Valve mechanism, liquid ejection device, and method of controlling liquid ejection device

Abstract

To provide a valve mechanism that can suppress the occurrence of leakage, and to provide a liquid ejection device and a method of controlling a liquid ejection device.SOLUTION: A valve mechanism 29 provided in the middle of a flow path 26 through which a fluid flows includes a first base 39 forming a part of the flow path 26, a valve section 47 configured to close the flow path 26, a pressure receiving section 48 having flexibility, a first lid member 41 forming a first space 50 between the first lid member and the pressure receiving section 48, and a lever section 42 provided in the first space 50, where the lever section 42 presses the valve section 47 in a direction of closing the flow path 26 based on displacement of the pressure receiving section 48 due to pressure reduction in the first space 50.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a valve mechanism, a liquid ejection device, and a method for controlling a liquid ejection device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, there is a recording device, which is an example of a liquid ejection device, that prints by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, from a liquid ejection head, which is an example of a liquid ejection section, as described in Patent Document 1. The recording device includes a flow path that supplies ink, and a flow path opening and closing means, which is an example of a valve mechanism.

[0003] The flow path opening and closing means includes a third recess, a fourth recess, and a second flexible member. The second flexible member is provided between the third recess and the fourth recess. The third recess and the second flexible member form an ink chamber that stores ink. The fourth recess and the second flexible member form an air chamber. The flow path opening and closing means closes the flow path by displacing the second flexible member due to air supplied to the air chamber. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-189201 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The flow path opening and closing means of Patent Document 1 closes the flow path by pressurizing the air chamber. When the air chamber is pressurized, there is a risk that the adhesion between the third recess constituting the air chamber and the second flexible member will be insufficient, resulting in leakage. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The valve mechanism that solves the above problem is a valve mechanism that is provided midway through a flow path through which a fluid flows, and includes a base that forms part of the flow path, a valve portion that can close the flow path, a flexible pressure-receiving portion, a first lid member that forms a first space between the pressure-receiving portion and the pressure-receiving portion, and a lever portion that is provided within the first space, and the lever portion pushes the valve portion in a direction that closes the flow path based on displacement of the pressure-receiving portion due to reduced pressure in the first space.

[0007] A liquid ejection device that solves the above problem includes a valve mechanism configured as described above, a liquid ejection section that ejects liquid, the flow path that supplies the liquid to the liquid ejection section, and a reduced pressure source, wherein the first cover member has a first communication hole for communicating the reduced pressure source with the first space, and the reduced pressure source is capable of reducing the pressure within the first space via the first communication hole.

[0008] The valve mechanism that solves the above problem is a valve mechanism that is provided midway through a plurality of flow paths through which a plurality of types of fluids respectively flow, and includes a base that constitutes a portion of each of the plurality of flow paths, a plurality of valve portions capable of closing each of the plurality of flow paths, a flexible pressure-receiving portion, a first lid member that forms a first space between the pressure-receiving portion, and a lever portion provided within the first space, and the lever portion pushes the plurality of valve portions in a direction that closes the plurality of flow paths based on displacement of the pressure-receiving portion due to reduced pressure in the first space.

[0009] A liquid ejection device that solves the above problem comprises a valve mechanism configured as described above, a liquid ejection section that ejects multiple types of liquid, a plurality of flow paths that supply the multiple types of liquid to the liquid ejection section, and a reduced pressure source, wherein the first cover member has a first communication hole for communicating the reduced pressure source with the first space, and the reduced pressure source is capable of reducing the pressure within the first space via the first communication hole.

[0010] A method of controlling a liquid ejection device that solves the above problem includes a liquid ejection unit that ejects liquid, a flow path that supplies the liquid to the liquid ejection unit, a reduced pressure source, a base that constitutes a part of the flow path, a valve unit that can close the flow path, a flexible pressure receiving unit, a first cover member that forms a first space between the pressure receiving unit and the lever unit, a liquid chamber that is provided in the flow path between the valve unit and the liquid ejection unit and at least a part of which is made of a flexible member that has flexibility, a biasing member that biases the flexible member in a direction that reduces the volume of the liquid chamber, a second cover member that forms a second space between the flexible member and the second cover member, and a lever unit that biases the second space. a pressure reducing source for reducing the pressure inside the second space, thereby displacing the flexible member in a direction in which the volume of the liquid chamber increases, thereby drawing the liquid into the liquid chamber; a pressure reducing source for reducing the pressure inside the first space, thereby displacing the pressure receiving portion; a pressure reducing source for reducing the pressure inside the first space, thereby displacing the pressure receiving portion; a pressure reducing member for causing the lever portion to press the valve portion based on the displacement of the pressure receiving portion, thereby closing a portion of the flow path; and a pressure reducing member for causing the flexible member to press the pressure reducing member to push the liquid in the liquid chamber toward the liquid ejection portion, thereby communicating the second space with the atmosphere via the pressure reducing source.

[0011] A control method for a liquid ejection device that solves the above problem includes a liquid ejection section that ejects multiple types of liquid, multiple flow paths that supply the multiple types of liquid to the liquid ejection section, a reduced pressure source, a base body in which each of the multiple flow paths is partially configured, multiple valve sections that can close the multiple flow paths, a flexible pressure receiving section, a first cover member that forms a first space between the pressure receiving section and the first cover member, a lever section provided in the first space, multiple liquid chambers that are provided between the valve section and the liquid ejection section in the multiple flow paths and at least a portion of which is configured by a flexible member that has flexibility, multiple biasing members that bias the flexible member in a direction that reduces the volume of the multiple liquid chambers, and a second biasing member that forms a multiple second spaces between the flexible member and the multiple liquid chambers at positions corresponding to the multiple liquid chambers. A control method for a liquid ejection device having a cover member and an atmosphere communication portion capable of communicating the insides of the second spaces with the atmosphere, the control method including: reducing the pressure inside the second spaces with the reduced pressure source, thereby displacing the flexible member in a direction in which the volume of the multiple liquid chambers increases, thereby drawing the liquid into the multiple liquid chambers; reducing the pressure inside the first space with the reduced pressure source, thereby displacing the pressure receiving portion; based on the displacement of the pressure receiving portion, causing the lever portion to press the multiple valve portions to close each of the multiple flow paths; and communicating the insides of the second spaces with the atmosphere with the atmosphere communication portion, thereby pushing the flexible member with the biasing forces of the multiple biasing members, thereby pushing the liquid in the multiple liquid chambers toward the liquid ejection portion. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a liquid ejection device. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the liquid ejection device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the first base and the first flexible member. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view of the first base, the first flexible member, and the lever portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] [First embodiment] A first embodiment of a valve mechanism, a liquid ejection device, and a control method for a liquid ejection device will be described below with reference to the drawings. The liquid ejection device is an inkjet printer that ejects ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper, fabric, vinyl, plastic parts, or metal parts to print.

[0014] <Liquid discharge device> 1, the liquid ejection device 11 may include a pressure reducing unit 12, a mounting unit 13, and a supply mechanism 14. The liquid ejection device 11 may also include a liquid ejection unit 15 and an atmosphere communication unit 16.

[0015] The pressure reduction unit 12 may include a pressure reduction source 18, a first pressure reduction path 19, a second pressure reduction path 20, and a third pressure reduction path 21. The first pressure reduction path 19, the second pressure reduction path 20, and the third pressure reduction path 21 each connect the pressure reduction source 18 and the supply mechanism 14.

[0016] The liquid ejection unit 15 is capable of ejecting liquid. The liquid ejection unit 15 ejects liquid from a plurality of nozzles 23 to print on a medium (not shown). A liquid storage section 24 that stores liquid can be attached to the mounting section 13. The liquid storage section 24 may be a cartridge or a pack, or may be a tank that can be replenished with liquid.

[0017] <Supply mechanism> The supply mechanism 14 may include a flow path 26, a supply pump 27, an adjustment unit 28, a valve mechanism 29, and a pressurizing unit 30. The supply mechanism 14 supplies the liquid contained in the liquid container 24 to the liquid ejection unit 15.

[0018] Liquid flows through the flow path 26. The liquid in this embodiment is an example of a fluid. The flow path 26 supplies liquid to the liquid ejection section 15. The liquid flows through the flow path 26 in a supply direction Ds. The upstream end of the flow path 26 is connected to the liquid storage section 24 attached to the attachment section 13. The downstream end of the flow path 26 is connected to the liquid ejection section 15. The supply pump 27, the adjustment section 28, the valve mechanism 29, and the pressurization section 30 are provided midway through the flow path 26.

[0019] <Supply pump> The supply pump 27 supplies liquid toward the liquid discharge portion 15. The supply pump 27 may include a first one-way valve 32, a second one-way valve 33, a displacement portion 34, a pump chamber 35, a pressure chamber 36, and a spring 37.

[0020] The first one-way valve 32 is provided upstream of the pump chamber 35 in the supply direction Ds. The second one-way valve 33 is provided downstream of the pump chamber 35 in the supply direction Ds. The first one-way valve 32 and the second one-way valve 33 allow the flow of liquid downstream in the supply direction Ds. The first one-way valve 32 and the second one-way valve 33 restrict the flow of liquid upstream in the supply direction Ds.

[0021] The displacement portion 34 separates the pump chamber 35 and the pressure chamber 36. The displacement portion 34 may be flexible. The displacement portion 34 changes the volume of the pump chamber 35 by deforming in response to the pressure difference between the pump chamber 35 and the pressure chamber 36.

[0022] The spring 37 is provided in the pressure chamber 36. The spring 37 pushes the displacement portion 34 in a direction in which the volume of the pump chamber 35 is reduced. The first pressure reduction path 19 connects the pressure reduction source 18 and the pressure chamber 36. The pressure reduction source 18 is capable of reducing the pressure in the pressure chamber 36. The pressure reduction source 18 reduces the pressure in the pressure chamber 36, thereby increasing the volume of the pump chamber 35. When the volume of the pump chamber 35 increases, the supply pump 27 draws liquid from the liquid storage section 24. When the pressure reduction source 18 releases the reduced pressure in the pressure chamber 36, the spring 37 pushes the displacement section 34. The spring 37 pushes out the liquid in the pump chamber 35 by reducing the volume of the pump chamber 35.

[0023] The reduced pressure source 18 drives the supply pump 27 by alternately reducing and releasing the reduced pressure in the pressure chamber 36. The reduced pressure source 18 may drive the supply pump 27 while the liquid ejection device 11 is operating.

[0024] <Adjustment part> The adjustment unit 28 adjusts the pressure of the liquid supplied to the liquid discharge unit 15. The adjustment unit 28 sets the pressure of the liquid downstream of the adjustment unit 28 to a predetermined negative pressure. The adjustment unit 28 restricts the passage of the liquid when the differential pressure between the downstream pressure and the atmospheric pressure is small. The adjustment unit 28 allows the passage of the liquid when the differential pressure between the downstream pressure and the atmospheric pressure becomes large.

[0025] <Valve mechanism> The valve mechanism 29 may include a first base 39 which is an example of a base, a first flexible member 40, a first lid member 41, a lever portion 42, and a pressing member 43.

[0026] A part of the flow path 26 is formed in the first base 39. The first base 39 may have a valve seat 45. The first flexible member 40 may have a valve portion 47 and a pressure-receiving portion 48. The valve portion 47 in this embodiment is integral with the pressure-receiving portion 48. The valve portion 47 may be flexible. The valve portion 47 in this embodiment has elasticity. The pressure-receiving portion 48 has flexibility. The valve portion 47 and the pressure-receiving portion 48 are aligned in the longitudinal direction D1 of the lever portion 42.

[0027] The first base 39 and the first cover member 41 sandwich the first flexible member 40 and the pressing member 43. The pressing member 43 is located between the lever portion 42 and the first flexible member 40. The pressing member 43 presses the first flexible member 40.

[0028] The first cover member 41 forms a first space 50 between itself and the first flexible member 40. In other words, the first cover member 41 forms the first space 50 between itself and the valve portion 47. The first cover member 41 forms the first space 50 between itself and the pressure-receiving portion 48.

[0029] The first cover member 41 may have a support pillar 51. The support pillar 51 is located within the first space 50. The support pillar 51 is located on the opposite side of the lever portion 42 from the first flexible member 40. The support pillar 51 is located between the pressure-receiving portion 48 and the valve portion 47 in the longitudinal direction D1.

[0030] The first cover member 41 has a first communication hole 52. The first communication hole 52 communicates between the reduced pressure source 18 and the first space 50. Communication means connecting in a state where fluids such as liquids and gases can flow. The first communication hole 52 in this embodiment is connected to the second reduced pressure path 20. The first communication hole 52 communicates with the reduced pressure source 18 via the second reduced pressure path 20. The reduced pressure source 18 can reduce the pressure inside the first space 50 via the first communication hole 52.

[0031] The pressure-receiving portion 48 may form a space between itself and the first base 39. The space between the pressure-receiving portion 48 and the first base 39 may be in communication with the atmosphere. The pressure receiving portion 48 is more easily deformed than the valve portion 47. For example, the thickness of the pressure receiving portion 48 is thinner than the thickness of the valve portion 47. The pressure receiving portion 48 and the valve portion 47 may be circular in a plan view. The diameter of the pressure receiving portion 48 is larger than the diameter of the valve portion 47. The area of ​​the pressure receiving portion 48 on which the pressure of the first space 50 acts is larger than the area of ​​the valve portion 47 on which the pressure of the first space 50 acts.

[0032] The valve portion 47 is capable of closing the flow path 26. The valve portion 47 forms a part of the flow path 26 between itself and the first base 39. The valve portion 47 faces the valve seat 45. The valve portion 47 opens the flow path 26 when positioned in an open position shown in FIG. 1 away from the valve seat 45. The valve portion 47 closes the flow path 26 when positioned in a closed position (not shown) in contact with the valve seat 45.

[0033] The lever portion 42 is provided in the first space 50. The lever portion 42 has a fulcrum portion 53, a first passive portion 54, and a second passive portion 55. The fulcrum portion 53 is located between the first passive portion 54 and the second passive portion 55 in the longitudinal direction D1. The fulcrum portion 53 is located between the pressure receiving portion 48 and the valve portion 47 in the longitudinal direction D1. The fulcrum portion 53 in this embodiment is a hole with a bottom. The bottom of the fulcrum portion 53 contacts the tip of the support 51. The lever portion 42 can swing with the tip of the support 51 as the fulcrum so that the inclination with respect to the longitudinal direction D1 changes.

[0034] The first passive part 54 is located on the side opposite to the second passive part 55 in the longitudinal direction D1. The first passive part 54 can be in contact with the pressure-receiving part 48. The second passive part 55 can be in contact with the valve part 47. The first passive part 54 and the second passive part 55 are each movable in the upward pushing direction Du and the downward pushing direction Dd. The upward pushing direction Du is the direction opposite to the downward pushing direction Dd. The second passive part 55 is displaced in the direction opposite to the first passive part 54.

[0035] <Pressurizing part> The pressurizing part 30 may include a second base body 57, a second flexible member 58 which is an example of a flexible member, a second lid member 59, and a biasing member 60. The second flexible member 58 has flexibility.

[0036] The second base body 57 and the second lid member 59 sandwich the second flexible member 58. The second lid member 59 forms a second space 62 between it and the second flexible member 58. The second flexible member 58 forms a liquid chamber 63 between it and the second base body 57. That is, the pressurizing part 30 includes the liquid chamber 63.

[0037] The biasing member 60 is, for example, a spring. The biasing member 60 is provided in the second space 62. The biasing member 60 biases the second flexible member 58 in the direction in which the volume of the liquid chamber 63 becomes smaller. Biasing means that when a force is applied to an object, this object is pushed back.

[0038] The liquid chamber 63 is at least partially constituted by the second flexible member 58. The liquid chamber 63 forms a part of the flow path 26. The liquid chamber 63 is provided between the valve mechanism 29 and the liquid discharge part 15 in the flow path 26.

[0039] A second communication hole 65 is provided in the second lid member 59. The second communication hole 65 communicates the decompression source 18 and the second space 62. A third decompression path 21 is connected to the second communication hole 65 of the present embodiment. The second communication hole 65 communicates with the decompression source 18 via the third decompression path 21. The decompression source 18 can decompress the inside of the second space 62 via the second communication hole 65.

[0040] The atmosphere communication part 16 may be connected to the third decompression path 21. The atmosphere communication part 16 may communicate the second space 62 with the atmosphere via the third decompression path 21. The atmosphere communication part 16 can communicate the inside of the second space 62 with the atmosphere.

[0041] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a control unit 67. The control unit 67 comprehensively controls the driving of each mechanism in the liquid ejection device 11. The control unit 67 controls various operations executed by the liquid ejection device 11.

[0042] The control unit 67 may be configured as a circuit including: α: one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program; β: one or more dedicated hardware circuits that execute at least a part of the various processes; or γ: a combination thereof. The hardware circuit is, for example, an application specific integrated circuit. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM, and the memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. The memory, i.e., computer-readable medium, includes any readable medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0043] <Method of controlling liquid ejection device> The control unit 67 performs pressurized cleaning by controlling the driving of the reduced pressure source 18 and the atmosphere communication unit 16. The pressurized cleaning is a maintenance method in which pressurized liquid is supplied to the liquid ejection unit 15, causing the liquid to overflow from the nozzles 23.

[0044] When performing pressurized cleaning, first, the control unit 67 causes the pressure in the second space 62 to be reduced by the reduced pressure source 18. When the pressure in the second space 62 is reduced, the second flexible member 58 is displaced in a direction in which the volume of the liquid chamber 63 increases. At this time, the valve unit 47 is in the open position. Therefore, the pressurizing unit 30 draws liquid into the liquid chamber 63.

[0045] Subsequently, the control unit 67 depressurizes the first space 50 by means of the pressure reducing source 18. By depressurizing the first space 50, the control unit 67 displaces the pressure receiving part 48. The pressure receiving part 48 displaces so as to reduce the volume of the first space 50.

[0046] The displaced pressure receiving part 48 moves the first passive part 54 in the upward pushing direction Du. At this time, the second passive part 55 moves in the downward pushing direction Dd. The second passive part 55 pushes the valve part 47. The valve part 47 moves to the closed position. That is, based on the displacement of the pressure receiving part 48, the valve mechanism 29 causes the valve part 47 to push the lever part 42 to close a part of the flow path 26.

[0047] The control unit 67 communicates the second space 62 with the atmosphere by means of the atmosphere communication part 16. By communicating the second space 62 with the atmosphere, the control unit 67 pushes the second flexible member 58 with the biasing force of the biasing member 60. At this time, the valve part 47 closes the flow path 26. Therefore, the biasing member 60 extrudes the liquid in the liquid chamber 63 toward the liquid discharge part 15. As a result, the liquid overflows from the nozzle 23. That is, the liquid with increased viscosity, foreign matter, etc. are discharged from the nozzle 23. The control unit 67 may execute wiping to cause a wiper (not shown) to wipe the liquid discharge part 15.

[0048] The control unit 67 releases the depressurization in the first space 50. When the depressurization of the first space 50 is released, the force with which the pressure receiving part 48 pushes the lever part 42 becomes smaller. The valve part 47 located at the closed position moves to the open position by elasticity. The valve part 47 opens the flow path 26. The valve part 47 pushes the second passive part 55 in the upward pushing direction Du. When the second passive part 55 moves in the upward pushing direction Du, the lever part 42 causes the first passive part 54 to push the pressure receiving part 48 in the downward pushing direction Dd. The pressure receiving part 48 displaces so as to increase the volume of the first space 50.

[0049] <Operation of the First Embodiment> The operation of this embodiment will be described. When the reduced pressure source 18 reduces the pressure in the first space 50, the pressure-receiving portion 48 is displaced. The lever portion 42 presses the valve portion 47 in a direction to close the flow path 26, based on the displacement of the pressure-receiving portion 48 due to the reduced pressure in the first space 50. When the reduced pressure in the first space 50 is released, the valve portion 47 opens the flow path 26.

[0050] <Advantages of the First Embodiment> The effects of this embodiment will be described. (1-1) The pressure-receiving portion 48 is displaced by the reduced pressure in the first space 50. The lever portion 42 presses the valve portion 47 based on the displacement of the pressure-receiving portion 48, thereby closing the flow path 26. When the first space 50 is depressurized, the adhesion between the pressure-receiving portion 48 and the first lid member 41 is less likely to decrease than when the first space 50 is pressurized. Therefore, the occurrence of leakage can be suppressed.

[0051] (1-2) When the reduced pressure source 18 reduces the pressure in the second space 62, the second flexible member 58 is displaced so as to increase the volume of the liquid chamber 63. As the volume of the liquid chamber 63 increases, the liquid draws in the liquid. When the atmosphere communication section 16 connects the second space 62 to the atmosphere, the second flexible member 58 is displaced by the biasing force of the biasing member 60 so as to reduce the volume of the liquid chamber 63, and pushes the liquid out of the liquid chamber 63. Therefore, the reduced pressure source 18, which closes the flow path 26, can supply pressurized liquid to the liquid discharge section 15.

[0052] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the liquid ejection device will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it has multiple flow paths. In other respects, the second embodiment is substantially the same as the first embodiment, so that the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and a duplicated description will be omitted.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 2, the liquid ejection device 11 may include a plurality of flow paths 26. The plurality of flow paths 26 may be connected to different liquid storage portions 24 respectively. One or more liquid storage portions 24 may be attachable to the attachment portion 13. The liquid ejection device 11 may include a plurality of attachment portions 13. The plurality of liquid storage portions 24 may store different types of liquids respectively. A plurality of types of fluids flow through the plurality of flow paths 26 respectively. The plurality of flow paths 26 supply a plurality of types of liquids to the liquid ejection portion 15. The liquid ejection portion 15 ejects a plurality of types of liquids.

[0054] A supply pump 27 and an adjustment portion 28 are provided in each of the plurality of flow paths 26 respectively. The liquid ejection device 11 includes a plurality of supply pumps 27 and a plurality of adjustment portions 28. The liquid ejection device 11 may include one valve mechanism 29 and one pressurization portion 30 for the plurality of flow paths 26. The valve mechanism 29 and the pressurization portion 30 of the present embodiment are provided in the middle of the plurality of flow paths 26.

[0055] <Valve mechanism> As shown in FIG. 2, a part of each of the plurality of flow paths 26 is formed in the first base body 39. The first base body 39 may have a plurality of valve seats 45.

[0056] The first flexible member 40 may have a plurality of valve portions 47. The plurality of valve portions 47 may be arranged in the short side direction D2 of the lever portion 42. The plurality of valve portions 47 are provided in each of the plurality of flow paths 26 respectively. The plurality of valve portions 47 can close the plurality of flow paths 26 respectively.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 3, the first flexible member 40 may have one pressure receiving portion 48 and a plurality of valve portions 47. The valve mechanism 29 may include a plurality of first flexible members 40. The first flexible member 40 of the present embodiment has one pressure receiving portion 48 and two valve portions 47. The area of the one pressure receiving portion 48 on which the pressure of the first space 50 acts is larger than the sum of the areas of the two valve portions 47 on which the pressure of the first space 50 acts.

[0058] The valve mechanism 29 may include a plurality of pressing members 43. The pressing members 43 have a first edge portion 43a, a second edge portion 43b, a third edge portion 43c, and a fourth edge portion 43d. The first edge portion 43a, the third edge portion 43c, and the fourth edge portion 43d are located between the pressure receiving portion 48 and the valve portion 47 in the longitudinal direction D1. The first edge portion 43a and the third edge portion 43c extend linearly in the longitudinal direction D1. The second edge portion 43b is located between the multiple valve portions 47 in the lateral direction D2. The second edge portion 43b extends linearly in the lateral direction D2. The fourth edge portion 43d extends in an arc shape along the edge of the pressure receiving portion 48.

[0059] 4, the first edge 43a, the second edge 43b, and the third edge 43c are located on the outside of the lever portion 42. The first cover member 41 presses the first edge 43a, the second edge 43b, and the third edge 43c. The first cover member 41 presses the outer periphery of the first flexible member 40 and also presses the pressing member 43. The first cover member 41 presses the inside of the first flexible member 40 via the pressing member 43.

[0060] The valve mechanism 29 may include a plurality of lever portions 42. The valve mechanism 29 may include a plurality of support columns 51. The plurality of lever portions 42 can swing about the tip of each of the support columns 51 as a fulcrum such that the inclination with respect to the longitudinal direction D1 changes.

[0061] The lever portion 42 may have one or more positioning portions 69. The positioning portions 69 limit the movement of the lever portion 42 in the longitudinal direction D1. 2, the fulcrum portion 53 may be located at the center of the lever portion 42 in the short-side direction D2. The lever portion 42 can swing around the tip of the support 51 as a fulcrum so that the inclination with respect to the short-side direction D2 changes. The lever portion 42 inclines following the multiple valve portions 47 when the positions of the multiple valve portions 47 in the push-up direction Du are different.

[0062] <Pressure section> 2, second cover member 59 forms a plurality of second spaces 62 between itself and second flexible member 58. Second flexible member 58 forms a plurality of liquid chambers 63 between itself and second base 57. That is, pressurizing unit 30 includes a plurality of liquid chambers 63. The plurality of second spaces 62 are formed at positions corresponding to the plurality of liquid chambers 63, respectively.

[0063] The pressurizing portion 30 includes a plurality of biasing members 60. The plurality of biasing members 60 are respectively provided in the second space 62. The plurality of biasing members 60 each bias the second flexible member 58 in a direction in which the volume of the liquid chamber 63 becomes smaller.

[0064] At least a portion of each liquid chamber 63 is formed by the second flexible member 58. The liquid chambers 63 each form a portion of a different flow path 26. The liquid chamber 63 is provided between the valve mechanism 29 and the liquid ejection portion 15 in each flow path 26.

[0065] The second lid member 59 is provided with a plurality of second communication holes 65. The second communication holes 65 communicate between the reduced pressure source 18 and the second space 62. The atmosphere communication portion 16 can communicate the interiors of the plurality of second spaces 62 with the atmosphere.

[0066] <Method of controlling liquid ejection device> As shown in FIG. 2, when performing pressurized cleaning, the control unit 67 first reduces the pressure in the multiple second spaces 62 using the reduced pressure source 18. The control unit 67 may select, from the multiple second spaces 62, the second space 62 corresponding to the nozzle 23 for which pressurized cleaning is to be performed and reduce the pressure therein. When the pressure in the second space 62 is reduced, the portion of the second flexible member 58 that separates the second space 62 from the liquid chamber 63 is displaced in a direction that increases the volume of the liquid chamber 63. At this time, the multiple valve units 47 are positioned in the open position. Therefore, the pressurizing unit 30 draws liquid into one or more liquid chambers 63.

[0067] 2 and 4, the control unit 67 then reduces the pressure inside the first space 50 using the reduced pressure source 18. By reducing the pressure inside the first space 50, the control unit 67 displaces the pressure-receiving portion 48. The pressure-receiving portion 48 is displaced so as to reduce the volume of the first space 50.

[0068] The displacing pressure receiving portion 48 moves the first passive portion 54 in the push-up direction Du. At this time, the second passive portion 55 moves in the push-down direction Dd. The second passive portion 55 presses the multiple valve portions 47. The multiple valve portions 47 move to the closed position. That is, based on the displacement of the pressure receiving portion 48, the valve mechanism 29 causes the lever portion 42 to press the multiple valve portions 47 to close each of the multiple flow paths 26 in part.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 67 communicates the inside of the second spaces 62 with the atmosphere through the atmosphere communication unit 16. By communicating the inside of the second spaces 62 with the atmosphere, the control unit 67 presses the second flexible member 58 with the biasing force of the biasing members 60. At this time, the valve units 47 close the respective flow paths 26. Therefore, the biasing members 60 push the liquid in the liquid chambers 63 toward the liquid ejection unit 15. This causes the liquid to overflow from the nozzle 23. That is, the liquid with increased viscosity and foreign matter are discharged from the nozzle 23. The control unit 67 may execute wiping by causing a wiper (not shown) to wipe the liquid ejection unit 15.

[0070] The control unit 67 releases the reduced pressure in the first space 50. When the reduced pressure in the first space 50 is released, the force with which the pressure-receiving portion 48 presses the lever portion 42 decreases. The multiple valve portions 47, which are in the closed position, move to the open position due to their elasticity. The multiple valve portions 47 press the lever portion 42 in the push-up direction Du. When the second passive portion 55 of the lever portion 42 is pressed by the valve portion 47, the first passive portion 54 presses the pressure-receiving portion 48 in the push-down direction Dd. The pressure-receiving portion 48 is displaced so as to increase the volume of the first space 50.

[0071] <Operation of the Second Embodiment> The operation of this embodiment will be described. When the reduced pressure source 18 reduces the pressure in the first space 50, the pressure-receiving portion 48 is displaced. The lever portion 42 presses the valve portions 47 in a direction to close the flow paths 26, based on the displacement of the pressure-receiving portion 48 due to the reduced pressure in the first space 50. When the reduced pressure in the first space 50 is released, the valve portions 47 open the flow paths 26.

[0072] <Effects of the second embodiment> The effects of this embodiment will be described. (2-1) A plurality of flow paths 26 can be closed by one lever portion 42. Therefore, the configuration can be simplified compared to a case where a plurality of valve portions 47 and the same number of lever portions 42 are provided.

[0073] [Example of change] This embodiment can be modified as follows: This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that there is no technical contradiction.

[0074] The valve portion 47 and the pressure receiving portion 48 may be formed as separate members. The valve portion 47 may be, for example, a piston that does not have flexibility. The valve mechanism 29 may include a spring that urges the valve portion 47, which is in the closed position, toward the open position.

[0075] Either the second base 57 or the second lid member 59 may be formed integrally with the first base 39 . Either the second base 57 or the second cover member 59 may be formed integrally with the first cover member 41 . The pressure reducing unit 12 may not include at least one of the first pressure reducing path 19, the second pressure reducing path 20, and the third pressure reducing path 21. The pressure reducing source 18 may be provided directly in the first communication hole 52, for example.

[0076] The liquid ejection device 11 may release the reduced pressure in the first space 50 by sending air into the first space 50. The liquid ejection device 11 may release the reduced pressure in the first space 50 by connecting the first space 50 to the atmosphere. The atmosphere communication part 16 may connect the first space 50 to the atmosphere.

[0077] The first lid member 41 may not have the first communication hole 52. For example, the valve mechanism 29 may sandwich the member that configures the second pressure reduction path 20 between the first lid member 41 and the first flexible member 40.

[0078] · The second lid member 59 may be configured not to have the second communication hole 65. For example, the pressurizing portion 30 may sandwich the member constituting the third decompression path 21 between the second lid member 59 and the second flexible member 58.

[0079] · The first flexible member 40 may have a plurality of pressure receiving portions 48 and a plurality of valve portions 47. The two first flexible members 40 in the second embodiment may be integrally formed. · The valve mechanism 29 may be provided in the middle of the flow path through which the gas flows. For example, the valve mechanism 29 may be provided in at least one of the first decompression path 19, the second decompression path 20, and the third decompression path 21.

[0080] · The liquid ejection device 11 may include a plurality of valve mechanisms 29. The plurality of valve mechanisms 29 may be respectively provided in the plurality of flow paths 26. · The liquid ejection device 11 may include a plurality of pressurizing portions 30. The plurality of pressurizing portions 30 may be respectively provided in the plurality of flow paths 26.

[0081] The liquid ejection device 11 may be a liquid ejection device that ejects or ejects liquid other than ink. The state of the liquid ejected from the liquid ejection device as minute droplets includes granular, teardrop, and thread-like tails. The liquid here may be any material that can be ejected from the liquid ejection device. For example, the liquid may be any state in which the substance is in a liquid phase, and includes fluids such as high or low viscosity liquids, sols, gel water, other inorganic solvents, organic solvents, solutions, liquid resins, liquid metals, and metal melts. The liquid includes not only liquids as one state of matter, but also particles of functional materials made of solids such as pigments and metal particles dissolved, dispersed, or mixed in a solvent. Representative examples of liquids include inks and liquid crystals as described in the above embodiment. Here, the ink includes various liquid compositions such as general water-based inks and oil-based inks, as well as gel inks and hot melt inks. Specific examples of the liquid ejection device include a device that ejects a liquid containing materials such as electrode materials and color materials in a dispersed or dissolved form, which are used in the manufacture of liquid crystal displays, electroluminescence displays, surface-emitting displays, and color filters. The liquid ejection device may be a device that ejects biological organic matter used in the manufacture of biochips, a device that ejects liquid as a sample used as a precision pipette, a textile printing device, a microdispenser, or the like. The liquid ejection device may be a device that ejects lubricating oil at a pinpoint onto precision machinery such as a watch or camera, or a device that ejects transparent resin liquid such as ultraviolet curing resin onto a substrate to form a micro hemispherical lens, optical lens, or the like used in optical communication elements. The liquid ejection device may be a device that ejects an etching liquid such as an acid or alkali to etch a substrate or the like.

[0082] [Definition] The term "at least one" as used herein means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, the term "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "both of two options" if the number of options is two. As another example, the term "at least one" as used herein means "only one option", "any combination of two options", or "any combination of three or more options" if the number of options is three or more.

[0083] [Note] The technical ideas and effects obtained from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described below.

[0084] (A) The valve mechanism is a valve mechanism provided midway through a flow path through which a fluid flows, and includes a base that forms a part of the flow path, a valve portion that can close the flow path, a flexible pressure-receiving portion, a first cover member that forms a first space between the pressure-receiving portion and the pressure-receiving portion, and a lever portion that is provided within the first space, and the lever portion presses the valve portion in a direction that closes the flow path based on displacement of the pressure-receiving portion due to reduced pressure in the first space.

[0085] According to this configuration, the pressure-receiving portion is displaced by the reduction in pressure in the first space. The lever portion presses the valve portion based on the displacement of the pressure-receiving portion, thereby closing the flow path. When the first space is reduced in pressure, the adhesion between the pressure-receiving portion and the first lid member is less likely to decrease than when the first space is pressurized. Therefore, the occurrence of leakage can be suppressed.

[0086] (B) A liquid ejection device includes a valve mechanism configured as described above, a liquid ejection section that ejects liquid, the flow path that supplies the liquid to the liquid ejection section, and a reduced pressure source, wherein the first cover member has a first communication hole for communicating the reduced pressure source with the first space, and the reduced pressure source may be capable of reducing the pressure in the first space via the first communication hole.

[0087] According to this configuration, it is possible to achieve the same effects as the above-mentioned valve mechanism. (C) The liquid ejection device may further include a liquid chamber provided in the flow path between the valve mechanism and the liquid ejection portion, the liquid chamber being at least partially constituted by a flexible member having flexibility, a biasing member biasing the flexible member in a direction reducing the volume of the liquid chamber, a second cover member forming a second space between the flexible member and a second communication hole provided therein for communicating between the reduced pressure source and the second space, and an atmosphere communication portion capable of communicating the second space with the atmosphere.

[0088] According to this configuration, when the reduced pressure source reduces the pressure in the second space, the flexible member is displaced to increase the volume of the liquid chamber. As the volume of the liquid chamber increases, the liquid draws in. When the atmosphere communication portion connects the second space to the atmosphere, the biasing force of the biasing member causes the flexible member to be displaced to reduce the volume of the liquid chamber, pushing the liquid out of the liquid chamber. Therefore, the reduced pressure source that closes the flow path allows the liquid to be pressurized and supplied to the liquid discharge portion.

[0089] (D) The valve mechanism is a valve mechanism provided midway through a plurality of flow paths through which a plurality of types of fluids respectively flow, and comprises a base which constitutes a portion of each of the plurality of flow paths, a plurality of valve portions capable of closing each of the plurality of flow paths, a flexible pressure-receiving portion, a first cover member which forms a first space between the pressure-receiving portion, and a lever portion provided within the first space, and the lever portion pushes the plurality of valve portions in a direction to close the plurality of flow paths based on displacement of the pressure-receiving portion due to reduced pressure in the first space.

[0090] According to this configuration, in addition to the same effect as the above valve mechanism, multiple flow paths can be closed by one lever portion, which simplifies the configuration compared to a case where multiple valve portions and the same number of lever portions are provided.

[0091] (E) A liquid ejection device includes a valve mechanism having the above-described configuration, a liquid ejection section that ejects multiple types of liquid, a plurality of flow paths that supply the multiple types of liquid to the liquid ejection section, and a reduced pressure source, wherein the first cover member has a first communication hole for communicating the reduced pressure source with the first space, and the reduced pressure source may be capable of reducing the pressure within the first space via the first communication hole.

[0092] According to this configuration, it is possible to achieve the same effects as the above-mentioned valve mechanism. (F) The liquid ejection device may further include a plurality of liquid chambers, each of which is provided between the valve mechanism and the liquid ejection portion in a plurality of the flow paths and is at least partially constituted by a flexible member having flexibility, a plurality of biasing members which bias the flexible member in a direction which reduces the volume of the plurality of the liquid chambers, a second cover member which forms a plurality of second spaces between the flexible member at positions corresponding to the plurality of the liquid chambers and which is provided with a plurality of second communication holes for communicating the reduced pressure source with the plurality of the second spaces, and an atmosphere communication portion which can communicate the inside of the plurality of the second spaces with the atmosphere.

[0093] According to this configuration, it is possible to achieve the same effects as those of the above-mentioned liquid ejection device. (G) A method of controlling a liquid ejection device includes a liquid ejection unit that ejects liquid, a flow path that supplies the liquid to the liquid ejection unit, a reduced pressure source, a base that constitutes a part of the flow path, a valve unit that can close the flow path, a flexible pressure receiving unit, a first lid member that forms a first space between the pressure receiving unit and the lever unit, a liquid chamber that is provided in the flow path between the valve unit and the liquid ejection unit and at least a part of which is made of a flexible member that has flexibility, a biasing member that biases the flexible member in a direction that reduces the volume of the liquid chamber, a second lid member that forms a second space between the flexible member and the second lid member, and a lever member that exposes the second space to the atmosphere. a pressure reducing source for reducing the pressure inside the second space, thereby displacing the flexible member in a direction in which the volume of the liquid chamber increases, thereby drawing the liquid into the liquid chamber; a pressure reducing source for reducing the pressure inside the first space, thereby displacing the pressure receiving portion; a pressure reducing source for reducing the pressure inside the first space, thereby displacing the pressure receiving portion; a pressure reducing member for causing the lever portion to press the valve portion to close a portion of the flow path based on the displacement of the pressure receiving portion; and a pressure reducing member for causing the flexible member to press the liquid in the liquid chamber toward the liquid ejection portion, thereby communicating the second space with the atmosphere via the atmosphere communicating portion.

[0094] According to this method, it is possible to achieve the same effects as those of the above-mentioned liquid ejection device. (H) A method of controlling a liquid ejection device includes a liquid ejection section that ejects a plurality of types of liquid, a plurality of flow paths that supply the plurality of types of liquid to the liquid ejection section, a reduced pressure source, a base in which each of the plurality of flow paths is partially configured, a plurality of valve sections that can close the plurality of flow paths, a flexible pressure receiving section, a first cover member that forms a first space between the pressure receiving section, a lever section that is provided within the first space, a plurality of liquid chambers that are at least partially configured by a flexible member that is flexible and are provided between the valve section and the liquid ejection section in the plurality of flow paths, a plurality of biasing members that bias the flexible member in a direction that reduces the volume of the plurality of liquid chambers, and a second cover member that forms a plurality of second spaces between the flexible member at positions corresponding to the plurality of liquid chambers. and an atmosphere communication portion capable of communicating the insides of the second spaces with the atmosphere, the control method including: reducing the pressure inside the second spaces with the reduced pressure source, thereby displacing the flexible member in a direction in which the volumes of the multiple liquid chambers increase, thereby drawing the liquid into the multiple liquid chambers; reducing the pressure inside the first space with the reduced pressure source, thereby displacing the pressure-receiving portion; based on the displacement of the pressure-receiving portion, causing the lever portion to press the multiple valve portions to close each of the multiple flow paths; and communicating the insides of the second spaces with the atmosphere using the atmosphere communication portion, thereby pushing the flexible member with the biasing forces of the multiple biasing members, thereby pushing the liquid in the multiple liquid chambers toward the liquid ejection portion.

[0095] According to this method, it is possible to achieve the same effects as those of the above-mentioned liquid ejection device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 11...liquid discharge device, 12...pressure reduction section, 13...mounting section, 14...supply mechanism, 15...liquid discharge section, 16...atmosphere communication section, 18...pressure reduction source, 19...first pressure reduction path, 20...second pressure reduction path, 21...third pressure reduction path, 23...nozzle, 24...liquid storage section, 26...flow path, 27...supply pump, 28...adjustment section, 29...valve mechanism, 30...pressurization section, 32...first one-way valve, 33...second one-way valve, 34...displacement section, 35...pump chamber, 36...pressure chamber, 37...spring, 39...first base which is an example of a base, 40...first flexible member, 41...first cover member, 42...lever section, 43...pressure even member, 43a...first edge portion, 43b...second edge portion, 43c...third edge portion, 43d...fourth edge portion, 45...valve seat, 47...valve portion, 48...pressure receiving portion, 50...first space, 51...support, 52...first communicating hole, 53...fulcrum portion, 54...first passive portion, 55...second passive portion, 57...second base, 58...second flexible member which is an example of a flexible member, 59...second cover member, 60...biasing member, 62...second space, 63...liquid chamber, 65...second communicating hole, 67...control portion, 69...positioning portion, D1...longitudinal direction, D2...transverse direction, Dd...pressing direction, Ds...supply direction, Du...push-up direction.

Claims

1. A valve mechanism provided in a flow path through which a fluid flows, A substrate on which a part of the flow path is formed; A valve portion capable of closing the flow path; A pressure receiving portion having flexibility; A first cover member that forms a first space between the pressure receiving portion and the first cover member; A lever portion provided in the first space; Equipped with The valve mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the lever portion pushes the valve portion in a direction to close the flow path based on displacement of the pressure-receiving portion due to reduced pressure in the first space.

2. A valve mechanism according to claim 1; a liquid ejection unit that ejects liquid; the flow path for supplying the liquid to the liquid ejection unit; A reduced pressure source; Equipped with the first cover member has a first communication hole for communicating between the reduced pressure source and the first space, The liquid ejection device, wherein the reduced pressure source is capable of reducing pressure inside the first space through the first communication hole.

3. a liquid chamber provided in the flow path between the valve mechanism and the liquid ejection portion, the liquid chamber being at least partially constituted by a flexible member having flexibility; a biasing member that biases the flexible member in a direction in which the volume of the liquid chamber becomes smaller; a second cover member that forms a second space between the flexible member and the second cover member and that is provided with a second communication hole for communicating the reduced pressure source and the second space; an atmosphere communication portion capable of communicating the second space with the atmosphere; The liquid ejection device according to claim 2 , further comprising:

4. A valve mechanism provided in a plurality of flow paths through which a plurality of types of fluids flow, A substrate on which each of the plurality of flow paths is partially formed; A plurality of valve units capable of closing the plurality of flow paths, respectively; A pressure receiving portion having flexibility; A first cover member that forms a first space between the pressure receiving portion and the first cover member; A lever portion provided in the first space; Equipped with The valve mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the lever portion pushes the valve portions in a direction to close the flow paths based on displacement of the pressure-receiving portion due to reduced pressure in the first space.

5. A valve mechanism according to claim 4; A liquid ejection unit that ejects a plurality of types of liquid; a plurality of flow paths for supplying a plurality of types of liquid to the liquid ejection unit; A reduced pressure source; Equipped with the first cover member has a first communication hole for communicating between the reduced pressure source and the first space, The liquid ejection device, wherein the reduced pressure source is capable of reducing pressure inside the first space through the first communication hole.

6. a plurality of liquid chambers provided in the plurality of flow paths between the valve mechanism and the liquid ejection portion, the plurality of liquid chambers being at least partially constituted by a flexible member having flexibility; a plurality of biasing members that bias the flexible member in a direction in which the volumes of the plurality of liquid chambers become smaller; a second cover member that defines a plurality of second spaces between the flexible member and the second cover member at positions corresponding to the plurality of liquid chambers, and that is provided with a plurality of second communication holes for communicating the reduced pressure source with the plurality of second spaces; an atmosphere communication portion capable of communicating the inside of the second spaces with the atmosphere; The liquid ejection device according to claim 5 , further comprising:

7. a liquid ejection unit that ejects liquid; a flow path for supplying the liquid to the liquid ejection unit; A reduced pressure source; A substrate on which a part of the flow path is formed; A valve portion capable of closing the flow path; A pressure receiving portion having flexibility; A first cover member that forms a first space between the pressure receiving portion and the first cover member; A lever portion provided in the first space; a liquid chamber provided in the flow path between the valve portion and the liquid ejection portion, the liquid chamber being at least partially constituted by a flexible member having flexibility; a biasing member that biases the flexible member in a direction in which the volume of the liquid chamber becomes smaller; a second cover member that forms a second space between the flexible member and the second cover member; an atmosphere communication portion capable of communicating the second space with the atmosphere; A method for controlling a liquid ejection device comprising: a pressure reduction source for reducing pressure in the second space to displace the flexible member in a direction in which a volume of the liquid chamber increases, thereby drawing the liquid into the liquid chamber; Decompressing the first space with the decompression source to displace the pressure-receiving portion; pressing the lever portion against the valve portion based on a displacement of the pressure receiving portion to close a portion of the flow path; the second space is connected to the atmosphere through the atmosphere communication portion, whereby the biasing force of the biasing member is used to push the flexible member and push out the liquid in the liquid chamber toward the liquid ejection portion; A method for controlling a liquid ejection device, comprising:

8. A liquid ejection unit that ejects a plurality of types of liquid; a plurality of flow paths for supplying a plurality of types of the liquid to the liquid ejection unit; A reduced pressure source; A substrate on which each of the plurality of flow paths is partially formed; A plurality of valve units capable of closing a plurality of the flow paths; A pressure receiving portion having flexibility; A first cover member that forms a first space between the pressure receiving portion and the first cover member; A lever portion provided in the first space; a plurality of liquid chambers provided in the plurality of flow paths between the valve portion and the liquid ejection portion, the plurality of liquid chambers being at least partially constituted by a flexible member having flexibility; a plurality of biasing members that bias the flexible member in a direction in which the volumes of the plurality of liquid chambers become smaller; a second cover member that defines a plurality of second spaces between the second cover member and the flexible member at positions corresponding to the plurality of liquid chambers; an atmosphere communication portion capable of communicating the inside of the second spaces with the atmosphere; A method for controlling a liquid ejection device comprising: by reducing pressure in the second spaces by the reduced pressure source, the flexible member is displaced in a direction in which the volumes of the liquid chambers are increased, thereby drawing the liquid into the liquid chambers; Decompressing the first space with the decompression source to displace the pressure-receiving portion; pressing the lever portion against the valve portions based on a displacement of the pressure receiving portion to close a portion of each of the flow paths; the second spaces are connected to the atmosphere by the atmosphere communication portion, so that the flexible member is pushed by the biasing forces of the biasing members to push out the liquid in the liquid chambers toward the liquid ejection portion; A method for controlling a liquid ejection device, comprising:

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