Ink container and method for manufacturing an ink container

Abstract

To provide an ink container made of biomass plastic that has improved strength against impacts such as dropping the ink container. [Solution] The ink container of the present disclosure is an ink container for supplying ink to an ink dispensing device, the ink container having an ink storage section for storing the ink and a dispensing section for dispensing the ink stored in the ink storage section, wherein the ink storage section has (a) a first region and a second region and a main body region sandwiched between the first region and the second region, (b) the first region and the main body region, or (c) the second region and the main body region, the main body region comprising a first resin derived from biomass, and the first region and the second region comprising a second resin derived from fossil fuels. The technology of the present disclosure can contribute to the realization of a sustainable society such as a decarbonized / circular economy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ink storage container used in an ink ejection device and a method for manufacturing the ink storage container.

Background Art

[0002] An inkjet recording device is known as an ink ejection device that ejects ink to perform recording. In this inkjet recording device, minute ink is ejected from an inkjet recording head as a liquid ejection unit, and characters and images are formed on a recording medium to perform recording. Inkjet recording devices are used as household appliances, office equipment, etc., and have further spread to industrial applications. The ink storage container, which is a recording material for this inkjet recording device, is used to replenish the inkjet recording device with ink through an injection port provided in the inkjet recording device for injecting the ink. Further, the ink storage container is mainly formed of a plastic material derived from fossil fuel.

[0003] In recent years, product development for reducing the burden on the global environment has been demanded in all industries that develop, produce, and sell such products. Recycling or reuse is a method for reducing the environmental burden in all liquid storage containers including ink storage containers. In recent years, as another method for reducing the environmental burden, the material used for the liquid storage container has been changed from a plastic material derived from fossil fuel to a material with a lower environmental burden.

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses an ink storage container for providing an environmentally considerate ink storage container. Patent Document 1 proposes that at least a part of the components of the ink storage container be formed of a material containing a biomass resin.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006] To reduce the burden on the global environment, it is conceivable to replace fossil fuel-derived plastic materials used in ink containers with biomass plastics. However, some biomass plastic materials used as replacements may not have sufficient strength to withstand the impact when an ink container is dropped. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce the possibility of damage to the ink container when the user accidentally drops it. The inventors of this invention have recognized that ink containers disclosed to date have shortcomings in terms of strength.

[0007] This disclosure aims to improve the strength of the ink container against impacts such as when the ink container is dropped. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] This disclosure relates to an ink container for supplying ink to an ink dispensing device, wherein the ink container comprises an ink storage section for storing the ink and a dispensing section for dispensing the ink stored in the ink storage section, and the ink storage section has (a) a first region and a second region and a main body region sandwiched between the first region and the second region, (b) the first region and the main body region, or (c) the second region and the main body region, wherein the main body region contains a first resin derived from biomass, and the first region and the second region consist of a second resin derived from fossil fuels. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, an ink container made of biomass plastic is provided that has improved strength against impacts such as when the ink container is dropped. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the process of replenishing liquid from an inkjet recording device and ink container. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a side view showing an ink container according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a side view showing an ink container according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a side view showing an ink container according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a side view showing an ink container according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a side view showing an ink container according to the third embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a side view showing an ink container according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a side view showing an ink container according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a side view showing an ink container according to the fourth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Product development that reduces the burden on the global environment is required in all industries involved in product development, production, and sales. Recycling or reuse are methods to reduce the environmental impact of all liquid containers, including ink containers. In addition, another method to reduce the environmental impact is to change the materials used in liquid containers from fossil fuel-derived plastics to materials with a lower environmental impact. Examples of materials with a lower environmental impact include biomass plastics made from biological resources such as plants, biodegradable plastics, and paper materials. In this way, efforts are being made to reduce the use of fossil fuel-derived plastic materials.

[0012] Fossil fuel-derived plastic materials consume various energies and emit a large amount of carbon dioxide in the processes from oil extraction to plastic manufacturing, processing into products, and incineration when the materials are discarded. On the other hand, the raw materials of biomass plastics are mainly plants. Therefore, when plants are cultivated, carbon dioxide is absorbed through photosynthesis. Thus, when manufacturing, discarding, incinerating, etc. biomass plastics, even if carbon dioxide is emitted, the amount of carbon dioxide generated during the entire life cycle of biomass plastics can be made close to zero, plus or minus.

[0013] From the above perspective, in order to reduce the burden on the global environment, it is conceivable to replace the fossil fuel-derived plastic materials used in ink storage containers with biomass plastics. In such a case, if one attempts to obtain biomass plastics at a low cost, biomass plastics produced by mechanical recycling or the like will be used. Some biomass plastics produced by mechanical recycling do not guarantee the physical properties related to strength when used as materials for ink storage containers. Also, depending on the organisms that are the raw materials of biomass plastics, their physical properties related to strength are not guaranteed when used as ink storage containers. Therefore, when the user of the container accidentally drops the ink storage container, when there is liquid in the container, due to the influence of the center of gravity, the upper part or the bottom of the ink storage container is likely to hit the ground, and the ink storage container may be damaged. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce the possibility of damage to the upper part or the bottom of the ink storage container. The inventors of the present invention have recognized that there are difficulties in the strength of the ink storage containers disclosed so far.

[0014] The present disclosure relates to an ink storage container, and particularly to an ink storage container with improved strength against impacts such as when the ink storage container is dropped. The present disclosure also relates to a method for manufacturing such an ink storage container.

[0015] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an inkjet recording apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure and a state when liquid (ink) is replenished into the inkjet recording apparatus.

[0017] An inkjet recording apparatus is a device that performs recording by ejecting ink onto a recording medium while reciprocally moving a recording head in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the recording medium. As shown in FIG. 1, the inkjet recording apparatus includes an ink tank for storing ink, and there is a type that supplies ink from an ink storage container to this ink tank. This type of inkjet recording apparatus injects or replenishes ink of a desired color from the ink storage container 100 into the ink tank 102. When replenishing the ink, the user of the inkjet recording apparatus 1000 holds the ink storage container 100 and fills the ink through the ink inlet 104 of the ink tank. For example, the ink storage container 100 has an ink storage portion 106 and an ink dispensing portion 108. Further, the ink dispensing portion 108 has a discharge port for discharging the ink stored in the ink storage portion 106 to the outside.

[0018] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, when replenishing ink to the inkjet recording apparatus 1000, the user inserts the discharge port of the ink storage container 100 into the ink inlet 104 provided in the inkjet recording apparatus for injecting ink. Next, the user lifts the ink storage container 100 by hand and tilts the discharge port of the ink storage container in the direction of gravity (the direction of the ground surface). By tilting the ink storage container 100, the ink stored in the ink storage portion 106 moves toward the discharge port by gravity. The ink that has moved to the discharge port is replenished into the ink tank 102 of the inkjet recording apparatus 1000 through the ink inlet 104 provided in the inkjet recording apparatus 1000.

[0019] The present disclosure relates to an ink storage container as described above.

[0020] Embodiments of the ink container of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are intended to illustrate examples of this disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure to these embodiments. The dimensions, shapes, numbers, materials, etc. of the various components in each of the embodiments below can be modified as appropriate within the scope of this disclosure unless otherwise specified.

[0021] (First embodiment) Figures 2 and 3 are side views showing an ink container according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] As shown in Figure 2, the ink container 100 has an ink storage section 200 and an ink dispensing section 202 for storing ink containing colorants, solvents, surfactants, water, etc. The ink dispensing section 202 has a dispensing outlet 204 for dispensing the ink stored in the ink storage section 200 to the outside. Although not shown in Figure 2, the ink container 100 is also equipped with a removable cap as a separate component that covers the dispensing outlet 204. This cap is for preventing ink leakage except when refilling ink from the ink container 100. The material used for this cap is not particularly limited. That is, known materials can be used for the cap.

[0023] The ink container 100 has an ink storage section 200 with a first end 206 and a second end 208. The first end 206 and the second end 208 of the ink container are opposite ends in the ink storage section 200. The ink container 100 has a dispensing section 202 at the first end 206. In this disclosure, the end of the ink storage section having the dispensing section 202 is referred to as the first end 206 (see Figure 2), and the end located on the opposite side of the end of the ink storage section having the dispensing section 202 is referred to as the second end 208 (see Figure 2).

[0024] The ink storage portion 200 has a side region of the ink storage portion (hereinafter also referred to simply as the side region) 210 extending between the first end portion 206 and the second end portion.

[0025] The shape of the ink storage portion 200 of the ink storage container is not particularly limited, as long as it is a shape known for ink storage containers.

[0026] The ink container 100 has a first region 212 and a second region 214 extending from a first end 206 and a second end 208 to a certain range within the ink storage portion 200, respectively. The ink storage portion 200 also has a main body region (hereinafter referred to as the main body region) 216 of the ink storage portion sandwiched between the first region 212 and the second region 214. The first region 212 and the second region 214 and the main body region 216 are separated by boundary portions 218 and 220.

[0027] In this specification, when indicating the orientation of an ink container, the orientation may be defined by the X, Y, and Z axes. These axes are indicated by directional axes with arrows or directional markings shown in each drawing. For each of these directional axes, the direction pointed in the direction of the arrow or directional marking is defined as the "+" direction of each axis. When the direction of an axis is referred to without specifying the "+" or "-" direction for each axis, it is simply referred to as the "X-axis direction," "Y-axis direction," or "Z-axis direction." In descriptions referring to an ink container in this disclosure, when the ink container is positioned with the dispensing section 202 facing the "+Z" direction (see, for example, Figure 2), the orientation of the ink container is referred to as "upward," "upward," or "+Z direction." Furthermore, when the ink container is positioned with the dispensing section 202 facing the "+Z" direction, the direction toward the second end of the ink container 100 (the direction opposite to the direction of the dispensing section 202) is referred to as "downward," "downward," or "-Z direction." In this disclosure, when the side of the first end is facing "upward" or "+Z direction," the side including the first end may be referred to as the "upper part." Also in this disclosure, when the side of the second end is facing "downward" or "-Z direction," the side including the second end may be referred to as the "lower part."

[0028] <Ink container configuration> The following describes the various regions of the ink container of this disclosure.

[0029] The first region 212 of the ink container of this disclosure is a fixed region extending from the first end (the end of the ink container having the dispensing portion 202) into the side region of the ink container (within the main body region). The second region 214 is a fixed region extending from the second end (the end located opposite to the end of the ink container having the dispensing portion 202) into the side region of the ink container (within the main body region).

[0030] Referring to Figure 2, the first and second regions will be described in more detail. The first region 212 refers to a fixed region (a portion having the height indicated by h1 in Figure 2) extending from the first end 206 toward the second end. In this embodiment, it is preferable that the height (h1) of this first region 212 is within the range of 45% or less of the overall height of the ink storage section 200, i.e., the height of the side region 210 of the ink storage section (the height from the first end 206 to the second end 208). It is even more preferable that this height (h1) is in the range of 0.5 to 45%. The second region 214 refers to a fixed region (a portion having the height indicated by h2 in Figure 2) extending from the second end 208 toward the first end. In this embodiment, it is preferable that the second region 214 is a region whose height (h2) is 45% or less of the overall height of the ink storage section 200, i.e., the height of the side region 210 of the ink storage section (height from the first end 206 to the second end 208). It is even more preferable that this height (h2) is in the range of 0.5 to 45%. It is even more preferable that the first region 212 is a region whose height is 10% or more and 25% or less of the overall height of the ink storage section 200, measured from the first end. It is even more preferable that the second region 214 is a region whose height is 10% or more and 25% or less of the overall height of the ink storage section 200, measured from the second end.

[0031] The shape of the first region 212 is not particularly limited, but it is preferable, for example, to be a rectangle of equal height from the first end 206 when viewed from the side of the ink container, as shown in Figure 2. Similarly, the shape of the second region 214 is not particularly limited. For example, it is preferable, for example, to be a rectangle of equal height from the second end 208 when viewed from the side of the ink container, as shown in Figure 2. If the shapes of the first and second regions are not rectangles as described above, the height of these regions shall be the average of the shortest and longest lengths from the first end or the second end.

[0032] The ink container 100 of this disclosure is formed from a resin material such as plastic. In the ink container 100 of this disclosure, the first region 212 and the second region 214 are composed of a resin derived from fossil fuels. For example, polyolefins such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS) can be used as resins derived from fossil fuels in the ink container 100 of this disclosure. Other usable resins derived from fossil fuels include polyesters (PEs) such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The ink container of this disclosure can use a material that combines the above resins.

[0033] In this embodiment, the main body region 216 is the region sandwiched between the first region 212 and the second region 214 of the ink storage section 200, as shown in Figure 2, and is distinguished from these regions by the boundary portion 218 with the first region and the boundary portion 220 with the second region.

[0034] The main body region 216 is composed of a bio-derived resin, i.e., a biomass-derived resin. Examples of biomass-derived resins include biomass polyolefins such as biomass polyethylene, biomass polypropylene, and biomass polystyrene. Other usable biomass-derived resins include biomass polyesters such as biomass polyethylene terephthalate. Furthermore, the biomass-derived resin usable in the ink container of this disclosure can be a combination of the above resins. The biomass resin usable in this disclosure has the above biomass-derived resin as its main component. In the main body region of the ink container 100 of this disclosure, "main component" with respect to the biomass-derived resin refers to the range of content of the above biomass-derived resin in the main body region 216. In other words, the main body region 216 may contain fossil fuel-derived resin in addition to the main component biomass-derived resin. The biomass-derived resin content in the main body region 216 is most preferably 100% by mass, based on the total mass of the main body region 216. Next, a preferred content is 60% by mass or more and 99% by mass or less of biomass-derived resin, based on the total mass of the main body region 216. In the ink container 100 of this disclosure, it is preferable that the biomass-derived resin content be 10% by mass or more, based on the total mass of the ink container 100. Furthermore, if the main body region 216 contains a fossil fuel-derived resin, the combination of these resins is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to use the same type of fossil fuel-derived resin as the biomass-derived resin due to relationships such as compatibility and mechanical properties. Specifically, for example, if the biomass-derived resin is a biomass polyolefin (e.g., biomass polyethylene), it is preferable to use a polyolefin (e.g., polyethylene) as the fossil fuel-derived resin as well.

[0035] As described above, the ink container of this disclosure uses fossil fuel-derived resin in the first region 212 and the second region 214, and a resin mainly composed of biomass-derived resin in the main body region 216. The fossil fuel-derived resin used in the ink container of this disclosure has higher rigidity than the biomass-derived resin. Specifically, the fossil fuel-derived resin has higher impact strengths, such as Izod impact strength and Charpy impact strength at room temperature (23°C to 25°C), than the biomass-derived resin. The Charpy impact strength of the fossil fuel-derived resin is 7 kJ / m 2 More than 25kJ / m 2 The following range is preferred. On the other hand, the Charpy impact strength of biomass-derived resin is 2 kJ / m 2 More than 15kJ / m 2 The following range is preferred. Within this range, depending on the required specifications, the resin derived from fossil fuels should be selected such that it has a higher Charpy impact strength than the resin derived from biomass. For example, a Charpy impact strength of 17 kJ / m 2 Polyethylene and 10kJ / m 2 Biomass polyethylene can be used. In the ink container of this disclosure, the fossil fuel-derived resin used in the first and second regions is preferably made of fossil fuel-derived resin (the term "made of" includes being made of only fossil fuel-derived resin), insofar as it has the strength described above.

[0036] In this disclosure, either a resin derived from fossil fuels or a resin derived from biomass can be colored. Alternatively, both of these resins may be colored in different colors so that the first and second regions containing each resin can be visually distinguished from the main body region. In this disclosure, either a resin derived from fossil fuels or a resin derived from biomass can be colored, and the compatible portions 302 and 304 can be colored so that the first and second regions can be visually distinguished from the main body region.

[0037] The dispensing section 202, which has an ink outlet 204, is provided at the first end 206 of the ink storage section 200. The dispensing section 202 can be integrally formed with the ink storage section 200 using a resin derived from fossil fuels, similar to the ink storage section 200. Alternatively, the dispensing section 202 may be a separate part from the ink storage section 200. The dispensing section 202 may also have a spout-like shape and function. The shape, size, and other characteristics of the dispensing outlet of the dispensing section 202 are not particularly limited, as long as it is capable of injecting ink into the ink tank of an inkjet recording device. Any commonly used form is acceptable.

[0038] <Manufacturing method for ink containers> The method for manufacturing the ink container of this disclosure is described below.

[0039] First, a method for forming the ink storage portion 200 of the ink storage container 100 will be described below. The ink storage container of this disclosure includes the step of forming the ink storage portion 200 and the dispensing portion 202. In this embodiment, the formation of the ink storage portion includes forming a main body region and a first region and a second region.

[0040] The ink reservoir 200 can be formed, for example, by a two-color molding method using blow molding, by welding using heat, laser, or ultrasonic waves, or by bonding with an adhesive. The method for forming the ink reservoir 200 is not particularly limited, and other known methods may be used.

[0041] When the ink reservoir 200 is formed by two-color blow molding, a compatible portion consisting of a resin derived from fossil fuels and a resin derived from biomass may be formed. For example, as shown in Figure 3, compatible portions 302 and 304 may exist in the ink reservoir 200 due to two-color molding. Compatible portions 302 and 304 correspond to the boundary portions 218 and 220 between the first region 212 and the main body region 216, and the boundary portions 214 and 216, respectively. The regions and shapes of these compatible portions are not particularly limited and can be set by the molding conditions of the two-color molding. In Figure 3, the shapes of compatible portions 302 and 304, as well as the first region 212 and the second region 214, are depicted as having a wavy shape at the boundary with the main body region 216. However, the ink reservoir 100 of this disclosure is not limited to such shapes. Any shape is acceptable as long as the first region 212 and the second region 214 and the main body region 216 can be distinguished, and these regions can be cut and divided when the container is recovered.

[0042] As described above, the first region 212 and the second region 214 of the ink storage section 200 are made of fossil fuel-derived resin, and the main body region 216 is made of a resin mainly composed of biomass-derived resin. From the viewpoint of manufacturing methods, it is desirable to use the same type of resin for these components. Specifically, if polyolefin (e.g., polyethylene) is used for the fossil fuel-derived resin, it is preferable to use biomass polyolefin (e.g., biomass polyethylene) for the biomass-derived resin.

[0043] As described above, the ink container of this disclosure may be made by using a material in which at least one of a fossil fuel-derived resin and a biomass-derived resin is colored, so that the first and second regions and the main body region are visually distinguished. Such an ink container with visual distinction can be prepared by forming a resin in which at least one of a fossil fuel-derived resin and a biomass-derived resin is colored using a two-color molding method.

[0044] The dispensing section 202, which has an ink outlet 204, can be formed integrally with the ink storage section 200, or it may be a separate part from the ink storage section 200. If the dispensing section 202 is formed as a separate part, it is joined to the ink storage section 200 after the dispensing section 202 has been formed. Examples of joining methods include mechanical joining such as screw fastening and fitting, joining by insert molding, welding by heat or laser, and bonding with adhesive.

[0045] The fossil fuel-derived resin used in the ink container of this disclosure has higher rigidity than the biomass-derived resin. Specifically, the fossil fuel-derived resin has higher impact strengths, such as Izod impact strength and Charpy impact strength at room temperature (23°C to 25°C), than the biomass-derived resin. The Charpy impact strength of the fossil fuel-derived resin is as described above. For example, the Charpy impact strength of the previously exemplified resin is 17 kJ / m². 2 Polyethylene and 10kJ / m 2 We were able to fabricate the ink container of this disclosure using biomass polyethylene.

[0046] As explained above, the ink container 100 of this disclosure has a first region 212 and a second region 214 formed of a fossil fuel-derived resin with higher strength than the main body region. On the other hand, the main body region 216 sandwiched between the first region 212 and the second region 214 is formed of a biomass-derived resin with lower strength than these regions. Here, if the user accidentally drops the ink container, with liquid inside the container, the second end or the first end of the container is more likely to hit the ground due to the influence of the center of gravity. In addition, the first region 212 on the first end side and the second region 214 on the second end side of the ink container 100 are formed of a fossil fuel-derived resin with higher strength than the biomass-derived resin of the main body region 216. Therefore, when the ink container 100 is dropped, it will fall from the first end or the second end side formed of the high-strength fossil fuel-derived resin, and the possibility of damage to the ink container 100 due to the impact of the fall can be reduced. On the other hand, the main body region 216 of the ink container 100 is made of biomass-derived resin, and the amount of carbon dioxide generated over its lifetime can be reduced to near zero. Furthermore, the ink container 100 of this disclosure can be configured so that the first region 212 and the second region 214 are distinguishable from the main body region 216. Therefore, when a manufacturer collects the ink container 100, they can separate and cut the first region 212 and the second region 214 from the main body region. This allows for the separate collection of fossil fuel-derived resin and biomass-derived resin, making it possible to reuse each resin. In the ink container of this disclosure, as described above, either the fossil fuel-derived resin or the biomass-derived resin can be colored, or these resins can be colored in different colors. In this case, it becomes easier to distinguish between the types of resins. Thus, the technology described herein can reduce environmental impact and contribute to the realization of a sustainable society such as a decarbonized / circular economy.

[0047] (Second embodiment) A second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 and 5.

[0048] Figures 4 and 5 are side views showing an ink container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] In the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, either the first region 212 or the second region 214 of the ink container 100 is located in the ink storage section 200. The remaining portion of the ink storage section 200 becomes the main body region 216. In this embodiment, the ink storage section is formed of either the first region 212 or the second region 214 from a resin derived from fossil fuels, and the remaining main body region 216 is formed from a material mainly containing a resin derived from biomass. On the other hand, in the embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 3 described above, both the first region 212 and the second region 214 of the ink container 100 are located in the ink storage section 200, and these are formed from a resin derived from fossil fuels. The main body region 216 is located in the region sandwiched between these regions, and the main body region 216 is formed from a material containing a resin derived from biomass. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in this respect.

[0050] The first example of the second embodiment is the ink container shown in Figure 4. In this example, the ink container 100 has an ink storage section 200 consisting of a main body area 216 and a second area 214. In this embodiment shown in Figure 4, there is no first area 212, and the ink storage section 200 extends from the first end 206 to the main body area 216 of the ink storage section. In the first example, it is preferable that the second area 214, when measured from the second end, is an area whose height is 45% or less of the total height of the ink storage section 200 (height from the first end 206 to the second end 208). Furthermore, it is more preferable that the second area 214, when measured from the second end, is an area whose height is 0.5 to 45% of the total height of the ink storage section 200. The shapes and characteristics of the other areas in the first example are as described in the first embodiment. Although Figure 4 illustrates a configuration having a compatible portion 304, the ink container 100 of this disclosure is not limited to this configuration.

[0051] A second example of the second embodiment is the ink container 100 shown in Figure 5. In this example, the ink container 100 has an ink storage section 200 consisting of a main body area 216 and a first area 212. In this embodiment shown in Figure 5, there is no second area 214, and the main body area 216 of the ink storage section extends from the boundary of the first area 212 toward the second end. In the second example, it is preferable that the first area 212 is an area whose height is 45% or less of the total height of the ink storage section 200 (height from the first end 206 to the second end 208) when measured from the first end. Furthermore, it is preferable that the range of this first area 212 is an area whose height is 0.5% or more and 45% or less of the total height of the ink storage section 200 when measured from the first end. The shapes and characteristics of the other areas in the second example are as described in the first embodiment. Although Figure 5 illustrates a configuration having a compatible portion 302, the ink container 100 of this disclosure is not limited to this configuration.

[0052] With the above configuration, the strength of either the first or second end of the ink container 100 can be improved. In addition, the amount of biomass-derived resin used in the ink container 100 can be increased. As a result, the environmental impact can be reduced even further compared to the first embodiment.

[0053] The method for manufacturing the ink container in the second embodiment is the same as the method for manufacturing the ink container in the first embodiment, except that either the first region or the second region is formed in the ink container.

[0054] Furthermore, the other configurations and effects of this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0055] (Third embodiment) A third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7. This embodiment is a variation of the second embodiment described above.

[0056] Figures 6 and 7 are side views showing an ink container according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] In this embodiment shown in Figures 6 and 7, similar to the ink container of the second embodiment described above, either the first region 212 or the second region 214 of the ink container 100 is located in the ink storage section 200. The remaining portion of the ink storage section 200 becomes the main body region 216. In this embodiment, the first region 212 or the second region 214 of the ink storage section is formed from a resin derived from fossil fuels, and the remaining main body region 216 is formed from a material mainly containing a resin derived from biomass. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above in this respect.

[0058] The first example of the third embodiment is the ink container shown in Figure 6. In this example, the ink container 100 has an ink storage section 200 consisting of a main body region 216 and a second region 214. In this embodiment shown in Figure 6, there is no first region 212, and the ink storage section 200 is composed of the main body region 216 of the ink storage section from the first end 206. In the first example, it is preferable that the second region 214 is a region whose height is 50% or more of the overall height of the ink storage section 200 (height from the first end 206 to the second end 208). Furthermore, it is more preferable that the second region 214 is a region whose height is 50% or more and 90% or less of the overall height of the ink storage section 200. The shape and characteristics of the other regions in the first example are as described in the first embodiment. Although Figure 6 illustrates a form having a compatible portion 304, the ink container 100 of this disclosure is not limited to this form.

[0059] A second example of the third embodiment is the ink container 100 shown in Figure 7. In this example, the ink container 100 has an ink storage section 200 consisting of a main body region 216 and a first region 212. In this embodiment shown in Figure 7, there is no second region 214, and the ink storage section 200 is composed of the main body region 216 of the ink storage section, extending from the boundary of the first region 212 towards the second end. In the second example, it is preferable that the first region 212 is a region whose height is 50% or more of the overall height of the ink storage section 200 (height from the second end 208 to the boundary with the first region). It is even more preferable that the first region 212 is a region whose height is between 50% and 90% of the overall height of the ink storage section 200. The shapes and characteristics of the other regions in the second example are as described in the first embodiment. Although Figure 7 illustrates a configuration having a compatible portion 302, the ink container 100 of this disclosure is not limited to this configuration.

[0060] With the above configuration, the strength of either the first end or the second end of the ink container 100 can be improved. In addition, with the above configuration, the first or second region of the ink container 100 can be preferably 50% or more, more preferably 50% to 90% (majority) of the ink storage portion 200. As a result, a large portion of the ink storage portion 200 can be formed from resin derived from fossil fuels. As a result, the strength of the first or second region can be improved specifically compared to the first embodiment. Furthermore, with the above configuration, the possibility of damage to the ink container 100 due to impact from an accidental drop, blows from the side of the side region 210, etc. can be reduced.

[0061] The method for manufacturing the ink container in the third embodiment is the same as the method for manufacturing the ink container in the first embodiment, except that either the first region or the second region is formed in the ink container.

[0062] Furthermore, the other configurations and effects of this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0063] (Fourth embodiment) A fourth embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9.

[0064] Figures 8 and 9 are side views showing an ink container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, this embodiment provides constrictions 802 and 804 in the ink storage portion 200 of the ink storage container 100. In this embodiment, constrictions 802 and 804 are provided in the main body region 216 and at the boundary 806 of the first region or the boundary 808 of the second region. This embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0066] In the first example shown in Figure 8, the constrictions 802 and 804 are located near the boundaries 806 and 808 between the main body region and the first region 212 and the main body region 216 of the ink container 100. In particular, in the first example shown in Figure 8, parts of the constrictions 802 and 804 may be provided so as to extend further inside the first region 212 and the second region 214 than the boundaries 806 and 808. That is, in the embodiment shown in Figure 8, most of the constriction 802 is located inside the first region 212, and most of the constriction 804 is located inside the second region 214. Here, in the first example, "most of" means that 70% or more but less than 90% of the constrictions 802 and 804 are located inside the first region 212 or the second region 214, respectively. In this embodiment, most of the constrictions are located in the first or second region which is formed solely from fossil fuel-derived resin. In other words, the boundaries 806 and 808 between the first region 212 and the second region 214 and the main body region 216 are located on the second end side of the constriction 802 and the first end side of the constriction 804, respectively (Figure 8).

[0067] This configuration allows the ink storage section 216 to be cut and divided within the first or second region where the constrictions 802 and 804 are located. For example, by cutting and separating the first region at the center of the constriction 802 near the first end 206, the portion of the first region containing only fossil fuel-derived resin can be reliably separated from the ink storage section. Similarly, by cutting and separating the second region at the center of the constriction 804 near the second end 208, the portion of the second region containing only fossil fuel-derived resin can be reliably separated from the ink storage section. In this way, the ink storage container 100 can be divided into two types: the first and second regions consisting only of fossil fuel-derived resin, and the other regions containing both fossil fuel-derived resin and biomass-derived resin.

[0068] In this embodiment, the shape of the constriction is not particularly limited. Preferably, when viewed from the side of the ink container 100, the shape of the constriction can be a semicircle, semiellipse, triangular, rectangular, trapezoidal, or the like.

[0069] Next, a second example of the fourth embodiment will be described. In the second example, as shown in Figure 9, the constrictions 802 and 804 are provided near the boundaries 806 and 808 between the main body region and the first region 212 and the main body region 216 of the ink container 100. In particular, in the second example, unlike the first example shown in Figure 8, a portion of the constrictions 802 and 804 is provided so as to extend inward into the main body region 216 beyond the boundaries 806 and 808. That is, as shown in Figure 9, the majority of the constrictions 802 and 804 are located inside the main body region 216. Here, in the second example, "majority" means that the constrictions 802 and 804 are located on the side of the main body region 216 adjacent to the first region and the second region, respectively, at a rate of 70% or more but less than 90%. In this embodiment, the majority of the constrictions are located in the main body region 216, which is formed of a material containing biomass-derived resin. In other words, the boundaries 806 and 808 between the first region 212 and the second region 214 and the main body region 216 are located on the first end side of the constriction 802 and the second end side of the constriction 804, respectively (Figure 9).

[0070] This configuration allows the ink storage section 200 to be cut and divided within the main body region where the constrictions 802 and 804 are located. For example, by cutting and separating the main body region 216 at the center of the constriction 802 within the main body region, the portion of the main body region containing only biomass-derived resin can be reliably separated from the ink storage section. The same applies to the constriction 804 as to the constriction 802. In this way, the ink storage container 100 can be divided into two types: the main body region 216, which consists only of biomass-derived resin, and the first and second regions, which contain both fossil fuel-derived resin and biomass-derived resin.

[0071] In the second example of the fourth embodiment, the configuration, shape, features, etc., other than those described above, are as described in the first example.

[0072] In the description of the fourth embodiment above, the case in which the ink storage section has a first region, a second region, and a main body region as in the first embodiment was described. However, the constriction described in this embodiment can also be provided in the second and third embodiments. That is, the constriction is also applicable to ink storage sections having a first region or a second region and a main body region, as in the second and third embodiments. In these embodiments, the constriction in the form described above should be provided at the boundary between the first region and the main body portion, or at the boundary between the second region and the main body portion.

[0073] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ink container 100 may have a compatible portion, and at least one of the constrictions 802 and 804 may be the compatible portion. In addition, at least one of the resins derived from fossil fuels and the resin derived from biomass may be colored, and at least one of the constrictions 802 and 804 may be colored to distinguish it from other parts such as the ink container.

[0074] The method for manufacturing the ink container in the fourth embodiment is the same as the method for manufacturing the ink container in the first to third embodiments, except that a constriction is formed in the ink container portion at the boundary between either the first or second region and the main body region. Furthermore, the method for manufacturing the ink container in the fourth embodiment is the same as the method for manufacturing the ink container in the first to third embodiments, except that a constriction is formed in the ink container portion at the boundary between both the first and second regions and the main body region.

[0075] According to this embodiment, compared to the first embodiment, the ink container 100 can be clearly separated into parts composed of each resin alone and parts composed of a mixture of each resin, allowing for efficient recycling of the resin. Therefore, it can reduce the environmental burden and contribute to the realization of a sustainable society such as a decarbonized / circular economy. The other configurations and effects of this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0076] 100 ink containers 200 Ink storage compartment 202 Ink dispensing section 212 1st area 214 Second area 216 Body area

[0077] <<Other Embodiments>> The disclosures described in each of the above embodiments include configurations represented by the following example of a liquid dispensing head.

[0078] <Configuration 1> An ink container for supplying ink to an ink ejection device, The aforementioned ink container is An ink storage section for storing the aforementioned ink, An ink dispensing section for dispensing the ink contained in the ink storage section, It has, The aforementioned ink storage section is (a) Having a first region and a second region, and a main region sandwiched between the first region and the second region, (b) Having the first region and the main body region, or (c) Having the second region and the main body region, An ink container characterized in that the main body region contains a first resin derived from biomass, and the first and second regions consist of a second resin derived from fossil fuels.

[0079] <Configuration 2> The ink container according to configuration 1, wherein the content of the first resin is 10% by mass or more based on the total mass of the ink container.

[0080] <Structure 3> The ink storage container according to configuration 1 or configuration 2, wherein the ink storage portion has a first end on the side of the ink storage portion having the dispensing portion, a second end located on the opposite side of the first end, and a side region between the first end and the second end, the first region being a region extending from the first end towards the main body region within the side region, and the second region being a region extending from the second end towards the main body region within the side region.

[0081] <Structure 4> The ink storage container according to configurations 1 to 3, wherein the ink storage portion has a compatible portion in which the first resin of the first region and the second resin of the second region are mixed together.

[0082] <Composition 5> An ink container according to configurations 1 to 4, wherein the impact strength of the second resin is higher than that of the first resin.

[0083] <Composition 6> An ink container according to configurations 1 to 5, wherein either the first resin or the second resin is colored, or both the first resin and the second resin are colored in different colors.

[0084] <Composition 7> The ink storage section is composed of either the first region or the second region and the main body region. When the ink storage portion is composed of a first region and a main body region, the first region is a region whose height is 45% or less of the total height of the ink storage portion when measured from the first end. Ink containers as described in Components 1 to 6.

[0085] <Structure 8> The ink storage section is composed of either the first region or the second region and the main body region. When the ink storage portion is composed of the second region and the main body region, the second region is a region whose height is 45% or less of the total height of the ink storage portion when measured from the second end. Ink containers as described in Components 1 to 6.

[0086] <Composition 9> The ink storage portion has a first end on the side of the ink storage portion having the dispensing portion, a second end located on the opposite side of the first end, and a side region between the first end and the second end. The ink storage portion is composed of either the first region or the second region within the side region and the main body region within the side region. If the ink storage portion is composed of the first region and the main body region, the first region is a region whose height is 50% or more of the total height of the ink storage portion when measured from the first end. Ink containers as described in Components 1 to 6.

[0087] <Composition 10> The ink storage portion has a first end on the side of the ink storage portion having the dispensing portion, a second end located on the opposite side of the first end, and a side region between the first end and the second end. The ink storage portion is composed of either the first region or the second region within the side region and the main body region within the side region. If the ink storage portion is composed of the second region and the main body region, the second region is a region whose height is 50% or more of the total height of the ink storage portion when measured from the second end. Ink containers as described in Components 1 to 6.

[0088] <Composition 11> The ink storage container according to configurations 1 to 10, wherein the ink storage portion has a constriction at the boundary portion between the main body region and the first region, at the boundary portion between the main body region and the second region, or at the boundary portion between the main body region and both the first and second regions.

[0089] <Composition 12> A method for manufacturing an ink container having an ink storage section for storing ink and a dispensing section for dispensing the ink stored in the ink storage section, wherein the ink storage section has a main body region containing a first resin derived from biomass and at least one of a first region and a second region made of a second resin derived from fossil fuels, The aforementioned manufacturing method The process includes forming the ink storage section and the dispensing section, A method for manufacturing an ink container, characterized in that the formation of the ink storage portion includes forming the main body region and the first region, forming the main body region and the second region, or forming the main body region, the first region and the second region.

[0090] <Composition 13> A method for manufacturing an ink container according to configuration 12, wherein the ink storage portion is formed by a two-color molding method.

[0091] <Composition 14> A method for manufacturing an ink container according to configuration 12, wherein the ink storage portion is formed by welding.

Claims

1. An ink container for supplying ink to an ink ejection device, The aforementioned ink container is An ink storage section for storing the aforementioned ink, An ink dispensing section for dispensing the ink contained in the ink storage section, It has, The aforementioned ink storage section is (a) Having a first region and a second region, and a main body region sandwiched between the first region and the second region, (b) Having the first region and the main body region, or (c) Having the second region and the main body region, An ink container characterized in that the main body region contains a first resin derived from biomass, and the first region and the second region consist of a second resin derived from fossil fuels.

2. The ink container according to claim 1, wherein the content of the first resin is 10% by mass or more based on the total mass of the ink container.

3. The ink storage container according to claim 1, wherein the ink storage portion has a first end on the side of the ink storage portion having the dispensing portion, a second end located on the opposite side of the first end, and a side region between the first end and the second end, the first region being a region extending from the first end towards the main body region within the side region, and the second region being a region extending from the second end towards the main body region within the side region.

4. The ink storage container according to claim 1, wherein the ink storage portion has a compatible portion in which the first resin of the first region and the second resin of the second region are mixed together.

5. The ink container according to claim 1, wherein the impact strength of the second resin is higher than that of the first resin.

6. The ink container according to claim 1, wherein either the first resin or the second resin is colored, or both the first resin and the second resin are colored in different colors.

7. The ink storage section is composed of either the first region or the second region and the main body region. When the ink storage portion is composed of the first region and the main body region, the first region is a region whose height is 45% or less of the total height of the ink storage portion when measured from the first end. The ink container according to claim 1.

8. The ink storage section is composed of either the first region or the second region and the main body region. When the ink storage portion is composed of the second region and the main body region, the second region is a region whose height is 45% or less of the total height of the ink storage portion when measured from the second end. The ink container according to claim 1.

9. The ink storage portion has a first end on the side of the ink storage portion having the dispensing portion, a second end located on the opposite side of the first end, and a side region between the first end and the second end. The ink storage portion is composed of either the first region or the second region within the side region and the main body region within the side region. When the ink storage portion is composed of the first region and the main body region, the first region is a region whose height is 50% or more of the total height of the ink storage portion when measured from the first end. The ink container according to claim 1.

10. The ink storage portion has a first end on the side of the ink storage portion having the dispensing portion, a second end located on the opposite side of the first end, and a side region between the first end and the second end. The ink storage portion is composed of either the first region or the second region within the side region and the main body region within the side region. When the ink storage portion is composed of the second region and the main body region, the second region is a region whose height is 50% or more of the total height of the ink storage portion when measured from the second end. The ink container according to claim 1.

11. The ink storage container according to claim 1, wherein the ink storage portion has a constriction at the boundary portion between the main body region and the first region, at the boundary portion between the main body region and the second region, or at the boundary portion between the main body region and both the first region and the second region.

12. A method for manufacturing an ink container having an ink storage section for storing ink and a dispensing section for dispensing the ink stored in the ink storage section, wherein the ink storage section has a main body region containing a first resin derived from biomass and at least one of a first region and a second region made of a second resin derived from fossil fuels, The aforementioned manufacturing method The process includes forming the ink storage section and the dispensing section, A method for manufacturing an ink container, characterized in that the formation of the ink storage portion includes forming the main body region and the first region, forming the main body region and the second region, or forming the main body region, the first region and the second region.

13. The method for manufacturing an ink container according to claim 12, wherein the ink storage portion is formed by a two-color molding method.

14. The method for manufacturing an ink container according to claim 12, wherein the formation of the ink storage portion is carried out by welding.

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