Liquid dispensing device

Abstract

To provide a liquid dispensing device that allows for easy replacement of the filter unit. [Solution] The system comprises a liquid discharge head 12, a supply channel 19, a filter unit 21 provided in the supply channel 19, and a mounting section 22 to which the filter unit 21 is attached. The filter unit 21 has a filter 28, a first inlet 25 for introducing liquid into the filter unit 21, and a first outlet 30 for discharging liquid from the filter unit 21. The mounting section 22 has a second outlet 33 and a second inlet 34. The second inlet 34 has a second inlet, and the second outlet 33 has a second outlet opening facing the same direction as the second inlet, and a second outlet valve that can open and close the second outlet. The second outlet valve moves to an open position when the filter unit 21 is attached to the mounting section 22 and moves to a closed position when the filter unit 21 is removed from the mounting section 22.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid ejecting apparatus such as a printer.

Background Art

[0002] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is a recording apparatus which is an example of a liquid ejecting apparatus that performs recording by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, from a recording head which is an example of a liquid ejecting head. The recording apparatus includes a supply tube which is an example of a supply flow path, a filter unit, and a plurality of valves.

[0003] The supply tube forms a path for ink to be supplied to the recording head. The filter unit is detachably provided to the supply tube. The valves are respectively provided on an upstream side of the filter unit and a downstream side of the filter unit.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] After a user performs an operation to close the upstream valve and the downstream valve respectively, the user removes the filter unit from the supply tube and replaces it. Therefore, there is room for improvement in the detachability of the filter unit.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] A liquid dispensing device that solves the above problems comprises a liquid dispensing head capable of dispensing liquid, a supply channel for supplying liquid to the liquid dispensing head, a filter unit provided in the supply channel, and a mounting part to which the filter unit is detachably attached. The filter unit has a filter for collecting foreign matter, a first inlet for introducing liquid into the filter unit, and a first outlet for dispensing liquid from the filter unit. The mounting part has a second outlet to which the first inlet is connected, and a second inlet to which the first outlet is connected. The second inlet has a second inlet, and the second outlet has a second outlet opening facing the same direction as the second inlet, and a second outlet valve capable of opening and closing the second outlet. The second outlet valve moves to an open position when the filter unit is mounted on the mounting part and moves to a closed position when the filter unit is removed from the mounting part. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a liquid dispensing device. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter unit and mounting section before installation. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter unit and mounting section during installation. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter unit and mounting section during installation. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter unit and mounting section in the installed state. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the liquid dispensing device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] [First Embodiment] The first embodiment of the liquid dispensing device will be described below with reference to the drawings. The liquid dispensing device is, for example, an inkjet printer that prints by dispensing ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper.

[0009] In the drawings, the direction of gravity is indicated by the Z-axis, assuming the liquid dispensing device 11 is placed on a horizontal plane, and the directions along the horizontal plane are indicated by the X-axis and Y-axis. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. In the following explanation, the direction parallel to the Z-axis is also referred to as the vertical direction Z.

[0010] <Liquid discharge device> As shown in Figure 1, the liquid dispensing device 11 comprises a liquid dispensing head 12 and a liquid supply device 13.

[0011] The liquid dispensing head 12 is capable of dispensing liquid. The liquid dispensing head 12 has one or more nozzles 15. The liquid dispensing head 12 dispenses liquid from the nozzles 15 and prints on a medium (not shown).

[0012] <Liquid supply device> The liquid dispensing device 11 may include multiple liquid supply devices 13. Since the multiple liquid supply devices 13 each have the same configuration, Figure 1 shows only one liquid supply device 13.

[0013] The liquid supply device 13 can be connected to the liquid discharge head 12. The liquid supply device 13 supplies liquid from the liquid container 17 to the liquid discharge head 12. Multiple liquid supply devices 13 are each connected to a different liquid container 17. Each of the multiple liquid containers 17 may contain different types of liquid. Different types of liquids are, for example, inks of different colors. Multiple liquid supply devices 13 supply multiple types of liquid to the liquid discharge head 12.

[0014] The liquid supply device 13 may include a supply channel 19, a supply pump 20, a filter unit 21, a mounting section 22, and a pressure adjustment mechanism 23. An upstream end of the supply channel 19 is connected to the liquid container 17. A downstream end of the supply channel 19 is connected to the liquid discharge head 12. The supply channel 19 supplies liquid to the liquid discharge head 12. The liquid flows through the supply channel 19 in the supply direction Ds.

[0015] The supply pump 20 applies negative pressure to the liquid contained in the liquid container 17. The supply pump 20 draws the liquid out from the liquid container 17 to the supply channel 19. The supply pump 20 pressurizes the drawn-out liquid to supply it to the liquid discharge head 12.

[0016] The pressure adjustment mechanism 23 is capable of adjusting the pressure inside the liquid discharge head 12. The pressure adjustment mechanism 23 is provided in the supply channel 19 between the mounting portion 22 and the liquid discharge head 12. The pressure adjustment mechanism 23 stabilizes the pressure of the liquid supplied to the nozzles 15 by adjusting the pressure of the pressurized and supplied liquid. The pressure adjustment mechanism 23 adjusts the pressure of the liquid inside the liquid discharge head 12 to a pressure at which a meniscus is formed at the nozzles 15. The pressure adjustment mechanism 23 opens the supply channel 19 when the pressure on the downstream side falls below a predetermined pressure. For example, when liquid is discharged from the nozzles 15 or liquid is drained from the nozzles 15, the amount of liquid in the liquid discharge head 12 decreases, causing the liquid pressure to drop. When the negative pressure on the downstream side increases, the pressure adjustment mechanism 23 opens the supply channel 19 to supply liquid to the liquid discharge head 12.

[0017] The filter unit 21 is provided in the supply channel 19. The filter unit 21 may include a first introduction portion 25, an introduction channel 26, a filter chamber 27, a filter 28, a discharge channel 29, and a first discharge portion 30.

[0018] The filter chamber 27 accommodates the filter 28. The filter 28 divides the filter chamber 27 into a front chamber and a rear chamber. That is, the filter chamber 27 has the front chamber and the rear chamber. The filter 28 is for collecting foreign matter. The filter 28 may be a porous body, a non-woven fabric, or the like. The filter 28 of the present embodiment is sheet-shaped. The filter 28 may be cylindrical.

[0019] The introduction flow path 26 connects the first introduction portion 25 and the filter chamber 27. The introduction flow path 26 sends the liquid introduced from the first introduction portion 25 to the filter chamber 27. Specifically, the introduction flow path 26 sends the liquid to the front compartment defined by the filter 28.

[0020] The discharge flow path 29 connects the filter chamber 27 and the first discharge portion 30. The discharge flow path 29 is connected to the rear compartment defined by the filter 28. The discharge flow path 29 sends the liquid that has passed through the filter 28 to the first discharge portion 30.

[0021] The mounting portion 22 is configured to have the filter unit 21 detachably mounted thereon. The mounting portion 22 may include a case portion 32, a second discharge portion 33, and a second introduction portion 34. The case portion 32 can accommodate the filter unit 21. One case portion 32 may be provided for a plurality of liquid supply apparatuses 13. The case portion 32 may be capable of accommodating a plurality of filter units 21. Each of the filter units 21 may be individually detachable. The filter unit 21 is separated from the case portion 32 by moving in the removal direction D1. The filter unit 21 is accommodated in the case portion 32 by moving in the mounting direction D2. The mounting direction D2 is a direction opposite to the removal direction D1. In the present embodiment, the mounting direction D2 and the removal direction D1 are directions parallel to the Y-axis.

[0022] <First Introduction Portion> As shown in Fig. 1, when the filter unit 21 is mounted on the mounting portion 22, the first introduction portion 25 is located ahead of the second discharge portion 33 in the removal direction D1. The first introduction portion 25 is connected to the second discharge portion 33. The first introduction portion 25 introduces liquid into the filter unit 21.

[0023] As shown in Fig. 2, the first introduction portion 25 may include a first introduction port 36, a first introduction valve seat 37, a first introduction spring 38, and a first introduction valve 39. The first inlet 36 may be provided on the first inlet valve seat 37. The first inlet valve seat 37 has the first inlet 36 in the center. The first inlet valve seat 37 may be a ring-shaped elastic member. The first inlet valve seat 37 exposes a part of the first inlet valve 39.

[0024] The first introduction spring 38 pushes the first introduction valve 39 in the mounting direction D2. The first introduction spring 38 closes the first inlet 36 by pressing the first introduction valve 39 against the first introduction valve seat 37. The first introduction valve 39 is movable between a closed position shown in Figure 2, which closes the first inlet 36, and an open position shown in Figure 5, which opens the first inlet 36. The first introduction valve 39 can open and close the first inlet 36.

[0025] <First derived part> As shown in Figure 1, when the filter unit 21 is mounted on the mounting section 22, the first outlet section 30 is located ahead of the second inlet section 34 in the removal direction D1. The first outlet section 30 is connected to the second inlet section 34. The first outlet section 30 discharges liquid from the filter unit 21. The first outlet section 30 may be located above the first inlet section 25 in the vertical direction Z.

[0026] As shown in Figure 2, the first outlet section 30 may include a first outlet 41, a first outlet valve seat 42, a first outlet spring 43, and a first outlet valve 44. The first outlet 41 may be provided on the first outlet valve seat 42. The first outlet valve seat 42 has the first outlet 41 in the center. The first outlet valve seat 42 may be a ring-shaped elastic member. The first outlet valve seat 42 exposes a portion of the first outlet valve 44.

[0027] The first outlet spring 43 pushes the first outlet valve 44 in the mounting direction D2. The first outlet spring 43 closes the first outlet 41 by pressing the first outlet valve 44 against the first outlet valve seat 42. The first outlet valve 44 is movable between a closed position shown in Figure 2, which closes the first outlet 41, and an open position shown in Figure 5, which opens the first outlet 41. The first outlet valve 44 can open and close the first outlet 41.

[0028] <Second derived part> The second outlet section 33 may include a first pressing section 46, a second outlet 47, a second outlet valve 48, a second outlet valve seat 49, and a second outlet spring 50.

[0029] The first pressing portion 46 may be cylindrical. The first pressing portion 46 extends in the removal direction D1. The diameter of the tip portion of the first pressing portion 46 is larger than the diameter of the first inlet 36. The second outlet valve 48 may have an outlet shaft portion 52 and an outlet seal portion 53. The outlet shaft portion 52 extends in the removal direction D1 within the first pressing portion 46. The diameter of the tip portion of the outlet shaft portion 52 is smaller than the diameter of the first inlet 36. The outlet seal portion 53 is provided on the base end side of the outlet shaft portion 52. The outlet seal portion 53 is elastic.

[0030] The second outlet valve seat 49 has a second outlet 47. The second outlet spring 50 pushes the second outlet valve 48 in the removal direction D1. The force with which the second outlet spring 50 pushes the second outlet valve 48 is weaker than the force with which the first introduction spring 38 pushes the first introduction valve 39. The second outlet spring 50 pushes the second outlet valve 48, pressing the outlet seal portion 53 against the second outlet valve seat 49, thereby closing the second outlet 47. The second outlet valve 48 is movable between a closed position shown in Figure 2, which closes the second outlet 47, and an open position shown in Figure 5, which opens the second outlet 47. The second outlet valve 48 can open and close the second outlet 47. When the second outlet valve 48 is closing the second outlet 47, the tip of the outlet shaft portion 52 protrudes in the removal direction D1 from the tip of the first pressing portion 46.

[0031] <Second introduction> The second introduction section 34 may include a second pressing section 55, a second inlet 56, a second introduction valve 57, a second introduction valve seat 58, and a second introduction spring 59. The second inlet 56 opens facing the same direction as the second outlet 47. The second inlet 56 and the second outlet 47 open facing the removal direction D1. The second introduction section 34 and the second outlet 33 may be located at the same position in the removal direction D1.

[0032] The second pressing portion 55 may be cylindrical. The second pressing portion 55 extends in the removal direction D1. The diameter of the tip portion of the second pressing portion 55 is larger than the diameter of the first outlet 41. The second introduction valve 57 may have an introduction shaft portion 61 and an introduction seal portion 62. The introduction shaft portion 61 extends within the second pressing portion 55 in the removal direction D1. The diameter of the tip portion of the introduction shaft portion 61 is smaller than the diameter of the first outlet 41. The introduction seal portion 62 is provided on the base end side of the introduction shaft portion 61. The introduction seal portion 62 is elastic.

[0033] The second inlet valve seat 58 has a second inlet port 56. The second introduction spring 59 pushes the second introduction valve 57 in the outward direction D1. The force with which the second introduction spring 59 pushes the second introduction valve 57 is weaker than the force with which the first outlet spring 43 pushes the first outlet valve 44. The second introduction spring 59 pushes the second introduction valve 57, pressing the introduction seal portion 62 against the second introduction valve seat 58, thereby closing the second inlet 56. The second introduction valve 57 is movable between a closed position shown in Figure 2, which closes the second inlet 56, and an open position shown in Figure 5, which opens the second inlet 56. The second introduction valve 57 can open and close the second inlet 56. When the second introduction valve 57 is closing the second inlet 56, the tip of the introduction shaft portion 61 protrudes outward in the outward direction D1 from the tip of the second pressing portion 55.

[0034] <Operation of the First Embodiment> The operation of this embodiment will now be described. As shown in Figures 2 to 5, when attaching the filter unit 21 to the mounting section 22, the worker aligns the first inlet 25 with the second outlet 33 and the first outlet 30 with the second inlet 34. The worker attaches the filter unit 21 to the mounting section 22 by moving the filter unit 21 in the mounting direction D2. As the filter unit 21 is attached, the first inlet 25 is connected to the second outlet 33 and the first outlet 30 is connected to the second inlet 34.

[0035] As shown in Figure 3, when the filter unit 21 moves in the mounting direction D2, the first introduction valve seat 37 contacts the tip of the first pressing portion 46, thereby sealing the inside of the first pressing portion 46. When the filter unit 21 moves in the mounting direction D2, the first outlet valve seat 42 contacts the tip of the second pressing portion 55, thereby sealing the inside of the second pressing portion 55.

[0036] As shown in Figure 4, when the filter unit 21 moves further in the mounting direction D2, the first inlet 36 is pushed open by the first pressing part 46. The first inlet valve 39 strikes the second outlet valve 48. Since the first inlet spring 38 is stronger than the second outlet spring 50, the first inlet valve 39 pushes the second outlet valve 48 in the mounting direction D2, moving the second outlet valve 48 to the open position. That is, when the filter unit 21 is mounted on the mounting part 22, the second outlet valve 48 is pushed by the first inlet valve 39 and moves to the open position. The second outlet valve 48 moves to the open position as the filter unit 21 is mounted on the mounting part 22. When the filter unit 21 moves in the mounting direction D2, the second outlet valve 48 moves in the mounting direction D2 and is in the open position.

[0037] Similar to the first inlet 25, the first outlet 30 has its first outlet 41 pushed open by the second pressing part 55. The first outlet valve 44 strikes the second inlet valve 57. Since the first outlet spring 43 is stronger than the second inlet spring 59, the first outlet valve 44 pushes the second inlet valve 57 in the mounting direction D2, moving the second inlet valve 57 to the open position. That is, when the filter unit 21 is mounted on the mounting part 22, the second inlet valve 57 is pushed by the first outlet valve 44 and moves to the open position. The second inlet valve 57 moves to the open position as the filter unit 21 is mounted on the mounting part 22. When the filter unit 21 moves in the mounting direction D2, the second inlet valve 57 moves in the mounting direction D2 and is in the open position.

[0038] As shown in Figure 5, when the filter unit 21 moves further in the mounting direction D2, the first inlet valve 39 is pressed against the first pressing portion 46 and its movement is restricted. In other words, the first pressing portion 46 holds the first inlet valve 39 in place, separating it from the first inlet valve seat 37. The first pressing portion 46 moves the first inlet valve 39 relative to the first inlet valve seat 37 in the removal direction D1. The first pressing portion 46 moves the first inlet valve 39 to the open position. Therefore, when the filter unit 21 is mounted on the mounting portion 22, the first inlet valve 39 is pushed by the first pressing portion 46 and moves to the open position. The first inlet valve 39 moves to the open position as the filter unit 21 is mounted on the mounting portion 22.

[0039] Similar to the first introduction section 25, the movement of the first outlet section 30 is restricted when the first outlet valve 44 comes into contact with the second pressing section 55. In other words, the second pressing section 55 holds the first outlet valve 44 in place, separating it from the first outlet valve seat 42. The second pressing section 55 moves the first outlet valve 44 relative to the first outlet valve seat 42 in the removal direction D1. The second pressing section 55 moves the first outlet valve 44 to the open position. Therefore, when the filter unit 21 is mounted on the mounting section 22, the first outlet valve 44 is pushed by the second pressing section 55 and moves to the open position. The first outlet valve 44 moves to the open position as the filter unit 21 is mounted on the mounting section 22.

[0040] When the filter unit 21 is mounted on the mounting section 22, the first inlet section 25 and the second outlet section 33 are sealed in the order of the first pressing section 46, the second outlet 47 being opened, and the first inlet 36 being opened. Since the first pressing section 46 is sealed before the second outlet 47 is opened, the risk of liquid leakage from the supply pump 20 is reduced.

[0041] Similarly, the first outlet 30 and the second inlet 34 are sealed in the order of the second pressing section 55, the second inlet 56 being opened, and the first outlet 41 being opened. Since the second pressing section 55 is sealed before the second inlet 56 is opened, the risk of liquid leaking from the supply channel 19 downstream of the filter unit 21 is reduced.

[0042] When the filter unit 21 is installed, the second outlet valve 48, the first inlet valve 39, the first outlet valve 44, and the second inlet valve 57 are in the open position. As a result, the liquid supplied under pressure by the supply pump 20 is sent to the liquid discharge head 12 via the filter unit 21.

[0043] To remove the filter unit 21 from the mounting section 22, the worker moves the filter unit 21 in the removal direction D1. As shown in Figure 4, when the filter unit 21 moves in the removal direction D1, the first inlet valve seat 37, which is moving in the removal direction D1, comes into contact with the first inlet valve 39, which is being pressed by the first inlet spring 38. That is, the first inlet valve 39 moves relative to the first inlet valve seat 37 and moves to the closed position. The first inlet valve 39 moves to the closed position as the filter unit 21 is removed from the mounting part 22.

[0044] Similar to the first introduction section 25, the first outlet section 30 is struck by the first outlet valve seat 42, which moves the first outlet valve 44, which is being pushed by the first outlet spring 43, in the removal direction D1. That is, the first outlet valve 44 moves relative to the first outlet valve seat 42 and moves to the closed position. The first outlet valve 44 moves to the closed position as the filter unit 21 is removed from the mounting section 22.

[0045] As shown in Figure 3, when the filter unit 21 moves further in the removal direction D1, the second outlet valve 48 is pushed by the second outlet spring 50 and moves in the removal direction D1. When the filter unit 21 moves in the removal direction D1, the second outlet valve 48 moves in the removal direction D1 and is in the closed position. The second outlet valve 48 moves to the closed position as the filter unit 21 is removed from the mounting part 22.

[0046] Similar to the second outlet section 33, the second inlet section 34 moves in the removal direction D1 as the second inlet valve 57 is pushed by the second inlet spring 59. When the filter unit 21 moves in the removal direction D1, the second inlet valve 57 moves in the removal direction D1 and is in the closed position. The second inlet valve 57 moves to the closed position as the filter unit 21 is removed from the mounting section 22.

[0047] When the filter unit 21 is removed from the mounting section 22, the first inlet section 25 and the second outlet section 33 are closed in the order of the first inlet 36, the second outlet 47, and the first pressing section 46. Similarly, the first outlet section 30 and the second inlet section 34 are closed in the order of the first outlet 41, the second inlet 56, and the second pressing section 55.

[0048] When the filter unit 21 is removed, the second outlet valve 48, the first inlet valve 39, the first outlet valve 44, and the second inlet valve 57 are in the closed position. As a result, the liquid in the supply channel 19 is maintained under pressure. The filter unit 21 is capable of holding liquid inside.

[0049] <Effects of the First Embodiment> The effects of this embodiment will now be explained. (1-1) The second outlet 47 opens in the same direction as the second inlet 56. Therefore, the direction in which the second outlet 33 and the first inlet 25 are attached and detached can be aligned with the direction in which the second inlet 34 and the first outlet 30 are attached and detached. In other words, by moving the filter unit 21, the connection status of the second outlet 33 and the first inlet 25, and the connection status of the second inlet 34 and the first outlet 30 can be easily changed. The second outlet valve 48 opens and closes the second outlet 47 in conjunction with the attachment and detachment of the filter unit 21. Therefore, the filter unit 21 can be replaced more easily than when an operator has to open and close the valve.

[0050] (1-2) The first inlet valve 39 moves to the closed position as the filter unit 21 is removed. Therefore, the risk of liquid leaking from the removed filter unit 21 can be reduced.

[0051] (1-3) When the filter unit 21 is installed, the first inlet valve 39 moves the second outlet valve 48 to the open position and is also pushed by the first pressing part 46 to the open position. Therefore, the filter unit 21 can be installed smoothly while suppressing liquid leakage.

[0052] (1-4) When the filter unit 21 moves, the second outlet valve 48 moves in the same direction as the filter unit 21. Therefore, the second outlet valve 48 can be smoothly opened and closed in accordance with the movement of the filter unit 21.

[0053] (1-5) The first inlet 25 and first outlet 30 of the filter unit 21 are located beyond the second outlet 33 and second inlet 34 of the mounting unit 22 in the removal direction D1. Therefore, by moving the filter unit 21 mounted on the mounting unit 22 in the removal direction D1, the first inlet 25 and first outlet 30 can be easily separated from the second outlet 33 and second inlet 34.

[0054] (1-6) The filter unit 21 housed in the case 32 moves away from the case 32 by moving in the removal direction D1. The filter unit 21 is housed in the case 32 by moving in the mounting direction D2, which is opposite to the removal direction D1. Therefore, compared to a case where the filter unit 21 moves in one direction and then moves in another direction to separate from the case 32, for example, the attachment and detachment of the filter unit 21 can be done with a simple operation.

[0055] (1-7) The multiple filter units 21 housed in the case section 32 are individually detachable. Therefore, for example, it is possible to select and replace the filter unit 21 that needs replacing.

[0056] (1-8) The second inlet valve 57 moves to the closed position as the filter unit 21 is removed. Therefore, the risk of liquid leaking from the supply channel 19 after the filter unit 21 has been removed can be reduced.

[0057] (1-9) The first outlet valve 44 moves to the closed position as the filter unit 21 is removed. Therefore, the risk of liquid leaking from the removed filter unit 21 can be reduced.

[0058] (1-10) When the filter unit 21 is installed, the first outlet valve 44 moves the second inlet valve 57 to the open position and is also pushed by the second pressing part 55 to the open position. Therefore, the filter unit 21 can be installed smoothly while suppressing liquid leakage.

[0059] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the liquid dispensing device will be described with reference to the figures. In this second embodiment, the configuration of the mounting section and the filter unit differs from that of the first embodiment. In other respects, it is almost the same as the first embodiment, so the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0060] As shown in Figure 6, the liquid dispensing device 11 may include a carriage 64. The carriage 64 supports and moves the liquid dispensing head 12. In the vertical Z direction, the liquid dispensing head 12 may be located below the carriage 64. The carriage 64 may reciprocate the liquid dispensing head 12 along the X axis. The liquid dispensing head 12 may print on the medium by dispensing liquid while moving.

[0061] The mounting portion 22 may be provided on the carriage 64. In the vertical direction Z, the mounting portion 22 may be provided on the carriage 64. In this embodiment, the mounting direction D2 is the same direction as the vertical direction Z. The mounting direction D2 and the removal direction D1 are different directions from the direction of movement of the carriage 64.

[0062] The filter unit 21 may include a pressure regulating mechanism 23. The pressure regulating mechanism 23 is located downstream of the filter 28 in the liquid supply direction Ds. The pressure regulating mechanism 23 is provided in the outlet channel 29.

[0063] The first inlet 25 and the first outlet 30 may be located at different positions in the removal direction D1. The first inlet 25 may be located above the first outlet 30 in the vertical direction Z. The first inlet 25 may be located above the filter 28. The first outlet 30 may be located downstream of the filter 28.

[0064] The second outlet section 33 and the second inlet section 34 may be located at different positions in the removal direction D1. The second outlet section 33 may be located above the second inlet section 34 in the vertical direction Z. The second outlet section 33 may be located above the pressure adjustment mechanism 23. The second inlet section 34 may be located below the pressure adjustment mechanism 23.

[0065] <Operation of the second embodiment> The operation of this embodiment will now be described. As shown in Figure 6, when attaching the filter unit 21 to the mounting section 22, the worker aligns the first inlet 25 with the second outlet 33 and the first outlet 30 with the second inlet 34. The worker attaches the filter unit 21 to the mounting section 22 by moving it in the mounting direction D2. As the filter unit 21 is attached, the first inlet 25 is connected to the second outlet 33 and the first outlet 30 is connected to the second inlet 34. The second outlet valve 48, the first inlet valve 39, the first outlet valve 44, and the second inlet valve 57 move to the open position.

[0066] To remove the filter unit 21 from the mounting section 22, the worker moves the filter unit 21 in the removal direction D1. When the filter unit 21 is removed, the connection between the second outlet section 33 and the first inlet section 25 is released, and the connection between the second inlet section 34 and the first outlet section 30 is released. The second outlet valve 48, the first inlet valve 39, the first outlet valve 44, and the second inlet valve 57 move to the closed position.

[0067] <Effects of the second embodiment> The effects of this embodiment will now be explained. (2-1) The positions of the second lead-out section 33 and the second introduction section 34 are different in the removal direction D1. Therefore, the degree of design freedom can be increased.

[0068] (2-2) The mounting section 22 is provided on the carriage 64. Therefore, by moving the carriage 64, the filter unit 21 can be easily moved to a position that is easy to attach and detach, for example.

[0069] (2-3) The first inlet section 25 is located above the first outlet section 30. The first outlet section 30 sends the liquid discharged from the filter unit 21 to the liquid discharge head 12. Therefore, the supply channel 19 that supplies liquid to the filter unit 21 can be routed at a distance from the liquid discharge head 12.

[0070] (2-4) The filter unit 21 is equipped with a pressure adjustment mechanism 23 located downstream of the filter 28. The pressure adjustment mechanism 23 can adjust the pressure in the liquid discharge head 12. That is, the pressure adjustment mechanism 23 adjusts the pressure by supplying liquid when the liquid discharge head 12 discharges liquid and the pressure in the liquid discharge head 12 changes. The pressure adjustment mechanism 23 stops supplying liquid when the liquid discharge head 12 does not discharge liquid. Therefore, when the filter unit 21 is removed, the pressure adjustment mechanism 23 stops supplying liquid, thus reducing the risk of liquid leakage from the removed filter unit 21.

[0071] [Example of changes] This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0072] In the first embodiment, the first introduction section 25 may be located above the first output section 30. In the second embodiment, the first introduction section 25 may be located below the first output section 30.

[0073] In the first embodiment, the mounting portion 22 may be provided on the carriage 64. The filter unit 21 may be provided as a single unit for multiple liquid supply devices 13. The filter unit 21 may comprise multiple sets of a first inlet 25, an inlet channel 26, a filter chamber 27, a filter 28, an outlet channel 29, and a first outlet section 30. Each of the multiple outlet channels 29 may be provided with a pressure adjustment mechanism 23.

[0074] The second outlet section 33 may be configured without the first pressing section 46. The second outlet section 33 may be equipped with a stopper that restricts the movement of the second outlet valve 48, which has moved to the open position, in the mounting direction D2. When the second outlet valve 48 hits the stopper, the movement of the first introduction valve 39 that pushes the second outlet valve 48 is restricted. The first introduction valve 39 may move to the open position so as to be pushed by the second outlet valve 48. Similarly, the second introduction section 34 may be configured without the second pressing section 55.

[0075] In the second embodiment, the first outlet section 30 and the second inlet section 34 are located downstream of the pressure adjustment mechanism 23 in the supply direction Ds. That is, the liquid passing through the first outlet section 30 and the second inlet section 34 is under negative pressure. Therefore, even if the connection between the first outlet section 30 and the second inlet section 34 is released, the liquid is unlikely to blow out. Accordingly, the first outlet section 30 may be configured without the first outlet valve 44 and the first outlet spring 43. The second inlet section 34 may be configured without the second inlet valve 57 and the second inlet spring 59.

[0076] At least one of the first inlet valve 39, the first outlet valve 44, and the second inlet valve 57 may be a valve that is opened and closed by an operator. The mounting portion 22 may be configured without a case portion 32. The filter unit 21 mounted on the mounting portion 22 may be supported by a component separate from the mounting portion 22.

[0077] The removal direction D1 used when removing the filter unit 21 from the case portion 32 and the direction used when disconnecting the connections between the first inlet portion 25 and the second outlet portion 33, and between the first outlet portion 30 and the second inlet portion 34, may be different directions.

[0078] The liquid dispensing device 11 may be a liquid dispensing device that sprays or dispenses liquids other than ink. The state of the liquid dispensed from the liquid dispensing device as minute droplets may include granular, teardrop-shaped, or thread-like forms. The liquid referred to here may be any material that can be dispensed from the liquid dispensing device. For example, the liquid may be any state in which a substance is in the liquid phase, and may include highly or low viscosity liquids, sols, gel water, other inorganic solvents, organic solvents, solutions, liquid resins, liquid metals, and other fluids. The liquid may include not only liquids as a state of matter, but also functional material particles consisting of solids such as pigments and metal particles dissolved, dispersed, or mixed in a solvent. Typical examples of liquids include inks and liquid crystals as described in the above embodiments. Here, ink refers to general water-based inks and oil-based inks, as well as various liquid compositions such as gel inks and hot-melt inks. Specific examples of liquid dispensing devices include devices that dispense liquids containing materials such as electrode materials and colorants in the form of dispersion or dissolution, used in the manufacture of liquid crystal displays, electroluminescent displays, surface-emitting displays, and color filters. Liquid dispensing devices may also be devices that dispense bio-organic substances used in biochip manufacturing, devices that dispense liquid samples used as precision pipettes, printing devices, microdispensers, etc. Liquid dispensing devices may also be devices that dispense lubricating oil to precision machinery such as watches and cameras with pinpoint accuracy, or devices that dispense transparent resin liquids such as ultraviolet-curing resins onto substrates to form minute hemispherical lenses, optical lenses, etc. used in optical communication elements. Liquid dispensing devices may also be devices that dispense etching solutions such as acids or alkalis to etch substrates.

[0079] [Definition] As used herein, the expression "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired options. For example, as used herein, if there are two options, the expression "at least one" means "only one option" or "both of the two options." As another example, as used herein, the expression "at least one" means "only one option," "a combination of two arbitrary options," or "a combination of three or more arbitrary options" if there are three or more options.

[0080] [Note] The technical concepts and their effects that can be understood from the embodiments and modifications described above are described below.

[0081] [1] The liquid dispensing device comprises a liquid dispensing head capable of dispensing liquid, a supply channel for supplying liquid to the liquid dispensing head, a filter unit provided in the supply channel, and a mounting section to which the filter unit is detachably mounted. The filter unit has a filter for collecting foreign matter, a first inlet for introducing liquid into the filter unit, and a first outlet for discharging liquid from the filter unit. The mounting section has a second outlet to which the first inlet is connected, and a second inlet to which the first outlet is connected. The second inlet has a second inlet, and the second outlet has a second outlet opening facing the same direction as the second inlet, and a second outlet valve capable of opening and closing the second outlet. The second outlet valve moves to an open position when the filter unit is mounted on the mounting section and moves to a closed position when the filter unit is removed from the mounting section.

[0082] In this configuration, the second outlet opens facing the same direction as the second inlet. Therefore, the direction in which the second outlet and the first inlet are attached and detached can be aligned with the direction in which the second inlet and the first outlet are attached and detached. In other words, by moving the filter unit, the connection status between the second outlet and the first inlet, and the connection state between the second inlet and the first outlet, can be easily changed. The second outlet valve opens and closes the second outlet in conjunction with the attachment and detachment of the filter unit. Therefore, the filter unit can be replaced more easily than when an operator has to open and close the valve.

[0083] [2] In the liquid dispensing device described in [1] above, the first introduction unit has a first inlet and a first introduction valve that can open and close the first inlet, and the first introduction valve may move to an open position when the filter unit is attached to the mounting unit and move to a closed position when the filter unit is removed from the mounting unit.

[0084] With this configuration, the first inlet valve moves to the closed position as the filter unit is removed. Therefore, the risk of liquid leaking from the removed filter unit can be reduced.

[0085] [3] In the liquid dispensing device described in [2] above, the second outlet section has a first pressing section, and when the filter unit is mounted on the mounting section, the second outlet valve may be pushed by the first inlet valve to move to the open position, and the first inlet valve may be pushed by the first pressing section to move to the open position.

[0086] In this configuration, when the filter unit is installed, the first inlet valve moves the second outlet valve to the open position and is also pushed to the open position by the first pressing part. Therefore, the filter unit can be installed smoothly while suppressing liquid leakage.

[0087] [4] In any one of the liquid dispensing devices described in [1] to [3] above, if the filter unit moves in the removal direction, the second outlet valve may move in the removal direction and be in the closed position, and if the filter unit moves in the mounting direction opposite to the removal direction, the second outlet valve may move in the mounting direction and be in the open position.

[0088] In this configuration, when the filter unit moves, the second outlet valve moves in the same direction as the filter unit. Therefore, the second outlet valve can be smoothly opened and closed in accordance with the movement of the filter unit.

[0089] [5] In any one of the liquid dispensing devices described in [1] to [4] above, if the filter unit is mounted on the mounting portion, the first inlet may be located ahead of the second outlet in the removal direction, and the first outlet may be located ahead of the second inlet in the removal direction.

[0090] In this configuration, the first inlet and first outlet of the filter unit are located further away in the removal direction than the second outlet and second inlet of the mounting unit. Therefore, by moving the filter unit mounted on the mounting unit in the removal direction, the first inlet and first outlet can be easily separated from the second outlet and second inlet.

[0091] [6] In the liquid dispensing device described in [5] above, the second outlet and the second introduction may be located at different positions in the removal direction. In this configuration, the positions of the second outlet and the second inlet differ in the direction of removal. Therefore, the degree of design flexibility can be increased.

[0092] [7] In the liquid dispensing device described in [4] above, the mounting portion has a case portion capable of housing the filter unit, and the filter unit may move away from the case portion by moving in the removal direction and be housed in the case portion by moving in the mounting direction.

[0093] In this configuration, the filter unit housed in the case separates from the case by moving in the removal direction. The filter unit is then housed in the case by moving in the mounting direction, which is opposite to the removal direction. Therefore, compared to a case where the filter unit moves in one direction and then moves in another direction to separate from the case, the attachment and detachment of the filter unit can be done with a simple operation.

[0094] [8] In the liquid dispensing device described in [7] above, a plurality of filter units may be provided, the case portion may be capable of housing the plurality of filter units, and each filter unit may be individually detachable.

[0095] With this configuration, the multiple filter units housed in the case can be individually attached and detached. Therefore, for example, it is possible to select and replace the filter unit that needs replacing.

[0096] [9] In any one of the liquid dispensing devices described in [1] to [8] above, the second introduction section has a second introduction valve that can open and close the second inlet, and the second introduction valve may move to an open position when the filter unit is attached to the mounting section and to a closed position when the filter unit is removed from the mounting section.

[0097] With this configuration, the second inlet valve moves to the closed position as the filter unit is removed. Therefore, the risk of liquid leaking from the supply channel after the filter unit has been removed can be reduced.

[0098]

[10] In the liquid dispensing device described in [9] above, the first outlet section includes a first outlet and a first outlet valve that can open and close the first outlet, wherein the first outlet valve may move to an open position when the filter unit is mounted on the mounting section and move to a closed position when the filter unit is removed from the mounting section.

[0099] With this configuration, the first outlet valve moves to the closed position as the filter unit is removed. Therefore, the risk of liquid leaking from the removed filter unit can be reduced.

[0100]

[11] In the liquid dispensing device described in

[10] above, the second introduction section has a second pressing section, and when the filter unit is attached to the mounting section, the second introduction valve may be pushed by the first outlet valve to move to the open position, and the first outlet valve may be pushed by the second pressing section to move to the open position.

[0101] In this configuration, when the filter unit is installed, the first outlet valve moves the second inlet valve to the open position and is also pushed to the open position by the second pressing part. Therefore, the filter unit can be installed smoothly while suppressing liquid leakage.

[0102]

[12] Any one of the liquid dispensing devices described in [1] to

[11] above may include a carriage that supports and moves the liquid dispensing head, and the mounting portion may be provided on the carriage.

[0103] In this configuration, the mounting section is located on the carriage. Therefore, by moving the carriage, the filter unit can be easily moved to a position that is easy to attach and detach, for example.

[0104]

[13] In any one of the liquid dispensing devices described in [1] to

[12] above, the first inlet may be located above the first outlet in the vertical direction. In this configuration, the first inlet is located above the first outlet. The first outlet sends the liquid discharged from the filter unit to the liquid discharge head. Therefore, the supply channel that supplies liquid to the filter unit can be routed at a distance from the liquid discharge head.

[0105]

[14] In any one of the liquid dispensing devices described in [1] to

[13] above, the filter unit is provided with a pressure adjustment mechanism capable of adjusting the pressure in the liquid dispensing head, and the pressure adjustment mechanism may be located downstream of the filter in the direction of liquid supply.

[0106] In this configuration, the filter unit includes a pressure regulating mechanism located downstream of the filter. The pressure regulating mechanism can adjust the pressure in the liquid discharge head. That is, the pressure regulating mechanism adjusts the pressure by supplying liquid when the liquid discharge head discharges liquid and the pressure in the liquid discharge head changes, for example. The pressure regulating mechanism stops supplying liquid when the liquid discharge head is not discharging liquid. Therefore, if the filter unit is removed, the pressure regulating mechanism stops supplying liquid, thus reducing the risk of liquid leakage from the removed filter unit. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0107] 11...Liquid discharge device, 12...Liquid discharge head, 13...Liquid supply device, 15...Nozzle, 17...Liquid container, 19...Supply channel, 20...Supply pump, 21...Filter unit, 22...Mounting section, 23...Pressure adjustment mechanism, 25...First inlet, 26...Inlet channel, 27...Filter chamber, 28...Filter, 29...Outlet channel, 30...First outlet, 32...Case section, 33...Second outlet, 34...Second inlet, 36...First inlet port, 37...First inlet valve seat, 38...First inlet spring, 39...First inlet Valve, 41...First outlet, 42...First outlet valve seat, 43...First outlet spring, 44...First outlet valve, 46...First pressing part, 47...Second outlet, 48...Second outlet valve, 49...Second outlet valve seat, 50...Second outlet spring, 52...Outlet shaft, 53...Outlet seal, 55...Second pressing part, 56...Second inlet, 57...Second inlet valve, 58...Second inlet valve seat, 59...Second inlet spring, 61...Inlet shaft, 62...Inlet seal, 64...Carriage, D1...Removal direction, D2...Installation direction, Ds...Supply direction, Z...Vertical direction.

Claims

1. A liquid dispensing head capable of dispensing liquid, A supply channel for supplying liquid to the liquid discharge head, A filter unit provided in the supply channel, The mounting portion to which the filter unit is detachably attached, Equipped with, The aforementioned filter unit is A filter for collecting foreign matter, The filter unit includes a first introduction section for introducing liquid, A first outlet for discharging liquid from the filter unit, It has, The aforementioned mounting portion is The first inlet is connected to the second outlet, The first lead-out section is connected to the second introduction section, It has, The second introduction section has a second inlet, The second derivation section is, A second outlet opening facing the same direction as the second inlet, A second outlet valve that can open and close the second outlet, It has, The liquid dispensing device is characterized in that the second outlet valve moves to an open position when the filter unit is mounted on the mounting portion and moves to a closed position when the filter unit is removed from the mounting portion.

2. The first introduction section includes a first inlet and a first introduction valve capable of opening and closing the first inlet. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first introduction valve moves to an open position when the filter unit is mounted on the mounting portion and moves to a closed position when the filter unit is removed from the mounting portion.

3. The second outlet portion has a first pressing portion, When the filter unit is mounted on the mounting portion, The second outlet valve is pushed by the first inlet valve and moves to the open position. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 2, characterized in that the first introduction valve is moved to the open position when pressed by the first pressing portion.

4. When the filter unit moves in the removal direction, the second outlet valve moves in the removal direction to the closed position. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1, characterized in that when the filter unit moves in the mounting direction opposite to the removal direction, the second outlet valve moves in the mounting direction and is positioned in the open position.

5. When the filter unit is mounted on the mounting portion, The first inlet is located ahead of the second outlet in the removal direction. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first outlet is located ahead of the second inlet in the removal direction.

6. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 5, characterized in that the second outlet and the second introduction are located at different positions in the removal direction.

7. The mounting portion has a case portion capable of housing the filter unit, The aforementioned filter unit is By moving in the aforementioned removal direction, it separates from the case portion, The liquid dispensing device according to claim 4, characterized in that it is housed in the case portion by moving in the aforementioned mounting direction.

8. The filter unit comprises multiple such units, The case section is capable of housing multiple of the filter units. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 7, characterized in that each of the filter units is individually detachable.

9. The second introduction section has a second introduction valve that can open and close the second inlet, The liquid dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the second introduction valve moves to an open position when the filter unit is mounted on the mounting portion and moves to a closed position when the filter unit is removed from the mounting portion.

10. The first outlet section includes a first outlet and a first outlet valve capable of opening and closing the first outlet. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 9, characterized in that the first outlet valve moves to an open position when the filter unit is mounted on the mounting portion and moves to a closed position when the filter unit is removed from the mounting portion.

11. The second introduction section has a second pressing section, When the filter unit is mounted on the mounting portion, The second inlet valve is pushed by the first outlet valve and moves to the open position. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 10, characterized in that the first outlet valve is moved to the open position when pressed by the second pressing portion.

12. The system includes a carriage that supports and moves the liquid dispensing head, The liquid dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the mounting portion is provided on the carriage.

13. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 12, characterized in that the first inlet is located above the first outlet in the vertical direction.

14. The filter unit is equipped with a pressure adjustment mechanism that can adjust the pressure in the liquid discharge head, The liquid discharge device according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure adjustment mechanism is located downstream of the filter in the liquid supply direction.

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