Humidification unit and liquid dispensing device

Abstract

The present invention provides a humidifying unit and liquid dispensing device that can handle the humidification of both the first and second dispensing liquids with a single humidifying liquid. [Solution] The moisturizing unit 21 is a moisturizing unit that moisturizes the first discharge liquid or the second discharge liquid supplied to the discharge unit 13, and comprises a storage unit 22 for storing the moisturizing liquid and an adjustment unit 41 for adjusting the concentration of the moisturizing liquid stored in the storage unit. The adjustment unit has a liquid level sensor 48 for detecting that the liquid level of the moisturizing liquid stored in the storage unit is at a reference liquid level L1, and a supply mechanism 42 for supplying a replenishment liquid to the storage unit to replenish the moisture in the moisturizing liquid. The supply mechanism supplies a replenishment liquid to the storage unit to maintain the moisturizing liquid at the reference liquid level when the moisturizing liquid moisturizes the first discharge liquid, and supplies a replenishment liquid to the storage unit to maintain a greater volume of moisturizing liquid stored in the storage unit than when the moisturizing liquid moisturizes the first discharge liquid when the moisturizing liquid moisturizes the second discharge liquid.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a liquid ejection device including an ejection unit that ejects an ejection liquid and a moisturizing unit that moisturizes the ejection liquid. The moisturizing unit is configured to moisturize the ejection liquid with a moisturizing liquid. The moisturizing unit maintains the concentration of the moisturizing liquid by supplying a replenishing liquid for replenishing moisture to the moisturizing liquid in accordance with the evaporation of the moisturizing liquid.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the moisturizing unit described in Patent Document 1, when the ejection unit uses a first ejection liquid, it is necessary to fill the moisturizing unit with a moisturizing liquid having a concentration suitable for moisturizing the first ejection liquid. In the moisturizing unit, when the ejection unit uses a second ejection liquid different from the first ejection liquid, it is necessary to fill the moisturizing unit with a moisturizing liquid having a concentration suitable for moisturizing the second ejection liquid. Thus, it is difficult for the moisturizing unit to cope with moisturizing of the first ejection liquid and moisturizing of the second ejection liquid with a single moisturizing liquid.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A humidifying unit that solves the above problems is a humidifying unit that humidifies a first discharge liquid or a second discharge liquid supplied to a discharge unit, comprising: a storage unit for storing humidifying liquid; and an adjustment unit for adjusting the concentration of the humidifying liquid stored in the storage unit, wherein the adjustment unit has a liquid level sensor for detecting that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid stored in the storage unit is at a reference liquid level; and a supply mechanism for supplying a replenishment liquid to the storage unit to replenish moisture in the humidifying liquid, wherein when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid, the supply mechanism supplies a replenishment liquid to the storage unit to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at the reference liquid level, and supplies a replenishment liquid to the storage unit to maintain the humidifying liquid at a second liquid volume greater than the first liquid volume.

[0006] A liquid dispensing device that solves the above problems comprises the above-mentioned humidifying unit and the dispensing unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a liquid dispensing device equipped with a humidifying unit. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows the process of filling the reservoir with moisturizing liquid. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a first embodiment of the moisturizing unit. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a second embodiment of the moisturizing unit. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows a third embodiment of the moisturizing unit. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows a fourth embodiment of the moisturizing unit. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the filling state of the fifth embodiment of the moisturizing unit. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the usage state of the fifth embodiment of the moisturizing unit. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the filling state of the sixth embodiment of the moisturizing unit. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows the usage state of the sixth embodiment of the moisturizing unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The following describes an embodiment of a liquid ejection device with reference to the figures. A liquid ejection device is an inkjet printer that records images such as characters and photographs by ejecting ink, which is an example of an ejection liquid, onto a medium such as paper, fabric, or film.

[0009] <Common Configuration> This specification describes several embodiments of a liquid dispensing device equipped with a humidifying unit. Therefore, we will first describe the configuration common to all of the embodiments.

[0010] As shown in Figure 1, the liquid ejection device 11 is configured to receive ejection liquid from a liquid container 12. The ejection liquid is the liquid used by the liquid ejection device 11 for printing. In one example, the liquid container 12 is an ink cartridge. In this case, the liquid ejection device 11 is configured to accommodate the liquid container 12. The liquid container 12 may also be an ink tank. In this case, the liquid ejection device 11 may include the liquid container 12.

[0011] The liquid container 12 is configured to contain the discharged liquid. More specifically, the liquid container 12 is configured to contain either the first discharged liquid or the second discharged liquid. The first discharged liquid and the second discharged liquid are liquids of different types. The first discharged liquid and the second discharged liquid are, for example, inks of different colors. The first discharged liquid and the second discharged liquid each contain a printing material and a solvent. The printing material may be a pigment or a dye. The solvent is, for example, water.

[0012] In the liquid dispensing device 11, it may be determined at the time of shipment whether it is a model that uses a first dispensing liquid or a model that uses a second dispensing liquid. In the liquid dispensing device 11, it may be determined by the user at the time of use whether to use a first dispensing liquid or a second dispensing liquid. For example, in the liquid dispensing device 11, it may be determined at the time of shipment whether it is a model that is equipped with a liquid container 12 that contains a first dispensing liquid or a model that is equipped with a liquid container 12 that contains a second dispensing liquid. In the liquid dispensing device 11, for example, it may be determined by the user at the time of use whether to install a liquid container 12 that contains a first dispensing liquid or a liquid container 12 that contains a second dispensing liquid. Therefore, the liquid dispensing device 11 is manufactured to be usable with both the first and second dispensing liquids.

[0013] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a dispensing section 13. The dispensing section 13 is configured to dispense liquid. More specifically, the dispensing section 13 is configured to dispense either a first dispensing liquid or a second dispensing liquid. The dispensing section 13 is configured to be supplied with dispensing liquid from a liquid container 12. The dispensing section 13 is configured to be supplied with either a first dispensing liquid or a second dispensing liquid from a liquid container 12.

[0014] The dispensing unit 13 has a nozzle surface 15 through which one or more nozzles 14 open. The dispensing unit 13 is configured to dispense liquid from the nozzles 14. The dispensing unit 13 prints an image on the medium by dispensing the liquid onto the medium. The dispensing unit 13 may be a serial head that scans the medium, or it may be a line head that can dispense liquid simultaneously across the width of the medium.

[0015] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a supply unit 16. The supply unit 16 is configured to supply dispensing liquid from the liquid container 12 to the dispensing unit 13. The supply unit 16 includes, for example, a supply channel 17 that connects the liquid container 12 and the dispensing unit 13. Liquid is supplied from the liquid container 12 to the dispensing unit 13 through the supply channel 17. In addition to the supply channel 17, the supply unit 16 may also include a supply pump that sends liquid from the liquid container 12 to the dispensing unit 13.

[0016] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a moisture retention unit 21. The moisture retention unit 21 is configured to retain moisture in the ejected liquid. In the ejected liquid, evaporation may occur over time. Specifically, moisture may evaporate from the ejected liquid over time. For example, moisture may evaporate from the ejected liquid through the nozzle 14 or in the supply channel 17. When moisture evaporates from the ejected liquid, the concentration of the ejected liquid increases. When the concentration of the ejected liquid increases, the viscosity of the ejected liquid increases. When the viscosity of the ejected liquid increases, it may affect the ejection performance of the ejection unit 13. Therefore, the moisture retention unit 21 suppresses the evaporation of the ejected liquid by retaining moisture in the ejected liquid.

[0017] The moisture retention unit 21 includes a storage unit 22. The storage unit 22 is configured to store a moisture retention liquid. The storage unit 22 is, for example, a tank that stores the moisture retention liquid. The moisture retention liquid is a liquid that retains moisture in the ejected liquid. The moisture retention liquid includes, for example, glycerin and water. The moisture retention liquid retains moisture in the ejected liquid by releasing moisture.

[0018] The moisture retention unit 21 may be configured to retain moisture in the ejected liquid in the supply unit 16. The moisture retention unit 21 may be configured to retain moisture in the ejected liquid in the supply unit 16 by contacting the supply unit 16. For example, the moisture retention unit 21 may be configured such that the storage unit 22 contacts the supply channel 17 through a moisture permeable membrane. The moisture permeable membrane is a membrane that allows gas to permeate while preventing liquid from permeating. In this case, evaporation of moisture from the ejected liquid is suppressed as the moisture of the moisture retention liquid passes through the moisture permeable membrane as vapor.

[0019] The moisturizing unit 21 may be configured to moisturize the discharged liquid in the discharge section 13. The moisturizing unit 21 may include, for example, a cap 23. The cap 23 is configured to moisturize the discharge section 13. The cap 23 is configured to contact the discharge section 13. The cap 23 moisturizes the discharge section 13 by contacting the discharge section 13. Specifically, the cap 23 contacts the discharge section 13 so as to cover the nozzle 14. In one example, the cap 23 contacts the nozzle surface 15 so as to cover the nozzle 14. This allows the cap 23 to moisturize the discharge section 13.

[0020] The cap 23 and the ejector unit 13 are configured to move closer to and further away from each other. In one example, the cap 23 is configured to move relative to the ejector unit 13. The ejector unit 13 may be configured to move relative to the cap 23. The cap 23 and the ejector unit 13 may be configured to move independently. The cap 23 approaches the ejector unit 13 when the ejector unit 13 is in a standby state. By approaching the ejector unit 13, the cap 23 makes contact with the ejector unit 13. That is, the cap 23 moistens the ejector unit 13 when the ejector unit 13 is in a standby state. The standby state is a state in which printing is pending.

[0021] The cap 23 may be configured to receive the discharged liquid discharged from the discharge section 13. The cap 23 may be configured to receive the discharged liquid discharged from the discharge section 13 in conjunction with flushing, cleaning, etc. Flushing is an operation to appropriately discharge the discharged liquid from the nozzle 14 in order to prevent clogging of the nozzle 14. Cleaning is an operation to forcibly discharge the discharged liquid from the nozzle 14 in order to remove foreign matter from inside the discharge section 13.

[0022] The cap 23 has a cap member 24. The cap member 24 is a member that contacts the discharge portion 13. The cap member 24 is a member that contacts the nozzle surface 15. The cap member 24 is configured to define a cap space C1. The cap space C1 is the space within the cap member 24.

[0023] The cap 23 may have a partition membrane 25. The partition membrane 25 is attached to the cap member 24. The partition membrane 25 is located inside the cap member 24. The partition membrane 25 is positioned to divide the cap space C1 into a first space C2 and a second space C3. The first space C2 is a space that moistens the discharge section 13. The first space C2 is a space that connects to the nozzle 14. The discharge section 13 is moistened by filling the first space C2 with moisture. The first space C2 may also be a space that receives the liquid discharged from the discharge section 13. The second space C3 is a space to which moisture is supplied from the moisturizing liquid. The second space C3 may be a space to which the moisturizing liquid is supplied. The second space C3 may be a space to which the moisturizing liquid is stored, or a space through which the moisturizing liquid passes. The second space C3 is filled with moisture by the supply of moisture from the moisturizing liquid.

[0024] The partition membrane 25 is composed of a moisture-permeable membrane. Therefore, the partition membrane 25 allows vapor to move between the first space C2 and the second space C3. In other words, moisture can move between the first space C2 and the second space C3 through the partition membrane 25. When moisture is supplied to the second space C3 from the humidifying liquid, moisture is supplied from the second space C3 to the first space C2 through the partition membrane 25. As a result, when the first space C2 is filled with moisture, the discharge section 13 is humidified.

[0025] The partition membrane 25 prevents the movement of liquid between the first space C2 and the second space C3. Specifically, the partition membrane 25 prevents the discharge liquid from moving from the first space C2 to the second space C3, and prevents the humidifying liquid from moving from the second space C3 to the first space C2. The partition membrane 25 reduces the risk of the discharge liquid and the humidifying liquid mixing within the cap member 24.

[0026] The cap 23 may have an absorbent 26. The absorbent 26 is located inside the cap member 24. The absorbent 26 is located in the first space C2. The absorbent 26 is configured to absorb the discharged liquid. The absorbent 26 is configured to receive the liquid discharged from the discharge section 13. By the absorbent 26 absorbing the discharged liquid, the risk of the partition membrane 25 being blocked by the discharged liquid is reduced.

[0027] The humidifying unit 21 may be configured to draw in the discharged liquid from the first space C2. In this case, the humidifying unit 21 can discharge the discharged liquid that accumulates in the first space C2 from the cap 23.

[0028] The humidifying unit 21 may include a connecting channel 27. The connecting channel 27 is a channel connected to the storage unit 22. The connecting channel 27 is a channel connected to the cap 23. The connecting channel 27 is a channel connecting the storage unit 22 and the cap 23. Moisture is supplied from the storage unit 22 to the cap 23 through the connecting channel 27. Moisture evaporated from the humidifying liquid may be supplied from the storage unit 22 to the cap 23 through the connecting channel 27. The humidifying liquid may be supplied from the storage unit 22 to the cap 23 through the connecting channel 27. In one example, the connecting channel 27 is a channel through which the humidifying liquid flows.

[0029] The connecting channel 27 may have a supply section 28. The supply section 28 is the portion of the connecting channel 27 through which the humidifying liquid flows from the storage section 22 to the cap 23. The humidifying liquid is supplied from the storage section 22 to the cap 23 through the supply section 28.

[0030] The connecting channel 27 may have a recovery section 29. The recovery section 29 is the portion of the connecting channel 27 through which the humectant liquid flows from the cap 23 towards the storage section 22. The humectant liquid is returned from the cap 23 to the storage section 22 through the recovery section 29.

[0031] The humidifying unit 21 circulates the humidifying liquid between the storage section 22 and the cap 23 via the supply section 28 and the recovery section 29. The circulation of the humidifying liquid between the storage section 22 and the cap 23 makes it easier for the inside of the cap 23 to be filled with moisture. Furthermore, the circulation of the humidifying liquid reduces the risk of uneven concentration of the humidifying liquid.

[0032] The humidifying unit 21 may include a fluid pump 30. The fluid pump 30 is located in the connecting channel 27. The fluid pump 30 is a pump that fluidizes the humidifying liquid in the connecting channel 27. In one example, the fluid pump 30 is located in the supply section 28. The fluid pump 30 fluidizes the humidifying liquid in the supply section 28 so as to send the humidifying liquid from the storage section 22 to the cap 23. By sending the humidifying liquid from the storage section 22 to the cap 23 through the supply section 28, the fluid pump 30 returns the humidifying liquid from the cap 23 to the storage section 22 through the recovery section 29. That is, the fluid pump 30 circulates the humidifying liquid in the connecting channel 27 by being driven. The fluid pump 30 may be located in the recovery section 29.

[0033] The humidifying unit 21 may have one or more check valves. In one example, the humidifying unit 21 has two check valves. Specifically, the humidifying unit 21 has a first check valve 31 and a second check valve 32. A check valve is a valve that restricts the flow of liquid in one direction. The check valve is located in the connecting passage 27. The check valve restricts the flow of liquid in the connecting passage 27 in one direction. The first check valve 31 is located in the supply section 28. Specifically, the first check valve 31 is located in the supply section 28 between the fluid pump 30 and the storage section 22. The first check valve 31 restricts the flow of liquid in the supply section 28 so that liquid flows from the storage section 22 toward the cap 23. That is, the first check valve 31 prevents liquid from flowing from the cap 23 toward the storage section 22 in the supply section 28. The second check valve 32 is located in the recovery section 29. The second check valve 32 restricts the flow of liquid in the recovery section 29 so that liquid flows from the cap 23 towards the storage section 22. In other words, the second check valve 32 suppresses the flow of liquid from the storage section 22 towards the cap 23 in the recovery section 29.

[0034] The humectant evaporates as it humidifies the dispensed liquid. The humectant evaporates by releasing water. When the humectant evaporates, its water content decreases. When the water content of the humectant evaporates, its concentration increases. When the concentration of the humectant evaporative evaporative evaporates, there is a risk that it will no longer be able to humidify the dispensed liquid.

[0035] When moisturizing the discharged liquid with a moisturizing solution, the concentration of the moisturizing solution is crucial. More specifically, the ratio of the moisturizing solution concentration to the discharged liquid concentration is important. If the concentration of the moisturizing solution is higher than normal relative to the discharged liquid concentration, water will easily move from the discharged liquid to the moisturizing solution. When water moves from the discharged liquid to the moisturizing solution, the water content of the discharged liquid may become too low. In other words, the evaporation of the discharged liquid may be accelerated. On the other hand, if the concentration of the moisturizing solution is lower than normal relative to the discharged liquid concentration, water will easily move from the moisturizing solution to the discharged liquid. When water moves from the moisturizing solution to the discharged liquid, the water content of the discharged liquid may become too high. In this case as well, it may affect the discharge performance of the discharge unit 13 and the print quality.

[0036] In the humidifying unit 21, it is crucial to control the concentration of the humidifying solution. More specifically, in the humidifying unit 21, it is crucial to adjust the concentration of the humidifying solution to match the discharged liquid. For example, in the humidifying unit 21, it is crucial to adjust the concentration of the humidifying solution so that the humidifying capacity of the discharged liquid and the humidifying solution are balanced. For example, in the humidifying unit 21, it is crucial to adjust the concentration of the humidifying solution so that the vapor pressure of the discharged liquid and the vapor pressure of the humidifying solution are balanced. By doing so, the discharged liquid is properly humidified.

[0037] The humidifying unit 21 includes an adjustment unit 41. The adjustment unit 41 is configured to adjust the concentration of the humidifying liquid. The adjustment unit 41 adjusts the concentration of the humidifying liquid stored in the storage unit 22. The adjustment unit 41 adjusts the concentration of the humidifying liquid to match the discharge liquid being used. The adjustment unit 41 maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid to match the discharge liquid being used. Specifically, the adjustment unit 41 maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid by supplying water to the humidifying liquid.

[0038] The adjustment unit 41 has a supply mechanism 42. The supply mechanism 42 is configured to supply water to the humectant liquid. More specifically, the supply mechanism 42 is configured to supply a replenishment liquid to the humectant liquid. The supply mechanism 42 supplies the replenishment liquid to the humectant liquid by supplying the replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22. The replenishment liquid is a liquid used to replenish water in the humectant liquid. The replenishment liquid is a liquid containing the solvent of the humectant liquid. In one example, the replenishment liquid is water.

[0039] The supply mechanism 42 has a replenishment tank 43. The replenishment tank 43 is configured to store replenishment liquid. The replenishment tank 43 is connected to the storage unit 22. The supply mechanism 42 is configured to supply replenishment liquid from the replenishment tank 43 to the storage unit 22.

[0040] The supply mechanism 42 has a replenishment channel 44. The replenishment channel 44 is connected to the replenishment tank 43. The replenishment channel 44 is connected to the storage unit 22. The replenishment channel 44 connects the replenishment tank 43 and the storage unit 22. The replenishment channel 44 is a channel through which the replenishment liquid flows. The replenishment liquid flows from the replenishment tank 43 to the storage unit 22 through the replenishment channel 44.

[0041] The replenishment channel 44 may be configured to share a portion with the connecting channel 27. For example, the replenishment channel 44 may extend to merge with the connecting channel 27. In one example, the replenishment channel 44 extends to merge with the supply section 28. The replenishment channel 44 is configured to include a portion of the connecting channel 27 and the cap 23. The replenishment liquid is supplied to the storage section 22 by passing through the supply section 28, the cap 23, and the recovery section 29 in that order in the replenishment channel 44. The replenishment channel 44 may be a separate, independent channel from the connecting channel 27.

[0042] The supply mechanism 42 may have an on-off valve 45. The on-off valve 45 is located in the replenishment passage 44. The on-off valve 45 is configured to open and close the replenishment passage 44. When the on-off valve 45 is open, replenishment liquid can be supplied from the replenishment tank 43 to the storage section 22 through the replenishment passage 44. The on-off valve 45 is located in the replenishment passage 44. In one example, the on-off valve 45 is located in the portion of the replenishment passage 44 that is not shared with the connecting passage 27. That is, the on-off valve 45 is located in the replenishment passage 44 between the junction with the supply section 28 and the replenishment tank 43.

[0043] The supply mechanism 42 may have a one-way valve 46. The one-way valve 46 is a valve that restricts the flow of liquid in one direction, similar to a check valve. The one-way valve 46 is located in the replenishment passage 44. In one example, the one-way valve 46 is located in the replenishment passage 44 between the replenishment tank 43 and the on-off valve 45. The one-way valve 46 restricts the flow of liquid in the replenishment passage 44 in one direction. The one-way valve 46 restricts the flow of liquid in the replenishment passage 44 so that liquid flows from the replenishment tank 43 toward the storage section 22. That is, the one-way valve 46 suppresses the flow of liquid from the storage section 22 toward the replenishment tank 43 in the replenishment passage 44. In one example, the one-way valve 46 also suppresses the flow of liquid from the cap 23 toward the replenishment tank 43 in the replenishment passage 44.

[0044] The supply mechanism 42 may have a replenishment pump 47. The replenishment pump 47 is a pump that supplies replenishment liquid from the replenishment tank 43 to the storage section 22. The replenishment pump 47 is located in the replenishment passage 44. The replenishment pump 47 may be a pump shared with the fluid pump 30. In one example, the replenishment pump 47 is also operated by the fluid pump 30. Therefore, the replenishment pump 47, which is also operated by the fluid pump 30, is located in the shared section between the replenishment passage 44 and the connecting passage 27. More specifically, the replenishment pump 47 is located in the replenishment passage 44 between the junction with the connecting passage 27 and the cap 23.

[0045] The adjustment unit 41 has a liquid level sensor 48. The liquid level sensor 48 is configured to detect the liquid level of the humectant liquid stored in the storage unit 22. More specifically, the liquid level sensor 48 is configured to detect that the liquid level of the humectant liquid is at the reference liquid level L1. The reference liquid level L1 is a reference liquid level for the amount of humectant liquid stored in the storage unit 22. The reference liquid level L1 is a reference liquid level when adjusting the concentration of the humectant liquid.

[0046] The liquid level sensor 48 may have one or more electrodes. For example, the liquid level sensor 48 has a reference electrode 49 and a liquid level electrode 50. The reference electrode 49 and the liquid level electrode 50 are attached to the storage section 22. The reference electrode 49 and the liquid level electrode 50 extend from the ceiling of the storage section 22 toward the bottom of the storage section 22. The reference electrode 49 is a longer electrode than the liquid level electrode 50. Therefore, the distance between the tip of the reference electrode 49 and the bottom of the storage section 22 is smaller than the distance between the tip of the liquid level electrode 50 and the bottom of the storage section 22. The liquid level electrode 50 is an electrode that determines the reference liquid level L1. The tip position of the liquid level electrode 50 coincides with the reference liquid level L1. The liquid level electrode 50 detects the humidifying liquid by contacting the humidifying liquid. That is, the liquid level electrode 50 detects the reference liquid level L1 by contacting the humidifying liquid.

[0047] The liquid level sensor 48 detects the liquid level of the humidifying liquid based on the conductivity of the reference electrode 49 and the liquid level electrode 50. More specifically, the liquid level sensor 48 detects that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid is at the reference liquid level L1 based on the conductivity of the reference electrode 49 and the liquid level electrode 50. When the liquid level of the humidifying liquid is at or above the reference liquid level L1, both the reference electrode 49 and the liquid level electrode 50 are in contact with the humidifying liquid. In this case, the reference electrode 49 and the liquid level electrode 50 are electrically conductive. When the liquid level of the humidifying liquid is below the reference liquid level L1, the liquid level electrode 50 is not in contact with the humidifying liquid. In this case, the reference electrode 49 and the liquid level electrode 50 are not electrically conductive. In other words, the liquid level sensor 48 detects that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid is at the reference liquid level L1 when the reference electrode 49 and the liquid level electrode 50 change from a non-conductive state to a conductive state. The liquid level sensor 48 detects that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid is at the reference liquid level L1, thereby detecting that the liquid volume of the humidifying liquid is the first liquid volume.

[0048] The liquid level sensor 48 is not limited to detecting the liquid level by conductivity between electrodes; it may also detect the liquid level by measuring the distance to the liquid surface using, for example, a laser. The liquid level sensor 48 may also be configured to detect the liquid level by, for example, time of flight.

[0049] The humidifying unit 21 may include a control unit 51. The control unit 51 is configured to control the humidifying unit 21. The control unit 51 is configured to control the adjustment unit 41. The control unit 51 may be configured to control the supply mechanism 42 and the liquid level sensor 48. In addition to the humidifying unit 21, the control unit 51 may be configured to control the discharge unit 13, the supply unit 16, etc. The control unit 51 may be configured to control the liquid discharge device 11.

[0050] The control unit 51 may consist of one or more processors that perform various processes according to a computer program. The control unit 51 may consist of one or more dedicated hardware circuits, such as ASICs, that perform at least some of the various processes. The control unit 51 may consist of a circuit that includes a combination of processors and hardware circuits. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM. The memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to perform processes. The memory, i.e., computer-readable media, includes any readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0051] The control unit 51 adjusts the concentration of the humidifying liquid by controlling the adjustment unit 41. The control unit 51 adjusts the concentration of the humidifying liquid by controlling the supply mechanism 42 based on the detection result of the liquid level sensor 48. The control unit 51 maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid by supplying replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 to maintain the liquid level of the humidifying liquid based on the detection result of the liquid level sensor 48. Specifically, the control unit 51 controls the adjustment unit 41 so that the humidifying liquid reaches a predetermined liquid volume based on the reference liquid level L1. The control unit 51 supplies replenishment liquid to the humidifying liquid so that the humidifying liquid reaches a predetermined liquid volume based on the reference liquid level L1 by controlling the adjustment unit 41. For example, the control unit 51 supplies replenishment liquid to the humidifying liquid to replenish the water evaporated from the humidifying liquid. By maintaining a constant liquid volume of the humidifying liquid stored in the storage unit 22, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a constant level.

[0052] The control unit 51 may fill the storage unit 22 with humidifying liquid by controlling the adjustment unit 41. Filling with humidifying liquid is performed before the liquid dispensing device 11 is shipped, before the liquid dispensing device 11 is used, etc. The program for filling with humidifying liquid may be stored in the memory of the control unit 51. Filling with humidifying liquid may also be performed by controlling the adjustment unit 41 with an external controller.

[0053] As shown in Figure 2, when filling with humidifying solution, a humidifying solution container 52 is installed in the replenishment channel 44. More specifically, in the humidifying unit 21, the humidifying solution container 52 is connected to the replenishment channel 44 in place of the replenishment tank 43. The humidifying solution container 52 is configured to contain humidifying solution. The humidifying solution container 52 contains humidifying solution of a predetermined concentration. The humidifying solution container 52 may contain humidifying solution of a concentration matched to the first discharged solution, or it may contain humidifying solution of a concentration matched to the second discharged solution. The humidifying solution container 52 may be a tank, a pack, or a cartridge.

[0054] The control unit 51 opens the on-off valve 45 when filling with the humidifying liquid. With the on-off valve 45 open, the control unit 51 drives the replenishment pump 47. This supplies the humidifying liquid from the humidifying liquid container 52 to the storage unit 22.

[0055] The control unit 51 fills the storage unit 22 with a predetermined amount of humidifying liquid based on the detection result of the liquid level sensor 48. For example, the control unit 51 fills the storage unit 22 with humidifying liquid until the liquid level of the humidifying liquid reaches the reference liquid level L1. In this case, the control unit 51 drives the replenishment pump 47 until the liquid level sensor 48 detects that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid is at the reference liquid level L1. When the liquid level sensor 48 detects the reference liquid level L1, the control unit 51 closes the on / off valve 45 and stops the replenishment pump 47. As a result, when filling the humidifying liquid, the humidifying liquid is stored in the storage unit 22 at the reference liquid level L1. That is, when filling the humidifying liquid, the humidifying liquid is stored in the storage unit 22 at a first liquid volume. When using the humidifying liquid, the control unit 51 maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid at the same level as when it was filled by supplying replenishment liquid to maintain the humidifying liquid at the reference liquid level L1. In other words, when using the humectant solution, the control unit 51 maintains the concentration of the humectant solution at the same level as when it was filled by supplying a replenishment solution to maintain the humectant solution at the first liquid volume.

[0056] The control unit 51 may fill the humidifying solution so that the volume of the humidifying solution is greater than the volume at the reference liquid level L1. For example, the control unit 51 may fill the humidifying solution so that the liquid level of the humidifying solution is higher than the reference liquid level L1. After the liquid level sensor 48 detects that the liquid level of the humidifying solution is at the reference liquid level L1, the control unit 51 may further drive the replenishment pump 47 to fill the humidifying solution so that the volume of the humidifying solution is greater than the volume at the reference liquid level L1. That is, after the liquid level sensor 48 detects that the volume of the humidifying solution is a first volume, the control unit 51 may further drive the replenishment pump 47 to fill the humidifying solution so that the volume of the humidifying solution is greater than the volume at the reference liquid level L1. When using the humidifying solution, the control unit 51 may maintain the concentration of the humidifying solution at the level at the time of filling by supplying replenishment solution in such a way that the volume of the humidifying solution is greater than the volume at the reference liquid level L1. In other words, when using the humectant solution, the control unit 51 may maintain the concentration of the humectant solution at the same level as when it was filled by supplying a replenishment solution to maintain the humectant solution at a second volume greater than the first volume.

[0057] The control unit 51 may be configured to acquire the type of liquid to be dispensed. The control unit 51 may be configured to acquire whether the liquid to be dispensed is the first liquid or the second liquid. The control unit 51 may acquire the type of liquid to be dispensed from, for example, a liquid container 12 attached to the liquid dispensing device 11. The liquid container 12 usually has an electronic circuit board attached to it that records information about the liquid to be dispensed. The control unit 51 may acquire the type of liquid to be dispensed from this electronic circuit board. The control unit 51 may acquire the type of liquid to be dispensed from, for example, the user. The control unit 51 may acquire the type of liquid to be dispensed from the user, for example, by having the user operate a touch panel provided on the liquid dispensing device 11.

[0058] The optimal concentration of the humectant for the first and second discharged liquids differs for each. For example, the optimal concentration of the humectant for the first discharged liquid is higher than that for the second discharged liquid. When the liquid dispensing device 11 uses the first discharged liquid, it is necessary to use a humectant with an appropriate concentration for humidifying the first discharged liquid. When the liquid dispensing device 11 uses the second discharged liquid, it is necessary to use a humectant with an appropriate concentration for humidifying the second discharged liquid. However, it is cumbersome to prepare both a humectant with an appropriate concentration for humidifying the first discharged liquid and a humectant with an appropriate concentration for humidifying the second discharged liquid. For example, it is cumbersome to prepare a humectant container 52 to hold a humectant with an appropriate concentration for humidifying the first discharged liquid, and to prepare a humectant container 52 to hold a humectant with an appropriate concentration for humidifying the second discharged liquid. Furthermore, when switching between the first and second discharged liquids, it is cumbersome to refill the storage unit 22 with a humidifying solution at a concentration suitable for the first discharged liquid and a humidifying solution at a concentration suitable for the second discharged liquid.

[0059] The adjustment unit 41 is configured to adjust the concentration of the humectant solution to a concentration suitable for humecting the first discharged liquid and a concentration suitable for humecting the second discharged liquid. The adjustment unit 41 is configured to maintain the humectant solution at a concentration suitable for humecting the first discharged liquid, or to maintain the humectant solution at a concentration suitable for humecting the second discharged liquid. The adjustment unit 41 may be configured to maintain the humectant solution at a concentration suitable for humecting the first discharged liquid at that concentration, or to adjust it to a concentration suitable for humecting the second discharged liquid. The adjustment unit 41 may be configured to maintain the humectant solution at a concentration suitable for humecting the second discharged liquid at that concentration, or to adjust it to a concentration suitable for humecting the first discharged liquid. In this way, the adjustment unit 41 adjusts the concentration of the humectant solution so that a single humectant solution can handle the humecting of both the first and second discharged liquids.

[0060] The adjustment unit 41 adjusts the concentration of the moisturizing liquid by adjusting the amount of moisturizing liquid stored in the storage unit 22 in accordance with the discharged moisturizing liquid. The adjustment unit 41 also adjusts the amount of moisturizing liquid by controlling the supply of replenishment liquid. For example, the adjustment unit 41 lowers the concentration of the moisturizing liquid by supplying replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so that the amount of moisturizing liquid increases. For example, the adjustment unit 41 raises the concentration of the moisturizing liquid by supplying replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so that the amount of moisturizing liquid decreases. In this way, the adjustment unit 41 adjusts the concentration of the moisturizing liquid by supplying replenishment liquid to maintain the amount of liquid at the time of replenishment, or by supplying replenishment liquid to maintain a different amount of liquid than the amount at the time of replenishment.

[0061] The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at the reference liquid level L1 when the humidifying liquid is humidifying the first discharged liquid. Maintaining the humidifying liquid at the reference liquid level L1 maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid. For example, if the reference liquid level L1 is the liquid level at the time of filling, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at the level at the time of filling. As a result, the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid.

[0062] The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at a standard liquid level L1 when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. The first liquid volume is the liquid volume when the storage unit 22 is at the standard liquid level L1. By maintaining the humidifying liquid at the first liquid volume, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained. For example, if the first liquid volume is the liquid volume at the time of filling, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at the state at the time of filling. As a result, the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid.

[0063] The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so that when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid, the amount of humidifying liquid stored in the storage unit 22 is greater than when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. By maintaining a greater amount of humidifying liquid stored in the storage unit 22 than when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid, the humidifying liquid is maintained at a lower concentration than when it humidifies the first discharged liquid. For example, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a lower level than at the time of filling. As a result, the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid.

[0064] The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at a second volume greater than the first volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid. By maintaining the humidifying liquid at a second volume greater than the first volume, the humidifying liquid is maintained at a lower concentration than when it humidifies the first discharged liquid. For example, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a lower level than at the time of filling. As a result, the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid.

[0065] The supply mechanism 42 adjusts the concentration of the humidifying liquid by supplying replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume or a second liquid volume. As a result, the humidifying unit 21 can handle the humidification of both the first and second discharged liquids with a single humidifying liquid.

[0066] The following describes various embodiments of the humidifying unit 21 that adjusts the humidifying solution to a concentration suitable for humidifying the first discharged solution and a concentration suitable for humidifying the second discharged solution. In each embodiment, the specific configuration and method for supplying replenishment solution to adjust the concentration of the humidifying solution will be described.

[0067] <First Example> First, a first embodiment of the humidifying unit 21 will be described. In the first embodiment, a humidifying liquid of a concentration suitable for humidifying the first discharge liquid is filled into the storage section 22.

[0068] As shown in Figure 3, the adjustment unit 41 includes a lifting mechanism 53. The lifting mechanism 53 is configured to raise and lower the liquid level electrode 50. The lifting mechanism 53 may include a slider, a ball screw, etc., to which the liquid level electrode 50 is attached. The lifting mechanism 53 may be configured to automatically displace the liquid level electrode 50 by the drive of a motor, or it may be configured to manually displace the liquid level electrode 50. The lifting mechanism 53 may have a scale 53a indicating the height of the liquid level electrode 50.

[0069] The lifting mechanism 53 raises and lowers the liquid level electrode 50 so that it is displaced between a first position P1 and a second position P2. The lifting mechanism 53 displaces the liquid level electrode 50 from the first position P1 to the second position P2 by raising the liquid level electrode 50. The lifting mechanism 53 displaces the liquid level electrode 50 from the second position P2 to the first position P1 by lowering the liquid level electrode 50.

[0070] The lifting mechanism 53 positions the liquid level electrode 50 at the first position P1 when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid. The lifting mechanism 53 positions the liquid level electrode 50 at the second position P2 when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid.

[0071] The first position P1 is the position that determines the reference liquid level L1. The first position P1 is the position where the humidifying solution is detected to be at the reference liquid level L1. The liquid level sensor 48 detects that the humidifying solution is at the reference liquid level L1 when the liquid level electrode 50 is located at the first position P1. The first position P1 is the position where the liquid level electrode 50 detects that the humidifying solution is at the first liquid volume. The liquid level sensor 48 detects that the humidifying solution is at the first liquid volume when the liquid level electrode 50 is located at the first position P1.

[0072] The second position P2 is a position above the first position P1. The second position P2 is the position where the liquid level sensor 48 detects that the humidifying solution is at a level higher than the reference liquid level L1. When the liquid level electrode 50 is at the second position P2, the liquid level sensor 48 detects that the humidifying solution is at a higher volume than when it is at the reference liquid level L1. The second position P2 is the position where the liquid level electrode 50 detects that the humidifying solution is at a second volume. When the liquid level electrode 50 is at the second position P2, the liquid level sensor 48 detects that it is at a second volume.

[0073] The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the state in which the liquid level electrode 50 located at the first position P1 detects the humidifying liquid when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. In other words, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at the reference liquid level L1 when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the first liquid volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. This maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid at the state it was at when it was filled.

[0074] The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the state in which the liquid level electrode 50 located at the second position P2 detects the humidifying liquid when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid. In other words, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at a higher volume than when the humidifying liquid is maintained at the reference liquid level L1 when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid. The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the second liquid volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid. As a result, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a lower level than when it was filled.

[0075] The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 in such a way that the liquid level electrode 50 maintains a state in which it detects the humidifying liquid. That is, when the liquid level of the humidifying liquid falls below the liquid level electrode 50, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid so that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid reaches the liquid level electrode 50. The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 each time the liquid level electrode 50 stops detecting the humidifying liquid until the liquid level electrode 50 detects the humidifying liquid again. Therefore, by displacing the liquid level electrode 50, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is adjusted according to the position of the liquid level electrode 50. In this way, the supply mechanism 42 adjusts the concentration of the humidifying liquid by supplying replenishment liquid to match the liquid level electrode 50 at the first position P1, and by supplying replenishment liquid to match the liquid level electrode 50 at the second position P2.

[0076] In the first embodiment, the supply mechanism 42 may fill the storage section 22 with a humidifying solution of a concentration suitable for humidifying the second discharge liquid. In this case, the supply mechanism 42 fills the humidifying solution so that its liquid level reaches the liquid level electrode 50 located at the second position P2. When using the humidifying solution, the supply mechanism 42 maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at the time of filling by supplying replenishment liquid so that the liquid level electrode 50 located at the second position P2 remains in a state where it detects the humidifying solution. When using the humidifying solution, the supply mechanism 42 maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at a higher level than when it was filled by supplying replenishment liquid so that the liquid level electrode 50 located at the first position P1 remains in a state where it detects the humidifying solution. More specifically, the supply mechanism 42 maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at a higher level than when it was filled by supplying replenishment liquid so that the liquid level matches the tip of the liquid level electrode 50 located at the first position P1. That is, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid so that the amount of humidifying solution is less than when it was filled.

[0077] <Effects and Actions of the First Embodiment> Next, the operation and effects of the first embodiment will be described. (1-1) When the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at a reference liquid level L1. When the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 to maintain the humidifying liquid at a second liquid volume, which is greater than the first liquid volume. With the above configuration, by maintaining the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a constant level. As a result, the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. By maintaining the humidifying liquid at a second liquid volume, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a lower level than when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. As a result, the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid. In this way, the supply mechanism 42 adjusts the concentration of the humidifying liquid by supplying replenishment liquid to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume or a second liquid volume. Therefore, the humidifying unit 21 can handle the humidification of both the first discharged liquid and the second discharged liquid with a single humidifying liquid.

[0078] (1-2) When the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain a state in which the liquid level electrode 50 located at the first position P1 detects the humidifying liquid. When the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain a state in which the liquid level electrode 50 located at the second position P2 detects the humidifying liquid. With the above configuration, the humidifying unit 21 can adjust the concentration of the humidifying liquid by supplying replenishment liquid in accordance with the liquid level electrode 50 located at the first position P1, or by supplying replenishment liquid in accordance with the liquid level electrode 50 located at the second position P2.

[0079] (1-3) The humidifying unit 21 comprises a cap 23 and a connecting channel 27. With the above configuration, moisture is supplied from the humidifying liquid to the cap 23 through the connecting channel 27, thereby humidifying the liquid in the discharge section 13.

[0080] (1-4) The connecting channel 27 has a supply section 28 and a recovery section 29. With the above configuration, the humidifying liquid can circulate between the storage section 22 and the cap 23. This makes it easier to maintain a uniform concentration of the humidifying liquid.

[0081] <Second Example> Next, a second embodiment of the humidifying unit 21 will be described. In the second embodiment, the storage section 22 is filled with a humidifying solution of a concentration suitable for humidifying the first discharged liquid.

[0082] As shown in Figure 4, the liquid level sensor 48 has multiple liquid level electrodes 50. More specifically, the liquid level sensor 48 has a first liquid level electrode 54 and a second liquid level electrode 55. The first liquid level electrode 54 is longer than the second liquid level electrode 55. Therefore, the distance between the tip of the first liquid level electrode 54 and the bottom of the reservoir 22 is smaller than the distance between the tip of the second liquid level electrode 55 and the bottom of the reservoir 22.

[0083] The first liquid level electrode 54 is an electrode that determines the reference liquid level L1. The first liquid level electrode 54 is an electrode that detects that the humidifying solution is at the reference liquid level L1. The liquid level sensor 48 detects that the humidifying solution is at the reference liquid level L1 when the reference electrode 49 and the first liquid level electrode 54 become electrically conductive. The first liquid level electrode 54 is an electrode that detects that the humidifying solution is at the first liquid volume. The liquid level sensor 48 detects that the humidifying solution is at the first liquid volume when the reference electrode 49 and the first liquid level electrode 54 become electrically conductive.

[0084] The second liquid level electrode 55 is an electrode that detects when the humidifying solution is at a level higher than the reference liquid level L1. The liquid level sensor 48 detects when the humidifying solution is at a level higher than the reference liquid level L1 by the electrical conductivity between the reference electrode 49 and the second liquid level electrode 55. In other words, the liquid level sensor 48 detects when the humidifying solution is stored at a volume greater than when it is at the reference liquid level L1 by the electrical conductivity between the reference electrode 49 and the second liquid level electrode 55. The second liquid level electrode 55 detects when the humidifying solution is at a second volume. The liquid level sensor 48 detects when the humidifying solution is at a second volume by the electrical conductivity between the reference electrode 49 and the second liquid level electrode 55.

[0085] The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the state in which the first liquid level electrode 54 detects the humidifying liquid when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. In other words, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at the reference liquid level L1 when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at the first liquid volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. When the liquid level of the humidifying liquid falls below the first liquid level electrode 54, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid so as to raise the liquid level of the humidifying liquid to the first liquid level electrode 54. This maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid at the same level as when it was filled.

[0086] The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the state in which the second liquid level electrode 55 detects the humidifying liquid when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid. In other words, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at a volume higher than when the humidifying liquid is maintained at the reference liquid level L1 when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid. The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at the second liquid volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid. When the liquid level of the humidifying liquid falls below the second liquid level electrode 55, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid so that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid reaches the second liquid level electrode 55. This maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid at a lower level than when it was filled.

[0087] The humidifying unit 21 adjusts the humidifying solution to a concentration corresponding to the length of the liquid level electrode 50 by changing the liquid level electrode 50 used according to the discharged liquid being used. The humidifying unit 21 can adjust the concentration of the humidifying solution by supplying replenishment solution according to the first liquid level electrode 54 or supplying replenishment solution according to the second liquid level electrode 55.

[0088] In the second embodiment, the supply mechanism 42 may fill the storage section 22 with a humidifying solution of a concentration suitable for humidifying the second discharged liquid. In this case, the supply mechanism 42 fills the humidifying solution so that its liquid level reaches the second liquid level electrode 55. When using the humidifying solution, the supply mechanism 42 maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at the time of filling by supplying replenishment liquid so that the second liquid level electrode 55 remains in a state where it detects the humidifying solution. When using the humidifying solution, the supply mechanism 42 maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at a higher level than at the time of filling by supplying replenishment liquid so that the first liquid level electrode 54 remains in a state where it detects the humidifying solution. More specifically, the supply mechanism 42 maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at a higher level than at the time of filling by supplying replenishment liquid so that the liquid level matches the tip of the first liquid level electrode 54. That is, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid so that the amount of humidifying solution is less than at the time of filling.

[0089] <Effects and Effects of the Second Embodiment> Next, the action and effects of the second embodiment will be described. According to the second embodiment, in addition to (1-1), (1-3), and (1-4), the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0090] (2-1) The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the state in which the first liquid level electrode 54 detects the humidifying liquid when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage unit 22 so as to maintain the state in which the second liquid level electrode 55 detects the humidifying liquid when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid. With the above configuration, the humidifying unit 21 can adjust the concentration of the humidifying liquid by supplying replenishment liquid in accordance with the first liquid level electrode 54 or by supplying replenishment liquid in accordance with the second liquid level electrode 55.

[0091] <Third Example> Next, a third embodiment of the humidifying unit 21 will be described. In the third embodiment, the storage section 22 is filled with a humidifying solution of a concentration suitable for humidifying the first discharge liquid.

[0092] As shown in Figure 5, the adjustment unit 41 has a change mechanism 56. The change mechanism 56 is configured to change the volume of the storage unit 22. The change mechanism 56 is configured to change the volume of the storage unit 22 between a first volume and a second volume. The second volume is larger than the first volume.

[0093] In the example shown in Figure 5, the modification mechanism 56 has an expansion valve 57. The expansion valve 57 is a valve that expands the volume of the storage section 22. The expansion valve 57 is attached to the storage section 22. When the expansion valve 57 is closed, the storage section 22 has a first volume. When the expansion valve 57 is open, the storage section 22 has a second volume. The expansion valve 57 may be an automatically operating solenoid valve or a valve that is operated manually by the user.

[0094] The storage unit 22 has a main storage body 58 and a sub-storage body 59. The main storage body 58 is the part of the storage unit 22 that is connected to the connecting channel 27. The main storage body 58 is the part of the storage unit 22 to which the liquid level sensor 48 is attached. The volume of the main storage body 58 is the first volume. The sub-storage body 59 is attached to the main storage body 58. The sub-storage body 59 may be configured to be detachably attached to the main storage body 58. The sub-storage body 59 is connected to the main storage body 58. The sub-storage body 59 is connected to the main storage body 58 so as to be accessible through an expansion valve 57. When the expansion valve 57 is open, the inside of the sub-storage body 59 is accessible through the inside of the main storage body 58. The sum of the volume of the main storage body 58 and the volume of the sub-storage body 59 is the second volume.

[0095] In the third embodiment, the storage section 22 is filled with moisturizing liquid when it is at a first volume. That is, the storage section 22 is filled with moisturizing liquid when the expansion valve 57 is closed. As a result, the main storage body 58 is filled with moisturizing liquid. At this time, the moisturizing liquid is filled until it reaches the standard liquid level L1. Therefore, the storage section 22, which is at a first volume, is filled with moisturizing liquid to reach the standard liquid level L1.

[0096] When using the humectant solution, the amount of humectant solution required to maintain it at the standard liquid level L1 differs depending on whether the storage section 22 is at the first volume or the second volume. When the storage section 22 is at the first volume, maintaining the humectant solution at the standard liquid level L1 results in the humectant solution being maintained at the first liquid level. When the storage section 22 is at the second volume, maintaining the humectant solution at the standard liquid level L1 results in the humectant solution being maintained at the second liquid level.

[0097] The changing mechanism 56 maintains the storage section 22 at a first volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage section 22 to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at a reference liquid level L1 when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. When the liquid level of the humidifying liquid falls below the liquid level electrode 50, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid so that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid reaches the liquid level electrode 50. This maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid at the time of filling.

[0098] The changing mechanism 56 changes the storage section 22 to the second volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid. In this case, the changing mechanism 56 opens the expansion valve 57. When the expansion valve 57 opens, the humidifying liquid flows from the main storage section 58 to the sub-storage section 59. As a result, the humidifying liquid falls below the standard liquid level L1. When the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, the changing mechanism 56 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage section 22 to maintain the humidifying liquid at the standard liquid level L1, thereby maintaining the humidifying liquid at the second volume. When the liquid level of the humidifying liquid falls below the liquid level electrode 50, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid so that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid reaches the liquid level electrode 50. This maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid at a lower level than at the time of filling.

[0099] The humidifying unit 21 adjusts the humidifying solution to a concentration corresponding to the volume of the storage section 22 by changing the volume of the storage section 22. The humidifying unit 21 can adjust the concentration of the humidifying solution by supplying replenishment solution to the first volume storage section 22 to maintain the humidifying solution at a standard liquid level L1, or by supplying replenishment solution to the second volume storage section 22 to maintain the humidifying solution at a standard liquid level L1.

[0100] <Effects and Actions of the Third Embodiment> Next, the action and effects of the third embodiment will be described. According to the third embodiment, in addition to (1-1), (1-3), and (1-4), the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0101] (3-1) The changing mechanism 56 maintains the storage section 22 at a first volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage section 22 so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at a standard liquid level L1 when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. The changing mechanism 56 changes the storage section 22 to a second volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid. The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage section 22 so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at a second liquid volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at a standard liquid level L1 when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid. With the above configuration, the amount of liquid stored when the humidifying liquid is maintained at a standard liquid level L1 changes as the volume of the storage section 22 is changed. When the storage section 22 is at the first volume and the humidifying liquid is maintained at the standard liquid level L1, the humidifying liquid is maintained at a first liquid volume. When the storage section 22 is at the second volume, maintaining the humidifying solution at the standard liquid level L1 results in the humidifying solution being maintained at the second volume. Therefore, the humidifying solution is maintained at a different concentration depending on whether replenishment solution is supplied to maintain the humidifying solution at the standard liquid level L1 in the storage section 22, which is at the first volume, or in the storage section 22, which is at the second volume. When the storage section 22, which is at the first volume, is filled with humidifying solution to the standard liquid level L1, supplying replenishment solution to maintain the humidifying solution at the standard liquid level L1 in the storage section 22, which is maintained at the first volume, maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at the same level as when it was filled. When the storage section 22, which is at the first volume, is filled with humidifying solution to the standard liquid level L1, supplying replenishment solution to maintain the humidifying solution at the standard liquid level L1 in the storage section 22, which has been changed to the second volume, maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at a lower level than when it was filled. In this way, the humidifying unit 21 can adjust the concentration of the humidifying solution by changing the volume of the storage section 22.

[0102] <Fourth Example> Next, a fourth embodiment of the humidifying unit 21 will be described. In the fourth embodiment, the storage section 22 is filled with a humidifying solution of a concentration suitable for humidifying the first discharge liquid.

[0103] As shown in Figure 6, similar to the third embodiment, the adjustment unit 41 has a changing mechanism 56. The changing mechanism 56 is configured to change the volume of the storage unit 22. The changing mechanism 56 is configured to change the volume of the storage unit 22 between a first volume and a second volume.

[0104] In the example shown in Figure 6, the change mechanism 56 has a variable body 60. The variable body 60 is located inside the storage section 22. The variable body 60 is configured to change its volume. When the volume of the variable body 60 increases, the volume of the storage section 22 decreases. When the volume of the variable body 60 decreases, the volume of the storage section 22 increases. The variable body 60 may be, for example, a balloon or a lifting body. The variable body 60 only needs to be configured to change the space it occupies inside the storage section 22.

[0105] The changing mechanism 56 changes the volume of the storage section 22 between a first volume and a second volume by changing the volume of the variable body 60. The variable body 60 may be configured to change the volume of the storage section 22 between a first volume, a second volume and a third volume. The third volume is a volume smaller than the first volume.

[0106] In the fourth embodiment, the storage section 22 is filled with humidifying liquid when it is at a first volume. At this time, the humidifying liquid is filled until it reaches the standard liquid level L1. Therefore, the storage section 22, which is at a first volume, is filled with humidifying liquid so that it reaches the standard liquid level L1. After filling, when the volume of the variable body 60 decreases, the volume of the storage section 22 increases, causing the liquid level of the humidifying liquid to drop. After filling, when the volume of the variable body 60 increases, the volume of the storage section 22 decreases, causing the liquid level of the humidifying liquid to rise.

[0107] When using the humectant solution, the amount of humectant solution required to maintain it at the standard liquid level L1 differs depending on whether the storage section 22 is at the first volume or the second volume. When the storage section 22 is at the first volume, maintaining the humectant solution at the standard liquid level L1 results in the humectant solution being maintained at the first liquid level. When the storage section 22 is at the second volume, maintaining the humectant solution at the standard liquid level L1 results in the humectant solution being maintained at the second liquid level.

[0108] The changing mechanism 56 maintains the storage section 22 at a first volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. The supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage section 22 to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at a reference liquid level L1 when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid. When the liquid level of the humidifying liquid falls below the liquid level electrode 50, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid so that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid reaches the liquid level electrode 50. This maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid at the time of filling.

[0109] The changing mechanism 56 changes the volume of the storage section 22 to the second volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid. In this case, the changing mechanism 56 reduces the volume of the variable body 60. When the volume of the variable body 60 decreases, the volume of the storage section 22 increases. As a result, the humidifying liquid falls below the standard liquid level L1. When the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, the changing mechanism 56 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage section 22 to maintain the humidifying liquid at the second liquid level by maintaining the humidifying liquid at the standard liquid level L1. When the liquid level of the humidifying liquid falls below the liquid level electrode 50, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid so that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid reaches the liquid level electrode 50. This maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid at a lower level than at the time of filling.

[0110] The humidifying unit 21 adjusts the humidifying solution to a concentration corresponding to the volume of the storage section 22 by changing the volume of the storage section 22. The humidifying unit 21 can adjust the concentration of the humidifying solution by supplying replenishment solution to the first volume storage section 22 to maintain the humidifying solution at a standard liquid level L1, or by supplying replenishment solution to the second volume storage section 22 to maintain the humidifying solution at a standard liquid level L1.

[0111] In the fourth embodiment, the supply mechanism 42 may fill the storage section 22 with a humidifying solution of a concentration suitable for humidifying the second discharged liquid. In this case, the supply mechanism 42 fills the storage section 22 with humidifying solution to a second volume. When the humidifying solution is used, the changing mechanism 56 maintains the storage section 22 at a second volume when the humidifying solution humidifies the second discharged liquid. When the humidifying solution humidifies the second discharged liquid, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment solution to the storage section 22 to maintain the humidifying solution at a second volume by maintaining the humidifying solution at a standard liquid level L1. This maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at the time of filling. When the humidifying solution is used, the changing mechanism 56 changes the storage section 22 to a first volume when the humidifying solution humidifies the first discharged liquid. When the humidifying solution humidifies the first discharged liquid, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment solution to the storage section 22 to maintain the humidifying solution at a first volume by maintaining the humidifying solution at a standard liquid level L1. This ensures that the concentration of the moisturizing solution remains higher than it was at the time of filling.

[0112] <Effects and Actions of the Fourth Embodiment> Next, the action and effects of the third embodiment will be described. According to the fourth embodiment, the actions and effects of (1-1), (1-3), (1-4), and (3-1) can be obtained.

[0113] <Example 5> Next, a fifth embodiment of the humidifying unit 21 will be described. In the fifth embodiment, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is adjusted by a filling sequence and a replenishment sequence. In the fifth embodiment, a humidifying liquid of a concentration suitable for humidifying the first discharge liquid is filled into the storage unit 22.

[0114] As shown in Figure 7, the storage section 22 is filled with humidifying liquid so that the liquid level reaches the standard liquid level L1. In other words, the supply mechanism 42 fills the storage section 22 with humidifying liquid so that the liquid level reaches the standard liquid level L1.

[0115] The supply mechanism 42 drives the replenishment pump 47 to maintain the humidifying solution at a first liquid volume when the humidifying solution humidifies the first discharged solution. The supply mechanism 42 drives the replenishment pump 47 to maintain the humidifying solution at a standard liquid level L1 when the humidifying solution humidifies the first discharged solution. This maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at the time of filling.

[0116] As shown in Figure 8, when the second discharge liquid is being humidified, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage section 22 so that the humidifying liquid reaches the first liquid volume, and then drives the replenishment pump 47 by a predetermined amount to maintain the humidifying liquid at the second liquid volume. Specifically, when the humidifying liquid falls below the standard liquid level L1, the supply mechanism 42 drives the replenishment pump 47 to supply replenishment liquid until it reaches the standard liquid level L1. When the humidifying liquid reaches the standard liquid level L1, the supply mechanism 42 drives the replenishment pump 47 by a predetermined amount to supply an amount of replenishment liquid corresponding to the amount the replenishment pump 47 is driven. As a result, the liquid level of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a level higher than the standard liquid level L1. That is, the humidifying liquid is maintained at the second liquid volume. This maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid at a level lower than at the time of filling.

[0117] <Effects and Actions of the Fifth Embodiment> Next, the action and effects of the fourth embodiment will be described. According to the fifth embodiment, in addition to (1-1), (1-3), and (1-4), the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0118] (5-1) When the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid, the supply mechanism 42 drives the replenishment pump 47 to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume. When the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to maintain the humidifying liquid at a second liquid volume by driving the replenishment pump 47 by a predetermined amount after supplying replenishment liquid to bring the humidifying liquid to a first liquid volume, and then drives the replenishment pump 47 by a predetermined amount. With the above configuration, when the first discharged liquid is humidified, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at the same level as when it was filled. When the second discharged liquid is humidified, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a lower level than when it was filled. As a result, the humidifying unit 21 can adjust the humidifying liquid to a concentration suitable for humidifying the first discharged liquid and a concentration suitable for humidifying the second discharged liquid.

[0119] <Sixth Example> Next, a fourth embodiment of the humidifying unit 21 will be described. In the sixth embodiment, similar to the fifth embodiment, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is adjusted by a filling sequence and a replenishment sequence. In the sixth embodiment, a humidifying liquid of a concentration suitable for humidifying the second discharge liquid is filled into the storage unit 22.

[0120] As shown in Figure 9, the storage section 22 is filled with humidifying liquid at a liquid level higher than the reference liquid level L1. In other words, the supply mechanism 42 fills the storage section 22 with humidifying liquid so that the liquid level is higher than the reference liquid level L1. More specifically, after the supply mechanism 42 fills the storage section 22 with humidifying liquid so that the humidifying liquid reaches a first liquid volume, it drives the replenishment pump 47 by a predetermined amount to fill the storage section 22 with humidifying liquid at a liquid level higher than the reference liquid level L1. At this time, after the supply mechanism 42 fills the storage section 22 with humidifying liquid so that the humidifying liquid reaches a first liquid volume, it drives the replenishment pump 47 by a predetermined amount to fill the storage section 22 with humidifying liquid at a second liquid volume.

[0121] When the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage section 22 so that the humidifying liquid reaches the first liquid volume, and then drives the replenishment pump 47 by a predetermined amount to maintain the humidifying liquid at the second liquid volume. Specifically, when the humidifying liquid falls below the standard liquid level L1, the supply mechanism 42 drives the replenishment pump 47 to supply replenishment liquid until it reaches the standard liquid level L1. When the humidifying liquid reaches the standard liquid level L1, the supply mechanism 42 drives the replenishment pump 47 by a predetermined amount to supply an amount of replenishment liquid corresponding to the amount driven by the replenishment pump 47. This predetermined amount should be close to the predetermined amount at the time of filling. Preferably, it should be the same. By supplying replenishment liquid to the humidifying liquid when the replenishment pump 47 reaches the standard liquid level L1, the liquid level of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a level higher than the standard liquid level L1. That is, the humidifying liquid is maintained at the second liquid volume. This maintains the concentration of the humidifying liquid at the time of filling.

[0122] As shown in Figure 10, the supply mechanism 42 drives the replenishment pump 47 to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid. When the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to the storage section 22 so that the liquid level becomes the reference liquid level L1. In other words, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to maintain a state in which the liquid volume of the humidifying liquid is lower than at the time of filling. As a result, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a higher level than at the time of filling.

[0123] <Effects and Actions of the 6th Embodiment> Next, the action and effects of the sixth embodiment will be described. According to the sixth embodiment, in addition to (1-1), (1-3), and (1-4), the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0124] (6-1) When the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid, the supply mechanism 42 drives the replenishment pump 47 to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume. When the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, the supply mechanism 42 supplies replenishment liquid to maintain the humidifying liquid at a second liquid volume by driving the replenishment pump 47 by a predetermined amount. With the above configuration, when the second discharge liquid is humidified, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a level close to that at the time of filling. When the first discharge liquid is humidified, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a level higher than that at the time of filling. As a result, the adjustment unit 41 can adjust the humidifying liquid to a concentration suitable for humidifying the first discharge liquid and a concentration suitable for humidifying the second discharge liquid.

[0125] <Technical philosophy> The technical concepts and their effects, as understood from the above-described examples, are explained below. (A) The humidifying unit is a humidifying unit that humidifies a first discharge liquid or a second discharge liquid supplied to a discharge unit, and comprises a storage unit for storing the humidifying liquid and an adjustment unit for adjusting the concentration of the humidifying liquid stored in the storage unit, wherein the adjustment unit has a liquid level sensor for detecting that the liquid level of the humidifying liquid stored in the storage unit is at a reference liquid level, and a supply mechanism for supplying a replenishment liquid to the storage unit to replenish moisture in the humidifying liquid, wherein when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid, the supply mechanism supplies a replenishment liquid to the storage unit to maintain the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at the reference liquid level, and when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, the supply mechanism supplies a replenishment liquid to the storage unit to maintain the humidifying liquid at a second liquid volume greater than the first liquid volume. With the above configuration, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a constant level by maintaining the humidifying liquid at a first liquid volume. As a result, the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid. By maintaining the humidifying solution at the second volume, the concentration of the humidifying solution is kept lower than when it humidifies the first discharged solution. This allows the humidifying solution to humidify the second discharged solution. Thus, the supply mechanism adjusts the concentration of the humidifying solution by supplying replenishment solution to maintain the humidifying solution at either the first or second volume. Therefore, the humidifying unit can handle the humidification of both the first and second discharged solutions with a single humidifying solution.

[0126] (B) In the above-described humidifying unit, the liquid level sensor has a liquid level electrode that detects the humidifying liquid by contacting the humidifying liquid stored in the storage section, the adjustment section has a lifting mechanism that raises and lowers the liquid level electrode, the liquid level electrode is displaced between a first position and a second position by moving up and down, the first position is the position in which the liquid level electrode detects that the humidifying liquid is at the first liquid volume, and the second position is the position in which the liquid level electrode detects that the humidifying liquid is at the second liquid volume, and the supply mechanism may supply replenishment liquid to the storage section so as to maintain the state in which the liquid level electrode located at the first position detects the humidifying liquid when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid, and supply replenishment liquid to the storage section so as to maintain the state in which the liquid level electrode located at the second position detects the humidifying liquid when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid. With the above configuration, the humidifying unit can adjust the concentration of the humidifying liquid by supplying replenishment liquid in accordance with the liquid level electrode located at the first position or by supplying replenishment liquid in accordance with the liquid level electrode located at the second position.

[0127] (C) In the above-described humidifying unit, the liquid level sensor has a first liquid level electrode for detecting that the humidifying liquid is at the first liquid level, and a second liquid level electrode for detecting that the humidifying liquid is at the second liquid level, and the supply mechanism may supply replenishment liquid to the storage unit so as to maintain the state in which the first liquid level electrode detects the humidifying liquid when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid, and supply replenishment liquid to the storage unit so as to maintain the state in which the second liquid level electrode detects the humidifying liquid when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid. With the above configuration, the humidifying unit can adjust the concentration of the humidifying liquid by supplying replenishment liquid in accordance with the first liquid level electrode or by supplying replenishment liquid in accordance with the second liquid level electrode.

[0128] (D) The above-mentioned humidifying unit is a humidifying unit in which a humidifying liquid is filled into a storage section which has a first volume so that it reaches the standard liquid level, and the adjustment section has a changing mechanism that changes the volume of the storage section between the first volume and a second volume which is larger than the first volume, and the changing mechanism maintains the storage section at the first volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid, and changes the storage section to the second volume when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid, and the supply mechanism may supply replenishment liquid to the storage section so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at the first liquid volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at the standard liquid level when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid, and supply replenishment liquid to the storage section so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at the second liquid volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at the standard liquid level when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid. According to the above configuration, the amount of liquid stored when the humidifying liquid is maintained at the standard liquid level changes as the volume of the storage section is changed. When the storage section is at volume 1, maintaining the humidifying solution at the standard liquid level results in the humidifying solution being maintained at volume 1. When the storage section is at volume 2, maintaining the humidifying solution at the standard liquid level results in the humidifying solution being maintained at volume 2. Therefore, the humidifying solution is maintained at a different concentration depending on whether replenishment solution is supplied to maintain the humidifying solution at the standard liquid level in the storage section of volume 1 or in the storage section of volume 2. When the storage section of volume 1 is filled with humidifying solution to the standard liquid level, supplying replenishment solution to maintain the humidifying solution at the standard liquid level in the storage section maintained at volume 1 maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at the level at the time of filling. When the storage section of volume 1 is filled with humidifying solution to the standard liquid level, supplying replenishment solution to maintain the humidifying solution at the standard liquid level in the storage section changed to volume 2 maintains the concentration of the humidifying solution at a lower level than at the time of filling. In this way, the humidifying unit can adjust the concentration of the humidifying solution by changing the volume of the storage section.

[0129] (E) The above-mentioned humidifying unit is a humidifying unit in which a humidifying liquid is filled into the storage section so that it reaches the reference liquid level, and the supply mechanism has a replenishment pump for supplying replenishment liquid to the storage section, and when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid, the replenishment pump is driven to maintain the humidifying liquid at the first liquid volume, and when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid, after supplying replenishment liquid so that the humidifying liquid reaches the first liquid volume, the replenishment pump is driven by a predetermined amount to supply replenishment liquid to the storage section so that the humidifying liquid is maintained at the second liquid volume. With the above configuration, when the first discharged liquid is humidified, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at the state at the time of filling. When the second discharged liquid is humidified, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a lower state than at the time of filling. As a result, the humidifying unit can adjust the humidifying liquid to a concentration suitable for humidifying the first discharged liquid and a concentration suitable for humidifying the second discharged liquid.

[0130] (F) The above-mentioned humidifying unit is a humidifying unit in which a humidifying liquid is filled in the storage section at a liquid level higher than the reference liquid level, and the supply mechanism has a replenishment pump for supplying replenishment liquid to the storage section, and when the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharged liquid, the replenishment pump is driven to maintain the humidifying liquid at the first liquid volume, and when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharged liquid, replenishment liquid is supplied to the storage section to maintain the humidifying liquid at the second liquid volume by supplying replenishment liquid so that the humidifying liquid reaches the first liquid volume, and then driving the replenishment pump by a predetermined amount. With the above configuration, when the second discharged liquid is humidified, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a level close to that at the time of filling. When the first discharged liquid is humidified, the concentration of the humidifying liquid is maintained at a level higher than that at the time of filling. As a result, the humidifying unit can adjust the humidifying liquid to a concentration suitable for humidifying the first discharged liquid and a concentration suitable for humidifying the second discharged liquid.

[0131] (G) The above-mentioned humidifying unit may include a cap that contacts the discharge section and a connecting channel connected to the cap and the storage section. With this configuration, the liquid in the discharge section can be humidified by supplying moisture from the humidifying liquid to the cap through the connecting channel.

[0132] (H) In the above-described humidifying unit, the connecting channel may have a supply section through which the humidifying liquid flows from the storage section toward the cap, and a recovery section through which the humidifying liquid flows from the cap toward the storage section. With this configuration, the humidifying liquid can circulate between the storage section and the cap. This makes it easier to maintain a uniform concentration of the humidifying liquid.

[0133] (I) The liquid dispensing device comprises the above-mentioned humidifying unit and the dispensing unit. With the above configuration, the same effect as the above-mentioned humidifying unit can be obtained. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0134] 11...Liquid dispensing device, 12...Liquid container, 13...Dispensing section, 14...Nozzle, 15...Nozzle surface, 16...Supply section, 17...Supply channel, 21...Moisturizing unit, 22...Storage section, 23...Cap, 24...Cap member, 25...Partition membrane, 26...Absorbent, 27...Connecting channel, 28...Supply section, 29...Recovery section, 30...Flow pump, 31...First check valve, 32...Second check valve, 41...Adjustment section, 42...Supply mechanism, 43...Refill tank, 44...Refill channel, 45 ...on / off valve, 46...one-way valve, 47...replenishment pump, 48...liquid level sensor, 49...reference electrode, 50...liquid level electrode, 51...control unit, 52...moisturizing liquid container, 53...lifting mechanism, 53a...scale, 54...first liquid level electrode, 55...second liquid level electrode, 56...change mechanism, 57...expansion valve, 58...main reservoir, 59...sub reservoir, 60...fluctuating body, C1...cap space, C2...first space, C3...second space, L1...reference liquid level, P1...first position, P2...second position.

Claims

1. A humidifying unit that humidifies the first or second discharge liquid supplied to the discharge section, A storage section for storing moisturizing liquid, The storage section includes an adjustment unit for adjusting the concentration of the moisturizing liquid stored in the storage section, The adjustment unit is, A liquid level sensor detects that the liquid level of the moisturizing liquid stored in the storage section is at the reference liquid level, It has a supply mechanism that supplies a replenishment liquid to the storage section to replenish moisture in the humectant solution, The aforementioned supply mechanism is When the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid, the replenishment liquid is supplied to the storage unit so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at the first liquid volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at the reference liquid level. A humidifying unit characterized in that, when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, a replenishment liquid is supplied to the storage section so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at a second liquid volume greater than the first liquid volume.

2. The liquid level sensor has a liquid level electrode that detects the humidifying liquid stored in the storage section by contacting the humidifying liquid, The adjustment unit has a lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the liquid level electrode. The liquid level electrode is displaced between a first position and a second position by moving up and down. The first position is the position in which the liquid level electrode detects that the humectant liquid is at the first liquid volume. The second position is the position in which the liquid level electrode detects that the humectant liquid is at the second liquid volume. The aforementioned supply mechanism is When the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid, the replenishment liquid is supplied to the storage unit so as to maintain the state in which the liquid level electrode located at the first position detects the humidifying liquid. The humidifying unit according to claim 1, characterized in that when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, replenishment liquid is supplied to the storage section in such a way that the liquid level electrode located at the second position maintains a state in which it detects the humidifying liquid.

3. The aforementioned liquid level sensor is A first liquid level electrode for detecting that the humectant liquid is at the first liquid level, It includes a second liquid level electrode for detecting that the humectant liquid is at the second liquid level, The aforementioned supply mechanism is When the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid, the replenishment liquid is supplied to the storage unit so as to maintain the state in which the first liquid level electrode detects the humidifying liquid. The humidifying unit according to claim 1, characterized in that when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, a replenishment liquid is supplied to the storage section in such a way that the second liquid level electrode maintains a state in which it detects the humidifying liquid.

4. A humidifying unit in which a humidifying liquid is filled into the storage section, which has a first volume, so that it reaches the reference liquid level, The adjustment unit has a changing mechanism that changes the volume of the storage unit between the first volume and a second volume that is larger than the first volume. The aforementioned modification mechanism is When the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid, the storage section is maintained at the first volume. When the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, the storage volume is changed to the second volume. The aforementioned supply mechanism is When the humidifying liquid humidifies the first discharge liquid, the replenishment liquid is supplied to the storage unit so as to maintain the humidifying liquid at the first liquid volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at the reference liquid level. The humidifying unit according to claim 1, characterized in that when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, a replenishment liquid is supplied to the storage section in such a way that the humidifying liquid is maintained at the second liquid volume by maintaining the humidifying liquid at the reference liquid level.

5. The humidifying unit is characterized in that the humidifying liquid is filled into the storage section so that it reaches the aforementioned reference liquid level, The aforementioned supply mechanism is It has a replenishment pump that supplies replenishment liquid to the storage section, When the humidifying solution humidifies the first discharged liquid, the replenishment pump is driven to maintain the humidifying solution at the first liquid volume. The humidifying unit according to claim 1, characterized in that when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, after supplying replenishment liquid so that the humidifying liquid becomes the first liquid volume, the replenishment pump is driven by a predetermined amount to supply replenishment liquid to the storage unit so that the humidifying liquid is maintained at the second liquid volume.

6. The humidifying unit is characterized in that the humidifying liquid is filled into the storage section at a liquid level higher than the reference liquid level, The aforementioned supply mechanism is It has a replenishment pump that supplies replenishment liquid to the storage section, When the humidifying solution humidifies the first discharged liquid, the replenishment pump is driven to maintain the humidifying solution at the first liquid volume. The humidifying unit according to claim 1, characterized in that when the humidifying liquid humidifies the second discharge liquid, after supplying replenishment liquid so that the humidifying liquid becomes the first liquid volume, the replenishment pump is driven by a predetermined amount to supply replenishment liquid to the storage unit so that the humidifying liquid is maintained at the second liquid volume.

7. A cap that contacts the discharge portion, The humidifying unit according to claim 1, further comprising the cap and a connecting channel connected to the storage section.

8. The aforementioned connecting channel is A supply section through which the moisturizing liquid flows from the storage section toward the cap, The moisturizing unit according to claim 7, characterized by having a recovery section through which moisturizing liquid flows from the cap toward the storage section.

9. A moisturizing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, A liquid dispensing device characterized by comprising the aforementioned dispensing section.

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