Storage bag

Abstract

This product provides a storage bag that prevents ink leakage from the ink supply port simply by placing the ink cartridge inside, and also protects the ink cartridge from damage. [Solution] The storage bag 1 comprises an outer bag 12, an inner bag 14, a zipper 13 capable of sealing the opened opening 21, and an ink leak prevention member 15 located at the bottom 35 of the inner bag 14. The ink cartridge 2 has an ink outlet 7 that opens forward and a valve 5 that can open and close the ink outlet 7. In the installed position, the ink outlet 7 is located at the lower end in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge 2 and is located behind the front end 2B of the ink cartridge 2. The inner surface of the inner bag 14 has a shape that conforms to the external shape of the ink cartridge 2 when it is inserted forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14. The ink leak prevention member 15 has a closing surface 15A that blocks the ink outlet 7 when the ink cartridge 2 is inserted forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a storage bag capable of storing an ink cartridge.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a consumable container provided with a container case and a cartridge lid. The container case is capable of storing an ink cartridge. The cartridge lid is attachable to the container case and seals an ink supply port of the ink cartridge. In the consumable container of Patent Document 1, after the ink cartridge is stored in the container case, the cartridge lid is attached to the container case. Thereby, leakage of ink from the ink supply port is prevented. The ink cartridge stored in the container case is returned to a recycler for recycling.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the consumable container of Patent Document 1, after the used ink cartridge is stored in the container case, it is necessary to attach the cartridge lid to the container case. Therefore, the return work of the ink cartridge is troublesome. Also, the user may forget to attach the cartridge lid to the container case. In this case, during transportation of the ink cartridge, ink is likely to leak from the ink supply port, and the surface of the ink cartridge is likely to be contaminated by the ink. Also, due to vibrations during transportation of the ink cartridge, etc., the ink cartridge may move inside the container case and the ink cartridge may be damaged.

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a storage bag that can suppress ink leakage from the ink supply port simply by placing the ink cartridge in the bag, and that also prevents damage to the ink cartridge. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] (1) This disclosure relates to a storage bag. The storage bag comprises a bag capable of storing an ink cartridge that is removable for use with an inkjet printer, a sealing member capable of sealing an opened opening, and an ink leakage prevention member located at the bottom of the internal space of the bag. The ink cartridge has an ink outlet that opens in the direction in which it is installed in the inkjet printer, and a valve that can open and close the ink outlet. The ink outlet is located at the lower end in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge when the ink cartridge is installed in the inkjet printer, and is located away from the first end of the ink cartridge in the installation direction in the detachment direction opposite to the installation direction. The inner surface of the bag has a shape that conforms to the external shape of the ink cartridge when it is inserted into the internal space of the bag in the installation direction. The ink leakage prevention member has a closing surface that blocks the ink outlet when the ink cartridge is inserted into the internal space of the bag in the installation direction.

[0007] The user simply inserts the ink cartridge into the bag's internal space in the loading direction, and the sealing surface of the ink leak prevention component blocks the ink outlet. This prevents, for example, other components from accidentally pressing the valve due to vibrations during transport. As a result, ink leakage from the ink outlet is suppressed. Even if ink does leak from the outlet, it is prevented from leaking outside the bag. Furthermore, the user can seal the bag with the sealing component, preventing the ink cartridge from falling out of the bag's internal space. The external shape of the ink cartridge inserted into the bag's internal space in the loading direction conforms to the inner surface of the bag, making it difficult for the ink cartridge to move within the bag's internal space. Therefore, for example, damage caused by the ink cartridge coming into contact with the inner surface of the bag due to vibrations during transport is suppressed.

[0008] (2) The occluding surface may be larger than the ink outlet.

[0009] The ink leak prevention component is prevented from entering the ink outlet. Therefore, for example, vibrations during transport of the ink cartridge make it less likely for the ink leak prevention component to accidentally press against the valve. Consequently, ink leakage from the ink outlet is suppressed.

[0010] (3) The above-mentioned ink leakage prevention member may be made of an ink-absorbing material.

[0011] Even if ink leaks from the ink outlet, it is absorbed by the ink leak prevention component, so the surface of the ink cartridge is less likely to be stained with ink. Examples of materials that absorb ink include sponges and superabsorbent polymers.

[0012] (4) The ink leakage prevention member may be made of a material that can be welded to the ink outlet.

[0013] The user can, for example, weld the sealing surface to the ink outlet using the heat of a hairdryer. This keeps the sealing surface blocking the ink outlet, making it less likely to shift relative to the ink outlet due to vibrations during transport of the ink cartridge. A material that can be welded to the ink outlet is, for example, a hot melt adhesive.

[0014] (5) The sealing member may be a zipper that extends in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction connecting the opening and the bottom of the bag in the internal space.

[0015] The user can easily seal the opening with the zipper.

[0016] (6) The sealing member may include an adhesive applied to the inner surface of the bag and a release tape that is peelably attached to the inner surface of the bag via the adhesive.

[0017] The user peels off the release tape from the inside of the bag and sticks the insides of the bags together. This makes it easier for the user to seal the opening compared to sealing the opening with separately prepared tape.

[0018] (7) The length in the width direction of the internal space of the bag may be shorter than the length in the mounting direction of the ink cartridge from the second end in the removal direction to the first end in the mounting direction.

[0019] Since users cannot insert the ink cartridge into the bag's internal space vertically, it is easier to insert the ink cartridge into the bag's internal space in the correct orientation.

[0020] (8) The bottom of the bag may have a bottom portion that contacts the first end of the ink cartridge in the mounting direction, which is inserted into the bag's internal space through the opening, in the mounting direction, and a stepped portion that protrudes from the bottom portion in the longitudinal direction. The ink leakage prevention member may be located on the protruding end face of the stepped portion.

[0021] Even if the ink outlet is far from the first end in the insertion direction of the ink cartridge in the removal direction, the sealing surface can block the ink outlet. The inner surface of the bag tends to conform to the external shape of the ink cartridge when it is inserted into the internal space of the bag in the insertion direction.

[0022] (9) The length in the width direction within the internal space of the bag may be shorter than the sum of the length in the vertical direction connecting the upper and lower ends of the ink cartridge and the length in the width direction of the stepped portion.

[0023] When the ink cartridge is inserted into the internal space of the bag in the direction of installation, it is difficult for it to move in the width direction of the bag. Therefore, damage to the ink cartridge is further suppressed.

[0024] (10) The length in the longitudinal direction between the zipper and the bottom of the bag may be shorter than the sum of the length in the mounting direction between the first end and the second end of the ink cartridge and the length in the longitudinal direction between the closing surface and the bottom.

[0025] When the user accidentally inserts the ink cartridge into the inner space of the bag in the removal direction, the second end in the removal direction of the ink cartridge contacts the closing surface of the ink leakage prevention member. For this reason, the ink cartridge protrudes from the zipper. Therefore, since the user cannot seal the opening with the zipper, the user recognizes that the posture of inserting the ink cartridge into the inner space of the bag is incorrect. Therefore, it is easy for the user to insert the ink cartridge into the inner space of the bag in the correct posture.

[0026] (11) The material of the bag may be any of a film made of PET resin, PP resin, aluminum, or PE resin laminated on paper, i.e., PE laminate paper, or paper laminated with an aluminum vapor-deposited film obtained by vapor-depositing aluminum on a PP film made of PP resin.

[0027] Compared with a paper bag, it has good gas barrier properties, waterproof properties, and moisture-proof properties.

[0028] (12) The bag may have a laminate structure in which a plurality of thermoplastic resin films are laminated.

[0029] The bag has good gas barrier properties, waterproof properties, and moisture-proof properties.

[0030] (13) The bag may have a light transmission portion that transmits light.

[0031] The user can easily check the color of the ink remaining in the ink cartridge, the memory element storing the cartridge information, and the barcode encoding the cartridge information from outside the bag. For this reason, reuse is easy.

[0032] (14) The bag may have the address of the company that will reuse the ink cartridges printed on it.

[0033] Users can easily mail used ink cartridges to companies that reuse them. Therefore, compared to collecting used ink cartridges in collection boxes, users do not need to sort them by reuse company. Thus, ink cartridge reuse is easier.

[0034] (15) The bag may also have an illustration showing the orientation in which the ink cartridge is placed in the bag.

[0035] The user can easily insert the ink cartridge into the internal space of the pouch in the correct orientation.

[0036] (16) The ink stored in the above ink cartridge may contain a coloring agent consisting of one or more of pigments and dyes.

[0037] This effectively prevents ink cartridge contamination by colorants.

[0038] (17) The above pigment may be a resin-dispersible pigment or a self-dispersible pigment.

[0039] This effectively suppresses contamination of ink cartridges with resin-dispersed pigments or self-dispersing pigments.

[0040] (18) The amount of the above coloring agent may be 40% by weight or less.

[0041] Even if ink leaks from the ink cartridge, contamination of the ink cartridge's surface is suppressed.

[0042] (19) The viscosity of the above ink may be in the range of 1 mPa·s to 8 mPa·s.

[0043] This prevents ink from leaking from the ink outlet.

[0044] (20) The surface tension of the above ink may be in the range of 20 mN / m or more and 45 mN / m or less.

[0045] This prevents ink from leaking from the ink outlet.

[0046] (21) The above ink may be a dye ink. The above dye may be a direct dye, an acid dye, a basic dye, or a reactive dye.

[0047] Even if dye-based ink adheres to the surface of the ink cartridge, users can easily wipe it off. This helps to prevent the ink cartridge surface from becoming contaminated with dye-based ink.

[0048] (22) The present disclosure relates to a storage bag. The storage bag comprises a bag capable of storing an ink cartridge that is removable for an inkjet printer, and a sealing member capable of sealing the bag. The ink cartridge has an ink outlet that opens in the direction in which it is installed in the inkjet printer, and a valve that can open and close the ink outlet. The ink outlet is located at the lower end in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge when the ink cartridge is installed in the inkjet printer, and is located away from the end of the ink cartridge in the direction of installation in the direction of removal. The inner surface of the bag has a shape that conforms to the external shape of the ink cartridge when it is inserted into the internal space of the bag in the direction of installation. When the ink cartridge is inserted into the internal space of the bag in the direction of installation, there is a space between the ink outlet and the bottom of the internal space of the bag.

[0049] Because there is space between the ink outlet of the ink cartridge inserted into the bag's internal space in the loading direction and the bottom of the bag's internal space, there are no other components near the ink outlet. Therefore, for example, vibrations during transport of the ink cartridge prevent other components from pressing against the valve. As a result, simply inserting the ink cartridge into the bag's internal space in the loading direction prevents ink from leaking from the ink outlet. Even if ink does leak from the ink outlet, it is prevented from leaking outside the bag. In addition, the user can seal the bag with a sealing component, preventing the ink cartridge from falling out of the bag's internal space. The external shape of the ink cartridge inserted into the bag's internal space in the loading direction conforms to the inner surface of the bag, making it difficult for the ink cartridge to move within the bag's internal space. Therefore, for example, damage caused by the ink cartridge coming into contact with the inner surface of the bag due to vibrations during transport is prevented.

[0050] (23) The bottom of the bag's internal space may have a bottom portion that contacts the first end of the ink cartridge inserted into the bag's internal space in the mounting direction, and a stepped portion that protrudes from the bottom portion toward the opening. The space may exist between the ink outlet and the protruding end face of the stepped portion.

[0051] Even if the ink outlet is far from the end of the ink cartridge in the insertion direction and far from the removal direction, the external shape of the ink cartridge conforms to the inner surface of the bag due to the stepped portion. Therefore, damage caused by the ink cartridge coming into contact with the inner surface of the bag due to vibrations during transport is further suppressed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0052] According to this disclosure, simply placing the ink cartridge in a bag can suppress ink leakage from the ink supply port, and the ink cartridge is less likely to be damaged. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0053] [Figure 1]Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a new ink cartridge 2 stored in a storage bag 1 before opening. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the mounting position of the ink cartridge 2 when it is installed in the inkjet printer 11. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge 2, obtained by cutting it with a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the storage bag 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the opened storage bag 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing that the ink cartridge 2 cannot be inserted vertically into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing that the ink cartridge 2 can be inserted in the front-to-back direction into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the ink cartridge 2 is inserted forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the ink cartridge 2 has been mistakenly inserted backward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the opening in Figure 8 sealed by the sealing member. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of a storage bag 1. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the storage bag 1. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the storage bag 1. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a partially schematic diagram showing a modified example of the storage bag 1. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of a storage bag 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0054] The following describes in detail a storage bag 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. It goes without saying that the following embodiment is merely one example of the present invention, and the embodiment can be modified as appropriate without changing the gist of the present invention.

[0055] As shown in Figure 1, the storage bag 1 is used to store the ink cartridge 2 before use. In other words, the storage bag 1 is used as a transport bag for new ink cartridges 2. On the other hand, after opening, the storage bag 1 is used as a mailing bag for used ink cartridges 2.

[0056] As shown in Figure 2, the ink cartridge 2 is detachable from the inkjet printer 11. Hereinafter, the direction in which the ink cartridge 2 is installed in the inkjet printer 11 is referred to as the front. The direction in which the ink cartridge 2 is removed from the inkjet printer 11 is referred to as the rear. The front and rear together are referred to as the front-rear direction. The vertical direction of the ink cartridge 2 is defined when the ink cartridge 2 is installed in the inkjet printer 11. The left-right direction is defined when viewing the installed ink cartridge 2 from the front. The front is an example of the installation direction. The rear is an example of the removal direction.

[0057] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the ink cartridge 2 has a housing 3, an ink outlet 4, and a valve 5. The housing 3 is box-shaped. The lower end of the housing 3 has a recess 3A that extends rearward from the front end 2B of the housing 3. The length L1 in the front-to-back direction between the front end 2B and the rear end 2A of the housing 3 is longer than the length L2 in the vertical direction between the upper end 2C and the lower end 2D of the housing 3. The vertical length L2 of the housing 3 is longer than the left-to-right length L3 of the housing 3. The housing 3 has an ink storage chamber 6 for storing ink.

[0058] The ink outlet section 4 is located at the lower end of the housing 3. In this embodiment, the ink outlet section 4 is located in the recess 3A. Alternatively, the ink outlet section 4 may be located on the lower end surface of the housing 3. The lower end of the ink outlet section 4 coincides with the lower end of the housing 3 in the vertical direction. The ink outlet section 4 is cylindrical in shape, defining the ink outlet 7.

[0059] The ink outlet 7 opens towards the front. The ink outlet 7 is located away from the front end 2B of the housing 3. The ink outlet 7 communicates with the ink storage chamber 6. The ink outlet 7 is circular. Ink flows out of the ink outlet 7 from the ink storage chamber 6. A memory element 8 is located at the top end of the housing 3. The memory element 8 stores cartridge information.

[0060] Valve 5 is located in the internal space of the ink outlet section 4. Valve 5 can open and close the ink outlet 7. Specifically, valve 5 has a valve body 5A, a valve seat 5B, and a biasing member 5C. Valve body 5A is movable in the front-rear direction between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, valve body 5A closes the ink outlet 7. In the open position, valve body 5A opens the ink outlet 7. Valve seat 5B is fixed to the inner surface of the ink outlet section 4 behind valve body 5A.

[0061] The biasing member 5C is a coil spring that can be compressed in the front-rear direction. One end of the biasing member 5C is supported by the valve seat 5B. The other end of the biasing member 5C is supported by the valve body 5A. The biasing member 5C biases the valve body 5A to the closed position. As a result, when the valve body 5A is pressed from front to rear, it moves from the closed position to the open position against the biasing force of the biasing member 5C.

[0062] The ink stored in the ink storage chamber 6 contains one or more of the following: a colorant, water, a water-soluble organic solvent, and a water-insoluble organic solvent. The ink may be an aqueous ink containing a colorant, water, and a water-soluble organic solvent, or an oil-based ink containing a colorant and a water-insoluble organic solvent. The ink may also be a pigment ink or a dye ink. The water-insoluble organic solvent is not particularly limited as long as it is water-insoluble.

[0063] The coloring agent includes one or more types of pigments and dyes. For example, pigments include carbon black, inorganic pigments, and organic pigments. Carbon black includes, for example, furnace black, lamp black, acetylene black, and channel black. Inorganic pigments include, for example, titanium dioxide, iron oxide-based inorganic pigments, and carbon black-based inorganic pigments. Organic pigments include, for example, azo pigments such as azo lakes, insoluble azo pigments, condensed azo pigments, and chelate azo pigments; polycyclic pigments such as phthalocyanine pigments, perylene and perinone pigments, anthraquinone pigments, quinacridone pigments, dioxazine pigments, thioindigo pigments, isoindolinone pigments, and quinophthalone pigments; dye lake pigments such as basic dye-type lake pigments and acid dye-type lake pigments; nitro pigments; nitroso pigments; aniline black daylight fluorescent pigments; and the like. As pigments, for example, resin-dispersible pigments that can be dispersed in water using a pigment dispersion resin are preferably used.

[0064] Self-dispersing pigments may be used as pigments. Self-dispersing pigments are those that can be dispersed in water without the use of a dispersant. Self-dispersing pigments are, for example, pigment particles into which at least one of a hydrophilic functional group such as a carbonyl group, a hydroxyl group, a carboxylic acid group, a sulfonic acid group, or a phosphate group, and their salts, are introduced directly or via other groups by chemical bonding.

[0065] Self-dispersing pigments can be used if the pigment has been treated by the method described in the following published patents. These published patents include, for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 8-3498, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2000-513396, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-524400, and Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-515007. Both inorganic and organic pigments can be used as raw materials for self-dispersing pigments.

[0066] The dyes are, for example, direct dyes, acid dyes, basic dyes, or reactive dyes. One or more of the pigments and dyes may be included in the water-soluble ink. Specific examples of the dyes include, for example, CI Direct Black, CI Direct Blue, CI Direct Red, CI Direct Yellow, CI Direct Orange, CI Direct Violet, CI Direct Brown, CI Direct Green, CI Acid Black, CI Acid Blue, CI Acid Red, CI Acid Yellow, CI Acid Orange, CI Acid Violet, CI Basic Black, CI Basic Blue, CI Basic Red, CI Basic Violet, and CI Food Black.

[0067] Examples of CI Direct Black include CI Direct Black 17, 19, 32, 51, 71, 108, 146, 154, and 168. Examples of CI Direct Blue include CI Direct Blue 6, 22, 25, 71, 86, 90, 106, and 199. Examples of CI Direct Red include CI Direct Red 1, 4, 17, 28, 83, and 227. Examples of CI Direct Yellow include CI Direct Yellow 12, 24, 26, 86, 98, 132, 142, and 173. Examples of CI Direct Orange include CI Direct Orange 34, 39, 44, 46, and 60. Examples of CI Direct Violet include CI Direct Violet 47 and 48. Examples of CI Direct Brown include CI Direct Brown 109. Examples of CI Direct Green include CI Direct Green 59. Examples of CI Acid Black include CI Acid Black 2, 7, 24, 26, 31, 52, 63, 112, and 118. Examples of CI Acid Blue include CI Acid Blue 9, 22, 40, 59, 90, 93, 102, 104, 117, 120, 167, 229, and 234. Examples of CI Acid Red include CI Acid Red 1, 6, 32, 37, 51, 52, 80, 85, 87, 92, 94, 115, 180, 256, 289, 315, and 317. Examples of CI Acid Yellow include CI Acid Yellow 11, 17, 23, 25, 29, 42, 61, and 71. Examples of the aforementioned CI Acid Orange include CI Acid Orange 7 and 19. Examples of the aforementioned CI Acid Violet include CI Acid Violet 49. Examples of the aforementioned CI Basic Black include CI Basic Black 2.Examples of the aforementioned CI Basic Blue include CI Basic Blue 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 24, 25, 26, 28, and 29. Examples of the aforementioned CI Basic Red include CI Basic Red 1, 2, 9, 12, 13, 14, and 37. Examples of the aforementioned CI Basic Violet include CI Basic Violet 7, 14, and 27. Examples of the aforementioned CI Hood Black include CI Hood Black 1 and 2.

[0068] The aforementioned water-soluble organic solvent is, for example, a wetting agent that prevents the drying of aqueous ink at the nozzle tip of an inkjet head and a penetrating agent that adjusts the drying rate on the recording medium.

[0069] The wetting agent is not particularly limited and includes, for example, lower alcohols such as methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, n-propyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, n-butyl alcohol, sec-butyl alcohol, and tert-butyl alcohol; amides such as dimethylformamide and dimethylacetamide; ketones such as acetone; keto alcohols such as diacetone alcohol; ethers such as tetrahydrofuran and dioxane; polyhydric alcohols such as polyalkylene glycol, alkylene glycol, glycerin, and trimethylolpropane; 2-pyrrolidone; N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone; and 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone. The polyalkylene glycol includes, for example, polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol. The alkylene glycol includes, for example, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, thiodiglycol, and hexylene glycol. The wetting agent may be used alone or in combination of two or more types. The above-mentioned humectant is preferably a polyhydric alcohol such as alkylene glycol or glycerin.

[0070] Examples of the penetrating agent include glycol ethers. Examples of glycol ethers include ethylene glycol methyl ether, ethylene glycol ethyl ether, ethylene glycol-n-propyl ether, diethylene glycol methyl ether, diethylene glycol ethyl ether, diethylene glycol-n-propyl ether, diethylene glycol-n-butyl ether, diethylene glycol-n-hexyl ether, triethylene glycol methyl ether, triethylene glycol ethyl ether, triethylene glycol-n-propyl ether, triethylene glycol-n-butyl ether, propylene glycol methyl ether, propylene glycol ethyl ether, propylene glycol-n-propyl ether, propylene glycol-n-butyl ether, dipropylene glycol methyl ether, dipropylene glycol ethyl ether, dipropylene glycol-n-propyl ether, dipropylene glycol-n-butyl ether, tripropylene glycol methyl ether, tripropylene glycol ethyl ether, tripropylene glycol-n-propyl ether, and tripropylene glycol-n-butyl ether. One type of penetrating agent may be used alone, or two or more types may be used in combination.

[0071] The aqueous ink may further contain conventionally known additives as needed. Examples of such additives include surfactants, pH adjusters, viscosity modifiers, surface tension modifiers, and antifungal agents. Examples of viscosity modifiers include polyvinyl alcohol, cellulose, and water-soluble resins.

[0072] The aqueous ink can be prepared by uniformly mixing, for example, a colorant, water, and a water-soluble organic solvent, along with other additive components as needed, using a conventionally known method. The aqueous ink can then be prepared by removing insoluble matter using a filter or the like.

[0073] The amount of colorant contained in the ink is preferably 40% by weight or less. The viscosity of the ink is preferably in the range of 1 mPa·s to 8 mPa·s. The surface tension of the ink is preferably in the range of 20 mN / m to 45 mN / m.

[0074] The storage bag 1 is capable of accommodating the ink cartridge 2. As shown in Figure 4, the storage bag 1 comprises an outer bag 12, a zipper 13, an inner bag 14, and an ink leak prevention member 15.

[0075] The outer bag 12 is constructed by welding the outer edges of two films together all the way around. The outer bag 12 is rectangular in shape, with lengths A and B being longer than the length C in the width direction. Length directions A and B are the directions connecting the bottom 20 of the outer bag 12 to the opposite end 22 of the outer bag 12. In other words, length directions A and B are the directions connecting the opening 21 (described later) to the bottom 35 in the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14. Hereafter, the direction from one end 22 of the outer bag 12 towards the bottom 20 of the outer bag 12 will be called the bottom direction A. The direction from the bottom 20 of the outer bag 12 towards one end 22 of the outer bag 12 will be called the top direction B. The width direction C is perpendicular to length directions A and B.

[0076] The outer bag 12 is made of PP resin. The outer bag 12 is flexible. The entire outer bag 12 is light-transmitting. The user can see the internal space 12A of the outer bag 12 from the outside.

[0077] As shown in Figure 1, the outer surface of the outer bag 12 has the recipient's address 17 printed on it. This makes it easy for the user to mail the ink cartridges 2, which are stored in the storage bag 1, to the reuse company. The reuse company is a company that reuses the ink cartridges 2. The outer surface of the outer bag 12 also has a diagram 18 illustrating the orientation in which the ink cartridges 2 are placed in the inner bag 14.

[0078] A notch 16 is located near one end of the outer bag 12. The notch 16 is located at one end of the outer bag 12 in the width direction C. The notch 16 is a cut that extends from one end to the other in the width direction C of the outer bag 12. This makes it easy for the user to cut the outer bag 12 in the width direction C using the notch 16. As shown in Figure 5, when the outer bag 12 is cut in the width direction C, an opening 21 is created into which the ink cartridge 2 can be inserted into the internal space 12A of the outer bag 12. The following explanation assumes that the opening 21 is open.

[0079] The zipper 13 is located in the internal space 12A of the outer bag 12. The zipper 13 is located in the bottom direction A of the notch 16. The zipper 13 extends in the width direction C from one end to the other of the outer bag 12 in the width direction C. Specifically, the zipper 13 has a fitting recess 13A and a fitting projection 13B.

[0080] The fitting recess 13A is fixed to the inner surface of one film. The fitting projection 13B is fixed to the inner surface of the other film. The fitting projection 13B can be fitted into the fitting recess 13A. The fitting projection 13B is removable from the fitting recess 13A. The zipper 13 seals the opening 21 of the outer bag 12 when the fitting projection 13B is fitted into the fitting recess 13A. In this way, the zipper 13 can seal the opening 21. The zipper 13 is an example of a sealing member.

[0081] The inner bag 14 is located in the internal space 12A of the outer bag 12. The inner bag 14 is close to the bottom A of the zipper 13. In other words, the zipper 13 is close to the top B end of the inner bag 14. The inner bag 14 is located in the center of the width C of the outer bag 12. The inner bag 14 is located in the center of the length A and B of the outer bag 12. The inner bag 14 is fixed to the inner surface of the outer bag 12.

[0082] The inner bag 14 is open in the apex direction B by welding the outer edges of the two films together. This allows the user to insert the ink cartridge 2 into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening 21.

[0083] The inner bag 14 is made of polypropylene. The inner bag 14 is flexible. The entire inner bag 14 is light-transmitting. The user can see the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 from the outside of the outer bag 12. The inner bag 14 is an example of a bag. The entire inner bag 14 is an example of a light-transmitting part.

[0084] The bottom 31 of the inner bag 14 extends in a stepped manner in the width direction C such that one portion is positioned higher in the apex direction B than the other portion is positioned higher in the width direction C than the center of the width direction C. As a result, the bottom 35 in the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 has a bottom portion 36 and a stepped portion 37.

[0085] The bottom portion 36 is located from the other end in the width direction C to one side of the center of the bottom 31 in the width direction C of the inner bag 14. The stepped portion 37 is adjacent to one end in the width direction C of the bottom portion 36. The stepped portion 37 is located from one end in the width direction C of the bottom portion 36 to one end in the width direction C of the bottom 35. The stepped portion 37 protrudes from the bottom portion 36 toward the top direction B.

[0086] Specifically, the stepped portion 37 has a stepped surface 37A and a protruding end surface 37B. The stepped surface 37A extends from one end in the width direction C of the bottom portion 36 to the top direction B. The protruding end surface 37B extends from the end of the stepped surface 37A in the top direction B to one end in the width direction C.

[0087] The ink leak prevention member 15 is located at the bottom 35 of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14. The ink leak prevention member 15 is located at one end of the bottom 35 in the width direction C of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14. The ink leak prevention member 15 is located at the protruding end face 37B of the stepped portion 37.

[0088] The ink leak prevention member 15 is made of rubber. The ink leak prevention member 15 is cylindrical in shape, extending in the longitudinal directions A and B. The end face of the ink leak prevention member 15 in the bottom direction A is hemispherical, bulging in the bottom direction A. The end face in the bottom direction A may be flat. The ink leak prevention member 15 may also be cubic or rectangular. The outer surface of the ink leak prevention member 15 has a closing surface 15A and a fixing surface 15B.

[0089] The closure surface 15A is the end face of the ink leakage prevention member 15 in the apex direction B. The closure surface 15A is a circular plane facing in the apex direction B. The closure surface 15A is larger than the ink outlet 7. Specifically, the area of ​​the closure surface 15A is larger than the area of ​​the imaginary surface defined by the ink outflow section 4 and the ink outlet 7. The fixing surface 15B is the part in the bottom direction A than the closure surface 15A. The fixing surface 15B is welded to the inner surface of the inner bag 14.

[0090] Specifically, the fixing surface 15B is welded to the protruding end surface 37B, the inner surface of one film, and the inner surface of the other film. The ink leakage prevention member 15 may be slightly separated from the protruding end surface 37B in the apex direction B. In this case, the fixing surface 15B does not need to be welded to the protruding end surface 37B.

[0091] As shown in Figures 2 and 6, the length L4 in the width direction C of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 is shorter than the length L1 in the front-to-back direction of the ink cartridge 2. As a result, the user cannot insert the ink cartridge 2 vertically into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening 21.

[0092] As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 7, the length L4 in the width direction C of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 is longer than the vertical length L2 of the ink cartridge 2. The lengths L5 in the length directions A and B between the bottom 36 of the inner bag 14 and the zipper 13 are slightly longer than the front-to-back length L1 of the ink cartridge 2. The lengths L7 in the length directions A and B between the closing surface 15A and the bottom 36 are equal to the front-to-back length L8 between the front end 2B of the ink cartridge 2 and the ink outlet 7.

[0093] This allows the user to insert the ink cartridge 2 forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening 21. Specifically, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the user inserts the ink cartridge 2 forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening 21. In this state, the front end 2B of the ink cartridge 2 contacts the bottom 36 of the inner bag 14. The front end 2B of the ink cartridge 2 may be slightly separated from the bottom 36 in the vertex direction B. At the same time, the front end of the ink outlet 4 contacts the closing surface 15A. As a result, the closing surface 15A completely blocks the ink outlet 7. The front end is an example of a first end.

[0094] As shown in Figure 8, the length L4 in the width direction C of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 is shorter than the sum of L2 and length L6. L2 is the vertical length of the ink cartridge 2. Length L6 is the width direction C of the stepped portion 37. As a result, when the ink cartridge 2 is inserted in the front-to-back direction into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening 21, the ink cartridge 2 is less likely to move in the width direction C. In this state, the inner surface of the inner bag 14 conforms to the external shape of the ink cartridge 2.

[0095] As shown in Figure 9, the length L5 in the longitudinal directions A and B between the bottom 36 of the inner bag 14 and the zipper 13 is shorter than the sum of the lengths L1 and L7. Length L1 is the length of the ink cartridge 2 in the front-to-back direction. Length L7 is the length in the longitudinal directions A and B between the closing surface 15A and the bottom 36. As a result, if the ink cartridge 2 is mistakenly inserted backward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening 21, the rear end 2A of the ink cartridge 2 will come into contact with the closing surface 15A. Consequently, the ink cartridge 2 will protrude upward B from the zipper 13, preventing the user from sealing the opening 21 with the zipper 13. The rear end 2A is an example of a second end.

[0096] Next, we will explain how to use the storage bag 1. As shown in Figure 1, the storage bag 1 in its initial state is unopened. That is, the storage bag 1 contains a new ink cartridge 2. The closing surface 15A of the ink leak prevention member 15 completely blocks the ink outlet 7 of the new ink cartridge 2.

[0097] First, the user cuts the outer bag 12 in the width direction C using the notch 16. As a result, an opening 21 is created in the storage bag 1. Next, the user removes the new ink cartridge 2 from the inner bag 14 through the opening 21. Then, the user sees the figure 18 on the outer surface of the outer bag 12, which indicates the orientation in which the ink cartridge 2 is placed in the inner bag 14. This allows the user to understand the orientation in which the ink cartridge 2 is inserted into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14.

[0098] Next, as shown in Figure 7, the user inserts the used ink cartridge 2 forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening 21. As a result, as shown in Figure 8, the front end of the ink outlet 4 comes into contact with the closing surface 15A. This completely seals the ink outlet 7 with the closing surface 15A. Then, as shown in Figure 10, the user seals the opening 21 by fitting the fitting projection 13B of the zipper 13 into the fitting recess 13A.

[0099] Finally, the user affixes a postage stamp to the outside of the outer bag 12 and mails the used ink cartridges 2 contained in the storage bag 1. The reuse company removes the received used ink cartridges 2 from the storage bag 1 and reuses the used ink cartridges 2.

[0100] On the other hand, Figure 9 shows a state in which the ink cartridge 2 is incorrectly inserted backward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening 21. In this case, the rear end 2A of the ink cartridge 2 comes into contact with the closing surface 15A. As a result, the ink cartridge 2 protrudes upward B from the zipper 13. Consequently, the user is unable to seal the opening 21 with the zipper 13. This causes the user to realize that the orientation in which the ink cartridge 2 was inserted into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 is incorrect. The user then removes the ink cartridge 2 from the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 and reinserts the ink cartridge 2 into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 in the correct orientation.

[0101] [Effects of this embodiment] In the above embodiment, the user simply inserts the ink cartridge 2 forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14, and the closing surface 15A blocks the ink outlet 7. Therefore, for example, vibrations during transport of a new or used ink cartridge 2 make it difficult for other components to accidentally press the valve 5. As a result, ink is less likely to leak from the ink outlet 7. Even if ink does leak from the ink outlet 7, since the ink cartridge 2 is contained in the storage bag 1, the leaked ink is less likely to leak outside the storage bag 1. The external shape of the ink cartridge 2 inserted forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 conforms to the inner surface of the inner bag 14. Therefore, the ink cartridge 2 is less likely to move within the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14. Consequently, damage caused by the ink cartridge 2 coming into contact with the inner surface of the inner bag 14 due to vibrations during transport is suppressed. In addition, the user can seal the storage bag 1 with the zipper 13. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the ink cartridge 2 from falling out of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening 21 to the outside.

[0102] In the above embodiment, since the closing surface 15A is larger than the ink outlet 7, the ink leakage prevention member 15 is less likely to enter the ink outlet 7. For this reason, for example, vibrations during the transport of the ink cartridge 2 make it less likely for the ink leakage prevention member 15 to accidentally press against the valve 5. Therefore, ink leakage from the ink outlet 7 is suppressed.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the storage bag 1 is equipped with a zipper 13 that extends in the width direction C, making it easy for the user to seal the opening 21 with the zipper 13.

[0104] In the above embodiment, the length L1 in the width direction C of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 is shorter than the length L2 of the ink cartridge 2 in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, the user cannot insert the ink cartridge 2 into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 in the vertical direction. Consequently, the user can easily insert the ink cartridge 2 into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 in the correct orientation.

[0105] In the above embodiment, the bottom 35 of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 has a stepped portion 37 that protrudes from the bottom portion 36 toward the top B. The ink leak prevention member 15 is located at the protruding end face 37B of the stepped portion 37. Therefore, even if the ink outlet 7 is far behind the front end 2B of the ink cartridge 2, the closing surface 15A of the ink leak prevention member 15 can block the ink outlet 7. The inner surface of the inner bag 14 tends to conform to the external shape of the ink cartridge 2 inserted forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14. Therefore, for example, damage caused by the ink cartridge coming into contact with the inner surface of the inner bag 14 due to vibration during transport is further suppressed.

[0106] In the above embodiment, the length L4 in the width direction C of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 is shorter than the sum of the lengths L2 and L6. Length L2 is the vertical length of the ink cartridge 2. Length L6 is the length in the width direction C of the stepped portion 37. Therefore, when the ink cartridge 2 is inserted forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14, it is difficult for it to move in the width direction C of the inner bag 14. Consequently, damage to the ink cartridge 2 is further suppressed.

[0107] In the above embodiment, the lengths L5 in the longitudinal directions A and B between the bottom 36 of the inner bag 14 and the zipper 13 are shorter than the sum of lengths L1 and L7. Length L1 is the length of the ink cartridge 2 in the front-to-back direction. Length L7 is the lengths A and B in the longitudinal directions between the closing surface 15A and the bottom 36. Therefore, if the user mistakenly inserts the ink cartridge 2 backward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14, the rear end 2A of the ink cartridge 2 will come into contact with the closing surface 15A. As a result, the ink cartridge 2 will protrude from the zipper 13. Therefore, the user will realize that the orientation in which the ink cartridge 2 is inserted into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 is incorrect, as the opening 21 cannot be sealed by the zipper 13. Therefore, the user will find it easier to insert the ink cartridge 2 into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 in the correct orientation.

[0108] In the above embodiment, since the material of the inner bag 14 and the material of the outer bag 12 are PP resin, they have better gas barrier properties, waterproofing properties, and moisture resistance compared to paper bags.

[0109] In the above embodiment, both the inner bag 14 and the outer bag 12 are transparent to light. Therefore, the user can easily check the color of the ink remaining in the ink cartridge 2 and the memory element 8 that stores the cartridge information from outside the outer bag 12. Thus, reuse is easy.

[0110] In the above embodiment, the recipient's address 17 for the reuse company is printed on the outside of the outer bag 12, making it easy for the user to mail the used ink cartridge 2 to the reuse company. Therefore, compared to collecting the used ink cartridge 2 in a collection box, there is no need to sort the used ink cartridge 2 for each reuse company. Thus, the reuse of the ink cartridge 2 is easy.

[0111] In the above embodiment, the outer surface of the outer bag 12 shows the orientation in which the ink cartridge 2 is housed in the inner bag 14. Therefore, the user can easily insert the ink cartridge 2 into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 in the correct orientation.

[0112] In the above embodiment, the ink stored in the ink cartridge 2 contains a coloring agent consisting of one or more types of pigments and dyes. Therefore, contamination of the ink cartridge 2 by the coloring agent is effectively suppressed.

[0113] In the above embodiment, the ink pigment is a resin-dispersed pigment or a self-dispersing pigment. Therefore, contamination of the ink cartridge 2 with the resin-dispersed pigment or self-dispersing pigment is effectively suppressed.

[0114] In the above embodiment, the amount of colorant in the ink is 40% by weight or less. Therefore, even if ink leaks from the ink cartridge 2, the surface of the ink cartridge 2 is less likely to be contaminated with ink.

[0115] In the above embodiment, the viscosity of the ink is within the range of 1 mPa·s to 8 mPa·s. Therefore, ink is less likely to leak from the ink outlet 7.

[0116] In the above embodiment, the surface tension of the ink is in the range of 20 mN / m to 45 mN / m. Ink is less likely to leak from the ink outlet 7.

[0117] In the above embodiment, the ink dye is a direct dye, acid dye, basic dye, or reactive dye. Therefore, even if dye ink adheres to the surface of the ink cartridge 2, the user can easily wipe off the dye ink from the surface of the ink cartridge 2. Consequently, the surface of the ink cartridge 2 is less likely to be contaminated by dye ink.

[0118] [Differentiation] In the above embodiment, the storage bag 1 comprises an outer bag 12 and an inner bag 14, but as shown in Figure 11, the outer bag 12 may be omitted. In this case, the notch 16 and zipper 13 are located in the inner bag 14.

[0119] In the above embodiment, the closing surface 15A of the ink leakage prevention member 15 completely blocks the ink outlet 7, but it is sufficient if it blocks only a part of the ink outlet 7. In this case, the closing surface 15A may be smaller than the ink outlet 7.

[0120] In the above embodiment, the ink leak prevention member 15 was made of rubber, but it is not limited to rubber. For example, the ink leak prevention member 15 may be made of an ink-absorbing material. For example, ink-absorbing materials include sponge and water-absorbent polymer. In this case, even if ink leaks from the ink outlet 7, the leaked ink is absorbed by the ink leak prevention member 15. Therefore, the surface of the ink cartridge 2 is less likely to be stained with ink.

[0121] In the above embodiment, the ink leakage prevention member 15 may be made of a material that can be welded to the open end of the ink outlet section 4 that defines the ink outlet 7. For example, the material that can be welded to the ink outlet 7 is a hot melt adhesive. In this case, the user welds the open end of the ink outlet section 4 to the closing surface 15A using, for example, the heat of a dryer. In this way, the closing surface 15A is maintained in a state that blocks the ink outlet 7. For this reason, for example, vibrations during the transport of the ink cartridge 2 make it difficult for the closing surface 15A to shift relative to the ink outlet 7.

[0122] In the above embodiment, the storage bag 1 is equipped with an ink leak prevention member 15, but as shown in Figure 12, the ink leak prevention member 15 may be omitted. In this case, with the ink cartridge 2 inserted forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14, a space 39 exists between the ink outlet 7 and the protruding end face 37B. In this way, there are no other members near the ink outlet 7. Therefore, for example, vibrations during transport of the ink cartridge 2 make it less likely for other members to press against the valve 5. As a result, ink is less likely to leak from the ink outlet 7.

[0123] In the above embodiment, the opening 21 was sealed by a zipper 13, but it is not limited to a zipper 13 as long as the opening 21 can be sealed. For example, instead of a zipper 13, the opening 21 may be sealed with glue.

[0124] Specifically, as shown in Figure 13, the modified storage bag 1 has an adhesive 45 and a release tape 46. The adhesive 45 is applied to the inner surface of the outer bag 12. The release tape 46 is peelably attached to the inner surface of the outer bag 12 via the adhesive 45. In this way, the user peels off the release tape 46 from the inner surface of the outer bag 12 and sticks the inner surfaces of the outer bags 12 together. Therefore, the user can seal the opening 21 more easily than when sealing the opening 21 with a separately prepared tape. The adhesive and release tape are examples of sealing members.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the length L4 in the width direction C of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 is shorter than the length L1 in the front-to-back direction of the ink cartridge 2. However, the length L4 in the width direction C of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 may be slightly longer than the length L1 in the front-to-back direction of the ink cartridge 2.

[0126] In the above embodiment, the bottom 31 of the inner bag 14 extends in a stepped manner in the width direction C such that one portion is located in the apex direction B relative to the center of the width direction C than the other portion. However, as shown in Figure 14, the bottom 31 of the inner bag 14 may extend linearly in the width direction C from one end to the other. In this case, the stepped portion 37 may be formed by increasing the length L9 in the length directions A and B of the portion to which the bottom 31 of the inner bag 14 is welded. Also, as shown in Figure 15, the stepped portion 37 may be omitted. In this case, the ink leakage prevention member 15 may be made longer in the length directions A and B.

[0127] In the above embodiment, the length L4 in the width direction C of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 is shorter than the sum of the lengths L2 and L6. Length L2 is the vertical length of the ink cartridge 2. Length L6 is the length of the stepped portion 37 in the width direction C. However, the length L4 in the width direction C of the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 may be longer than the sum of the lengths L2 and L6.

[0128] In the above embodiment, the lengths L4 in the longitudinal directions A and B between the bottom 36 of the inner bag 14 and the zipper 13 are shorter than the sum of lengths L2 and L6. Length L2 is the length of the ink cartridge 2 in the front-to-back direction. Length L6 is the lengths A and B in the longitudinal directions between the closing surface 15A and the bottom 36. However, the lengths L4 in the longitudinal directions A and B between the bottom 36 of the inner bag 14 and the zipper 13 may be longer than the sum of lengths L2 and L6.

[0129] In the above embodiment, the outer bag 12 and inner bag 14 were constructed by welding the outer edges of two films together, but the method of constructing the outer bag 12 and inner bag 14 is not limited. For example, the outer bag 12 and inner bag 14 may be constructed by welding the bottom of a tubularly formed film together. Alternatively, the outer bag 12 and inner bag 14 may be constructed to have gussets. In this case, the internal space 12A of the outer bag 12 and the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 become wider in the thickness direction perpendicular to the length direction A, B and the width direction C. Therefore, the user can easily insert the ink cartridge 2 forward into the internal space 14A of the inner bag 14 through the opening 21.

[0130] In the above embodiment, the materials of the inner bag 14 and the outer bag 12 were PP resin, but are not limited to PP resin. For example, the materials of the inner bag 14 and the outer bag 12 may be PE laminated paper, in which a film made of PET resin, aluminum, or PE resin is laminated onto paper. Alternatively, the materials of the inner bag 14 and the outer bag 12 may be paper in which an aluminum-deposited film, in which aluminum is vapor-deposited onto a PP film made of PP resin, is laminated onto paper.

[0131] In the above embodiment, the material of the inner bag 14 and the outer bag 12 is PP resin. However, the inner bag 14 and the outer bag 12 may have a laminate structure in which multiple thermoplastic resin films are laminated. For example, the inner bag 14 and the outer bag 12 may have a laminate structure in which a PP film made of PP resin and a PET film made of PET resin are laminated. In this case, the gas barrier properties, waterproof properties, and moisture resistance of the inner bag 14 and the outer bag 12 are improved.

[0132] In the above embodiment, the entire inner bag 14 and the entire outer bag 12 transmit light, but light-transmitting portions may be located in parts of the inner bag 14 and parts of the outer bag 12. Furthermore, the inner bag 14 and outer bag 12 do not necessarily have to transmit light.

[0133] In the above embodiment, the recipient's name 17 of the reuse company was written on the outer surface of the outer bag 12, but the recipient's name may be omitted.

[0134] In the above embodiment, the outer surface of the outer bag 12 shows the orientation in which the ink cartridge 2 is housed in the inner bag 14. However, the outer surface of the outer bag 12 does not necessarily have to show the orientation in which the ink cartridge 2 is housed in the inner bag 14. [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] 1. Storage bag 2. Ink cartridges 2A...2nd end 2B...1st end 2C...Top end 2D...Bottom edge 5. Valve 7. Ink outlet 11. Inkjet printer 13. Zipper (an example of a sealing component) 14. Inner bag (an example of a bag) 14A...Internal space 15. Ink leak prevention component 15A...Occluded surface 17.. Recipient 21...Opening mouth 35...bottom 36...bottom 37... Step section 37B...Protruding end surface 39...space 45... Nori 46...Release Tape

Claims

1. A bag capable of storing ink cartridges that can be attached to and removed from an inkjet printer, A sealing member capable of sealing the opened opening, The bag is equipped with an ink leak prevention member located at the bottom of the internal space of the bag, The above ink cartridges are The ink outlet that opens in the direction of installation is installed in the above inkjet printer, It has a valve that can open and close the above ink outlet, The above-mentioned ink outlet is located at the lower end of the ink cartridge in the vertical direction when the ink cartridge is installed in the inkjet printer, and is located away from the first end of the ink cartridge in the installation direction in the removal direction opposite to the installation direction. The inner surface of the bag has a shape that conforms to the external shape of the ink cartridge inserted into the internal space of the bag in the above mounting direction. The above-mentioned ink leakage prevention member is a storage bag having a sealing surface that blocks the ink outlet when the ink cartridge is inserted into the internal space of the bag in the above-mentioned mounting direction.

2. The storage bag according to claim 1, wherein the above-mentioned closure surface is larger than the above-mentioned ink outlet.

3. The above-mentioned ink leakage prevention member is made of an ink-absorbing material, as described in claim 1.

4. The storage bag according to claim 1, wherein the ink leakage prevention member is made of a material that can be welded to the ink outlet.

5. The storage bag according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the sealing member is a zipper that extends in a width direction perpendicular to the length direction connecting the opening and the bottom in the internal space of the bag.

6. The above sealing member is The adhesive applied to the inner surface of the above bag, A storage bag according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a release tape detachably attached to the inner surface of the bag via the adhesive described above.

7. The storage bag according to claim 5, wherein the length in the width direction of the internal space of the bag is shorter than the length in the mounting direction of the ink cartridge from the second end in the detachment direction to the first end in the mounting direction.

8. The bottom of the bag's internal space is The bottom of the bag into which the first end of the ink cartridge, inserted in the mounting direction, is in contact with the internal space of the bag through the opening described above, It has a stepped portion that protrudes from the bottom in the longitudinal direction, The above-mentioned ink leakage prevention member is located on the protruding end face of the stepped portion of the storage bag according to claim 7.

9. The storage bag according to claim 8, wherein the length in the width direction of the internal space of the bag is shorter than the sum of the length in the vertical direction connecting the upper and lower ends of the ink cartridge and the length in the width direction of the stepped portion.

10. The storage bag according to claim 9, wherein the length in the longitudinal direction between the zipper and the bottom of the bag is shorter than the sum of the length in the mounting direction between the first end and the second end of the ink cartridge and the length in the longitudinal direction between the closing surface and the bottom.

11. The storage bag according to claim 1, wherein the material of the bag is either PE laminated paper, in which a film made of PET resin, PP resin, aluminum, or PE resin is laminated onto paper, or paper, in which an aluminum vapor-deposited film is laminated onto a PP film made of PP resin.

12. The above-mentioned bag is a storage bag according to claim 1, having a laminate structure in which multiple thermoplastic resin films are laminated.

13. The above-mentioned bag is a storage bag according to claim 1, having a light-transmitting portion that allows light to pass through.

14. The storage bag according to claim 1, wherein the bag has the address of a company that reuses the ink cartridges printed on it.

15. The storage bag according to claim 1, wherein the bag shows an illustration of the position in which the ink cartridge is placed in the bag.

16. The storage bag according to claim 1, wherein the ink stored in the above ink cartridge contains a coloring agent consisting of one or more types selected from pigments and dyes.

17. The storage bag according to claim 16, wherein the above-mentioned pigment is a resin-dispersible pigment or a self-dispersible pigment.

18. The storage bag according to claim 16, wherein the amount of the above-mentioned coloring agent is 40% by weight or less.

19. The storage bag according to claim 16, wherein the viscosity of the above ink is in the range of 1 mPa·s to 8 mPa·s.

20. The storage bag according to claim 16, wherein the surface tension of the above ink is in the range of 20 mN / m or more and 45 mN / m or less.

21. The above ink is a dye-based ink. The storage bag according to claim 16, wherein the dye is a direct dye, an acid dye, a basic dye, or a reactive dye.

22. A bag capable of storing ink cartridges that can be attached to and removed from an inkjet printer, The above bag is equipped with a sealing member capable of sealing the bag, The above ink cartridges are The ink outlet that opens in the direction of installation is installed in the above inkjet printer, It has a valve that can open and close the above ink outlet, The above-mentioned ink outlet is located at the lower end in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge when the ink cartridge is installed in the inkjet printer, and is located away from the end of the ink cartridge in the mounting direction in the opposite direction to the mounting direction, in the removal direction. The inner surface of the bag has a shape that conforms to the external shape of the ink cartridge inserted into the internal space of the bag in the above mounting direction. A storage bag in which, with the above-mentioned ink cartridge inserted into the internal space of the bag in the above-mentioned mounting direction, there is a space between the ink outlet and the bottom of the internal space of the bag.

23. The bottom of the bag's internal space is The bottom of the bag into which the first end of the ink cartridge inserted in the above mounting direction comes into contact with the inside space of the bag, It has a stepped portion that protrudes from the bottom towards the opening, The storage bag according to claim 22, wherein the above space exists between the ink outlet and the protruding end face of the stepped portion.

Images