Liquid storage container

Abstract

To provide a technology which can easily re-fill liquid while preventing reduction of a storable liquid amount and inhibiting degradation of quality of the liquid caused by foreign objects mixing into the liquid in a liquid storage container which enables refilling of the liquid.SOLUTION: A liquid storage container enables refilling of liquid to be supplied to a printer and includes: a bag; a liquid supply port member attached with an end part of the bag and having a liquid supply port; a liquid supply passage which is provided at the liquid supply port member and allows the liquid to circulate between a liquid storage part and the liquid supply port; a liquid filling passage which is provided at the liquid supply port member and is provided branched from the liquid supply passage; and a communicating port which is provided at the liquid supply port member and in fluid communication with the liquid filling passage and faces an inner surface of the bag. The bag is disposed in a manner that enables contact with a peripheral edge part of the communication port and attached to the liquid supply port member so that a gap is formed between the bag and the peripheral edge part of the communication port by flow of the liquid flowing from the liquid supply passage to the liquid filling passage and the gap is in fluid communication with the liquid storage part through the communication port.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a liquid storage container.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in a liquid container that is detachably attached to a printer and supplies liquid, when the remaining liquid amount reaches or falls below a lower limit value, it has been proposed to remove the liquid container from the printer, reinject the liquid, and reuse it. In Patent Document 1, in the removed liquid container, a communication portion for communicating with the outside is newly provided in a flexible bag in which the liquid is stored, and the liquid is reinjected into the bag from the communication portion.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the liquid container of Patent Document 1, the communication portion is formed by performing processing such as cutting off the end portion of the bag or making a hole in the bag. For this reason, there is a problem that the size of the bag decreases and the amount of liquid that can be stored decreases. In addition, since the cut-off end portion of the bag cannot be reused, there is also a problem that waste increases. Further, there is a problem that a new member for sealing the communication portion is added, and further, the work for sealing increases. Furthermore, events such as foreign matter entering the bag during the processing of cutting off or making a hole, and foreign matter contained in the ambient atmosphere, for example, entering through the opened hole being exposed to the environment, may occur, leading to a risk of deterioration in the quality of the liquid.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a refillable liquid container for supplying liquid to a printer. The liquid container includes a bag defining a liquid storage portion, a liquid supply port member having a liquid supply port to which an end of the bag is attached, a liquid supply flow path provided in the liquid supply port member for allowing liquid to flow between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply port, a liquid filling flow path provided in the liquid supply port member and branching from the liquid supply flow path, and a communication port provided in the liquid supply port member and in fluid communication with the liquid filling flow path and facing the inner surface of the bag. The bag is disposed so as to be able to contact the peripheral edge of the communication port, and a gap is formed between the peripheral edge and the liquid flowing from the liquid supply flow path to the liquid filling flow path, and the bag is attached to the liquid supply port member such that the gap is in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion through the communication port. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0007] A. First Embodiment: A1. Overall Configuration of the Printer: FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a printer 11 replenished with liquid by a liquid storage container as an embodiment of the present disclosure. The printer 11 is, for example, an inkjet printer that forms a printed image by recording dots by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper.

[0008] The printer 11 includes a housing 12 having an approximately rectangular parallelepiped-shaped exterior. Inside the housing 12, a container storage portion 14 is provided for removably storing a liquid storage container 20. On the front portion of the housing 12, in order from the bottom side upward, a front cover 15 that rotates to open and close the container storage portion 14 and a mounting port 17 to which a cassette 16 capable of accommodating a medium (not shown) is mounted are arranged. Further, above the mounting port 17, a discharge tray 18 for discharging the medium and an operation panel 19 for the user to operate the printer 11 are arranged. Note that the front surface of the housing 12 refers to the side surface having a height and a width and is assumed to be the side surface that the user faces when operating the printer 11.

[0009] In the container storage portion 14 of the present embodiment, a plurality of liquid storage containers 20 can be mounted in a manner of being arranged in the width direction. Each liquid storage container 20 stores ink as an example of a liquid. The plurality of liquid storage containers 20 store ink of any one of the plurality of colors of ink ejected by the printer 11. In the present embodiment, the printer 11 ejects C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black). And for the black ink, it is stored in a liquid storage container 20 having a large width. For the ink of other colors (C, M, Y), it is stored in a liquid storage container 20 having a small width. Note that the ejected ink is not limited to CMYK, and ink of any other color may be ejected. Also, ink of all colors may be stored in liquid storage containers 20 having the same width. Further, although the container storage portion 14 of the present embodiment has a single-stage configuration in the vertical direction (Z direction described later), it may have a multi-stage configuration. In that case, for example, a configuration may be adopted in which one wide liquid storage container 20 is mounted in the container storage portion 14 of one of the multi-stages.

[0010] Inside the housing 12, a liquid injection unit 91 that injects liquid from a nozzle and a carriage 92 that reciprocates along a scanning direction that coincides with the width direction of the printer 11 are provided. The liquid injection unit 91 moves together with the carriage 92 and prints on the medium by injecting the liquid supplied from the liquid storage container 20 toward the medium. In other embodiments, the liquid injection unit 91 may be a line head whose position is fixed without reciprocating movement.

[0011] In the present embodiment, the direction intersecting the movement path when the liquid storage container 20 is attached to the container storage unit 14 is the width direction, and the direction in which the movement path extends is the depth direction. It is preferable that the movement path intersects the width direction at a right angle. The width direction and the depth direction substantially follow the horizontal plane. In the drawings, the direction of gravity when the printer 11 is in the normal use state placed on the horizontal plane is indicated by the Z-axis, and the movement direction when the liquid storage container 20 is attached to the container storage unit 14 is indicated by the Y-axis. The movement direction may also be referred to as the attachment direction or the insertion direction into the container storage unit 14, and the opposite direction of the movement direction may be referred to as the removal direction. Also, the width direction is indicated by the X-axis that is orthogonal to the Z-axis and the Y-axis. The width direction, the gravity direction, and the attachment direction intersect each other and are the directions in the case of representing the length of the width, height, and depth, respectively. It is preferable that the width direction, the gravity direction, and the attachment direction intersect at right angles to each other.

[0012] In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the printer 11 is assumed to be in the normal use state. Also, the direction parallel to the Z-axis is called the Z direction, and among the Z directions, the same direction as the gravity direction is also called the +Z direction, and the direction opposite to the gravity direction is called the -Z direction. Also, the direction parallel to the Y-axis is called the Y direction, one of the Y directions is called the +Y direction, and the other direction is called the -Y direction. The direction parallel to the X-axis is called the X direction, one of the X directions is called the +X direction, and the other direction is also called the -X direction. The +Y direction corresponds to the movement direction of the liquid storage container 20 when the liquid storage container 20 is inserted into the container storage unit 14.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the container storage section 14. As described above, the container storage section 14 can store four liquid storage containers 20 in the present embodiment. A frame body 24 is disposed on the -Y direction side of the container storage section 14. The frame body 24 has an insertion port 25 for inserting the liquid storage container 20 into the container storage section 14.

[0014] The liquid storage container 20 is attached to the container storage section 14 by moving along the +Y direction through the insertion port 25. In FIG. 2, only the vicinity of the front plate forming the insertion port 25 of the frame body 24 is illustrated by a solid line. Four connection mechanisms 29 are provided at the +Y direction end of the container storage section 14 so as to individually correspond to the liquid storage containers 20. The connection mechanism 29 is a mechanism for connecting each liquid storage container 20 to the printer 11.

[0015] The printer 11 includes a supply flow path 30 for supplying liquid from the liquid storage container 20 attached to the container storage section 14 toward the liquid ejection section 91, and a supply mechanism 31 configured to send the liquid stored in the liquid storage container 20 to the supply flow path 30.

[0016] The supply flow path 30 is provided for each type of liquid. The supply flow path 30 includes a liquid introduction section 32 to which the liquid storage container 20 is connected, and a flexible supply tube 33. In the present embodiment, the supply flow path 30 is provided for each ink color. The liquid introduction section 32 is constituted by a needle-shaped tube member extending in the -Y direction. A pump chamber (not shown) is provided between the liquid introduction section 32 and the supply tube 33. The downstream end of the liquid introduction section 32 and the upstream end of the supply tube 33 communicate with the pump chamber. The pump chamber is partitioned via a pressure change chamber (not shown) and a flexible membrane (illustration omitted).

[0017] The supply mechanism 31 includes a voltage conversion mechanism 34 and a drive source 35 for the voltage conversion mechanism 34, and a voltage conversion flow path 36 that connects the voltage conversion mechanism 34 and the above-described voltage conversion chamber. The drive source 35 is constituted by, for example, a motor. When the voltage conversion mechanism 34 reduces the pressure in the voltage conversion chamber through the voltage conversion flow path 36 by driving the drive source 35, the flexible film bends and displaces toward the voltage conversion chamber side, thereby reducing the pressure in the pump chamber. Along with the pressure reduction in this pump chamber, the liquid stored in the liquid storage container 20 is sucked into the pump chamber through the liquid introduction portion 32. This is called "suction drive". Then, when the voltage conversion mechanism 34 releases the pressure reduction in the voltage conversion chamber through the voltage conversion flow path 36, the flexible film bends and displaces toward the pump chamber side, thereby increasing the pressure in the pump chamber. Then, along with the pressure increase in the pump chamber, the liquid in the pump chamber flows out into the supply tube 33 in a pressurized state. This is called "discharge drive". And the supply mechanism 31 supplies the liquid from the liquid storage container 20 to the liquid injection portion 91 by alternately repeating the suction drive and the discharge drive.

[0018] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the connection mechanism 29. The connection mechanism 29 has a first connection mechanism 29F and a second connection mechanism 29S at positions sandwiching the liquid introduction portion 32 in the width direction, respectively. The first connection mechanism 29F includes a device-side fixing structure 38. In the storage state where the liquid storage container 20 is mounted on the container storage portion 14, the device-side fixing structure 38 engages with the container-side fixing structure of an adapter 60 (first support portion 61) described later to restrict the movement of the liquid storage container 20 in the -Y direction. In the first embodiment, the device-side fixing structure 38 is constituted by an arm-shaped member. The device-side fixing structure 38 is disposed vertically below the liquid introduction portion 32 and protrudes in the -Y direction, which is the take-out direction of the liquid storage container 20. The device-side fixing structure 38 is configured such that the tip side is rotatable about the base end side. A locking portion 39 is provided at the tip of the device-side fixing structure 38. The locking portion 39 is disposed on the movement path of the liquid storage container 20 when it is mounted on the container storage portion 14 (see Figure 2). In the first embodiment, the locking portion 39 is configured as a convex portion protruding vertically upward from the device-side fixing structure 38.

[0019] The first connection mechanism 29F includes a device-side electrical connection part 40. The device-side electrical connection part 40 is arranged vertically above the liquid introduction part 32 and protrudes in the -Y direction which is the extraction direction. The device-side electrical connection part 40 is connected to the control device 42 via an electrical circuit 41 such as a flat cable. The upper end of the device-side electrical connection part 40 protrudes in the extraction direction more than the lower end and is arranged so as to face obliquely downward. Also, on both sides of the device-side electrical connection part 40 in the width direction, a pair of guide convex parts 40a that protrude in the width direction and extend along the mounting direction are arranged.

[0020] The second connection mechanism 29S is arranged vertically above the liquid introduction part 32 and includes a block 44 for preventing misinsertion that protrudes in the extraction direction. The block 44 has a concave-convex shape facing downward. The shape of this concave-convex is different for each connection mechanism 29 arranged in the container storage part 14.

[0021] The connection mechanism 29 includes a pair of positioning parts 45, 46. The first positioning part 45 is included in the first connection mechanism 29F, and the second positioning part 46 is included in the second connection mechanism 29S. The first positioning part 45 and the second positioning part 46 are each configured as shaft-like parts extending toward the -Y direction side, and are provided at positions separated from each other in the X direction with the liquid introduction part 32 interposed therebetween. It is preferable that the protruding length of each positioning part 45, 46 in the extraction direction is longer than the protruding length of the liquid introduction part 32 in the extraction direction.

[0022] The connection mechanism 29 further includes an extrusion mechanism 47 arranged to surround the liquid introduction part 32, and a liquid receiving part 48 that protrudes in the extraction direction below the liquid introduction part 32. The extrusion mechanism 47 includes a frame member 47a that surrounds the base end part of the liquid introduction part 32, a pressing part 47b that protrudes in the extraction direction from the frame member 47a, and a biasing part 47c that biases the case 13 in the extraction direction via the pressing part 47b. The biasing part 47c can be, for example, a coil spring interposed between the frame member 47a and the pressing part 47b.

[0023] As described above, the connection mechanism 29 is located at the end portion on the +Y direction side of the container storage portion 14 (see FIG. 2). Therefore, the liquid introduction portion 32 and the device-side electrical connection portion 40 included in the connection mechanism 29 are located at the end portion on the +Y direction side of the container storage portion 14. Further, the liquid introduction portion 32, the device-side fixing structure 38, the first positioning portion 45, and the second positioning portion 46 extend from the end portion on the +Y direction side of the container storage portion 14 toward the -Y direction side.

[0024] A2. Schematic configuration of the liquid storage container 20: FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the external appearance configuration of the liquid storage container 20 in a state where the adapter 60 is not attached. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the external appearance configuration of the liquid storage container 20 in a state where the adapter 60 is not attached and the internal configuration of the liquid storage container 20. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the external appearance configuration of the liquid storage container 20 in a state where the adapter 60 is attached. In FIG. 5, for convenience of explanation, a part of the structure accommodated inside the bag 21 described later is shown in a state where the bag 21 is transparent.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the liquid storage container 20 includes a bag 21 that defines a liquid storage portion, a liquid supply port member 80, a spacer member 70, a pair of liquid discharge pipes 73a and 73b, a connecting member 72, and an adapter 60.

[0026] The bag 21 is flexible. The bag 21 in this embodiment has a substantially rectangular shape in plan view with the Y direction as the longitudinal direction and the X direction as the short side direction. An opening is formed at the end 22 in the +Y direction of the bag 21. The bag 21 is a pillow-type bag formed by overlapping two substantially rectangular films and joining the peripheral edges of the other parts except the part corresponding to the end 22 to each other. Note that it may be a gusset type instead of the pillow type. The film constituting the bag 21 is formed of a material having flexibility and gas barrier properties. For example, examples of the film material include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), nylon, and polyethylene. Further, the film may be formed using a laminated structure in which a plurality of films made of these materials are laminated. In such a laminated structure, for example, the outer layer may be formed of PET or nylon having excellent impact resistance, and the inner layer may be formed of polyethylene having excellent ink resistance. Furthermore, a film having a layer vapor-deposited with aluminum or the like may be used as one component of the laminated structure.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 5, the bag 21 has, inside thereof, a liquid storage portion 21c which is an internal space for storing a liquid. The liquid storage portion 21c stores, as the liquid, ink in which a pigment as a sediment component is dispersed in a solvent.

[0028] The liquid supply port member 80 includes a liquid supply port 810, and supplies the liquid in the liquid storage portion 21c toward the printer 11 through such liquid supply port 810. Further, the liquid supply port member 80 receives the liquid filled in the liquid storage portion 21c through the liquid supply port 810. The liquid supply port member 80 is formed of a synthetic resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene, for example. The end portion 22 of the bag 21 is attached to the liquid supply port member 80. More specifically, a part of the liquid supply port member 80 in the -Y direction is accommodated in the opening of the end portion 22, and the remaining portion of the liquid supply port member 80 in the +Y direction is exposed from the end portion 22 and arranged outside. And in the portion of the liquid supply port member 80 accommodated in the opening of the end portion 22, the liquid supply port member 80 and the end portion 22 are welded, whereby the opening of the end portion 22 is closed. The liquid supply port 810 is used to lead out the liquid in the liquid storage portion 21c to the printer 11 and is also used to fill the liquid storage portion 21c with liquid. The detailed configuration of the liquid supply port member 80 will be described later.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 5, the spacer member 70, the pair of liquid outlet pipes 73a and 73b, and the connecting member 72 are arranged inside the liquid storage portion 21c. The spacer member 70 is a structure for partitioning a region with a certain volume inside the bag 21. The spacer member 70 is formed of the same type of synthetic resin as the synthetic resin forming the liquid supply port member 80. Note that it may be formed of a different type of synthetic resin from the synthetic resin forming the liquid supply port member 80. The spacer member 70 has a portion located on the -Y direction side of the pair of liquid outlet pipes 73a and 73b. The spacer member 70 is provided at a position intersecting with a plane parallel to the Y-Z plane passing through the central axis CX of the liquid supply port 810. The spacer member 70 has an inclined surface 711 at the -Y direction end such that the dimension along the Z direction of the spacer member 70 increases as it goes from the -Y direction side to the +Y direction side. Hereinafter, the surface 711 is referred to as the "inclined surface 711". In the present embodiment, the spacer member 70 has inclined surfaces 711 on the -Z direction side and the +Z direction side with respect to the central axis CX, respectively. Therefore, the spacer member 70 has a shape pointed toward the -Y direction when viewed from the X direction. In the present embodiment, the "surface" includes not only a surface composed only of a flat surface, but also a surface having grooves or recesses formed on its surface, a surface having protrusions or convex portions formed on its surface, and a virtual surface surrounded by a frame. That is, as long as it can be grasped as a "surface" as a whole, there may be unevenness or through holes in a certain region occupied by the surface.

[0030] In the posture in which the liquid storage container 20 is attached to the printer 11, at least one of the lowermost portion and the uppermost portion of the spacer member 70 is in contact with the inner surface of the bag 21. In the present embodiment, both the lowermost portion and the uppermost portion of the spacer member 70 are in contact with the inner surface of the bag 21. Hereinafter, the posture of the liquid storage container 20 when the liquid storage container 20 is in the attached state is referred to as the "attached posture". In the present embodiment, in the attached posture, the height at the center between the lowermost portion and the uppermost portion of the spacer member 70 coincides with the height of the central axis CX of the liquid supply port 810.

[0031] FIG. 7 is a first perspective view showing a spacer member 70, a pair of liquid outlet pipes 73a and 73b, and a connecting member 72. FIG. 8 is a second perspective view showing the spacer member 70, the pair of liquid outlet pipes 73a and 73b, and the connecting member 72. FIG. 9 is a third perspective view showing the spacer member 70, the pair of liquid outlet pipes 73a and 73b, and the connecting member 72. FIG. 10 is a fourth perspective view showing the spacer member 70, the pair of liquid outlet pipes 73a and 73b, and the connecting member 72. FIG. 11 is a front view showing the spacer member 70.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 7 to 11, the spacer member 70 includes a back member 718. The back member 718 is a plate-like member having a substantially hexagonal shape in plan view. The back member 718 is arranged in the spacer member 70 so as to be parallel to the X-Z plane at a portion where the dimension in the Z direction is the largest. As shown in FIG. 11, in the back member 718, a first inlet 713 is formed on the -Z direction side. Also, in the back member 718, a second inlet 716 is formed on the +Z direction side. The first inlet 713 is an opening for introducing the relatively upper liquid in the liquid storage portion 21c of the bag 21 into the second liquid outlet pipe 73b. The second inlet 716 is an opening for introducing the relatively lower liquid in the liquid storage portion 21c of the bag 21 into the first liquid outlet pipe 73a. The second liquid outlet pipe 73b connected to the back member 718 is in fluid communication with the first inlet 713. Also, the first liquid outlet pipe 73a connected to the back member 718 is in fluid communication with the second inlet 716. The inner diameter of the first inlet 713 is smaller than the inner diameter of the second inlet 716. In other words, the inner diameter of the second inlet 716 is larger than the inner diameter of the first inlet 713. For this reason, the second inlet 716 located below the first inlet 713 is more likely to suck the liquid in the liquid storage portion 21c. Note that the spacer member 70 has inclined surfaces not only on the -Z direction side and the +Z direction side but also on the -X direction side and the +X direction side with respect to the central axis CX.

[0033] As shown in FIGS. 7 to 11, the spacer member 70 includes a groove-shaped first flow path 712 and a second flow path 719. The first flow path 712 is a flow path for flowing a liquid in the +Y direction toward the first inlet 713 and the second inlet 716. The second flow path 719 is a flow path for flowing the liquid in a direction intersecting the Y direction. In the present embodiment, a plurality of second flow paths 719 are formed. The second flow path 719 is configured by forming a groove extending vertically and along the X direction from the inclined surface 711 of the spacer member 70. Note that the second flow path 719 may be formed so as to flow the liquid in a direction intersecting both the X direction and the Y direction. Further, in other embodiments, it is also possible to omit at least one of the first flow path 712 and the second flow path 719.

[0034] The pair of liquid outlet pipes 73a and 73b guide the liquid sucked from the second inlet 716 and the first inlet 713 to the liquid supply port member 80. The pair of liquid outlet pipes 73a and 73b are constituted by, for example, elastic tubes formed of an elastomer. The pair of liquid outlet pipes 73a and 73b have the same length as each other. As shown in FIGS. 7 to 10, in this embodiment, in the mounted posture, the +Y-direction end of the first liquid outlet pipe 73a and the +Y-direction end of the second liquid outlet pipe 73b are aligned horizontally. Also, in the mounted posture, the -Y-direction end of the first liquid outlet pipe 73a and the -Y-direction end of the second liquid outlet pipe 73b are aligned vertically. Therefore, the liquid sucked from the first liquid outlet pipe 73a and the second liquid outlet pipe 73b is converted from a state of flowing side by side in the vertical direction to a state of flowing side by side in the horizontal direction, and then mixes inside the liquid supply port member 80 and is led out from the liquid supply port 810 to the printer 11. Note that in other embodiments, a configuration in which the +Y-direction end of the first liquid outlet pipe 73a and the +Y-direction end of the second liquid outlet pipe 73b are aligned vertically and the -Y-direction end of the first liquid outlet pipe 73a and the -Y-direction end of the second liquid outlet pipe 73b are aligned horizontally, a configuration in which the +Y-direction end of the first liquid outlet pipe 73a and the +Y-direction end of the second liquid outlet pipe 73b are aligned vertically and the -Y-direction end of the first liquid outlet pipe 73a and the -Y-direction end of the second liquid outlet pipe 73b are also aligned vertically, or a configuration in which the +Y-direction end of the first liquid outlet pipe 73a and the +Y-direction end of the second liquid outlet pipe 73b are aligned horizontally and the -Y-direction end of the first liquid outlet pipe 73a and the -Y-direction end of the second liquid outlet pipe 73b are also aligned horizontally can also be adopted.

[0035] The connecting member 72 has a rod-shaped external appearance, with one end connected to the spacer member 70 and the other end connected to the liquid supply port member 80. The connecting member 72 connects the spacer member 70 and the liquid supply port member 80, thereby fixing the position of the spacer member 70 within the liquid storage portion 21c. The connecting member 72 is arranged along the Y direction. On the surface of the connecting member 72, a plurality of ribs arranged in the Y direction are provided, enhancing its rigidity. The connecting member 72 is formed of the same type of synthetic resin as that forming the liquid supply port member 80. It should be noted that it may also be formed of a different type of synthetic resin from that forming the liquid supply port member 80.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 6, an adapter 60 is attached to the bag 21 and housed in the printer 11. The adapter 60 is attached so as to cover the liquid supply port member 80. The adapter 60 has a physical structure for connecting the liquid storage container 20 to the connection mechanism 29. The adapter 60 includes two support parts (a first support part 61 and a second support part 62) that can be disassembled in the vertical direction (Z direction) and a handle part 51.

[0037] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section along the XII-XII cross-section line in FIG. 6. The first support part 61 is located in the +Z direction with respect to the second support part 62 and the liquid supply port member 80, and supports the liquid supply port member 80 from below. The first support part 61 includes a placement part 619. The placement part 619 has a surface parallel to the X-Y plane (horizontal plane) in the mounted state, and the liquid storage container 20 is placed thereon. In other words, the placement part 619 supports the liquid storage container 20 from below. The second support part 62 is located in the -Z direction with respect to the first support part 61 and the liquid supply port member 80. The second support part 62 includes a number of ribs 622 extending in the +Z direction. In this embodiment, the central part of the liquid storage container 20 in the X direction is not in contact with the second support part 62 (ribs 622). Both ends of the liquid storage container 20 in the X direction are sandwiched and supported by the first support part 61 and the second support part 62.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 6, the first support portion 61 includes a terminal arrangement portion 614, an engagement groove 622, an insertion portion 621, a first receiving portion 623, and a second receiving portion 624.

[0039] The terminal arrangement portion 614 is configured as a depression recessed in the +Z direction, in which the container-side electrical connection portion 50 is arranged, and in the mounted state, the device-side electrical connection portion 40 is accommodated. The container-side electrical connection portion 50 is provided on the surface of the circuit board. On this circuit board, a storage portion for storing various information regarding the liquid storage container 20, for example, the type of the liquid storage container 20 and the liquid storage capacity, is provided.

[0040] The engagement groove 622 is formed on the end surface of the first support portion 61 in the +Z direction, below the terminal arrangement portion 614. The engagement groove 622 communicates with the end surface of the first support portion 61 in the +Y direction. The engagement groove 622 forms a part of the container-side fixing structure and engages with the locking portion 39 of the device-side fixing structure 38. The engagement groove 622 includes a groove that serves as a path for the locking portion 39 to move when the liquid storage container 20 is accommodated (inserted) into the container storage portion 14, a groove that serves as a path for the locking portion 39 to move when the liquid storage container 20 is removed from the container storage portion 14, and a portion that engages with the locking portion 39 in the mounted state. By the engagement between the engagement groove 622 and the locking portion 39, the position of the liquid storage container 20 is fixed in the mounted state.

[0041] The insertion portion 621 is arranged approximately at the center of the first support portion 61 in the X direction. The insertion portion 621 opens to the end surface of the first support portion 61 in the +Y direction and is configured as a hole extending in the Y direction. The supply port forming portion 812, which will be described later, of the liquid supply port member 80 is inserted into the insertion portion 621. As a result, the liquid supply port 810 is arranged in the insertion portion 621. Also, in the mounted state, the liquid introduction portion 32 is inserted into the insertion portion 621.

[0042] The first receiving portion 623 is located in the -X direction with respect to the insertion portion 621, and is provided at a position close to the +Z direction (downward) end portion of the first support portion 61. The second receiving portion 624 is located in the +X direction with respect to the insertion portion 621, and is provided at a position close to the +Z direction (downward) end portion of the first support portion 61. The two receiving portions 623 and the second receiving portion 624, similar to the insertion portion 621, open to the +Y direction end surface of the first support portion 61 and are configured as holes extending in the Y direction. In the mounted state, the first positioning portion 45 is inserted into the first receiving portion 623. Also, in the mounted state, the second positioning portion 46 is inserted into the second receiving portion 624. Thereby, when the liquid storage container 20 is inserted from the insertion port 25 into the container storage portion 14, the liquid storage container 20 is positioned.

[0043] The second support portion 62 includes an identification portion arrangement portion 612 and an identification portion 613. The identification portion arrangement portion 612 is configured as a depression recessed in the +Z direction, in which the identification portion 613 is arranged and which houses the block 44 in the mounted state. The identification portion 613 has a concavo-convex shape facing upward. The identification portion 613 fits with the block 44 of the container storage portion 14 when the correct liquid storage container 20 among the plurality of liquid storage containers 20 is inserted into the container storage portion 14. In the present embodiment, for each of the four container storage portions 14, it is preset which color ink-filled liquid storage container 20 is to be mounted. And the above-mentioned "correct liquid storage container 20" means a liquid storage container 20 that stores a preset color ink. The block 44 and the identification portion 613 are formed in different shapes for each color ink. For this reason, as described above, when the correct liquid storage container 20 is inserted into the container storage portion 14, it fits with the block 44 of the container storage portion 14.

[0044] A3. Detailed configuration of the liquid supply port member 80: FIG. 13 is a first perspective view showing the detailed configuration of the liquid supply port member 80. FIG. 14 is a second perspective view showing the detailed configuration of the liquid supply port member 80. FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the liquid supply port member 80.

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 13 to 15, the liquid supply port member 80 includes a tip portion 81, a central portion 82, and a base end portion 83. The liquid supply port member 80 also includes a check valve (check valve 87 described later) not shown in FIGS. 13 to 15 inside. The tip portion 81 is located most in the +Y direction in the liquid supply port member 80. The base end portion 83 is located most in the -Y direction in the liquid supply port member 80. The central portion 82 is disposed between the tip portion 81 and the base end portion 83 and is located at the center in the Y direction in the liquid supply port member 80. Note that the liquid supply port member 80 has a configuration that is symmetric about the central axis CX of the liquid supply port 810 in the left - right (X - direction).

[0046] The tip portion 81 includes a plate - like portion 811, a supply port forming portion 812, and a pair of positioning claws 813. The plate - like portion 811 has a thin plate - like external shape. The supply port forming portion 812 has a cylindrical external shape, and a liquid supply port 810 is formed at the end portion in the +Y direction. The supply port forming portion 812 is disposed at the center in the X - direction in the plate - like portion 811 such that the direction of the central axis coincides with the Y - direction. The central axis of the supply port forming portion 812 coincides with the central axis CX of the liquid supply port 810. One of the pair of positioning claws 813 is disposed at the end portion in the +Y direction on the +X - direction side of the liquid supply port 810 in the plate - like portion 811. The other of the pair of positioning claws 813 is disposed at the end portion in the +Y direction on the - X - direction side of the liquid supply port 810. The pair of positioning claws 813 define the position of the liquid supply port member 80 in the adapter 60 by fitting into a predetermined groove in the first support portion 61 of the adapter 60.

[0047] The central portion 82 protrudes in the +X - direction and - X - direction and also protrudes in the +Z - direction and - Z - direction compared to the tip portion 81 and the base end portion 83. The central portion 82 has a hexagonal planar shape when viewed in the Y - direction. Also, as shown in FIG. 15, the central portion 82 has a substantially rectangular planar shape when viewed in the Z - direction. The end portion 22 of the bag 21 is welded to the central portion 82.

[0048] FIG. 16 is an explanatory view showing the welded portion 820 with the bag 21 in the central portion 82. In FIG. 16, it is the same drawing as FIG. 14 except that the welded portion 820 is clearly shown by hatching. As shown in FIGS. 13 to 16, a number of grooves with the Z direction as the depth direction are formed on the surface (bottom surface) in the +Z direction and the surface (upper surface) in the -Z direction of the central portion 82. The welded portion 820 is configured as a set of portions excluding such grooves. Although not shown, the welded portion 820 is also formed on the upper surface of the central portion 82 shown in FIG. 13. The welded portion 820 is the site where the end portion 22 of the bag 21 is welded. A part of the above-described grooves formed in the liquid supply port member 80 forms a liquid flow path between the bag 21. The liquid supply port 810 on the +Y side of the welded portion 820 in the liquid supply port member 80, that is, as shown in FIG. 5, protrudes from the bag 21.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 13, an upper surface flow path forming portion 821 is formed on the upper surface of the central portion 82. The upper surface flow path forming portion 821 forms an upper surface flow path 823, which will be described later, between the bag 21. The upper surface flow path forming portion 821 is configured by a groove extending along the X direction. One end of the upper surface flow path forming portion 821 communicates with a communication path 826, which will be described later. The other end of the upper surface flow path forming portion 821 is not sealed and is open into the liquid storage portion 21c, forming a filling port 822 between the bag 21. When filling the liquid into the liquid storage portion 21c, the liquid passes through the filling port 822.

[0050] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, a second storage portion 825, a communication port forming portion 827, an end opening 829, a check valve housing portion 824, and a first notch portion C1 are formed on the bottom surface of the central portion 82.

[0051] The second storage portion 825 is formed by a groove with the -Z direction as the depth direction. The second storage portion 825 temporarily stores liquid when filling the liquid storage portion 21c with liquid (hereinafter, also simply referred to as "filling") in the space provided between it and the bag 21. The communication port forming portion 827 protrudes in the +Z direction from the bottom surface of the second storage portion 825. The communication port forming portion 827 has a cylindrical outer appearance shape, and a communication path 826 is formed inside. The communication path 826 is configured as a through hole that penetrates the liquid supply port member 80 in the thickness direction (Z direction). Liquid flows through the communication path 826 during filling. The communication port 85, which is the end of the communication path 826, is in fluid communication with the liquid filling flow path P2 described later and faces the inner surface of the bag 21. The communication port 85 faces downward in the mounted state. The height of the communication port forming portion 827 is the same as the height of the rib (wall portion) forming the second storage portion 825. Therefore, when supplying the liquid in the liquid storage portion 21c from the liquid supply port 810 to the printer 11 (hereinafter, also simply referred to as "supply"), the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 abuts against the bag 21. The peripheral edge portion 828 corresponds to the +Z direction end surface of the communication port forming portion 827 and is configured as an annular surface forming the periphery of the communication port 85. As shown in FIG. 12, the placement portion 619 of the first support portion 61 supports the liquid supply port member 80 from below the communication port 85 and causes the bag 21 to abut against the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 in the mounted state. However, as shown in FIG. 16, the peripheral edge portion 828 is not welded to the bag 21. Therefore, as will be described later, the peripheral edge portion 828 will not abut against the bag 21 during filling.

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the end opening 829 is located at the center in the X direction in the second storage portion 825 and opens in the +Z direction on the ceiling surface (-Z direction end surface) of the second storage portion 825. The end opening 829 forms the -Z direction end of the second internal flow path 852 described later. The end opening 829 supplies liquid to the second storage portion 825 during liquid filling.

[0053] The check valve housing portion 824 has a cylindrical outer shape formed at the center in the X direction on the bottom surface of the central portion 82. The check valve housing portion 824 houses a check valve 87 and a valve seat support portion 874, which will be described later. Details of the check valve 87 and the valve seat support portion 874 will be described later.

[0054] The first notch portion C1 is formed in a portion adjacent to the -Y direction with respect to the wall portion forming the check valve housing portion 824 (cylinder). The first notch portion C1 is formed to be recessed in the -Z direction compared to other portions of the wall portion forming the check valve housing portion 824. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 16, the first notch portion C1 is not welded to the bag 21 and is not in contact with the bag 21.

[0055] The base end portion 83 includes a recess 830 recessed in the +Y direction, and is connected to the connecting member 72 in the recess 830. As shown in FIG. 13, the peripheral edge portion 831 on the upper surface of the base end portion 83 protrudes slightly in the -Z direction compared to other portions of the upper surface of the base end portion 83. The bag 21 is welded to the peripheral edge portion 831.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the base end portion 83 includes, on the bottom surface side, a peripheral edge portion 832 and a first reservoir portion 833 surrounded by the peripheral edge portion 832 and the central portion 82.

[0057] Similar to the above-described peripheral edge portion 831, the peripheral edge portion 832 protrudes in the +Z direction compared to other portions (i.e., the first reservoir portion 833) of the bottom surface of the base end portion 83. As shown in FIG. 16, the bag 21 is welded to the peripheral edge portion 832. In the peripheral edge portion 832, a first communication hole 83a is formed in the -X direction from the recess 830. The first communication hole 83a communicates the first liquid outlet pipe 73a and the first reservoir portion 833. Also, in the peripheral edge portion 832, a second communication hole 83b is formed in the +X direction from the recess 830. The second communication hole 83b communicates the second liquid outlet pipe 73b and the first reservoir portion 833.

[0058] The first storage part 833 is constituted by a groove with the -Z direction as the depth direction. The first storage part 833 temporarily stores the liquid at the time of supply in the space provided between it and the bag 21. Specifically, liquid is supplied to the first storage part 833 from the first liquid outlet pipe 73a through the first communication hole 83a, and liquid is also supplied to the first storage part 833 from the second liquid outlet pipe 73b through the second communication hole 83b. Here, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the first storage part 833 communicates with the first notch part C1 formed in the central part 82. For this reason, the check valve housing part 824 and the first storage part 833 communicate with each other through the first notch part C1.

[0059] A4. Liquid flow during supply: FIG. 17 is a first cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of the liquid supply port member 80 along the central axis CX of the liquid supply port 810. In FIG. 17, a cross-section parallel to the Y-Z plane is shown. In FIG. 17, the liquid supply flow path P1 is indicated by a solid-line arrow. Also, the liquid filling flow path P2 is indicated by a dashed-line arrow. The liquid supply flow path P1 is provided inside the liquid supply port member 80 and liquid-connects the liquid storage part 21c and the liquid supply port 810. The liquid filling flow path P2 is provided branching from the liquid supply flow path P1. The liquid filling flow path P2 is a flow path through which the liquid flows when filling the liquid storage part 21c of the bag 21 with the liquid filled from the liquid supply port 810.

[0060] Inside the tip portion 81 of the liquid supply port member 80, a shaft hole 89 is formed along the central axis CX. Inside the shaft hole 89, a first flow path forming member 841, a second flow path forming member 842, and an elastic body 843 are arranged in order from the liquid supply port 810 in the -Y direction. These first flow path forming member 841, second flow path forming member 842, and elastic body 843 are arranged such that their central axes coincide with each other. Both the first flow path forming member 841 and the second flow path forming member 842 have a cylindrical outer appearance shape and are arranged at positions corresponding to the inside of the supply port forming portion 812. An annular protrusion is formed at the +Y direction end of the first flow path forming member 841 and is fitted into a groove provided in the shaft hole 89. The +Y direction end of the second flow path forming member 842 is in contact with the -Y direction end of the first flow path forming member 841. In this embodiment, the elastic body 843 is constituted by a coil spring. The +Y direction end of the elastic body 843 is in contact with the -Y direction end of the second flow path forming member 842. The -Y direction end of the elastic body 843 is in contact with the wall located at the -Y direction end of the shaft hole 89. The elastic body 843 biases the second flow path forming member 842 in the +Y direction. As described above, since the first flow path forming member 841 that contacts the second flow path forming member 842 in the +Y direction is fitted in the shaft hole 89, the positions of the first flow path forming member 841 and the second flow path forming member 842 do not shift in the +Y direction from the state shown in FIG. 17.

[0061] The -Y direction end of the shaft hole 89 reaches inside the central portion 82 and communicates with a first internal flow path 851 formed inside the central portion 82. The first internal flow path 851 is arranged to extend in the Y direction. The first internal flow path 851 communicates with a second internal flow path 852. The second internal flow path 852 is arranged to extend in the Z direction. The -Z direction end of the second internal flow path 852 corresponds to the end opening 829. Also, the first internal flow path 851 is configured to be communicable with the inside of the check valve housing portion 824.

[0062] Inside the central portion 82, a cylindrical check valve housing portion 824 is formed as described above, and a check valve 87 and a valve seat support portion 874 are housed therein. The position of this check valve housing portion 824 is located between the branch position XP of the liquid supply flow path P1 and the liquid filling flow path P2 and the liquid storage portion 21c. Therefore, the check valve 87 is positioned between the branch position XP and the liquid storage portion 21c.

[0063] The check valve 87 permits the flow of liquid from the liquid storage portion 21c toward the liquid supply port 810 and restricts the flow of liquid from the liquid supply port 810 toward the liquid storage portion 21c. The check valve 87 has a valve body 871 and a valve seat 872. The valve body 871 has a thin disk-like external shape, and notches and through holes are formed in the peripheral portion. The valve seat 872 has a flat cylindrical external shape, and a through hole 873 is formed at the center. Such a through hole 873 is opened when the valve body 871 is positioned above, as shown in FIG. 17. At this time, the first internal flow path 851 communicates with the inside of the check valve housing portion 824. Note that an opening is also provided in the ceiling surface of the check valve housing portion 824 so that liquid can flow through. On the other hand, when the valve body 871 is positioned below, the through hole 873 is blocked by the valve body 871. At this time, the first internal flow path 851 does not communicate with the inside of the check valve housing portion 824.

[0064] FIG. 18 is an explanatory view showing the flow path that appears on the bottom surface of the liquid supply port member 80 in the liquid supply flow path P1. In FIG. 18, the liquid supply flow path P1 is added with thick arrows to the perspective view of the liquid supply port member 80 similar to FIG. 14.

[0065] When supplying liquid, the liquid storage container 20 is stored in the container storage portion 14, and the liquid introduction portion 32 of the connection mechanism 29 is inserted into the insertion portion 621 and also into the shaft hole 89. In this state, when liquid is supplied, the liquid sent from the spacer member 70 via the liquid outlet pipe 73a flows into the first storage portion 833 through the first communication hole 83a of the liquid supply port member 80 as shown in FIG. 18. Similarly, the liquid sent from the spacer member 70 via the second liquid outlet pipe 73b flows into the first storage portion 833 through the second communication hole 83b of the liquid supply port member 80. The liquid that has flowed into the first storage portion 833 reaches the valve seat support portion 874 through the first notch C1.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 17, the liquid that has reached the check valve housing portion 824 pushes up the valve body 871 by going upward from the through hole 873 and flows into the check valve housing portion 824. Then, the liquid flows from the check valve housing portion 824 into the first internal flow path 851, travels in the +Y direction within the first internal flow path 851, and is discharged from the liquid supply port 810. At this time, the liquid introduction portion 32 of the connection mechanism 29 is inserted into the shaft hole 89, and liquid is supplied from the liquid introduction portion 32 into the printer 11.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 17, during supply, since the liquid supply port 810 is depressurized and sucked by a suction means such as a suction pump of the printer 11, the bag 21 abuts against the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85, and the communication port 85 is closed by the bag surface. For this reason, the flow of liquid from the liquid storage portion 21c toward the supply port 810 through the communication port 85 and the liquid filling flow path P2 is obstructed.

[0068] When the remaining amount of liquid in the liquid storage unit 21c is reduced by liquid supply, the inside of the liquid storage unit 21c becomes a negative pressure. In this case, the pressure on the first internal flow path 851 side (atmospheric pressure) across the valve body 871 becomes higher than that on the through hole 873 side (negative pressure), and the valve body 871 moves downward and abuts against the valve seat 872. As a result, the through hole 873 is blocked, and the inflow of air from the first internal flow path 851 into the liquid storage unit 21c through the through hole 873 is suppressed. As a result, it is possible to suppress the storage of liquid containing bubbles in the liquid storage unit 21c and to suppress the supply of such liquid containing bubbles to the printer 11.

[0069] A5. Flow of liquid during liquid filling: FIG. 19 is a second cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of the liquid supply port member 80 along the central axis CX of the liquid supply port 810. In FIG. 19, a cross-section at the same position as in FIG. 17 is shown. In FIG. 19, different from FIG. 17, the liquid supply flow path P1 is indicated by a dashed arrow, and the liquid filling flow path P2 is indicated by a solid arrow. FIG. 20 is an explanatory view showing the flow path that appears on the bottom surface of the liquid supply port member 80 in the liquid filling flow path P2. In FIG. 20, the liquid filling flow path P2 is added with a thick arrow to the perspective view of the liquid supply port member 80 similar to FIG. 14. FIG. 21 is an explanatory view showing the flow path that appears on the upper surface of the liquid supply port member 80 in the liquid filling flow path P2. In FIG. 21, the liquid filling flow path P2 is added with a thick arrow to the perspective view similar to FIG. 13. FIG. 22 is an explanatory view showing a part of the liquid filling flow path P2. In FIG. 22, a cross-section taken along the XIX-XIX cross-section line shown in FIG. 15 is shown. Further, in FIG. 22, the flow of liquid during filling is indicated by a thick arrow. In FIG. 22, for the sake of illustration, each component is schematically shown by being extended in the Z direction.

[0070] When filling with liquid, the liquid storage container 20 is removed from the container storage portion 14. Also, the adapter 60 is removed from the liquid storage container 20. Then, a cylindrical supply portion provided in a liquid filling device (not shown) is inserted into the shaft hole 89 from the liquid supply port 810. At this time, the posture of the liquid storage container 20 is the same as the posture in the mounted state. In this state, when liquid is supplied from a liquid filling device (not shown) to the shaft hole 89, the liquid flows into the first internal flow path 851. Note that it is not always necessary to remove the adapter 60 when filling with liquid. For example, when there is a gap between the first support portion 61 and the liquid supply port member 80 to which the bag 21 is attached, or when the second support portion 62 does not support the liquid supply port member 80 to which the bag 21 is attached so as to press it toward the first support portion 61 side, the adapter 60 does not have to be removed.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 19, a part of the liquid that has flowed into the first internal flow path 851 flows into the check valve housing portion 824. At this time, the liquid pushes down the valve body 871 and causes it to contact the valve seat 872. As a result, the through hole 873 is blocked, and the check valve housing portion 824 becomes a closed space. As shown in FIG. 22, the flow of liquid through the through hole 873, in other words, the flow of liquid toward the liquid storage portion 21c through the through hole 873 is blocked.

[0072] On the other hand, the liquid that flows into the second internal flow path 852 from the branch position XP shown in FIG. 19 flows into the second storage portion 825 from the end opening 829 as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 20. Here, the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 is not welded to the bag 21, and the bag 21 has flexibility. Therefore, after the second storage portion 825 is filled with liquid, and when further liquid flows into the second storage portion 825 from the end opening 829, the bag 21 bends downward (+Z direction), and the bag 21 separates from the peripheral edge portion 828.

[0073] FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing the state of the end portion 22 of the bag 21 during liquid filling. As described above, after the second storage portion 825 is filled with liquid, when liquid further flows into the second storage portion 825 from the end opening 829, the bag 21 deflects downward and the protruding portion 23 is formed. The protruding portion 23 protrudes in the +Z direction compared to other portions on the end face in the +Z direction of the end portion 22. As described above, since the peripheral portion 828 of the communication port 85 is not welded to the bag 21, the portion corresponding to the peripheral portion 828 in the bag 21 protrudes in the +Z direction in the same manner as other portions. As a result, the planar shape of the protruding portion 23 in the Z direction substantially coincides with the outer shape of the second storage portion 825. By forming the protruding portion 23 in this way, a gap is formed between the peripheral portion 828 of the communication port 85 and the bag 21. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 20, the liquid flows from the second storage portion 825 into the communication path 826 through such a gap.

[0074] As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the liquid that has flowed into the communication path 826 on the bottom surface of the liquid supply port member 80 reaches the upper surface flow path 823 on the upper surface of the liquid supply port member 80. Then, such liquid is supplied (filled) into the liquid storage portion 21c from the upper surface flow path 823 through the filling port 822.

[0075] According to the liquid storage container 20 of the first embodiment described above, since the bag 21 is arranged so as to be able to contact the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 interposed when communicating with the liquid filling flow path P2 and the liquid storage portion 21c in liquid communication, when the liquid is supplied, the surface of the bag 21 contacts the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 due to the suction action on the liquid supply port side, and the communication port 85 is closed. Therefore, ink supply through the communication port 85 is not performed. Also, the bag 21 forms a gap with the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 due to the flow of the liquid from the liquid supply flow path P1 to the liquid filling flow path P2, and is attached to the liquid supply port member 80 so that such a gap is in liquid communication with the liquid storage portion 21c through the communication port 85. Therefore, by flowing the liquid from the liquid supply flow path P1 to the liquid filling flow path P2, the liquid storage portion 21c can be easily refilled with the liquid. Also, since no processing is required for the bag 21 etc. in the stage prior to refilling, the refilling operation becomes easy, and generation of waste can be suppressed. Also, since it is not necessary to cut off a part of the bag 21 or make a hole, reduction of the liquid filling amount can be suppressed. Furthermore, since no processing is required for the bag 21 etc., entry of foreign matter into the bag 21 can be suppressed, and the liquid can be supplied to the printer 11 while maintaining the quality of the liquid in a good state. Also, compared with the configuration of closing the liquid filling flow path P2 after the first liquid requirement for the printer 11 is completed, the closing process can be omitted, and refilling can be performed. Furthermore, compared with the configuration in which the liquid filling port is provided separately in advance from the liquid supply port 810 and the filling port is crushed, sealed with a film, or sealed with a cap after liquid filling, the sealing member and the process of sealing the filling port with the sealing member can be omitted. In addition, there is no need to open it again during refilling.

[0076] Further, the communication port 85 is arranged to face downward in the mounted state, and the first support portion 61 supports the liquid supply port member 80 from below the communication port 85 and brings the bag 21 into contact with the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 in the mounted state. Therefore, in the mounted state, due to the self-weight of the liquid storage container 20, the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 and the bag 21 supported by the first support portion 61 from below can be brought into close contact with each other. For this reason, the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage portion 21c to the liquid filling flow path P2 can be suppressed, and the liquid supply from the liquid supply flow path P1 can be performed favorably. In particular, due to the self-weight of the liquid storage container 20, wrinkles are less likely to occur in the portion of the bag 21 facing the communication port 85. Therefore, the close contact state between the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 and the bag 21 can be improved, and the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage portion 21c to the liquid filling flow path P2 can be suppressed. As a result, it is possible to suppress the supply of the highly concentrated liquid staying below the liquid storage portion 21c through the liquid filling flow path P2.

[0077] In addition, a check valve 87 is provided that allows the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage portion 21c toward the liquid supply port 810 and restricts the flow of the liquid from the liquid supply port 810 toward the liquid storage portion 21c. Therefore, even when the liquid remaining amount in the liquid storage portion 21c is reduced and the negative pressure increases through the liquid supply, it is possible to suppress the suction of air from the liquid supply port 810 into the liquid storage portion 21c. For this reason, it is possible to suppress the supply of air bubbles to the printer 11 and suppress the deterioration of the printing quality.

[0078] According to the liquid storage container 20 of the first embodiment described above, since the bag 21 is arranged to be able to contact the peripheral edge of the communication port that intervenes when communicating with the liquid filling flow path P2 and the liquid storage part in a liquid communication state, it is possible to suppress the return of the liquid from the liquid supply flow path to the liquid storage part through the communication port during liquid supply. Further, the bag forms a gap with the peripheral edge of the communication port due to the flow of the liquid from the liquid supply flow path to the liquid filling flow path, and since such a gap is attached to the liquid supply port member so as to be in liquid communication with the liquid storage part through the communication port, the liquid storage part can be easily refilled by flowing the liquid from the liquid supply flow path to the liquid filling flow path. Also, since no processing is required for the bag or the like in the stage prior to refilling, the refilling operation becomes easy, and the generation of waste can be suppressed. Further, since it is not necessary to cut off a part of the bag or make a hole, a reduction in the liquid filling amount can be suppressed. Furthermore, since no processing is required for the bag or the like, the entry of foreign matter into the bag can be suppressed, and the liquid can be supplied to the printer while maintaining the quality of the liquid in good condition. Also, compared with the configuration in which the liquid filling flow path is blocked after the first liquid requirement of the printer is completed, the blocking process can be omitted and refilling can be performed. Furthermore, compared with the configuration in which the liquid filling port is provided separately in advance from the liquid supply port and the filling port is crushed, sealed with a film, or sealed with a cap after liquid filling, the sealing member and the process of sealing the filling port with the sealing member can be omitted. In addition, there is no need to open it again during refilling. Further, by using a bag having a liquid evaporation resistance function as the bag 21, compared with a liquid storage container having a configuration in which the opening of the liquid is opened and closed by opening and closing the cap, the evaporation of the liquid component can be suppressed.

[0079] B. Second Embodiment: FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing the liquid storage container 20a of the second embodiment. In FIG. 24, similar to FIG. 12, a cross-section along the cross-section line at the same position as the XII-XII cross-section line in FIG. 6 is shown. The liquid storage container 20a of the second embodiment is different from the liquid storage container 20 of the first embodiment in that it includes an adapter 60a instead of the adapter 60. Since other configurations of the adapter 60a in the second embodiment are the same as those of the adapter 60 in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0080] The adapter 60a is different from the adapter 60 of the first embodiment in that it includes a second support portion 62a instead of the second support portion 62, and other components are the same. The second support portion 62a is different from the second support portion 62 of the first embodiment in that it includes a rib 622a instead of the rib 622, and other components are the same. As shown in FIG. 24, the rib 622a has a greater length in the Z direction than the rib 622 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the +Z direction end portion of the rib 622a abuts against the end portion 22 of the bag 21, and supports the liquid supply port member 80 via the end portion 22 of the bag 21. Thereby, the second support portion 62a supports the liquid supply port member 80 so that the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 abuts against the bag 21 from the side opposite to the first support portion 61.

[0081] The liquid storage container 20a of the second embodiment described above has the same effects as the liquid storage container 20 of the first embodiment. In addition, since the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62a bring the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 into contact with the bag 21 via the bag 21, it is easier to bring the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 and the bag 21 closer to each other. For this reason, the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage portion 21c toward the liquid filling flow path P2 can be suppressed, and the liquid supply can be performed favorably. Further, even if the first and second support portions 61 and 62a are not positioned in the vertical direction, and further, even in a state where the liquid storage container 20a is removed from the printer 11, the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 and the bag 21 can be closely held, and the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage portion 21c toward the liquid filling flow path P2 can be suppressed. Therefore, even when the liquid storage container 20a is removed from the printer 11, it is possible to hardly cause liquid leakage from the liquid supply port 810. Further, compared with the configuration in which only the first support portion 61 supports the liquid supply port member 80, even when the remaining amount of the liquid in the liquid storage portion 21c is small, it is difficult to impair the close state between the peripheral edge portion 828 of the communication port 85 and the bag 21. Furthermore, by checking the support states of the first and second support portions 61 and 62a, it is possible to easily determine whether refilling is possible.

[0082] C. Other Embodiments: (C1) In each embodiment, the adapters 60 and 60a may be omitted. In such a configuration, the bag 21 in a state where the liquid supply port member 80 is welded to the end portion 22 may be housed in a resin case, and the terminal arrangement portion 614, the insertion portion 621, the identification portion arrangement portion 612, the identification portion 613, the first receiving portion 623, the second receiving portion 624, the engagement groove 622, etc. may be formed in such a case. The above-described case may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape with a cavity formed inside, or may have a tray-like shape with an upper side (-Z direction) open. In this way, the mode in which the liquid storage container 20 is housed in the case is also called, for example, an "ink cartridge".

[0083] (C2) The configurations of the liquid storage containers 20 and 20a of each embodiment are also applicable to liquid storage containers mounted on any printer that injects liquids other than ink. For example, they are applicable to the liquid storage containers of the following various printers (liquid injection devices). (a) Image recording devices such as facsimile machines (b) Printers for ejecting color materials used in the manufacture of color filters for image display devices such as liquid crystal displays (c) Printers for ejecting electrode materials used in the formation of electrodes for organic EL (Electro Luminescence) displays, field emission displays (FEDs), etc. (d) Printers for ejecting liquids containing biological organics used in the manufacture of biochips (e) Printers for samples as precision pipettes (f) Printers for ejecting lubricating oil (g) Printers for ejecting resin liquids (h) Printers for ejecting lubricating oil pinpointedly onto precision machinery such as watches and cameras (i) Printers for ejecting transparent resin liquids such as ultraviolet curable resin liquids onto substrates to form micro hemispherical lenses (optical lenses) used in optical communication elements, etc. (j) Printers for ejecting acidic or alkaline etching liquids to etch substrates, etc. (k) Printers equipped with liquid consumption heads for ejecting any other minute droplets

[0084] Note that the "droplet" refers to the state of the liquid ejected from the printer, including those in granular, teardrop, and filamentous trailing forms. Also, the "liquid" here only needs to be a material that can be consumed by the printer. For example, the "liquid" only needs to be a material in the state when the substance is in the liquid phase, including highly viscous or low-viscosity liquid-state materials, as well as liquid-state materials such as sols, gels, water, other inorganic solvents, organic solvents, solutions, liquid resins, and liquid metals (molten metals). Also, not only the liquid as a state of matter, but also those in which particles of functional materials composed of solids such as pigments and metal particles are dissolved, dispersed, or mixed in a solvent are included in the "liquid". Also, typical examples of the liquid include ink, liquid crystal, etc. as described in the above embodiments. Here, the ink is to include general aqueous ink, oil-based ink, and various liquid compositions such as gel ink and hot melt ink.

[0085] (C3) The configurations of the liquid storage containers 20 and 20a in each embodiment are merely examples and can be variously modified. For example, the spacer member 70 does not have to be fixed to the liquid supply port member 80. For example, a structure in which the spacer member 70 is fixed to the inner surface of the bag 21 may be used. Also, in each embodiment, at least a part of the first flow path forming member 841, the second flow path forming member 842, and the elastic body 843 may be omitted. Also, in each embodiment, the check valve 87 may be omitted.

[0086] D. Other Forms: The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be realized in various forms without departing from the gist thereof. For example, the present disclosure can also be realized by the following forms. The technical features in the above embodiments corresponding to the technical features in each of the following forms can be appropriately replaced or combined in order to solve part or all of the problems of the present disclosure or to achieve part or all of the effects of the present disclosure. Also, if the technical feature is not described as essential in this specification, it can be appropriately deleted.

[0087] (1) According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a refillable liquid container for supplying a liquid to a printer is provided. The liquid container includes a bag that defines a liquid storage portion, a liquid supply port member to which an end of the bag is attached and that has a liquid supply port, a liquid supply flow path provided in the liquid supply port member for allowing liquid to flow between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply port, a liquid filling flow path provided in the liquid supply port member and branched from the liquid supply flow path, and a communication port provided in the liquid supply port member, in fluid communication with the liquid filling flow path and facing the inner surface of the bag. The bag is disposed so as to be able to contact the peripheral edge of the communication port, and a gap is formed between the peripheral edge and the bag by the flow of the liquid from the liquid supply flow path to the liquid filling flow path, and the bag is attached to the liquid supply port member such that the gap is in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion through the communication port. According to the liquid storage container of this form, since the bag is arranged so as to be able to contact the peripheral edge of the communication port interposed when communicating with the liquid filling flow path and the liquid storage part, when supplying liquid, it is possible to suppress the liquid from returning from the liquid supply flow path to the liquid storage part through the communication port. Further, the bag forms a gap with the peripheral edge of the communication port by the flow of the liquid from the liquid supply flow path to the liquid filling flow path, and since such a gap is attached to the liquid supply port member so as to communicate with the liquid storage part through the communication port, by flowing the liquid from the liquid supply flow path to the liquid filling flow path, the liquid storage part can be easily refilled with liquid. Further, since no processing is required for the bag or the like in the stage prior to refilling, the refilling operation becomes easy, and the generation of waste can be suppressed. Further, since it is not necessary to cut off a part of the bag or make a hole, a reduction in the liquid filling amount can be suppressed. Furthermore, since no processing is required for the bag or the like, the entry of foreign matter into the bag can be suppressed, and the liquid can be supplied to the printer while maintaining the quality of the liquid in good condition. Also, compared with the configuration in which the liquid filling flow path is blocked after the first liquid requirement for the printer is completed, the blocking process can be omitted, and refilling can be performed. Furthermore, compared with the configuration in which the liquid filling port is provided separately from the liquid supply port in advance and the filling port is crushed, sealed with a film, or sealed with a cap after liquid filling, the sealing member and the process of sealing the filling port with the sealing member can be omitted. In addition, there is no need to open it again during refilling. Also, by using a bag having a liquid evaporation resistance function as the bag, compared with a liquid storage container having a configuration in which the opening of the liquid is opened and closed by opening and closing the cap, evaporation of the liquid component can be suppressed.

[0088] (2) In the liquid storage container of the above form, it further includes a first support part that supports the liquid supply port member through the end part of the bag, the communication port is arranged to face downward in the mounted state where the liquid storage container is mounted on the printer, and the first support part supports the liquid supply port member from below the communication port in the mounted state and may bring the bag into contact with the peripheral edge part. According to the liquid storage container of this form, the communication port is arranged to face downward in the mounted state, and the first support portion supports the liquid supply port member from below the communication port in the mounted state and brings the bag into contact with the peripheral edge of the communication port. Therefore, in the mounted state, the weight of the liquid storage container can bring the peripheral edge of the communication port and the bag supported from below by the first support portion into close contact with each other. For this reason, the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage portion to the liquid filling flow path can be suppressed, and the liquid supply from the liquid supply flow path can be performed well. In particular, due to the weight of the liquid storage container, the portion of the bag facing the communication port is less likely to wrinkle, so that the close contact state between the peripheral edge of the communication port and the bag can be improved, and the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage portion to the liquid filling flow path can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the supply of the highly concentrated liquid staying below the liquid storage portion through the liquid filling flow path.

[0089] (3) In the liquid storage container of the above form, the liquid storage container may further include a first support portion and a second support portion that support the liquid supply port member through the end portion of the bag. The first support portion supports the liquid supply port member so as to face the communication port through the bag and bring the bag into contact with the peripheral edge portion, and the second support portion supports the liquid supply port member so as to bring the peripheral edge portion of the communication port into contact with the bag from the side opposite to the first support portion with respect to the communication port. According to the liquid storage container of this form, since the peripheral edge of the communication port is brought into contact with the bag via the bag by the first support portion and the second support portion, it is easier to make the peripheral edge of the communication port and the bag closer. For this reason, the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage portion toward the liquid filling flow path can be suppressed, and the liquid supply can be performed well. Further, even if the first and second support portions are not located in the vertical direction, and furthermore, even when the liquid storage container is removed from the printer, the peripheral edge of the communication port and the bag can be closely held, and the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage portion toward the liquid filling flow path can be suppressed. Therefore, even when the liquid storage container is removed from the printer, it is possible to hardly cause liquid leakage from the liquid supply port. Further, compared with the case where the liquid supply port member is supported only by the first support portion, even when the amount of liquid in the liquid storage portion is small, it is difficult to impair the close state between the peripheral edge of the communication port and the bag. Furthermore, by checking the support state of the first and second support portions, it is possible to easily determine whether refilling is possible.

[0090] (4) In the liquid storage container of the above form, a check valve disposed between the branch position of the liquid supply flow path and the liquid filling flow path and the liquid storage portion may be further provided, and the check valve allows the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage portion toward the liquid supply port and regulates the flow of the liquid from the liquid supply port toward the liquid storage portion. According to the liquid storage container of this form, since it is provided with a check valve that allows the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage portion toward the liquid supply port and regulates the flow of the liquid from the liquid supply port toward the liquid storage portion, even when the remaining amount of liquid in the liquid storage portion is reduced and the negative pressure increases through the liquid supply, it is possible to suppress the suction of air from the liquid supply port into the liquid storage portion. For this reason, it is possible to suppress the supply of air bubbles to the printer and suppress the deterioration of the print quality.

Explanation of reference numerals

[0091] 11…Printer, 12…Housing, 13…Case, 14…Container storage section, 15…Front cover, 16…Cassette, 17…Mounting port, 18…Discharge tray, 19…Operation panel, 20…Liquid storage container, 20a…Liquid storage container, 21…Bag, 21c…Liquid storage section, 22…End, 23…Protrusion, 24…Frame body, 25…Insertion port, 29…Connection mechanism, 29F…First connection mechanism, 29S…Second connection mechanism, 30…Supply flow path, 31…Supply mechanism, 32…Liquid introduction section, 33…Supply tube, 34…Transformer mechanism, 35…Drive source, 36…Transformer flow path, 38…Device-side fixing structure, 39…Locking portion, 40…Device-side electrical connection section, 40a…Guide projection, 41…Electrical wire, 42…Control device, 44…Block, 45…Positioning section, 46…Positioning section, 47…Extrusion mechanism, 47a…Frame member, 47b…Pressing portion, 47c…Biasing portion, 48…Liquid receiving section, 50…Container-side electrical connection section, 51…Handle portion, 60…Adapter, 60a…Adapter, 61…First support section, 62…Second support section, 62a…Second support section, 70…Spacer member, 72…Connecting member, 73a…First liquid outlet tube, 73b…Second liquid outlet tube, 80…Liquid supply port member, 81…Tip portion, 82…Central portion, 83…Base end portion, 83a…First communication hole, 83b…Second communication hole, 85…Communication port, 87…Check valve, 89…Axial hole, 91…Liquid injection section, 92…Carriage, 612…Identification section arrangement section, 613…Identification section, 614…Terminal arrangement section, 619…Mounting section, 621…Insertion section, 622…Engagement groove, 623…First receiving section, 624…Second receiving section, 625…Rib, 625a…Rib, 711…Inclined surface, 712…First flow path, 713…First inlet, 716…Second inlet, 718…Rear surface member, 719…Second flow path, 810…Liquid supply port, 811…Plate-like portion, 812…Supply port forming section, 813…Positioning claw, 820…Welded portion, 821…Upper surface flow path forming section, 822…Filling port, 823…Upper surface flow path, 824…Check valve housing section, 825…Second storage section, 826…Communication path, 827…Communication port forming section, 828…Peripheral portion, 829…End opening, 830…Recess, 831…Peripheral portion, 832…Peripheral portion, 833…First storage section, 841…First flow path forming member, 842…Second flow path forming member, 843…Elastomer, 851…First internal flow path, 852…Second internal flow path, 871…Valve body, 872…Valve seat, 873…Through hole, 874…Valve seat support section, C1…First notch, CX…Central axis, P1…Liquid supply flow path, P2…Liquid filling flow path, XP…Branching position

Claims

1. A liquid storage container that is refillable with liquid to be supplied to a printer, comprising: a bag that defines a liquid storage portion; a liquid supply port member to which an end of the bag is attached and that has a liquid supply port; a liquid supply flow path provided in the liquid supply port member that allows liquid to flow between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply port; a liquid filling flow path provided in the liquid supply port member and branched from the liquid supply flow path; a communication port provided in the liquid supply port member that is in fluid communication with the liquid filling flow path and faces the inner surface of the bag; a first support portion that supports the liquid supply port member via the end of the bag; The bag is arranged so as to be able to contact the peripheral edge of the communication port, and a gap is formed between the bag and the peripheral edge by the flow of the liquid from the liquid supply flow path to the liquid filling flow path, and the liquid supply port member is attached so that the gap is in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion through the communication port. The communication port is arranged to face downward when the liquid storage container is mounted on the printer. In the mounted state, the first support portion supports the liquid supply port member from below the communication port and brings the bag into contact with the peripheral edge. A liquid storage container.

2. A liquid storage container that is refillable with liquid to be supplied to a printer, comprising: a bag that defines a liquid storage portion; a liquid supply port member to which an end of the bag is attached and that has a liquid supply port; a liquid supply flow path provided in the liquid supply port member that allows liquid to flow between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply port; a liquid filling flow path provided in the liquid supply port member and branched from the liquid supply flow path; a communication port provided in the liquid supply port member that is in fluid communication with the liquid filling flow path and faces the inner surface of the bag; a first support portion and a second support portion that support the liquid supply port member via the end of the bag; The bag is arranged so as to be able to contact the peripheral edge of the communication port, and a gap is formed between the bag and the peripheral edge by the flow of the liquid from the liquid supply flow path to the liquid filling flow path, and the liquid supply port member is attached so that the gap is in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion through the communication port. The first support portion supports the liquid supply port member so as to face the communication port through the bag and bring the bag into contact with the peripheral edge of the communication port. The second support portion supports the peripheral edge from the side opposite to the first support portion with respect to the communication port. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ A liquid storage container that supports the liquid supply port member so as to abut against the bag.

3. The liquid storage container according to claim 1 or claim 2, In the liquid supply flow path, a check valve disposed between the branch position of the liquid supply flow path and the liquid filling flow path and the Liquid storage section described above, further comprising: The check valve allows the flow of the liquid from the liquid storage section toward the liquid supply port, and the A liquid storage container that restricts the flow of the liquid from the liquid supply port described above toward the liquid storage section.

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