Recording element substrate and ink jet recording head

Abstract

To increase the substantial length of a nozzle array while maintaining a high operation frequency.SOLUTION: A recording element substrate comprises: an energy generation element array that includes a plurality of energy generation elements for each energizing a liquid in a corresponding pressure chamber; and a pad array that includes a plurality of pads for externally inputting a plurality of signals for driving the plurality of energy generation elements. An extension direction of the pad array has a component in the same direction as an extension direction of the energy generation element array.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a recording element substrate and an inkjet recording head. [Background technology]

[0002] There are various known printing methods for printers. In particular, the thermal inkjet method, which uses the ink bubbling phenomenon induced by thermal energy generated by passing electricity through a heater for a few microseconds to eject ink droplets, makes it possible to form a large number of nozzles in the head at high density. Printheads using this type of method use a printing element substrate on a silicon single crystal substrate or similar, which is integrated using a semiconductor integrated circuit process to form heaters, their protective films, driver circuits (also called "drive elements") for passing current through the heaters, and logic circuits for controlling them.

[0003] Referring to FIG. 1, reference numeral 101 denotes a substrate of a conventional recording element substrate 100. Pads 103a-h and 104a-h for electrical connection to the outside are arranged on both longitudinal ends of the substrate 101. The pads 103a-h are included in a first pad array 151, and the pads 104a-h are included in a second pad array 152. These pads are assigned signal terminals for transferring image data from the outside to the recording element substrate 100 and power supply terminals for driving. A serial signal representing image data is input from the outside to a DATA terminal 103f. The serial signal is synchronized with a CLK signal (clock signal) input to a CLK terminal 103c. The serial signal and the CLK signal are supplied to a shift register 106a via input circuits 105a and 105b. A latch signal for holding the parallelized serial signal in the latch circuits included in the shift register 106a is input to the LT terminal 104c and supplied to the latch circuits via the input circuit 105c. The signals held in the latch circuits are then supplied to AND arrays 108a and 108b, which select a desired heater. The DATA and CLK signals are also supplied to the shift register 106b. The shift register 106b parallelizes a portion of the input serial signal and outputs it to the adjacent decoder 107b. The decoder 107b decodes the input signal into multiple individual selection signals and supplies these to the AND arrays 108a and 108b. The AND array includes the same number of AND circuits as the number of heaters, and each AND circuit performs an AND operation on the signal from the shift register 106a and the signal from the decoder 107b. The driver circuits in the driver arrays 109a and 109b, which are arranged corresponding to the AND circuits whose AND operation results are true, are turned on and enabled. This causes current to flow through the heaters in the corresponding heater arrays 110a and 110b, causing ink to be ejected from the nozzles. The time for which the ink is heated is determined by the HE signal 104f. The output of the decoder 107b is enabled when the HE signal 104f is true, thereby determining the time for which the ink is heated.The head is configured so that ink is introduced from an ink supply port 111 into a pressure chamber located between the heater and the corresponding nozzle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-118512 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In a typical serial printer, the nozzle array, which is configured by arranging nozzles in a straight line, extends in the same direction as the transport direction of the recording medium. Therefore, the length of the nozzle array is equal to the length of the recording medium in the transport direction that can be recorded on in one scan. One of the performance requirements for a printer is improved printing speed, which can be achieved, for example, by increasing the number of nozzles and lengthening the nozzle array. Another example of this can be achieved by increasing the frequency at which ink droplets are ejected from the nozzles and shortening the scan time. In order to lengthen the nozzle array, it may be necessary to elongate the recording element substrate in the extension direction of the nozzle array.

[0006] The printing element substrate disclosed in Patent Document 1 functionally divides the printing elements in half in the nozzle array direction, thereby halving the length of the wiring, thereby avoiding a reduction in operating frequency due to an increase in length.

[0007] To further extend the length of the recording medium in the transport direction that can be recorded in one scan, it is necessary to, for example, connect and arrange multiple recording element substrates in the nozzle array direction, thereby lengthening the effective length of the nozzle array. Furthermore, to configure a line head that allows printing without moving the head by intersecting the extension direction of the nozzle array with the recording medium transport direction, it is also necessary to lengthen the effective length of the nozzle array in this way. In such a case, it is necessary to arrange multiple recording element substrates closely packed together in the nozzle array direction.

[0008] However, the pad arrays on the recording element substrates shown in FIG. 1 and those disclosed in Patent Document 1 extend in a direction perpendicular to the nozzle array direction. Therefore, when using such recording element substrates, the flexible substrates connected to the pad arrays extend in the nozzle array direction. Therefore, the flexible substrates connected to the pad arrays of adjacent recording element substrates interfere with each other, making it difficult to closely space multiple recording element substrates in the nozzle array direction. Therefore, it is desirable to effectively increase the length of the nozzle array by closely spaced multiple recording element substrates in the nozzle array direction while avoiding interference between the flexible substrates. With this configuration, the wiring length on each recording element substrate can be kept short, thereby maintaining a high operating frequency.

[0009] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above points, and has as its object to increase the effective length of the nozzle array while maintaining a high operating frequency. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] One embodiment of the present disclosure is a recording element substrate comprising: an energy generating element array including a plurality of energy generating elements, each of which applies energy to liquid in a corresponding pressure chamber; and a pad array including a plurality of pads for externally inputting a plurality of signals for driving the plurality of energy generating elements, wherein the extension direction of the pad array has a component in the same direction as the extension direction of the energy generating element array. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present disclosure, the effective length of the nozzle array can be increased while maintaining a high operating frequency. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view showing a conventional recording element substrate. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing a recording element substrate according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view showing a recording element substrate according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view showing a recording element substrate according to a third embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view showing an ink jet recording head according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view showing an ink jet recording head according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view showing an ink jet recording head according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a schematic plan view showing an ink jet recording head according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a schematic plan view showing an ink jet recording head according to an eighth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the disclosure according to the claims. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the disclosure, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations may be omitted.

[0014] [First embodiment] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing the recording element substrate according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Reference numeral 201 denotes the base of the recording element substrate 200. A heater array 110a and a heater array 110b are arranged on the recording element substrate 200. The heater array 110a and the heater array 110b together form one continuous heater array. The heater array extends in the X direction.

[0016] A nozzle array (not shown) is formed on an orifice plate (not shown) attached to the recording element substrate 200, corresponding to one heater array formed by combining the heater array 110a and the heater array 110b. Each nozzle included in the nozzle array is arranged at the same position in the XY plane as the corresponding heater included in the heater array 210a or the heater array 210b. Each nozzle faces the corresponding heater across a pressure chamber (not shown) in the thickness direction (Z direction) of the recording element substrate 200. Therefore, in the plane (XY plane) of the recording element substrate 200, the position where the nozzle array exists basically coincides with the combined position of the position where the heater array 210a exists and the position where the heater array 210b exists. Furthermore, the extension direction of the nozzle array coincides with the extension direction of the heater arrays 210a and 210b.

[0017] Reference numeral 202 denotes a bisecting line of the recording element substrate 200. The bisecting line does not actually exist on the substrate 201. The bisecting line 202 is a conceptual line that passes through the midpoint in the extension direction (X direction) of the heater array and extends in a direction (Y direction) perpendicular to the extension direction of the nozzle array. If the number of heaters included in heater array 210a is the same as the number of heaters included in heater array 210b, as shown in FIG. 2, the bisecting line 202 passes through the boundary point between heater array 210a and heater array 210b.

[0018] Note that the bisecting line 202 does not necessarily have to pass through the midpoint in the extension direction (X direction) of the heater array, and may pass through a point away from the midpoint. Therefore, the number of heaters included in the heater array 210a and the number of heaters included in the heater array 210b do not have to be equal.

[0019] Pads 203a-h and pads 204a-h for electrical connection to the outside are arranged on the substrate 201. The pads 203a-h are arranged on the left side of the bisecting line 202. The pads 204a-h are arranged on the right side of the bisecting line 202. The pads 203a-h constitute a first pad array 251, and the pads 204a-h constitute a second pad array 252. The extension direction of each pad array coincides with the extension direction of the heater arrays 210a and 210b. As described above, the extension direction of the heater arrays 210a and 210b coincides with the extension direction of the nozzle array. The first pad array 251 and the second pad array 252 together constitute one pad array 253 for the recording element substrate 200.

[0020] 2, the pad array 253 including the first pad array 251 and the second pad array 252 is disposed on the lower edge of the recording element substrate 200. The extending direction of this edge coincides with the extending direction (X direction) of the heater arrays 210a and 210b, but does not necessarily have to coincide strictly.

[0021] The pads 203a to 203h and the pads 204a to 204h are assigned signal terminals for transferring image data from the outside to the printing element substrate 200, power supply terminals for driving, and the like.

[0022] The recording element substrate 200 is divided into a first functional block and a second functional block by a bisecting line 202. Here, the first functional block is the functional block located to the left of the bisecting line 202, and the second functional block is the functional block located to the right of the bisecting line 202. In other words, the first functional block is the functional block located on the left end side, and the second functional block is the functional block located on the right end side.

[0023] The pads 203a-h correspond to a first functional block located to the left of the bisecting line 202. The pads 204a-h correspond to a second functional block located to the right of the bisecting line 202. A signal supplied from the main body of the printing apparatus to the pads 203a-h is supplied to a circuit included in the first functional block on the printing element substrate 200. A signal supplied from the main body of the printing apparatus to the pads 204a-h is supplied to a circuit included in the second functional block on the printing element substrate 200.

[0024] The layout of the components belonging to the first functional block and the layout of the components belonging to the second functional block are symmetrical with respect to the bisecting line 202. The components belonging to the first functional block and the components belonging to the second block may be formed by separate exposures. In this case, the bisecting line 202 serves as the joint between the exposures.

[0025] The operation of each part of the first functional block will be outlined below. A serial signal representing image data is supplied to the DATA-A terminal 203d from an external device (for example, the recording device main body). This serial signal is synchronized with the CLK signal supplied to the CLK-A terminal 203c.

[0026] The serial signal and CLK signal are supplied to a shift register (S / R) 206a via an input circuit 205a equipped with an electrostatic protection circuit, etc. The serial signal is input from the outer end of the shift register 206a and shifted toward the inner end. The outer end of the shift register 206a is the end farther from the bisecting line 202, and the inner end of the shift register 206a is the end closer to the bisecting line 202.

[0027] When the serial signals are received by a predetermined number of flip-flop circuits (not shown) in the shift register 206a, a latch signal is externally supplied to the LT-A terminal 203f. The predetermined number here is the same as the number of heaters included in the heater array 210a. The flip-flop circuits are, for example, D-type flip-flop circuits.

[0028] The serial signals stored in a predetermined number of flip-flop circuits in the shift register 206a are taken in and held by a predetermined number of latch circuits (not shown) in the shift register 206a by a latch signal.

[0029] A portion of the serial signal held in the latch circuit is supplied to an AND array (also called a "logic circuit array") 208a. Another portion of the serial signal held in the latch circuit is supplied to a decoder 207a. The decoder 207a expands the other portion of the supplied serial signal into a plurality of individual selection signals and supplies the plurality of individual selection signals to the AND array 208a.

[0030] The AND array 208a is a circuit in which AND circuits (also called "logic circuits") in the same number as the heaters included in the heater array 210a are arranged in an array. Each AND circuit performs an AND operation on the signal supplied from the latch circuit of the shift register 206a and the individual selection signal supplied from the decoder 207a. If the result of the AND operation is true, the driver circuit of the driver array (also called "drive element array") 109a corresponding to the AND circuit is selected.

[0031] The period during which the ink is heated is supplied as an HE signal from the outside to the HE-A terminal 203g, and is supplied to the AND array 208a via the input circuit 205c.

[0032] The AND array 208a also includes an AND circuit for performing an AND operation between the result of the AND operation described above and the HE signal. While the result of the AND operation between the result of the AND operation described above and the HE signal is true, the selected driver circuit is turned on. This causes current to flow through the corresponding heater in the heater array 210a. As a result, ink in the pressure chamber (not shown) corresponding to the corresponding heater is heated, bubbles are formed, and the ink is ejected from the corresponding nozzle.

[0033] The operation of each unit belonging to the first functional block has been outlined above, but the operation of each unit belonging to the second functional block is similar, so a repeated explanation will be omitted. The shift direction of the serial signal in the shift register 206a is from left to right in FIG. 2, while the shift direction of the serial signal in the shift register 206b is the opposite. The serial signal is supplied in one direction to the head control IC (not shown) that supplies the serial signal to the recording element substrate 200. Therefore, the head control IC inverts the data order in either the serial signal supplied to the DATA-A terminal 203d or the serial signal supplied to the DATA-B terminal 204d before supplying it.

[0034] Ink is supplied to each pressure chamber via ink supply ports 211 formed in the base 201 of the recording element substrate 200. The shape, number, position, etc. of the ink supply ports 211 do not have to be as shown in the figure.

[0035] [Second embodiment] FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view showing a recording element substrate according to the second embodiment.

[0036] In the recording element substrate 300 according to this embodiment, a plurality of heater arrays are arranged on a base 301 along a direction (Y direction) intersecting the extension direction (X direction) of each heater array. In the example shown in Fig. 3, three heater arrays 310, 316, and 322 are arranged on the recording element substrate 300. Note that the number of heater arrays is not limited to three, and may be two or four or more.

[0037] The heater array 310 is accompanied by a nozzle array (not shown), an ink supply port 311, a driver array 309, an AND array 308, a shift register 306, and a decoder 307. Similarly, the heater array 316 is accompanied by a nozzle array (not shown), an ink supply port 317, a driver array 315, an AND array 314, a shift register 312, and a decoder 213. The heater array 322 is accompanied by a nozzle array (not shown), an ink supply port 323, a driver array 32109, an AND array 320, a shift register 318, and a decoder 219.

[0038] The heater array 310, associated nozzle array (not shown), ink supply port 311, driver array 309, AND array 308, shift register 306, and decoder 307 are separated into two sets. The first set includes heater array 310a, associated nozzle array (not shown), ink supply port 311a, driver array 309a, AND array 308a, shift register 306a, and decoder 307a. The second set includes heater array 310b, associated nozzle array (not shown), ink supply port 311b, driver array 309b, AND array 308b, shift register 306b, and decoder 307b.

[0039] The heater array 316, associated nozzle array (not shown), ink supply port 317, driver array 315, AND array 314, shift register 312, and decoder 313 are also separated into two sets. The first set includes heater array 316a, associated nozzle array (not shown), ink supply port 317a, driver array 315a, AND array 314a, shift register 312a, and decoder 313a. The second set includes heater array 316b, associated nozzle array (not shown), ink supply port 317b, driver array 315b, AND array 314b, shift register 312b, and decoder 313b.

[0040] The heater array 322, associated nozzle array (not shown), ink supply port 323, driver array 321, AND array 320, shift register 318, and decoder 319 are also separated into two sets. The first set includes heater array 322a, associated nozzle array (not shown), ink supply port 323a, driver array 321a, AND array 320a, shift register 318a, and decoder 319a. The second set includes heater array 322b, associated nozzle array (not shown), ink supply port 323b, driver array 321b, AND array 320b, shift register 318b, and decoder 319b.

[0041] Reference numeral 302 denotes a bisecting line of the base 301 of the recording element substrate 300, but does not actually exist on the base 301. This bisecting line 302 passes through the midpoint of each nozzle array in the extension direction. This bisecting line 302 also passes through the boundary between the heater arrays 310a and 310b, the boundary between the heater arrays 216a and 216b, and the boundary between the heater arrays 222a and 222b. When the three heater arrays 310, 216, and 222 are arranged in a staggered pattern as in this embodiment, the bisecting line 302 has a crank shape.

[0042] Note that the bisecting line 302 does not necessarily have to pass through the midpoint of each heater array in the extension direction (X direction), and may pass through a point away from the midpoint. Therefore, the number of heaters included in heater array 310a and the number of heaters included in heater array 310b do not have to be equal. The same applies to the other heater arrays.

[0043] Pads 303a-h and pads 304a-h for electrical connection to the outside are arranged on the substrate 301. The pads 303a-h are arranged on the left side of the bisecting line 302. The pads 304a-h are arranged on the right side of the bisecting line 302. The pads 303a-h constitute a first pad array 351, and the pads 304a-h constitute a second pad array 352. The extension direction of both pad arrays coincides with the extension direction of the heater arrays 210a and 210b. The first pad array 351 and the second pad array 352 together constitute one pad array 353 for the recording element substrate 300.

[0044] 3, the pad array 353 including the first pad array 351 and the second pad array 352 is disposed on the lower edge of the recording element substrate 300. The extending direction of this edge coincides with the extending direction (X direction) of the heater arrays 310a, 310b and other heater arrays, but does not necessarily have to coincide strictly. Here, the heater arrays 310a, 310b and other heater arrays refer to the heater arrays 310a, 310b, 316a, 316b, 322a, and 322b.

[0045] The pads 303a to 303h and the pads 304a to 304h are assigned signal terminals for transferring image data from the outside to the printing element substrate 300, power supply terminals for driving, and the like.

[0046] The recording element substrate 300 is divided into a first functional block and a second functional block by a bisecting line 302. Here, the first functional block is the functional block located to the left of the bisecting line 302, and the second functional block is the functional block located to the right of the bisecting line 302.

[0047] The pads 303a-h correspond to a first functional block located to the left of the bisecting line 302. The pads 304a-h correspond to a second functional block located to the right of the bisecting line 302. A signal supplied from the main body of the printing apparatus to the pads 303a-h is supplied to a circuit included in the first functional block on the printing element substrate 300. A signal supplied from the main body of the printing apparatus to the pads 304a-h is supplied to a circuit included in the second functional block on the printing element substrate 300.

[0048] Here, the first functional block includes a heater array 310a, an associated nozzle array (not shown), an ink supply port 311a, a driver array 309a, an AND array 308a, a shift register 306a, and a decoder 307a. The first functional block further includes a heater array 316a, an associated nozzle array (not shown), an ink supply port 317a, a driver array 315a, an AND array 314a, a shift register 312a, and a decoder 313a. The first functional block further includes a heater array 322a, an associated nozzle array (not shown), an ink supply port 323a, a driver array 321a, an AND array 320a, a shift register 318a, and a decoder 319a.

[0049] The second functional block also includes a heater array 310b, an associated nozzle array (not shown), an ink supply port 311b, a driver array 309b, an AND array 308b, a shift register 306b, and a decoder 307b. The second functional block further includes a heater array 316b, an associated nozzle array (not shown), an ink supply port 317b, a driver array 315b, an AND array 314b, a shift register 312b, and a decoder 313b. The second functional block further includes a heater array 322b, an associated nozzle array (not shown), an ink supply port 323b, a driver array 321b, an AND array 320b, a shift register 318b, and a decoder 319b.

[0050] The operation of the first functional block will be outlined below. A serial signal representing image data is input from the outside to the DATA-A terminal 303d of the recording element substrate 300. The serial signal is synchronized with the CLK signal input to the CLK-A terminal 303c.

[0051] The serial signal and CLK signal are supplied to shift registers (S / R) 306a, 312a, and 318a via an input circuit 305a equipped with an electrostatic protection circuit, etc. The serial signal is input from the outer ends of the shift registers 306a, 312a, and 318a and shifted toward the inner ends. The outer ends of the shift registers 306a, 312a, and 318a are the ends farther from the bisecting line 302, and the inner ends of the shift registers 306a, 312a, and 318a are the ends closer to the bisecting line 302.

[0052] The configurations and operations of the shift register 306a, decoder 307a, AND array 308a, driver array 309a, and heater array 310a are the same as those of the corresponding parts in the first embodiment. That is, the configurations and operations of the shift register 206a, decoder 207a, AND array 208a, driver array 209a, and heater array 210a are the same as those of the corresponding parts in the first embodiment. Therefore, redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0053] The configurations and operations of the shift register 312a, decoder 313a, AND array 314a, driver array 315a, and heater array 316a are also similar to those of the first embodiment. That is, the configurations and operations of the shift register 206a, decoder 207a, AND array 208a, driver array 209a, and heater array 210a are similar to those of the first embodiment. Therefore, redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0054] The configurations and operations of the shift register 318a, decoder 319a, AND array 320a, driver array 321a, and heater array 322a are also similar to those of the first embodiment. That is, the configurations and operations of the shift register 206a, decoder 207a, AND array 208a, driver array 209a, and heater array 210a are similar to those of the first embodiment. Therefore, redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0055] The configuration and operation of the second functional block are similar to those of the first functional block, and therefore a duplicated description will be omitted.

[0056] The shift direction of the serial signal in the shift register 306a is from left to right in FIG. 3, but the shift direction of the serial signal in the shift register 306b is the opposite. A similar relationship exists between the shift registers 312a and 312b. A similar relationship exists between the shift registers 318a and 318b. Here, the serial signal is supplied in one direction to the head control IC (not shown) that supplies the serial signal to the recording element substrate 300. Therefore, the head control IC inverts the data order in one of the serial signal supplied to the DATA-A terminal 303d and the serial signal supplied to the DATA-B terminal 304d before supplying it.

[0057] Ink is supplied to each pressure chamber via ink supply ports 311, 317, and 323 formed in the base 201 of the recording element substrate 200. The shape, number, position, etc. of the ink supply ports 311, 317, and 323 do not have to be as shown in the figure.

[0058] [Third embodiment] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view showing a recording element substrate according to the third embodiment.

[0059] The planar shape of the recording element substrate 400 according to this embodiment is a parallelogram. The heater arrays 310, 316, and 322 included in the multiple sets are arranged in positions that move sequentially in the heater array extension direction (X direction) as they progress in a direction intersecting the heater array extension direction (Y direction). The parallelogram has upper and lower sides extending in the same direction as the heater array extension direction, as well as two oblique sides aligned with the positions where the multiple heater arrays are arranged. The driver arrays, AND arrays, and shift registers (S / R) associated with these heater arrays are also arranged in positions that move sequentially in the heater array extension direction as they progress in a direction intersecting the heater array extension direction. The other parts are the same as those in the second embodiment, so repeated explanations will be omitted.

[0060] [Fourth embodiment] 5 is a schematic plan view showing an inkjet printhead according to the fourth embodiment. Two print element substrates 300#1 and 300#2 according to the second embodiment are arranged on a plate 500 side by side in a direction (Y direction) perpendicular to the extension direction (X direction) of the heater arrays 210#1, 216#1, 222#1, 210#2, 216#2, and 222#2. The print element substrates 300#1 and 300#2 are arranged so that the X-direction range over which the heater arrays 210#1, 216#1, and 222#1 extend coincides with the X-direction range over which the heater arrays 210#2, 216#2, and 222#2 extend. In other words, the print element substrates 300#1 and 300#2 are arranged so that their positions in the X direction are the same. Therefore, the extension ranges of the six heater arrays 210#1, 216#1, 222#1, 210#2, 216#2, and 222#2 in the extension direction (X direction) can be made uniform.

[0061] The orientation of the substrate 300#1 is adjusted so that the pad array 353#1 on the substrate 300#1 is located on the edge portion on the opposite side of the substrate 300#2. This prevents a TAB (Tape Automated Bonding) tape (not shown) connected to the pad array 353#1 and extending upward (in the +Y direction) from the pad array 353#1 from interfering with the substrate 300#2.

[0062] Similarly, the orientation of the substrate 300#2 is adjusted so that the pad array 353#2 on the substrate 300#2 is located on the edge portion on the opposite side of the substrate facing the substrate 300#1. This prevents the TAB tape (not shown) connected to the pad array 353#2 and extending downward (in the -Y direction) from the pad array 353#2 from interfering with the substrate 300#1.

[0063] Therefore, the recording element substrate 300#1 and the recording element substrate 300#2 can be arranged on the plate 500 so as to be adjacent to each other in the direction (Y direction) perpendicular to the direction in which the heater array extends (X direction).

[0064] It should be noted that the recording element substrate 200 according to the first embodiment or the recording element substrate 400 according to the third embodiment may be disposed on the plate 500 instead of the recording element substrate 300 according to the second embodiment.

[0065] [Fifth embodiment] FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view showing an inkjet printhead according to the fifth embodiment. Four print element substrates 300#11, 300#12, 300#13, and 300#14 according to the second embodiment are arranged on a plate 600. The four print element substrates 300#11, 300#12, 300#13, and 300#14 are arranged to form two rows of a staggered check pattern along the extension direction (X direction) of the heater array. The heater arrays referred to here are heater arrays 210#n, 216#n, and 222#n provided on print element substrate 300#n (where n is 11 to 14). The total number of heater arrays is 12.

[0066] The recording element substrate 300#11 and the recording element substrate 300#12 are disposed adjacent to each other in the direction (Y direction) perpendicular to the extension direction (X direction) of the heater arrays. The recording element substrate 300#11 and the recording element substrate 300#12 are disposed so that the positions of one end of the three heater arrays on the former and the positions of one end of the three heater arrays on the latter coincide with each other in the extension direction of the heater arrays. The three heater arrays on the former are heater arrays 210#11, 216#11, and 222#11. The three heater arrays on the latter are heater arrays 210#12, 216#12, and 222#12.

[0067] The recording element substrate 300#12 and the recording element substrate 300#13 are also arranged so as to satisfy a similar positional relationship.

[0068] The recording element substrate 300#13 and the recording element substrate 300#14 are also arranged so as to satisfy a similar positional relationship.

[0069] Therefore, the recording width can be four times longer than when only one recording element substrate 300 is arranged on the plate 600. The nozzle arrays are arranged at the same positions as the heater arrays in the XY plane. Therefore, the effective nozzle array length can be four times longer than when only one recording element substrate 300 is arranged on the plate 600.

[0070] Furthermore, when using the nozzle array thus formed, which is four times longer as a reference, the heater array, driver array, AND array, and shift register (S / R) can be divided into eight in the extension direction of the nozzle array, thereby making it possible to maintain a high operating frequency.

[0071] Furthermore, the pad array 353#n provided on the substrate 300#n (where n is 11 to 14) is arranged on the lower edge of the substrate 300#n in the figure, but no other substrates are arranged in a position opposite this edge. Therefore, the TAB tape (not shown) connected to the pad array 353#n and extending downward (in the -Y direction) from the pad array 353#n can be prevented from interfering with other substrates. Furthermore, the four TAB tapes can be commonly connected to a single head control IC at the end of their common extension direction.

[0072] It should be noted that the recording element substrate 200 according to the first embodiment or the recording element substrate 400 according to the third embodiment may be disposed on the plate 500 instead of the recording element substrate 300 according to the second embodiment.

[0073] Furthermore, the recording element substrates 300#n (where n is 11 to 14) may be arranged so that there are overlapping portions near the ends of the heater arrays provided on the adjacent recording element substrates.

[0074] Furthermore, the number of recording element substrates 300 on the plate and the pattern of the staggered arrangement are not limited to the above. For example, a staggered arrangement of three or more rows is also possible.

[0075] [Sixth embodiment] FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view showing an inkjet printhead according to the sixth embodiment. Four print element substrates 300#21, 300#22, 300#23, and 300#24 according to the second embodiment are arranged on a plate 700. The four print element substrates 300#21, 300#22, 300#23, and 300#24 are arranged to form two rows of a houndstooth check along the extension direction (X direction) of the heater array. The heater arrays referred to here are heater arrays 210#n, 216#n, and 222#n provided on print element substrate 300#n (where n is 21 to 24). The total number of heater arrays is 12.

[0076] The recording element substrate 300#21 and the recording element substrate 300#22 are disposed adjacent to each other in the direction (Y direction) perpendicular to the extension direction (X direction) of the heater arrays. The recording element substrates 300#21 and 300#22 are disposed so that the positions of one end of the three heater arrays on the former and the positions of one end of the three heater arrays on the latter coincide with each other in the extension direction of the heater arrays. The three heater arrays on the former are heater arrays 210#21, 216#21, and 222#21. The three heater arrays on the latter are heater arrays 210#22, 216#22, and 222#22.

[0077] The recording element substrate 300#22 and the recording element substrate 300#23 are also arranged so as to satisfy a similar positional relationship.

[0078] The recording element substrate 300#23 and the recording element substrate 300#24 are also arranged so as to satisfy a similar positional relationship.

[0079] Therefore, the recording width can be four times longer than when only one recording element substrate 300 is arranged on the plate 700. The nozzle arrays are arranged at the same positions as the heater arrays in the XY plane. Therefore, the effective nozzle array length can be four times longer than when only one recording element substrate 300 is arranged on the plate 700.

[0080] Furthermore, when using the nozzle array thus formed, which is four times longer as a reference, the heater array, driver array, AND array, and shift register (S / R) can be divided into eight in the extension direction of the nozzle array, thereby making it possible to maintain a high operating frequency.

[0081] This embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in that the pad arrays 353#n of all the recording element substrates 300#n (where n is 21 to 24) are provided on the peripheral portion opposite the side facing the adjacent recording element substrate. The configuration of this embodiment can be obtained by rotating the recording element substrates 300#11 and 300#13 in the fifth embodiment by 180 degrees in the XY plane.

[0082] The pad array 353#n provided on the substrate 300#n (where n is 21 or 23) is arranged on the upper edge of the substrate 300#n in the figure, but no other substrates are arranged in a position opposite this edge. Therefore, the TAB tape (not shown) connected to the pad array 353#n and extending upward (in the +Y direction) from the pad array 353#n can be prevented from interfering with other substrates. Furthermore, the two TAB tapes can be commonly connected to a single head control IC at the end of their common extension direction.

[0083] Similarly, the pad array 353#n on the substrate 300#n (where n is 22 or 24) is located on the lower edge of the substrate 300#n in the figure, but no other substrates are located opposite this edge. Therefore, the TAB tape (not shown) connected to the pad array 353#n and extending downward (in the -Y direction) from the pad array 353#n is prevented from interfering with other substrates. Furthermore, the two TAB tapes can be commonly connected to a single head control IC at the end of their common extension direction.

[0084] It should be noted that the recording element substrate 200 according to the first embodiment or the recording element substrate 400 according to the third embodiment may be disposed on the plate 500 instead of the recording element substrate 300 according to the second embodiment.

[0085] Furthermore, the recording element substrates 300#n (where n is 11 to 14) may be arranged so that there are overlapping portions near the ends of the heater arrays provided on the adjacent recording element substrates.

[0086] Furthermore, the number of recording element substrates 300 on the plate and the pattern of the staggered arrangement are not limited to the above. For example, a staggered arrangement of three or more rows is also possible.

[0087] [Seventh embodiment] FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view showing an inkjet printhead according to the seventh embodiment. Four printing element substrates 400#31, 400#32, 400#33, and 400#34 according to the third embodiment are arranged on a plate 800. The four printing element substrates 400#31, 400#32, 400#33, and 400#34 are arranged as follows: In other words, the sides (i.e., oblique sides) of a pair of adjacent printing element substrates 400#n and 400#(n+1) (n = 31 to 33) that are not perpendicular to the heater array extension direction (X direction) in the planar direction (XY direction) are adjacent to each other. Furthermore, the acute corners of each printing element substrate 400#n (n = 31 to 34) are arranged so as to protrude. In the example of FIG. 8, the upper right corner and lower left corner of each printing element substrate 400#n (n = 31 to 34) are arranged so as to protrude. 8, when viewed from another perspective, the pair of adjacent recording element substrates 400#n and 400#(n+1) are arranged as follows: That is, they are arranged so as to partially overlap in the extension direction of the heater array (X direction). Also, they are arranged so as to partially overlap in the direction intersecting the extension direction of the heater array (Y direction). Nevertheless, because the recording element substrate 400 has a parallelogram planar shape, the pair of adjacent recording element substrates 400#n and 400#(n+1) do not overlap in the XY plane.

[0088] By doing so, when focusing on a pair of adjacent printing element substrates 400#n and 400#(n+1) (n=31 to 33), the following configuration can be achieved. That is, the end of the heater array 210#n of the printing element substrate 400#n and the end of the heater array 210#(n+1) of the printing element substrate 400#(n+1) can be made to coincide with or overlap in the extension direction of the heater arrays. Similarly, the end of the heater array 216#n of the printing element substrate 400#n and the end of the heater array 216#(n+1) of the printing element substrate 400#(n+1) can be made to coincide with or overlap in the extension direction of the heater arrays. Furthermore, the end of the heater array 222#n of the recording element substrate 400#n and the end of the heater array 222#(n+1) of the recording element substrate 400#(n+1) can be made to coincide or overlap in the extension direction of the heater arrays.

[0089] Therefore, the recording width can be four times longer than when only one recording element substrate 400 is arranged on the plate 600. The nozzle arrays are arranged at the same positions as the heater arrays in the XY plane. Therefore, the effective nozzle array length can be four times longer than when only one recording element substrate 400 is arranged on the plate 600.

[0090] Furthermore, when using the nozzle array thus formed, which is four times longer as a reference, the heater array, driver array, AND array, and shift register (S / R) can be divided into eight in the extension direction of the nozzle array, thereby making it possible to maintain a high operating frequency.

[0091] Furthermore, the length of the area occupied by each recording element substrate 400#n (n=31 to 34) in the direction (Y direction) perpendicular to the extension direction (X direction) of the heater array is less than twice the length of the area occupied by one recording element substrate 400. In the example of FIG. 8, it is approximately 1.5 times. In contrast, in the fifth and sixth embodiments, it is twice as long. Therefore, the size in the Y direction of the plate 800 according to this embodiment can be made smaller than the plates 600 and 700 according to the fifth and sixth embodiments. Therefore, according to the seventh embodiment, the inkjet recording head can be made smaller than the fifth and sixth embodiments.

[0092] Furthermore, the pad array 353#n provided on the substrate 400#n (where n is 31 to 34) is arranged on the lower edge of the substrate 400#n in the figure, but no other substrates are arranged in a position opposite this edge. Therefore, the TAB tape (not shown) connected to the pad array 353#n and extending downward (in the -Y direction) from the pad array 353#n can be prevented from interfering with other substrates. Furthermore, the four TAB tapes can be commonly connected to a single head control IC at the end of their common extension direction.

[0093] The number of recording element substrates 300 on the plate and the arrangement pattern are not limited to this.

[0094] [Eighth embodiment] FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view showing an inkjet printhead according to the eighth embodiment. Four printing element substrates 400#41, 400#42, 400#43, and 400#44 according to the third embodiment are arranged on a plate 900. The four printing element substrates 400#41, 400#42, 400#43, and 400#44 are arranged as follows: In other words, the sides (i.e., oblique sides) of a pair of adjacent printing element substrates 400#n and 400#(n+1) (n = 41 to 43) that are not perpendicular to the extension direction of the heater array (X direction) in the planar direction (XY direction) are adjacent to each other. Furthermore, the positions in the direction (Y direction) perpendicular to the extension direction of the heater array (X direction) are the same among the printing element substrates 400#n (n = 41 to 44). Furthermore, the edges where the pad arrays 353#n are located are alternately positioned on the +Y direction edge or the -Y direction edge for each recording element substrate. A pair of adjacent recording element substrates 400 are rotated 180 degrees relative to one another in the XY plane.

[0095] By doing so, when focusing on a pair of adjacent printing element substrates 400#n and 400#(n+1) (n=41, 43), the following configuration can be achieved. That is, the end of the heater array 210#n of the printing element substrate 400#n and the end of the heater array 210#(n+1) of the printing element substrate 400#(n+1) can be made to coincide with or overlap in the extension direction of the heater arrays. Similarly, the end of the heater array 216#n of the printing element substrate 400#n and the end of the heater array 216#(n+1) of the printing element substrate 400#(n+1) can be made to coincide with or overlap in the extension direction of the heater arrays. Furthermore, the end of the heater array 222#n of the recording element substrate 400#n and the end of the heater array 222#(n+1) of the recording element substrate 400#(n+1) can be made to coincide or overlap in the extension direction of the heater arrays.

[0096] When attention is paid to a pair of adjacent recording element substrates 400#42 and 400#42, the ends of the substrates cannot be aligned or overlapped in this manner.

[0097] Therefore, excluding the discontinuity between the recording element substrate 400#42 and the recording element substrate 400#42, the recording width can be four times longer than when only one recording element substrate 400 is arranged on the plate 600. Furthermore, excluding the discontinuity between the recording element substrate 400#42 and the recording element substrate 400#42, the recording width can be twice as long as when only one recording element substrate 400 is arranged on the plate 600.

[0098] The nozzle arrays are arranged at the same positions as the heater arrays in the XY plane. Therefore, compared to when only one recording element substrate 400 is arranged on the plate 600, two nozzle arrays can be provided, each with a substantially doubled length.

[0099] Furthermore, when viewed from the perspective of the nozzle array thus formed, which is twice as long, the heater array, driver array, AND array, and shift register (S / R) can be divided into four in the extension direction of the nozzle array, thereby enabling a high operating frequency to be maintained.

[0100] Furthermore, the length of the area occupied by each recording element substrate 400#n (n=41 to 44) in the direction (Y direction) perpendicular to the extension direction (X direction) of the heater array is the same as the length of the area occupied by one recording element substrate 400. In contrast, in the fifth and sixth embodiments, it is twice as long, and in the seventh embodiment, it is approximately 1.5 times as long. Therefore, the size in the Y direction of the plate 900 according to this embodiment can be made smaller than the plates 600, 700, and 800 according to the fifth to seventh embodiments. Therefore, according to the eighth embodiment, the inkjet recording head can be made smaller than the fifth to seventh embodiments.

[0101] Furthermore, the pad array 353#n provided on the substrate 400#n (where n is 41 to 44) is arranged on the lower edge of the substrate 400#n in the figure, but no other substrates are arranged in a position opposite this edge. Therefore, the TAB tape (not shown) connected to the pad array 353#n and extending downward (in the -Y direction) from the pad array 353#n can be prevented from interfering with other substrates. Furthermore, the four TAB tapes can be commonly connected to a single head control IC at the end of their common extension direction.

[0102] However, the number of recording element substrates 300 on the plate is not limited to this.

[0103] [Other embodiments] In the arrangement shown in FIG. 8, every other recording element substrate may be rotated by 180 degrees as shown in FIG.

[0104] In the arrangement shown in Figure 9, the recording element substrates 400#43 and 400#44 may be moved downward and leftward so that the heater arrays on the recording element substrate 400#42 are continuous in the extension direction of the heater arrays. The continuous heater arrays referred to here are the heater arrays 210#42 and 210#43. The continuous heater arrays referred to here further include the heater arrays 216#42 and 216#43. The continuous heater arrays referred to here further include the heater arrays 222#42 and 222#43.

[0105] The recording element substrate 300 does not necessarily have to have a rectangular planar shape. In other words, the recording element substrate 300 may have another planar shape as long as the positional relationship between the heater array and the pad array can be configured on the plate as shown in Figures 5 to 7.

[0106] The recording element substrate 400 does not necessarily have to have a parallelogram planar shape. In other words, the recording element substrate 400 may have another planar shape as long as the positional relationship between the heater array and the pad array as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 can be configured on the plate. For example, the recording element substrate 400 may have an uneven edge portion so that the recording element substrate is arranged on the plate so that the positional relationship between the heater array and the pad array as shown in FIG. 8 is maintained between the recording element substrates. Adjacent recording element substrates may be arranged on the plate like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, with the concave and convex portions matching each other. Furthermore, while the basic parallelogram shape is maintained, convex or concave portions for alignment may be added. Furthermore, the acute corners of the recording element substrate 400 may be changed to rounded corners.

[0107] In the above embodiment, a heater array configured by arranging a plurality of heaters in the extension direction is used as the energy generating element array configured by arranging a plurality of energy generating elements in the extension direction. However, this is not limited to this, and a piezoelectric element array configured by arranging a plurality of piezoelectric elements in the extension direction may also be used as the energy generating element array.

[0108] In the energy-generating element array, the plurality of energy-generating elements may be arranged in a single row along the extension direction, or in multiple rows (for example, two rows).Furthermore, in the energy-generating element array, the plurality of energy-generating elements may be arranged in, for example, two rows in a staggered check pattern along the extension direction.

[0109] In the above embodiment, the extension direction of the pad array coincides with the extension direction of the heater array. However, this is not limited to this, and the extension direction of the pad array may be inclined with respect to the extension direction of the heater array. In other words, the extension direction of the pad array only needs to have a component in the same direction as the extension direction of the heater array, and may also have a component in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the heater array in the plane of the recording element substrate. For example, the pad array provided on the recording element substrate 401 shown in FIG. 4 may have an angle such that the extension direction of the TAB tape connected to it is parallel to the oblique side of the recording element substrate 401.

[0110] In the above embodiment, a configuration of the recording element substrate has been described in which a serial signal is input from the outer end of the shift register and shifted toward the inner end. However, this is not limited thereto, and the recording element substrate may have a configuration in which a serial signal is input from the inner end of the shift register and shifted toward the outer end for one or both of the two shift registers. Note that the order of data in the serial signal input from outside may be adjusted depending on the configuration.

[0111] In the above embodiment, the inkjet print head is described as ejecting ink, but the inkjet print head may also eject liquid other than ink.

[0112] <Technical Features of the Present Disclosure> The present disclosure includes the following configurations.

[0113] [Configuration 1] an energy-generating element array including a plurality of energy-generating elements, each of which applies energy to the liquid in a corresponding pressure chamber; a pad array including a plurality of pads for inputting a plurality of signals from the outside to drive the plurality of energy generating elements; Equipped with the extending direction of the pad array has a component in the same direction as the extending direction of the energy generating element array; Recording element board.

[0114] [Configuration 2] The extending direction of the pad array is the same as the extending direction of the energy generating element array. The recording element substrate according to configuration 1.

[0115] [Configuration 3] the pad array is disposed on a peripheral portion of the recording element substrate, the peripheral portion extending in the extending direction of the energy generating element array; 3. The recording element substrate according to claim 1 or 2.

[0116] [Configuration 4] a drive element array including a plurality of drive elements, each of which drives a corresponding one of the energy-generating elements; a logic circuit array including a plurality of logic circuits, each of which enables a corresponding one of the drive elements based at least on data input from a shift register; a shift register that shifts and holds an externally input serial signal used to drive the plurality of energy generating elements based on an externally input clock signal; Further provided with the plurality of pads include at least a pad for externally inputting the serial signal and a pad for externally inputting the clock signal; an extension direction of the drive element array, an extension direction of the logic circuit array, and an extension direction of the shift register have a component in the same direction as the extension direction of the energy generating element array; 4. The recording element substrate according to any one of configurations 1 to 3.

[0117] [Configuration 5] an extension direction of the drive element array, an extension direction of the logic circuit array, and an extension direction of the shift register are the same as an extension direction of the energy generating element array; 5. The recording element substrate according to configuration 4.

[0118] [Configuration 6] the pad array is arranged at a position different from the energy generating element array, the drive element array, the logic circuit array, and the shift register in a direction intersecting with the extending direction of the energy generating element array; 6. The recording element substrate according to configuration 4 or 5.

[0119] [Configuration 7] The sets including the energy generating element array, the driving element array, the logic circuit array, the shift register, and the pad array are divided into a first set including the energy generating element array, the driving element array, the logic circuit array, the shift register, and the pad array, which are arranged on a first end side along the extension direction of the energy generating element array, and a second set including the energy generating element array, the driving element array, the logic circuit array, the shift register, and the pad array, which are arranged on a second end side along the extension direction of the energy generating element array. 7. The recording element substrate according to any one of configurations 4 to 6.

[0120] [Configuration 8] the energy generating element array, the drive element array, and the logic circuit array belonging to the first set operate based on data output from the shift register belonging to the first set; the energy generating element array, the drive element array, and the logic circuit array belonging to the second set operate based on data output from the shift register belonging to the second set; 8. The recording element substrate according to claim 7.

[0121] [Configuration 9] the shift register included in the first set receives a first serial signal from a first end in the extension direction of the shift register included in the first set, and shifts the first serial signal toward a second end in the extension direction of the shift register included in the first set; The recording element substrate according to configuration 7 or 8.

[0122] [Configuration 10] the shift register included in the second set receives a second serial signal from a third end in the extension direction of the shift register included in the second set, and shifts the second serial signal toward a fourth end in the extension direction of the shift register included in the second set; 10. The recording element substrate according to any one of configurations 7 to 9.

[0123] [Configuration 11] a plurality of sets of the energy generating element array, the drive element array, the logic circuit array, and the shift register, the plurality of sets being arranged in a direction intersecting with the extension direction of the energy generating element array; 11. The recording element substrate according to any one of configurations 4 to 10.

[0124] [Configuration 12] the energy generating element arrays included in the plurality of sets are arranged at a common position in an extension direction of the energy generating element arrays, 12. The recording element substrate according to claim 11.

[0125] [Configuration 13] the energy generating element arrays included in the plurality of sets are arranged at positions that move sequentially in the extension direction of the energy generating element array as they proceed in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the energy generating element array, 12. The recording element substrate according to claim 11.

[0126] [Configuration 14] Plate and a recording element substrate according to any one of one or more of configurations 1 to 13, disposed on the plate; An inkjet recording head comprising:

[0127] [Configuration 15] Plate and a plurality of recording element substrates according to any one of configurations 1 to 13, disposed on the plate; Equipped with The plurality of recording element substrates are arranged in a direction intersecting with the extending direction of the energy generating element array. Inkjet recording head.

[0128] [Configuration 16] Plate and a plurality of recording element substrates according to Configuration 3 arranged on the plate; Equipped with the plurality of recording element substrates are arranged in a staggered pattern so as to form two rows in a direction intersecting the extending direction, a side of each of the recording element substrates on which the peripheral portion on which the pad array is arranged exists is common to the plurality of recording element substrates; Inkjet recording head.

[0129] [Configuration 17] Plate and a plurality of recording element substrates according to Configuration 3 arranged on the plate; Equipped with the plurality of recording element substrates are arranged in a staggered pattern so as to form two rows in a direction intersecting the extending direction, a side of the plurality of recording element substrates belonging to one row where the edge portion on which the pad array is arranged is located is opposite to a side adjacent to the other row; a side of the plurality of recording element substrates belonging to the other row where the edge portion on which the pad array is arranged is located is opposite to a side adjacent to the one row; Inkjet recording head.

[0130] [Configuration 18] Plate and A plurality of recording element substrates according to configuration 12 arranged on the plate; Equipped with The plurality of recording element substrates are arranged in a staggered pattern, At least some of the pairs of adjacent recording element substrates are arranged so that the energy generating element arrays of each set provided on one of the recording element substrates and the energy generating element arrays of each set provided on the other of the recording element substrates are continuous with each other or have overlapping portions in the extending direction of the energy generating element arrays. Inkjet recording head.

[0131] [Configuration 19] Plate and A plurality of recording element substrates according to configuration 13 arranged on the plate; Equipped with the plurality of recording element substrates are arranged consecutively in the extending direction of the energy generating element array, At least some of the pairs of adjacent recording element substrates are arranged so that the energy generating element arrays of each set provided on one of the recording element substrates and the energy generating element arrays of each set provided on the other of the recording element substrates are continuous with each other or have overlapping portions in the extending direction of the energy generating element arrays. Inkjet recording head.

[0132] [Configuration 20] at least some of the pairs of adjacent recording element substrates are arranged so that their extension ranges partially overlap in the extension direction of the energy generating element array and also partially overlap in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the energy generating element array; 20. The ink jet recording head according to claim 19.

[0133] [Configuration 21] at least a part of the pair of adjacent recording element substrates have planar shapes that do not interfere with each other in a plane extending in an extension direction of the energy generating element array and in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the energy generating element array; 21. The ink jet recording head according to configuration 20.

[0134] [Configuration 22] The planar shape is a parallelogram having upper and lower sides extending in the same direction as the extension direction of the energy generating element array, and two oblique sides aligned with the positions where the energy generating elements included in the plurality of sets are arranged. 22. The ink jet recording head according to claim 21.

[0135] [Configuration 23] In each of the recording element substrates, the pad array is disposed on a peripheral portion of the recording element substrate, the peripheral portion having the same direction as the extension of the energy generating element array, the side of each recording element substrate on which the peripheral portion on which the pad array is arranged is present is common to the plurality of recording element substrates; 23. The ink jet recording head according to any one of configurations 19 to 22.

[0136] [Configuration 24] the plurality of recording element substrates are arranged so as to be aligned at the same position in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the energy generating elements; 20. The ink jet recording head according to claim 19.

[0137] [Configuration 25] In each of the recording element substrates, the pad array is disposed on a peripheral portion of the recording element substrate, the peripheral portion having the same direction as the extension of the energy generating element array, the side on which the peripheral portion on which the pad array is arranged is alternately switched for each of the recording element substrates; 25. The ink jet recording head according to claim 24. [Explanation of symbols]

[0138] 200 Recording element substrate 203a~h Pad 204a~h Pad 206a, b Shift register 208a, b AND array 209a, b Driver array 210a, b heater array

Claims

1. an energy-generating element array including a plurality of energy-generating elements, each of which applies energy to the liquid in a corresponding pressure chamber; a pad array including a plurality of pads for inputting a plurality of signals from the outside to drive the plurality of energy generating elements; Equipped with the extending direction of the pad array has a component in the same direction as the extending direction of the energy generating element array; Recording element board.

2. The extending direction of the pad array is the same as the extending direction of the energy generating element array. The recording element substrate according to claim 1 .

3. the pad array is disposed on a peripheral portion of the recording element substrate, the peripheral portion extending in the extending direction of the energy generating element array; The recording element substrate according to claim 1 .

4. a drive element array including a plurality of drive elements, each of which drives a corresponding one of the energy-generating elements; a logic circuit array including a plurality of logic circuits, each of which enables a corresponding one of the drive elements based at least on data input from a shift register; a shift register that shifts and holds an externally input serial signal used to drive the plurality of energy generating elements based on an externally input clock signal; Further provided with the plurality of pads include at least a pad for externally inputting the serial signal and a pad for externally inputting the clock signal; an extension direction of the drive element array, an extension direction of the logic circuit array, and an extension direction of the shift register have a component in the same direction as the extension direction of the energy generating element array; The recording element substrate according to claim 1 .

5. an extension direction of the drive element array, an extension direction of the logic circuit array, and an extension direction of the shift register are the same as an extension direction of the energy generating element array; 5. The recording element substrate according to claim 4.

6. the pad array is arranged at a position different from the energy generating element array, the drive element array, the logic circuit array, and the shift register in a direction intersecting with the extending direction of the energy generating element array; 5. The recording element substrate according to claim 4.

7. The sets including the energy generating element array, the driving element array, the logic circuit array, the shift register, and the pad array are divided into a first set including the energy generating element array, the driving element array, the logic circuit array, the shift register, and the pad array, which are arranged on a first end side along the extension direction of the energy generating element array, and a second set including the energy generating element array, the driving element array, the logic circuit array, the shift register, and the pad array, which are arranged on a second end side along the extension direction of the energy generating element array.

5. The recording element substrate according to claim 4.

8. the energy generating element array, the drive element array, and the logic circuit array belonging to the first set operate based on data output from the shift register belonging to the first set; the energy generating element array, the drive element array, and the logic circuit array belonging to the second set operate based on data output from the shift register belonging to the second set; The recording element substrate according to claim 7 .

9. the shift register included in the first set receives a first serial signal from a first end in the extension direction of the shift register included in the first set, and shifts the first serial signal toward a second end in the extension direction of the shift register included in the first set; The recording element substrate according to claim 7 .

10. the shift register included in the second set receives a second serial signal from a third end in the extension direction of the shift register included in the second set, and shifts the second serial signal toward a fourth end in the extension direction of the shift register included in the second set; The recording element substrate according to claim 7 .

11. a plurality of sets of the energy generating element array, the drive element array, the logic circuit array, and the shift register, the plurality of sets being arranged in a direction intersecting with the extension direction of the energy generating element array; 5. The recording element substrate according to claim 4.

12. the energy generating element arrays included in the plurality of sets are arranged at a common position in an extension direction of the energy generating element arrays, The recording element substrate according to claim 11 .

13. the energy generating element arrays included in the plurality of sets are arranged at positions that move sequentially in the extension direction of the energy generating element array as they proceed in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the energy generating element array, The recording element substrate according to claim 11 .

14. Plate and one or more recording element substrates according to claim 1 disposed on the plate; An inkjet recording head comprising:

15. Plate and a plurality of recording element substrates according to claim 1 arranged on the plate; Equipped with The plurality of recording element substrates are arranged in a direction intersecting with the extending direction of the energy generating element array. Inkjet recording head.

16. Plate and a plurality of recording element substrates according to claim 3 arranged on the plate; Equipped with the plurality of recording element substrates are arranged in a staggered pattern so as to form two rows in a direction intersecting the extending direction, a side of each of the recording element substrates on which the peripheral portion on which the pad array is arranged exists is common to the plurality of recording element substrates; Inkjet recording head.

17. Plate and a plurality of recording element substrates according to claim 3 arranged on the plate; Equipped with the plurality of recording element substrates are arranged in a staggered pattern so as to form two rows in a direction intersecting the extending direction, a side of the plurality of recording element substrates belonging to one row where the edge portion on which the pad array is arranged is located is opposite to a side adjacent to the other row; a side of the plurality of recording element substrates belonging to the other row where the edge portion on which the pad array is arranged is located is opposite to a side adjacent to the one row; Inkjet recording head.

18. Plate and a plurality of recording element substrates according to claim 12 arranged on the plate; Equipped with The plurality of recording element substrates are arranged in a staggered pattern, At least some of the pairs of adjacent recording element substrates are arranged so that the energy generating element arrays of each set provided on one of the recording element substrates and the energy generating element arrays of each set provided on the other of the recording element substrates are continuous with each other or have overlapping portions in the extending direction of the energy generating element arrays. Inkjet recording head.

19. Plate and a plurality of recording element substrates according to claim 13 arranged on the plate; Equipped with the plurality of recording element substrates are arranged consecutively in the extending direction of the energy generating element array, At least some of the pairs of adjacent recording element substrates are arranged so that the energy generating element arrays of each set provided on one of the recording element substrates and the energy generating element arrays of each set provided on the other of the recording element substrates are continuous with each other or have overlapping portions in the extending direction of the energy generating element arrays. Inkjet recording head.

20. at least some of the pairs of adjacent recording element substrates are arranged so that their extension ranges partially overlap in the extension direction of the energy generating element array and also partially overlap in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the energy generating element array; 20. The ink jet recording head according to claim 19.

21. at least a part of the pair of adjacent recording element substrates have planar shapes that do not interfere with each other in a plane extending in an extension direction of the energy generating element array and in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the energy generating element array; 21. The ink jet recording head according to claim 20.

22. The planar shape is a parallelogram having upper and lower sides extending in the same direction as the extension direction of the energy generating element array, and two oblique sides aligned with the positions where the energy generating elements included in the plurality of sets are arranged.

22. The ink jet recording head according to claim 21.

23. In each of the recording element substrates, the pad array is disposed on a peripheral portion of the recording element substrate, the peripheral portion having the same direction as the extension of the energy generating element array, the side of each recording element substrate on which the peripheral portion on which the pad array is arranged is present is common to the plurality of recording element substrates; 20. The ink jet recording head according to claim 19.

24. the plurality of recording element substrates are arranged so as to be aligned at the same position in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the energy generating elements; 20. The ink jet recording head according to claim 19.

25. In each of the recording element substrates, the pad array is disposed on a peripheral portion of the recording element substrate, the peripheral portion having the same direction as the extension of the energy generating element array, the side on which the peripheral portion on which the pad array is arranged is alternately switched for each of the recording element substrates; 25. The ink jet recording head according to claim 24.

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