Manufacturing method of liquid storage body, liquid storage body, and liquid discharge device

Abstract

To provide a manufacturing method of a liquid storage body capable of suppressing generation of a wrinkle.SOLUTION: A manufacturing method of a liquid storage body includes: an insertion step of inserting a spout to the inside of a bag body in which a first film having a non-smooth part and a smooth second film are welded; and a welding step of welding the first film and the second film to the spout. In the welding step, a protrusion provided in the welding device presses the second film and the spout, so that a recess is formed in a welding part of the second film and the spout.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a liquid container, a liquid container, and a liquid ejection device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a liquid container in which a liquid lead-out member (spout) is welded to the mouth of the bag, and a method for manufacturing the liquid container. In the manufacturing method of Patent Document 1, the liquid lead-out member is inserted into the bag from the mouth of the bag, and after positioning is performed so that the tip surface of the liquid lead-out member coincides with the edge of the bag, the welded portion of the liquid lead-out member is welded to the mouth of the bag. The manufacturing method of Patent Document 1 makes it possible to obtain a liquid container in which the liquid lead-out member, excluding the tip surface, is embedded in the bag, thereby reducing the amount of outside air that enters the bag. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-172918 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the manufacturing process of a liquid container, two films are prepared, and for some purpose, an uneven portion including a recess, a protrusion, or both is formed on one of the films. In this case, the film with the uneven portion and the film without the uneven portion are aligned and then welded together.

[0005] The length of a film having an uneven portion may be shorter than the length of a film without an uneven portion due to the formation of the uneven portion. When two films of different lengths are aligned and welded together, wrinkles may occur at the welded portion of the film. The occurrence of these wrinkles may allow outside air to enter the bag from the outside. Despite this, Patent Document 1 makes no mention of preventing wrinkles from occurring when the film is welded.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for manufacturing a liquid container that can prevent wrinkles from occurring. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The manufacturing method disclosed herein is a method for manufacturing a liquid container, and includes an insertion step of inserting a spout into a bag body formed by welding a first film having a non-smooth portion and a smooth second film facing each other, for guiding liquid contained inside the bag body to the outside, and a welding step of welding the first film to the spout using a first welding device and welding the second film to the spout using a second welding device, wherein in the welding step, a convex portion provided on the second welding device presses against the second film and the spout, thereby forming a concave portion in the welded portion between the second film and the spout. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the manufacturing method of the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent wrinkles from occurring in the welded portion of the bag body. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a liquid ejection apparatus that can be applied to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating an example of a liquid container that can be applied to an embodiment. [Figure 3]10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a liquid container that can be applied to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating one step of a manufacturing method. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating one step of a manufacturing method. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating one step of a manufacturing method. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating one step of a manufacturing method. [Figure 8] 1(a) is a schematic plan view of a first welded horn and a second welded horn, and FIG.1(b) is a schematic plan cross-sectional view of a liquid container. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating one step of a manufacturing method. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating one step of a manufacturing method. [Figure 11] 1A is a diagram showing an example of a second welded horn that can be used in an embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a bottom view of a liquid container that can be applied to an embodiment. [Figure 12] 1A is a diagram showing an example of a second welded horn that can be used in an embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a bottom view of a liquid container that can be applied to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] [First embodiment] <Liquid discharge device 100> FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a liquid ejection device 100 that can be applied to this embodiment.

[0011] A liquid ejection device 100 (for example, an inkjet recording device) repeats reciprocating movement of a liquid ejection head 101 (main scanning in the ±X directions) and conveyance of a recording sheet S, which is a recording medium, at a predetermined pitch (sub-scanning in the -Y direction). The liquid ejection device 100 selectively ejects liquids (for example, inks) of multiple colors from the liquid ejection head 101 in synchronization with these movements, and causes the liquids to land on the recording sheet S, which is a recording medium, thereby forming characters, symbols, images, and the like.

[0012] Any medium may be used as the recording medium as long as it is capable of forming an image by impacting ink droplets on it, including media of various materials and shapes, such as paper, cloth, optical disc labels, plastic sheets, overhead projector sheets, and envelopes.

[0013] The liquid ejection head 101 is slidably supported on two guide rails 102 and is detachably mounted on a carriage 103 that is moved back and forth in a straight line along the guide rails 102 by a driving means such as a motor (not shown). A recording sheet S that receives the liquid ejected from the liquid ejection portion of the liquid ejection head 101 is conveyed by a conveying roller 104, which serves as a conveying means, in a direction that intersects with the moving direction of the carriage 103, facing the liquid ejection surface of the liquid ejection head 101. The liquid ejection head 101 has a plurality of nozzle rows as a plurality of liquid ejection portions, each for ejecting liquid of a different color.

[0014] A plurality of independent liquid containers 105a-d are detachably attached to a liquid supply unit 106 in correspondence with the colors of the liquid to be ejected from the liquid ejection head 101 (for example, yellow, magenta, cyan, and black).

[0015] Hereinafter, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between the liquid storage containers 105a to 105d, they will be referred to as liquid storage containers 105. The colors of the liquid are not limited to the four colors described above. Liquids of three to five colors other than the four colors described above may also be used.

[0016] The liquid container 105 contains a liquid container 200 (see FIG. 2) capable of containing liquid therein, which will be described later.

[0017] The liquid supply unit 106 and the liquid ejection head 101 are connected by a plurality of liquid supply tubes 107, each corresponding to a different color of liquid. By attaching the liquid storage container 105 to the liquid supply unit 106, it becomes possible to supply each color of liquid stored inside the liquid storage container 105 to each nozzle row of the liquid ejection head 101 independently.

[0018] In a non-printing region, which is within the reciprocating movement range of the liquid ejection head 101 but outside the range through which the recording sheet S passes, a recovery unit 108 is disposed so as to face the liquid ejection surface of the liquid ejection head 101. The recovery unit 108 has a cap portion for capping the liquid ejection surface of the liquid ejection head 101, a suction mechanism for forcibly sucking liquid while the liquid ejection port surface is capped, and a cleaning blade for wiping dirt off the liquid ejection surface. The suction operation described above is performed by this recovery unit 108 prior to the recording operation of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0019] As a result, even when the liquid ejection device 100 is operated after being left unused for a long period of time, the recovery process performed by the recovery unit 108 can remove residual air bubbles in the ejection portion of the liquid ejection head 101 and thickened liquid near the ejection ports, etc. This allows the ejection characteristics of the liquid ejection head 101 to be maintained.

[0020] <Liquid container 200> 2(a) is a diagram showing an example of a liquid container 200 that can be applied to this embodiment. The X, Y, and Z directions in the diagram indicate the directions in a state where the liquid container 200 is contained in the liquid container 105 (see FIG. 1).

[0021] 2(a), the liquid container 200 mainly includes a flexible bag 201 and a resin spout 202. The bag 201 is formed into a bag shape by welding the outer peripheries of multiple films. It is preferable that the shape of the bag 201 becomes more flat when the liquid is used up.

[0022] In the bag 201 of this embodiment, an uneven portion 203 is formed only on the surface so as to be able to contain bubbles generated inside the bag 201 when the liquid container 200 is in the usage position. The spout 202 is disposed at the end of the bag 201 and is configured to be able to discharge the liquid contained inside the bag 201 to the outside. The spout 202 is made of a resin such as polypropylene or polyethylene.

[0023] FIG. 2(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line IIb-IIb in FIG. 2(a).

[0024] As shown in FIG. 2(b), the liquid container 200 includes a first film 204 having an uneven portion 203 including at least one of a recessed portion and a protruding portion, and a second film 205 welded to face the first film 204. The spout 202 is inserted into the bag body 201 to which the first film 204 and the second film 205 are welded. The spout 202 includes a first welded portion 202a for welding the first film 204 and a second welded portion 202b for welding the second film 205. A recessed portion 209 is formed in the second welded portion 202b. The recessed portion 209 is formed on a side closer to the insertion opening through which the spout 202 is inserted than the center of the second welded portion 202b.

[0025] In this embodiment, the non-smooth portion 203 is a convex portion. When the liquid container 200 is in a position where it is used (a position where the -Z direction faces the direction of gravity), the interior of the non-smooth portion 203 is hollow. The liquid container 200 is an ink pack that can be attached to an inkjet recording apparatus. The non-smooth portion 203 functions as a reservoir for bubbles that are generated inside the bag body 201 when the liquid container 200 is attached to the inkjet recording apparatus. The spout 202 includes a supply port 206 for supplying liquid to the outside, and an outlet portion 207 that is located at the innermost position of the bag body 201 when the spout 202 is welded to the bag body 201 and that is for guiding the liquid to the supply port 206.

[0026] In this embodiment, the uneven portion 203 is formed in the bag body 201 before the bag body 201 and the spout 202 are welded together. On the other hand, the recess 209 is formed to prevent wrinkles from forming in the second film 205 while the second film 205 is being welded to the spout 202. When the first film 204 having the uneven portion 203 and the smooth second film 205 are welded together with the spout 202 sandwiched therebetween, wrinkles may form due to a relative misalignment between the first film 204 and the second film 205. These wrinkles are particularly likely to form near the tip of the second welded portion 202b. In this embodiment, by forming the recess 209 near the tip of the second welded portion 202b when the second film 205 and the spout 202 are welded together, the occurrence of wrinkles can be effectively prevented.

[0027] It is preferable that recess 209 be formed on the side away from lead-out portion 207 rather than the center of second welded portion 202b. This is because, while second film 205 is being welded to spout 202, deformation of second welded portion 202b is allowed, but deformation of lead-out portion 207 is not allowed. For example, it is preferable that recess 209 be formed at a position 5 mm or more away from lead-out portion 207 in the +Y direction in the figure.

[0028] The length from the opening to the deepest part of the recess 209 (length in the Z direction) and the length of the short side of the opening of the recess 209 (length in the Y direction) are each 1.4 mm to 2.0 mm. Of course, the size of the recess 209 is not limited to the above example.

[0029] This will also be described in detail later, but by setting the length of the recess 209 in the Z direction and the length of the recess 209 to 1.4 mm to 2.0 mm, it is possible to prevent wrinkles from occurring during the formation of the recess 209. The size of the recess 209 may be changed as appropriate depending on the size of the liquid container 200 and the size and number of the non-smooth portion 203.

[0030] Furthermore, the structure of first film 204 and second film 205 preferably includes an inner layer located inside bag body 201 when bag body 201 is formed, and an outer layer located outside bag body 201. The outer layer of first film 204 and the outer layer of second film 205 preferably contain a metal. For example, the outer layer of first film 204 and the outer layer of second film 205 preferably contain aluminum. This is because aluminum has relatively low gas permeability, and therefore the gas barrier property is improved compared to when the outer layer of bag body 201 does not contain a metal.

[0031] On the other hand, the inner layer of the first film 204 and the inner layer of the second film 205 preferably contain a resin. For example, the inner layer of the first film 204 and the inner layer of the second film 205 preferably contain polypropylene or polyethylene. This is because polypropylene and polyethylene have liquid-wettability.

[0032] Note that being liquid-wettable means that a member is not affected by contact with a liquid (i.e., does not harden, become embrittled, or corrode), and that components contained in the member do not dissolve in the liquid. Therefore, as long as it has liquid-wettable properties, the inner layer of first film 204 and the inner layer of second film 205 may contain a material other than polypropylene or polyethylene.

[0033] Furthermore, by using the same type of resin for the materials constituting the first welding portion 202a and the inner layer of the first film 204, and the second welding portion 202b of the spout 202 and the inner layer of the second film 205, the melting points are the same, and welding properties can also be improved.

[0034] For example, suppose that first welded portion 202a and second welded portion 202b are made of polypropylene. In this case, by making the inner layer of first film 204 and the inner layer of second film 205 also from polypropylene, stronger sealing can be obtained compared to when these films are made of different materials.

[0035] When first welded portion 202a and second welded portion 202b are made of polyethylene, it is preferable that the inner layer of first film 204 and the inner layer of second film 205 are also made of polyethylene.

[0036] In this embodiment, the first film 204 and the second film 205 are described assuming a two-layer structure having an inner layer and an outer layer, but the first film 204 and the second film 205 may be a single-layer structure or may have three or more layers.

[0037] In addition, the spout 202 has a supply port 206 for supplying the liquid contained in the bag body 201 to the liquid discharger 100. A check valve 208 is disposed inside the outlet portion 207 to prevent backflow of the liquid and intrusion of air from the outside.

[0038] A large portion of the bag body 201 is made up of a liquid storage portion 210 capable of storing a liquid (for example, ink, etc.). The liquid ejection device 100 (see FIG. 1) is equipped with a negative pressure generating mechanism (for example, a pump, not shown) capable of sucking the liquid stored in the liquid storage portion 210 of the liquid container 200. The liquid stored in the liquid storage portion 210 is sucked into the liquid ejection device 100 due to the negative pressure generated by suction by this pump.

[0039] When the liquid is sucked and used up, it is preferable that the bag body 201 be crushed so as to approach a flattened shape as much as possible. However, if the bag body 201 near the spout 202 is crushed completely while liquid remains in the liquid storage portion 210, it becomes difficult to use up all of the liquid remaining behind. Therefore, the first film 204 of this embodiment is formed with a convex non-smooth portion 203 that is hollow inside when the liquid storage body 200 is in a position for use.

[0040] According to this configuration, even if the bag body 201 is completely crushed, the non-smooth portion 203 does not collapse, and in the orientation in which the liquid container 200 is used, air accumulates inside the non-smooth portion 203, making it possible to continue suctioning the liquid. Therefore, the presence of the non-smooth portion 203 improves the ease of using up the liquid compared to when the non-smooth portion 203 is not present.

[0041] <Method for manufacturing the liquid container 200> 3 is a flowchart showing a manufacturing method for the liquid container 200 (see FIG. 2(a) and the like) that can be applied to this embodiment. Note that the symbol "S" in the explanation of each process indicates a step in the flowchart.

[0042] In S301, first film 204, spout 202, second film 205, first welding device, second welding device, and third welding device (not shown) are prepared, which are not shown in Fig. 3. At this point, the size of first film 204 and the size of second film 205 are the same.

[0043] In S302, the uneven portion 203 (see FIG. 2(a) etc.) is formed on the first film 204. For example, the first film 204 is heated and the heated portion is sucked to form the uneven portion 203 in a convex shape. The first film 204 is stretched by the amount of the uneven portion 203 formed, and may become shorter in length or have a larger surface area than the second film 205.

[0044] In S303, the first film 204 and the second film 205 are bonded together, and the outer peripheries of the first film 204 and the second film 205 are welded together using a welding device (not shown), leaving a space for inserting the spout 202.

[0045] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining S303 (see FIG. 3).

[0046] As shown in Fig. 4, in S303, edge portions 400 on three consecutive sides of the outer peripheries of first film 204 and second film 205 are welded together. This forms bag body 201 having insertion opening 401 for inserting spout 202 (not shown in Fig. 4). Hereinafter, the manufacturing method of this embodiment will be described with reference again to Fig. 3.

[0047] In S304, insertion opening 401 (see FIG. 4) of bag body 201 (see FIG. 2(a) etc.) is widened, and a part of spout 202 (see FIG. 2(a) etc.) is inserted into the bag body 201 through insertion opening 401.

[0048] In S305, the bag body 201 into which the spout 202 has been inserted is positioned relative to the welding device.

[0049] Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining S305. In Figs. 5 to 7 and 9, the X direction, Y direction and Z direction are perpendicular to one another. The +Y direction indicates the anti-gravity direction, and the -Y direction indicates the gravity direction. The X direction and Z direction indicate two directions perpendicular to one another on a horizontal plane. In Figs. 5 to 7 and 9, the X direction is the depth direction of the liquid container 200 in the middle of manufacture, the Y direction is the height direction of the liquid container 200 in the middle of manufacture, and the Z direction is the width direction of the liquid container 200 in the middle of manufacture.

[0050] Furthermore, when the liquid container 200 is attached to the liquid ejection device 100, the -Z direction is the direction of gravity, the +Z direction is the anti-gravity direction, the +Y direction is the forward direction, the -Y direction is the backward direction, the -X direction is the left direction, and the +X direction is the right direction. In other words, when the liquid container 200 is attached to the liquid ejection device 100, the X direction is the width direction of the liquid container 200, the Y direction is the length direction of the liquid container 200, and the Z direction is the height direction of the liquid container 200.

[0051] 5, the welding device used in this embodiment includes a first welding device and a second welding device. In the positioning in S305, the upper end of first film 204 having non-smooth portion 203 may be positioned so as to be shifted in the −Y direction relative to the upper end of second film 205 having a smooth shape.

[0052] In this embodiment, a first welding horn 501 is used as the first welding device, and a second welding horn 502 is used as the second welding device. Second welding horn 502 has protrusions 503 formed thereon for pressing second film 205 and spout 202.

[0053] In S306, first film 204 is welded to spout 202 using first welding horn 501.

[0054] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining S306.

[0055] 6, first welding horn 501 is advanced toward first film 204 and spout 202 to weld first film 204 to spout 202. Hereinafter, the manufacturing method of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 3 again.

[0056] In S307, the second film 205 is welded to the spout 202 using the second welding horn 502.

[0057] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining S307.

[0058] 7, in S307, while first welding horn 501 is pressed against first welding portion 202a (not shown in FIG. 7), second welding horn 502 is advanced so as to approach second film 205 and spout 202. Then, second welding horn 502 is used to weld second film 205 to spout 202.

[0059] As described above, when S307 is performed, the length of first film 204 in the vertical direction in the drawing may be shorter than its original length due to the formation of non-smooth portion 203 in first film 204. That is, the upper end position of first film 204 may be lower than the upper end position of second film 205. If the welding step of bag body 201 and spout 202 is performed in this state, the upper end of second film 205 may be pulled more than necessary, which may cause wrinkles in second film 205.

[0060] Therefore, in this embodiment, welding is performed while pressing second film 205 from the outside toward the inside of spout 202 using convex portion 503 of second welding horn 502. According to this method, second film 205 is forced into spout 202, and welding can be performed while applying tension to second film 205. That is, because tension is applied to second film 205 while welding S307 is being performed, even if wrinkles occur in second film 205, the wrinkles can be stretched out and eliminated.

[0061] In particular, these wrinkles tend to occur near the leading edge of second film 205 (in other words, near insertion slot 401 (see FIG. 4)). Therefore, in order to effectively eliminate wrinkles that occur near the leading edge of second film 205, it is preferable that convex portion 503 be located near the leading edge of second film 205 while welding S307 is being performed.

[0062] For example, it is preferable that convex portion 503 be formed at a position within half the length from the tip (end on the +Y direction side) of second welding horn 502 to the other end (end on the -Y direction side) of second welding horn 502. With this configuration, convex portion 503 can be positioned near the tip of second film 205 while welding S307 is being performed, thereby effectively suppressing the occurrence of wrinkles near the tip of second film 205. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 7, the height of the tip of second film 205 can be made closer to the height of the tip of first film 204.

[0063] The lengths of the convex portions 503 in the Y and Z directions are preferably within the range of 1.4 mm to 2.0 mm. If the length of the convex portions 503 in the Y direction is too large compared to the length in the Z direction, the convex portions 503 may press down on the leading ends of the second film 205 during welding, which may actually cause wrinkles. For example, if the length of the convex portions 503 in the Y direction is 4 mm, the length of the convex portions 503 in the Z direction is preferably approximately 0.7 mm. This configuration can prevent the leading ends of the second film 205 from shifting position during welding.

[0064] FIG. 8( a ) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first welded horn 501 and the second welded horn 502 .

[0065] FIG. 8B is a schematic cross-sectional plan view of the liquid container 200. As shown in FIG.

[0066] 8(a) and 8(b), the first welded horn 501 has a recess 801 that corresponds to the shape of the first welded portion 202a of the spout 202. The second welded horn 502 has a recess 802 that corresponds to the shape of the second welded portion 202b of the spout 202. The shape of the deepest portion 802a of the recess 802 is smooth to correspond to the smooth portion of the second welded portion 202b. Both sides of the deepest portion 802a are curved to correspond to the curved portions of the second welded portion 202b.

[0067] In second welded horn 502, protrusion 503 protrudes from deepest part 802a toward the opening of recess 802. The length in the X direction of protrusion 503 is preferably within a range of 1 / 2 or more and less than 2 / 3 of the length in the X direction of deepest part 802a. If the length in the X direction of protrusion 503 is less than 1 / 2 of the length in the X direction of deepest part 802a, protrusion 503 will not be able to penetrate into second welded part 202b by an amount sufficient, making it difficult to prevent wrinkles during welding.

[0068] On the other hand, if the length of the convex portion 503 in the X direction is ⅔ or more of the length of the deepest portion 802a in the X direction, the convex portion 503 may interfere with the curved portion of the second welded portion 202b, which may result in a lack of stability in the weld.

[0069] For example, if the length of convex portion 503 in the Z direction is 1 mm or less, the amount of second film 205 pressed toward the inside of spout 202 is insufficient, making it difficult to expect an effect of eliminating wrinkles.

[0070] If the length of convex portion 503 in the Z direction is 3 mm or more, the amount of deformation of spout 202 may be too great, which may result in damage to outlet portion 207. Considering this point of view, as described above, the length of convex portion 503 in the Z direction is preferably within the range of 1.4 mm to 2.0 mm. Note that the size of convex portion 503 described above can be appropriately changed in design depending on the size of spout 202 (i.e., the capacity of the liquid container, etc.).

[0071] Hereinafter, the manufacturing method of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0072] In S308, the welded portions (first welded portion 202a and second welded portion 202b, not shown in FIG. 3) of bag body 201 and spout 202 are cooled. For example, the driving of the welding horn is stopped while the welded portions are supported by the welding device, and the welded portions are left for a predetermined time.

[0073] In S309, the first welded horn 501 and the second welded horn 502 are moved backward relative to the bag body 201.

[0074] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining S309.

[0075] 9, in S309, convex portion 503 of second welded horn 502 separates from second welded portion 202b, thereby forming concave portion 209 in the portion that was pressed by convex portion 503. Refer again to FIG. 3.

[0076] In S310, the unwelded portion 1000 (see FIG. 10) of the bag body 201 is welded using a third welding device (for example, a third welding horn not shown).

[0077] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining S310.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 10, in S310, the unwelded portion 1000 of the bag body 201 is welded using a third welding device.

[0079] In this embodiment, a relatively large insertion opening 401 is formed, spout 202 is inserted into insertion opening 401, spout 202 is welded to the center of insertion opening 401, and then unwelded portion 1000 of insertion opening 401 is welded. This method makes it easier to align spout 202 because spout 202 can be inserted into a relatively large insertion opening 401 than a method in which both sides of insertion opening 401 are welded and then spout 202 is inserted into the center of insertion opening 401.

[0080] Furthermore, compared to a method in which spout 202 is inserted into insertion opening 401, both sides of insertion opening 401 are welded, and then the center of insertion opening 401 is welded, it is possible to complete welding of the portion most susceptible to wrinkling, and then weld the remaining unwelded portion. Therefore, it is possible to prevent wrinkling from occurring over the entire width direction (X direction) of liquid container 200. Refer to FIG. 3 again.

[0081] In S311, the welded portion of the bag body 201 and the spout 202 is cooled.

[0082] In S312, the third welding device is moved backward relative to the bag body 201.

[0083] The liquid container of this embodiment is completed through the above steps. After that, by filling the interior of the bag body 201 with a predetermined liquid through the spout 202, it becomes a liquid container (ink pack) that can be used in a liquid ejection device.

[0084] As described above, in this embodiment, after inserting a portion of a spout into a bag having a first film with an uneven portion and a smooth second film through the insertion opening, the second film and the spout are welded together while deforming the second film, which reduces misalignment between the first film and the second film in the -Y direction and makes it possible to prevent wrinkles from occurring during welding.

[0085] During welding, the convex portion of the welding horn presses the second film, forming a recess in the second film that bites into the spout. The second film is stretched by the amount of this recess, reducing the size difference between the first film, which has a pre-formed uneven portion, and the smooth second film. In other words, because two films of approximately the same size are welded to one spout, wrinkles are less likely to occur, and even if wrinkles do occur, they can be expected to disappear.

[0086] Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent wrinkles from occurring in the welded portion of the bag body.

[0087] [Second embodiment] A second embodiment of the technology of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. The purpose of this embodiment is to provide a liquid container with superior sealing properties. In the following description, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components similar to or corresponding to those of the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted. The following description will focus on the differences.

[0088] FIG. 11(a) is a diagram showing an example of a second welded horn 502 that can be used in this embodiment.

[0089] 11(a), the second welded horn 502 in this embodiment has two protrusions 503 arranged along the X direction. In the welding step of this embodiment (see S307 in FIG. 3), the second welded horn 502 having these two protrusions 503 is used.

[0090] Fig. 11(b) is a bottom view of the liquid container 200 that can be applied to this embodiment. In Fig. 11(b), the liquid container 200 is shown in a state where it is attached to the liquid ejection device 100 (see Fig. 1).

[0091] As shown in Figure 11(b), in the liquid container 200 of this embodiment, two recesses 209 corresponding to the two protrusions 503 (see Figure 11(a)) described above are formed in the portion corresponding to the second welding portion 202b (see Figure 2(b) etc.).

[0092] In the welding step (see S307 in FIG. 3), second film 205 is deformed into a concave shape, and if this welding is insufficient, the elastic restoring force of second film 205 may cause second film 205 to peel off from spout 202. For example, if cooling in the cooling step (see S308 in FIG. 3) is insufficient, second film 205 may peel off when second welding horn 502 (see FIG. 9, etc.) is retracted relative to bag body 201 in S309 (see FIG. 3).

[0093] In this embodiment, recesses 209 smaller than recesses 209 in the first embodiment are formed in two locations, so the elastic restoring force of second film 205 generated in second welded part 202b is dispersed and smaller than in the first embodiment, thereby improving the sealing performance in second welded part 202b compared to the first embodiment.

[0094] Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of this modified example, it is possible to provide a liquid container having better sealing properties.

[0095] [Modification of the second embodiment] A modification of the second embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0096] FIG. 12(a) is a diagram showing an example of a second welded horn 502 that can be used in this modified example.

[0097] 12(a), the second welded horn 502 in this modification has four protrusions 503 arranged along the X direction. In the welding step of this modification (see S307 in FIG. 3), the second welded horn 502 having these four protrusions 503 is used.

[0098] Fig. 12(b) is a bottom view of the liquid container 200 that can be applied to this modification. In Fig. 12(b), the liquid container 200 is shown in a state where it is attached to the liquid ejection device 100 (see Fig. 1).

[0099] As shown in FIG. 12(b), four recesses 209 corresponding to the above-mentioned four protrusions 503 (see FIG. 11(a)) are formed in the second welded portion 202b (see FIG. 2(b) etc.) of this modified example. Note that the number of recesses 209 is not limited to two or four, as long as there is a plurality of them. Furthermore, the direction in which the plurality of recesses 209 are formed is not limited to the X direction. In other words, the plurality of recesses 209 may be formed along the Y direction.

[0100] In this modification, recesses 209 smaller than recess 209 shown in Fig. 11 are formed in four locations, so the elastic restoring force of second film 205 generated at second welded part 202b is more dispersed and smaller than in the example of Fig. 11. Therefore, the sealing performance at second welded part 202b is improved compared to the example of Fig. 11.

[0101] Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of this modified example, it is possible to provide a liquid container having better sealing properties than the example of FIG.

[0102] As explained above, the number and size of the protrusions 503 can be changed in various ways depending on the size and shape of the liquid container and the spout.

[0103] [Other embodiments] In the above embodiment, ink is used as the liquid, but the liquid that can be used in the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to ink. Various recording liquids can be used as the liquid other than ink, including treatment liquids used for the purposes of improving the fixation of ink on a recording medium, reducing uneven gloss, and improving abrasion resistance.

[0104] The order of the steps shown in FIG. 3 may be changed or omitted as necessary. Of course, multiple steps may be performed simultaneously. In particular, in the above embodiment, the steps of welding the first film and welding the second film were performed separately. However, all or some of these steps may be performed simultaneously or overlapping. If welding can be performed while pressing the second film from the outside toward the inside of the spout using the convex portion of the second welding horn, the relative misalignment between the first film and the second film can be alleviated, and the occurrence of wrinkles can be suppressed. Furthermore, while FIG. 3 illustrates a configuration in which the formation of the bag body 201 and the welding of the spout are performed in a single process, the present invention is not limited to this. A manufacturing method in which a pre-manufactured bag body and spout are prepared and only the steps from S304 onward are performed may also be used.

[0105] In the above embodiments, a pillow-type three-sided bag is used as the bag, but a gusseted bag with a gusset or other types of bag may also be used. In this case, the gusset is provided in each of the left film and the right film welded between the first film and the second film. Of course, the gusset may also be provided in the bottom film welded between the first film and the second film at a position facing the spout. In these cases, the spout is inserted into the bag with the gusset provided between the first film and the second film.

[0106] The present disclosure includes the following methods and compositions.

[0107] [Method 1] A method for manufacturing a liquid container, comprising: an insertion step of inserting a spout into a bag formed by welding a first film having an uneven portion and a smooth second film so as to face each other, for discharging a liquid contained in the bag to the outside; a welding step of welding the first film to the spout using a first welding device and welding the second film to the spout using a second welding device; Including, In the welding step, a protrusion provided on the second welding device presses the second film and the spout, thereby forming a recess in the welded portion between the second film and the spout; 10. A method for manufacturing a liquid container comprising:

[0108] [Method 2] In the welding step, after welding the first film, the second film is welded. The manufacturing method described in Method 1.

[0109] [Method 3] The method further includes a step of welding a part of the outer periphery of the first film and a part of the outer periphery of the second film to form the bag body. The method according to method 1 or 2.

[0110] [Method 4] The recess is formed closer to the insertion opening into which the spout is inserted than the center of the welded portion. A manufacturing method according to any one of methods 1 to 3.

[0111] [Method 5] the spout includes a supply port for supplying liquid to the outside, and an outlet portion that is located at the innermost side of the bag body when the spout is welded to the bag body and that outputs liquid to the supply port; The recess is formed at a position 5 mm or more away from the outlet portion. The manufacturing method described in Method 4.

[0112] [Method 6] The depth from the opening to the deepest part of the recess and the length of the short side of the opening of the second recess are each 1.4 mm to 2.0 mm. A manufacturing method according to any one of methods 1 to 5.

[0113] [Method 7] the second welding device is provided with a plurality of the protrusions, In the welding step, The recesses are formed at positions corresponding to the plurality of protrusions, A manufacturing method according to any one of methods 1 to 6.

[0114] [Method 8] The bag body is a three-sided bag. A manufacturing method according to any one of methods 1 to 7.

[0115] [Method 9] In the inserting step, The spout is inserted into the bag body having a gusset provided between the first film and the second film. A manufacturing method according to any one of methods 1 to 8.

[0116] [Method 10] The material constituting the outer layer of the first film and the outer layer of the second film is metal. 10. A manufacturing method according to any one of methods 1 to 9.

[0117] [Method 11] The material constituting the outer layer of the first film and the outer layer of the second film is aluminum. The method of manufacturing according to method 10.

[0118] [Method 12] The materials constituting the spout, the inner layer of the first film, and the inner layer of the second film are the same type of resin. 12. The method according to any one of methods 1 to 11.

[0119] [Method 13] The material constituting the spout, the inner layer of the first film, and the inner layer of the second film is polypropylene or polyethylene. The method of manufacture described in Method 12.

[0120] [Method 14] the liquid container is an ink pack that can be attached to an inkjet recording apparatus, the non-smooth portion is a convex portion that functions as a reservoir for bubbles generated inside the bag body when the liquid container is attached to an inkjet recording apparatus. 14. A method according to any one of methods 1 to 13.

[0121] [Configuration 15] A liquid container, a first film having an uneven portion; a second film welded to face the first film; a spout that is inserted into the bag body to which the first film and the second film are welded, and that discharges the liquid contained in the bag body to the outside; Equipped with A recess is formed in the welded portion between the second film and the spout. A liquid container characterized by:

[0122] [Configuration 16] the non-smooth portion is a convex portion, In a position where the device is used, the interior of the non-smooth portion is hollow. 16. The liquid container according to claim 15.

[0123] [Configuration 17] the liquid container is an ink pack that can be attached to an inkjet recording apparatus, the non-smooth portion is a convex portion that functions as a reservoir for bubbles generated inside the bag body when the liquid container is attached to an inkjet recording apparatus. 17. The liquid container according to claim 15 or 16.

[0124] [Configuration 18] The recess is formed closer to the insertion opening into which the spout is inserted than the center of the welded portion. 18. The liquid container according to any one of the fifteenth to seventeenth aspects.

[0125] [Configuration 19] the spout includes a supply port for supplying liquid to the outside, and an outlet portion that is located at the innermost side of the bag body when the spout is welded to the bag body and that outputs liquid to the supply port; The recess is formed at a position 5 mm or more away from the outlet portion. 19. The liquid container according to claim 18.

[0126] [Configuration 20] The depth from the opening to the deepest part of the recess and the length of the short side of the opening of the recess are each 1.4 mm to 2.0 mm. 20. The liquid container according to any one of the fifteenth to nineteenth aspects.

[0127] [Configuration 21] A plurality of the recesses are formed in the welding portion. The liquid container according to any one of the fifteenth to twenty ?gures.

[0128] [Configuration 22] The bag body is a three-sided bag. 22. The liquid container according to any one of the fifteenth to twenty-first aspects.

[0129] [Configuration 23] The bag body has a gusset provided between the first film and the second film. 23. The liquid container according to any one of the fifteenth to twenty-second aspects.

[0130] [Configuration 24] the outer layer of the first film and the outer layer of the second film comprise a metal; The liquid container according to any one of the fifteenth to twenty-third aspects.

[0131] [Configuration 25] the outer layer of the first film and the outer layer of the second film comprise aluminum; 25. The liquid container according to claim 24.

[0132] [Configuration 26] The materials constituting the spout, the inner layer of the first film, and the inner layer of the second film are the same type of resin. 26. The liquid container according to any one of the fifteenth to twenty-five aspects.

[0133] [Configuration 27] The material constituting the spout, the inner layer of the first film, and the inner layer of the second film is polypropylene or polyethylene. 27. The liquid container according to claim 26.

[0134] [Configuration 28] A liquid container according to any one of configurations 15 to 27; a liquid ejection head for ejecting the liquid supplied from the liquid container; A liquid ejection device comprising:

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a liquid container, comprising: an insertion step of inserting a spout into a bag formed by welding a first film having an uneven portion and a smooth second film so as to face each other, for discharging a liquid contained in the bag to the outside; a welding step of welding the first film to the spout using a first welding device and welding the second film to the spout using a second welding device; Including, In the welding step, A protrusion provided on the second welding device presses the second film and the spout, thereby forming a recess in the welded portion between the second film and the spout.

10. A method for manufacturing a liquid container comprising:

2. In the welding step, after the first film is welded, the second film is welded. The method of claim 1.

3. The method further includes a step of welding a part of the outer periphery of the first film and a part of the outer periphery of the second film to form the bag body. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The recess is formed closer to the insertion opening into which the spout is inserted than the center of the welded portion. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

5. the spout includes a supply port for supplying liquid to the outside, and an outlet portion that is located at the innermost side of the bag body when the spout is welded to the bag body and that outputs liquid to the supply port; The recess is formed at a position 5 mm or more away from the outlet portion. The method of claim 4.

6. The depth from the opening to the deepest part of the recess and the length of the short side of the opening of the recess are each 1.4 mm to 2.0 mm. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

7. the second welding device is provided with a plurality of the protrusions, In the welding step, The recesses are formed at positions corresponding to the plurality of protrusions, The method according to claim 1 or 2.

8. The bag body is a three-sided bag. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

9. In the inserting step, The spout is inserted into the bag body having a gusset provided between the first film and the second film. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

10. the material constituting the outer layer of the first film and the outer layer of the second film is metal; The method of claim 1.

11. The material constituting the outer layer of the first film and the outer layer of the second film is aluminum. The method of claim 10.

12. The materials constituting the spout, the inner layer of the first film, and the inner layer of the second film are the same type of resin. The method of claim 1.

13. The material constituting the spout, the inner layer of the first film, and the inner layer of the second film is polypropylene or polyethylene. The method of claim 12.

14. the liquid container is an ink pack that can be attached to an inkjet recording apparatus, the non-smooth portion is a convex portion that functions as a reservoir for bubbles generated inside the bag body when the liquid container is attached to an inkjet recording apparatus. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

15. A liquid container, a first film having an uneven portion; a second film welded to face the first film; a spout that is inserted into the bag body to which the first film and the second film are welded, and that discharges the liquid contained in the bag body to the outside; Equipped with A recess is formed in the welded portion between the second film and the spout. A liquid container characterized by:

16. the non-smooth portion is a convex portion, In a position where the device is used, the interior of the non-smooth portion is hollow. The liquid container according to claim 15.

17. the liquid container is an ink pack that can be attached to an inkjet recording apparatus, the non-smooth portion is a convex portion that functions as a reservoir for bubbles generated inside the bag body when the liquid container is attached to an inkjet recording apparatus. The liquid container according to claim 15 or 16.

18. The recess is formed closer to the insertion opening into which the spout is inserted than the center of the welded portion. The liquid container according to claim 15.

19. the spout includes a supply port for supplying liquid to the outside, and an outlet portion that is located at the innermost side of the bag body when the spout is welded to the bag body and that outputs liquid to the supply port; The recess is formed at a position 5 mm or more away from the outlet portion. The liquid container according to claim 18.

20. The depth from the opening to the deepest part of the recess and the length of the short side of the opening of the recess are each 1.4 mm to 2.0 mm. The liquid container according to claim 15 or 16.

21. A plurality of the recesses are formed in the welding portion. The liquid container according to claim 15 or 16.

22. The bag body is a three-sided bag. The liquid container according to claim 15 or 16.

23. The bag body has a gusset provided between the first film and the second film. The liquid container according to claim 15 or 16.

24. the outer layer of the first film and the outer layer of the second film comprise a metal; The liquid container according to claim 15.

25. the outer layer of the first film and the outer layer of the second film comprise aluminum; The liquid container according to claim 24.

26. The materials constituting the spout, the inner layer of the first film, and the inner layer of the second film are the same type of resin. The liquid container according to claim 15.

27. The material constituting the spout, the inner layer of the first film, and the inner layer of the second film is polypropylene or polyethylene. The liquid container according to claim 26.

28. A liquid container according to claim 15 or 16; a liquid ejection head for ejecting the liquid supplied from the liquid container; A liquid ejection device comprising:

Images