liquid container

Abstract

To provide a liquid container that can reduce the risk of load being placed on the discharge member. [Solution] The liquid container 21 is a liquid container that supplies liquid to a printing device by being attached to the printing device, and comprises a storage bag 22 for storing liquid and a discharge part 32 attached to the storage bag, the discharge part having a connecting member 37 connected to the printing device and a discharge member 39 extending from the connecting member into the storage bag, the storage bag having a front portion 25 and a back portion positioned to sandwich the discharge member, a peripheral portion 27 including the edge of the front portion and the edge of the back portion, and a sealing portion 50 which is different from the peripheral portion and to which the front portion and the back portion are bonded together.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid container.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a liquid container to be attached to a printing device. The liquid container includes a storage bag for storing a liquid and a lead-out portion attached to the storage bag. The lead-out portion has a connection member connected to the printing device and a lead-out member extending from the connection body into the storage bag. The lead-out member facilitates the derivation of the liquid from the storage bag.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In such a liquid container, during transportation, storage, etc., as the container takes various positions, the liquid may move within the storage bag. When the liquid moves within the storage bag, the storage bag may locally bulge or shrink. When the storage bag locally shrinks, there is a risk that the lead-out member may be loaded by being pressed by the shrunk storage bag.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A liquid container that solves the above problems is a liquid container that supplies liquid to a printing device by being attached to the printing device, and comprises a container bag for containing liquid and a discharge part attached to the container bag, wherein the discharge part has a connecting member connected to the printing device and a discharge member extending from the connecting member into the container bag, and the container bag has a front portion and a back portion located so as to sandwich the discharge member, a peripheral portion including the edge of the front portion and the edge of the back portion, and a sealing portion which is different from the peripheral portion and to which the front portion and the back portion are bonded together. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of a printing apparatus into which a liquid container is fitted. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a liquid container. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the outlet and storage bag. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows the spacer and storage bag. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a comparative example showing localized swelling of the containment bag. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a plan view showing the liquid container of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the expansion of the storage bag in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a plan view showing the liquid container of the second embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the expansion of the storage bag in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a plan view showing the liquid container of the third embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows the expansion of the storage bag in the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The following describes an example of a liquid container with reference to the diagram. The liquid container is configured to be attached to a printing device. The liquid container is configured to supply liquid to the printing device when attached to it. The printing device is, for example, an inkjet printer that prints images such as characters and photographs by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper or cloth.

[0008] <Printing device> First, let me explain the printing equipment. As shown in Figure 1, the printing apparatus 11 includes a printing unit 12. The printing unit 12 is configured to print an image onto a medium 99. The printing unit 12 prints an image onto the medium 99 by dispensing liquid onto the medium 99.

[0009] The printing unit 12 has a head 13. The head 13 is configured to eject liquid. The head 13 has a nozzle surface 15 from which one or more nozzles 14 open. The nozzle surface 15 faces the medium 99. The head 13 ejects liquid from the nozzles 14.

[0010] The printing unit 12 may have a carriage 16. The carriage 16 mounts a head 13. The carriage 16 is configured to scan across the medium 99. This causes the head 13 to eject liquid across the width of the medium 99. In this case, the head 13 is a serial head that scans across the medium 99. The head 13 may also be a line head capable of ejecting liquid simultaneously across the entire width of the medium 99.

[0011] The printing apparatus 11 includes a supply passage 17. The supply passage 17 is configured for the flow of liquid. The supply passage 17 is connected to the printing unit 12. The supply passage 17 is a flow path that supplies liquid to the printing unit 12.

[0012] The printing device 11 includes a mounting portion 18. The mounting portion 18 is configured such that the liquid container 21 is mounted thereon. The mounting portion 18 is connected to the supply path 17. When the liquid container 21 is mounted on the mounting portion 18, liquid is supplied from the liquid container 21 to the printing portion 12 through the supply path 17. The mounting portion 18 has a supply needle 19. The supply needle 19 is inserted into the liquid container 21. Specifically, when the liquid container 21 is mounted on the mounting portion 18, the supply needle 19 is inserted into the liquid container 21. Thereby, liquid is led out from the liquid container 21.

[0013] <Liquid container> Next, the liquid container 21 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the liquid container 21 has a storage bag 22. The storage bag 22 is configured to store liquid. The storage bag 22 has flexibility. Therefore, the storage bag 22 expands and contracts.

[0014] The storage bag 22 is composed of one or more films. The storage bag 22 is formed, for example, by adhering a plurality of films to each other. In one example, the storage bag 22 is formed by adhering two films to each other. The storage bag 22 is formed by adhering the edges of two films to each other. The storage bag 22 is formed, for example, by heat-sealing the edges of two films. The storage bag 22 may be formed, for example, by welding two films by ultrasonic waves.

[0015] The storage bag 22 may be a pillow-type bag, a pouch-type bag, or a gusset-type bag. In one example, the storage bag 22 is a pillow-type bag. Therefore, in one example, the storage bag 22 does not have a gusset. The storage bag 22 may have a gusset.

[0016] The storage bag 22 has a plurality of surfaces. The storage bag 22 has a front surface 23 and a back surface 24. The front surface 23 and the back surface 24 are surfaces facing opposite to each other. The front surface 23 and the back surface 24 are, for example, the surfaces with relatively large areas among the surfaces of the storage bag 22. In one example, when the liquid container 21 is attached to the printing device 11, the front surface 23 and the back surface 24 are arranged vertically. When the liquid container 21 is attached to the printing device 11, the front surface 23 faces upward. When the liquid container 21 is attached to the printing device 11, the back surface 24 faces downward. In addition to the front surface 23 and the back surface 24, the storage bag 22 may have a bottom surface, side surfaces, and the like.

[0017] The storage bag 22 has a front portion 25 and a back portion 26. The front portion 25 and the back portion 26 are positioned to face each other. The front portion 25 is a portion that constitutes the front surface 23. The back portion 26 is a portion that constitutes the back surface 24. The storage bag 22 expands when the distance between the front portion 25 and the back portion 26 increases. The storage bag 22 shrinks when the distance between the front portion 25 and the back portion 26 decreases.

[0018] In addition to the front portion 25 and the back portion 26, the storage bag 22 may have a portion that constitutes the bottom surface, a portion that constitutes the side surface, and the like. The storage bag 22 may have, for example, a flange portion that constitutes a flange. In this case, the flange portion constitutes the bottom surface, side surface, and the like of the storage bag 22.

[0019] The front portion 25 and the back portion 26 may each be composed of a single film. The storage bag 22 may be formed by adhering the film constituting the front portion 25 and the film constituting the back portion 26 to each other. The front portion 25 and the back portion 26 may each be composed of a plurality of films. The front portion 2� and the back portion 26 may be adhered via a film that constitutes a flange portion. The front portion 25 and the back portion 26 are not limited to being adhered to each other and may be continuous with each other.

[0020] The storage bag 22 is rectangular when viewed from above. Viewing the storage bag 22 from above means viewing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface 23 or back surface 24. In one example, the front portion 25 and the back portion 26 are rectangular when the storage bag 22 is viewed from above.

[0021] The storage bag 22 has a peripheral portion 27. The peripheral portion 27 is the part that constitutes the edge of the storage bag 22. The peripheral portion 27 includes the edge of the front portion 25. The peripheral portion 27 includes the edge of the back portion 26. The peripheral portion 27 is the part that connects the front portion 25 and the back portion 26 to each other. In one example, since the front portion 25 and the back portion 26 are directly connected, the peripheral portion 27 is the part where the edges of the front portion 25 and the back portion 26 are bonded to each other. If the front portion 25 and the back portion 26 are connected via a gusset portion, the peripheral portion 27 includes the gusset portion.

[0022] The peripheral portion 27 may include a tip portion 28 and a base portion 29. The tip portion 28 is the portion of the peripheral portion 27 that approaches the mounting portion 18 when the liquid container 21 is mounted on the printing device 11. The base portion 29 is the portion of the peripheral portion 27 located opposite the tip portion 28. When the liquid container 21 is mounted on the printing device 11, the base portion 29 is the portion of the peripheral portion 27 that is at a greater distance from the mounting portion 18 than the distance between the mounting portion 18 and the tip portion 28.

[0023] The peripheral portion 27 may include a first end portion 30 and a second end portion 31. The first end portion 30 and the second end portion 31 are parts of the peripheral portion 27 that connect to the tip portion 28 and the base portion 29. The first end portion 30 and the second end portion 31 are parts of the peripheral portion 27 that are opposite each other.

[0024] The liquid container 21 includes a discharge section 32. The discharge section 32 is configured to discharge liquid from the container bag 22. The discharge section 32 is attached to the container bag 22. The discharge section 32 is attached to the peripheral portion 27. More specifically, the discharge section 32 is attached to the tip portion 28. The discharge section 32 communicates with the inside of the container bag 22. Liquid is discharged from the container bag 22 through the discharge section 32.

[0025] The discharge section 32 is configured to be attached to the mounting section 18. The discharge section 32 is configured to allow the supply needle 19 to be inserted. When the supply needle 19 is inserted into the discharge section 32, the liquid container 21 is attached to the printing device 11.

[0026] The discharge portion 32 is configured to discharge liquid from the storage bag 22 via its peripheral portion 27. More specifically, the discharge portion 32 is configured to discharge liquid from the storage bag 22 via its tip portion 28. The discharge portion 32 passes through the inside and outside of the storage bag 22 via its tip portion 28.

[0027] The lead-out section 32 may have an outer casing member 33. The outer casing member 33 is a component that constitutes the outer casing of the lead-out section 32. The outer casing member 33 is attached to the tip portion 28. An insertion hole 34 is opened in the outer casing member 33. The lead-out section 32 is attached to the mounting portion 18 by inserting the supply needle 19 into the insertion hole 34.

[0028] The outlet portion 32 may have a handle member 35. The handle member 35 is attached to the exterior member 33. The handle member 35 is attached, for example, so as to rotate relative to the exterior member 33. The handle member 35 makes it easier for the user to carry the liquid container 21. The handle member 35 makes it easier for the user to attach the liquid container 21 to the mounting portion 18.

[0029] The output section 32 may have a circuit board 36. The circuit board 36 is attached to the exterior member 33. The circuit board 36 stores the type of liquid contained in the liquid container 21, the remaining amount, etc. The circuit board 36 is electrically connected to the mounting section 18 when the supply needle 19 is inserted into the insertion hole 34. This electrically connects the printing device 11 to the liquid container 21. The printing device 11 may write the amount of liquid consumed to the circuit board 36.

[0030] As shown in Figure 3, the lead-out section 32 has a connecting member 37. The connecting member 37 is a member that is connected to the printing device 11. The connecting member 37 is a member that is connected to the mounting section 18. The connecting member 37 is a member into which the supply needle 19 is inserted.

[0031] The connecting member 37 is attached to the storage bag 22. The connecting member 37 is attached to the peripheral portion 27. The connecting member 37 is attached to the tip portion 28. The connecting member 37 is positioned so as to be sandwiched between the front portion 25 and the back portion 26. More specifically, the connecting member 37 is positioned so as to be sandwiched between the edge of the front portion 25 and the edge of the back portion 26. The connecting member 37 is, for example, bonded to the front portion 25 and the back portion 26. In one example, the connecting member 37 is heat-welded to the front portion 25 and the back portion 26.

[0032] The connecting member 37 is covered by the outer casing member 33. More specifically, the connecting member 37 is covered by the outer casing member 33 so as to be exposed through the insertion hole 34. The supply needle 19 is inserted into the connecting member 37 through the insertion hole 34. The connecting member 37 has an insertion tube 38. The insertion tube 38 is the tube into which the supply needle 19 is inserted. As the supply needle 19 is inserted into the insertion hole 34, the supply needle 19 is inserted into the insertion tube 38. As the supply needle 19 is inserted into the insertion tube 38, liquid is drawn out from the containment bag 22.

[0033] The discharge section 32 has a discharge member 39. The discharge member 39 is a member that discharges liquid from the storage bag 22 to the connecting member 37. The discharge member 39 is connected to the connecting member 37. The discharge member 39 extends from the connecting member 37 into the storage bag 22. The discharge member 39 extends between the front portion 25 and the back portion 26. That is, the discharge member 39 is positioned so as to be sandwiched between the front portion 25 and the back portion 26.

[0034] The discharge member 39 may extend from the connecting member 37 to the center of the storage bag 22 when the storage bag 22 is viewed from above. In this case, the liquid will be more easily discharged from the storage bag 22. If the liquid container 21 does not have a discharge member 39, the liquid located near the connecting member 37 in the storage bag 22 will be preferentially discharged. As a result, the liquid located further away from the connecting member 37 in the storage bag 22 may be difficult to discharge.

[0035] The lead member 39 extends from the connecting member 37 along the first virtual axis L1. The lead member 39 is a long member that extends along the first virtual axis L1. The first virtual axis L1 is, for example, a virtual axis that passes through the insertion tube 38. In one example, the first virtual axis L1 is parallel to the first end portion 30 and the second end portion 31.

[0036] The outlet member 39 has one or more connecting pipes 40. In one example, the outlet member 39 has two connecting pipes 40. The connecting pipes 40 are connected to the connecting member 37. The connecting pipes 40 extend from the connecting member 37. The connecting pipes 40 extend from the connecting member 37 along the first virtual axis L1. The connecting pipes 40 are connected to the insertion pipe 38. The connecting pipes 40 constitute a flow path through which liquid flows. The connecting pipes 40 are, for example, flexible tubes. The connecting pipes 40 may also be rigid pipes.

[0037] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the outlet member 39 has a spacer 41. The spacer 41 is connected to a connecting pipe 40. In one example, the spacer 41 is connected to two connecting pipes 40. One or more outlets 42 open in the spacer 41. In one example, two outlets 42 open in the spacer 41. The outlets 42 are openings through which liquid flows into the spacer 41. The liquid flows from the spacer 41 to the connecting pipe 40 through the outlets 42.

[0038] The two outlets 42 are arranged vertically when the liquid container 21 is attached to the mounting section 18. Therefore, the liquid located in the upper part of the container bag 22 and the liquid located in the lower part are discharged through the two outlets 42, respectively. The two outlets 42 allow for the uniform discharge of the liquid, from which the components have settled.

[0039] The spacer 41 may be located at the center of the storage bag 22 when viewed from above. The spacer 41 is a component that secures space within the storage bag 22. In one example, the spacer 41 prevents the front portion 25 and the back portion 26 from being in close contact at the center of the storage bag 22. When the amount of liquid remaining in the liquid container 21 decreases, the storage bag 22 shrinks, making it difficult to dispense the liquid. In contrast, the spacer 41 secures space within the storage bag 22, allowing the liquid to be dispensed smoothly even when the amount of liquid remaining is low.

[0040] As shown in Figure 3, the lead member 39 may have a connecting member 43. The connecting member 43 is connected to the connecting member 37. The connecting member 43 extends from the connecting member 37. The connecting member 43 extends along the first virtual axis L1. The connecting member 43 is connected to the spacer 41. The connecting member 43 is a member that connects the connecting member 37 and the spacer 41. The connecting member 43 is rigid. The connecting member 43 holds the spacer 41 so that the spacer 41 is located in the center of the storage bag 22. If the lead member 39 does not have a connecting member 43, the connecting pipe 40 may be made of a rigid pipe. In this case, the connecting pipe 40 holds the spacer 41 so that the spacer 41 is located in the center of the storage bag 22.

[0041] As shown in Figure 5, the liquid container 21 may be in a different position than when in use during transport, storage, etc. For example, the first end portion 30 and the second end portion 31 may be aligned vertically. In such cases, the liquid moves within the container bag 22. For example, the liquid moves from the top to the bottom within the container bag 22. When the liquid moves within the container bag 22, the container bag 22 may expand or contract locally. For example, the upper part of the container bag 22 may contract, and the lower part may expand. When the container bag 22 contracts, a load may be placed on the discharge member 39. When the upper part of the container bag 22 contracts, the container bag 22 may stick to the discharge member 39, potentially applying a downward force to the discharge member 39. For example, when the upper part of the container bag 22 contracts, a downward force may be applied to the spacer 41. In this case, a load may be placed between the connecting member 43 and the connecting member 37.

[0042] <First Example> Next, a first embodiment of the liquid container 21 that reduces the risk of load being placed on the outlet member 39 will be described.

[0043] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the storage bag 22 has one or more sealing portions 50. The storage bag 22 may have multiple sealing portions 50. In one example, the storage bag 22 has four sealing portions 50.

[0044] The sealing portion 50 is the portion where the front portion 25 and the back portion 26 are bonded to each other. The sealing portion 50 may be a portion where the front portion 25 and the back portion 26 are heat-welded to each other, or a portion where they are ultrasonically welded to each other. The sealing portion 50 is a separate portion from the peripheral portion 27. Therefore, it can be said that the sealing portion 50 is a portion where there is no risk of liquid leaking from the storage bag 22 if it is peeled off. The sealing portion 50 is located in the storage bag 22 surrounded by the peripheral portion 27. In one example, the sealing portion 50 is a portion that is bonded to the storage bag 22 in a spot manner.

[0045] The sealing portion 50 reduces the risk of load being placed on the discharge member 39. More specifically, the sealing portion 50 reduces the volume of the storage bag 22. In other words, the sealing portion 50 makes it difficult for the storage bag 22 to expand. As a result, the storage bag 22 is less likely to expand or contract locally. Therefore, the liquid is less likely to move within the storage bag 22. Consequently, the risk of load being placed on the discharge member 39 is reduced.

[0046] The sealing portion 50 may be located at a different position from the lead member 39 in the direction in which the first virtual axis L1 extends. For example, the sealing portion 50 may be located at a different position from the spacer 41 in the direction in which the first virtual axis L1 extends. The sealing portion 50 may be located between the spacer 41 and the tip portion 28 in the direction in which the first virtual axis L1 extends. The sealing portion 50 may be located between the spacer 41 and the base portion 29 in the direction in which the first virtual axis L1 extends.

[0047] The sealing portion 50 may be located at a different position from the lead member 39 in the direction in which the second virtual axis L2 extends. The second virtual axis L2 is a virtual axis orthogonal to the first virtual axis L1. The second virtual axis L2 is, for example, a virtual axis passing through the spacer 41. In one example, the second virtual axis L2 is parallel to the tip portion 28 and the base portion 29. The sealing portion 50 may be located between the lead member 39 and the first end portion 30 in the direction in which the second virtual axis L2 extends. The sealing portion 50 may be located between the lead member 39 and the second end portion 31 in the direction in which the second virtual axis L2 extends. The sealing portion 50 may be located on the second virtual axis L2.

[0048] The multiple sealing portions 50 may be positioned symmetrically with respect to the lead member 39 when the storage bag 22 is viewed from above. The multiple sealing portions 50 may be positioned symmetrically with respect to a first virtual axis L1. That is, the multiple sealing portions 50 may be positioned so as to be aligned along a second virtual axis L2. The multiple sealing portions 50 may be positioned symmetrically with respect to a second virtual axis L2. That is, the multiple sealing portions 50 may be positioned so as to be aligned along the first virtual axis L1. The multiple sealing portions 50 may be positioned point-symmetrically with respect to the spacer 41. This makes it less likely for the storage bag 22 to bulge or deflate locally.

[0049] The storage bag 22 may have one or more first sealing portions 51 and one or more second sealing portions 52. In one example, the storage bag 22 has two first sealing portions 51 and two second sealing portions 52. The first sealing portions 51 and the second sealing portions 52 are sealing portions 50 that are located opposite each other with respect to the lead member 39 when the storage bag 22 is viewed from above. More specifically, the first sealing portions 51 and the second sealing portions 52 are sealing portions 50 that are located opposite each other with respect to a first virtual axis L1.

[0050] The first sealing portion 51 is a sealing portion 50 located between the first end portion 30 and the lead member 39 when the storage bag 22 is viewed from above. The second sealing portion 52 is a sealing portion 50 located between the second end portion 31 and the lead member 39 when the storage bag 22 is viewed from above.

[0051] The first sealing portion 51 may be located in the storage bag 22 midway between the lead member 39 and the first end portion 30. In this case, the first sealing portion 51 can effectively suppress localized swelling of the storage bag 22. The second sealing portion 52 may be located in the storage bag 22 midway between the lead member 39 and the second end portion 31. In this case, the second sealing portion 52 can effectively suppress localized swelling of the storage bag 22.

[0052] The two first seal portions 51 are positioned to be aligned along the first virtual axis L1. The two first seal portions 51 are positioned to sandwich the spacer 41 in the direction in which the first virtual axis L1 extends. One of the two first seal portions 51 is positioned between the spacer 41 and the tip portion 28. The other first seal portion 51 is positioned between the spacer 41 and the base portion 29.

[0053] The two second seal portions 52 are positioned to be aligned along the first virtual axis L1. The two second seal portions 52 are positioned with the spacer 41 in between in the direction in which the first virtual axis L1 extends. One of the two second seal portions 52 is positioned between the spacer 41 and the tip portion 28. The other second seal portion 52 is positioned between the spacer 41 and the base portion 29.

[0054] The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 are positioned to be aligned along the second virtual axis L2. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 are positioned to sandwich the lead member 39 in the direction in which the second virtual axis L2 extends. Specifically, the first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52, located between the spacer 41 and the tip portion 28 in the direction in which the first virtual axis L1 extends, are positioned to sandwich the lead member 39 in the direction in which the second virtual axis L2 extends. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52, located between the spacer 41 and the base portion 29 in the direction in which the first virtual axis L1 extends, are positioned to sandwich the lead member 39 in the direction in which the second virtual axis L2 extends.

[0055] <Effects and Actions of the First Embodiment> Next, the operation and effects of the first embodiment will be described. (1-1) The storage bag 22 has a sealing portion 50 in which the front portion 25 and the back portion 26 are bonded together, which is different from the peripheral portion 27. With the above configuration, the sealing portion 50 reduces the volume that the storage bag 22 can hold. As a result, the liquid is less likely to move inside the storage bag 22. This makes the storage bag 22 less likely to deflate locally. Therefore, the risk of load being placed on the discharge member 39 is reduced.

[0056] <Second Example> Next, a second embodiment of the liquid container 21 will be described. In the second embodiment, the sealing portion 50 is different from that of the first embodiment. The second embodiment may be combined with the first embodiment.

[0057] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the storage bag 22 has one or more sealing portions 50. In one example, the storage bag 22 has two sealing portions 50. The sealing portions 50 may be located on the second virtual axis L2. The sealing portions 50 may be located on the second virtual axis L2 so as to be aligned with the spacer 41. The sealing portions 50 may be located on the second virtual axis L2 so as to be adjacent to the spacer 41. The sealing portions 50 may be located in a position that suppresses displacement of the lead member 39. By being adjacent to the spacer 41 on the second virtual axis L2, the sealing portions 50 can support the spacer 41. For example, the sealing portions 50 can support the spacer 41 from below. This reduces the risk of load being placed on the lead member 39 when the top of the storage bag 22 collapses.

[0058] The storage bag 22 may have a first sealing portion 51 and a second sealing portion 52. In one example, the storage bag 22 has one first sealing portion 51 and one second sealing portion 52. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 may be located on the second virtual axis L2. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 may be located on the second virtual axis L2 so as to be aligned with the spacer 41. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 may be located on the second virtual axis L2 so as to be adjacent to the spacer 41. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 may be located on the second virtual axis L2 so as to sandwich the spacer 41. In one example, the first sealing portion 51, the spacer 41, and the second sealing portion 52 are aligned on the second virtual axis L2 in this order. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 are positioned on the second virtual axis L2 so as to sandwich the spacer 41, thereby suppressing displacement of the lead member 39. As a result, the first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 can support the spacer 41. Consequently, the risk of load being placed on the lead member 39 is reduced.

[0059] <Effects and Actions of the Second Embodiment> Next, the operation and effects of the second embodiment will be described. (2-1) When the storage bag 22 is viewed from above, the sealing portion 50 is located adjacent to the spacer 41 on the second virtual axis L2. With the above configuration, the sealing portion 50 can support the lead member 39. This makes it difficult for the lead member 39 to be displaced. As a result, the risk of load being placed on the lead member 39 is reduced.

[0060] (2-2) The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 are positioned on the second virtual axis L2, sandwiching the spacer 41, when the storage bag 22 is viewed from above. With the above configuration, the lead member 39 is more easily supported by the first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52. As a result, the lead member 39 is less likely to be displaced.

[0061] <Third Example> Next, a third embodiment of the liquid container 21 will be described. In the third embodiment, the sealing portion 50 is different from that of the first and second embodiments. The third embodiment may be combined with the first embodiment, or with the second embodiment, or with both the first and second embodiments.

[0062] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the storage bag 22 has one or more sealing portions 50. In one example, the storage bag 22 has two sealing portions 50. The sealing portions 50 may be configured to extend along a first virtual axis L1. The sealing portions 50 may be elongated portions bonded along the first virtual axis L1. In this case, the volume of the storage bag 22 is reduced compared to the case where the sealing portions 50 are bonded in a spot manner. This makes the storage bag 22 less likely to bulge or deflate locally. Therefore, liquid movement within the storage bag 22 is reduced. As a result, the risk of load being placed on the discharge member 39 is reduced.

[0063] The sealing portion 50 may be configured to extend from the tip portion 28 to the base portion 29. In this case, the sealing portion 50 divides the inside of the storage bag 22 into a space where liquid is contained and a space where liquid is not contained. As a result, the volume of the storage bag 22 becomes smaller. This makes it more difficult for the liquid to move inside the storage bag 22.

[0064] The storage bag 22 may have a first sealing portion 51 and a second sealing portion 52. In one example, the storage bag 22 has one first sealing portion 51 and one second sealing portion 52. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 may be positioned to sandwich the lead member 39 in the direction in which the second virtual axis L2 extends. In one example, the storage bag 22 has one first sealing portion 51 and one second sealing portion 52. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 may be positioned to sandwich the spacer 41 in the direction in which the second virtual axis L2 extends. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 may be positioned to pass along the second virtual axis L2 when the storage bag 22 is viewed from above. In one example, the first sealing portion 51, the spacer 41, and the second sealing portion 52 are aligned on the second virtual axis L2 in this order. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 may be positioned adjacent to the spacer 41.

[0065] The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 may extend along the first virtual axis L1. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 may extend parallel to each other. The first sealing portion 51 may extend parallel to the first end portion 30. The second sealing portion 52 may extend parallel to the second end portion 31. The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 may extend from the tip portion 28 to the base portion 29.

[0066] <Effects and Actions of the Third Embodiment> Next, the operation and effects of the third embodiment will be described. (3-1) The sealing portion 50 extends along the first virtual axis L1. With the above configuration, because the sealing portion 50 is long, it becomes difficult for the liquid to move inside the storage bag 22. This reduces the risk of load being placed on the discharge member 39.

[0067] (3-2) The sealing portion 50 extends from the tip portion 28 to the base portion 29. With the above configuration, the volume of the storage bag 22 is reduced, making it more difficult for the liquid to move within the storage bag 22. This reduces the risk of load being placed on the discharge member 39.

[0068] (3-3) The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 extend along the first virtual axis L1. With the above configuration, because the first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 are long, the liquid is less likely to move within the storage bag 22. This reduces the risk of load being placed on the discharge member 39.

[0069] (3-4) The first sealing portion 51 and the second sealing portion 52 extend from the tip portion 28 to the base portion 29. With the above configuration, the volume of the storage bag 22 is reduced, making it more difficult for the liquid to move within the storage bag 22. This reduces the risk of load being placed on the discharge member 39.

[0070] <Technical philosophy> The technical concepts and their effects, as understood from each of the above-described embodiments and modifications, are described below.

[0071] (A) The liquid container is a liquid container that is attached to a printing device to supply liquid to the printing device, and comprises a container bag for containing liquid and a discharge part attached to the container bag, the discharge part having a connecting member connected to the printing device and a discharge member extending from the connecting member into the container bag, the container bag having a front portion and a back portion located so as to sandwich the discharge member, a peripheral portion including the edge of the front portion and the edge of the back portion, and a sealing portion which is different from the peripheral portion and to which the front portion and the back portion are bonded together. With the above configuration, the sealing portion reduces the volume that the container bag can hold. As a result, the liquid is less likely to move inside the container bag. This makes the container bag less likely to deflate locally. Therefore, the risk of load being placed on the discharge member is reduced.

[0072] (B) In the liquid container described above, the discharge member has a connecting pipe extending from the connecting member along a first virtual axis and a spacer connected to the connecting pipe, and the sealing portion may be positioned adjacent to the spacer on a second virtual axis that is perpendicular to the first virtual axis and passes through the spacer when the container bag is viewed from above. With the above configuration, the sealing portion can support the discharge member. This makes it difficult for the discharge member to be displaced. As a result, the risk of load being placed on the discharge member is reduced.

[0073] (C) In the liquid container described above, the sealing portion is a first sealing portion, and the container bag has a second sealing portion which is a portion different from the peripheral portion and in which the front portion and the back portion are bonded to each other, and the first sealing portion and the second sealing portion may be positioned on the second virtual axis so as to sandwich the spacer when the container bag is viewed in plan. With the above configuration, the lead member is more easily supported by the first sealing portion and the second sealing portion. As a result, the lead member is less likely to be displaced.

[0074] (D) In ​​the liquid container described above, the discharge member has a connecting pipe extending from the connecting member along a first virtual axis and a spacer connected to the connecting pipe, and the sealing portion may also extend along the first virtual axis. With the above configuration, the sealing portion is long, making it difficult for the liquid to move inside the container bag. This reduces the risk of load being placed on the discharge member.

[0075] (E) In the liquid container described above, the peripheral portion has a tip portion to which the outlet portion is attached and a base portion opposite to the tip portion, and the sealing portion may extend from the tip portion to the base portion. With the above configuration, the volume of the container bag is reduced, making it more difficult for the liquid to move inside the container bag. This reduces the risk of load being placed on the outlet member.

[0076] (F) In the liquid container described above, the sealing portion is a first sealing portion, and the container bag has a second sealing portion which is a portion different from the peripheral portion and in which the front portion and the back portion are bonded to each other, and the first sealing portion and the second sealing portion are positioned to sandwich the lead member in the direction in which the second virtual axis, which is perpendicular to the first virtual axis, extends when the container bag is viewed from above, and the second sealing portion may extend along the first virtual axis. With the above configuration, because the second sealing portion is long, the liquid is less likely to move inside the container bag. This reduces the risk of load being placed on the lead member.

[0077] (G) In the liquid container described above, the peripheral portion has a tip portion to which the outlet portion is attached and a base portion opposite to the tip portion, and the second sealing portion may extend from the tip portion to the base portion. With the above configuration, the volume of the container bag is reduced, making it more difficult for the liquid to move inside the container bag. This reduces the risk of load being placed on the outlet member. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0078] 11...Printing device, 12...Printing section, 13...Head, 14...Nozzle, 15...Nozzle surface, 16...Carriage, 17...Feed path, 18...Mounting section, 19...Feed needle, 21...Liquid container, 22...Container bag, 23...Front surface, 24...Back surface, 25...Front part, 26...Back part, 27...Peripheral part, 28...Tip part, 29...Base part, 30...First end part, 31...Second end part, 32...Outlet part, 33...Outer casing member, 34...Insertion hole, 35...Handle member, 36...Circuit board, 37...Connecting member, 38...Insertion tube, 39...Outlet member, 40...Connecting tube, 41...Spacer, 42...Outlet, 43...Connecting member, 50...Seal part, 51...First seal part, 52...Second seal part, 99...Media, L1...First virtual axis, L2...Second virtual axis.

Claims

1. A liquid container that is attached to a printing device to supply liquid to the printing device, A storage bag for holding liquid, It comprises an outlet portion that is attached to the aforementioned storage bag, The aforementioned derivation section is, A connecting member connected to the printing device, It has a connecting member and an exit member extending into the storage bag, The aforementioned storage bag is The front portion and back portion are positioned so as to sandwich the aforementioned lead member, The peripheral portion including the edge of the front portion and the edge of the back portion, A liquid container characterized by having a sealing portion which is different from the peripheral portion and in which the front portion and the back portion are bonded to each other.

2. The aforementioned lead member is, A connecting pipe extending from the connecting member along the first virtual axis, It has a spacer connected to the connecting pipe, The liquid container according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealing portion is located adjacent to the spacer on a second virtual axis that is perpendicular to the first virtual axis and passes through the spacer when the container bag is viewed in plan.

3. The aforementioned sealing portion is the first sealing portion, The storage bag has a second sealing portion, which is different from the peripheral portion, and in which the front portion and the back portion are bonded together. The liquid container according to claim 2, characterized in that the first sealing portion and the second sealing portion are positioned on the second virtual axis, sandwiching the spacer, when the container bag is viewed from above.

4. The aforementioned lead member is, A connecting pipe extending from the connecting member along the first virtual axis, It has a spacer connected to the connecting pipe, The liquid container according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealing portion extends along the first virtual axis.

5. The aforementioned peripheral portion is The tip portion to which the aforementioned outlet portion is attached, It has a base end portion opposite to the aforementioned tip portion, The liquid container according to claim 4, characterized in that the sealing portion extends from the tip portion to the base portion.

6. The aforementioned sealing portion is the first sealing portion, The storage bag has a second sealing portion, which is different from the peripheral portion, and in which the front portion and the back portion are bonded together. The first sealing portion and the second sealing portion are positioned so as to sandwich the lead member in the direction in which the second virtual axis, which is perpendicular to the first virtual axis, extends when the storage bag is viewed from above. The liquid container according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the second sealing portion extends along the first virtual axis.

7. The aforementioned peripheral portion is The tip portion to which the aforementioned outlet portion is attached, It has a base end portion opposite to the aforementioned tip portion, The liquid container according to claim 6, characterized in that the second sealing portion extends from the tip portion to the base portion.

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