Recording device

Abstract

When users of recording devices check consumables such as ink through a viewing window on the viewing surface, the consumables may be difficult to see. [Solution] The device comprises a recording unit that records by discharging a liquid onto a medium, a liquid storage unit that stores the liquid discharged by the recording unit, and a housing that includes a housing exterior that houses the liquid storage unit, wherein the liquid storage unit has a viewing area configured to allow the stored liquid to be seen, and the housing exterior of the housing has a viewing area facing the viewing area and configured to allow the liquid to be seen, and a light-collecting unit that takes in light from the outside of the housing, and there is a light path between the liquid storage unit and the housing exterior that allows the collected light to pass through.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a recording device.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a recording device having a visible surface for consumables such as ink stored in an ink tank. For example, the inkjet recording device described in Patent Document 1 includes an ink tank fixed to the device main body. The ink tank stores ink in a storage chamber. The outer wall constituting the storage chamber has a visible surface that is visible from the outside.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When a user of a recording device checks a consumable such as ink through a viewing window such as a visible surface, the consumable may be difficult to view. Here, the consumable includes not only ink but also a medium and the like.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The recording device of the present disclosure includes a recording unit that performs recording by discharging a liquid onto a medium, a liquid storage unit that stores the liquid discharged by the recording unit, and a housing including a housing exterior that houses the liquid storage unit. The liquid storage unit has a visible region configured to be able to view the stored liquid. The housing exterior of the housing faces the visible region and has a viewing unit configured to be able to view the liquid and a light collecting unit that takes in light from the outside of the housing. There is an optical path through which the taken-in light passes between the liquid storage unit and the housing exterior.

[0006] The recording device of this disclosure comprises a recording unit that performs recording by discharging a liquid onto a medium, a liquid storage unit that stores the liquid discharged by the recording unit, a housing that includes a housing unit exterior that houses the liquid storage unit, and a medium storage unit that stores the medium and has a medium viewing unit configured to allow the medium to be viewed, wherein the housing unit exterior has a light-collecting unit that takes in light from the outside of the housing and an exterior opening facing the medium storage unit, and a light path that allows the light taken in by the light-collecting unit to pass through is provided on the inside of the housing unit exterior, the medium storage unit has a member opening facing the exterior opening, and the light path communicates with the member opening through the exterior opening. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] A diagram showing the general configuration of the printer's exterior. [Figure 2] A diagram showing the cross-sectional structure of a printer. [Figure 3] A diagram showing the general configuration of the ink container cover and the area surrounding it. [Figure 4] A diagram showing the -Y direction surface of the ink container cover. [Figure 5] A diagram showing the cross-sectional structure of the ink container cover, including the ink container. [Figure 6] A diagram showing the general internal structure of the ink container cover. [Figure 7] A diagram showing the schematic configuration of the ink container cover. [Figure 8] A diagram showing a magnified view of the paper feed cassette. [Figure 9] A diagram showing the relationship between the paper feed cassette and the ink container cover. [Figure 10] A diagram showing the path of light taken in by the light-gathering window towards the paper feed cassette. [Figure 11] A diagram showing the general configuration of the paper feed cassette. [Figure 12] A diagram showing the general configuration of the paper feed cassette. [Figure 13] A diagram showing the general configuration of a printer with the paper cassette removed. [Figure 14]A diagram showing a configuration in which an LED is provided in an optical path. [Figure 15] A diagram showing an ink container provided with a light guide member. [Figure 16] A diagram showing a schematic configuration of a light guide member. [Figure 17] A diagram showing a Y-Z cross section of an ink container storing ink at the first water level. [Figure 18] A diagram showing an X-Z cross section of an ink container storing ink at the first water level. [Figure 19] A diagram showing a Y-Z cross section of an ink container storing ink at the second water level. [Figure 20] A diagram showing an X-Z cross section of an ink container storing ink at the second water level. [Figure 21] A diagram showing a Y-Z cross section of an ink container storing ink at the third water level. [Figure 22] A diagram showing an X-Z cross section of an ink container storing ink at the third water level.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of the appearance of the printer 100. The printer 100 shown in FIG. 1 is a multifunction device including a reading unit 10 and a printing unit 20. The printer 100 has a reading function for reading a document and a printing function for performing printing on a printing medium M. The printer 100 corresponds to an example of a recording device. The printing medium M corresponds to an example of a medium. Printing corresponds to an example of recording.

[0009] A plurality of figures including FIG. 1 show an XYZ coordinate system. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. The X-axis is an axis along the width of the printer 100. The -X direction corresponds to the right direction as seen from the user when the front of the device faces the user. The +X direction corresponds to the left direction as seen from the user when the front of the device faces the user. Here, the front of the device is the side surface provided with the operation panel 23 among the side surfaces constituting the periphery of the printer 100. The operation panel 23 will be described later. The Y-axis is an axis along the depth of the printer 100. The +Y direction corresponds to the direction from the front of the device to the rear of the device. The -Y direction corresponds to the direction from the rear of the device to the front of the device. The Z-axis is the axis along the height of the printer 100. The +Z direction corresponds to vertically upward. The -Z direction corresponds to vertically downward.

[0010] The reading unit 10 reads the original document. The reading unit 10 is provided above the printing unit 20. The reading unit 10 includes a document placement unit 11 and a document conveyance unit 13. The document conveyance unit 13 is provided above the document placement unit 11. The document conveyance unit 13 is supported so as to be openable and closable with respect to the document placement unit 11.

[0011] The document placement unit 11 is a flatbed type scanner. The document placement unit 11 has a contact image sensor and a document placement surface. The contact image sensor and the document placement surface are not shown. The document placement unit 11 supports the document conveyance unit 13 when the document conveyance unit 13 is closed. When the document conveyance unit 13 is opened by the user, the document placement surface is exposed. The contact image sensor reads the original document placed on the document placement surface. The contact image sensor generates image data by reading the original document.

[0012] The document conveyance unit 13 conveys the original document. The original document is placed on the upper surface of the document conveyance unit 13. The document conveyance unit 13 conveys the placed original document to a position facing the contact image sensor. The document conveyance unit 13 is an ADF (Auto Document Feeder). The document conveyance unit 13 conveys the original document read by the contact image sensor to the discharge port. The discharge port is not shown.

[0013] The printing unit 20 prints on the printing medium M. The printing unit 20 is an inkjet printer that prints by ejecting ink L onto the printing medium M. The printing unit 20 prints based on print data. The print data is data received from an external device. The print data may also be image data generated by the reading unit 10. The printing unit 20 comprises a cover body 21, an operation panel 23, a paper feed cassette 40, and a paper output tray 60.

[0014] The cover body 21 covers various functional parts located within the printing unit 20. The cover body 21 covers the outer periphery of the printing unit 20. The cover body 21 is composed of one or more cover members. The cover body 21 has an ink container cover portion 21a. The cover body 21 corresponds to an example of a housing.

[0015] The ink container cover portion 21a covers the ink container 34, which will be described later. The ink container cover portion 21a is composed of one or more cover members. The ink container cover portion 21a may be composed of a part of one cover member. The ink container cover portion 21a has an ink level confirmation window 25 and a light-gathering window 27. Details of the ink level confirmation window 25 and the light-gathering window 27 will be described later. The ink container cover portion 21a corresponds to an example of the exterior of the storage portion.

[0016] The control panel 23 receives input from the user. The control panel 23 is located on the front of the printer 100. The control panel 23 has a display, operation buttons, etc. The display shows the results of operations received from the user. The operation buttons are power input buttons, etc. The control panel 23 may be configured as a touch panel with touch input functionality. The configuration of the control panel 23 is not limited as long as it is capable of receiving input from the user.

[0017] The paper feed cassette 40 contains the printing medium M. The contained printing medium M is printed by the print head 31, which will be described later. The paper feed cassette 40 is located in the +X direction of the ink container cover portion 21a. The paper feed cassette 40 is located adjacent to the ink container cover portion 21a. The paper feed cassette 40 is configured to be detachable from the print unit 20. The paper feed cassette 40 is configured to be removable from the print unit 20 in the -Y direction. The paper feed cassette 40 is attached to the print unit 20 by the user moving the paper feed cassette 40 in the +Y direction. The paper feed cassette 40 has a cassette front opening 41. The cassette front opening 41 is located on the cassette front 40F of the paper feed cassette 40. Details of the cassette front opening 41 will be described later. The paper feed cassette 40 corresponds to an example of a media storage portion.

[0018] The output tray 60 holds the print medium M printed by the print head 31. The output tray 60 is located above the paper feed cassette 40. The paper feed cassette 40, output tray 60, and operation panel 23 are arranged in the order of paper feed cassette 40, output tray 60, and operation panel 23 in the +Z direction. The output tray 60 is configured to be retractable in the -Y direction. The output tray 60 can be moved in the -Y direction or the +Y direction by user operation. The output tray 60 may also be configured to be movable in the -Y direction or the +Y direction by a tray drive mechanism (not shown). Figure 1 shows the output tray 60 in a state where it is housed within the print unit 20.

[0019] Figure 2 shows the cross-sectional configuration of the printer 100. Figure 2 shows the YZ cross-section of the printer 100. The printing unit 20 shown in Figure 2 comprises a printing section 30, a plurality of transport roller pairs, a platen 55, a paper feed cassette 40, and a paper output tray 60.

[0020] The paper feed cassette 40 shown in Figure 2 accommodates multiple printing media M. A pickup roller 43 is provided inside the paper feed cassette 40. The pickup roller 43 feeds the printing media M placed on top of the paper feed cassette 40 into the printing unit 20.

[0021] Multiple transport roller pairs transport the printing medium M. The multiple transport roller pairs shown in Figure 2 are the first transport roller pair 45, the second transport roller pair 47, the third transport roller pair 49, the fourth transport roller pair 51, and the paper discharge roller pair 57. The first transport roller pair 45, the second transport roller pair 47, the third transport roller pair 49, and the fourth transport roller pair 51 transport the printing medium M from the paper feed cassette 40 to the printing unit 30. The paper discharge roller pair 57 transports the printing medium M from the printing unit 30 to the paper discharge tray 60.

[0022] The printing unit 30 prints on the printing medium M. The printing unit 30 prints on the printing medium M by ejecting ink L onto the printing medium M. The printing unit 30 corresponds to an example of a recording unit. The printing unit 30 comprises a print head 31 and a carriage 33.

[0023] The print head 31 ejects ink L onto the printing medium M. The print head 31 is an inkjet head that ejects ink L. The print head 31 ejects ink L stored in an ink container 34 (described later) onto the printing medium M. The ink L stored in the ink container 34 is flowed to the print head 31 by an ink flow mechanism (not shown). The ink L flowed to the print head 31 is ejected from nozzles (not shown). The nozzles are arranged on the -Z plane of the print head 31. The print head 31 ejects one or more types of ink L. Ink L corresponds to an example of a liquid.

[0024] The carriage 33 supports the print head 31. The carriage 33 is configured to be movable. The carriage 33 moves in the +X direction or the -X direction by a carriage drive mechanism (not shown). The carriage 33 moves the print head 31 on which it is mounted in the +X direction or the -X direction. The print head 31 ejects ink L when it moves in the +X direction or the -X direction. The print head 31 may eject ink L when it moves in both the +X and -X directions.

[0025] The platen 55 supports the printing medium M conveyed by the fourth transport roller pair 51. The platen 55 is positioned opposite the print head 31. The print head 31 ejects ink L onto the printing medium M supported by the platen 55. The platen 55 may be connected to a media suction mechanism (not shown). The platen 55 supports the printing medium M that is sucked up by the media suction mechanism.

[0026] The output tray 60 holds the printing medium M printed by the print head 31. Figure 2 shows the output tray 60 pulled out in the -Y direction. The output tray 60 receives the printing medium M transported from the printing unit 30 by the output roller pair 57.

[0027] Figure 3 shows the schematic configuration of the ink container cover 21a and its surrounding area. Figure 3 shows the ink container cover 21a, the operation panel 23, the paper feed cassette 40, and the output tray 60. The operation panel 23, the paper feed cassette 40, and the output tray 60 are positioned adjacent to the ink container cover 21a in the +X direction. The ink container cover 21a has an ink level confirmation window 25 and a light-gathering window 27 on its -Y direction surface.

[0028] The ink level confirmation window 25 shown in Figure 3 consists of a black ink level confirmation window 25K, a cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, a magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and a yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y. The black ink level confirmation window 25K, cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y are each independent openings. The ink level confirmation window 25 shown in Figure 3 is composed of four openings, but is not limited to this. The ink level confirmation window 25 may be composed of one or more openings. The ink level confirmation window 25 may be provided with a light-transmitting confirmation window cover. By providing a confirmation window cover on the ink level confirmation window 25, dust and other debris can be prevented from entering the inside of the ink container cover portion 21a. The ink level confirmation window 25 corresponds to an example of a viewing area. Any of the black ink level confirmation window 25K, cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y corresponds to an example of the first area and the second area.

[0029] The ink level confirmation window 25 is configured to allow the ink level display section 35 to be viewed. The ink level display section 35 forms part of the wall surface of the ink container 34. The ink level display section 35 is configured to allow the ink L stored inside the ink container 34 to be viewed. For example, the ink level display section 35 is made of a light-transmitting material. The user can determine the amount of ink by checking the ink level L visible in the ink level display section 35.

[0030] The black ink level confirmation window 25K is configured to allow visibility of the black ink level display section 35K. The black ink level display section 35K forms part of the wall surface of the black ink container 34K. The black ink level display section 35K is configured to allow visibility of the water level of the black ink LB stored inside the black ink container 34K.

[0031] The cyan ink level confirmation window 25C is configured to allow viewing of the cyan ink level display section 35C. The cyan ink level display section 35C forms part of the wall surface of the cyan ink container 34C. The cyan ink level display section 35C is configured to allow viewing of the water level of cyan ink LC stored inside the cyan ink container 34C.

[0032] The magenta ink level confirmation window 25M is configured to allow visibility of the magenta ink level display unit 35M. The magenta ink level display unit 35M forms part of the wall surface of the magenta ink container 34M. The magenta ink level display unit 35M is configured to allow visibility of the water level of magenta ink LM stored inside the magenta ink container 34M.

[0033] The yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y is configured to allow visibility of the yellow ink level indicator 35Y. The yellow ink level indicator 35Y forms part of the wall surface of the yellow ink container 34Y. The yellow ink level indicator 35Y is configured to allow visibility of the water level of the yellow ink LY stored inside the yellow ink container 34Y.

[0034] The ink level indicator 35 is used when the black ink level indicator 35K, cyan ink level indicator 35C, magenta ink level indicator 35M, and yellow ink level indicator 35Y are not distinguished. One of the black ink level indicator 35K, cyan ink level indicator 35C, magenta ink level indicator 35M, and yellow ink level indicator 35Y corresponds to an example of the viewing area and a second viewing area.

[0035] The light-gathering window 27 takes in ambient light, which is light from outside the cover body 21, into the inside of the ink container cover portion 21a. The light-gathering window 27 is an opening that takes in ambient light. The light-gathering window 27 is provided below the ink level confirmation window 25. The light-gathering window 27 is provided below the black ink level confirmation window 25K, the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, the magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and the yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y. The position of the light-gathering window 27 is not limited as long as it can take in ambient light. It is preferable that the light-gathering window 27 be provided below the ink level confirmation window 25. This makes it possible to effectively utilize the area below the ink level confirmation window 25. The light-gathering window 27 corresponds to an example of a light-gathering section.

[0036] The light-gathering window 27 is preferably located below the ink level confirmation window 25. By providing the light-gathering window 27 below the ink level confirmation window 25, the light-gathering window 27 can take in ambient light when the user is working above the ink level confirmation window 25.

[0037] Figure 4 shows the -Y direction surface of the ink container cover portion 21a. Figure 4 shows the front surface of the ink container cover portion 21a as viewed by the user from the -Y direction. Figure 4 shows the ink container 34. The ink container 34 is positioned in the +Y direction relative to the front surface of the ink container cover portion 21a.

[0038] As shown in Figure 4, the front of the ink container cover 21a has an ink level confirmation window 25 and a light-gathering window 27. The ink level confirmation window 25 shown in Figure 4 consists of a black ink level confirmation window 25K, a cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, a magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and a yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y.

[0039] As shown in Figure 4, the ink level display unit 35 is positioned relative to the ink level confirmation window 25. A black ink level indicator unit 35K is positioned relative to the black ink level confirmation window 25K. A cyan ink level indicator 35C is positioned relative to the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C. A magenta ink level indicator 35M is positioned relative to the magenta ink level confirmation window 25M. A yellow ink level indicator 35Y is positioned relative to the yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y.

[0040] Figure 4 shows the black ink container 34K, the cyan ink container 34C, the magenta ink container 34M, and the yellow ink container 34Y. The term "ink container 34" is used when referring to the black ink container 34K, the cyan ink container 34C, the magenta ink container 34M, and the yellow ink container 34Y without distinction. Any two of the black ink container 34K, the cyan ink container 34C, the magenta ink container 34M, and the yellow ink container 34Y correspond to an example of a liquid storage section and a second liquid storage section.

[0041] The black ink container 34K contains black ink LB. The black ink container 34K has a black ink amount indicator section 35K on a part of its circumferential surface. The black ink amount indicator section 35K is configured to allow visual confirmation of the black ink LB contained within. The black ink container 34K is positioned in the +Y direction of the black ink amount confirmation window 25K. The black ink container 34K supplies black ink LB to the print head 31.

[0042] The cyan ink container 34C contains cyan ink LC. The cyan ink container 34C has a cyan ink level indicator section 35C on a part of its circumferential surface. The cyan ink level indicator section 35C is configured to allow visual confirmation of the cyan ink LC contained within. The cyan ink container 34C is positioned in the +Y direction of the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C. The cyan ink container 34C supplies cyan ink LC to the print head 31.

[0043] The magenta ink container 34M contains magenta ink LM. The magenta ink container 34M has a magenta ink amount indicator 35M on a part of its circumferential surface. The magenta ink amount indicator 35M is configured to allow visual confirmation of the magenta ink LM contained within. The magenta ink container 34M is positioned in the +Y direction of the magenta ink amount confirmation window 25M. The magenta ink container 34M supplies magenta ink LM to the print head 31.

[0044] The yellow ink container 34Y contains yellow ink LY. The yellow ink container 34Y has a yellow ink amount indicator 35Y on a part of its circumferential surface. The yellow ink amount indicator 35Y is configured to allow visual confirmation of the yellow ink LY contained within. The yellow ink container 34Y is positioned in the +Y direction of the yellow ink amount confirmation window 25Y. The yellow ink container 34Y supplies yellow ink LY to the print head 31. Two inks L from black ink LB, cyan ink LC, magenta ink LM, and yellow ink LY correspond to liquids and an example of a second liquid.

[0045] The ink container cover section 21a shown in Figure 4 accommodates, but is not limited to, a black ink container 34K, a cyan ink container 34C, a magenta ink container 34M, and a yellow ink container 34Y. The ink container cover section 21a houses one or more ink containers 34. In Figure 4, the black ink container 34K, cyan ink container 34C, magenta ink container 34M, and yellow ink container 34Y are arranged in the +X direction, but is not limited to this arrangement. The arrangement order of the multiple ink containers 34 can be changed as appropriate. One or more ink containers 34 may store ink L other than black ink LB, cyan ink LC, magenta ink LM, and yellow ink LY. The ink container 34 may be configured to allow ink to be refilled through an inlet (not shown). In that case, it is desirable that the amount of ink L inside the ink container 34 be easily visible when the user refills the ink L.

[0046] The light-gathering window 27 is located below the black ink level confirmation window 25K, the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, the magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and the yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y. The width of the light-gathering window 27 along the X-axis, as shown in Figure 4, is wider than the sum of the widths of the four ink level confirmation windows 25 along the X-axis. It is preferable that the width of the light-gathering window 27 along the X-axis is wider than the width of each ink level confirmation window 25 along the X-axis. It is preferable that the width of the light-gathering window 27 along the X-axis is wider than the sum of the widths of two adjacent ink level confirmation windows 25 along the X-axis. By configuring the light-gathering window 27 to have a width along the X-axis that is wider than the width of one ink level confirmation window 25 along the X-axis, the light-gathering window 27 can take in more ambient light. Furthermore, the daylight window 27 may be divided into multiple sections. In this case, the width of the daylight window 27 along the X-axis refers to the total width of the multiple daylight windows 27 along the X-axis.

[0047] Figure 5 shows the cross-sectional configuration of the ink container cover portion 21a, including the ink container 34. Figure 5 shows the YZ cross-section of the ink container cover portion 21a. Figure 5 shows the ink container cover portion 21a and the ink container 34. The ink container 34 shown in Figure 5 is a cyan ink container 34C as an example. The cross-sectional configuration of the cyan ink container 34C is the same as that of the black ink container 34K, magenta ink container 34M, and yellow ink container 34Y.

[0048] The ink container cover portion 21a shown in Figure 5 has a cyan ink level confirmation window 25C and a light-gathering window 27. The light-gathering window 27 is located in the -Z direction of the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C. The ink container cover portion 21a and the cyan ink container 34C are spaced apart in the direction along the Y axis.

[0049] The ink container 34 has an ink level indicator 35, an ink storage chamber 36, and a gas-liquid exchange port 37. Below the ink container 34, a buffer chamber 38 is provided. The buffer chamber 38 may be integrated with the ink container 34 or may be a separate component. The gas-liquid exchange port 37 corresponds to an example of a gas-liquid exchange section. The buffer chamber 38 corresponds to an example of a storage section. An example of the ink container 34, the cyan ink container 34C, has a cyan ink level indicator 35C, a cyan ink storage chamber 36C, and a cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C. Below the cyan ink container 34C, a cyan ink buffer chamber 38C is provided.

[0050] The ink level indicator 35 is located opposite the ink level confirmation window 25. The ink level indicator 35 is located on a part of the ink container 34. The ink level indicator 35 is configured to allow visual confirmation of the ink L stored in the ink storage chamber 36.

[0051] The ink storage chamber 36 stores the ink L ejected by the print head 31. The cyan ink storage chamber 36C stores the cyan ink LC ejected by the print head 31. The ink storage chamber 36 communicates with the gas-liquid exchange port 37. The cyan ink storage chamber 36C communicates with the cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C.

[0052] The gas-liquid exchange port 37 performs gas-liquid exchange. The gas-liquid exchange port 37 is located in the -Z direction relative to the ejection port of the print head 31. The ejection port of the print head 31 is the opening of the nozzle that ejects ink L. The gas-liquid exchange port 37 applies negative pressure to the ejection port equal to the head difference of the height along the Z axis between the ejection port and the position where the gas-liquid exchange port 37 is located. The gas-liquid exchange port 37 is composed of an opening area that maintains the meniscus of the ink L. The gas-liquid exchange port 37 is provided inside the buffer chamber 38. An example of a gas-liquid exchange port 37 is the cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C, which is located in the -Z direction relative to the ejection port of the print head 31. The cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C applies negative pressure to the ejection port equal to the head difference of the height along the Z axis between the ejection port and the position where the cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C is located. The cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C is composed of an opening area that maintains the meniscus of the cyan ink LC. The cyanide container gas-liquid exchange port 37C is located inside the cyanide ink buffer chamber 38C.

[0053] The buffer chamber 38 can contain the ink L that flows out from the gas-liquid exchange port 37. When the air in the ink storage chamber 36 expands due to pressure fluctuations or temperature changes, there is a risk that the meniscus formed at the gas-liquid exchange port 37 may be destroyed. If the meniscus formed at the gas-liquid exchange port 37 is destroyed, the ink L stored in the ink storage chamber 36 will flow out into the buffer chamber 38. The buffer chamber 38 prevents the ink L from flowing out of the ink container 34 by storing the ink L that has flowed out from the gas-liquid exchange port 37. An example of a buffer chamber 38 is the cyan ink buffer chamber 38C, which can store the cyan ink LC that flows out from the cyan container gas-liquid exchange port 37C.

[0054] The light-gathering window 27 is provided in a position opposite the buffer chamber 38. The light-gathering window 27 is provided in a position in the -Y direction of the buffer chamber 38. As an example, the light-gathering window 27 is provided in a position in the -Y direction of the cyan ink buffer chamber 38C.

[0055] The ink container 34 has a gas-liquid exchange port 37 for gas-liquid exchange. The printer 100 is equipped with a buffer chamber 38 that contains the ink L flowing out from the gas-liquid exchange port 37. The light-gathering window 27 is provided at the position of the ink container cover portion 21a facing the buffer chamber 38. Since the buffer chamber 38 is located below the ink storage chamber 36, the ink level indicator 35 is located above the buffer chamber 38. The ink level confirmation window 25, which faces the ink level indicator 35, is located above the buffer chamber 38. This makes it possible to increase the area of ​​the light-gathering window 27 located below the ink level confirmation window 25.

[0056] The front portion of the ink container cover 21a and the ink container 34 are spaced apart. A space is provided between the ink container cover 21a and the ink container 34. The space consists of a first internal region inside the ink container cover 21a following the light-gathering window 27, and a second internal region above the first internal region between the ink container cover 21a and the ink container 34. Light taken in by the light-gathering window 27 can pass through this space. This space will hereafter be referred to as the optical path 63. The optical path 63 is a light-passing space through which light taken in by the light-gathering window 27 passes. The optical path 63 corresponds to an example of an optical path.

[0057] The printer 100 comprises a printing unit 30 that performs printing by ejecting ink L onto a printing medium M, an ink container 34 that contains the ink L ejected by the printing unit 30, and a cover body 21 that includes an ink container cover portion 21a that houses the ink container 34. The ink container 34 has an ink level indicator 35 configured to allow the amount of ink L contained within to be seen. The ink container cover portion 21a of the cover body 21 has an ink level confirmation window 25 that faces the ink level indicator 35 and allows the amount of ink L to be seen, and a light-gathering window 27 that takes in light from the outside of the cover body 21. The printer 100 has an optical path 63 between the ink container 34 and the ink container cover portion 21a that allows the captured light to pass through. The light entering through the light-gathering window 27 makes it easier for the user to see the ink L inside the ink container 34. Because the ink L inside the ink container 34 is easily visible due to the use of ambient light, the printer 100 is made more cost-effective and energy-efficient.

[0058] The printer 100, as an example, includes a black ink container 34K for containing black ink LB and a cyan ink container 34C for containing cyan ink LC. The cyan ink container 34C has a cyan ink level indicator 35C configured to allow the cyan ink LC contained within to be visually confirmed. The ink level confirmation window 25 has a black ink level confirmation window 25K facing the black ink level indicator 35K, and a cyan ink level confirmation window 25C facing the cyan ink level indicator 35C. The light-gathering window 27 is provided below the black ink level confirmation window 25K and the cyan ink level confirmation window 25C. Users will be able to more easily see the amount of black ink in the black ink container 34K and the amount of cyan ink in the cyan ink container 34C.

[0059] It is preferable that a reflective member 65 is provided within the optical path 63. Figure 5 shows a configuration in which a first reflector 65a is provided within the optical path 63. The first reflector 65a is an example of a reflective member 65. The first reflector 65a reflects the light taken in by the light-gathering window 27 to a second internal region in the +Z direction. The first reflector 65a reflects the light to the ink level display unit 35. By the first reflector 65a reflecting the light to the second internal region, the user can more easily see the ink level display unit 35. The reflective member 65 corresponds to an example of a reflective part.

[0060] The printer 100 is provided with a first reflector 65a located in the optical path 63 that reflects light, and the first reflector 65a reflects light to the ink level display unit 35. The provision of the first reflector 65a makes it easier for the user to see the ink level indicator 35.

[0061] A second reflector 65b may be provided as a reflective member 65 within the optical path 63. Figure 6 shows a schematic configuration inside the ink container cover 21a. Figure 6 shows members arranged in the first internal region of the optical path 63 following the light-gathering window 27. Figure 6 shows the first reflector 65a and the second reflector 65b. The first reflector 65a reflects the light taken in by the light-gathering window 27 in the +Z direction. The second reflector 65b reflects the light taken in by the light-gathering window 27 in the +X direction. The second reflector 65b reflects the light toward the paper feed cassette 40. Figure 6 shows the first reflector 65a and the second reflector 65b, but the printer 100 is not limited to this configuration. The printer 100 may be configured to include either the first reflector 65a or the second reflector 65b. It is preferable that the printer 100 includes both the first reflector 65a and the second reflector 65b.

[0062] Figure 7 shows the schematic configuration of the ink container cover section 21a. Figure 7 shows the side and front view of the ink container cover section 21a in the +X direction. The front view of the ink container cover section 21a has an ink level confirmation window 25 and a light-gathering window 27. The ink level confirmation window 25 consists of a black ink level confirmation window 25K, a cyan ink level confirmation window 25C, a magenta ink level confirmation window 25M, and a yellow ink level confirmation window 25Y.

[0063] The side of the ink container cover portion 21a in the +X direction has a cover portion opening 29. The side of the ink container cover portion 21a in the +X direction is the side facing the paper feed cassette 40. The cover portion opening 29 is provided at a position facing the paper feed cassette 40. The cover portion opening 29 is provided at a position connecting to the optical path 63. The cover portion opening 29 corresponds to an example of an exterior opening.

[0064] Figure 8 shows a partially enlarged view of the paper feed cassette 40. The portion of the paper feed cassette 40 shown in Figure 8 includes the area adjacent to the side surface of the ink container cover portion 21a in the +X direction. Figure 8 shows the front of the cassette 40F, the side of the cassette 40S, the top of the cassette 40T, the front opening 41 of the cassette, and the side opening 42 of the cassette.

[0065] The front of the cassette 40F is the side of the paper feed cassette 40 in the -Y direction. The front of the cassette 40F is the side that is positioned in the direction in which the paper feed cassette 40 is removed. When the paper feed cassette 40 is installed in the printer 100, it forms part of the front of the printer 100. The front of the cassette 40F has a front opening 41. The front of the cassette 40F corresponds to an example of the first surface.

[0066] The cassette side 40S is the side of the paper feed cassette 40 in the -X direction. The cassette side 40S faces the side of the ink container cover portion 21a in the +X direction. A cassette side opening 42 is formed on the cassette side 40S.

[0067] The top surface 40T of the cassette is the +Z direction surface of the paper feed cassette 40. When the paper feed cassette 40 is installed in the printer 100, the area of ​​the top surface 40T that connects to the front surface 40F of the cassette may be positioned in a location visible to the user.

[0068] The cassette front opening 41 is configured to allow the user to see the printing medium M contained inside the paper feed cassette 40. The cassette front opening 41 is provided on the front of the cassette 40F. In Figure 8, the cassette front opening 41 is located in the -X direction on the front of the cassette 40F. The cassette front opening 41 is located in the area adjacent to the ink container cover portion 21a. The cassette front opening 41 corresponds to an example of a media viewing area.

[0069] The cassette side opening 42 is provided on the cassette side 40S. When the paper feed cassette 40 is installed in the printer 100, the cassette side opening 42 faces the cover opening 29. The cassette side opening 42 allows light passing through the optical path 63 to pass into the inside of the paper feed cassette 40 via the cover opening 29. The cassette side opening 42 faces an example of a component opening.

[0070] Figure 9 shows the relationship between the paper feed cassette 40 and the ink container cover 21a. Figure 9 shows a portion of the front view of the printer 100. Figure 9 shows a portion of the paper feed cassette 40 and a portion of the ink container cover 21a. The configuration of the ink container cover 21a shown in Figure 9 is the same as the configuration of the ink container cover 21a shown in Figure 4.

[0071] The paper feed cassette 40 is positioned adjacent to the ink container cover portion 21a in the +X direction. The cassette front opening 41 is positioned in the +X direction of the light-gathering window 27. An optical path 63 (not shown) is provided inside the ink container cover portion 21a in the +Y direction of the light-gathering window 27.

[0072] Figure 9 shows the first virtual line VL1, the second virtual line VL2, and the virtual range VA. The first virtual line VL1 is a virtual line that passes through the upper end of the daylight window 27 and extends in the +X direction. The second virtual line VL2 is a virtual line that passes through the lower end of the daylight window 27 and extends in the +X direction. The virtual range VA is the region between the first virtual line VL1 and the second virtual line VL2.

[0073] The cover opening 29 is located in a position that includes at least a portion of the virtual range VA. The cassette side opening 42 is located in a position that includes at least a portion of the virtual range VA. The cover opening 29 and the cassette side opening 42 are located in a position that overlaps in at least a portion. The cover opening 29 and the cassette side opening 42 are configured to allow light that has passed through the optical path 63 to pass through. The optical path 63 communicates with the cassette side opening 42 via the cover opening 29.

[0074] The cassette front opening 41 is located in a position that includes at least a portion of the virtual range VA. Therefore, when viewed from the -X direction, the light-gathering window 27 and the cassette front opening 41 overlap in the +Z direction. The position in the -X direction is opposite to the cover opening 29.

[0075] The printer 100 includes a paper feed cassette 40 for storing the printing medium M. The ink container cover portion 21a has a cover portion opening 29 facing the paper feed cassette 40. The paper feed cassette 40 has a cassette side opening 42 facing the cover portion opening 29 and a cassette front opening 41 configured to allow visibility of the stored printing medium M. The optical path 63 communicates with the cassette side opening 42 via the cover portion opening 29. The light entering through the light-gathering window 27 makes it easier for the user to see the amount of ink in the ink container 34 and the printing medium M stored in the paper feed cassette 40.

[0076] When viewed from a position opposite the cover opening 29, it is preferable that the light-gathering window 27 and the cassette front opening 41 overlap in the +Z direction. When the light path 63 directs the light taken in by the light-gathering window 27 toward the cassette front opening 41, the reduction in light intensity is suppressed.

[0077] Figure 10 shows the path of light taken in by the light-gathering window 27 toward the paper feed cassette 40. Figure 10 shows an XY cross-section including a part of the paper feed cassette 40 and a part of the ink container cover 21a. A second reflector 65b is provided inside the ink container cover 21a. The second reflector 65b is provided within the optical path 63.

[0078] As shown in Figure 10, the cover opening 29 and the cassette side opening 42 are located opposite each other. The cover opening 29 is located within the optical path 63. The optical path 63 communicates with the cassette side opening 42 via the cover opening 29.

[0079] Light captured by the light-gathering window 27 enters an optical path 63 located inside the ink container cover 21a. The incident light is reflected towards the cover opening 29 by a second reflector 65b located within the optical path 63. The reflected light passes through the cover opening 29 and the cassette side opening 42 and enters the inside of the paper feed cassette 40. The light entering the paper feed cassette 40 makes it easier for the user to see the printing medium M contained in the paper feed cassette 40 through the cassette front opening 41.

[0080] The printer 100 includes a printing unit 30 that performs printing by ejecting ink L onto a printing medium M, an ink container 34 that contains the ink L ejected by the printing unit 30, a cover body 21 including an ink container cover 21a that houses the ink container 34, and a paper feed cassette 40 that houses the printing medium M and has a cassette front opening 41 configured to allow the printing medium M to be seen. The ink container cover 21a has a light-gathering window 27 that takes in light from the outside of the cover body 21, and a cover opening 29 that faces the paper feed cassette 40. An optical path 63 that allows the light taken in by the light-gathering window 27 to pass through is provided inside the ink container cover 21a. The paper feed cassette 40 has a cassette side opening 42 that faces the cover opening 29. The optical path 63 communicates with the cassette side opening 42 via the cover opening 29. Light entering through the light-gathering window 27 makes it easier for the user to see the printing medium M stored in the paper feed cassette 40 through the front opening 41 of the cassette. Because the ink L in the ink container 34 is easily visible due to the ambient light, the printer 100 is made more cost-effective and energy-efficient.

[0081] The printer 100 is provided with a second reflector 65b located in the optical path 63 that reflects light. The second reflector 65b reflects light towards the cover opening 29. The second reflector 65b increases the amount of light incident inside the paper feed cassette 40, making it easier for the user to see the printing medium M contained in the paper feed cassette 40.

[0082] The cassette front opening 41 may extend to the top surface 40T of the cassette. Figure 11 shows a schematic configuration of the paper feed cassette 40. The paper feed cassette 40 shown in Figure 11 has a cassette front opening 41 that extends to the top surface 40T of the cassette.

[0083] When the paper feed cassette 40 is installed in the printer 100, the area of ​​the cassette top surface 40T that connects to the cassette front surface 40F is positioned in a location visible to the user. The cassette top surface 40T shown in Figure 11 is provided with a top opening 41T that connects to the cassette front opening 41 formed in the cassette front surface 40F. The top opening 41T constitutes a part of the cassette front opening 41. The cassette top surface 40T corresponds to an example of the second surface.

[0084] The paper feed cassette 40 has a front cassette surface 40F positioned in the direction of removal, and a top cassette surface 40T positioned above it. The front cassette opening 41 is provided on the front cassette surface 40F and the top cassette surface 40T. The cassette front opening 41 is provided on the front 40F of the cassette and the top 40T of the cassette, making it easier for the user to see the printing medium M stored in the paper feed cassette 40. Furthermore, because ambient light can be taken in through the top opening 41T, the user can see the printing medium M stored in the paper feed cassette 40 even more easily.

[0085] The inner surface of the paper feed cassette 40 is preferably surface-treated. Figure 12 shows the schematic configuration of the paper feed cassette 40. Figure 12 shows the front surface 40F of the cassette, the top surface 40T of the cassette, the bottom surface 40B of the cassette, the side surface 40S of the cassette, the front opening 41 of the cassette, and the side opening 42 of the cassette. Figure 12 shows the inner surface of the paper feed cassette 40 of the side surface 40S adjacent to the ink container cover portion 21a.

[0086] The cassette bottom surface 40B is for placing the printing medium M. The cassette bottom surface 40B can accommodate printing medium M of various sizes. The cassette bottom surface 40B may have guide members that guide the end face position of the printing medium M. The guide members are not shown.

[0087] The surfaces of the bottom 40B, front 40F, and side 40S of the paper feed cassette 40 constitute the inner surface of the cassette. The inner surface of the cassette corresponds to an example of the inner surface of the media storage section. It is preferable that at least a portion of the inner surface of the cassette be given a mirror finish as a surface treatment. By giving at least a portion of the inner surface of the cassette a mirror finish, the light incident on the paper feed cassette 40 is less attenuated. The user can more easily see the printing media M stored in the paper feed cassette 40.

[0088] At least a portion of the inner surface of the paper feed cassette 40 is mirror-finished. The mirror finish applied to the inner surface of the cassette makes it easier for the user to see the print media M stored in the paper feed cassette 40.

[0089] The inner surface of the cassette may be coated with white paint as a surface treatment. By coating with white paint, the attenuation of light incident on the paper feed cassette 40 is reduced. Furthermore, the inner surface of the cassette, particularly the bottom surface 40B, may be coated with black paint as a surface treatment. The black paint coating increases the color difference between the printing medium M and the inner surface of the cassette. This makes it easier for the user to see the printing medium M due to the increased contrast.

[0090] The lower surface 60a of the paper output tray of the printer 100 may be treated with a surface coating. Figure 13 shows a schematic configuration of the printer 100 with the paper feed cassette 40 removed. Figure 13 shows a schematic configuration of the printer 100 including the lower surface 60a of the paper output tray.

[0091] The lower surface 60a of the output tray is the -Z-direction surface of the output tray 60 and faces the paper feed cassette 40. The lower surface 60a of the output tray faces the printing medium M contained in the paper feed cassette 40, at least when it is closed. The lower surface 60a of the output tray forms part of the inner circumferential surface of the cassette, at least when it is closed. The lower surface 60a of the output tray may be surface-treated.

[0092] It is preferable that the lower surface 60a of the paper output tray is given a mirror finish as a surface treatment. The mirror finish applied to the lower surface 60a of the output tray reduces the attenuation of light entering the paper cassette 40. This makes it easier for the user to see the printing medium M stored in the paper cassette 40.

[0093] The lower surface 60a of the output tray may be coated with white paint as a surface treatment. By coating with white paint, the attenuation of light incident on the paper feed cassette 40 is reduced.

[0094] A bottom cover portion, which is part of the cover body 21, may be provided between the output tray 60 and the paper feed cassette 40. In this case, the lower surface of the bottom cover portion faces the printing medium M housed in the paper feed cassette 40. Also, the lower surface of the bottom cover portion constitutes a part of the inner surface of the cassette. At this time, a surface treatment may be applied to the underside of the bottom cover portion.

[0095] The bottom cover may be given a mirror finish as a surface treatment, or it may be coated with white paint. These surface treatments can achieve the same effect as applying a surface treatment to the bottom surface 60a of the paper output tray.

[0096] A light source that emits light may be provided in the optical path 63. Figure 14 shows a configuration in which a light source is provided in the optical path 63. Figure 14 shows a configuration in which an LED 71 (light-emitting diode) is provided in the optical path 63. The LED 71 is an example of a light source and corresponds to an example of an illumination unit.

[0097] Figure 14 shows a configuration in which LEDs 71 are provided in the light path 63 following the light-gathering window 27. The LEDs 71 illuminate the light path 63 formed inside the ink container cover portion 21a. The LEDs 71 illuminate the light path 63 between the ink container cover portion 21a and the ink container 34. The LEDs 71 illuminate the ink level indicator portion 35 of the ink container 34. Figure 14 shows three LEDs 71 arranged in the light path 63. The three LEDs 71 are arranged in the direction along the X axis. The number of LEDs 71 is not limited to three. One or more LEDs 71 may be arranged in the light path 63. The position of the LEDs 71 is not limited to the position of the LEDs 71 shown in Figure 14. Preferably, the LEDs 71 are positioned so that the ink level indicator portion 35, which is visible in the ink level confirmation window 25, is easily visible to the user. Preferably, the LEDs 71 are positioned so that the printing medium M, which is visible in the cassette front opening 41, is easily visible to the user.

[0098] A light bulb (not shown) may be provided in place of the LED 71 in the light path 63 following the light-gathering window 27. The light bulb illuminates the light path 63 formed inside the ink container cover portion 21a. The light bulb illuminates the light path 63 between the ink container cover portion 21a and the ink container 34. The light bulb illuminates the ink level indicator portion 35 of the ink container 34. The number of light bulbs is not limited to one. Multiple light bulbs may be arranged in the light path 63. The position of the light bulbs is not limited to the position of the LED 71 shown in Figure 14. Preferably, the light bulbs are positioned so that the ink level indicator portion 35, which is visible in the ink level confirmation window 25, is easily visible to the user. Preferably, the light bulbs are positioned so that the printing medium M, which is visible in the cassette front opening 41, is easily visible to the user. The light bulbs correspond to an example of an illumination unit.

[0099] Thus, it is preferable that the printer 100 is provided in the optical path 63 and includes a light source that emits light. By providing a light source in the optical path 63, the user can more easily see the amount of ink stored in the ink container 34. The user can also more easily see the printing medium M contained in the paper feed cassette 40.

[0100] The printer 100 may be equipped with a light guide member 80 that guides light to the ink container 34. Figures 15 and 16 show the configuration of the light guide member 80. Figures 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22 show the relationship between the amount of ink stored in the ink container 34 and the light guide member 80. The light guide member 80 corresponds to an example of a light guide section.

[0101] Figure 15 shows an ink container 34 equipped with a light guide member 80. Figure 15 shows a magenta ink container 34M as an example of an ink container 34. The black ink container 34K, cyan ink container 34C, and yellow ink container 34Y may have the same configuration as the magenta ink container 34M shown in Figure 15.

[0102] The ink container 34 shown in Figure 15 includes a light guide member 80. The light guide member 80 is provided in the optical path 63 and inside the ink container 34. The light guide member 80 is provided at a position in the +Y direction of the ink level indicator 35. The light guide member 80 is provided inside the ink storage chamber 36. An example of the ink container 34, the magenta ink container 34M, includes a magenta ink light guide member 80M. The magenta ink light guide member 80M is provided in the optical path 63 and inside the magenta ink container 34M. The magenta ink light guide member 80M is provided at a position in the +Y direction of the magenta ink level indicator 35M. The magenta ink light guide member 80M is provided inside the magenta ink storage chamber 36M. The light guide member 80 may be provided only inside the ink container 34.

[0103] Figure 16 shows a schematic configuration of the light guide member 80. One end of the light guide member 80 is provided in the optical path 63. The other end of the light guide member 80 is provided in the ink storage chamber 36 of the ink container 34. The light guide member 80 includes a light receiving section 81, a first light emitting section 83, a second light emitting section 85, a third light emitting section 87, and a fourth light emitting section 89. The light guide member 80 shown in Figure 16 has four light emitting sections, but is not limited to this. The light guide member 80 only needs to have one or more light emitting sections. One or more light-emitting units are provided at positions spaced apart from the ink level indicator unit 35. One end of the magenta ink light guide member 80M, which is an example of the light guide member 80, is provided in the optical path 63. The other end of the magenta ink light guide member 80M is provided in the magenta ink storage chamber 36M of the magenta ink container 34M. The magenta ink light guide member 80M includes a light receiving section 81M for magenta ink, a first light emitting section 83M for magenta ink, a second light emitting section 85M for magenta ink, a third light emitting section 87M for magenta ink, and a fourth light emitting section 89M for magenta ink. The configuration of the magenta ink light guide member 80M is the same as that of the light guide member 80, and details are described in the section on the light guide member 80.

[0104] The light-receiving portion 81 allows light to enter the interior of the light-guiding member 80. The light-receiving portion 81 constitutes one end of the light-guiding member 80. The light-receiving portion 81 is positioned at the lower end of the light-guiding member 80 in the -Z direction. The light-receiving portion 81 is provided in the optical path 63. The light-receiving portion 81 allows light passing through the optical path 63 to enter the interior of the light-guiding member 80.

[0105] The first light-emitting unit 83 emits light from the light-receiving unit 81. The first light-emitting unit 83 constitutes the other end of the light-guiding member 80. The first light-emitting unit 83 is located above the light-receiving unit 81. The first light-emitting unit 83 is located at the top of the plurality of light-emitting units. The first light-emitting unit 83 faces the ink level display unit 35.

[0106] The second light-emitting unit 85 emits light from the light-receiving unit 81. The second light-emitting unit 85 is located below the first light-emitting unit 83. The second light-emitting unit 85 is located above the light-receiving unit 81. The second light-emitting unit 85 is located between the first light-emitting unit 83 and the light-receiving unit 81 along the Z-axis. The second light-emitting unit 85 faces the ink level display unit 35.

[0107] The third light-emitting unit 87 emits light from the light-receiving unit 81. The third light-emitting unit 87 is located below the second light-emitting unit 85. The third light-emitting unit 87 is located above the light-receiving unit 81. The third light-emitting unit 87 is located along the Z-axis between the second light-emitting unit 85 and the light-receiving unit 81. The third light-emitting unit 87 faces the ink level display unit 35.

[0108] The fourth light-emitting unit 89 emits light from the light-receiving unit 81. The fourth light-emitting unit 89 is located below the third light-emitting unit 87. The fourth light-emitting unit 89 is located above the light-receiving unit 81. The fourth light-emitting unit 89 is located between the third light-emitting unit 87 and the light-receiving unit 81 along the Z-axis. The fourth light-emitting unit 89 faces the ink level display unit 35.

[0109] Figures 17 and 18 show an ink container 34 that stores ink L at a first water level WL1. Figure 17 shows a YZ cross-section of the ink container 34 that stores ink L at a first water level WL1. Figure 18 shows an XZ cross-section of the ink container 34 that stores ink L at a first water level WL1. Figure 18 shows an XZ cross-section between the ink level indicator 35 and the light guide member 80. Figures 17 and 18 show a magenta ink container 34M that stores magenta ink LM, which is an example of ink L. Further details will be explained in the sections on the ink container 34 and the light guide member 80.

[0110] As shown in Figures 17 and 18, the ink container 34 stores ink L at a first water level WL1. The first water level WL1 is, for example, the water level when the ink container 34 is filled to its maximum capacity. When the ink container 34 stores ink L at the first water level WL1, the first light-emitting part 83, second light-emitting part 85, third light-emitting part 87, and fourth light-emitting part 89 of the light guide member 80 are located within the ink L. The light emitted by the first light-emitting part 83, second light-emitting part 85, third light-emitting part 87, and fourth light-emitting part 89 does not reach the ink level display unit 35 due to the stored ink L. Alternatively, even if the light emitted by the first light-emitting part 83, second light-emitting part 85, third light-emitting part 87, and fourth light-emitting part 89 does reach the ink level display unit 35, the amount of light is less than when there is no ink L. The user cannot see the light emitted by the first light-emitting unit 83, the second light-emitting unit 85, the third light-emitting unit 87, and the fourth light-emitting unit 89. Or, the user has difficulty seeing the light emitted by the first light-emitting unit 83, the second light-emitting unit 85, the third light-emitting unit 87, and the fourth light-emitting unit 89. The user can confirm that the water level of the ink L stored in the ink container 34 is the first water level WL1 by looking at the ink level display unit 35.

[0111] Figures 19 and 20 show an ink container 34 that stores ink L at a second water level WL2. Figure 19 shows a YZ cross-section of the ink container 34 that stores ink L at a second water level WL2. The second water level WL2 is, for example, the water level when half of the maximum amount of ink L is stored in the ink container 34. Figure 20 shows an XZ cross-section of the ink container 34 that stores ink L at a second water level WL. Figure 20 shows an XZ cross-section between the ink level indicator 35 and the light guide member 80. Figures 19 and 20 show a magenta ink container 34M that stores magenta ink LM, which is an example of ink L. Further details will be explained in the sections on the ink container 34 and the light guide member 80.

[0112] As shown in Figures 19 and 20, the ink container 34 stores ink L at a second water level WL2. When the ink container 34 stores ink L at a second water level WL2, the first light-emitting part 83 and the second light-emitting part 85 of the light guide member 80 are located above the second water level WL2. The first light-emitting part 83 and the second light-emitting part 85 are exposed. The third light-emitting part 87 and the fourth light-emitting part 89 are located within the ink L. The light emitted by the first light-emitting part 83 and the second light-emitting part 85 is visible on the ink level display unit 35. The light emitted by the third light-emitting part 87 and the fourth light-emitting part 89 does not reach the ink level display unit 35 due to the stored ink L. Or, even if the light emitted by the third light-emitting part 87 and the fourth light-emitting part 89 reaches the ink level display unit 35, the amount of light is less than when there is no ink L. The user can see the light emitted by the first light-emitting part 83 and the second light-emitting part 85. The user cannot see the light emitted by the third light-emitting unit 87 and the fourth light-emitting unit 89. Or, the user has difficulty seeing the light emitted by the third light-emitting unit 87 and the fourth light-emitting unit 89. The user can confirm that the water level of the ink L stored in the ink container 34 is the second water level WL2 by looking at the ink level display unit 35.

[0113] Figures 21 and 22 show an ink container 34 that stores ink L at a third water level WL3. Figure 21 shows a YZ cross-section of the ink container 34 that stores ink L at a third water level WL3. The third water level WL3 is, for example, the water level when the amount of ink L that needs to be replenished is reached. Figure 22 shows an XZ cross-section of the ink container 34 that stores ink L at a third water level WL3. Figure 22 shows an XZ cross-section between the ink level indicator 35 and the light guide member 80. Figures 21 and 22 show a magenta ink container 34M that stores magenta ink LM, which is an example of ink L. Further details will be explained in the sections on the ink container 34 and the light guide member 80.

[0114] As shown in Figures 21 and 22, the ink container 34 stores ink L at a third water level WL3. When the ink container 34 stores ink L at a third water level WL3, the first light-emitting part 83, second light-emitting part 85, third light-emitting part 87, and fourth light-emitting part 89 of the light guide member 80 are located above the third water level WL3. The light emitted from the first light-emitting part 83, second light-emitting part 85, third light-emitting part 87, and fourth light-emitting part 89 becomes visible on the ink level display unit 35. The user can see the light emitted from the first light-emitting part 83, second light-emitting part 85, third light-emitting part 87, and fourth light-emitting part 89. By looking at the ink level display unit 35, the user can confirm that the water level of ink L stored in the ink container 34 is at the third water level WL3. When the amount of ink L at the third water level WL3 is set to a predetermined ink near-end amount or the ink end amount, the user can confirm that ink L needs to be refilled.

[0115] The printer 100 preferably includes a light guide member 80 that guides light to the ink container 34. The user can check the ink level L stored in the ink container 34 by looking at the ink level indicator 35.

[0116] The light-emitting portion of the light guide member 80 may not be separated from the ink level indicator 35, but may be in contact with it. In this configuration, the light-emitting portion can be seen regardless of the ink level. The light guide member 80 may also be provided at a position in the -Y direction of the ink level indicator 35. That is, it may be provided outside the ink container 34. In this configuration, the light from the light-emitting portion can be seen more clearly. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 10...Scanning unit, 11...Document placement unit, 13...Document transport unit, 20...Printing unit, 21...Cover body, 21a...Ink container cover, 23...Operation panel, 25...Ink level confirmation window, 25C...Cyan ink level confirmation window, 25K...Black ink level confirmation window, 25M...Magenta ink level confirmation window, 25Y...Yellow ink level confirmation window, 27...Light-gathering window, 29...Cover opening, 30...Printing unit, 31...Print head, 33...Carriage, 34...Ink container, 34C...Cyan ink container, 34K...Black ink container, 34M...Magenta Container, 34Y...Yellow ink container, 35...Ink level indicator, 35C...Cyan ink level indicator, 35K...Black ink level indicator, 35M...Magenta ink level indicator, 35Y...Yellow ink level indicator, 36...Ink storage chamber, 36C...Cyan ink storage chamber, 36M...Magenta ink storage chamber, 37...Gas-liquid exchange port, 37C...Cyan container gas-liquid exchange port, 38...Buffer chamber, 38C...Cyan ink buffer chamber, 40...Paper feed cassette, 40B...Bottom of cassette, 40F...Front of cassette, 40S...Side of cassette, 40T...Cassette Top surface of cassette, 41...Front opening of cassette, 41T...Top opening, 42...Side opening of cassette, 43...Pickup roller, 45...First transport roller pair, 47...Second transport roller pair, 49...Third transport roller pair, 51...Fourth transport roller pair, 55...Platen, 57...Paper output roller pair, 60...Paper output tray, 60a...Bottom surface of paper output tray, 63...Optical path, 65...Reflective member, 65a...First reflector, 65b...Second reflector, 71...LED, 80...Light guide member, 80M...Magenta ink light guide member, 81...Light input section, 81M...Input for magenta ink Light unit, 83...First light-emitting unit, 83M...First light-emitting unit for magenta ink, 85...Second light-emitting unit, 85M...Second light-emitting unit for magenta ink, 87...Third light-emitting unit, 87M...Third light-emitting unit for magenta ink, 89...Fourth light-emitting unit, 89M...Fourth light-emitting unit for magenta ink, 100...Printer, L...Ink, LC...Cyan ink, LK...Black ink, LM...Magenta ink, LY...Yellow ink, M...Printing medium, VL1...First virtual line, VL2...Second virtual line, VA...Virtual range, WL1...First water level, WL2...Second water level, WL3...Third water level.

Claims

1. A recording unit that performs recording by discharging liquid onto a medium, A liquid storage unit for containing the liquid discharged by the recording unit, The housing includes an outer casing for housing the liquid storage section, The liquid storage section has a viewing area configured to allow the liquid to be stored to be visually observed. The exterior of the housing portion of the housing is A viewing section facing the aforementioned viewing area and configured to allow the liquid to be seen, The housing has a light-gathering section that takes in light from the outside, Between the liquid storage section and the outer casing of the storage section, there is an optical path that allows the captured light to pass through. Recording device.

2. The light-gathering section is provided below the viewing section. The recording device according to claim 1.

3. The liquid storage section is A gas-liquid exchange unit that performs gas-liquid exchange, It comprises a storage section capable of containing the liquid flowing out from the gas-liquid exchange section, The light-gathering section is provided at a position on the exterior of the housing section facing the storage section. The recording device according to claim 2.

4. The optical path is further provided with a reflective portion that reflects the light, The reflective portion reflects the light back to the viewing area. A recording device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The aforementioned light path is further provided with an illumination unit that emits light, A recording device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The system further includes a light guide that directs the light to the liquid containment section. A recording device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. It further comprises a second liquid storage section for containing a second liquid, The second liquid storage section has a second viewing area configured to allow the second liquid to be stored to be visually observed. The viewing area has a first region facing the viewing area and a second region facing the second viewing area. The light-gathering section is provided below the first region and the second region. The recording device according to claim 2.

8. The system further comprises a media storage section for accommodating the aforementioned media, The exterior of the housing section has an exterior opening facing the media housing section. The media housing unit is A member opening opposite the exterior opening, It has a media viewing section configured to allow the contained medium to be seen, The aforementioned light path communicates with the member opening through the exterior opening. A recording device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

9. A recording unit that performs recording by discharging liquid onto a medium, A liquid storage unit for containing the liquid discharged by the recording unit, A housing including an outer casing for housing the liquid storage section, The system comprises a media viewing section configured to allow the media to be viewed, and a media storage section for storing the media, The exterior of the housing section has a light-gathering section that takes in light from the outside of the housing, and an exterior opening that faces the media housing section. A light path is provided on the inside of the exterior of the housing that allows the light taken in by the light-gathering section to pass through. The media housing section has a member opening facing the outer opening, The aforementioned light path communicates with the member opening through the exterior opening. Recording device.

10. The optical path is further provided with a reflective portion that reflects the light, The reflective portion reflects the light toward the exterior opening. The recording device according to claim 9.

11. The media storage section has a first surface positioned in the direction of removal, and a second surface positioned above it. The media viewing section is provided on the first surface and the second surface, The recording device according to claim 9 or 10.

12. When viewed from a position opposite the exterior opening, the light-gathering section and the media viewing section overlap in the vertical direction. A recording device according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

13. At least a portion of the inner surface of the media housing is mirror-finished. A recording device according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

14. The liquid storage section is A gas-liquid exchange unit that performs gas-liquid exchange, It comprises a storage section capable of containing the liquid flowing out from the gas-liquid exchange section, The light-gathering section is provided at a position on the exterior of the housing section facing the storage section. A recording device according to any one of claims 9 to 13.

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