Liquid dispensing head

Abstract

To provide a liquid ejection head that can suppress the deterioration of print quality. [Solution] The liquid discharge head comprises a plurality of discharge ports arranged in a predetermined alignment direction, a plurality of individual liquid chambers 40 corresponding to each of the plurality of discharge ports and communicating with the discharge ports, an energy generating element provided in each of the plurality of individual liquid chambers for generating energy to discharge liquid from the discharge ports, a common liquid chamber 41 communicating with the plurality of individual liquid chambers 40, and a supply port 50 communicating with the common liquid chamber 41 and supplying liquid to the individual liquid chambers via the common liquid chamber. In the alignment direction, one end of the liquid discharge head is designated as the first end and the other end as the second end, and the individual liquid chamber 40 closest to the first end among the plurality of individual liquid chambers 40 is designated as the first individual liquid chamber 40a. The supply port 50 is positioned closer to the first end than the first individual liquid chamber 40a.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid ejection head.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a liquid ejection head such as an inkjet head, there is known one that drives a driving element (energy generating element) such as a piezoelectric element or an electrothermal conversion element and ejects a liquid based on the generation of pressure or bubbles. In such a liquid ejection head, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which liquid can be supplied from a plurality of supply ports (nozzles) to most of the ejection ports (nozzles) in an ejection port row formed by arranging a plurality of ejection ports.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the above-described configuration, when performing a suction recovery using a cap or a recovery operation by preliminary ejection for driving a driving element, liquid can be supplied only from one supply port to the ejection port arranged at the end of the ejection port row. If the liquid supply amount is insufficient in the recovery operation, nozzle clogging may be caused, leading to a decrease in printing quality.

[0005] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a liquid ejection head capable of suppressing a decrease in printing quality.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above object, the liquid ejection head of the present invention is a liquid ejection head for ejecting liquid toward a recording medium, A plurality of outlets for discharging liquid, wherein the plurality of outlets are arranged in a predetermined direction, A plurality of individual liquid chambers are provided corresponding to each of the plurality of discharge ports and communicating with the discharge port, An energy generating element is provided in each of the plurality of individual liquid chambers, which generates energy to discharge liquid from the discharge port, A common liquid chamber that communicates with the aforementioned multiple individual liquid chambers, A supply port that communicates with the common liquid chamber and supplies liquid to the individual liquid chambers via the common liquid chamber, Equipped with, In the aforementioned arrangement direction, when one end of the liquid discharge head is designated as the first end and the other end as the second end, and the individual liquid chamber closest to the first end among the plurality of individual liquid chambers is designated as the first individual liquid chamber, the supply port is positioned closer to the first end than the first individual liquid chamber. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, a liquid ejection head that can suppress a decrease in print quality can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the general configuration of the recording device. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of the recording head. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view of the liquid dispensing substrate. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing an overview of the first comparative example. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates the liquid flow during the recovery operation of the first embodiment and the first comparative example. [Figure 7] This figure shows an overview of the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the third embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows an overview of the second comparative example. [Figure 10] It is an explanatory diagram of the liquid flow during the recovery operation of the third embodiment and the second comparative example. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing the outline of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing the outline of the third comparative example. [Figure 13] It is an explanatory diagram of the liquid flow during the recovery operation of the fourth embodiment and the third comparative example. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing the outline of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing the outline of the fourth comparative example. [Figure 16] It is an explanatory diagram of the liquid flow during the recovery operation of the fifth embodiment and the fourth comparative example.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, embodiments for carrying out this invention will be exemplarily and specifically described based on examples. Note that the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative arrangements, etc. of the components described in this embodiment should be appropriately changed according to the configuration of the device to which the invention is applied and various conditions. That is, it is not intended to limit the scope of this invention to the following embodiments. Also, not all combinations of the features described in this embodiment are essential for the solution means of this disclosure.

[0010] In this specification, "recording" (sometimes referred to as "printing" or "print") not only refers to the case of forming significant information such as characters and figures, but also regardless of whether it is significant or not. Further, it also represents the case of forming an image, pattern, pattern, etc. on a recording medium widely, or performing processing on the medium, regardless of whether it is made manifest so that it can be visually perceived by humans.

[0011] <Liquid ejection head> FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a liquid ejection device 2 on which a liquid ejection head 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is mounted. The liquid ejection head 1 is configured as an inkjet recording head (head unit) used for recording a desired image on a recording medium by ejecting ink as a recording liquid onto the recording medium in an inkjet printer or the like as a recording device. However, the present invention can be suitably applied to uses other than inkjet recording heads.

[0012] As the recording method of the liquid ejection device 2 (recording device) according to the present embodiment, a piezo method or a thermal method is preferably adopted. The piezo method is a method of applying a voltage to a piezoelectric element (piezo element) as a recording element to change its volume, and utilizing the energy generated at that time to eject ink. The thermal method is a method of heating ink by a heater as a recording element to generate bubbles, and utilizing the energy generated at that time to eject ink. In addition, a method other than these methods may be used.

[0013] The liquid ejection device 2 of the present embodiment is a serial scan type recording device, and a carriage 4 is guided by a guide shaft 3 so as to be movable in the main scanning direction. The liquid ejection head 1 is mounted on the carriage 4 and is mounted on the liquid ejection device 2 so as to be relatively movable with respect to the recording medium. The carriage 4 is reciprocated in the main scanning direction by a carriage motor (not shown) and a driving force transmission mechanism (not shown) such as a belt for transmitting the driving force thereof. The liquid ejection device 2 repeats a recording operation (printing operation) of ejecting a liquid such as ink toward the recording medium while moving the liquid ejection head 1 in the main scanning direction, and a conveyance operation of conveying the recording medium in the sub-scanning direction by a distance corresponding to the recording width. Thereby, recording of a desired image or the like is performed on the recording medium. At this time, the liquid ejection device 2 conveys the recording medium in a conveyance direction intersecting the main scanning direction of the liquid ejection head 1 by a conveyance mechanism such as a feed roller (not shown). The liquid ejection device 2 repeats a recording operation (printing operation) of ejecting a liquid such as ink toward the recording medium while moving the liquid ejection head 1 in the main scanning direction, and a conveyance operation of conveying the recording medium in the sub-scanning direction by a distance corresponding to the recording width. Thereby, recording of a desired image or the like is performed on the recording medium. At this time, the liquid ejection device 2 conveys the recording medium in a conveyance direction intersecting the main scanning direction of the liquid ejection head 1 by a conveyance mechanism such as a feed roller (not shown).

[0014] In the following description, the main scanning direction of the liquid ejection device 2 will be described as the X direction, the sub-scanning direction as the Y direction, and the direction intersecting the X and Y directions as the Z direction. In the recording unit where the liquid ejection head 1 performs the recording operation, the transport direction of the recording medium by the transport mechanism is parallel to the Y direction, and the width direction of the recording medium is parallel to the X direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the X, Y, and Z directions are orthogonal to each other.

[0015] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the general configuration of the liquid discharge head 1. The liquid discharge head 1 includes a support member 5, a recording element substrate 6, and a discharge port forming member 7. The discharge port forming member 7 has multiple discharge port rows 9, each consisting of multiple discharge ports 10 arranged at approximately equal intervals. Inside the recording element substrate 6 to which the discharge port forming member 7 is connected, a flow path is formed for the liquid discharged from the discharge ports 10 to pass through. The recording element substrate 6 and the discharge port forming member 7 constitute a liquid discharge substrate (substrate for liquid discharge head) 100 that discharges liquid in the liquid discharge head 1. Liquid stored in a tank (not shown) is supplied to the liquid discharge head 1 and supplied to the discharge ports 10 via a flow path provided in the support member 5.

[0016] The liquid ejection device 2 is configured to perform predetermined recovery operations for the purpose of suppressing viscosity increase of the liquid in the liquid ejection head 1 and discharging air bubbles generated in the liquid. Recovery operations include, for example, suction recovery using a cap and pre-ejection to drive the recording element. Pre-ejection is performed independently of the recording signal for recording operations and is also called empty ejection, as it is an ink ejection operation that does not record onto the recording medium. These maintenance operations are performed as appropriate between recording operations (printing operations).

[0017] The liquid ejection device 2 according to this embodiment is an inkjet recording device that circulates a liquid such as ink between a tank and a liquid ejection head. However, it is not limited to this configuration, and other configurations are also possible. For example, the liquid ejection device 2 may not circulate ink, but instead have two tanks, one upstream and one downstream of the liquid ejection head, and the ink in each individual liquid chamber (pressure chamber) may be circulated by flowing ink from one tank to the other.

[0018] Furthermore, the liquid ejection head 1 according to this embodiment is a so-called serial type liquid ejection head that records while scanning the recording medium, but this embodiment can also be applied to a so-called line type head that has a length corresponding to the width of the recording medium. In this embodiment, the serial type liquid ejection head has a configuration in which a black ink ejection port row and a color ink ejection port row are provided on one recording element substrate, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be configured to have one black ink recording element substrate and one color ink recording element substrate. Alternatively, for example, a short line head shorter than the width of the recording medium may be created by arranging several recording element substrates so that the ejection port nozzle rows overlap in the direction of the ejection port nozzle row, and this line head is scanned onto the recording medium.

[0019] <Liquid dispensing head> The detailed configuration of the liquid discharge head 1 will now be described. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the discharge port 10 of the liquid discharge substrate 100, viewed in the Y direction. The flow path formed inside the liquid discharge head 1 consists of a supply port 50 (liquid supply port), a common liquid chamber 41, individual liquid chambers 40 as pressure chambers, a recovery port 51 (liquid recovery port), etc. The supply port 50 and the recovery port 51 are individual ports that open to the joint surface with the discharge port forming member 7 of the recording element substrate 6. Both ends of the individual liquid chamber 40 in the Y direction A common liquid chamber 41 is located on each side. One of the two common liquid chambers 41, which communicate with the individual liquid chambers 40, is connected to a supply port 50 and a recovery port 51.

[0020] The flow path wall of the common liquid chamber 41 is composed of the wall surface of the recording element substrate 6 and the wall surface of the discharge port forming member 7. More specifically, the flow path wall of the common liquid chamber 41 is composed of the inner wall surface 42 extending in the Z direction of the discharge port forming member 7, the inner wall surface 43 perpendicular to the Z direction of the discharge port forming member 7, and the end surface 44 of the recording element substrate 6. The inner wall surface 43 is the surface through which the discharge port 10 opens. The inner wall surface 43 and the end surface 44 are also part of the flow path wall of the individual liquid chamber 40.

[0021] The liquid ejection head 1 includes a recording element 20, which is an energy generating element that generates energy for performing a recording operation. The recording element 20 is sometimes referred to as a driving element because it is driven to perform the recording operation. The recording element 20 is positioned on the end face 44 of the recording element substrate 6, at a location that overlaps with the ejection port 10 on the recording element substrate 6 when viewed in the Z direction.

[0022] During the recording operation, liquid flows from the supply port 50 through the common liquid chamber 41 on the supply side to the individual liquid chambers 40 inside the liquid discharge head 1. Then, driven by the recording element 20, the liquid is discharged from the individual liquid chambers 40 through the discharge port 10. Meanwhile, any liquid in the individual liquid chambers 40 that is not discharged flows through the common liquid chamber 41 on the recovery side to the recovery port 51. This flow path configuration allows the liquid to circulate.

[0023] Next, the detailed configuration of the liquid discharge head 1 will be described in part by multiple embodiments. In these embodiments, the arrangement of the discharge port 10 that constitutes the liquid flow path, the individual liquid chambers 40, the supply port 50, the recovery port 51, etc., in the XY plane will differ. Furthermore, in the following description, the configuration of one end of the liquid discharge substrate 8 in the longitudinal direction will be mainly described, but the other end opposite to the first end may be configured in the same way as the first end.

[0024] [First Embodiment] Figure 4 shows an overview of the first embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the main components near the end of the discharge port row 9 of the liquid discharge head 1 according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship of the main components when the liquid discharge substrate 8 is viewed in the Z direction.

[0025] The liquid discharge substrate 8 of the liquid discharge head 1 has recording elements 20 involved in recording, discharge ports 10 corresponding to the recording elements 20, flow path walls 30 surrounding the recording elements, and individual liquid chambers 40 as pressure chambers surrounded by the flow path walls 30, all arranged at regular intervals along a predetermined arrangement direction. For each of the multiple discharge ports 10, an individual liquid chamber 40 is provided in correspondence, and a recording element 20 is provided in correspondence to each of the multiple individual liquid chambers 40.

[0026] The predetermined arrangement direction is, for example, the longitudinal direction of the recording element substrate 6, and is parallel to the transport direction of the recording medium (sub-scanning direction, Y direction). Along these arrangement directions, a plurality of supply ports 50 and a plurality of collection ports 51 are arranged on both sides of the recording element 20 and ejection port 10 in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction (main scanning direction, X direction). With respect to the row of recording element 20 and ejection port 10, the plurality of supply ports 50 are arranged on one side in the direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction, and the plurality of collection ports 51 are arranged on the other side in the direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction. The supply ports 50 and collection ports 51 are each arranged at a constant spacing along the predetermined arrangement direction.

[0027] In the first embodiment, the multiple individual liquid chambers 40 are arranged in the direction of arrangement at intervals of 1200 dpi. The multiple supply ports 50 and the multiple recovery ports 51 are each arranged in the direction of arrangement at intervals of 150 dpi.

[0028] The common liquid chamber 41 of the first embodiment is composed of a portion extending in the Y direction and communicating with a plurality of supply ports 50, a portion extending in the Y direction and communicating with a plurality of recovery ports 51, and a portion connecting the Y-direction ends of these two portions. Of the common liquid chamber 41, the portion communicating with the plurality of supply ports 50 communicates with one end of the plurality of individual liquid chambers 40, and the portion communicating with the plurality of recovery ports 51 communicates with the other end of the plurality of individual liquid chambers 40. With this configuration, liquid is supplied from the supply ports 50 to the individual liquid chambers 40 via the common liquid chamber 41, and recovered from the individual liquid chambers 40 to the recovery ports 51 via the common liquid chamber 41.

[0029] As described above, in the first embodiment, a plurality of discharge ports 10, a plurality of individual liquid chambers 40 (individual liquid chambers), a plurality of supply ports 50, and a plurality of recovery ports 51 are arranged in a line direction from one end to the other end of the liquid discharge head 1. In the following description, one end of the liquid discharge head 1 in the line direction will be referred to as the first end, and the other end opposite to the first end will be referred to as the second end. Also, in the following description, among the plurality of individual liquid chambers 40, the individual liquid chamber 40 located at one end in the line direction and closest to the first end of the liquid discharge head 1 will be referred to as the first individual liquid chamber 40a. Similarly, among the plurality of supply ports 50, the supply port 50 located at one end in the line direction and closest to the first end of the liquid discharge head 1 will be referred to as the first supply port 50a. Similarly, among the plurality of recovery ports 51, the recovery port 51 located at one end in the line direction and closest to the first end of the liquid discharge head 1 will be referred to as the first recovery port 51a.

[0030] In the first embodiment, the first supply port 50a and the first recovery port 51a are positioned closer to the first end (outside) than the first individual liquid chamber 40a. Furthermore, the centerline 50aL in the alignment direction of the first supply port 50a and the centerline 51aL in the alignment direction of the first recovery port 51a are each positioned closer to the first end (outside) than the centerline 40aL in the alignment direction of the first individual liquid chamber 40a.

[0031] Figure 5 shows the general configuration of the first comparative example. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the main configuration near the end of the discharge port row 9 of the liquid discharge head 1 according to the first comparative example, and is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship of the main configuration when the liquid discharge substrate 8 is viewed in the Z direction. In the first comparative example, the positional relationship of the first individual liquid chamber 40a and the first supply port 50a and first recovery port 51a is different from that of the first embodiment.

[0032] In the first comparative example, the first individual liquid chamber 40a is positioned closer to the first end (outside) than the first supply port 50a and the first recovery port 51a. In the first comparative example, the common liquid chamber 41 is separated into a portion communicating with the supply port 50 and a portion communicating with the recovery port 51, with multiple individual liquid chambers 40 in between. Furthermore, the end face of the first individual liquid chamber 40a on the first end side is formed to protrude toward the first end side, at least a portion of the end face of the common liquid chamber 41 on the first end side.

[0033] The liquid flow during the recovery operation of the liquid discharge head 1 in the configuration of the first embodiment and the first comparative example will be described. Figures 6(a) and 6(b) are explanatory diagrams of the liquid flow during the recovery operation of the liquid discharge head 1 in the first embodiment and the first comparative example, where the liquid flow 60 is indicated by multiple arrows. Figure 6(a) is a schematic diagram showing the liquid flow 60 in the first comparative example and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Figure 5. Figure 6(b) is a schematic diagram showing the liquid flow 60 in the first embodiment and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Figure 4.

[0034] During recovery operations such as suction recovery using the cap or pre-discharge to drive the recording element, the liquid flows from the supply port 50 and the recovery port 51 to the common liquid chamber 41, and then from the common liquid chamber 41 to the multiple individual liquid chambers 40. The liquid that flows into the individual liquid chambers 40 is then discharged to the outside of the liquid discharge head 1 via the discharge port 10.

[0035] In the first comparative example, as shown in Figure 6(a), liquid flows to the individual liquid chambers 40 located at all ends of the array direction, except for the first individual liquid chamber 40a, through two supply ports 50 and two recovery ports 51. On the other hand, at the ends of the first individual liquid chamber 40a, etc. For the individual liquid chambers 40 located in the central section, liquid is supplied only from the first supply port 50a and the first recovery port 51a. In other words, in the first comparative example, the amount of liquid supplied to the individual liquid chambers 40 at the ends of the discharge port row 9 is less than the amount of liquid supplied to the individual liquid chambers 40 in the central section. This is because the distance between the individual liquid chambers 40 located at the ends and the supply ports 50 other than the first supply port 50a and the recovery ports 51 other than the first recovery port 51a is large.

[0036] During the recovery operation, if the liquid supply is low and insufficient, the recovery performance (the recovery effect of the recovery operation) will be reduced. Furthermore, thickened ink and bubbles tend to occur particularly at the ends of the nozzle row 9 and are easily discharged from the nozzles 10 located at the ends. If the liquid supply to the individual liquid chambers 40 at the ends is insufficient, the recovery effect of the recovery operation will be insufficient, which can cause nozzle clogging at the nozzles 10 at the ends and lead to printing defects in the liquid ejection head 1.

[0037] On the other hand, in the first embodiment, the position of the first individual liquid chamber 40a is on the side (inside) that is further from the first end compared to the first comparative example. Therefore, the distance from the first individual liquid chamber 40a to the second supply port 50b adjacent to the first supply port 50a, and the distance from the first individual liquid chamber 40a to the second recovery port 51b adjacent to the first recovery port 51a are smaller in the first embodiment than in the first comparative example. With this configuration, liquid is supplied to the individual liquid chambers 40 at the end, including the first individual liquid chamber 40a, from multiple supply ports 50 and multiple recovery ports 51, increasing the amount of liquid supplied to the individual liquid chambers 40 at the end compared to the first comparative example, and improving recovery performance. Consequently, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the print quality of the liquid ejection head 1.

[0038] In the first embodiment, the center line 40aL of the first individual liquid chamber 40a is located further from the first end (inward) than the center line 50aL of the first supply port 50a and the center line 51aL of the first recovery port 51a in the direction of arrangement. Furthermore, the distance L1 from center line 40aL to center line 50aL is set to be 1 / 2 or less (half or less) of the distance L2 from center line 50aL to center line 50bL of the second supply port 50b. Also, the distance from center line 40aL to center line 51aL is the same as distance L1, and the distance from center line 51aL to center line 51bL of the second recovery port 51b is the same as distance L2. With this configuration, liquid can be supplied to all individual liquid chambers 40, including the first individual liquid chamber 40a, from two or more supply ports 50 and two or more recovery ports 51, and a sufficient amount of liquid can be supplied to all individual liquid chambers 40. Although the first comparative example is also configured as L1 < 1 / 2 × L2, the center line 40aL is closer to the first end (outside) than the center lines 50aL and 51aL, which may result in insufficient liquid supply.

[0039] In the first embodiment, the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 is 1200 dpi, and the spacing between the supply port 50 and the recovery port 51 is 150 dpi. In other words, the ratio of the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 to the spacing between the supply port 50 (recovery port 51) is 1:8. If the spacing between the supply port 50 and the recovery port 51 is larger than this, the liquid supply efficiency to the individual liquid chambers 40 may decrease. Therefore, when the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 is X1 and the spacing between the supply port 50 and the recovery port 51 is X2, it is preferable that X2 / X1 be 8 or less.

[0040] Up to this point, the configuration of the first end of the liquid discharge head 1 has been described, but it is preferable to configure the second end similarly. In this configuration, the supply port 50 and the recovery port 51 at the second end are positioned closer to the second end (outside) than the individual liquid chambers 40 at the second end. Furthermore, the centerlines of the supply port 50 in the direction of arrangement and the centerlines of the recovery port in the direction of arrangement are each closer to the second end (outside) than the centerlines of the individual liquid chambers in the direction of arrangement.

[0041] [Second Embodiment] Figure 7 shows an overview of the second embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the main configuration near the end of the discharge port row 9 of the liquid discharge head 1 according to the second embodiment, and the liquid discharge substrate 8 This diagram shows the arrangement of the main components when viewed in the Z direction. Hereafter, components in the second embodiment that are the same as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0042] In the second embodiment, the common liquid chamber 41 is separated into a portion communicating with the supply port 50 and a portion communicating with the recovery port 51, with a plurality of individual liquid chambers 40 in between. The inner wall surface 42 of the discharge port forming member 7, extending in the Z direction, constitutes the wall surface of the first individual liquid chamber 40a in addition to the common liquid chamber 41. The inner wall surface 42 includes a first surface 42a, a second surface 42b, and a third surface 42c. The first surface 42a is the end surface on the first end side of the first individual liquid chamber 40a. The second surface 42b is the end surface on the first end side of the common liquid chamber 41, which is formed on the first end side relative to the first surface 42a. The third surface 42c is a connecting surface that extends in the arrangement direction and connects the first surface 42a and the second surface 42b. Thus, in the second embodiment, the inner wall surface 42 has its first surface 42a formed at a position away from the first end (on the second end side) relative to the second surface 42b. Furthermore, the inner wall surface 42 on the recovery port 51 side is configured in the same way as the supply port 50 side. In other words, the inner wall surface 42 on the first end side of the discharge port forming member 7 is formed in a convex shape with its central portion in the X direction protruding towards the second end side.

[0043] In the first embodiment, a common liquid chamber 41 was formed adjacent to the first end of the first individual liquid chamber 40a. Therefore, during recovery operation, some of the liquid supplied from the first supply port 50a and the first recovery port 51a may flow into the common liquid chamber 41 instead of the individual liquid chamber 40. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, since the inner wall surface 42 is formed in a convex shape, a common liquid chamber 41 adjacent to the first individual liquid chamber 40a is not formed, and the amount of liquid flowing into the first individual liquid chamber 40a is more easily ensured. Therefore, from the viewpoint of reducing the amount of liquid flowing to unnecessary parts and ensuring the amount of liquid flowing into the individual liquid chamber 40, it is preferable that the inner wall surface 42 is configured so as not to form unnecessary flow paths, as in the second embodiment.

[0044] [Third Embodiment] Figure 8 shows an overview of the third embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the main configuration near the end of the discharge port row 9 of the liquid discharge head 1 according to the third embodiment, and is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship of the main configuration when the liquid discharge substrate 8 is viewed in the Z direction. Hereinafter, components in the configuration of the third embodiment that are the same as those in the above-described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0045] In the third embodiment, the spacing of the individual liquid chambers 40 differs from that of the first embodiment. In the third embodiment, the individual liquid chambers 40 are arranged in the direction of arrangement at intervals of 600 dpi, and the supply port 50 and the recovery port 51 are each arranged in the direction of arrangement at intervals of 150 dpi.

[0046] In the third embodiment as well, the first supply port 50a and the first recovery port 51a are positioned closer to the first end (outside) than the first individual liquid chamber 40a. Furthermore, the centerline 50aL in the alignment direction of the first supply port 50a and the centerline 51aL in the alignment direction of the first recovery port 51a are each positioned closer to the first end (outside) than the centerline 40aL in the alignment direction of the first individual liquid chamber 40a. In addition, the end of the inner wall surface 42 on the first end side includes the first surface 42a, the second surface 42b, and the third surface 42c, and is formed in a convex shape such that the central part in the X direction protrudes towards the second end side.

[0047] Figure 9 shows the general configuration of the second comparative example. Figure 9 is a diagram showing the main configuration near the end of the discharge port row 9 of the liquid discharge head 1 according to the second comparative example, and is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship of the main configuration when the liquid discharge substrate 8 is viewed in the Z direction. In the second comparative example, the positional relationship between the first individual liquid chamber 40a and the first supply port 50a and first recovery port 51a is different from that of the third embodiment. Specifically, in the second comparative example, the first individual liquid chamber 40a is located closer to the first end (outside) than the first supply port 50a and first recovery port 51a.

[0048] The liquid flow during the recovery operation of the liquid discharge head 1 in the configuration of the third embodiment and the second comparative example will be described. Figures 10(a) and (b) show the liquid discharge heads of the third embodiment and the second comparative example. This is an explanatory diagram of the liquid flow during the recovery operation of 1, where the liquid flow 60 is indicated by multiple arrows. Figure 10(a) is a schematic diagram showing the liquid flow 60 in the second comparative example, and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Figure 9. Figure 10(b) is a schematic diagram showing the liquid flow 60 in the third embodiment, and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Figure 8.

[0049] In the second comparative example, similar to the first comparative example, liquid is supplied only from the first supply port 50a and the first recovery port 51a to the individual liquid chambers 40 located at the ends, such as the first individual liquid chamber 40a. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, the position of the first individual liquid chamber 40a is further away from the first end (inward) compared to the second comparative example. Therefore, the distance from the first individual liquid chamber 40a to the second supply port 50b adjacent to the first supply port 50a, and the distance from the first individual liquid chamber 40a to the second recovery port 51b adjacent to the first recovery port 51a are smaller in the third embodiment than in the second comparative example. With this configuration, liquid is supplied from multiple supply ports 50 and multiple recovery ports 51 to the individual liquid chambers 40 at the ends, including the first individual liquid chamber 40a, increasing the amount of liquid supplied to the individual liquid chambers 40 at the ends compared to the second comparative example, and improving recovery performance. Consequently, a decrease in the print quality of the liquid ejection head 1 can be suppressed.

[0050] Furthermore, in the third embodiment as well, the center line 40aL of the first individual liquid chamber 40a is located further from the first end (inward) than the center line 50aL of the first supply port 50a and the center line 51aL of the first recovery port 51a in the direction of arrangement. The distance L1 from center line 40aL to center line 50aL is set to be 1 / 2 or less (half or less) of the distance L2 from center line 50aL to center line 50bL of the second supply port 50b. In the second comparative example, L1 < 1 / 2 × L2 is also configured, but since the center line 40aL is closer to the first end (outward) than the center line 50aL and center line 51aL, there is a risk of insufficient liquid supply.

[0051] In the third embodiment, the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 is 600 dpi, and the spacing between the supply port 50 and the recovery port 51 is 150 dpi. In other words, the ratio of the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 to the spacing between the supply port 50 (recovery port 51) is 1:4. Also, if the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 is X1 and the spacing between the supply port 50 and the recovery port 51 is X2, then X2 / X1 is 4.

[0052] As described above, according to the configuration of the third embodiment, liquid is supplied to all individual liquid chambers 40, including the first individual liquid chamber 40a, from multiple supply ports 50 and multiple recovery ports 51, ensuring that a sufficient amount of liquid is supplied to all individual liquid chambers 40. Furthermore, since the inner wall surface 42 on the first end side is formed in a convex shape, the amount of liquid flowing to locations other than the individual liquid chambers 40 can be reduced. Consequently, recovery performance during recovery operation can be improved, and a decrease in print quality of the liquid ejection head 1 can be suppressed.

[0053] [Fourth Embodiment] Figure 11 shows an overview of the fourth embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 11 is a diagram showing the main configuration near the end of the discharge port row 9 of the liquid discharge head 1 according to the fourth embodiment, and is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship of the main configuration when the liquid discharge substrate 8 is viewed in the Z direction. Hereinafter, components in the configuration of the fourth embodiment that are the same as those in the above-described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0054] In the fourth embodiment, the spacing of the individual liquid chambers 40, supply port 50, and recovery port 51 differs from that of the first embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, the individual liquid chambers 40 are arranged in the direction of arrangement at intervals of 600 dpi, and the supply port 50 and recovery port 51 are each arranged in the direction of arrangement at intervals of 300 dpi.

[0055] In the fourth embodiment as well, the first supply port 50a and the first recovery port 51a are positioned closer to the first end (outside) than the first individual liquid chamber 40a. Furthermore, the center line 50aL in the alignment direction of the first supply port 50a and the center line 51aL in the alignment direction of the first recovery port 51a are, respectively, the first The individual liquid chambers 40a are located closer to the first end (outside) than the center line 40aL in the arrangement direction. Furthermore, the end of the inner wall surface 42 on the first end side includes the first surface 42a, the second surface 42b, and the third surface 42c, and is formed in a convex shape such that the central part in the X direction protrudes toward the second end side.

[0056] Figure 12 shows the general configuration of the third comparative example. Figure 12 is a diagram showing the main configuration near the end of the discharge port row 9 of the liquid discharge head 1 according to the third comparative example, and is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship of the main configuration when the liquid discharge substrate 8 is viewed in the Z direction. In the third comparative example, the positional relationship between the first individual liquid chamber 40a and the first supply port 50a and first recovery port 51a is different from that of the fourth embodiment. Specifically, in the third comparative example, the first individual liquid chamber 40a is located closer to the first end (outside) than the first supply port 50a and first recovery port 51a.

[0057] The liquid flow during the recovery operation of the liquid discharge head 1 in the configuration of the fourth embodiment and the third comparative example will be described. Figures 13(a) and (b) are explanatory diagrams of the liquid flow during the recovery operation of the liquid discharge head 1 in the fourth embodiment and the third comparative example, where the liquid flow 60 is indicated by multiple arrows. Figure 13(a) is a schematic diagram showing the liquid flow 60 in the third comparative example and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Figure 12. Figure 13(b) is a schematic diagram showing the liquid flow 60 in the fourth embodiment and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Figure 11.

[0058] In the third comparative example, similar to the first comparative example, liquid is supplied only from the first supply port 50a and the first recovery port 51a to the individual liquid chambers 40 located at the ends, such as the first individual liquid chamber 40a. On the other hand, in the fourth embodiment, the position of the first individual liquid chamber 40a is further away from the first end (inward) compared to the third comparative example. Therefore, the distance from the first individual liquid chamber 40a to the second supply port 50b adjacent to the first supply port 50a, and the distance from the first individual liquid chamber 40a to the second recovery port 51b adjacent to the first recovery port 51a are smaller in the fourth embodiment than in the third comparative example. With this configuration, liquid is supplied from multiple supply ports 50 and multiple recovery ports 51 to the individual liquid chambers 40 at the ends, including the first individual liquid chamber 40a, increasing the amount of liquid supplied to the individual liquid chambers 40 at the ends compared to the third comparative example, and improving recovery performance. Consequently, a decrease in the print quality of the liquid ejection head 1 can be suppressed.

[0059] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment as well, the center line 40aL of the first individual liquid chamber 40a is located further from the first end (inward) than the center line 50aL of the first supply port 50a and the center line 51aL of the first recovery port 51a in the arrangement direction. The distance L1 from center line 40aL to center line 50aL is set to be 1 / 2 or less (half or less) of the distance L2 from center line 50aL to center line 50bL of the second supply port 50b. In the third comparative example, L1 < 1 / 2 × L2 is also configured, but since the center line 40aL is closer to the first end (outward) than the center line 50aL and center line 51aL, there is a risk of insufficient liquid supply.

[0060] In the fourth embodiment, the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 is 600 dpi, and the spacing between the supply port 50 and the recovery port 51 is 300 dpi. In other words, the ratio of the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 to the spacing between the supply port 50 (recovery port 51) is 1:2. Also, when the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 is X1 and the spacing between the supply port 50 and the recovery port 51 is X2, then X2 / X1 is 2.

[0061] As described above, according to the configuration of the fourth embodiment, liquid is supplied to all individual liquid chambers 40, including the first individual liquid chamber 40a, from multiple supply ports 50 and multiple recovery ports 51, ensuring that a sufficient amount of liquid is supplied to all individual liquid chambers 40. Furthermore, since the inner wall surface 42 on the first end side is formed in a convex shape, the amount of liquid flowing to locations other than the individual liquid chambers 40 can be reduced. Consequently, recovery performance during recovery operation can be improved, and a decrease in print quality of the liquid ejection head 1 can be suppressed.

[0062] [Fifth Embodiment] Figure 14 shows an overview of the fifth embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 14 is a diagram showing the main configuration near the end of the discharge port row 9 of the liquid discharge head 1 according to the fifth embodiment, and is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship of the main configuration when the liquid discharge substrate 8 is viewed in the Z direction. Hereinafter, components in the configuration of the fifth embodiment that are the same as those in the above-described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0063] The fifth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the arrangement spacing of the individual liquid chambers 40, supply ports 50, and recovery ports 51. In the fifth embodiment, the individual liquid chambers 40 are arranged in the direction of arrangement at intervals of 600 dpi, and the supply ports 50 and recovery ports 51 are each arranged in the direction of arrangement at intervals of 600 dpi.

[0064] In the fifth embodiment as well, the first supply port 50a and the first recovery port 51a are positioned closer to the first end (outside) than the first individual liquid chamber 40a. Furthermore, the centerline 50aL in the alignment direction of the first supply port 50a and the centerline 51aL in the alignment direction of the first recovery port 51a are each positioned closer to the first end (outside) than the centerline 40aL in the alignment direction of the first individual liquid chamber 40a. In addition, the end of the inner wall surface 42 on the first end side includes the first surface 42a, the second surface 42b, and the third surface 42c, and is formed in a convex shape such that the central part in the X direction protrudes toward the second end side.

[0065] Figure 15 shows the general configuration of the fourth comparative example. Figure 15 is a diagram showing the main configuration near the end of the discharge port row 9 of the liquid discharge head 1 according to the fourth comparative example, and is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship of the main configuration when the liquid discharge substrate 8 is viewed in the Z direction. In the fourth comparative example, the positional relationship of the first individual liquid chamber 40a and the first supply port 50a and first recovery port 51a is different from that of the fifth embodiment. Specifically, in the fourth comparative example, the first individual liquid chamber 40a, the first supply port 50a and the first recovery port 51a are arranged in approximately the same position in the arrangement direction.

[0066] The liquid flow during the recovery operation of the liquid discharge head 1 in the configuration of the fifth embodiment and the fourth comparative example will be described. Figures 16(a) and (b) are explanatory diagrams of the liquid flow during the recovery operation of the liquid discharge head 1 in the fifth embodiment and the fourth comparative example, where the liquid flow 60 is indicated by multiple arrows. Figure 16(a) is a schematic diagram showing the liquid flow 60 in the fourth comparative example and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Figure 15. Figure 16(b) is a schematic diagram showing the liquid flow 60 in the fourth embodiment and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Figure 14.

[0067] In the fourth comparative example, liquid is supplied to all individual liquid chambers 40, including the first individual liquid chamber 40a, from only one first supply port 50a and one first recovery port 51a. On the other hand, in the fifth embodiment, the position of the first individual liquid chamber 40a is on the side (inside) away from the first end compared to the fourth comparative example. Therefore, the distance from the first individual liquid chamber 40a to the second supply port 50b adjacent to the first supply port 50a, and the distance from the first individual liquid chamber 40a to the second recovery port 51b adjacent to the first recovery port 51a are smaller in the fifth embodiment than in the fourth comparative example. With this configuration, liquid is supplied to the end individual liquid chambers 40, including the first individual liquid chamber 40a, from multiple supply ports 50 and multiple recovery ports 51, increasing the amount of liquid supplied to the end individual liquid chambers 40 compared to the third comparative example, and improving recovery performance. Consequently, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the print quality of the liquid ejection head 1.

[0068] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment as well, the center line 40aL of the first individual liquid chamber 40a is located further from the first end (inward) than the center line 50aL of the first supply port 50a and the center line 51aL of the first recovery port 51a in the direction of arrangement. The distance L1 from center line 40aL to center line 50aL is set to be 1 / 2 or less (half or less) of the distance L2 from center line 50aL to center line 50bL of the second supply port 50b. In the fourth comparative example, L1 < 1 / 2 × L2 is also configured, but since the center line 40aL is located at approximately the same position as the center line 50aL and center line 51aL in the direction of arrangement, there is a risk of insufficient liquid supply.

[0069] In the fourth comparative example, as shown in Figure 16(a), one supply port 50 and one recovery port 51 correspond to one individual liquid chamber 40 and are provided at approximately the same position in the arrangement direction. However, in this configuration, if dirt or foam accumulates in the supply port 50 or recovery port 51, the circulation of liquid through the corresponding individual liquid chamber 40 may be hindered. On the other hand, in the fifth embodiment, as shown in Figure 16(b), liquid is supplied to one individual liquid chamber 40 from two supply ports 50 and two recovery ports 51. Therefore, even if either of the two supply ports 50 or either of the two recovery ports 51 experiences poor circulation, liquid is reliably supplied to the individual liquid chamber 40. Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the number of supply ports 50 and recovery ports 51 is one more than the number of individual liquid chambers 40, and two supply ports 50 and recovery ports 51 are also arranged correspondingly in the individual liquid chamber 40 at the furthest end of the second end opposite the first end.

[0070] In the fifth embodiment, the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 is 600 dpi, and the spacing between the supply ports 50 and the recovery ports 51 is also 600 dpi. In other words, the ratio of the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 to the spacing between the supply ports 50 (recovery ports 51) is 1:1. Even if the spacing between the supply ports 50 and the recovery ports 51 is reduced, the number of supply ports 50 and recovery ports 51 will be excessive relative to the number of individual liquid chambers 40, making it difficult to increase the liquid supply amount. Also, if the number of supply ports 50 and recovery ports 51 is large, it becomes difficult to cover all the wiring that supplies power to each recording element 20, which necessitates increasing the size of the recording element substrate 6 and can lead to increased costs. Therefore, when the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 is X1 and the spacing between the supply ports 50 and the recovery ports 51 is X2, it is preferable that X2 / X1 be 1 or more. Also, as described in the description of the first embodiment, it is preferable that X2 / X1 be 8 or less. In other words, it is preferable that the ratio of the spacing between the individual liquid chambers 40 to the spacing between the supply ports 50 (recovery ports 51) be set within the range of 1:1 to 1:8.

[0071] As described above, according to the configuration of the fifth embodiment, liquid is supplied to all individual liquid chambers 40, including the first individual liquid chamber 40a, from multiple supply ports 50 and multiple recovery ports 51, ensuring that a sufficient amount of liquid is supplied to all individual liquid chambers 40. Furthermore, since the inner wall surface 42 on the first end side is formed in a convex shape, the amount of liquid flowing to locations other than the individual liquid chambers 40 can be reduced. Consequently, recovery performance during recovery operation can be improved, and a decrease in print quality of the liquid ejection head 1 can be suppressed.

[0072] This embodiment includes the following configuration. (Composition 1) A liquid dispensing head for dispensing liquid toward a recording medium, A plurality of outlets for discharging liquid, wherein the plurality of outlets are arranged in a predetermined direction, A plurality of individual liquid chambers are provided corresponding to each of the plurality of discharge ports and communicating with the discharge port, An energy generating element is provided in each of the plurality of individual liquid chambers, which generates energy to discharge liquid from the discharge port, A common liquid chamber that communicates with the aforementioned multiple individual liquid chambers, A supply port that communicates with the common liquid chamber and supplies liquid to the individual liquid chambers via the common liquid chamber, Equipped with, A liquid dispensing head characterized in that, in the aforementioned arrangement direction, one end of the liquid dispensing head is designated as the first end and the other end as the second end, and the individual liquid chamber closest to the first end among the plurality of individual liquid chambers is designated as the first individual liquid chamber, the supply port is positioned closer to the first end than the first individual liquid chamber. (Configuration 2) A first surface which is the end face on the first end side of the wall surface of the first individual liquid chamber, and a second surface which is the end face on the first end side of the wall surface of the common liquid chamber, wherein the first end side of the wall surface is relative to the first surface The liquid discharge head according to configuration 1, further comprising a discharge port forming member having an inner wall surface including a formed second surface and a third surface connecting the first surface and the second surface, wherein the discharge port is formed. (Composition 3) The liquid discharge head according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the center line of the first individual liquid chamber in the arrangement direction is located further from the first end than the center line of the supply port in the arrangement direction. (Composition 4) The system comprises a plurality of supply ports arranged in the direction of the arrangement, A liquid discharge head according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, characterized in that, when, among a plurality of supply ports, the supply port closest to the first end is designated as the first supply port, and the supply port adjacent to the first supply port is designated as the second supply port, the distance from the center line in the arrangement direction of the first individual liquid chamber to the center in the arrangement direction of the first supply port is 1 / 2 or less of the distance from the center line in the arrangement direction of the first supply port to the center in the arrangement direction of the second supply port. (Composition 5) The system comprises a plurality of supply ports arranged in the direction of the arrangement, The discharge port and the supply port are each arranged at a constant spacing in the direction of arrangement. A liquid dispensing head according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, characterized in that the ratio of the spacing between the supply ports in the arrangement direction to the spacing between the supply ports in the arrangement direction is within the range of 1:1 to 1:8. (Composition 6) In a direction intersecting the aforementioned arrangement direction, a recovery port is provided on the opposite side of the supply port from the individual liquid chambers, and further comprises a recovery port for recovering liquid from the individual liquid chambers via the common liquid chamber during recording operations by the liquid discharge head. The liquid discharge head according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that the recovery port is located closer to the first end than the first individual liquid chamber. (Composition 7) The collection ports are arranged in the aforementioned arrangement direction, The discharge port and the recovery port are each arranged at a constant spacing in the direction of arrangement. The liquid discharge head according to configuration 6, characterized in that the ratio of the spacing between the collection ports in the arrangement direction to the spacing between the supply ports in the arrangement direction is within the range of 1:1 to 1:8. (Composition 8) The system comprises a plurality of supply ports arranged in the direction of the arrangement, A liquid discharge head according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that, in the aforementioned arrangement direction, the supply port at the second end is positioned closer to the second end than the individual liquid chamber at the second end.

[0073] 1…Liquid dispensing head, 10…Dispensing port, 20…Energy generating element, 40…Individual liquid chamber, 40a…First individual liquid chamber, 41…Common liquid chamber

Claims

1. A liquid dispensing head for dispensing liquid toward a recording medium, A plurality of outlets for discharging liquid, wherein the plurality of outlets are arranged in a predetermined direction, A plurality of individual liquid chambers are provided corresponding to each of the plurality of discharge ports and communicating with the discharge port, An energy generating element is provided in each of the plurality of individual liquid chambers, which generates energy to discharge liquid from the discharge port, A common liquid chamber that communicates with the aforementioned multiple individual liquid chambers, A supply port that communicates with the common liquid chamber and supplies liquid to the individual liquid chambers via the common liquid chamber, Equipped with, A liquid dispensing head characterized in that, in the aforementioned arrangement direction, one end of the liquid dispensing head is designated as the first end and the other end as the second end, and the individual liquid chamber closest to the first end among the plurality of individual liquid chambers is designated as the first individual liquid chamber, the supply port is positioned closer to the first end than the first individual liquid chamber.

2. The liquid discharge head according to claim 1, further comprising an inner wall surface having a first surface which is the end surface on the first end side of the wall surface of the first individual liquid chamber, a second surface which is the end surface on the first end side of the wall surface of the common liquid chamber and is formed on the first end side with respect to the first surface, and a third surface which connects the first surface and the second surface, and a discharge port forming member on which the discharge port is formed.

3. The liquid discharge head according to claim 1, characterized in that the center line of the first individual liquid chamber in the direction of arrangement is located further from the first end than the center line of the supply port in the direction of arrangement.

4. The system comprises a plurality of supply ports arranged in the direction of the arrangement, The liquid discharge head according to claim 1, characterized in that, when, among the plurality of supply ports, the supply port closest to the first end is designated as the first supply port, and the supply port adjacent to the first supply port is designated as the second supply port, the distance from the center line in the arrangement direction of the first individual liquid chamber to the center in the arrangement direction of the first supply port is 1 / 2 or less of the distance from the center line in the arrangement direction of the first supply port to the center in the arrangement direction of the second supply port.

5. The system comprises a plurality of supply ports arranged in the direction of the arrangement, The discharge port and the supply port are each arranged at a constant spacing in the direction of arrangement. The liquid discharge head according to claim 1, characterized in that the ratio of the spacing between the supply ports in the arrangement direction to the spacing between the supply ports in the arrangement direction is within the range of 1:1 to 1:

8.

6. In a direction intersecting the aforementioned arrangement direction, a recovery port is provided on the opposite side of the supply port from the individual liquid chambers, and further comprises a recovery port for recovering liquid from the individual liquid chambers via the common liquid chamber during recording operations by the liquid discharge head. The liquid discharge head according to claim 1, characterized in that the recovery port is located closer to the first end than the first individual liquid chamber.

7. The collection ports are arranged in the aforementioned arrangement direction, The discharge port and the recovery port are each arranged at a constant spacing in the direction of arrangement. The ratio of the spacing between the collection ports in the arrangement direction to the spacing between the supply ports in the arrangement direction is The liquid dispensing head according to claim 6, characterized in that the ratio is within the range of 1:1 to 1:

8.

8. The system comprises a plurality of supply ports arranged in the direction of the arrangement, The liquid discharge head according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the aforementioned arrangement direction, the supply port at the second end is positioned closer to the second end than the individual liquid chamber at the second end.

Images