Liquid discharge head, head module, liquid discharge unit and device for discharging liquid

Abstract

To simplify such a structure as to correct a striking position deviation deviated from a target striking position of a liquid discharged from a nozzle.SOLUTION: A liquid discharge head includes a plurality of nozzles ch1 to chN which are arrayed in a predetermined array direction (nozzle array direction), a plurality of pressure chambers each communicating with the plurality of nozzles, a diaphragm constituting the wall parts of the plurality of pressure chambers, and an actuator element 40 for driving the diaphragm, wherein the nozzle has a cross-sectional area in a nozzle inlet part 13 on a pressure chamber side larger than that in a nozzle outlet part 12 on a side to which the liquid is discharged, and the plurality of nozzles ch1 to chN are constituted so that an average value of a nozzle pitch Pn in the array direction and an average value of dot pitches of the liquid discharged from the plurality of nozzles substantially coincide with each other, and deviation amounts L1 to LN between a central line O12 of the nozzle output part and a central line O13 of the nozzle inlet part gradually increase from a central nozzle chN / 2 in the array direction toward the nozzles ch1 and chN of each of the ends.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid ejection head, a head module, a liquid ejection unit, and an apparatus for ejecting liquid. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a liquid ejection head has been known that has a plurality of nozzles arranged in a predetermined arrangement direction, a plurality of pressure chambers that are respectively connected to the plurality of nozzles, a vibration plate that forms the walls of the plurality of pressure chambers, and an actuator element that drives the vibration plate.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a liquid ejection head that solves the problem of droplets ejected from nozzles located near the ends of a nozzle array being deflected toward the center of the nozzle array by the influence of an ejection airflow generated by the ejected droplets, resulting in droplets deviating from their intended landing positions. In this liquid ejection head, the ejection port sections of each of the nozzles constituting the nozzle array are each composed of a first ejection port section (nozzle outlet section) including a liquid ejection port and a second ejection port section (nozzle inlet section) connecting a pressure chamber to the first ejection port section. Furthermore, for ten nozzles arranged in the end region of the nozzle array, the center of the first ejection port section is offset toward the end of the nozzle array from the center of the second ejection port section, with the offset amount increasing by d0 (=0.1 μm) for nozzles closer to the end. According to this, droplets are ejected from the ten nozzles arranged in the end region of the nozzle array at an angle toward the end of the nozzle array, and as a result, droplets affected by the airflow land at their intended landing positions. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, conventional liquid ejection heads have a problem in that the configuration for correcting the deviation of the landing position of the liquid ejected from the nozzle from the target landing position is complicated. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a liquid ejection head having a plurality of nozzles arranged in a predetermined arrangement direction, a plurality of pressure chambers each communicating with the plurality of nozzles, a vibration plate constituting the wall of the plurality of pressure chambers, and an actuator element for driving the vibration plate, wherein the nozzle has a larger cross-sectional area at the nozzle inlet on the pressure chamber side than at the nozzle outlet on the side from which the liquid is ejected, and the plurality of nozzles are configured such that the amount of deviation between the center line of the nozzle outlet and the center line of the nozzle inlet in the arrangement direction gradually increases from the central nozzle toward the nozzles at each end, so that the average nozzle pitch in the arrangement direction approximately matches the average dot pitch of the liquid ejected from the plurality of nozzles. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to simplify the configuration for correcting the deviation of the landing position of the liquid ejected from the nozzle from the target landing position. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the head unit according to the embodiment, viewed from the normal direction of the recording material. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the head arrangement of the recording heads provided for each recording section of the head unit. [Figure 3] 1A is a perspective view of one head module as seen from the nozzle surface (ejection surface) side, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view of one head module as seen from the opposite side to the nozzle surface. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a nozzle surface of the head module. [Figure 5] 9 is a cross-sectional view (cross-section AA' in FIG. 9) of one nozzle (the nozzle at the center in the nozzle arrangement direction) in the recording head according to the embodiment, taken along the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric element. [Figure 6]10 is a cross-sectional view (cross-section BB' in FIG. 9) of one nozzle (the nozzle at the center in the nozzle arrangement direction) in the recording head, taken along the short side direction of the piezoelectric element. [Figure 7] 1A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a landing position deviation that occurs in a nozzle array in which multiple nozzles with a normal nozzle structure are arranged, and 1B is a graph showing the amount of landing position deviation that occurs in each nozzle in terms of deviation angle in the landing position deviation shown in 1A. [Figure 8] 1A is an explanatory diagram showing another example of a landing position deviation occurring in a nozzle array in which multiple nozzles with a normal nozzle structure are arranged, and FIG. 1B is a graph showing the amount of landing position deviation occurring in each nozzle in terms of deviation angle in the landing position deviation shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the structure (positional relationship in the nozzle surface direction) of a plurality of nozzles that form a nozzle row when viewed from the nozzle surface side of the print head according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the structure (positional relationship in the nozzle surface direction) of a plurality of nozzles that form a nozzle row when viewed from the nozzle surface side of the print head according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 11] 11 is a graph showing the example shown in FIG. 10 in which the average rate of change in the amount of deviation from the nozzle at the center in the nozzle arrangement direction to the nozzles at each end is 0.0009 μm / nozzle. [Figure 12] 7A and 7B are explanatory diagrams showing a case where deviation in landing position occurs in nozzles at the end regions of nozzle arrays of two recording heads, as shown in FIG. 7A. [Figure 13] Graph (a) shows the amount of deviation in landing position, in degrees, of each nozzle when the configuration shown in Fig. 9 is applied to a case where the deviation in landing position occurs as shown in Fig. 7(a). Graph (b) shows the amount of deviation in landing position, in degrees, of each nozzle when the configuration shown in Fig. 10 is applied to a case where the deviation in landing position occurs as shown in Fig. 8(a). [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing yet another example of the structure of a plurality of nozzles that form a nozzle row when viewed from the nozzle surface side of the print head according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is an explanatory plan view of the main parts of another example of a device that ejects liquid. [Figure 16] FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is an explanatory plan view of a main part of another example of a liquid ejection unit. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a front view illustrating still another example of the liquid ejection unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described in which a liquid ejection head according to the present invention is applied to a head unit of an inkjet recording apparatus, which is an image forming apparatus that ejects liquid.

[0009] First, the head unit in this embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a plan view of the head unit 2 as seen from the normal direction of a recording material P0, which is a recording medium. The recording material P0 is, for example, paper, and may be roll paper (continuous paper) or cut paper. It may also be various media other than paper (such as cloth). The recording material P0 is transported in the transport direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 1. The head unit 2 is supported so as to face the recording surface of the recording material P0 at a predetermined distance.

[0010] The head unit 2 is equipped with a K recording unit 2K, a C recording unit 2C, an M recording unit 2M, and a Y recording unit 2Y, which are liquid ejection head devices for each color, corresponding to each ink (liquid) of black (K), cyan (C), magenta (M), and yellow (Y).

[0011] The recording units 2K, 2C, 2M, and 2Y for each color have three head modules 6A, 6B, and 6C, each having two recording heads 3 and 4 as liquid ejection heads, attached to a mount 2a serving as a base member. Each head module 6A, 6B, and 6C has the same configuration, and the recording heads 3 and 4 also have the same configuration. The two recording heads 3 and 4 provided in each head module 6A, 6B, and 6C are arranged so as to be offset from each other in the head short-side direction (the up-and-down direction in FIG. 1) and the head long-side direction (the left-and-right direction in FIG. 1), as shown in FIG.

[0012] In this embodiment, the two recording heads 3, 4 are arranged so that part of each nozzle row overlaps with each other in the head longitudinal direction, but this is not limited to this. For example, the two recording heads 3, 4 may be arranged so that the nozzle rows of the two recording heads 3, 4 do not overlap with each other in the head longitudinal direction, and the nozzle pitch between the end nozzles located at one end of each nozzle row of the two recording heads 3, 4 is a predetermined nozzle pitch.

[0013] In the recording units 2K, 2C, 2M, and 2Y of each color, the three head modules 6A, 6B, and 6C are provided so that the two recording heads 3 and 4 that straddle two adjacent head modules 6A, 6B, and 6C are positioned offset from each other in the head short-side direction and so that their respective nozzle rows partially overlap each other in the head long-side direction (the left-right direction in FIG. 1). As a result, in the recording units 2K, 2C, 2M, and 2Y of each color, the recording heads 3 and 4 are arranged in a staggered pattern along the recording material width direction (the direction perpendicular to the conveyance direction), which is the head long-side direction, as shown in FIG.

[0014] By arranging the recording heads 3 and 4 in this manner in the recording units 2K, 2C, 2M, and 2Y for each color, it is possible to widen the recording range in the head longitudinal direction of the entire recording unit (the range in which an image can be recorded by ink ejected from the nozzles 5). As a result, it is possible to obtain a recording unit with a recording range that spans the width direction of the recording material P0, and to realize a line-type head unit 2, so that an image can be formed on the recording material P0 in one pass without scanning the head unit 2.

[0015] It should be noted that the number of recording units mounted on the head unit 2, the number of recording heads arranged in the recording units, the type of liquid (ink color, etc.) ejected from the recording units, etc. can be set arbitrarily. Therefore, for example, the head unit 2 may be a head unit that includes only a black recording unit 2K and performs recording in black alone.

[0016] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the head arrangement of the recording head 3 and the recording head 4 provided for each recording section of the head unit 2. As shown in FIG. The recording head 3 and the recording head 4 each have a nozzle row (for example, a nozzle row consisting of 800 nozzles) in which a plurality of nozzles 5 are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the head. In this embodiment, an example in which there is one nozzle row will be described, but a configuration in which two or more nozzle rows are aligned in the recording material conveyance direction may also be used. Furthermore, the nozzle row may be arranged so that the nozzle row direction is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the head.

[0017] In this embodiment, on one head module 6A, 6B, 6C, one of the two recording heads 3, 4, 3, partially overlaps with the other recording head 4, and portions of the nozzle rows of each are arranged to overlap with each other in the head longitudinal direction.

[0018] Note that this embodiment is an example in which three head modules 6A, 6B, and 6C are arranged in the head longitudinal direction to form recording sections 2K, 2C, 2M, and 2Y with a recording range that spans the width direction of the recording material P0, thereby realizing a line-type head unit 2, but this is not limited to this. For example, it may also be a head unit made up of a single head module 6. This head unit can be realized as a scanning-type head unit by being mounted on a carriage that moves back and forth in the width direction (main scanning direction) of the recording material P0, for example.

[0019] FIG. 3(a) is a perspective view of one head module 6 when viewed from the nozzle surface (ejection surface) side, and FIG. 3(b) is a perspective view of one head module 6 when viewed from the opposite side to the nozzle surface. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the nozzle surface of the head module 6. As shown in FIG.

[0020] The head module 6 of this embodiment includes the two recording heads 3 and 4, a holding plate 61 as a head holding member that holds the recording heads 3 and 4, an apparatus main body 64, and the like.

[0021] The device main body 64 has components (flow path members, piezoelectric elements, etc.) of each recording head 3, 4 and a head drive unit arranged inside, and is provided with a connector 69a for connecting the transmission line between the head drive unit and the control unit, an ink port 69b for supplying ink, etc.

[0022] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section (cross section A-A' in Figure 9 described later) of one nozzle (the nozzle at the center in the nozzle arrangement direction) in the recording heads 3 and 4 according to this embodiment, cut along the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric element 40. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section (cross section B-B' in Figure 9 described later) of one nozzle (the nozzle at the center in the nozzle arrangement direction) in the recording heads 3 and 4 according to this embodiment, cut along the short side of the piezoelectric element 40.

[0023] The recording heads 3 and 4 according to this embodiment mainly comprise a nozzle substrate 10, an actuator substrate 20, a vibration plate 30, and piezoelectric elements 40, and are supported by a frame portion. The frame portion is a component (partition member) on which ink supply ports and engravings that become common liquid chambers are formed, and is produced by, for example, resin molding. The nozzle substrate 10 is a component on which nozzles 11 are formed. The actuator substrate 20 is a component on which engravings that become pressure chambers 22 are formed. The vibration plate 30 is a component that is displaced by the piezoelectric elements 40, which are pressure-generating elements that serve as actuator elements.

[0024] The nozzle substrate 10 is formed of a metal material, such as a Ni plating film formed by electroforming, and has a large number of nozzles 11, which are fine ejection openings for ejecting ink droplets (liquid). Each nozzle 11 is composed of a nozzle outlet portion 12 on the side from which the liquid is ejected, and a nozzle inlet portion 13 on the pressure chamber 22 side. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, each nozzle 11 is configured such that the cross-sectional area S13 of the nozzle inlet portion 13 is larger than the cross-sectional area S12 of the nozzle outlet portion 12 (a cross section perpendicular to the direction of the liquid flow path, i.e., a cross section parallel to the nozzle surface 10a). Therefore, the internal shape (inner shape) of this nozzle 11 is stepped, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0025] As long as the cross-sectional area S13 of the nozzle inlet 13 is larger than the cross-sectional area S12 of the nozzle outlet 12, other shapes such as a horn shape (which may be a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially truncated cone shape) may be used.

[0026] The nozzle surface 10a (ink ejection surface) of the nozzle substrate 10 may be provided with a water-repellent treatment layer, which is a surface treatment that has been performed to make it water-repellent. For example, a water-repellent treatment layer selected according to the ink properties may be provided, such as PTFE-Ni eutectoid plating, electrodeposition coating of fluororesin, vapor deposition coating of volatile fluororesin (such as fluorinated pitch), or baking after solvent application of silicone resin or fluororesin. This stabilizes the ink droplet shape and flight characteristics, resulting in high-quality images.

[0027] The actuator substrate 20 has pressure chambers 22 formed therein that communicate with the nozzles 11. Ink is supplied to the pressure chambers 22 from a common liquid chamber formed in the frame portion. The pressure chambers 22 formed in the actuator substrate 20 have an opening on the side opposite the nozzle substrate 10, and a vibration plate 30 is installed so as to close this opening. Therefore, the vibration plate 30 forms one wall of the pressure chambers 22.

[0028] The diaphragm 30 is formed, for example, by stacking two layers of Ni plating film using an electroforming method. Piezoelectric elements 40 are bonded to the diaphragm 30. The piezoelectric elements 40 are composed of, for example, a piezoelectric layer of lead zirconate titanate (PZT), an upper electrode (individual electrode), and a lower electrode (common electrode). Signal lines 41 for each piezoelectric element 40 are connected to the individual electrodes and connected to an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuits), and the common electrode is shared by multiple piezoelectric elements 40 and connected to the ground electrode of the FPC. A head driver, which is a head control unit, is mounted on the FPC, and this applies a predetermined drive waveform to each piezoelectric element 40.

[0029] In each of the recording heads 3 and 4, a drive voltage having a predetermined drive waveform is applied to each piezoelectric element 40 in response to an image recording signal. This causes each piezoelectric element 40 to deform, pressurizing the pressure chamber 22 via the vibration plate 30, increasing the pressure and causing ink droplets to be ejected from each nozzle 11. Thereafter, as the ejection of the ink droplets ends, the ink pressure in the pressure chamber 22 decreases, and negative pressure is generated in the pressure chamber 22 due to the inertia of the ink flow and the discharge process of the drive voltage, causing a transition to the ink filling process. At this time, ink is filled into the pressure chamber 22 from the common liquid chamber.

[0030] Next, the configuration of the nozzles 11 of the recording heads 3 and 4 in this embodiment will be described. Fig. 7(a) is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a landing position deviation that occurs in a nozzle array in which multiple nozzles 11 with a normal nozzle structure are arranged. Fig. 7(b) is a graph showing the amount of landing position deviation that occurs in each nozzle in the landing position deviation shown in Fig. 7(a) as a deviation angle (the angle between the line connecting the nozzle position and the landing position and the target direction perpendicular to the nozzle surface 10a). Fig. 8(a) is an explanatory diagram showing another example of a landing position deviation occurring in a nozzle array in which multiple nozzles 11 with a normal nozzle structure are arranged. Fig. 8(b) is a graph showing the amount of landing position deviation occurring in each nozzle in terms of deviation angle in the landing position deviation shown in Fig. 8(a).

[0031] The normal nozzle structure referred to here is one in which the nozzle inlet 13 on the pressure chamber side has a larger cross-sectional area than the nozzle outlet 12 on the side from which the liquid is ejected, and the center line O of the nozzle outlet 12 is 12 and the center line O of the nozzle inlet section 13 13 This is a configuration in which the above is consistent. The impact position deviation amount (deviation angle) shown on the vertical axis of the graphs in FIGS. 7(b) and 8(b) is the deviation amount of the multiple nozzles (also called channels ch, ch1, ch2, . . . , ch3, ch4, ch5, ch6, ch7, ch8, ch9, ch10, ch11, ch12, ch13, ch14, ch15, ch16, ch17, ch18, ch19, ch19, ch20, ch21, ch22, ch23, ch24, ch25, ch26, ch27, ch28, ch29, ch29, ch210, ch211, ch212, ch223, ch233, ch24, ch254, ch255, ch26 N-1 ,ch N The nozzle with the largest deviation angle (nozzle ch in Figure 7(b)) N , and the deviation angle of nozzle ch1 in Fig. 8(b) is shown as a relative value when the absolute value of the deviation angle of nozzle ch1 in Fig. 8(b) is set to 100%. Furthermore, the impact position deviation amount (deviation angle) shown on the vertical axis of the graphs in Fig. 7(b) and Fig. 8(b) is expressed as a negative value when the angle is shifted to the left in Fig. 7(a) and Fig. 8(a) with respect to the target direction perpendicular to the nozzle surface 10a, and a positive value when the angle is shifted to the right in Fig. 7(a) and Fig. 8(a) with respect to the target direction perpendicular to the nozzle surface 10a.

[0032] Generally, the nozzles ch1 to ch2 of the recording heads 3 and 4 N When the liquid is discharged from the nozzles ch1 to ch2 to the outer region of the nozzle surface 10a, the outer region is put into a relatively negative pressure state, and a discharge airflow is generated. NThe liquid ejected from each nozzle ch1 to ch2 is deflected by the ejection air current before it lands on the recording material P0, resulting in a deviation in the landing position. N The liquid ejected from the nozzles is deflected before it lands on the recording material P0, which can cause deviation in the landing position.

[0033] The impact position deviation caused by the influence of such air currents occurs in the nozzles located in the end regions of the nozzle row (for example, when the number of nozzles constituting the nozzle row is N=800, the nozzles ch1 to ch 10 , ch N-9 ~ch N ), the greater the influence of the airflow. Therefore, nozzles located in the end regions of the nozzle array are likely to have a large impact position deviation, as shown in Figure 7(b). Furthermore, whether the deviation angle is positive or negative depends on conditions such as the configuration of the device in which the print heads 3 and 4 are installed.

[0034] However, only the nozzles located in the end regions of the nozzle row are aligned along the center line O of the nozzle outlet 12. 12 The center line O of the nozzle inlet 13 13 The conventional configuration of offsetting the ink droplets along the nozzle row to prevent misalignment of the droplets results in a complicated head structure, which makes head manufacturing more difficult and makes it harder to improve the ejection accuracy of the entire head.

[0035] In addition, the above-mentioned air currents are not the only factors that can cause deviations in the landing positions. For example, other factors, such as manufacturing errors during head manufacturing, can cause deviations in the landing positions of the nozzles ch1 to ch2. N In some cases, the liquid ejected from the nozzles is not ejected straight in the target direction perpendicular to the nozzle face, but is ejected at an angle to the target direction, resulting in a deviation in the landing position. For this reason, as shown in Figures 7(b) and 8(b), even nozzles located near the center of the nozzle row can have a deviation in the landing position. Therefore, even if the deviation in the landing position of only the nozzles located in the end region of the nozzle row is suppressed, it may not be possible to suppress the deviation in the landing position of the entire head. Therefore, when multiple nozzles ch1 to chN There is a risk that the average value of the nozzle pitch Pn of the nozzle row in which the nozzles are arranged will differ from the average value of the dot pitch Pd (the pitch of the landing positions of the liquid ejected from the multiple nozzles 11) which should match the average value of the nozzle pitch Pn.

[0036] FIG. 9 shows the nozzles ch1 to ch4 constituting the nozzle array when viewed from the nozzle surface side of the recording heads 3 and 4 according to this embodiment. N 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the structure (positional relationship in the nozzle surface direction). FIG. FIG. 10 shows the nozzles ch1 to ch4 constituting the nozzle array when viewed from the nozzle surface side of the recording heads 3 and 4 according to this embodiment. N 10 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the structure (positional relationship in the nozzle surface direction). FIG.

[0037] In this embodiment, a plurality of nozzles ch1 to ch2 are arranged in the nozzle arrangement direction. N 5, 6, 9 and 10, the nozzle inlet 13 on the pressure chamber side has a larger cross-sectional area than the nozzle outlet 12 on the side from which the liquid is ejected. N is the center line O of the nozzle outlet 12 12 and the center line O of the nozzle inlet section 13 13 The deviation amounts L1 to L N However, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the nozzle ch at the center in the nozzle arrangement direction N / 2 From the nozzles ch1, ch2 at each end N It is structured so that it gradually gets larger towards the

[0038] In the example shown in FIG. 9, nozzles ch1 to ch2 are arranged from the center in the nozzle arrangement direction to the end on the left side of the drawing. N / 2 Regarding the center line O of the nozzle inlet portion 13, 13 With respect to the center line O of the nozzle outlet portion 12 12is shifted to the left (negative side) in the figure. Due to this shift in the center line, when the liquid in the nozzle inlet 13 is pressurized due to the pressure fluctuation in the pressure chamber caused by the piezoelectric element 40, a pressure deviation occurs in the nozzle outlet 12. As a result, N / 2 The liquid ejected from the nozzles is subjected to an ejection pressure in an oblique direction toward the end (negative side) of the nozzle arrangement direction relative to the target direction perpendicular to the nozzle surface.

[0039] In the example shown in FIG. 9, the nozzle channels from the center in the nozzle arrangement direction to the right end in the drawing are N / 2 ~ch N Regarding the center line O of the nozzle inlet portion 13, 13 With respect to the center line O of the nozzle outlet portion 12 12 is shifted to the right (plus side) in the figure. Due to this shift in the center line, when the liquid in the nozzle inlet 13 is pressurized due to the pressure fluctuation in the pressure chamber caused by the piezoelectric element 40, a pressure deviation occurs in the nozzle outlet 12. As a result, N / 2 ~ch N The liquid ejected from the nozzles is subjected to an ejection pressure in an oblique direction toward the end (positive side) of the nozzle arrangement direction relative to a target direction perpendicular to the nozzle surface.

[0040] At this time, the center line O of the nozzle inlet 13 13 and the center line O of the nozzle outlet 12 12 The greater the deviation from the target direction, the greater the pressure deviation that occurs within the nozzle outlet 12. Therefore, the direction of the ejection pressure that the liquid ejected from the nozzle experiences becomes at a greater inclination angle with respect to the target direction that is perpendicular to the nozzle face. Therefore, the closer a nozzle is to the end of the nozzle row, the greater the inclination angle of the direction of the ejection pressure that the ejected liquid experiences.

[0041] The configuration shown in Fig. 9 is suitable for use when a landing position deviation as shown in Fig. 7(a) occurs in a nozzle array in which multiple nozzles with a normal nozzle structure are arranged, i.e., when a landing position deviation occurs in the nozzles in each end region of the nozzle array, toward the center of the nozzle array direction with respect to a target direction perpendicular to the nozzle face. In other words, by applying the configuration shown in Fig. 9 when a landing position deviation as shown in Fig. 7(a) occurs, it is possible to correct the landing position deviation that occurred in the nozzles in each end region of the nozzle array.

[0042] In particular, in the head module 6 of this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, the two print heads 3, 4 are arranged so that the nozzle pitch between the end nozzles located at one end of each nozzle array of the two print heads 3, 4 is a predetermined nozzle pitch. Therefore, if the nozzles in the end regions of the nozzle array of the print heads 3, 4 are misaligned in landing positions as shown in Fig. 7(a), the dot pitch Pd' of the liquid ejected from each end nozzle between the two print heads 3, 4 becomes larger than the nozzle pitch Pn', as shown in Fig. 12, causing image quality degradation such as white streaks. When the landing position deviation as shown in Fig. 7(a) occurs, the configuration shown in Fig. 9 can be applied to suppress image quality degradation such as white streaks.

[0043] Similarly, in the example shown in FIG. 10, nozzles ch1 to ch2 from the center in the nozzle arrangement direction to the left end in the drawing N / 2 Regarding the center line O of the nozzle inlet portion 13, 13 With respect to the center line O of the nozzle outlet portion 12 12 is shifted to the right (plus side) in the figure. N / 2 The liquid ejected from the nozzle ch is subjected to an ejection pressure in a diagonal direction toward the end (positive side) of the nozzle arrangement direction with respect to the target direction perpendicular to the nozzle surface. N / 2 ~ch N Regarding the center line O of the nozzle inlet portion 13, 13 With respect to the center line O of the nozzle outlet portion 1212 is shifted to the left (minus side) in the figure. N / 2 ~ch N The liquid ejected from the nozzles is subjected to an ejection pressure in an oblique direction toward the end (negative side) of the nozzle arrangement direction relative to the target direction perpendicular to the nozzle surface.

[0044] The configuration shown in Fig. 10 is suitable for use when a landing position deviation as shown in Fig. 8(a) occurs in a nozzle array in which multiple nozzles with a normal nozzle structure are arranged, i.e., when a landing position deviation occurs in the nozzles in each end region of the nozzle array toward each end in the nozzle arrangement direction with respect to a target direction perpendicular to the nozzle face. In other words, by applying the configuration shown in Fig. 10 when a landing position deviation as shown in Fig. 8(a) occurs, it is possible to correct the landing position deviation that occurred in the nozzles in each end region of the nozzle array.

[0045] In particular, in the head module 6 of this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, the two print heads 3, 4 are arranged so that the nozzle pitch between the end nozzles located at one end of each nozzle array of the two print heads 3, 4 is a predetermined nozzle pitch. Therefore, if the nozzles in the end regions of the nozzle array of the print heads 3, 4 are misaligned in landing positions as shown in Fig. 8(a), the dot pitch Pd' of the liquid ejected from each end nozzle between the two print heads 3, 4 becomes smaller than the nozzle pitch Pn', causing image quality degradation such as black streaks. When the landing position deviation as shown in Fig. 8(a) occurs, image quality degradation such as black streaks can be suppressed by applying the configuration shown in Fig. 10.

[0046] 9 and 10 in this embodiment, all the nozzles ch1 to ch2 constituting the nozzle row N are realized in a continuous or regular configuration from the center to each end in the nozzle arrangement direction. NThis simplifies the configuration compared to conventional configurations in which only some of the nozzles have a different structure from the rest of the nozzles, making it easier to manufacture the head and to improve the ejection accuracy of the entire head.

[0047] In particular, the plurality of nozzles ch1 to ch N The center line O of the nozzle outlet 12 12 and the center line O of the nozzle inlet section 13 13 Deviation amount L1~L N If the change profile is configured to be symmetrical about the center in the nozzle arrangement direction, the configuration can be further simplified, which makes it easier to manufacture the head and further facilitates improving the ejection accuracy of the entire head.

[0048] 9 and 10 in this embodiment, the nozzles positioned in the central region in the nozzle arrangement direction are also aligned along the center line O of the nozzle inlet 13. 13 and the center line O of the nozzle outlet 12 12 9 and 10 of this embodiment may actually result in misalignment of the droplets from the nozzles located in the central region of the nozzle arrangement direction, which would otherwise not cause much deviation in the droplet landing position with a normal nozzle structure.

[0049] However, in the configuration shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 of this embodiment, the center line O of the nozzle outlet portion 12 is 12 and the center line O of the nozzle inlet section 13 13 Deviation amount L1~L N is the center nozzle ch in the nozzle arrangement direction N / 2 From the nozzles ch1, ch2 at each end N9 and 10, the pressure deviation in the nozzle outlet 12 of the nozzles located in the central region in the nozzle arrangement direction is smaller than that of the nozzles located in the end regions in the nozzle arrangement direction, and the inclination angle of the direction of the ejection pressure that the liquid ejected from the nozzles receives is smaller. Therefore, even if the configuration shown in Figures 9 and 10 of this embodiment is applied, it is possible to avoid significant deviation in the impact position of the nozzles located in the central region in the nozzle arrangement direction.

[0050] Therefore, in this embodiment, the center line O of the nozzle outlet portion 12 12 and the center line O of the nozzle inlet section 13 13 Deviation amount L1~L N By adjusting appropriately, multiple nozzles ch1 to ch N The average value of the nozzle pitch Pn and the plurality of nozzles ch1 to ch N In other words, it is possible to make the difference between the average nozzle pitch Pn and the average dot pitch Pd fall within a predetermined tolerance range.

[0051] As a specific example, the plurality of nozzles ch1 to ch N is the nozzle ch at the center of the nozzle arrangement direction N / 2 From the nozzles ch1, ch2 at each end N The deviation amount L1 to L N It is preferable that the average value of the rate of change of the deviation amounts L1 to L2 is within the range of 0.0007 μm / nozzle to 0.0012 μm / nozzle. N If the average value of the rate of change of is within this range, multiple nozzles ch1 to ch N The average value of the nozzle pitch Pn and the plurality of nozzles ch1 to ch N It is easy to make the deviation amounts L1 to L2 approximately coincide with the average value of the dot pitch Pd of the liquid ejected from the nozzles, and it is easy to keep the difference between the average value of the nozzle pitch Pn and the average value of the dot pitch Pd within a predetermined tolerance range. NThe rate of change corresponds to the slope of the graph shown in Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a graph in the example shown in Fig. 10 where the average value of the rate of change is 0.0009 [µm / nozzle].

[0052] In addition, the plurality of nozzles ch1 to ch N is the nozzle ch at the center of the nozzle arrangement direction N / 2 From the nozzles ch1, ch2 at each end N The deviation amount L1 to L N It is preferable that the range of change of the deviation amounts L1 to L2 is within the range of 0.53 μm to 0.97 μm. N If the range of change is within this range, multiple nozzles ch1 to ch N The average value of the nozzle pitch Pn and the plurality of nozzles ch1 to ch N 11, the deviation amounts L1 to L2 are easily adjusted to approximately match the average value of the dot pitch Pd of the liquid ejected from the nozzles, and the difference between the average value of the nozzle pitch Pn and the average value of the dot pitch Pd is easily adjusted to fall within a predetermined tolerance range. N The range of change is from the center in the nozzle arrangement direction to the left end in the figure for nozzles ch1 to ch N / 2 The nozzle ch from the center in the nozzle arrangement direction to the right end in the figure is about 0.32 [μm]. N / 2 ~ch N is approximately 0.4 μm.

[0053] In this embodiment, the nozzles ch1 to ch2 that make up the nozzle row N represents the plurality of nozzles ch1 to ch N The nozzle ch at the center of the nozzle arrangement direction is N / 2 From the nozzles ch1, ch2 at each end N The nozzles are configured to gradually change from the center toward the end toward the center toward the nozzles. N / 2 From the nozzles ch1, ch2 at each end NThe average value of the rate of change of the discharge angle over the nozzles ch1 to ch3 is preferably within a range of 0.06 [mdeg / nozzle] to 0.8 [mdeg / nozzle]. N The average value of the nozzle pitch Pn and the plurality of nozzles ch1 to ch N This makes it easier to make the average nozzle pitch Pn and the average dot pitch Pd of the liquid ejected from the nozzles approximately match, and makes it easier to keep the difference between the average nozzle pitch Pn and the average dot pitch Pd within a predetermined tolerance range.

[0054] FIG. 13(a) is a graph showing the amount of landing position deviation, in degrees, that occurs for each nozzle when the configuration shown in FIG. 9 is applied in a case where the landing position deviation shown in FIG. 7(a) occurs. Comparing FIG. 13(a) with FIG. 7(b), by applying the configuration shown in FIG. 9 according to this embodiment, the landing position deviation amount (deviation angle) of the nozzles ch1 to ch2 in the entire nozzle row is N Over the course of the study, we have been able to keep the results within a range of approximately 60%.

[0055] Figure 13(b) is a graph showing the amount of landing position deviation that occurs in each nozzle, in terms of deviation angle, when the configuration shown in Figure 10 is applied in a case where landing position deviation such as that shown in Figure 8(a) occurs. Comparing FIG. 13(b) with FIG. 8(b), it can be seen that by applying the configuration shown in FIG. 10 according to this embodiment, the landing position deviation amount (deviation angle) of the nozzles ch1 to ch2 in the entire nozzle row is N Over the course of the year, we have been able to keep the results within a range of approximately 50%.

[0056] The pressure deviation in the nozzle outlet 12 for applying an oblique discharge pressure to the liquid discharged from the nozzle is determined by the distance from the center line O of the nozzle inlet 13. 13 and the center line O of the nozzle outlet 12 12 14, the nozzles ch1 to ch2 constituting the nozzle row can be varied by varying the difference in cross-sectional area between the nozzle inlet 13 and the nozzle outlet 12, as well as the amount of deviation between the nozzles ch1 to ch2. Nis the center line O of the nozzle outlet 12 12 and the center line O of the nozzle inlet section 13 13 The deviation amounts L1 to L N is the center nozzle in the nozzle arrangement direction N / 2 From the nozzles ch1, ch2 at each end N In addition to the configuration in which the difference in cross-sectional area between the nozzle inlet portion 13 and the nozzle outlet portion 12 is gradually increased toward the nozzle ch N / 2 From the nozzles ch1, ch2 at each end N It may be configured so that the value gradually increases toward .

[0057] With this configuration, it is possible to correct the landing position deviation of nozzles located in the end regions in the nozzle arrangement direction, which are prone to large landing position deviation due to the influence of air currents, to a greater extent than that of nozzles located in the central region in the nozzle arrangement direction. N The average value of the nozzle pitch Pn and the plurality of nozzles ch1 to ch N In other words, it becomes easy to keep the difference between the average nozzle pitch Pn and the average dot pitch Pd within a predetermined tolerance range.

[0058] Moreover, since this configuration is realized in a continuous or regular manner from the center to each end in the nozzle arrangement direction, the configuration can be simplified compared to conventional configurations, making it easier to manufacture the head and to improve the ejection accuracy of the entire head.

[0059] Next, another example of the liquid ejecting device according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 15 is an explanatory plan view of the main part of the device, and FIG. 16 is an explanatory side view of the main part of the device. This device is a serial type device, and a carriage 403 is moved back and forth in the main scanning direction by a main scanning movement mechanism 493. The main scanning movement mechanism 493 includes a guide member 401, a main scanning motor 405, a timing belt 408, etc. The guide member 401 is hung between left and right side plates 491A and 491B, and movably holds the carriage 403. The main scanning motor 405 then moves the carriage 403 back and forth in the main scanning direction via a timing belt 408 hung between a drive pulley 406 and a driven pulley 407.

[0060] This carriage 403 is equipped with a liquid ejection unit 440 that integrates a head module 404 and a head tank 441 according to the present invention. Similar to the head unit 2 in the above-described embodiment, the head module 404 of the liquid ejection unit 440 is equipped with a recording unit that ejects liquid of each color, for example, yellow (Y), cyan (C), magenta (M), and black (K). Furthermore, similar to the recording units 2K, 2C, 2M, and 2Y in the above-described embodiment, the recording units for each color in the head module 404 are configured with print heads 3 and 4, each equipped with a nozzle array consisting of a plurality of nozzles, arranged in a staggered pattern, with the nozzle array direction aligned along the sub-scanning direction (head longitudinal direction) that is perpendicular to the main scanning direction, and the ejection direction facing downward.

[0061] The liquid stored in the liquid cartridge 450 is supplied to the head tank 441 by a supply mechanism 494 for supplying the liquid stored outside the head module 404 to the head module 404 .

[0062] The supply mechanism 494 is composed of a cartridge holder 451 which is a filling section to which the liquid cartridge 450 is attached, a tube 456, a liquid delivery unit 452 including a liquid delivery pump, etc. The liquid cartridge 450 is detachably attached to the cartridge holder 451. The liquid is delivered from the liquid cartridge 450 to the head tank 441 by the liquid delivery unit 452 via the tube 456.

[0063] This device is provided with a transport mechanism 495 for transporting paper 410. The transport mechanism 495 includes a transport belt 412, which is a transport means, and a sub-scanning motor 416 for driving the transport belt 412.

[0064] The conveyor belt 412 attracts the paper 410 and conveys it at a position facing the head module 404. The conveyor belt 412 is an endless belt that is stretched between a conveyor roller 413 and a tension roller 414. The paper can be attracted by electrostatic attraction or air suction.

[0065] The conveyor belt 412 moves in a circular motion in the sub-scanning direction when the conveyor roller 413 is rotationally driven by a sub-scanning motor 416 via a timing belt 417 and a timing pulley 418 .

[0066] Furthermore, a maintenance and recovery mechanism 420 for performing maintenance and recovery of the head module 404 is arranged on one side of the carriage 403 in the main scanning direction, beside the conveyor belt 412 .

[0067] The maintenance and recovery mechanism 420 is made up of, for example, a cap member 421 that caps the nozzle surface (the surface on which the nozzles are formed) of the head module 404, a wiper member 422 that wipes the nozzle surface, and the like.

[0068] The main scanning movement mechanism 493, the supply mechanism 494, the maintenance and recovery mechanism 420, and the transport mechanism 495 are attached to a housing including side plates 491A and 491B and a back plate 491C.

[0069] In this device configured as described above, a sheet of paper 410 is fed onto and attracted to the conveyor belt 412, and the sheet of paper 410 is conveyed in the sub-scanning direction by the circular movement of the conveyor belt 412.

[0070] Therefore, by driving the head module 404 in accordance with an image signal while moving the carriage 403 in the main scanning direction, liquid is ejected onto the stationary paper 410 to form an image.

[0071] As described above, this device is equipped with the liquid ejection head according to the present invention, and therefore can stably form high-quality images.

[0072] Next, another example of the liquid discharge unit according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 17 is an explanatory plan view of the main part of the unit.

[0073] This liquid ejection unit is composed of the components that make up the device that ejects the liquid, including a housing portion consisting of side plates 491A, 491B and a back plate 491C, a main scanning movement mechanism 493, a carriage 403, and a head module 404.

[0074] It is also possible to configure a liquid discharge unit in which at least one of the maintenance and recovery mechanism 420 and the supply mechanism 494 described above is further attached to, for example, the side plate 491B of this liquid discharge unit.

[0075] Next, still another example of the liquid discharge unit according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 18 is an explanatory front view of the unit.

[0076] This liquid ejection unit is composed of a head module 404 to which a flow path part 444 is attached, and a tube 456 connected to the flow path part 444 .

[0077] The flow path part 444 is disposed inside the cover 442. A head tank 441 may be included instead of the flow path part 444. A connector 443 for electrically connecting the flow path part 444 to the head module 404 is provided on the upper part of the flow path part 444.

[0078] In this application, a "liquid ejection device" refers to a device that includes a liquid ejection head, a head module, or a liquid ejection unit, and ejects liquid by driving the liquid ejection head. Liquid ejection devices include not only devices that can eject liquid onto objects to which the liquid can adhere, but also devices that eject liquid into air or liquid.

[0079] This "liquid ejecting device" can also include means for feeding, transporting, and discharging items onto which liquid can be attached, as well as pre-processing devices and post-processing devices.

[0080] For example, examples of "liquid ejecting devices" include image forming devices that eject ink to form images on paper, and three-dimensional modeling devices (three-dimensional modeling devices) that eject modeling liquid onto a powder layer formed from layers of powder in order to create a three-dimensional object (a three-dimensional model).

[0081] Furthermore, the term "liquid ejection device" is not limited to devices that use ejected liquid to visualize meaningful images such as letters and figures. For example, it also includes devices that form patterns that have no meaning in themselves, and devices that create three-dimensional images.

[0082] The term "something to which a liquid can adhere" means something to which a liquid can adhere at least temporarily, something to which the liquid adheres and sticks, something to which the liquid adheres and penetrates, etc. Specific examples include media such as paper, recording paper, film, cloth, and other recording materials, electronic substrates, electronic components such as piezoelectric elements, powder layers, organ models, and test cells, and unless otherwise specified, includes all things to which a liquid can adhere.

[0083] The material of the "substance to which a liquid can adhere" may be any material to which a liquid can adhere, even temporarily, such as paper, thread, fiber, fabric, leather, metal, plastic, glass, wood, ceramics, building materials such as wallpaper and flooring, and textiles for clothing.

[0084] "Liquid" also includes ink, processing liquid, DNA sample, resist, pattern material, binder, modeling liquid, or solutions and dispersions containing amino acids, proteins, calcium, and the like.

[0085] Furthermore, the "liquid ejection device" may be a device in which a liquid ejection head and an object onto which liquid can be attached move relatively, but is not limited to this. Specific examples include a serial type device in which a liquid ejection head moves, and a line type device in which a liquid ejection head does not move.

[0086] Other examples of "liquid ejecting devices" include a treatment liquid application device that ejects a treatment liquid onto paper to apply the treatment liquid to the surface of the paper for purposes such as modifying the surface of the paper, and an injection granulation device that ejects a composition liquid in which raw materials are dispersed through a nozzle to granulate fine particles of the raw materials.

[0087] A "liquid ejection unit" is a collection of components related to the ejection of liquid, integrating functional parts and mechanisms with a liquid ejection head. For example, a "liquid ejection unit" includes a combination of a liquid ejection head and at least one of the following components: a head tank, a carriage, a supply mechanism, a maintenance and recovery mechanism, and a main scanning movement mechanism.

[0088] Here, "integrated" includes, for example, a liquid ejection head and a functional part or mechanism that are fixed to each other by fastening, bonding, engaging, etc., or one that is held movably relative to the other. The liquid ejection head, functional part, or mechanism may also be configured to be detachable from each other.

[0089] For example, some liquid ejection units have a liquid ejection head and a head tank integrated together, such as liquid ejection unit 440 shown in Fig. 16. Other liquid ejection units have a liquid ejection head and a head tank integrated together by being connected to each other by a tube or the like. Here, a unit including a filter can be added between the head tank and the liquid ejection head of these liquid ejection units.

[0090] Furthermore, there is a liquid ejection unit in which the liquid ejection head and the carriage are integrated.

[0091] In some liquid ejection units, the liquid ejection head is movably held by a guide member that constitutes part of the scanning movement mechanism, and the liquid ejection head and the scanning movement mechanism are integrated together. In other liquid ejection units, as shown in Figure 17, the liquid ejection head, carriage, and main scanning movement mechanism are integrated together.

[0092] Furthermore, there is a liquid ejection unit in which a cap member, which is part of the maintenance and recovery mechanism, is fixed to a carriage on which a liquid ejection head is attached, thereby integrating the liquid ejection head, carriage, and maintenance and recovery mechanism.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 18, there is also a liquid ejection unit in which a tube is connected to a liquid ejection head to which a head tank or flow path components are attached, and the liquid ejection head and a supply mechanism are integrated.

[0094] The main scanning movement mechanism includes the guide member alone, and the supply mechanism includes the tube alone and the loading unit alone.

[0095] Furthermore, the actuator used in the "liquid ejection head" is not limited. For example, in addition to the piezoelectric element (which may use a laminated piezoelectric element) as described in the above embodiment, a thermal actuator using an electrothermal conversion element such as a heating resistor, or an electrostatic actuator consisting of a vibration plate and an opposing electrode may also be used.

[0096] In addition, in the present application, the terms image formation, recording, printing, copying, printing, modeling, etc. are all synonymous.

[0097] Finally, the above-described embodiments are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. These novel embodiments may be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Such embodiments and modifications are intended to fall within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the claims and their equivalents.

[0098] The above description is merely an example, and each of the following aspects provides unique effects. [First aspect] In the first mode, a plurality of nozzles 11, ch1 to ch2, arranged in a predetermined arrangement direction (nozzle row direction) are N a plurality of pressure chambers 22 communicating with the plurality of nozzles, a vibration plate 30 constituting the walls of the plurality of pressure chambers, and an actuator element (for example, a piezoelectric element 40) for driving the vibration plate, wherein the nozzles have a nozzle inlet 13 on the pressure chamber side that is larger in cross-sectional area than a nozzle outlet 12 on the side from which liquid is ejected, and the plurality of nozzles ch1 to ch N is a distance between the center line O of the nozzle outlet portion so that the average value of the nozzle pitch Pn in the arrangement direction and the average value of the dot pitch Pd of the liquid ejected from the plurality of nozzles are approximately equal. 12 and the center line O of the nozzle inlet 13 Deviation amount L1~L N is the central nozzle ch in the arrangement direction N / 2 From the nozzles ch1, ch2 at each end N The present invention is characterized in that the size of the slit is gradually increased toward the slit. In conventional liquid ejection heads, in order to prevent misalignment of the landing position, the center line of the nozzle inlet relative to the center line of the nozzle outlet is offset toward the end of the nozzle row for only 10 nozzles arranged in the end region of the nozzle row extending in the direction in which the nozzles are arranged. As a result, it is necessary to design only some of the nozzles (only these 10 nozzles) of the multiple nozzles that make up the nozzle row to have a different configuration from the remaining nozzles, which complicates the head structure. A complex head structure can make head manufacturing difficult, and the more difficult it is to manufacture the head, the more difficult it becomes to improve the ejection accuracy of the entire head. In addition, impact position deviations occur due to the influence of not only the ejection airflow but also other airflows, such as the transport airflow caused by the transport of the recording medium on which the ejected liquid lands. Impact position deviations can also occur due to factors such as manufacturing errors during head manufacturing. Therefore, even if impact position deviations are suppressed for only the nozzles located in the end regions of the nozzle array, it may not be possible to suppress impact position deviations for the entire head. As a result, there is a risk of a large deviation between the average nozzle pitch in the arrangement direction of the multiple nozzles and the average dot pitch (the pitch of the impact positions of the liquid ejected from the multiple nozzles) that should match this average nozzle pitch. In this aspect, the multiple nozzles arranged in the arrangement direction have a nozzle inlet on the pressure chamber side that has a larger cross-sectional area than the nozzle outlet on the side from which liquid is ejected. The deviation between the center line of the nozzle outlet and the center line of the nozzle inlet gradually increases from the central nozzle toward the nozzles at each end in the arrangement direction. This configuration can be realized for all of the multiple nozzles in the arrangement direction, with a continuous or regular configuration from the center toward each end in the arrangement direction. Therefore, the configuration can be simplified compared to when only some of the multiple nozzles have a different configuration from the remaining nozzles. As a result, head manufacturing is facilitated, and the ejection accuracy of the entire head can be easily improved. Furthermore, in this aspect, the average nozzle pitch in the arrangement direction in which the multiple nozzles are arranged is made to approximately match the average dot pitch of the liquid ejected from the multiple nozzles, so it is possible to suppress landing position deviations across the entire head more effectively than in the past. In particular, among the landing position deviations that occur due to various influences, there is one that tends to gradually increase from the center toward the ends in the arrangement direction, and it is possible to suppress such landing position deviations across the entire head.

[0099] [Second mode] The second aspect is characterized in that, in the first aspect, the plurality of nozzles are configured so that the average value of the rate of change of the amount of deviation from the central nozzle to each end nozzle is within the range of 0.0007 [μm / nozzle] or more and 0.0012 [μm / nozzle] or less. This makes it easy to roughly match the average nozzle pitch in the arrangement direction in which multiple nozzles are arranged with the average dot pitch of the liquid ejected from the multiple nozzles, and to keep the difference between the average nozzle pitch and the average dot pitch within a specified tolerance range.

[0100] [Third aspect] A third aspect is characterized in that, in the first or second aspect, the plurality of nozzles are configured so that the range of change in the amount of deviation from the central nozzle to each of the end nozzles is within a range of 0.53 μm or more and 0.97 μm or less. This makes it easy to roughly match the average nozzle pitch in the arrangement direction in which multiple nozzles are arranged with the average dot pitch of the liquid ejected from the multiple nozzles, and to keep the difference between the average nozzle pitch and the average dot pitch within a specified tolerance range.

[0101] [Fourth aspect] A fourth aspect is characterized in that, in any of the first to third aspects, the plurality of nozzles are configured so that the change profile of the deviation amount is symmetrical with respect to the center of the arrangement direction. This allows the configuration of the liquid ejection head to be further simplified, making head manufacturing even easier and making it even easier to improve the ejection accuracy of the entire head.

[0102] [Fifth mode] A fifth aspect is any of the first to fourth aspects, characterized in that the plurality of nozzles are configured such that the ejection angle of the liquid ejected from the plurality of nozzles gradually changes from the central nozzle in the arrangement direction toward the end or center toward the nozzles at each end, and that the average rate of change of the ejection angle from the central nozzle to the nozzles at each end is within the range of 0.06 [mdeg / nozzle] or more and 0.8 [mdeg / nozzle] or less. This makes it easy to roughly match the average nozzle pitch in the arrangement direction in which multiple nozzles are arranged with the average dot pitch of the liquid ejected from the multiple nozzles, and to keep the difference between the average nozzle pitch and the average dot pitch within a specified tolerance range.

[0103] [Sixth aspect] A sixth aspect is a head module, characterized in that it comprises one or more liquid ejection heads according to any one of the first to fifth aspects. It is possible to provide a head module that can simplify the configuration for correcting landing position deviation, in which liquid ejected from a nozzle deviates from a target landing position.

[0104] [Seventh aspect] A seventh aspect is a liquid ejection unit characterized by comprising the liquid ejection head according to any one of the first to fifth aspects or the head module according to the sixth aspect. It is possible to provide a liquid ejection unit that can simplify the configuration for correcting landing position deviation, in which liquid ejected from a nozzle deviates from a target landing position.

[0105] [Eighth aspect] The eighth aspect is characterized in that, in the seventh aspect, the liquid ejection head or the head module is integrated with at least one of a head tank that stores liquid to be supplied to the liquid ejection head, a carriage that mounts the liquid ejection head, a supply mechanism that supplies liquid to the liquid ejection head, a maintenance and recovery mechanism that maintains and recovers the liquid ejection head, and a main scanning movement mechanism that moves the liquid ejection head in the main scanning direction. It is possible to provide a liquid ejection unit that can simplify the configuration for correcting landing position deviation, in which liquid ejected from a nozzle deviates from a target landing position.

[0106] [Ninth aspect] A ninth aspect is a device for ejecting liquid, characterized in that it comprises a liquid ejection head according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, a head module according to the sixth aspect, or a liquid ejection unit according to the seventh or eighth aspect. It is possible to provide a liquid ejecting device that can simplify the configuration for correcting landing position deviation, in which liquid ejected from a nozzle deviates from a target landing position. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 2: Head unit 3,4: Recording head 5: Nozzle 6: Head module 10: Nozzle substrate 10a: Nozzle surface 11: Nozzle 12: Nozzle outlet 13: Nozzle inlet 20: Actuator board 22: Pressure chamber 30: Vibration plate 40: Piezoelectric element 41: Signal line 403: Carriage 404: Head module 410: Paper 420: Maintenance and recovery mechanism 440: Liquid dispensing unit 450: Liquid cartridge L1~L N : Amount of deviation O 12 :center line O 13 :center line P0: Recording material Pd, Pd': dot pitch Pn, Pn': nozzle pitch ch1~ch N :channel [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0108] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-44960

Claims

1. a plurality of nozzles arranged in a predetermined arrangement direction; a plurality of pressure chambers respectively communicating with the plurality of nozzles; a diaphragm that constitutes a wall portion of the plurality of pressure chambers; an actuator element that drives the vibration plate, the nozzle has a cross-sectional area at a nozzle inlet on the pressure chamber side that is larger than a cross-sectional area at a nozzle outlet on the side from which liquid is ejected, A liquid ejection head characterized in that the plurality of nozzles are configured so that the amount of deviation between the center line of the nozzle outlet portion and the center line of the nozzle inlet portion gradually increases from the central nozzle in the arrangement direction toward the nozzles at each end, so that the average nozzle pitch in the arrangement direction approximately matches the average dot pitch of the liquid ejected from the plurality of nozzles.

2. 2. The liquid ejection head according to claim 1, A liquid ejection head characterized in that the multiple nozzles are configured so that the average value of the rate of change of the amount of deviation from the central nozzle to each end nozzle is within the range of 0.0007 [μm / nozzle] or more and 0.0012 [μm / nozzle] or less.

3. 3. The liquid ejection head according to claim 1, A liquid ejection head characterized in that the plurality of nozzles are configured so that the range of change in the amount of deviation from the central nozzle to each of the end nozzles is within a range of 0.53 μm or more and 0.97 μm or less.

4. 3. The liquid ejection head according to claim 1, The liquid ejection head is characterized in that the plurality of nozzles are configured so that the profile of change in the amount of deviation is symmetrical with respect to the center of the arrangement direction.

5. 3. The liquid ejection head according to claim 1, The liquid ejection head is characterized in that the plurality of nozzles are configured such that the ejection angle of the liquid ejected from the plurality of nozzles gradually changes from a central nozzle in the arrangement direction toward the nozzles at each end, toward the end or the center, and the average rate of change of the ejection angle from the central nozzle to the nozzles at each end is within the range of 0.06 [mdeg / nozzle] or more and 0.8 [mdeg / nozzle] or less.

6. A head module comprising one or more liquid ejection heads according to claim 1.

7. A liquid ejection unit comprising the liquid ejection head according to claim 1 or the head module according to claim 6.

8. The liquid ejection unit according to claim 7, A liquid ejection unit characterized by integrating the liquid ejection head or the head module with at least one of a head tank that stores liquid to be supplied to the liquid ejection head, a carriage that mounts the liquid ejection head, a supply mechanism that supplies liquid to the liquid ejection head, a maintenance and recovery mechanism that maintains and recovers the liquid ejection head, and a main scanning movement mechanism that moves the liquid ejection head in the main scanning direction.

9. 8. A liquid ejection device comprising: a liquid ejection head according to claim 1; a head module according to claim 6; or a liquid ejection unit according to claim 7.

Images