Liquid container and liquid dispensing device

Abstract

To provide a liquid container and a liquid dispensing device that can improve convenience. [Solution] The liquid container comprises a liquid container section for containing liquid, a float section provided within the liquid container section and floating on the liquid contained in the liquid container section and displacing vertically, a first magnetic material provided within the liquid container section and linked to the vertical displacement of the float section, a second magnetic material provided outside the liquid container section and linked to the vertical displacement of the first magnetic material, and a sensor provided outside the liquid container section that detects a value corresponding to the liquid level of the liquid contained in the liquid container section in accordance with the vertical displacement of the second magnetic material.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is disclosed an inkjet printer that includes an ink tank containing water-soluble ink as an example of a liquid, and performs printing with the water-soluble ink supplied from the ink tank. In such an inkjet printer, the liquid level of the ink tank is detected based on the presence or absence of energization between a plurality of electrodes in the ink tank, which is an example of a liquid container.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in such a liquid container, although it is possible to detect whether the liquid level contained in the liquid container is a predetermined liquid level, it was not possible to detect the liquid level in a plurality of stages.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The liquid container that solves the above problems includes a liquid storage unit that stores a liquid, a float unit that is provided in the liquid storage unit and floats on the liquid stored in the liquid storage unit and is displaced in the vertical direction, a first magnetic body that is provided in the liquid storage unit and interlocks with the displacement of the float unit in the vertical direction, a second magnetic body that is provided outside the liquid storage unit and interlocks with the displacement of the first magnetic body in the vertical direction, and a sensor that is provided outside the liquid storage unit and detects a value corresponding to the liquid level of the liquid stored in the liquid storage unit according to the displacement of the second magnetic body in the vertical direction.

[0006] A liquid dispensing device that solves the above problems is a liquid dispensing device for detecting the liquid level of a liquid contained in a liquid container, the liquid container comprising: a liquid container for containing liquid; a float for floating on the liquid contained in the liquid container and displacing vertically; and a first magnetic body that is linked to the vertical displacement of the float for detecting the liquid level of the liquid contained in the liquid container, the device comprising: a liquid dispensing unit for dispensing the liquid contained in the liquid container; a second magnetic body that is linked to the vertical displacement of the first magnetic body; a sensor that detects a value corresponding to the liquid level of the liquid contained in the liquid container in accordance with the vertical displacement of the second magnetic body; and a control unit that calculates the liquid level of the liquid contained in the liquid container based on the detection result of the sensor. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a liquid dispensing device of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the liquid container of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the float portion of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the float portion of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a front view showing the liquid container of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a front view showing the liquid container of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a graph showing the relationship between the angle of the link member and the liquid level in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a circuit diagram of the sensor according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the float portion of the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] [First Embodiment] The following description will explain one embodiment of a liquid dispensing device equipped with a liquid container with reference to the drawings. In the following description, with the liquid dispensing device installed on a horizontal surface, the axis intersecting the horizontal surface will be called the Z-axis, the axis intersecting the Z-axis will be called the X-axis, and the axis intersecting the X-axis and the Z-axis will be called the Y-axis. One direction along the X-axis will be called the first width direction X1, and the other direction along the X-axis will be called the second width direction X2. One direction along the Y-axis will be called the front Y1, and the other direction along the Y-axis will be called the rear Y2. The upward direction along the Z-axis will be called the upward Z1, and the downward direction along the Z-axis will be called the downward Z2. The direction along the Z-axis is an example of a vertical direction. Viewing from upward Z1 will simply be referred to as a top view. Viewing from forward Y1 will simply be referred to as a front view.

[0009] <Configuration of liquid dispensing device 11> As shown in Figure 1, the liquid ejection device 11 is configured to perform printing by ejecting liquid onto the medium 12. The liquid ejection device 11 may also be an inkjet printer that performs printing by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto the medium 12. The medium 12 may be, for example, paper, fabric, vinyl, plastic parts, metal parts, etc.

[0010] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a liquid dispensing section 13. The liquid dispensing section 13 is configured to dispense liquid into the medium 12. The liquid dispensing section 13 includes a head 14. The head 14 dispenses liquid into the medium 12. The head 14 is configured to dispense liquid to be contained in a liquid container 21, which will be described later. In other words, the liquid dispensing section 13 is configured to dispense liquid to be contained in the liquid container 21.

[0011] The print head 14 has a nozzle surface 16 from which multiple nozzles 15 are open. The nozzle surface 16 may be a surface facing downward Z2. The print head 14 performs printing by ejecting liquid onto the medium 12 from each of the multiple nozzles 15.

[0012] The head 14 may be of a serial type or a line type. The serial type performs printing by discharging liquid onto the medium 12 while the head 14 moves. The line type is provided in a long shape along the width of the medium 12, and performs printing by discharging liquid onto the medium 12.

[0013] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a medium support portion 17. The medium support portion 17 is configured to support the medium 12. The medium support portion 17 is provided so as to face the nozzle surface 16. The medium support portion 17 is configured to support the medium 12 onto which liquid is ejected by the liquid ejection portion 13.

[0014] The liquid ejection device 11 may include a conveyance portion 18. The conveyance portion 18 is configured to convey the medium 12. The conveyance portion 18 conveys the medium 12 from a medium storage portion (not shown) to the head 14. The conveyance portion 18 conveys the medium 12 printed by the head 14 outside the liquid ejection device 11. The conveyance portion 18 may include rollers.

[0015] The liquid ejection device 11 may include a supply flow path 19. The liquid ejection device 11 may include a plurality of supply flow paths 19 corresponding to the colors of the liquid. The supply flow path 19 is a flow path for supplying liquid from a liquid container 21 described later to the head 14.

[0016] The upstream end of the supply flow path 19 is connected to the liquid container 21. The downstream end of the supply flow path 19 is connected to the head 14. The supply flow path 19 may supply liquid by means of a head. The liquid ejection device 11 may include a pump (not shown) for supplying liquid from the liquid container 21 to the head 14.

[0017] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a liquid container 21. The liquid ejection device 11 may include a plurality of liquid containers 21 corresponding to the colors of the liquid. The liquid container 21 stores the liquid to be supplied to the head 14. The liquid container 21 may be an ink tank. The liquid container 21 may be fixed to the liquid ejection device 11.

[0018] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a control unit 90. The control unit 90 comprehensively controls the liquid ejection device 11. The control unit 90 controls various operations executed in the liquid ejection device 11. The control unit 90 can be configured as a circuit including one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program α, one or more dedicated hardware circuits that execute at least a part of the various processes β, or a combination thereof γ. The hardware circuit is, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit. The processor includes a CPU and memories such as a RAM and a ROM, and the memories store program codes or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. The memory, that is, the computer-readable medium, includes any readable medium accessible by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0019] The control unit 90 causes various information to be displayed on a display unit (not shown). The control unit 90 receives an instruction from a user via an operation unit (not shown). The liquid ejection device 11 may be communicable with a terminal device (not shown). The control unit 90 may receive an instruction from a user from the terminal device.

[0020] <Configuration of the liquid container 21> As shown in FIG. 2, the liquid container 21 includes a liquid storage unit 30, a float unit 40, and a guide unit 50. The liquid storage unit 30 stores liquid. In particular, the liquid storage unit 30 stores the liquid to be supplied to the head 14. The liquid storage unit 30 may be a container that stores liquid. The liquid storage unit 30 includes a liquid storage chamber 31. The liquid storage chamber 31 stores the liquid in the liquid storage unit 30.

[0021] The liquid storage unit 30 includes an outer surface 30a and an inner surface 30b. The outer surface 30a is a surface facing outward in the liquid storage unit 30. The outer surface 30a includes a surface facing forward Y1 on the front Y1 side of the liquid storage unit 30. The inner surface 30b is a surface facing inward in the liquid storage unit 30. The inner surface 30b includes a surface facing backward Y2 on the front Y1 side of the liquid storage unit 30.

[0022] The liquid container 30 may include a support shaft 32. In other words, the liquid container 21 may include a support shaft 32. The support shaft 32 is provided to extend along the forward direction Y1. The support shaft 32 may be provided to extend from the outer surface 30a on the forward Y1 side of the liquid container 30 toward the forward direction Y1.

[0023] The guide portion 50 is provided within the liquid storage portion 30. The guide portion 50 is housed in the liquid storage chamber 31. The guide portion 50 is provided so as to extend along the Z-axis. The guide portion 50 contacts the float portion 40 from both sides in the first width direction X1 and the second width direction X2. The guide portion 50 contacts the float portion 40 from the rear Y2. The guide portion 50 contacts the float portion 40 from the rear Y2 such that the float portion 40 contacts the inner surface 30b. The guide portion 50 guides the float portion 40 so as to be displaceable in the direction along the Z-axis. The guide portion 50 does not contact the inner surface 30b, but it may contact the inner surface 30b.

[0024] The float portion 40 is provided within the liquid storage portion 30. The float portion 40 floats on the liquid stored in the liquid storage portion 30. The float portion 40 is in contact with the guide portion 50 from both sides, in the first width direction X1 and the second width direction X2.

[0025] The float portion 40 is displaceable in the direction along the Z-axis while being guided by the guide portion 50. In other words, the float portion 40 floats on the liquid contained in the liquid containment portion 30 and displaces in the direction along the Z-axis.

[0026] As a result, the float portion 40 is displaced in a direction along the Z-axis in conjunction with the liquid level L of the liquid contained in the liquid storage portion 30. The liquid level L indicates the height of the liquid surface contained in the liquid storage portion 30. Hereafter, the liquid level L of the liquid contained in the liquid storage portion 30 may be simply referred to as the liquid level L.

[0027] As shown in Figure 3, the float portion 40 has a first surface 40a. The first surface 40a is the front surface of the float portion 40. In other words, the first surface 40a is the front surface Y1 side of the float portion 40. The first surface 40a may be in contact with the inner surface 30b.

[0028] The float portion 40 may be provided with an opening 40b. The opening 40b connects the first surface 40a to the magnetic material housing chamber 42, which will be described later. The opening 40b is provided in a position that overlaps with the magnetic material housing chamber 42 when viewed from the front.

[0029] As shown in Figure 4, the liquid container 21 includes a first magnetic material 41. The float section 40 includes a magnetic material housing chamber 42 and an air chamber 43. The magnetic material housing chamber 42 is located above the air chamber 43 at Z1. The magnetic material housing chamber 42 houses the first magnetic material 41. In other words, the float section 40 houses the first magnetic material 41.

[0030] The first magnetic material 41 is provided within the liquid containment section 30. The first magnetic material 41 is housed in the magnetic material containment chamber 42. The first magnetic material 41 may be a ferromagnetic material such as a magnet. The first magnetic material 41 is linked to the displacement of the float section 40 in the direction along the Z axis. That is, the first magnetic material 41 is displaced in the direction along the Z axis in conjunction with the liquid level L. The first magnetic material 41 may be located Y2 behind the first surface 40a.

[0031] The air chamber 43 is provided inside the float section 40. The air chamber 43 may be provided by cutting out a portion of the inside of the float section 40. The air chamber 43 may be sealed from below Z2 by a sealing lid 40c.

[0032] The air chamber 43 is located below Z2 the magnetic material housing chamber 42. In other words, the air chamber 43 is located below Z2 the first magnetic material 41. The magnetic material housing chamber 42 and the air chamber 43 are located in positions that overlap when viewed from above.

[0033] As shown in Figure 2, the liquid container 21 is equipped with a liquid level detection device 60. The liquid level detection device 60 detects the liquid level L of the liquid contained in the liquid container chamber 31. In other words, the liquid dispensing device 11 detects the liquid level L of the liquid contained in the liquid container 21.

[0034] The liquid level detection device 60 comprises a link member 61, a second magnetic material 62, a sensor 63, and a link guide section 70. In other words, the liquid dispensing device 11 and the liquid container 21 comprise the link member 61, the second magnetic material 62, the sensor 63, and the link guide section 70.

[0035] The link member 61 is configured to extend along its longitudinal direction. The link member 61 may also be in the shape of a flat plate. This allows for miniaturization of the liquid level detection device 60. The link member 61 comprises a first end 61a, a second end 61b, and an elongated hole 61c. The first end 61a is one end of the link member 61 in the longitudinal direction. The second end 61b is the other end of the link member 61 in the longitudinal direction. In this embodiment, the first end 61a is the end of the link member 61 on the first width direction X1 side. In this embodiment, the second end 61b is the end of the link member 61 on the second width direction X2 side.

[0036] The elongated hole 61c is provided between the first end 61a and the second end 61b. The elongated hole 61c is provided on the side of the second end 61b that is closer to the center of the link member 61, but it may be provided at any position. The elongated hole 61c is provided so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the link member 61. The elongated hole 61c is a hole through which the support shaft 32 can be inserted.

[0037] The link member 61 is provided on the outer surface 30a of the liquid storage section 30. The link member 61 is supported by the support shaft 32, with the support shaft 32 inserted through the elongated hole 61c. The link member 61 is supported by the support shaft 32 so as to be along the outer surface 30a.

[0038] The link member 61 is provided so as to be rotatable about the support shaft 32 with the support shaft 32 inserted through the elongated hole 61c. The link member 61 is provided so as to be slidable along the longitudinal direction with the support shaft 32 inserted through the elongated hole 61c.

[0039] The link member 61 includes a holding portion 61d. The holding portion 61d is provided at the first end portion 61a. The holding portion 61d is the part that holds the second magnetic material 62. The holding portion 61d may also be a recess that holds the second magnetic material 62.

[0040] The second magnetic material 62 is provided outside the liquid containment section 30. The second magnetic material 62 is held by the holding section 61d. The second magnetic material 62 is provided at the first end 61a. The link member 61 may also include the second magnetic material 62.

[0041] The second magnetic material 62 may be a ferromagnetic material such as a magnet. The second magnetic material 62 has a polarity that attracts the first magnetic material 41. The second magnetic material 62 is provided at a position facing the first magnetic material 41 on the front Y1 side of the liquid storage section 30, with the liquid storage section 30 in between. In other words, the first end portion 61a is provided at a position facing the float portion 40 on the front Y1 side of the liquid storage section 30, with the liquid storage section 30 in between.

[0042] The second magnetic material 62 is attracted to the first magnetic material 41, and thus its displacement is linked to the displacement of the first magnetic material 41 in the direction along the Z-axis. The link member 61 is linked to the displacement of the first magnetic material 41 in the direction along the Z-axis. In other words, the second magnetic material 62 is displaced in the direction along the Z-axis in conjunction with the liquid level L.

[0043] The material of the liquid storage section 30 is chosen such that the first magnetic material 41 and the second magnetic material 62 attract each other across the liquid storage section 30. The thickness of the liquid storage section 30 is chosen such that the first magnetic material 41 and the second magnetic material 62 attract each other across the liquid storage section 30.

[0044] Sensor 63 is located outside the liquid storage section 30. Sensor 63 is located at the second end portion 61b. Sensor 63 and the second magnetic material 62 are connected by a link member 61. Sensor 63 detects the angle of the link member 61. Sensor 63 detects the angle of the link member 61 in accordance with its rotation. In other words, sensor 63 detects a value corresponding to the liquid level L.

[0045] The output of sensor 63 changes in accordance with the angle change of link member 61. In the first embodiment, sensor 63 may be an angle sensor. Sensor 63 may also be an acceleration sensor.

[0046] The link guide portion 70 is a member that guides the link member 61 from the front Y1 side. In Figure 2, the link guide portion 70 is shown by a dashed line. The link guide portion 70 guides the link member 61 together with the outer surface 30a on the front Y1 side of the liquid storage portion 30. The link guide portion 70 guides the link member 61 so that it can rotate along the outer surface 30a. The link guide portion 70 guides the link member 61 so that it can slide along the outer surface 30a. The link guide portion 70 may also guide the link member 61 to the rear Y2 so that it does not come off the front Y1 of the support shaft 32.

[0047] The link guide section 70 may include a first link guide section 71 and a second link guide section 72. The first link guide section 71 is provided on the first width direction X1 side of the liquid storage section 30. The first link guide section 71 may be provided so as to protrude forward Y1 from the outer surface 30a. The first link guide section 71 is provided so as to guide the first end 61a from the forward Y1 side.

[0048] The second link guide portion 72 is provided on the second width direction X2 side of the liquid storage portion 30. The second link guide portion 72 may be provided so as to protrude forward Y1 from the outer surface 30a. The second link guide portion 72 is provided so as to guide the second end portion 61b from the forward Y1 side.

[0049] <Operation of liquid level detection> As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the float portion 40 floats in the liquid contained within the liquid storage portion 30. The float portion 40 is displaced in a direction along the Z-axis in conjunction with the liquid level L. Due to the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic material 41 and the second magnetic material 62, the float portion 40 and the first end portion 61a are at the same height. In other words, the float portion 40 and the first end portion 61a overlap in a front view.

[0050] When the amount of liquid contained in the liquid storage section 30 decreases, the liquid level L drops. In this case, the float section 40 is displaced downward Z2 along the Z-axis in conjunction with the liquid level L. When the amount of liquid contained in the liquid storage section 30 increases, the liquid level L rises. In this case, the float section 40 is displaced upward Z1 along the Z-axis in conjunction with the liquid level L.

[0051] The first magnetic material 41 and the second magnetic material 62 attract each other by magnetic force, so that the float portion 40 and the first end portion 61a are at the same height. As a result, the link member 61 slides longitudinally while supported by the support shaft 32 and rotates around the support shaft 32 in accordance with the displacement of the second magnetic material 62 along the Z-axis. In other words, the link member 61 rotates in accordance with the displacement of the liquid level L.

[0052] Thus, the angle of the link member 61 changes in accordance with the displacement of the second magnetic material 62 in the direction along the Z-axis. In other words, the angle of the link member 61 changes in accordance with the displacement of the liquid level L. As shown in Figure 7, the memory stores liquid level detection data. The liquid level detection data is data that shows the correspondence between the angle of the link member 61 detected by the sensor 63 and the liquid level L.

[0053] The liquid level detection data may be data in which the angle of the link member 61 and the liquid level L are proportional. The angle of the link member 61 is defined as follows: in a front view, the angle at which the first end 61a is directed toward the first width direction X1 is defined as 0 degrees, the angle at which the first end 61a is tilted upward Z1 is defined as a positive angle, and the angle at which the first end 61a is tilted downward Z2 is defined as a negative angle.

[0054] To give a specific example, in the liquid level detection data, when the angle of the link member 61 is a positive angle +d, the first liquid level L1 is associated with the liquid level L. In the liquid level detection data, when the angle of the link member 61 is a negative angle -d, the second liquid level L2 is associated with the liquid level L. The first liquid level L1 is higher than the second liquid level L2.

[0055] The control unit 90 calculates the liquid level L corresponding to the angle of the link member 61 detected by the sensor 63 by referring to the liquid level detection data. To give a specific example, when the angle of the link member 61 is a positive angle +d, the control unit 90 calculates the first liquid level L1 as the liquid level L. When the angle of the link member 61 is a negative angle -d, the control unit 90 calculates the second liquid level L2 as the liquid level L.

[0056] In this way, the control unit 90 detects the liquid level L in accordance with the output of the sensor 63. In other words, the control unit 90 calculates the liquid level L based on the detection result of the sensor 63. To put it another way, the sensor 63 can detect the liquid level L by detecting the angle of the link member 61 in accordance with the displacement of the second magnetic material 62 in the direction along the Z axis.

[0057] The control unit 90 may display the remaining amount of liquid in the liquid storage unit 30 on an unshown display unit based on the detected liquid level L. This allows the control unit 90 to continuously notify the user of the remaining amount of liquid in the liquid storage unit 30 in multiple stages based on the detected liquid level L. When the control unit 90 determines that the detected liquid level L has fallen below a threshold, it may notify the user by displaying information on the display unit indicating that the liquid in the liquid storage unit 30 should be replenished.

[0058] <Operation and Effects of the First Embodiment> The operation and effects of the first embodiment will now be described. (1-1) The control unit 90 can continuously detect the displacement of the float portion 40 floating in the liquid contained in the liquid portion 30 in the direction along the Z axis using the first magnetic material 41 inside the liquid portion 30 and the second magnetic material 62 and sensor 63 outside the liquid portion 30.

[0059] This configuration allows for continuous detection of the liquid level L. In addition, the float section 40 and the first magnetic body 41 located inside the liquid storage section 30 can be linked together non-contactually with the second magnetic body 62 and the sensor 63 located outside the liquid storage section 30. This allows for continuous detection of the liquid level L without the sensor 63 being located inside the liquid storage section 30. Furthermore, in order to continuously detect the liquid level L, the liquid storage section 21 does not need to have multiple electrodes of different heights inside the liquid storage section 30. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0060] (1-2) The liquid container 21 further includes a link member 61 that rotates in accordance with the displacement of the second magnetic material 62 in the direction along the Z axis. With this configuration, the control unit 90 further uses the link member 61 to continuously detect the displacement of the float portion 40, which floats in the liquid contained in the liquid container 30, in the direction along the Z axis. This makes it possible to continuously detect the liquid level L. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0061] (1-3) The link member 61 is provided on the outer surface 30a of the liquid storage section 30. With this configuration, the displacement of the float section 40 floating in the liquid stored in the liquid storage section 30 in the direction along the Z axis can be continuously detected using the link member 61 outside the liquid storage section 30. This allows for continuous detection of the liquid level L. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0062] (1-4) The sensor 63 and the second magnetic body 62 are connected by a link member 61, and the angle of the link member 61 changes in accordance with the displacement of the second magnetic body 62 in the direction along the Z axis. With this configuration, the displacement of the float section 40 in the direction along the Z axis can be detected based on the angle of the link member 61. As a result, the liquid level L can be continuously detected without installing the sensor 63 inside the liquid storage section 30. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0063] (1-5) The float section 40 has a magnetic material housing chamber 42 for housing the first magnetic material 41 and an air chamber 43, and the magnetic material housing chamber 42 and the air chamber 43 are positioned to overlap when viewed from the direction along the Z axis. With this configuration, the float section 40 can be floated in a more stable state on the liquid contained in the liquid housing section 30 while housing the first magnetic material 41 with a simple configuration. This makes it possible to increase the certainty that the float section 40 floats on the liquid contained in the liquid housing section 30. Therefore, the detection accuracy of the liquid level L can be improved.

[0064] (1-6) The liquid containment section 30 has a guide section 50 that guides the float section 40 so that it can be displaced in the direction along the Z axis. This configuration makes it possible to increase the reliability of displacing the float section 40 in the direction along the Z axis. As a result, the float section 40 can be made to float in the liquid contained in the liquid containment section 30 in a more stable state. Therefore, the accuracy of detecting the liquid level L can be improved.

[0065] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the following description, redundant explanations of the same configuration as in the previously described embodiment will be omitted or simplified, and configurations that differ from those in the previously described embodiment will be described.

[0066] <Liquid level detection using variable resistor 81> As shown in Figure 8, in the second embodiment, the sensor 63 may include a potentiometer. The sensor 63 may comprise a variable resistor 81 and a measuring unit 82. The variable resistor 81 may, for example, be a potentiometer. The variable resistor 81 and the measuring unit 82 are electrically connected.

[0067] The link member 61 may not have an elongated hole 61c and may have a rotating shaft (not shown). The link member 61 may be rotatable about the rotating shaft. The rotating shaft of the link member 61 is connected to the variable resistor 81.

[0068] The resistance value of the variable resistor 81 changes in accordance with the rotation of the link member 61 via the rotation axis of the link member 61. In other words, the variable resistor 81 is configured such that its resistance value changes in accordance with the displacement of the second magnetic material 62 in the direction along the Z axis.

[0069] The measuring unit 82 is configured to measure the signal from the variable resistor 81. The measuring unit 82 is configured to measure the voltage across the variable resistor 81, but it may also be configured to measure the current across the variable resistor 81. The measuring unit 82 outputs a signal indicating the measured voltage to the control unit 90.

[0070] The liquid level detection data may also be data showing the correspondence between the voltage measured by the measurement unit 82 and the liquid level L. The control unit 90 calculates the liquid level L corresponding to the voltage measured by the measurement unit 82 by referring to the liquid level detection data.

[0071] In this way, the control unit 90 detects the liquid level L in accordance with the output of the sensor 63. In other words, the sensor 63 can detect the liquid level L by detecting the voltage value of the variable resistor 81 in accordance with the displacement of the second magnetic material 62 in the direction along the Z axis.

[0072] To give a specific example, the variable resistor 81 is equipped with a slider (not shown). The slider is connected to the measuring unit 82. The power supply voltage Vcc is applied to both ends of the variable resistor 81. The slider is displaced between the two ends of the variable resistor 81. The slider is displaced in synchronization with the rotation angle of the rotation axis of the link member 61.

[0073] The resistance between the slider and the ground changes depending on the slider's position. Thus, the potential difference between the slider and the ground changes depending on the slider's position. In other words, the potential difference between the slider and the ground changes depending on the liquid level L.

[0074] The measuring unit 82 measures the potential difference between the slider and the ground. In this way, the measuring unit 82 can measure the potential difference corresponding to the displacement of the slider. In this way, the measuring unit 82 can measure the potential difference corresponding to the rotation angle of the link member 61.

[0075] <Operation and Effects of the Second Embodiment> The operation and effects of the second embodiment will now be described. (2-1) The sensor 63 includes a variable resistor 81 whose resistance value changes according to the displacement of the second magnetic material 62 in the direction along the Z axis, and a measuring unit 82 for measuring the current or voltage in the variable resistor 81.

[0076] With this configuration, the liquid level L can be detected using the variable resistor 81. This allows for miniaturization and cost reduction of the sensor 63. Consequently, the liquid container 21 can also be miniaturized and cost reduced.

[0077] [Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described. As shown in Figure 9, in the third embodiment, the magnetic material housing chamber 42 may be located below the air chamber 43 in Z2. The float section 40 may be configured in the order of the sealed lid 40c, the air chamber 43, the magnetic material housing chamber 42, and the first magnetic material 41, from top Z1 to bottom Z2. In other words, the float section 40 of the third embodiment is configured by inverting the float section 40 of the first and second embodiments.

[0078] <Operation and Effects of the Third Embodiment> The operation and effects of the third embodiment will now be described. (3-1) The magnetic material housing chamber 42 is located below Z2 the air chamber 43. With this configuration, since the first magnetic material 41 is located below Z2 the air chamber 43, the center of gravity of the float section 40 is lowered by the weight of the first magnetic material 41. This allows the float section 40 to float more stably on the liquid contained in the liquid housing section 30. This increases the certainty that the float section 40 will float on the liquid contained in the liquid housing section 30. Therefore, the accuracy of detecting the liquid level L can be improved.

[0079] [Example of changes] This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0080] In the first embodiment, the link member 61 does not have to slide along its longitudinal direction. The link member 61 may have a circular hole instead of an elongated hole 61c extending in the longitudinal direction. The link member 61 may have a pivot axis and be rotatable about the pivot axis.

[0081] In the second embodiment, the measuring unit 82 may be configured to measure the current in the variable resistor 81. The measuring unit 82 may also be an ammeter. To give a specific example, a power supply voltage Vcc is applied between the slider and ground. The value of the current flowing between the slider and ground changes depending on the position of the slider. In other words, the value of the current flowing between the slider and ground changes depending on the liquid level L. The measuring unit 82 outputs a signal indicating the measured current to the control unit 90. The liquid level detection data may be data showing the correspondence between the current measured by the measuring unit 82 and the liquid level L. The control unit 90 calculates the liquid level L corresponding to the current measured by the measuring unit 82 by referring to the liquid level detection data.

[0082] The guide portion 50 may be provided in any shape and position as long as the float portion 40 floats on the liquid contained in the liquid container 30. The guide portion 50 may be in contact with the inner surface 30b of the liquid container 30. For example, a notch may be provided on the lower Z2 side of the guide portion 50. The liquid container 21 does not need to have the guide portion 50 as long as the float portion 40 can be displaced in the direction along the Z axis in conjunction with the liquid level L.

[0083] The float section 40 does not necessarily have to have a magnetic material housing chamber 42. The first magnetic material 41 does not need to be housed in the float section 40 as long as it is linked to the displacement of the float section 40 in the direction along the Z axis. In other words, the float section 40 does not need to house the first magnetic material 41.

[0084] The sealing lid 40c should be provided so as to block the air chamber 43 of the float section 40. In other words, the sealing lid 40c is not limited to being provided so as to block the air chamber 43 from below Z2 of the float section 40. The sealing lid 40c may be transparent or not.

[0085] The size of the opening 40b may be adjusted as needed. The size of the opening 40b should be, for example, large enough that the first magnetic material 41 cannot pass through, and it may be completely closed. In other words, the opening 40b may not be provided at all. The distance between the first magnetic material 41 and the first surface 40a may be adjusted as needed.

[0086] The link guide section 70 may include a third link guide section separate from the first link guide section 71 and the second link guide section 72. If the link member 61 is rotatable in conjunction with the liquid level L, the link guide section 70 does not need to include either the first link guide section 71 or the second link guide section 72. If the link member 61 is rotatable in conjunction with the liquid level L, the liquid level detection device 60 does not need to include the link guide section 70. The link member 61 does not need to rotate along the outer surface 30a.

[0087] The support shaft 32 can be provided at any position as long as the link member 61 can rotate in conjunction with the liquid level L. The support shaft 32 may be provided directly on the liquid dispensing device 11 instead of the liquid storage section 30. In other words, the liquid storage section 30 does not need to have a support shaft 32.

[0088] The second magnetic material 62 may have a shape that extends along the longitudinal direction of the link member 61. This allows the second magnetic material 62 to be displaced in conjunction with the displacement of the first magnetic material 41, so as to face the first magnetic material 41, even when the link member 61 rotates.

[0089] • The liquid level detection data may be data in which the angle of the link member 61 and the liquid level L are inversely proportional. In the liquid level detection data, the relationship between the angle of the link member 61 and the liquid level L may be curvilinear rather than linear.

[0090] The first magnetic body 41, the second magnetic body 62, and the link member 61 may be provided at any position other than the front Y1 side of the liquid storage section 30, provided that the first magnetic body 41 and the second magnetic body 62 attract each other. In other words, the first magnetic body 41 may be provided on any inner surface 30b of the liquid storage section 30, and the second magnetic body 62 and the link member 61 may be provided on any outer surface 30a of the liquid storage section 30.

[0091] The liquid containment section 30 may have a recess (not shown) that is lower than the bottom surface. The recess may accommodate the float section 40 when it is displaced downward Z2. This expands the displacement range of the float section 40.

[0092] The liquid container 21 may be equipped with multiple electrodes (not shown) separate from the liquid level detection device 60. The multiple electrodes are provided inside the liquid container 30. The multiple electrodes are at different heights and can detect whether the liquid level L has fallen below a threshold based on whether or not current is flowing.

[0093] When the control unit 90 determines that the detected liquid level L has fallen below a threshold, it may display information on an unshown display unit indicating that it will replenish the liquid in the liquid storage unit 30. When the control unit 90 determines that the detected liquid level L has fallen below a threshold, it may also notify the user of the information that it will replenish the liquid in the liquid storage unit 30 using light or sound.

[0094] The angle of the link member 61 and the liquid level L are in a predetermined correspondence. Therefore, the sensor 63 outputs a signal corresponding to the angle of the link member 61 to the control unit 90, but it can also be said that it outputs a signal corresponding to the liquid level L to the control unit 90. In other words, the sensor 63 detects the liquid level L corresponding to the angle of the link member 61 in accordance with the displacement of the second magnetic material 62 in the direction along the Z axis.

[0095] • The memory does not necessarily need to store liquid level detection data. The control unit 90 may display an image related to the liquid level L on the display unit based on the signal from the sensor 63 and the angle of the link member 61.

[0096] The link member 61 may move linearly in conjunction with the displacement of the second magnetic material 62 in the direction along the Z-axis. The liquid container 21 does not need to use the link member 61 if it is equipped with a sensor that detects the displacement of the second magnetic material 62, which is attracted to the first magnetic material 41, in the direction along the Z-axis in multiple stages.

[0097] The liquid storage section 30 may be an ink tank into which liquid is directly filled, and may be provided between the ink cartridge containing the liquid and the liquid dispensing section 13. The liquid storage section 30 may also be an ink cartridge that is detachable from the liquid dispensing device 11. In such a case, the liquid level detection device 60 may be provided in the liquid storage section 30, or it may be provided in the liquid dispensing device 11 itself. In other words, if the liquid storage section 30 is detachable, the liquid container 21 may be configured to include the liquid storage section 30 and the liquid level detection device 60. The liquid container 21 may include the liquid storage section 30 but not the liquid level detection device 60. Thus, the liquid dispensing device 11 may include the liquid level detection device 60 and have a detachable liquid storage section 30.

[0098] The medium may be paper, resin films or sheets, resin-metal composite films, laminate films, textiles, nonwoven fabrics, metal foils, metal films, ceramic sheets, and clothing.

[0099] The liquid can be any liquid that can be applied to the medium and used for printing. For example, inks include functional material particles consisting of solids such as pigments and metal particles dissolved, dispersed, or mixed in a solvent, and encompass various compositions such as water-based inks, oil-based inks, gel inks, and hot-melt inks.

[0100] As used herein, the expression "at least one of" means one or more of the desired options. For example, as used herein, if there are two options, the expression "at least one of" means either one option or both of the two options. As another example, as used herein, if there are three or more options, the expression "at least one of" means either one option or any combination of two or more options.

[0101] [Note] The following describes the technical concepts and their effects as understood from the embodiments and modifications described above. These technical concepts and their effects can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other.

[0102] [1] The liquid container comprises a liquid container section for containing liquid, a float section provided within the liquid container section and floating on the liquid contained in the liquid container section and displacing vertically, a first magnetic material provided within the liquid container section and linked to the vertical displacement of the float section, a second magnetic material provided outside the liquid container section and linked to the vertical displacement of the first magnetic material, and a sensor provided outside the liquid container section that detects a value corresponding to the liquid level of the liquid contained in the liquid container section in accordance with the vertical displacement of the second magnetic material.

[0103] This configuration allows for the continuous detection of the vertical displacement of the float portion floating in the liquid contained within the liquid container, using a first magnetic material inside the liquid container and a second magnetic material and sensor outside the liquid container. This enables the continuous detection of a value corresponding to the liquid level in the liquid container. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0104] In addition, the float and first magnetic material located inside the liquid storage section can be linked non-contactually with the second magnetic material and sensor located outside the liquid storage section. This allows for continuous detection of a value corresponding to the liquid level contained in the liquid storage section without the need to install a sensor inside the liquid storage section. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0105] [2] The liquid container may further include a link member that rotates in accordance with the vertical displacement of the second magnetic material. This configuration further utilizes link members to continuously detect the vertical displacement of the float portion that floats in the liquid contained in the liquid reservoir. This allows for continuous detection of a value corresponding to the liquid level in the liquid reservoir. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0106] [3] In the above-mentioned liquid container, the link member may be provided on the outer surface of the liquid container. This configuration allows for the continuous detection of the vertical displacement of the float portion, which floats in the liquid contained within the liquid, using a link member outside the liquid containment section. This enables the continuous detection of a value corresponding to the liquid level in the liquid containment section. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0107] [4] The liquid container described above, wherein the sensor and the second magnetic material are connected by the link member, and the angle of the link member may change in accordance with the vertical displacement of the second magnetic material.

[0108] This configuration allows for the detection of vertical displacement of the float based on the angle of the link member. This enables continuous detection of the liquid level in the liquid reservoir without requiring a sensor to be installed within the reservoir. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0109] [5] The liquid container described above may be an angle sensor whose output changes in accordance with the angle change of the link member. This configuration can achieve the same effect as [4].

[0110] [6] The liquid container described above may have a variable resistor whose resistance value changes according to the vertical displacement of the second magnetic material, and a measuring unit for measuring the current or voltage in the variable resistor.

[0111] This configuration allows for the continuous detection of values ​​corresponding to the liquid level using a variable resistor. This enables miniaturization and cost reduction of the sensor. Consequently, the liquid container can also be miniaturized and cost-effective.

[0112] [7] The liquid container described above, wherein the float portion has a magnetic material containing chamber for containing the first magnetic material and an air chamber, and the magnetic material containing chamber and the air chamber may be provided in positions that overlap when viewed from the vertical direction.

[0113] This configuration allows for a simple setup that accommodates the first magnetic material while enabling the float to float more stably in the liquid contained within the liquid reservoir. This increases the reliability of the float floating in the liquid reservoir, thereby improving the accuracy of detecting values ​​corresponding to the liquid level.

[0114] [8] The liquid container described above, wherein the magnetic material container is located above the air chamber. This configuration can achieve the same effect as [7]. [9] The liquid container described above, wherein the magnetic material container is located below the air chamber. This configuration can achieve the same effect as [7].

[0115]

[10] The liquid container described above, wherein the liquid container portion may have a guide portion that guides the float portion so as to be displaceable in the vertical direction. This configuration increases the reliability of vertical displacement of the float. This allows the float to float more stably on the liquid contained within the liquid reservoir. Therefore, the accuracy of detecting values ​​corresponding to the liquid level can be improved.

[0116]

[11] A liquid dispensing device is a liquid dispensing device for detecting the liquid level of a liquid contained in a liquid container, which comprises a liquid container for containing a liquid, a float portion that floats on the liquid contained in the liquid container and is displaced vertically, and a first magnetic body that is linked to the vertical displacement of the float portion, and comprises a liquid dispensing portion for dispensing the liquid contained in the liquid container, a second magnetic body that is linked to the vertical displacement of the first magnetic body, a sensor that detects a value corresponding to the liquid level of the liquid contained in the liquid container in accordance with the vertical displacement of the second magnetic body, and a control unit that calculates the liquid level of the liquid contained in the liquid container based on the detection result of the sensor. With this configuration, the same effect as [1] can be achieved. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0117] 11…Liquid dispensing device, 12…Media, 13…Liquid dispensing section, 14…Head, 15…Nozzle, 16…Nozzle surface, 17…Media support section, 18…Transport section, 19…Supply channel, 21…Liquid container, 30…Liquid container section, 30a…Outer surface, 30b…Inner surface, 31…Liquid container chamber, 32…Support shaft, 40…Float section, 40a…First surface, 40b…Opening, 40c…Sealed lid, 41…First magnetic material, 42…Magnetic material container chamber, 43…Air chamber, 50…Guide section, 60…Liquid level detection device ,61...link member, 61a...first end, 61b...second end, 61c...elongated hole, 61d...holding part, 62...second magnetic material, 63...sensor, 70...link guide part, 71...first link guide part, 72...second link guide part, 81...variable resistor, 82...measuring part, 90...control part, +d...positive angle, -d...negative angle, L...liquid level, L1...first liquid level, L2...second liquid level, X1...first width direction, X2...second width direction, Y1...forward, Y2...rearward, Z1...upward, Z2...downward.

Claims

1. A liquid storage section for containing liquid, A float portion provided within the liquid storage portion and which floats on the liquid contained in the liquid storage portion and displaces vertically, A first magnetic material provided within the liquid storage section and linked to the vertical displacement of the float section, A second magnetic material is provided outside the liquid containment section and is linked to the vertical displacement of the first magnetic material, A sensor provided outside the liquid storage section, which detects a value corresponding to the liquid level of the liquid stored in the liquid storage section in accordance with the vertical displacement of the second magnetic material, Equipped with, A liquid container characterized by the following features.

2. A liquid container according to claim 1, The device further comprises a link member that rotates in accordance with the vertical displacement of the second magnetic material. A liquid container characterized by the following features.

3. A liquid container according to claim 2, The link member is provided on the outer surface of the liquid storage portion. A liquid container characterized by the following features.

4. A liquid container according to claim 2 or claim 3, The sensor and the second magnetic material are connected by the link member. The angle of the link member changes according to the vertical displacement of the second magnetic material. A liquid container characterized by the following features.

5. A liquid container according to claim 4, The aforementioned sensor is an angle sensor whose output changes in accordance with the angle change of the link member. A liquid container characterized by the following features.

6. A liquid container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The sensor comprises a variable resistor whose resistance changes according to the vertical displacement of the second magnetic material, and a measuring unit for measuring the current or voltage in the variable resistor. A liquid container characterized by the following features.

7. A liquid container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The float portion has a magnetic material housing chamber for housing the first magnetic material and an air chamber. The magnetic material containment chamber and the air chamber are located in positions that overlap when viewed from the vertical direction. A liquid container characterized by the following features.

8. A liquid container according to claim 7, The magnetic material containment chamber is located above the air chamber. A liquid container characterized by the following features.

9. A liquid container according to claim 7, The magnetic material housing chamber is located below the air chamber. A liquid container characterized by the following features.

10. A liquid container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The liquid storage section has a guide section that guides the float section so that it can be displaced in the vertical direction. A liquid container characterized by the following features.

11. A liquid dispensing device for detecting the liquid level of a liquid contained in a liquid container, comprising: a liquid container for containing a liquid; a float portion that floats on the liquid contained in the liquid container and displaces vertically; and a first magnetic body that is linked to the vertical displacement of the float portion, A liquid dispensing unit for dispensing the liquid contained in the liquid container, A second magnetic material which is linked to the displacement of the first magnetic material in the vertical direction, A sensor that detects a value corresponding to the liquid level of the liquid contained in the liquid container in accordance with the vertical displacement of the second magnetic material, A control unit that calculates the liquid level of the liquid contained in the liquid storage section based on the detection results of the aforementioned sensor, Equipped with, A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

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