Container

Abstract

To provide a container having a paper layer around a resin layer to receive ink allowed to inhibit the container from being eroded by the ink in the case of providing an opening for viewing the ink.SOLUTION: A container comprises an accommodation part for liquid ink and a supply part for supplying an ink accommodated to a recorder. The accommodation part has a layered structure having a resin layer as an inner layer and a paper layer as a layer facing the outside of the container. The paper layer is provided with an opening so that the ink received in the accommodation part can be seen from outside of the container through the opening. This structure facilitates changing over from a plastic container to a paper container. The technique described in the present specification is contributable to a realization of a sustainable society such as a decarbonization / circulation-type society.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a container. [Background technology]

[0002] Currently, plastic containers are widely used as ink containers for inkjet printers. However, plastic products have characteristics such as relatively high recycling costs and a large burden on the natural environment when discarded. Therefore, from an environmental perspective, reducing the proportion of plastic used and using paper as an alternative is being considered. Paper containers or containers with a high proportion of paper (hereinafter, these containers in which paper is the main component will be collectively referred to as "paper containers") have a paper base material and are opaque. Therefore, when paper is used as a liquid container, it is impossible to see the contents. To address this issue, a common method is to create a window by cutting out a notch in the container.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which a paper container that has been processed to be able to contain liquid is cut out to provide a window, and a gas barrier film or protective film is adhered to the cut-out window from the inside of the container, thereby providing the paper container with a transparent window that allows the contents to be easily seen. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-008060 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in Patent Document 1, an adhesive is used to adhere a film or protective film to the inside of a paper container. This raises the risk of ink seeping into the adhesive portion. This raises the risk of the ink seeping into the adhesive portion causing peeling or damage to the film or protective film.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to suppress erosion of the container by ink when an opening is provided in a container having a paper layer around a resin layer that contains ink, allowing the ink to be visible. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention employs the following configuration: a storage section for storing liquid ink; a supply unit that supplies the ink contained in the container to a recording device; A container comprising: The container has a layer structure including a resin layer as an inner layer and a paper layer as a layer facing the outside of the container, The paper layer is provided with an aperture, The ink contained in the container can be seen from outside the container through the opening. The container is characterized by the following. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, ink is stored in a container having a paper layer surrounding a resin layer that stores ink. When an opening is provided to allow visibility, erosion of the container by ink can be suppressed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram showing the ink erosion into the adhesive portion, which is a problem of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Schematic diagram of an ink container to which the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure can be applied. [Figure 3] Schematic diagram of a window in an ink container to which the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure can be applied. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a printer to which an ink container according to the present disclosure can be applied; [Figure 5] Schematic diagram showing how ink is filled from an ink storage container according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6] Schematic diagram showing an example of a layer configuration in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cutout window configuration in the first embodiment; [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the appearance of a cutout window in the first embodiment; [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cutout window configuration in the first embodiment; [Figure 10] Schematic diagram showing an example of a film configuration for covering a window in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] Schematic diagram showing an example of the appearance of a film covering a window in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] Schematic diagram showing an example of a window shape to which the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure can be applied. [Figure 13] Schematic diagram showing an example of a window shape in the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cutout window configuration in the second embodiment; [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the appearance of a cutout window in the second embodiment; [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cutout window configuration in the second embodiment; [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cutout window configuration in the third embodiment; [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cutout window configuration in the fourth embodiment; [Figure 19] Schematic diagram of a bottle-shaped container to which the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure can be applied. [Figure 20] Schematic diagram of a roof-shaped container to which the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure can be applied. [Figure 21] Schematic diagram of a bag-shaped container to which the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure can be applied. [Figure 22] Schematic diagram of a brick-shaped container to which the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure can be applied. [Figure 23] Schematic diagram of a can-shaped container to which the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure can be applied. [Figure 24] Schematic diagram showing an opening / closing member provided in a cutout window. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, unless otherwise specified, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative positions, etc. of the components described in these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention to those. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the materials, shapes, etc. of components described once in the following description will be the same as those described initially. Well-known or publicly known technologies in the relevant technical field can be applied to configurations and processes not specifically illustrated or described.

[0011] In the following description, a window is provided on the side of the container, but this configuration is merely an example. Furthermore, although the following description will be made using an ink container for an inkjet printer, the contents of the present disclosure can also be applied to ink containers other than those for inkjet printers.

[0012] In the following description, a paper container refers to a container made primarily of paper. However, in consideration of preventing erosion of the paper by ink, paper is used in combination with a material other than paper. The paper container of the present disclosure includes, for example, a container in which a paper layer is bonded, combined, or stacked with a resin layer such as plastic. The container of the present disclosure is a conventional container made entirely of resin, in which at least a portion is replaced with paper. The paper container of the present disclosure is more preferably made of paper at least 50% by weight and / or volume.

[0013] Similarly, in the following description, components referred to as paper layers do not necessarily all consist of paper. It may refer to a material in which paper is the most common constituent material and one or more resin or film layers are coated or sandwiched between them. Similarly, in the following description, components referred to as resin layers do not necessarily all consist of a single material. Similarly, in the following description, components referred to as films or resin films do not necessarily all consist of a single material. It may refer to a material having a layered structure in which multiple materials with different properties are stacked on top of each other.

[0014] <Explanation of the problem of this disclosure> The following provides a supplementary explanation of the problems of the present disclosure. Conventionally, plastic containers with a layer of aluminum or a resin film with high gas barrier properties have been widely used as ink containers for inkjet printers 20. However, there are environmentally friendly trends toward restricting the use of plastic and reducing its amount. Paper containers have been gaining attention as an alternative to plastic containers, but paper containers present a problem in that the ink contents cannot be seen from the outside, making it impossible to check the color and other condition of the contents or the amount remaining.

[0015] One way to solve this problem is to create a window as an opening in part of the container and adhere a transparent film to the window, which allows the ink to be seen from inside the container. Figure 1 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the configuration of an ink container 00 in the prior art, with the left side of the page showing the ink-containing side (inside the container) and the right side of the page showing the atmospheric side (outside the container). A resin film 03 is adhered to a cutout window 01 provided in a paper substrate 02 of the container from the inside, preventing ink from leaking from the inside to the outside while allowing the user to see the remaining ink level.

[0016] However, if the ink has strong properties such as acidity or alkalinity, or if it is stored for a long period of time, corrosion 04 may occur in the adhesive area between the resin film 03 and the paper substrate 02.

[0017] In Patent Document 1, a sealing sheet with gas barrier properties is heat-bonded from the inside to the cutout window, and then a protective film is laminated on top of that, thereby achieving gas barrier properties and preventing erosion by ink at the adhesive joint.

[0018] However, the technology of Patent Document 1 cannot prevent the protective sheet from being corroded by ink and peeling off. If the protective sheet is peeled off, it becomes impossible to prevent the sealing sheet from being corroded.

[0019] Furthermore, the technology in Patent Document 1 solves the problem of ink deterioration and fading caused by external light. In other words, ink exposed to light through a window may be altered by incident light from the external environment, as shown in Figure 1 as ink deterioration 21, and the ink may no longer fulfill its intended purpose. This type of ink deterioration and discoloration due to external light 05 must also be taken into consideration.

[0020] In view of the above problems, the present disclosure aims to prevent corrosion of the adhesive portion by ink and suppress peeling of the film in an ink containing container 00 having a cutout window 01. Another aim of the present disclosure is to prevent ink deterioration due to incident light from outside.

[0021] <Ink container structure> 2(a) and (b) are schematic diagrams showing an example of a configuration in which a notched window 01 is provided in an ink container 00, which is a paper container. The ink container 00 has a container portion 17 that can contain ink, and the opening of the container portion 17 is plugged with a stopper 12. The position may be below the container part 17 as shown in FIG. 2(a) or above the container part 17 as shown in FIG. 2(b).

[0022] FIG. 3 is a partial schematic diagram showing the cutout window 01 as viewed from the outside of the container. The cutout window 01 is a window portion where the paper layer 10 is cut out, allowing the transparent resin film 03 (resin layer, film layer) disposed inside and the contents inside the container to be seen. In this disclosure, the term "cutout window" may be used to refer to the window portion, which is an opening provided in the paper layer 10, but the method of providing the window portion is not limited to cutting. For example, multiple papers may be bonded together in a manner that leaves an opening. Furthermore, when a pulp mold is molded into the paper layer 10, the opening may be provided from the beginning.

[0023] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an inkjet printer 20 to which an ink containing container 00 according to the present disclosure can be applied. Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the process of filling the inkjet printer 20 with ink from the ink containing container 00 according to the present disclosure. When filling the inkjet printer 20 with ink, a user opens the spout 12 of the ink containing container 00 to expose the spout 18, and removes the cap from the fill opening 23 of the tank 22 of the color to be refilled. Then, the user inserts the spout 18 into the fill opening 23 and injects the ink.

[0024] It should be noted that this filling configuration is merely an example. The configuration of the supply unit for extracting ink to be supplied from the ink containing container 00 to the inkjet printer 20 is not limited to the spout 18. For example, an opening sealed with a cap or seal may be provided, and the opening may be opened during filling, allowing the ink to be transferred using a syringe or tube. Similarly, the configuration of the receiving unit for receiving ink supplied from the supply unit in the inkjet printer 20 or tank 22 is not limited to the filling opening 23. The ink containing container 00 of the present disclosure can be widely applied to image forming devices (recording devices) that use liquid ink, and tanks arranged in such image forming devices.

[0025] [First embodiment] The first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 2 and 6 to 12. As described above, 2 shows an example of an ink container 00, which has a spout at the top of the cylindrical surface that serves as an ink ejection port and is plugged with a stopper 12. A cutout window 01 is provided on the cylindrical surface so that the contents can be checked.

[0026] (Structure that prevents ink erosion) An example of the layer structure of an ink container 00 is shown in Figure 6. Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the container in a portion other than the window, with the left side of the page showing the inner layer of the container (the side that comes into contact with ink) and the right side showing the outer layer of the container (the side that comes into contact with the atmosphere). As such, the ink container 00 has a laminated structure of at least a resin layer 11 that is resistant to corrosion by ink and a paper layer 10.

[0027] Figure 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of the portion where the window portion is provided. As shown in the figure, the cutout window 01 is provided only in the paper layer 10, and no cutout is provided in the resin layer 11. Figure 8 shows the cutout window 01 as viewed from the outside. Note that the resin layer 11 spreads uniformly over the entire inside of the container portion 17 to prevent ink leakage.

[0028] From the viewpoint of environmental consideration, it is preferable that the thickness of the layers constituting the container, that is, the outer paper layer 10, is thicker than the inner resin layer 11.

[0029] With this configuration, there is no adhesive area because resin layer 11 is uniformly formed on the inside of the window. Therefore, even if the contents have acidic or alkaline properties, peeling of the film due to erosion at the adhesive area, as in the prior art, does not occur.

[0030] (Configuration that reduces the effects of external light) Next, a configuration for preventing deterioration of ink due to incident light from outside will be described. FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which a transmittance-reducing film 06 has been further placed on the window portion in the state shown in FIG. 7. In the figure, the transmittance-reducing film 06 is adhered from the outside of the container to the area corresponding to the cutout window 01. The transmittance-reducing film 06 in this embodiment is a film with low transmittance for all light rays. FIG. 11 is an external view of the cutout window 01 with the transmittance-reducing film 06 adhered thereto, seen from the outside of the container. The size of the transmittance-reducing film 06 is set to be large enough to cover at least the cutout window 01. Furthermore, when adhering the film around its periphery, it should be slightly larger than the cutout window 01, as shown in this figure.

[0031] In this way, by providing the transmittance reducing film 06 so as to cover the cutout window 01, it is possible to prevent the ink from deteriorating even when external light 05, such as sunlight, enters the window. The size of the transmittance reducing film 06 is at least larger than the outline of the window. It is preferable that the transmittance reducing film 06 has the same shape as the outline of the window and is a larger size. For bonding, an adhesive may be used, or a layer that is suitable for thermal bonding may be provided in the laminated structure of the transmittance reducing film 06.

[0032] The optical properties of the transmittance reducing film 06 are preferably such that the line indicating the amount of ink contained is visible so that the user can check the amount of ink contained, and further, such that the color of the content can be distinguished. For example, a translucent film is also acceptable.

[0033] Furthermore, since ultraviolet rays have the greatest effect on ink degradation among natural light sources, it is advisable to use a film that reduces ultraviolet transmittance as the transmittance reducing film 06.

[0034] (Window placement and shape) FIG. 2(a) shows an example of the position of the window in the ink container 00 of the present disclosure described above. It is preferable that the window be located in a position that allows easy viewing of the contents when the product is displayed or opened. Therefore, the bottle in FIG. 2(a) has a window on the cylindrical surface, which is easily visible. In FIG. 2(b), a window is also located on the side. This arrangement makes it easy to check the remaining ink level during or after filling the ink container 00 upside down.

[0035] Figure 2(c) shows another example of the location of the window. In this way, by providing the window near the conical part near the ejection port rather than on the cylindrical surface, it is also possible to easily check the remaining ink amount during or after ink injection. The configuration of Figure 2(c) also makes it possible to emphasize that the container is filled with content when first using it.

[0036] The larger the window, the higher the visibility, but on the other hand, it may lead to a decrease in strength and the incidence of external light. From the viewpoint of container strength, the ratio of the area occupied by the cutout window 01 to the area of ​​the paper layer 10 on the outer surface of the ink container 00 is preferably 10% or less. However, from the viewpoint of improving visibility, for example, in the case of a circular window, it is preferable that the diameter is at least 5 mm or more and the area is 20 mm or less. 2 The above is preferable.

[0037] Figures 12(a) to (e) show examples of window shapes. To prevent damage due to external forces, it is preferable that the window has no corners. That is, it is preferable to use a circular or elliptical shape without corners as in Figures 12(a) and (b), or when using a triangular, square, or rectangular shape as in Figures 12(c) to (e), it is preferable to round the corners with R processing. As in Figure 12(e), In the normal installation state of the container, the long window in the vertical direction (gravity direction) is used to check the content volume. It is suitable for.

[0038] Furthermore, a window shape with a sophisticated design may be adopted, such as the star shape shown in Fig. 15. In this case, it is preferable to join a window frame with a star-shaped outline from the outside of the transmittance-reducing film 06.

[0039] Regarding the number of windows, at least one window is provided in the container. In the case of a container having multiple sides, it is preferable to provide one window on each side, since this allows the volume to be checked from various directions.

[0040] (Desired characteristics) The following describes the characteristics and preferred ranges required for the ink container 00. A container with a window is required to have resistance to the ink's characteristics (such as acidity or alkalinity), gas barrier properties, water vapor barrier properties, impermeability to visible light and ultraviolet light, internal visibility to check the presence or absence of contents and the remaining amount, and strength retention against load.

[0041] The properties such as acid resistance and alkali resistance are provided by the resin layer 11. For this purpose, the resin layer 11 may preferably have a layer of polyethylene (PE). Other materials that may be used include vinyl chloride, polystyrene, and polypropylene.

[0042] The gas barrier properties are provided by the resin layer 11. For this purpose, the resin layer 11 may be, for example, a layer of PET resin. Other materials that can be used include films with transparent vapor deposition of silicon oxide or alumina, polyvinyl alcohol, and polyvinylidene chloride. Performance is measured using a test method in accordance with JIS K 7126, with an oxygen permeability of 0.10 cc / m 2 - It is preferable that it is less than 1 day stomach.

[0043] The resin layer 11 must be made of a material that transmits light to an extent that allows at least the remaining amount of the content to be visible. Here, in a container for liquid ink, it is important that the remaining amount of the content can be visually confirmed, but unlike food containers, it is not necessary to be able to accurately see the color of the content. Specifically, a light transmittance of about 20% for visible light is generally sufficient, and a lower value (e.g., 10%) is also acceptable. This allows the quality of the ink to be maintained for a longer period of time. The light transmittance referred to here is a value that takes into account the attenuation of light by the transmittance-reducing film 06 and the attenuation of light by the resin layer 11. In other words, if the resin layer 11 itself attenuates a large amount of light, the attenuation rate of the transmittance-reducing film 06 need not be very large.

[0044] The resin layer 11 is responsible for the barrier properties against water vapor. For this purpose, the resin layer 11 may have, for example, a layer of polyolefin resin. Other examples include films with transparent vapor deposition of polyvinylidene chloride, silicon oxide, or alumina. Performance is measured using a test method in accordance with JIS K 7129, and the oxygen permeability is 0.5 g / m. 2 ·day or less is preferable.

[0045] The transmittance reducing film 06 is responsible for the impermeability to visible light and ultraviolet light. For this reason, the transmittance reducing film 06 may have, for example, a layer of opaque PET film. Performance can also be improved by increasing the crystallinity to make it opaque. In terms of performance, the total light transmittance of the transmittance reducing film 06 is determined based on JIS K 7361-1 / Plastic It is preferable that the transmittance of light rays is 40% or less in accordance with the test method based on "Total Light Transmittance of Transparent Materials." From the viewpoint of visibility, if the light transmittance in the wavelength range of 360 to 400 nm is relatively high, the contents can be clearly seen.

[0046] For the purpose of preventing transmission of ultraviolet light, the transmittance reducing film 06 may have, for example, a layer of a resin film containing a UV absorber. In terms of performance, the UV transmittance of the transmittance-reducing film 06 is measured in the range of 10 to 400 nm in wavelength using a test method conforming to JIS K 7361-1. It is preferable that the transmittance be 40% or less of that of ambient light. Note that ultraviolet light has a wavelength that cannot be detected by the human eye, so users do not need ultraviolet light to check the remaining ink level. Therefore, it is preferable to keep the ultraviolet transmittance as low as possible, for example, below the visible light transmittance. The transmittance-reducing film 06 may be a laminate of multiple films that each specifically attenuate light in a different wavelength range.

[0047] Regarding strength, it is necessary to retain the liquid and at least not break during normal use. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 9(a) and 9(b), the strength of the window portion can be improved by forming a thicker layer only in the region corresponding to the cutout window 01 on the inside of the resin layer 11 inside the container (the side that comes into contact with the ink) than in other regions. One method for forming such a thicker portion is, for example, to laminate or apply a thick layer of resin layer 11 only to the window portion when the member formed by laminating the resin layer 11 and the paper layer 10 is in a sheet form before the container is formed. Furthermore, when the ink container 00 has a complex shape such as a bottle, one method is to spray a material onto the window portion from inside the container.

[0048] The size of the area where the resin layer 11 is thickened is preferably at least the same size as the window portion. Furthermore, to more reliably suppress light penetration, it is preferable to make the size slightly larger than the window portion. In the figure, the thickness of the resin layer 11 is increased by raising the resin layer 11 toward the inside of the container (toward the liquid) in the area corresponding to the window portion. In this case, the thickness of the paper layer 10 does not need to be changed, so only the resin layer 11 needs to be processed, making manufacturing easier. However, the resin layer 11 may also be raised toward the outside of the container.

[0049] <Effects of this embodiment> As described above, in this embodiment, the container is made of a paper material in which a resin layer 11 and a paper layer 10 are laminated. According to the configuration of this embodiment, there is no adhesive bond on the inside of the container that comes into contact with ink, so peeling of the film due to erosion and ink leakage from holes can be prevented. Furthermore, in this embodiment, by covering the window with a film with low total light transmittance, it is possible to prevent the contents from being affected by external light 05.

[0050] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to create an ink storage container 00 that has a configuration that makes it difficult for ink to erode, that can prevent ink deterioration 21 due to light, and that allows the presence or absence of contents to be confirmed. Because the ink storage container 00 has excellent visibility of the contents, it can eliminate the disadvantage of paper containers, where the contents cannot be seen, and can be used to replace plastic containers with paper containers.

[0051] [Second embodiment] The second embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 14 to 18. Description of the same configuration as the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0052] An example of the layer structure of an ink container 00 of this embodiment is shown in FIG. 14. Differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described below. The ink container 00 has an ink storage section formed by laminating a resin layer 11 resistant to ink corrosion and a paper layer 10. The paper layer 10 alone is cut out to form a cutout window 01 for viewing the contents, which is the same as the first embodiment. Additionally, in this embodiment, a layer of transmittance-reducing film 06 is disposed between the resin layer 11 and the paper layer 10. The transmittance-reducing film 06 can be disposed by any method as long as it can be stably fixed, and may be, for example, adhesive or thermal welding. The film is disposed in a position that at least covers the cutout area intended to be cut out as the window. Furthermore, it is preferable that the film be disposed in a position that also covers the periphery of the cutout area.

[0053] A resin layer 11 is uniformly disposed on the inside of the container. This eliminates the risk of film peeling due to corrosion of the adhesive portion by acidic or alkaline ink. As shown in Figure 16, similar to the first embodiment, the resin layer 11 is thickened only around the cutout window 01 on the inside of the container, thereby improving the strength of the window portion.

[0054] FIG. 15 shows the appearance of the cutout window 01 of this embodiment. When viewed from the outside, the transmittance reducing film 06 is disposed over the entire area of ​​the cutout window 01. This makes it possible to suppress the effects of external light 05. The size of the transmittance reducing film 06 is preferably set to an area at least larger than the outline of the window portion. The characteristics, preferred materials, and configuration of the transmittance reducing film 06 are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0055] <Effects of this embodiment> According to this embodiment, an ink container 00 having an ink storage section, an inner layer made of a resin layer 11, and an outer layer made of a paper layer 10, can be provided with a cutout window 01 for checking the remaining ink amount and color from the outside. In this case, since the entire portion that comes into contact with the ink is covered with the resin layer 11, it is possible to prevent ink from penetrating the adhesive, film peeling, and ink leakage. In addition, by covering the window with a transmittance-reducing film 06, it is possible to suppress the incidence of light from outside and prevent ink degradation, etc.

[0056] [Third embodiment] The third embodiment will be described below, and the description of the same configuration as the first and second embodiments may be omitted.

[0057] An example of the layer structure of an ink container 00 of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 17. The following mainly describes the differences from the second embodiment. In the ink container 00 in which a resin layer 11 and a paper layer 10 are laminated, a cutout is provided only in the paper layer 10, and a transmittance-reducing film 06 is disposed between the paper layer 10 and the resin layer 11, as in the second embodiment. This prevents the adhesive portion from being exposed to ink, thereby preventing ink from eroding the adhesive portion.

[0058] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a transmittance reducing film 06 is also provided around the periphery of the cutout window 01 from the outside of the container. That is, in this embodiment, films are provided on both the inside and outside of the window portion, forming a double structure that can enhance the effect of blocking external light. The film used on the outside is larger in size than the outline of the window portion. Also, the film on the inside of the container and the film on the outside may share functions.

[0059] <Effects of this embodiment> According to this embodiment, in an ink container having an inner resin layer and an outer paper layer, a window cut out from the paper is provided, which prevents ink from penetrating the adhesive portion. Also, by covering the window with a transmittance-reducing film 06, the entrance of external light is suppressed, preventing ink deterioration.

[0060] [Fourth embodiment] The fourth embodiment will be described below, and the description of the same configuration as the first to third embodiments may be omitted.

[0061] An example of the layer structure of the ink container 00 of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 18. The differences from the first embodiment will be mainly explained. In the ink container 00 in which a resin layer 14 and a paper layer 10 are laminated, a cutout portion is provided only in the paper layer 10, and serves as a cutout window 01 for checking the contents. In this embodiment, instead of providing a transmittance reducing film 06, the resin layer 14 plays the role of reducing the transmittance of external light 05. That is, the resin layer 14 of this embodiment has at least a cutout portion. The region of the notched window 01 and its periphery have the function of reducing the transmittance of external light 05. For this purpose, the resin layer 14 is laminated with a layer that reduces the transmittance of external light 05. Alternatively, the material of the resin layer 14 contains a component that reduces the transmittance of external light 05.

[0062] <Effects of this embodiment> According to this embodiment, an ink container 00 having an ink storage section, an inner layer made of a resin layer 14, and an outer layer made of a paper layer 10 can be provided with a cutout window 01 for checking the remaining ink amount and color from the outside. In this case, because all parts that come into contact with ink are covered with the resin layer 14, it is possible to prevent ink from penetrating the adhesive, film peeling, and ink leakage. Furthermore, since the resin layer 14 of the ink storage section includes a layer with low total light transmittance, it is possible to suppress the incidence of light from outside and prevent ink degradation, etc.

[0063] <Container shapes applicable to this embodiment> 19 to 23 show examples of container shapes to which the configuration of the present disclosure can be applied. As shown in these figures, there are various container shapes and sizes, window position and size, and sealing methods using stoppers or lids. Furthermore, the manufacturing method is not limited to the examples below.

[0064] 19(a) to 19(d) show examples of bottle-shaped ink containers. One method for manufacturing a bottle-shaped container is to manufacture a resin portion 11 by mold molding or injection molding, and then fit or wrap a paper layer 10 with a window portion over it. Then, a transmittance-reducing film 06 is adhered.

[0065] 20(a) and (b) show examples of roof-shaped ink containers. Roof-shaped containers can be manufactured in the same way as beverage cartons. Specifically, a composite sheet is formed by laminating a resin layer 11, a paper layer 10 with a hole for the window, and a transmittance-reducing film 06, and then assembled into the desired container shape.

[0066] 21(a) to (c) show examples of a bag-shaped ink container. In this case too, it can be manufactured by laminating a resin layer 11, a paper layer 10, and a transmittance-reducing film 06 and assembling them into a pouch shape as shown in the figures.

[0067] 22(a) to 22(c) show examples of brick-shaped ink containers. Brick-shaped containers may be manufactured in the same manner as roof-shaped containers, for example. Alternatively, they may be manufactured by pressing a resin pack into a paper container outer frame.

[0068] 23(a) and (b) show examples of cylindrical ink containers like cans. Cylindrical containers may be manufactured in the same way as bottle-shaped containers, by fitting a resin inner container into a paper outer container, or by gluing a paper material to the outer periphery of a resin container.

[0069] The plug shape is not limited to the shape of the plug 12 shown in Fig. 2. It may be a method of plugging with a cap as shown in Figs. 19 to 2, a method of plugging by folding the container material itself, or a method of sealing with a sealant 13 as shown in Fig. 23.

[0070] In the above description, the transmittance-reducing film 06 is disposed on the outer side of the resin layer 11 in the window portion, and the resin layer 11 is provided with a function of blocking external light. However, other configurations are possible as long as they can prevent light from entering the window portion. For example, an opening / closing member 24 that can open and close the window portion may be provided. The opening / closing member 24 is a member that blocks external light 05 in the closed state shown in FIG. 24(a), and allows the state of the ink to be visible from the outside through the notched window 01 in the open state shown in FIG. 24(b). Examples of the opening / closing member 24 include a shutter, a seal, a cap, etc.

[0071] The method for checking the inside of the container is not limited to visual inspection by a user. In other words, "visual inspection" in this disclosure includes optical methods, such as capturing an image of the exterior of the container with a camera and analyzing the resulting image.

[0072] As described above, the configurations described in the embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a configuration that prevents ink from corroding the adhesive between the window film and the paper container when creating an ink container 00 whose contents can be viewed through a window. Furthermore, it can prevent ink deterioration due to light.

[0073] This ink container 00 allows the contents to be seen from the outside, eliminating the disadvantage of paper containers where the contents are not visible, and allowing for the replacement of plastic containers with paper containers. Therefore, in ink containers with windows, problems such as ink erosion at the window adhesive and changes in the contents due to light entering the container can be prevented.

[0074] The configuration of the present disclosure can promote the replacement of plastic containers with paper containers (including those made of a mixture of paper and plastic with a lower plastic content than conventional containers). At the very least, the amount of plastic used can be reduced compared to conventional containers. The technology described herein can contribute to the realization of a sustainable society, such as a carbon-free / recycling-based society.

[0075] [Configuration 1] a storage section for storing liquid ink; a supply unit that supplies the ink contained in the container to a recording device; A container comprising: The container has a layer structure including a resin layer as an inner layer and a paper layer as a layer facing the outside of the container, The paper layer is provided with an aperture, The ink contained in the container can be seen from outside the container through the opening. A container characterized by: [Configuration 2] In the storage section, only the resin layer is in contact with the ink. 2. The container according to claim 1. [Configuration 3] 3. The container according to claim 1, wherein the resin layer is thicker in the region corresponding to the opening than in other regions. [Configuration 4] In the region corresponding to the opening, the resin layer is raised toward the inside of the container, thereby increasing the thickness of the resin layer. 4. The container according to claim 3. [Configuration 5] In a region corresponding to the opening, a film for reducing light transmittance is provided outside the resin layer. 5. The container according to any one of claims 1 to 4. [Configuration 6] The film is provided at least either at a position outside the resin layer and inside the paper layer, or at a position outside the resin layer and the paper layer. 6. The container according to claim 5. [Configuration 7] The film has a light transmittance of 40% or less for visible light and ultraviolet light. 7. A container according to configuration 5 or 6. [Configuration 8] The film has a lower transmittance for ultraviolet light than for visible light. 8. The container according to claim 7. [Configuration 9] When the inside of the container is viewed from the outside of the container through the film and the resin layer, the light transmittance is 20% or less. 9. A container according to any one of claims 5 to 8. [Configuration 10] An opening / closing member is provided in a region corresponding to the opening, and in an open state, the opening / closing member makes it possible to visually check the ink contained in the containing section. 10. A container according to any one of claims 1 to 9. [Configuration 11] When the inside of the container is viewed from the outside of the container through the opening and the resin layer, the light transmittance is 20% or less. 11. A container according to any one of claims 1 to 10. [Explanation of symbols]

[0076] 00: Ink container, 01: Cutout window, 06: Total light transmittance reducing film, 10: Paper layer, 11: Resin layer, 12: Stopper, 17: Container, 18: Spout

Claims

1. a storage section for storing liquid ink; a supply unit that supplies the ink contained in the container to a recording device; A container comprising: The container has a layer structure including a resin layer as an inner layer and a paper layer as a layer facing the outside of the container, The paper layer is provided with an aperture, The ink contained in the container can be seen from outside the container through the opening. A container characterized by:

2. In the storage section, only the resin layer is in contact with the ink.

2. The container of claim 1.

3. 2. The container according to claim 1, wherein the resin layer is thicker in the region corresponding to the opening than in other regions.

4. In the region corresponding to the opening, the resin layer is raised toward the inside of the container, thereby increasing the thickness of the resin layer.

4. The container of claim 3.

5. In a region corresponding to the opening, a film for reducing light transmittance is provided outside the resin layer.

2. The container according to claim 1 .

6. The film is provided at least either at a position outside the resin layer and inside the paper layer, or at a position outside the resin layer and the paper layer.

6. The container of claim 5.

7. The film has a light transmittance of 40% or less for visible light and ultraviolet light.

7. The container according to claim 5 or 6.

8. The film has a lower transmittance for ultraviolet light than for visible light.

8. The container of claim 7.

9. When the inside of the container is viewed from the outside of the container through the film and the resin layer, the light transmittance is 20% or less.

7. The container according to claim 5 or 6.

10. An opening / closing member is provided in a region corresponding to the opening, and in an open state, the opening / closing member makes it possible to visually check the ink contained in the containing section. Container according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

11. When the inside of the container is viewed from the outside of the container through the opening and the resin layer, the light transmittance is 20% or less. Container according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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