first inclined portion toward first storage portion 601, and is inclined at a second angle with respect to opening 635 that is smaller than the first angle.

[0039] It is preferable that the first storage section 601 is formed as large as possible in order to store a larger number of bubbles. Therefore, the first storage section 601 is formed so as to become larger from the opening 634 toward the opening 633. In addition, the relationship between the length "L61" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the second opening 609 and the length "L62" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the opening 635 can be expressed by the following formula.

[0040] (Formula 1)...L62>L61×2

[0041] Specifically, the depth direction length "L62" of the opening 635 connecting the connection flow path 607 and the recording element substrate is more than twice the depth direction length "L61" of the opening 634 connecting the connection flow path 607 and the first storage section 601.

[0042] 7(a) to 7(c), flow path 400B includes first opening 700 in which filter 301B is provided, first storage section 701, second storage section 702, second opening 709 connecting first storage section 701 and second storage section 702, and connecting flow path 707. First storage section 701 having tapered section 704 is disposed below horizontal section 708.

[0043] Second storage section 702 is provided with a plurality of partition walls 703. Each of the plurality of partition walls 703 divides the interior of second storage section 702 into a plurality of spaces that are connected to each other. Two adjacent partition walls 703 are desirably disposed with a distance of 1 mm or more. Also, the interior of second storage section 702 is desirably divided into two or more spaces. It is more preferable that the number of spaces formed inside second storage section 702 is large.

[0044] By dividing the inside of the second storage section 702 into a plurality of spaces, the movement of air bubbles to another compartment is suppressed. By dividing the inside of the second storage section 702 into a plurality of spaces, even if one space is blocked for some reason, a flow path is secured by the other spaces. This makes it possible to suppress poor liquid supply when liquid is supplied downstream (vertically downward).

[0045] The first opening 700 is an opening that receives the liquid that has passed through the filter 301B (see FIG. 3), and is located on the bottom surface of the storage chamber 302 (see FIG. 3) that stores the absorber 300B (see FIG. 3). The first storage section 701 provided near the nozzle row and the second storage section 702 provided near the storage chamber are connected via the second opening 709 and a horizontal section 708 extending in the Y direction. The first storage section 701 and the second storage section 702 are configured so that the space becomes wider as it goes vertically upward. The first storage section 701 is provided with a tapered section 704 to make the space wider as it goes vertically upward, and the second storage section 702 is provided with a first tapered section 705 and a second tapered section 706. With this configuration, air bubbles generated in the flow path can be collected by utilizing buoyancy and prevented from approaching the discharge port.

[0046] In order to move the air bubbles to the filter side in a narrow space, the second storage section 702 is formed with a two-stage taper of a first taper section 705 and a second taper section 706. In the first taper section 705, the angle is preferably 10 degrees or more and 80 degrees or less, more preferably 20 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less, and even more preferably 30 degrees or more and 50 degrees or less, with respect to the horizontal direction (X direction) so that the air bubbles are moved upward while the meniscus is not stretched. In addition, in the second storage section 702, it is necessary to shorten the distance from the space of the second storage section 702 to the filter 301B to increase the flow rate of the ink flowing during a recovery operation such as suction. Therefore, the angle of the second taper section 706 is preferably 45 degrees or less, more preferably 30 degrees or less, and even more preferably 20 degrees or less, with respect to the horizontal direction.

[0047] The first reservoir 701 is connected to a connection flow path 707 , and an opening 735 formed at the lower end of the connection flow path 707 is connected to an ejection port array in the recording element substrate 303 .

[0048] The second reservoir 702 includes an opening 731 located at the upper end of the first tapered portion 705 and an opening 732 located at the lower end of the first tapered portion 705. The area of ​​the opening 731 is larger than the area of ​​the opening 732. For example, the area of ​​the opening 731 is preferably 1.5 times or more the area of ​​the opening 732. This is to store the generated air bubbles and prevent the air bubbles from flowing into the ejection port array.

[0049] The first storage portion 701 includes an opening 733 located at an upper end of the first storage portion 701 and an opening 734 located at a lower end of the first storage portion 701. The area of ​​the opening 733 is larger than the area of ​​the opening 734. For example, the area of ​​the opening 733 is preferably 1.2 times or more the area of ​​the opening 734. This is to store the generated air bubbles and prevent the air bubbles from flowing into the ejection port array.

[0050] In connection flow path 707, a third tapered portion 721 and a wall surface 722 are formed in order to facilitate discharging air bubbles in the liquid present inside connection flow path 707 from opening 735 during the recovery operation. Wall surface 722 extends perpendicularly to the bottom side from one end of the bottom side of connection flow path 707, and is connected to first storage portion 701.

[0051] A third tapered portion 721 is formed in the connection flow path 707 so that the length "L71" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the first storage portion 701 is smaller than the length "L72" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the portion of the connection flow path 707 that connects to the recording element substrate 303. A plurality of openings 734 are biased and arranged at positions closer to the opening 733 along the Y direction. In the third tapered portion 721, it is preferable to form two-stage inclined surfaces each having a different angle with respect to the opening 735.

[0052] In this embodiment, the third tapered portion 721 includes a first inclined portion and a second inclined portion. The first inclined portion is inclined at a first angle with respect to the opening 735. The second inclined portion is inclined at a second angle with respect to the opening 735 that is smaller than the first angle.

[0053] It is preferable that the first storage section 701 is formed as large as possible in order to store a larger number of bubbles. Therefore, the first storage section 701 is formed so as to become larger from the opening 734 toward the opening 733. In addition, the relationship between the length "L71" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the second opening 709 and the length "L72" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the opening 735 can be expressed by the following formula.

[0054] (Formula 2)...L72>L71×2

[0055] Specifically, the depth direction length "L72" of the opening 735 connecting the connection flow path 707 and the recording element substrate is more than twice the depth direction length "L71" of the opening 734 connecting the connection flow path 707 and the first storage section 701.

[0056] As shown in Figures 8(a) to 8(d), the flow path 400C includes a first opening 800 in which a filter 301C (see Figure 3) is provided, a first storage section 801, a second storage section 802, a second opening 809 connecting the first storage section 801 and the second storage section 802, and a connecting flow path 807.

[0057] Second storage section 802 is provided with a plurality of partition walls 803. Each of the plurality of partition walls 803 divides the interior of second storage section 802 into a plurality of spaces that are connected to each other. Two adjacent partition walls 803 are desirably disposed with a distance of 1 mm or more. Also, the interior of second storage section 802 is desirably divided into two or more spaces. It is more preferable that the number of spaces formed inside second storage section 802 is large.

[0058] By dividing the inside of second storage section 802 into a plurality of spaces, the movement of air bubbles to another compartment is suppressed. By dividing the inside of second storage section 802 into a plurality of spaces, even if one space is blocked for some reason, a flow path is secured by the other spaces. This makes it possible to suppress poor liquid supply when liquid is supplied downstream.

[0059] The first opening 800 is an opening that receives the liquid that has passed through the filter 301C, and is located on the bottom surface of the storage chamber 302 that stores the absorber 300C. The first storage section 801 provided near the nozzle row and the second storage section 802 provided near the storage chamber are connected via a second opening 809 and a horizontal section 808 extending in the Y direction. The first storage section 801 and the second storage section 802 are configured so that the space becomes wider as they go vertically upward. The first storage section 801 is provided with a tapered section 804 to make the space wider as they go vertically upward, and the second storage section 802 is provided with a first tapered section 805 and a second tapered section 806. With this configuration, air bubbles generated in the flow path can be collected by utilizing buoyancy and prevented from approaching the discharge port.

[0060] In order to move the air bubbles to the filter side in a narrow space, the second storage section 802 is formed with a two-stage taper of a first taper section 805 and a second taper section 806. In the first taper section 805, the angle is preferably 10 degrees or more and 80 degrees or less, more preferably 20 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less, and even more preferably 30 degrees or more and 50 degrees or less, relative to the horizontal direction so as to move the air bubbles upward while preventing the meniscus from stretching. In addition, in the second storage section 802, it is necessary to shorten the distance from the space of the second storage section 802 to the filter 301C to increase the flow rate of the ink flowing during a recovery operation such as suction. Therefore, the angle of the second taper section 806 is preferably 45 degrees or less, more preferably 30 degrees or less, and even more preferably 20 degrees or less, relative to the horizontal direction.

[0061] A horizontal portion 808 is provided below the second opening 809. The first storage portion 801 having the tapered portion 804 is disposed below the horizontal portion 808. The horizontal portion 808 extends in the depth direction (Y direction) of the cartridge. The tip of the horizontal portion 808 is connected to the third opening 810C. The third opening 810C is connected to the ejection port array in the recording element substrate via the first storage portion 801 and the connection flow path 807. With such a configuration in which the horizontal portion 808 is provided, the degree of freedom of arrangement in the storage chamber 302 is improved compared to the conventional technology.

[0062] The second reservoir 802 includes an opening 831 located at the upper end of the first tapered portion 805 and an opening 832 located at the lower end of the first tapered portion 805. The area of ​​the opening 831 is larger than the area of ​​the opening 832. For example, the area of ​​the opening 831 is preferably 1.5 times or more the area of ​​the opening 832. This is to store the generated air bubbles and prevent the air bubbles from flowing into the ejection port array.

[0063] First storage portion 801 includes an opening 833 located at an upper end of first storage portion 801 and an opening 834 located at a lower end of first storage portion 801. The area of ​​opening 833 is larger than the area of ​​opening 834. For example, the area of ​​opening 833 is preferably 1.2 times or more the area of ​​opening 834. This is to store generated air bubbles and prevent the air bubbles from flowing into the ejection port array.

[0064] In connection flow channel 807, third tapered portion 821 and wall surface 822 are formed in order to facilitate discharging air bubbles in the liquid present inside connection flow channel 807 from opening 835 during the recovery operation. Wall surface 822 extends perpendicularly to the bottom side from one end of the bottom side of connection flow channel 807, and is connected to first storage section 801.

[0065] A third tapered portion 821 is formed in the connection flow path 807 so that the length "L81" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the first storage portion 801 is smaller than the length "L82" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the portion of the connection flow path 807 that connects to the recording element substrate 303. A plurality of openings 834 are biasedly arranged at a position closer to the opening 833 along the Y direction. In order to move the air bubbles upward in the vertical direction in a narrow space, it is preferable that the third tapered portion 821 has two inclined surfaces formed at different angles relative to the opening 835.

[0066] In this embodiment, the third tapered portion 821 includes a first inclined portion and a second inclined portion. The first inclined portion is inclined at a first angle with respect to the opening 835. The second inclined portion is inclined at a second angle with respect to the opening 835 that is smaller than the first angle.

[0067] It is preferable that the first storage section 801 is formed as large as possible in order to store a larger number of bubbles. Therefore, the first storage section 801 is formed so as to become larger from the opening 834 toward the opening 833. In addition, the relationship between the length "L81" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the second opening 809 and the length "L82" in the depth direction (Y direction) of the opening 835 can be expressed by the following formula.

[0068] (Formula 3)...L82>L81×2

[0069] Specifically, the depth length "L82" of the opening 835 connecting the connection flow path 807 and the recording element substrate is more than twice the depth length "L81" of the opening 834 connecting the connection flow path 807 and the first storage section 801.

[0070] The first reservoir 801 is connected to a connection flow path 807 , and the connection flow path 807 is connected to an ejection port array in the recording element substrate 303 .

[0071] As shown in FIG. 8(d), a corner 808c is provided at the bottom of the horizontal portion 808. Even if air bubbles are generated, the corner 808c can trap the air bubbles due to the capillary force of the corner 808c, and the liquid can be supplied to the third opening 810C. Air bubbles have a tendency to accumulate in the upper part of the flow path. For this reason, it is preferable that the corner 808c is located vertically downward. Also, as long as the corner 808c can trap air bubbles, there should be at least one or more. However, it is more preferable that the number of corners 808c is large. The width "w" of the horizontal portion 808 is larger than the height "h" of the horizontal portion 808. This makes it possible to reduce the height of the entire cartridge and ensure the fluidity of the liquid when air bubbles are generated. In other words, by making the width "w" of the horizontal portion 808 larger than the height "h", it is possible to ensure the supply of liquid to the recording element substrate. For example, it is desirable for the ratio of the height "h" of horizontal portion 808 to the width "w" of horizontal portion 808 to be 1:1.5 or greater.

[0072] Fig. 9(a) is a schematic top view of the first storage section 601, the first storage section 701, and the first storage section 801. Fig. 9(b) is a schematic front view of the first storage section 601, the first storage section 701, and the first storage section 801.

[0073] 9(a), the first storage section 701 and the first storage section 801 adjacent to each other along the width direction (X direction) of the cartridge are disposed at positions not overlapping with the first storage section 601 in the depth direction (Y direction). In other words, the first storage section 701 and the first storage section 801 are disposed at positions not overlapping with the first storage section 601 when viewed in the X direction and the Z direction.

[0074] 9(b), when the cartridge is viewed in a predetermined direction, one of the storage portions included in each of the multiple flow paths overlaps with at least one other storage portion. In this example, when the first storage portion 601, the first storage portion 701, and the first storage portion 801 are observed in the depth direction (Y direction) of the cartridge, the first storage portion 701 and the first storage portion 801 have an overlapping portion 90 that overlaps with a part of the first storage portion 601.

[0075] In this manner, in this embodiment, the first flow path (flow path 400A (see FIG. 4)) includes a first downstream flow path (connecting flow path 607 (see FIGS. 6(a)-(c))) that communicates with the first outlet array (outlet array 1101A (see FIG. 12)). The first flow path includes a first filter (filter 301A (see FIG. 3)) and a first upstream flow path (a portion of flow path 400A other than connecting flow path 607) that communicates with the first downstream flow path.

[0076] The second flow path (flow path 400B (see FIG. 4)) includes a second downstream flow path (connecting flow path 707 (see FIGS. 7(a)-(c))) that communicates with the second outlet array (outlet array 1101B (see FIG. 12)). The second flow path includes a second filter (filter 301B (see FIG. 3)) and a second upstream flow path (a portion of flow path 400B other than connecting flow path 707) that communicates with the second downstream flow path.

[0077] When the liquid ejection head is in use, the first upstream flow path is located above the first downstream flow path in the vertical direction (Z direction), and includes a first region (e.g., first storage section 601) in which the cross-sectional area of ​​the first upstream flow path decreases from above to below in the vertical direction. The second upstream flow path is located above the second downstream flow path in the vertical direction, and includes a second region (e.g., first storage section 701) in which the cross-sectional area of ​​the second upstream flow path decreases from above to below in the vertical direction.

[0078] When the liquid ejection head is viewed from the front in the first direction, the first downstream flow path and the second downstream flow path do not overlap, and the first portion communicating with the first filter and the second portion communicating with the second filter are arranged to overlap. For example, when the liquid ejection head is viewed from the front in the Y direction, the connection flow path 607 and the connection flow path 707 do not overlap, and the second storage portion 602 communicating with filter 301A and the second storage portion 702 communicating with filter 301B are arranged to overlap.

[0079] With such an arrangement of the storage parts, it is possible to ensure a sufficient size for each of the three storage parts without making the size of the liquid ejection head (cartridge) in the width direction (X direction) too large. Note that, in this embodiment, the description has been given assuming that the flow path 400B is used as the second flow path, but the flow path 400C may be used as the second flow path. With this configuration, the same effect as when the flow path 400B is used can be obtained.

[0080] FIG. 10(a) is a top view showing the case 200 without accommodating the absorber and the filter. In the case 200, an opening 900A, an opening 900B, and an opening 900C are provided on the same line extending along the Y direction. The opening 900A is connected to the first opening 600 (see FIG. 6(a) to FIG. 6(c)). The opening 900B is connected to the first opening 700 (see FIG. 7(a) to FIG. 7(c)). The opening 900C is connected to the first opening 800 (see FIG. 8(a) to FIG. 8(c)). The openings 900A, 900B, and 900C are provided toward the -Y direction (upward in FIG. 10(a)) so that the lengths in the Y direction of the flow channels 400A (see FIG. 4), 400B (see FIG. 4), and 400C (see FIG. 4) are shortened, respectively. Also, ribs 901 are provided in each storage chamber 302 so that the chambers can communicate with the atmosphere even when an absorbent is inserted. Rib 901A is provided in the storage chamber 302 corresponding to opening 900A, rib 901B is provided in the storage chamber 302 corresponding to opening 900B, and rib 901C is provided in the storage chamber 302 corresponding to opening 900C.

[0081] In the storage chamber 302, the ribs 901 are disposed at positions close to the openings 900A, 900B, and 900C. This makes it possible to prevent liquid from leaking out of the lid 201 even if the air in the flow path portion 400 or the air in the gap between the absorber 300 and the storage chamber 302 expands due to environmental changes (temperature, air pressure).

[0082] Second opening 609 of flow path 400A is provided on center line C in the X direction of case 200. Second opening 709 of flow path 400B is provided offset in the -X direction from center line C, and rib 901B is disposed closer to second opening 709 (left side in the figure). Second opening 809 of flow path 400C is provided offset in the +X direction from center line C, and rib 901C is disposed closer to second opening 809 (right side in the figure).

[0083] The amount of deviation of the second opening 709 and the second opening 809 from the center line C is preferably in the range of 5% to 30% of the width of the filter 301 in the X direction, more preferably 10% to 25% and even more preferably 15% to 20%. In this embodiment, the second opening 709 and the second opening 809 are shifted in the X direction by ±1 mm (8.3%) for a filter width of 12 mm. If the amount of deviation of the second opening 609 is too large, it is not desirable because it becomes difficult to supply liquid from the side opposite to the direction in which the second opening 609 is shifted. Therefore, it is desirable to provide the second openings 609, 709, and 809 at a position close to the center line C as in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the shape of the second openings 609, 709, and 809 is a vertically long slit shape, but may be another shape. For example, the shape of the second openings 609, 709, and 809 may be a circle, an ellipse, or the like.

[0084] In this embodiment, the second opening 609 is shaped like a slit with two long sides extending parallel to the depth direction (Y direction) of the cartridge. The second opening 609 has corners 902A at the four corners of the opening. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the second opening 609 includes the corners 902A at least in part. In this way, by making the second opening 609 shaped like a slit, it is possible to prevent relatively large air bubbles from entering the flow path while ensuring the area of ​​the flow path. That is, by making the second opening 609 shaped like a slit, it is possible to more stably supply liquid to the ejection port.

[0085] In this embodiment, the second opening 709 is shaped like a slit with two long sides extending parallel to the depth direction (Y direction) of the cartridge. The second opening 709 has corners 902B at the four corners of the opening. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the second opening 709 includes the corners 902B at least in part. In this way, by making the second opening 709 shaped like a slit, it is possible to prevent relatively large air bubbles from entering the flow path while ensuring the area of ​​the flow path. That is, by making the second opening 709 shaped like a slit, it is possible to more stably supply liquid to the ejection port.

[0086] In this embodiment, the second opening 809 is shaped like a slit with two long sides extending parallel to the depth direction (Y direction) of the cartridge. The second opening 809 has corners 902C at the four corners of the opening. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the second opening 809 includes the corners 902C at least in part. In this way, by making the second opening 809 shaped like a slit, it is possible to prevent relatively large air bubbles from entering the flow path while ensuring the area of ​​the flow path. That is, by making the second opening 809 shaped like a slit, it is possible to more stably supply liquid to the ejection port.

[0087] Fig. 10(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line XB-XB in Fig. 10(a). The horizontal portion 708 and the horizontal portion 808 are formed by joining the first member constituting the flow path forming portion 306 and the second member constituting the box portion 307 in a state where a recess formed in the first member constituting the flow path forming portion 306 is aligned with a recess formed in the second member constituting the box portion 307. In detail, the resin 920 is poured into a space formed by recesses other than the recesses forming the horizontal portion 708 and the horizontal portion 808 between the flow path forming portion 306 and the box portion 307. As a result, the horizontal portion 708 and the horizontal portion 808 are formed, and the flow path forming portion 306 and the box portion 307 are fixed together.

[0088] According to such a joining method, the flow path including the horizontal portion 708 is formed inside the first member constituting the flow path forming portion 306 and the second member constituting the box portion 307. The flow path including the horizontal portion 808 is formed inside the first member constituting the flow path forming portion 306 and the second member constituting the box portion 307. The horizontal portion 708 and the horizontal portion 808 include a joining portion between the first member constituting the flow path forming portion 306 and the second member constituting the box portion 307. By joining the flow path forming portion 306 and the box portion 307 in this manner, it is possible to form a flow path without creating welding burrs or adhesive protrusions on the inner wall of the horizontal portion 708.

[0089] 11 is a top view showing case 200 to which filters 301 are welded. Three filters 301 are welded to case 200 so as to cover the above-mentioned three first openings in order to prevent dust from entering second openings 609, 709, and 809. Filters 301 and case 200 may be fixed to each other by adhesion or the like, instead of by welding. Furthermore, case 200 and filters 301 may be formed integrally.

[0090] Fig. 12 is a top view showing the case 200 with the absorber 300 inserted therein. The absorber 300 is inserted into the accommodation chamber 302 of the case 200, and is configured to be capable of holding liquid in the absorber 300. The liquid held in the absorber 300 is supplied to the recording element substrate 303 through a flow path portion. In Fig. 12, the recording element substrate 303 and the ejection port array 1101 are indicated by dashed lines.

[0091] The liquid held in the absorber 300A is supplied to the ejection port array 1101A of the recording element substrate 303 via a flow path 400A (see FIG. 4). The liquid held in the absorber 300B is supplied to the ejection port array 1101B of the recording element substrate 303 via a flow path 400B (see FIG. 4). The liquid held in the absorber 300C is supplied to the ejection port array 1101C of the recording element substrate 303 via a flow path 400C (see FIG. 4).

[0092] In the cartridge of this embodiment, the inside of the case 200 is divided into three sections to form three storage chambers 302 so that the absorbers 300A, 300B, and 300C are arranged along a center line C (Y direction) in the X direction. When the cartridge is mounted on a carriage and scanned, it moves in the +X direction or the -X direction. The recording element substrate 303 is provided with an ejection port array 1101 in which ejection ports are arranged along the Y direction. In other words, the absorbers 300A, 300B, and 300C are arranged along the same direction as the ejection port array direction, and are arranged along a direction intersecting (orthogonal in this embodiment) the scanning direction.

[0093] The case 200 is formed by molding resin. In forming the case 200, the flow path forming portion and the box portion are molded separately (primary molding), and then the flow path forming portion and the box portion are joined together by secondary molding. In the secondary molding, a method of creating a space between the box portion and the flow path forming portion by abutting them and pouring resin into the space may be adopted, or other connection methods such as adhesion may be adopted. In this way, the flow path forming portion and the box portion are molded separately, and then the flow path forming portion and the box portion are joined together to form a flow path in the case 200. In this embodiment, the storage chambers 302 are arranged at equal intervals, but they do not need to be at equal intervals.

[0094] The width (length in the X direction) of the cartridge is desirably 25 mm or less. In this embodiment, the three storage chambers 302 are linearly arranged along the Y direction, so it is possible to make the width of the cartridge 100 narrower than that of conventional cartridges. However, from the viewpoint of ink supply and ink injection properties, the width of the absorber 300 is desirably 5 mm or more. The width of the storage chambers 302 in the X direction is also desirably 5 mm or more.

[0095] The width of the cartridge 100 is preferably 10 mm to 25 mm, more preferably 13 mm to 23 mm, and even more preferably 15 mm to 21 mm. Regarding the ratio of the width in the X direction to the length in the Y direction of the case 200, the closer the cross section of the absorber 300 in the XY plane is to a square, the better the ink supply performance. Therefore, when three storage chambers are formed as in this embodiment, the ratio of the width in the X direction to the length in the Y direction is preferably about 2:5 to 2:7. The cartridge 100 of this embodiment has a width in the X direction of 20 mm and a depth length in the Y direction of 70 mm.

[0096] As for the absorbent 300, as described above, it is preferable that the cross section in the XY plane is close to a square, and one side is preferably 5 to 25 mm, more preferably 10 to 23 mm, and even more preferably 15 to 21 mm. Regarding the height in the Z direction of the absorbent 300, considering the liquid retention capacity, it is better to extend the length in the Z direction than in the X direction or Y direction in order to use up the liquid. However, extending in the Z direction increases the cartridge size, and the size of the device body also increases accordingly. Therefore, the height in the Z direction of the absorbent 300 is preferably 4 times or less than the width in the X direction or the length in the Y direction, more preferably 3 times or less, and even more preferably 2 times or less. The absorbent 300 of this embodiment has a width in the X direction of 17 mm, a depth in the Y direction of 21 mm, and a height in the Z direction of 33 mm.

[0097] 13 is a top view showing the flow path 400B and the flow path 400C, that is, a view showing a state in which the flow path portion 400 shown in FIG. 5(a) is removed from the flow path 400A. The second opening 709 of the flow path 400B and the second opening 809 of the flow path 400C are each disposed at a position shifted from the center in the X direction of the case 200. That is, the second opening 709 of the flow path 400B is disposed shifted in the -X direction from the center in the X direction of the case 200, and the second opening 809 of the flow path 400C is disposed shifted in the +X direction from the center in the X direction of the case 200. By disposing the second opening 709 in this manner, the length of the horizontal portion 708 extending in the Y direction to the discharge port row in the flow path 400B can be shortened, and the width in the X direction of the horizontal portion 808 of the flow path 400C can be increased. Moreover, by disposing second opening 809 offset from the center in the direction opposite to second opening 709, the length of horizontal portion 808 of flow channel 400C can be shortened.

[0098] The storage chambers 302 each accommodate an absorbent 300, and a filter 301 is provided between the absorbent 300 and the flow path 400 (see Figs. 11 and 12). The filter 301 is preferably large in size to reduce flow resistance. The size of the filter 301 is preferably at least half the cross-sectional area of ​​the absorbent 300 in the XY plane, and the shape of the filter 301 is more preferably close to a square. This can increase the contact between the absorbent 300 and the filter 301, and can improve the use of liquid. Specifically, the size of the filter 301 is preferably 30% to 90% or less of the cross-sectional area of ​​the absorbent 300 in the XY plane, more preferably 40% to 80%, and even more preferably 50% to 70%. In this embodiment, the size of the filter 301 is 12 mm wide in the X direction and 12 mm deep in the Y direction (40% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the absorbent in the XY plane).

[0099] A flow path 400A (see FIG. 4) is formed below filter 301A, a flow path 400B is formed below filter 301B, and a flow path 400C is formed below filter 301C (see FIGS. 10(a), 10(b), and 11). The following describes flow path 400B, but the same applies to flow paths 400A and 400C.

[0100] 7 again, the liquid that has passed through filter 301B passes through first opening 700 of flow path 400B and enters second opening 709. Second opening 709 is desirably provided near the center of filter 301 in the X direction so that stagnation is unlikely to occur in the space below filter 301B.

[0101] The space from the first opening 700 to the second opening 709 is the second storage section 702 that stores air bubbles. In the second storage section 702, the width of the second opening 709 in the X direction is narrowed, and is narrower than the width of the first opening 700 in the X direction, so that the air bubbles can easily move upward. However, if the width of the second opening 709 in the X direction is made too narrow, the flow resistance increases. Therefore, the width of the second opening 709 in the X direction is preferably 10% to 60% of the width of the filter 301B in the X direction, more preferably 10% to 40%, and even more preferably 10% to 20%. In this embodiment, the width of the second opening 709 in the X direction is 1.3 mm (10.8% of the width of the filter in the X direction).

[0102] A narrow width portion 1301B in which the flow path width is narrowed may be provided in a portion of the horizontal portion 708. A narrow width portion 1301C may be provided in a portion of the horizontal portion 808. Narrowing the flow path width creates resistance, and it is possible to reduce the oscillation pressure described below. If the width of the narrow width portion 1301 is too narrow, flow resistance increases when ink is supplied. For this reason, if the length of the flow path is about 50 mm, it is preferable that the width is 1 mm or more, more preferably 1.5 mm or more, and even more preferably 2 mm or more. If the flow path width is too wide in the narrow width portion 1301, the cartridge width will become wide, so it is preferable that the width is at most 3 mm or less.

[0103] In addition, since the influence of the oscillation pressure increases as the path from the absorber to the ejection port array becomes longer, the narrow width portion 1301C may be provided only in the flow path 400C that is far from the recording element substrate. This reduces the variation in the oscillation pressure in each of the flow paths 400A, 400B, and 400C shown in FIG. 4, stabilizes the ejection, and suppresses the deterioration of the recording quality.

[0104] Fig. 14(a) is a top view showing a flow path section 140 modeled by extracting a flow path space formed from a conventional absorbent body to a discharge port array. Fig. 14(b) is a side view showing the flow path section 140 shown in Fig. 14(a). Fig. 14(c) is a rear view showing the flow path section 140 shown in Fig. 14(a).

[0105] The liquid held by the conventional absorber is supplied to the ejection port array of the recording element substrate via the flow path section 140. The flow path section 140 includes three flow paths.

[0106] 14(c), flow path 140B connecting the absorber and the discharge port array is disposed on the far right side, flow path 140C connecting the absorber and the discharge port array is disposed on the far left side, and flow path 140A connecting the absorber and the discharge port array is disposed between them. That is, in this example, the storage chambers and absorber for supplying liquid to the flow paths 140A, 140B, and 140C are disposed directly above the flow paths 140A, 140B, and 140C (directly above in the Z direction), respectively.

[0107] Here, consider the case where a cartridge mounted on a conventional carriage scans in the +X direction. In this case, when the carriage accelerates, an inertial force acts on the liquid held in the absorbent in the direction opposite to the scanning direction (-X direction). Also, when the carriage decelerates, an inertial force acts on the liquid held in the absorbent in the direction opposite to the above (+X direction). Furthermore, when the carriage scans in the -X direction, an inertial force acts in the direction opposite to the above during acceleration and deceleration. That is, in the absorbent, a force in the +X direction and a force in the -X direction act alternately every time the carriage scans, and the liquid held in the absorbent oscillates in the ±X direction each time. As a result, the pressure of the liquid supplied to the flow paths 140B and 140C also fluctuates, and this pressure change affects the discharge state of the ejection port arrays 131B and 131C. Such a pressure change becomes larger as the deviation in the scanning direction (X direction) between the center of gravity of the absorbent and the ejection port array becomes larger.

[0108] Furthermore, when a force in the +X direction acts on the cartridge, the ejection port array 131B is in a pressurized state, and the ejection port array 131C is in a depressurized state. When a force in the -X direction acts on the cartridge, the ejection port array 131B is in a depressurized state, and the ejection port array 131C is in a pressurized state. In this way, since the pressurized and depressurized states differ depending on the ink color, there is a risk that the quality of the image expressed on the recording medium will be impaired. In this way, the pressure that the liquid in the flow path receives from the liquid held by the absorber will be referred to as the oscillation pressure below.

[0109] Fig. 15 is a top view showing the flow paths 400B, the flow paths 400C, the absorber 300B corresponding to the flow paths 400B, and the absorber 300C corresponding to the flow paths 400C in the cartridge 100 of this embodiment. In Fig. 15 as well, the extensions of the ejection port arrays 1101B and 1101C (not shown) are indicated by dotted lines.

[0110] The following describes an example in which a force in the +X direction acts on the cartridge 100 due to the movement of the carriage. The ejection port array 1101B that ejects liquid supplied from the flow path 400B is offset in the -X direction with respect to the center of gravity 160B of the absorber 300B that holds the liquid to be supplied to the flow path 400B. Liquid is supplied to the ejection port array 1101B from the absorber 300B via the flow path 400B. The center of gravity 160B and the ejection port array 1101B are offset in the X direction, but the amount of offset is smaller than in the conventional example described above, i.e., a configuration in which the center of gravity of the absorber is not arranged linearly along a direction perpendicular to the scanning direction.

[0111] Furthermore, the outlet array 1101C that ejects liquid supplied from the flow path 400C is offset in the +X direction with respect to the center of gravity 160C of the absorber 300C that holds the liquid to be supplied to the flow path 400C. Liquid is supplied to the outlet array 1101C from the absorber 300C via the flow path 400C. The center of gravity 160C and the outlet array 1101C are offset in the X direction, but the amount of offset is smaller than in the conventional example described above, i.e., a configuration in which the center of gravity of the absorber is not arranged linearly along a direction perpendicular to the scanning direction.

[0112] When the cartridge 100 is subjected to a force in the X direction, as shown in Fig. 15, a oscillating pressure 161B acts on the outlet array 1101B in a direction toward the center of gravity 160B of the absorber 300B. This puts the outlet array 1101B in a reduced pressure state. Also, a oscillating pressure 161C acts on the outlet array 1101C in a direction from the center of gravity 130C of the absorber 300C. This puts the outlet array 1101C in a pressurized state.

[0113] However, in this embodiment, the absorbers 300A, 300B, and 300C (see FIG. 3) are arranged linearly in the Y direction. By arranging the absorbers linearly in this manner, it is possible to reduce the amount of deviation in the X direction between the centers of gravity of the absorbers 300B and 300C and the ejection port arrays 1101B and 1101C (see FIG. 12) compared to the configuration of the prior art. This makes it possible to reduce the oscillation pressure applied to the ejection port arrays, suppressing ejection from becoming unstable and suppressing a decrease in recording quality.

[0114] In this way, in the cartridge, the center of gravity of the plurality of absorbers is linearly arranged in the direction of arrangement of the ejection ports in the ejection port row. This makes it possible to provide a cartridge and a recording device that can prevent the device from becoming large. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the ejection from becoming unstable and to prevent a deterioration in recording quality.

[0115] 16(a) to 16(d) are conceptual diagrams of the inside of a mold used when manufacturing a cartridge in this embodiment. An in-mold molding technique is used as a means for pouring resin 920 (see FIG. 10(b)). The in-mold molding technique will be described in order.

[0116] In this embodiment, a first mold 1601 having a mold for forming the flow path forming portion 306 and a second mold 1602 having a mold for forming the box portion 307 are used. The first mold 1601 is a fixed mold, and the second mold 1602 is a movable mold.

[0117] 16(a), a first mold 1601 on the fixed side and a second mold 1602 on the movable side are joined together, and a molding resin is filled into the mold formed by these molds through a primary gate arranged in the first mold 1601. Then, a first member constituting the flow path forming portion 306 and a second member constituting the box portion 307 are molded.

[0118] 16(b), the molds are opened. Then, the first member constituting the flow path forming portion 306 is left in the first mold 1601, and the second member constituting the box portion 307 is left in the second mold 1602.

[0119] Next, as shown in FIG. 16(c), the second mold 1602 is moved so that the second member constituting the box portion 307 is positioned above the first member constituting the flow path forming portion 306 remaining on the first mold 1601.

[0120] 16(d), the second mold 1602 is lowered so that the position of the flow path forming portion 306 and the position of the box portion 307 are aligned, and the first mold 1601 is closed by the second mold 1602. By closing the first mold 1601 by the second mold 1602, the first member constituting the flow path forming portion 306 left in the first mold 1601 and the box portion 307 left in the second mold 1602 are arranged in a combined form within the mold.

[0121] Next, molten resin 920 (see FIG. 10(b)) is poured from a secondary gate arranged in the first member constituting flow path forming portion 306 to bond flow path forming portion 306 and box portion 307. Finally, the mold is opened again, and the member in which flow path forming portion 306 and box portion 307 are bonded is removed from the mold.

[0122] According to such in-mold molding technology, the molding of flow path forming portion 306 and box portion 307 and the joining of them are performed inside a mold, so that the first member constituting flow path forming portion 306 and the second member constituting box portion 307 can be joined inexpensively and with high precision.

[0123] As described above, according to the cartridge of this embodiment, when observed along the depth direction of the cartridge, the first storage portion located in the center among the three first storage portions is arranged so as to overlap with each of the two first storage portions located on the left and right thereof. In detail, in each of the three flow paths, a first storage portion that is wider than other regions and has a function of storing air bubbles is provided at a position upstream of the connecting flow path. In addition, when the cartridge is viewed from the arrangement direction (Y direction) of the ejection ports, the first storage portion located in the center among the three first storage portions is arranged so as to partially overlap with the other two first storage portions. By forming the three flow paths so as to satisfy such conditions, the width of the entire flow path portion can be made smaller than that of the conventional technology.

[0124] Therefore, according to the cartridge of this embodiment, even when a plurality of flow paths are arranged, it is possible to suppress the generation of air bubbles, and the cartridge can be made thinner than the conventional technology.

[0125] Furthermore, according to the cartridge of this embodiment, when air bubbles occur in the liquid in the flow path, the air bubbles are stored in the first storage section, the second storage section, or both. Then, prior to a recording operation, a certain amount of air bubbles stored in the first storage section, the second storage section, or both are discharged. Therefore, according to the cartridge of this embodiment, air bubbles can be removed without frequent recovery operations.

[0126] In this embodiment, a cartridge type (detachable type) liquid ejection head having a liquid storage chamber has been described. However, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can also be applied to a permanent type liquid ejection head that does not have a liquid storage chamber. In the case of a permanent type liquid ejection head, the liquid supplied to the liquid ejection head may be supplied from a tank in the recording device body, or may be supplied from a liquid cartridge mounted on the liquid ejection head.

[0127] [Second embodiment] A second embodiment of the technology of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. The difference between the cartridge in the first embodiment and the cartridge in this embodiment is the arrangement of the storage chambers. In the first embodiment, the three storage chambers are arranged in a straight line. In contrast, in this embodiment, the three storage chambers are arranged in a T-shape. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for configurations similar to or corresponding to the first embodiment, and descriptions are omitted, and differences are mainly described.

[0128] Fig. 17(a) is a schematic perspective view of the top surface of a cartridge 1700 in this embodiment. Fig. 17(b) is a schematic perspective view of the side surface of a cartridge 1700 in this embodiment. Fig. 17(c) is a schematic perspective view of the front surface of a cartridge 1700 in this embodiment.

[0129] As shown in FIG. 17(a), in this embodiment, the inside of the cartridge 1700 is divided into a T-shape such that three storage chambers are adjacent to each other. A first storage chamber 1701A, a second storage chamber 1701B, and a third storage chamber 1701C are provided in each of the divided sections. The first storage chamber 1701A, the second storage chamber 1701B, and the third storage chamber 1701C each store an absorbent that holds a different type of liquid. The second storage chamber 1701B and the third storage chamber 1701C are arranged side by side in the width direction (X direction) of the cartridge 1700. The first storage chamber 1701A is arranged on the rear side of the second storage chamber 1701B and the third storage chamber 1701C (upper side in the example of FIG. 17(a)).

[0130] As shown in FIG. 17(b) and FIG. 17(c), the first containing chamber 1701A is connected to the first opening 1702A. A first flow path is formed that continues from the first opening 1702A to the recording element substrate. The second containing chamber 1701B is connected to the first opening 1702B. A second flow path is formed that continues from the first opening 1702B to the recording element substrate. The third containing chamber 1701C is connected to the first opening 1702C. A second flow path is formed that continues from the first opening 1702C to the recording element substrate.

[0131] 18 is a perspective view showing a model of a space that serves as a liquid flow path within the case in this embodiment, extracted and shown as a flow path section 1800. The flow path section 1800 is a model of an ink flow path extracted.

[0132] As shown in FIG. 18, the flow path section 1800 includes a first flow path 1800A having a first opening 1702A, a second flow path 1800B having a first opening 1702B, and a third flow path 1800C having a first opening 1702C.

[0133] The first flow path 1800A is formed so as to be capable of independently supplying a first type of liquid from a first storage chamber to the recording element substrate, the second flow path 1800B is formed so as to be capable of independently supplying a second type of liquid from a second storage chamber to the recording element substrate, and the third flow path 1800C is formed so as to be capable of independently supplying a third type of liquid from a third storage chamber to the recording element substrate.

[0134] 19(a) is a top view of the flow path section 1800, FIG. 19(b) is a side view of the flow path section 1800, and FIG. 19(c) is a front view of the flow path section 1800. As shown in FIG.

[0135] 19(a) to 19(c), first flow path 1800A is wider than the other regions and includes first storage section 1901A capable of storing air bubbles generated by discharging, etc. Second flow path 1800B is wider than the other regions and includes first storage section 1901B capable of storing air bubbles generated by discharging, etc. Third flow path 1800C is wider than the other regions and includes first storage section 1901C capable of storing air bubbles generated by discharging, etc.

[0136] 19(c), first storage section 1901A, first storage section 1901B, and first storage section 1901C are observed along the depth direction of the cartridge. In this case, first storage section 1901B and first storage section 1901C have overlapping section 1900 that overlaps with a part of first storage section 1901A.

[0137] In this way, even with the cartridge of this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the generation of air bubbles even when a plurality of flow paths are arranged, and it is possible to make the cartridge thinner than the conventional technology.

[0138] [Other embodiments] In the example of FIG. 9(b), the left and right side surfaces of the first storage section 601 are inclined with respect to the vertical direction (Z direction). However, either one of the left and right side surfaces of the first storage section 601 may extend along the vertical direction. Also, the left and right side surfaces of the first storage section 701 are inclined with respect to the vertical direction (Z direction). However, either one of the left and right side surfaces of the first storage section 701 may extend along the vertical direction. Also, the left and right side surfaces of the first storage section 801 are inclined with respect to the vertical direction (Z direction). However, either one of the left and right side surfaces of the first storage section 801 may extend along the vertical direction. With such a configuration, the width (size in the X direction) of the cartridge body can be made thinner.

[0139] In the first embodiment, the first storage section 601 is used as the first region in the first upstream flow path where the cross-sectional area of ​​the first upstream flow path decreases from the top to the bottom in the vertical direction. However, the second storage section 602 may be used as the first region. Even in the configuration where the cross-sectional area of ​​the first upstream flow path is reduced by the first tapered section 605 and the second tapered section 606 of the second storage section 602, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0140] In the first embodiment, the first storage section 701 is used as the second region in the second upstream flow path where the cross-sectional area of ​​the second upstream flow path decreases from the top to the bottom in the vertical direction. However, the second storage section 702 may be used as the second region. Even in the configuration where the cross-sectional area of ​​the second upstream flow path is reduced by the first tapered section 705 and the second tapered section 706 of the second storage section 702, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0141] Also, a second storage section 802 may be used as the second region. A cross-sectional area of ​​the third upstream flow path (a portion of flow path 400C other than connecting flow path 707) may be reduced by a first tapered portion 805 and a second tapered portion 806 of second storage section 802. Even with such a configuration, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0142] The present disclosure includes the following configurations.

[0143] [Configuration 1] a first ejection port row and a second ejection port row, the first ejection port row and the second ejection port row being arranged in parallel to each other and including a plurality of ejection ports for ejecting liquid arranged in a first direction; a first filter that filters liquid supplied to the first ejection port array; a second filter that filters the liquid supplied to the second discharge port array; a first flow path that supplies liquid from the first filter to the first ejection port array; a second flow path that supplies liquid from the second filter to the second ejection port array; A liquid ejection head comprising: the first flow path includes a first downstream flow path that is in communication with the first discharge port array, and a first upstream flow path that is in communication with the first filter and the first downstream flow path, the second flow path includes a second downstream flow path that is in communication with the second discharge port array, and a second upstream flow path that is in communication with the second filter and the second downstream flow path, When the liquid ejection head is in use, the first upstream flow path is located vertically above the first downstream flow path and has a first region in which a cross-sectional area of ​​the first upstream flow path decreases from the top to the bottom in the vertical direction, the second upstream flow path is located vertically above the second downstream flow path and has a second region in which a cross-sectional area of ​​the second upstream flow path decreases from the top to the bottom in the vertical direction, A liquid ejection head characterized in that, when viewed from the first direction, the first downstream flow path and the second downstream flow path do not overlap, and the first region and the second region are arranged to overlap.

[0144] [Configuration 2] a first storage chamber communicating with the first upstream flow path and configured to store a liquid; a second storage chamber communicating with the second upstream flow path and configured to store a liquid; Equipped with The first filter is disposed in the first chamber, The second filter is disposed in the second chamber. A liquid ejection head according to configuration 1.

[0145] [Configuration 3] When the liquid ejection head is in use, When viewed from a vertical direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first storage chamber and the second storage chamber do not overlap with each other. 3. The liquid ejection head according to configuration 2.

[0146] [Configuration 4] The first downstream flow path is a first opening communicating with the first discharge port array; a second opening communicating with the first upstream flow path; Equipped with The length of the first opening in the first direction is longer than the length of the second opening in the second direction. A liquid ejection head according to configuration 3.

[0147] [Configuration 5] The first downstream flow path extends along the first direction and has a first tapered portion inclined with respect to the first opening. A liquid ejection head according to configuration 4.

[0148] [Configuration 6] The first tapered portion is a first inclined portion formed from one end in the first direction toward the first upstream flow path; a second inclined portion formed continuously from the other end of the first inclined portion in the first direction, The first inclined portion and the second inclined portion are inclined at different angles with respect to the first opening. A liquid ejection head according to configuration 5.

[0149] [Configuration 7] the second downstream flow passage includes a second tapered portion extending along the first direction and inclined relative to the first opening, When viewed along the first direction, the first tapered portions and the second tapered portions arranged along the second direction are arranged so as to face in opposite directions alternately along the first direction. The liquid ejection head according to configuration 5 or 6.

[0150] [Configuration 8] the first downstream flow path has a wall surface that extends in a vertical direction when the liquid ejection head is in an in-use state; The liquid ejection head according to any one of configurations 1 to 7.

[0151] [Configuration 9] The first storage chamber and the second storage chamber store different types of liquids. The liquid ejection head according to any one of configurations 2 to 8.

[0152] [Configuration 10] the first upstream flow path includes a first portion communicating with the first filter and a second portion communicating with the first portion and the first downstream flow path; When the liquid ejection head is in a used state, each of the first portion and the second portion includes a region in which a cross-sectional area of ​​the first portion and the second portion decreases from above to below in a vertical direction, The second portion includes the first region. 10. The liquid ejection head according to any one of configurations 1 to 9.

[0153] [Configuration 11] an opening communicating with the first portion is formed on an uppermost surface of the second portion when the liquid ejection head is in an in-use state; A liquid ejection head according to configuration 10.

[0154] [Configuration 12] an opening communicating with the first downstream flow path is formed on a lowermost surface of the second portion when the liquid ejection head is in an in-use state; 12. The liquid ejection head according to configuration 10 or 11.

[0155] [Configuration 13] the second upstream flow path includes a third portion communicating with the second filter and a fourth portion communicating with the third portion and the second downstream flow path, When the liquid ejection head is in a used state, each of the third portion and the fourth portion includes a region in which a cross-sectional area of ​​the third portion and the fourth portion decreases from above to below in a vertical direction, The fourth portion includes the second region. 13. The liquid ejection head according to any one of configurations 10 to 12.

[0156] [Configuration 14] A liquid ejection head according to any one of configurations 1 to 13, capable of ejecting liquid onto a recording medium to record an image; a mounting means capable of mounting the liquid ejection head; 1. A device comprising:

Claims

1. a first ejection port array and a second ejection port array, the first ejection port array and the second ejection port array being arranged in parallel to each other and including a plurality of ejection ports for ejecting liquid arranged in a first direction; a first filter that filters liquid supplied to the first ejection port array; a second filter that filters the liquid supplied to the second ejection port array; a first flow path that supplies liquid from the first filter to the first ejection port array; a second flow path that supplies liquid from the second filter to the second ejection port array; A liquid ejection head comprising: the first flow path includes a first downstream flow path that is in communication with the first ejection port array, and a first upstream flow path that is in communication with the first filter and the first downstream flow path, the second flow path includes a second downstream flow path that is in communication with the second ejection port array, and a second upstream flow path that is in communication with the second filter and the second downstream flow path, When the liquid ejection head is in use, the first upstream flow path is located vertically above the first downstream flow path and has a first region in which a cross-sectional area of ​​the first upstream flow path decreases from the top to the bottom in the vertical direction, the second upstream flow path is located vertically above the second downstream flow path and has a second region in which a cross-sectional area of ​​the second upstream flow path decreases from the top to the bottom in the vertical direction, A liquid ejection head characterized in that, when viewed from the first direction, the first downstream flow path and the second downstream flow path do not overlap, and the first region and the second region are arranged to overlap.

2. a first storage chamber communicating with the first upstream flow path and configured to store a liquid; a second storage chamber communicating with the second upstream flow path and configured to store a liquid; Equipped with The first filter is disposed in the first chamber, The second filter is disposed in the second chamber. The liquid ejection head according to claim 1 .

3. When the liquid ejection head is in use, When viewed from a vertical direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first storage chamber and the second storage chamber do not overlap with each other. The liquid ejection head according to claim 2 .

4. The first downstream flow path is a first opening communicating with the first ejection port array; a second opening communicating with the first upstream flow passage; Equipped with The length of the first opening in the first direction is longer than the length of the second opening in the second direction. The liquid ejection head according to claim 3 .

5. The first downstream flow passage extends along the first direction and has a first tapered portion inclined with respect to the first opening.

5. The liquid ejection head according to claim 4.

6. The first tapered portion is a first inclined portion formed from one end in the first direction toward the first upstream flow path; a second inclined portion formed continuously from the other end of the first inclined portion in the first direction, The first inclined portion and the second inclined portion are inclined at different angles with respect to the first opening. The liquid ejection head according to claim 5 .

7. the second downstream flow passage includes a second tapered portion extending along the first direction and inclined relative to the first opening, When viewed along the first direction, the first tapered portions and the second tapered portions arranged along the second direction are arranged so as to face in opposite directions alternately along the first direction. The liquid ejection head according to claim 5 .

8. the first downstream flow path has a wall surface that extends in a vertical direction when the liquid ejection head is in an in-use state; The liquid ejection head according to claim 1 .

9. The first storage chamber and the second storage chamber store different types of liquids. The liquid ejection head according to claim 2 .

10. the first upstream flow path includes a first portion communicating with the first filter and a second portion communicating with the first portion and the first downstream flow path; When the liquid ejection head is in a used state, each of the first portion and the second portion includes a region in which a cross-sectional area of ​​the first portion and the second portion decreases from above to below in a vertical direction, The second portion includes the first region. The liquid ejection head according to claim 1 .

11. an opening communicating with the first portion is formed on an uppermost surface of the second portion when the liquid ejection head is in an in-use state; The liquid ejection head according to claim 10.

12. an opening communicating with the first downstream flow path is formed on a lowermost surface of the second portion when the liquid ejection head is in an in-use state; The liquid ejection head according to claim 10.

13. the second upstream flow path includes a third portion communicating with the second filter and a fourth portion communicating with the third portion and the second downstream flow path, When the liquid ejection head is in a used state, each of the third portion and the fourth portion includes a region in which a cross-sectional area of ​​the third portion and the fourth portion decreases from above to below in a vertical direction, The liquid ejection head according to claim 10 , wherein the fourth portion includes the second region.

14. The liquid ejection head according to claim 1, which is capable of ejecting liquid onto a recording medium to record an image; a mounting means capable of mounting the liquid ejection head; 1. A device comprising:

Images