Liquid container

Abstract

To provide a liquid storage container which enables reduction of a possibility that foreign objects enter thereinto.SOLUTION: A liquid storage body 31 is connected to a liquid discharge device, which discharges a liquid, and includes: a container 32 in which the liquid is stored; and a filter part 81 which collects foreign objects. In the container, an injection port 42 for injecting the liquid into the container and a lead-through port 43 for leading out the liquid from the container are open. The filter part is located at the injection port.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid container. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a liquid container connected to a liquid ejection device. The liquid container includes a container for containing liquid. The container has an inlet through which the liquid is poured. The liquid container is continuously used by pouring the liquid through the inlet. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-61691 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the liquid container described in Patent Document 1, there is a risk that foreign matter may enter the container when liquid is poured into the container through the pouring port. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A liquid container that solves the above problem is a liquid container that is connected to a liquid ejection device that ejects liquid, and is equipped with a container that stores liquid and a filter unit that collects foreign matter, the container having an inlet for injecting liquid into the container and an outlet for discharging liquid from the container, and the filter unit is located at the inlet. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a liquid ejection device and a liquid container. [Figure 2] FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a top view of the liquid container. [Figure 5] FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a left side view of the liquid container. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a liquid container. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 8 with the cover removed. [Figure 10] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 in FIG. 4. [Figure 11] FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the upper part of FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 16 with the seal member removed. [Figure 18] FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the valve portion taken in a direction different from that of FIG. 13. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the lower part of FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the filter portion. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the valve portion. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing another modified example different from that of FIG. 25. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] An embodiment of a liquid container connected to a liquid ejection device will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, the liquid ejection device will be described. The liquid ejection device is, for example, an inkjet printer that records images such as characters and photographs by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper or fabric.

[0008] 1, the liquid ejection device 11 is connected to a liquid container 31. The liquid ejection device 11 includes a housing 12, an ejection unit 13, and a supply mechanism . The ejection unit 13 is housed in the housing 12. The ejection unit 13 is configured to eject a liquid. The ejection unit 13 is, for example, a head. The ejection unit 13 has one or more nozzles 15. The ejection unit 13 ejects the liquid from the nozzles 15 onto the medium 99.

[0009] The supply mechanism 14 is configured to supply liquid from the liquid container 31 to the discharge portion 13. The supply mechanism 14 includes, for example, a connector 21, a supply pipe 22, a pump 23, a degassing module 24, a reservoir 25, and a pressure adjustment valve 26.

[0010] The connector 21 is configured to be connectable to the liquid container 31. By connecting the connector 21 to the liquid container 31, it becomes possible to supply liquid from the liquid container 31 to the discharge part 13. In this example, the connector 21 is located outside the housing 12. The connector 21 may also be located inside the housing 12.

[0011] The connector 21 has a connection portion 27. The connection portion 27 is a functional portion for detecting the connection between the liquid container 31 and the connector 21. The connection portion 27 is, for example, a terminal that is electrically connected to the liquid container 31.

[0012] The supply pipe 22 is configured to allow a liquid to flow through it. The supply pipe 22 includes, for example, a tube. The supply pipe 22 is connected to the connector 21 and the discharge portion 13. In this example, the supply pipe 22 extends from the inside to the outside of the housing 12. The supply pipe 22 may also extend only within the housing 12. That is, the entire supply pipe 22 may be housed in the housing 12.

[0013] The pump 23 is located in the supply pipe 22. The pump 23 is located, for example, between the connector 21 and the degassing module 24. The pump 23 is located, for example, inside the housing 12. When the pump 23 is driven, it sends the liquid from the liquid container 31 toward the discharge portion 13. The pump 23 is, for example, a diaphragm pump.

[0014] The degassing module 24 is located in the supply pipe 22. The degassing module 24 is located, for example, between the pump 23 and the reservoir 25. The degassing module 24 is located, for example, within the housing 12. The degassing module 24 is configured to degas the liquid flowing through the supply pipe 22. The degassing module 24 removes air bubbles from the liquid, for example, by applying a negative pressure to the liquid.

[0015] The reservoir 25 is located in the supply pipe 22. The reservoir 25 is located, for example, between the degassing module 24 and the pressure regulating valve 26. The reservoir 25 is located, for example, inside the housing 12. The reservoir 25 is configured to store a liquid. The reservoir 25 may be configured to supply the stored liquid. For example, the reservoir 25 may send the stored liquid to the discharge unit 13 by applying pressure to the stored liquid.

[0016] The pressure adjustment valve 26 is located in the supply pipe 22. The pressure adjustment valve 26 is located, for example, between the storage section 25 and the discharge section 13. The pressure adjustment valve 26 is located, for example, inside the housing 12. The pressure adjustment valve 26 opens and closes according to the pressure inside the discharge section 13. The pressure adjustment valve 26 opens when the pressure inside the discharge section 13 is equal to or lower than a predetermined pressure. In this case, liquid flows from the storage section 25 to the discharge section 13. When liquid flows into the discharge section 13, the pressure inside the discharge section 13 increases. The pressure adjustment valve 26 closes when the pressure inside the discharge section 13 exceeds the predetermined pressure. In this case, liquid does not flow from the storage section 25 to the discharge section 13. This adjusts the pressure inside the discharge section 13.

[0017] The supply mechanism 14 may have one or more supply valves 28. The supply valves 28 are located in the supply pipe 22. The supply valves 28 are located, for example, between the connector 21 and the pump 23. The supply valves 28 are located, for example, inside the housing 12. The supply valves 28 may also be located outside the housing 12.

[0018] When the supply valve 28 is closed, liquid is not supplied from the liquid container 31 to the liquid ejection device 11. When the supply valve 28 is open, liquid is supplied from the liquid container 31 to the liquid ejection device 11. If the supply mechanism 14 has multiple supply valves 28, the multiple supply valves 28 may be arranged between the connector 21 and the pump 23, or may be arranged between the degassing module 24 and the storage unit 25, or between the storage unit 25 and the pressure adjustment valve 26, for example.

[0019] Next, the liquid container 31 will be described. The liquid container 31 is configured to contain liquid. The liquid container 31 is connected to the liquid ejection device 11. More specifically, the liquid container 31 is connected to the connector 21. The liquid container 31 can also be detached from the connector 21. The liquid container 31 is detachable from the connector 21.

[0020] In this example, the connector 21 is connected to a surface of the liquid container 31 that faces forward. When the connector 21 is connected to the liquid container 31, the direction from the liquid container 31 to the connector 21 is the forward direction. The surface of the liquid container 31 to which the connector 21 is connected is the surface of the liquid container 31 that faces forward.

[0021] In this example, the liquid container 31 is located outside the housing 12. Therefore, the liquid container 31 is connected to the connector 21 outside the housing 12. In this example, the liquid container 31 is connected to the connector 21 at a position away from the housing 12. The liquid container 31 may also be located inside the housing 12. For example, the liquid container 31 may be connected to the connector 21 after being housed in the housing 12.

[0022] 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, in this example, the liquid container 31 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. In this example, the liquid container 31 has the largest height among its width, depth, and height.

[0023] 8, the liquid container 31 includes a container 32. The container 32 contains a liquid. 9, in this example, the container 32 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and therefore has a front wall 33, a rear wall 34, an upper wall 35, a lower wall 36, a right side wall 37, and a left side wall 38.

[0024] The front wall 33 is a wall located at the front of the container 32. The front wall 33 is the wall opposite the rear wall 34. The front wall 33 is connected to the upper wall 35, the lower wall 36, the right side wall 37, and the left side wall 38. In this example, the front wall 33 forms the surface of the liquid container 31 that faces forward.

[0025] The rear wall 34 is a wall located at the rear of the container 32. The rear wall 34 is the wall opposite the front wall 33. The rear wall 34 is connected to the upper wall 35, the lower wall 36, the right side wall 37, and the left side wall 38. The upper wall 35 is a wall located at the top of the container 32. The upper wall 35 is the wall opposite the lower wall 36. The upper wall 35 is connected to the front wall 33, the rear wall 34, the right wall 37, and the left wall 38.

[0026] The lower wall 36 is a wall located at the lower part of the container 32. The lower wall 36 is the wall opposite to the upper wall 35. The lower wall 36 is connected to the front wall 33, the rear wall 34, the right wall 37, and the left wall 38. The right side wall 37 is a wall located on the right side of the container 32 when the front wall 33 is viewed from the front. The right side wall 37 is a wall opposite the left side wall 38. The right side wall 37 is connected to the front wall 33, the rear wall 34, the upper wall 35, and the lower wall 36.

[0027] The left side wall 38 is a wall located on the left side of the container 32 when the front wall 33 is viewed from the front. The left side wall 38 is a wall opposite the right side wall 37. The left side wall 38 is connected to the front wall 33, the rear wall 34, the upper wall 35, and the lower wall 36.

[0028] 10, the container 32 has a storage chamber 41 that stores a liquid. The storage chamber 41 is a space defined by a front wall 33, a rear wall 34, an upper wall 35, a lower wall 36, a right wall 37, and a left wall 38 in the container 32.

[0029] 9 and 10, an inlet 42 is opened in the container 32. The inlet 42 is an opening for injecting liquid into the container 32. The liquid is injected into the storage chamber 41 through the inlet 42. This allows the user to continue using the liquid container 31.

[0030] The inlet 42 is located on the upper side of the container 32. The upper side of the container 32 refers to a position above the midpoint between the upper wall 35 and the lower wall 36. Specifically, the upper side of the container 32 is above a first imaginary line L1 that extends midway between the upper wall 35 and the lower wall 36. In this example, the inlet 42 opens in the upper wall 35.

[0031] The inlet 42 is located on the front side of the container 32. The front side of the container 32 refers to the front side of the intermediate position between the front wall 33 and the rear wall 34. Specifically, the front side of the container 32 is forward of a second imaginary line L2 that extends midway between the front wall 33 and the rear wall 34. In this example, the inlet 42 opens on the front side of the upper wall 35.

[0032] An outlet 43 opens into the container 32. The outlet 43 is an opening for discharging the liquid from the container 32. The liquid is discharged from the storage chamber 41 through the outlet 43. The outlet 43 is located below the container 32. The below side of the container 32 refers to a position below the midpoint between the upper wall 35 and the lower wall 36. Specifically, the below side of the container 32 is below the first imaginary line L1. In this example, the outlet 43 opens to the lower wall 36.

[0033] The outlet 43 is located on the rear side of the container 32. The rear side of the container 32 refers to the rear of the midpoint between the front wall 33 and the rear wall 34. Specifically, the rear side of the container 32 is rear of the second imaginary line L2. In this example, the outlet 43 opens on the rear side of the bottom wall 36.

[0034] The container 32 has a visual confirmation section 44. The visual confirmation section 44 is a functional section for visually confirming the liquid level of the liquid contained in the container 32. By visually confirming the liquid level through the visual confirmation section 44, the user can grasp the remaining amount of liquid contained in the container 32.

[0035] The visible portion 44 is configured by a transparent or translucent portion of the container 32. In this example, the visible portion 44 is located on the front wall 33. Therefore, in the container 32, at least the front wall 33 is transparent or translucent. In this example, not only the front wall 33 but the entire container 32 is transparent or translucent.

[0036] The container 32 is made of, for example, a transparent or translucent resin material. The container 32 is made by, for example, blow molding. The container 32 is not limited to being made by blow molding, and may be made by other methods such as injection molding or extrusion molding.

[0037] 8, the liquid container 31 includes a protective member 51. The protective member 51 protects the container 32 by surrounding the container 32. In this example, the protective member 51 includes a cover 52 and a frame 53. The cover 52 and the frame 53 may be integrated.

[0038] In this example, the cover 52 is fixed to the frame 53. In this example, the cover 52 is screwed to the frame 53. The cover 52 is detachable from the frame 53.

[0039] When the cover 52 is fixed to the frame 53, force applied to the cover 52 is less likely to be transmitted to the container 32 than when the cover 52 is fixed to the container 32. For example, if the cover 52 is deformed, stress due to the deformation is less likely to be transmitted to the container 32. Furthermore, when the cover 52 is fixed to the frame 53, there is no need to process the container 32 to fix the cover 52, compared to when the cover 52 is fixed to the container 32. Therefore, the rigidity of the container 32 is maintained. Therefore, the container 32 is appropriately protected by the protective member 51.

[0040] The cover 52 is configured to cover the container 32. The cover 52 is made of, for example, sheet metal. In this example, the cover 52 has a front plate 54, an upper plate 55, a right plate 56, and a left plate 57.

[0041] The front plate 54 is a plate located at the front of the cover 52. The front plate 54 is connected to the upper plate 55, the right plate 56, and the left plate 57. The front plate 54 faces the front wall 33. In this example, the front plate 54 forms a surface of the liquid container 31 that faces forward.

[0042] The upper plate 55 is a plate located at the upper part of the cover 52. The upper plate 55 is connected to the front plate 54, the right plate 56, and the left plate 57. The upper plate 55 faces the upper wall 35. The right plate 56 is a plate located on the right side of the cover 52 when the front plate 54 is viewed from the front. The right plate 56 is a plate opposite to the left plate 57. The right plate 56 connects the front plate 54 and the upper plate 55. The right plate 56 faces the right side wall 37. In this example, the right plate 56 is fixed to the frame 53.

[0043] The left plate 57 is a plate located on the left side of the cover 52 when the front plate 54 is viewed from the front. The left plate 57 is a plate opposite to the right plate 56. The left plate 57 connects the front plate 54 and the upper plate 55. The left plate 57 faces the left side wall 38. In this example, the left plate 57 is fixed to the frame 53.

[0044] The cover 52 covers the container 32 so as to expose at least the viewing portion 44. In this example, the cover 52 covers the container 32 so as to expose at least a portion of the front wall 33. The cover 52 has an exposure opening 58 that exposes the front wall 33. In this example, the entire container 32 is transparent or translucent, so the portion of the front wall 33 that is exposed through the exposure opening 58 functions as the viewing portion 44. The user can view the level of the liquid contained in the container 32 through the exposure opening 58.

[0045] In this example, the cover 52 does not cover the rear wall 34, so the rear wall 34 is exposed. Therefore, in this example, the user can also see the liquid level of the liquid contained in the container 32 through the rear wall 34.

[0046] In this example, exposure opening 58 exposes not only viewing portion 44 but also injection port 42. That is, in this example, exposure opening 58 exposes front wall 33 and top wall 35. Therefore, exposure opening 58 is open across front plate 54 and top plate 55. The opening that exposes viewing portion 44 and the opening that exposes injection port 42 may be separate.

[0047] The cover 52 may have a grip portion 59 for the user to grip. This makes it easier for the user to carry the liquid container 31. In this example, the grip portion 59 is attached to the upper plate 55. The grip portion 59 is located on the rear side of the upper plate 55. In other words, the grip portion 59 is located on the upper plate 55 behind the second imaginary line L2.

[0048] 9, the frame 53 supports the container 32 from below. The frame 53 is located below the container 32. The frame 53 supports the container 32, thereby stabilizing the attitude of the liquid container 31.

[0049] The frame 53 is made of, for example, a metal plate, and includes a mounting plate 61, a protection plate 62, a top plate 63, and a bottom plate 64. 9 and 11, the mounting plate 61 is located at the front of the frame 53. The mounting plate 61 is the plate opposite the protective plate 62. The mounting plate 61 is connected to the top plate 63 and the bottom plate 64. In this example, the mounting plate 61 forms the surface of the liquid container 31 that faces forward.

[0050] The mounting plate 61 is a plate to which the lead-out portion 151, which will be described later, is attached. The mounting plate 61 is located below the front wall 33. The mounting plate 61 extends so as to be continuous with the front wall 33. The mounting plate 61 is located below the front plate . The mounting plate 61 extends so as to be continuous with the front plate .

[0051] The protective plate 62 is located at the rear of the frame 53. The protective plate 62 is the plate opposite the mounting plate 61. The protective plate 62 is connected to the top plate 63 and the bottom plate 64. The protective plate 62 is located below the rear wall 34. The protective plate 62 extends so as to be continuous with the rear wall 34.

[0052] The top plate 63 is located at the upper part of the frame 53. The top plate 63 is the plate opposite to the bottom plate 64. The top plate 63 is connected to the mounting plate 61 and the protective plate 62. The container 32 is placed on the top plate 63. In other words, the top plate 63 comes into contact with the container 32. The top plate 63 faces the lower wall 36.

[0053] The bottom plate 64 is located at the lower part of the frame 53. The bottom plate 64 is the plate opposite to the top plate 63. The bottom plate 64 is connected to the mounting plate 61 and the protection plate 62. The frame 53 defines a storage space 65 below the container 32. The storage space 65 is a space defined by the mounting plate 61, the protective plate 62, the top plate 63, and the bottom plate 64. The storage space 65 is a space accessible from the outside. The storage space 65 is located directly below the container 32. The components of the liquid container 31 are located within the storage space 65.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 11 , the frame 53 has one or more openings 66. In this example, the frame 53 has two openings 66. The openings 66 are defined by a mounting plate 61, a protective plate 62, a top plate 63, and a bottom plate 64. The storage space 65 communicates with the openings 66. A user can access the storage space 65 through the openings 66.

[0055] In this example, when the cover 52 is attached to the frame 53, the two openings 66 are blocked by the right plate 56 and the left plate 57, respectively. That is, in this example, the cover 52 covers the storage space 65. Therefore, in this example, in order for a user to access the storage space 65, the cover 52 needs to be removed from the frame 53. In other words, the components located within the storage space 65 are protected by the cover 52.

[0056] An insertion opening 67 opens in the frame 53. The insertion opening 67 opens in the top plate 63. In this example, the insertion opening 67 opens on the rear side of the top plate 63. When the container 32 is placed on the frame 53, the insertion opening 67 overlaps with the outlet 43.

[0057] An attachment opening 68 is formed in the frame 53. The attachment opening 68 is open to the attachment plate 61. The attachment opening 68 is an opening through which the lead-out portion 151 is attached. 12, the liquid container 31 may include a buffer material 71. The buffer material 71 is located, for example, between the container 32 and the cover 52. In this example, the buffer material 71 is located between the upper wall 35 and the upper plate 55.

[0058] Typically, cover 52 is manufactured larger than container 32, taking into consideration manufacturing errors, installation errors, and the like. As a result, a gap may form between container 32 and cover 52. If a gap forms between container 32 and cover 52, container 32 may move within cover 52. In this regard, buffer material 71 reduces the risk of container 32 moving within cover 52. Furthermore, buffer material 71 makes it difficult for vibrations, shocks, and the like to be transmitted from cover 52 to container 32.

[0059] The liquid container 31 may include a protective lid 72. The protective lid 72 is attached to, for example, the container 32. In this example, the protective lid 72 is attached to the upper wall 35. The protective lid 72 is attached to the upper wall 35 by a hinge 73.

[0060] The protective lid 72 opens and closes relative to the container 32. When the protective lid 72 is closed, it blocks the injection port 42. In this way, the protective lid 72 protects the injection port 42. When the protective lid 72 is opened, the injection port 42 is exposed. In this case, the user can inject liquid through the injection port 42.

[0061] The liquid container 31 may include a seal ring 74. The seal ring 74 is located between the container 32 and the protective lid 72. In this example, the seal ring 74 is attached to the container 32. More specifically, the seal ring 74 is attached to the upper wall 35 so as to surround the inlet 42.

[0062] When the protective lid 72 is closed, the seal ring 74 seals the container 32 and the protective lid 72. This reduces the risk of foreign matter entering the injection port 42 when the protective lid 72 is closed.

[0063] An atmosphere vent port 75 may be formed in the container 32 or the protective lid 72. The atmosphere vent port 75 is an opening that opens the storage chamber 41 to the atmosphere. By opening the storage chamber 41 to the atmosphere, the liquid in the storage chamber 41 is smoothly discharged through the outlet 43. The atmosphere vent port 75 is particularly useful when the container 32 and the protective lid 72 are sealed by a seal ring 74. In this example, the atmosphere vent port 75 is formed in the protective lid 72.

[0064] The liquid container 31 may include a locking mechanism 76. The locking mechanism 76 is a mechanism that locks the closed protective lid 72 to the container 32. The locking mechanism 76 is attached to the container 32 and the protective lid 72. By locking the protective lid 72 with the locking mechanism 76, the risk of the protective lid 72 opening unintentionally is reduced.

[0065] The liquid container 31 includes a filter portion 81. The filter portion 81 is attached to the container 32. The filter portion 81 can also be removed from the container 32. The filter portion 81 is detachable from the container 32. The filter portion 81 is located at the injection port 42.

[0066] The filter unit 81 is configured to capture foreign matter. The filter unit 81 reduces the risk of foreign matter entering the container 32 through the injection port 42. The filter unit 81 includes, for example, a holding member 82 and one or more filters. In this example, the filter unit 81 includes the holding member 82, a first filter 83, and a second filter 84.

[0067] When liquid is injected through the inlet 42, the liquid passes through the filter section 81. The liquid injected through the inlet 42 passes through the first filter 83 and then the second filter 84. Therefore, in this example, the first filter 83 is the primary filter. The second filter 84 is the secondary filter through which the liquid that has passed through the primary filter passes. Foreign matter is removed from the liquid by passing the liquid through one or more filters.

[0068] The holding member 82 holds the first filter 83 and the second filter 84. The holding member 82 is fitted into the injection port 42. The holding member 82 is configured to allow liquid to pass through. In this example, the holding member 82 is a stainless steel mesh filter. Therefore, in this example, the holding member 82 also functions as a tertiary filter. The liquid that has passed through the first filter 83 and the second filter 84 passes through the tertiary filter.

[0069] The holding member 82 has a rim portion 85 and a protruding portion 86. The rim portion 85 contacts the rim of the upper wall 35 that defines the injection port 42. The holding member 82 is attached to the container 32 by hooking the rim portion 85 onto the upper wall 35. The protruding portion 86 is continuous with the rim portion 85. The protruding portion 86 is a portion that protrudes from the rim portion 85 into the container 32. Therefore, the protruding portion 86 is located in the storage chamber 41.

[0070] One or more filters are housed within the protruding portion 86. That is, the protruding portion 86 holds a first filter 83 and a second filter 84. In this example, the first filter 83 and the second filter 84 are located above the bottom of the protruding portion 86. Therefore, the liquid that passes through the first filter 83 and the second filter 84 passes through the bottom of the protruding portion 86.

[0071] The first filter 83 is, for example, a sponge filter. The first filter 83 is the filter in the filter section 81 that first comes into contact with the liquid injected from the injection port 42. In this example, the first filter 83 is located above the second filter 84.

[0072] The second filter 84 is, for example, a sponge filter. The second filter 84 is a filter in the filter section 81 that comes into contact with the liquid that has passed through the first filter 83. The second filter 84 is located below the first filter 83. In this example, the second filter 84 is stacked on top of the first filter 83.

[0073] The mesh size of the primary filter is coarser than that of the secondary filter. In this example, the mesh size of the first filter 83 is coarser than that of the second filter 84. That is, the filtration particle size of the first filter 83 is larger than that of the second filter 84. The filtration particle size refers to, for example, the particle size at which a capture rate of 99% or more of standard particles of known particle size is achieved when the standard particles are filtered. For example, the filtration particle size of the first filter 83 is 70 micrometers. For example, the filtration particle size of the second filter 84 is 13 micrometers.

[0074] The smaller the filtering particle size of a filter, the finer the foreign matter that is captured. On the other hand, the smaller the filtering particle size of a filter, the greater the pressure loss when a liquid passes through the filter. In other words, the smaller the filtering particle size of a filter, the more difficult it is for a liquid to pass through the filter. In a filter, there is a trade-off between filtering particle size and pressure loss.

[0075] If the liquid has difficulty passing through the filter, the liquid injection will be delayed. If the liquid has difficulty passing through the filter, the liquid may accumulate in the filter. In this case, the injected liquid may bounce back from the filter. If the liquid bounces back from the filter, the liquid may splash around the injection port 42.

[0076] In this example, when liquid is injected through the injection port 42, the liquid first comes into contact with the first filter 83. Because the mesh of the first filter 83 is coarse, the liquid easily passes through the first filter 83. Therefore, the liquid does not accumulate in the first filter 83. This reduces the risk of the injected liquid scattering.

[0077] The liquid that has passed through the first filter 83 comes into contact with the second filter 84. The mesh of the second filter 84 is fine, so that fine foreign matter is captured by the second filter 84. In other words, the second filter 84 captures the foreign matter that has passed through the first filter 83.

[0078] Because the mesh of the second filter 84 is fine, the injected liquid may accumulate in the second filter 84. The speed of the injected liquid is reduced as it passes through the first filter 83. Therefore, even if the liquid accumulates in the second filter 84, there is little risk of the liquid bouncing off the second filter 84. Furthermore, even if the liquid bounces off the second filter 84, the liquid is caught by the first filter 83. Therefore, there is little risk of the liquid splashing around the injection port 42.

[0079] The mesh size of the holding member 82, which functions as a tertiary filter, may be coarser than the mesh size of the first filter 83, or may be finer than the mesh size of the second filter 84. Furthermore, the mesh size of the holding member 82 may be finer than the mesh size of the first filter 83 and coarser than the mesh size of the second filter 84. When the mesh size of the holding member 82 is finer than the mesh size of the second filter 84, the filter section 81 can capture smaller foreign matter.

[0080] 10, the liquid container 31 includes a discharge mechanism 91. The discharge mechanism 91 is a mechanism that discharges the liquid from the container 32 to the connector 21. The discharge mechanism 91 is connected to the outlet 43 and the connector 21.

[0081] The discharge mechanism 91 has a valve unit 92. The valve unit 92 is configured to be openable and closable. The valve unit 92 controls the flow of liquid by opening and closing. When the valve unit 92 is open, liquid can be discharged from the container 32 to the connecting body 21. When the valve unit 92 is closed, liquid cannot be discharged from the container 32 to the connecting body 21.

[0082] In this example, the valve unit 92 is attached to the container 32. More specifically, the valve unit 92 is attached to the bottom wall 36. The valve unit 92 is attached so as to overlap with the outlet 43. That is, the valve unit 92 is attached to the rear side of the bottom wall 36. The valve unit 92 is not limited to being directly connected to the container 32, and may be connected to the container 32 via a tube, for example. The valve unit 92 is positioned in the accommodation space 65 through the insertion port 67. That is, the valve unit 92 is accommodated in the frame 53.

[0083] The valve unit 92 is configured to open and close depending on the remaining amount of liquid contained in the container 32. For example, the valve unit 92 closes when the remaining amount of liquid contained in the container 32 becomes zero or very small. This reduces the risk of air flowing from the liquid container 31 to the liquid discharger 11. In this example, the valve unit 92 is a float valve that automatically opens and closes depending on the remaining amount of liquid contained in the container 32.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 13, the valve portion 92 includes a holder 93 , a float 94 , and a seal member 95 . The holder 93 has a cylindrical shape and houses a float 94 and a seal member 95. The liquid flows from the container 32 to the connector 21 by passing through the holder 93.

[0085] The holder 93 has a liquid chamber 96, an inflow path 97, and an outflow path 98. The liquid chamber 96 is a space that houses a float 94 and a seal member 95. The liquid chamber 96 communicates with the inflow path 97 and the outflow path 98. Liquid flows into the liquid chamber 96 through the inflow path 97. Liquid flows out of the liquid chamber 96 through the outflow path 98.

[0086] The liquid chamber 96 is defined by an inflow surface 101, an outflow surface 102, and an inner circumferential surface 103. The inflow surface 101, the outflow surface 102, and the inner circumferential surface 103 are surfaces that the holder 93 has inside.

[0087] The inlet flow surface 101 is a surface where the inlet channel 97 opens. The inlet flow surface 101 is located above the outlet flow surface 102. The outflow surface 102 is the surface where the outflow passage 98 opens. The outflow surface 102 is located below the inflow surface 101. The float 94 moves between the inflow surface 101 and the outflow surface 102. More specifically, the float 94 moves so as to approach the inflow surface 101 and the outflow surface 102.

[0088] The inner circumferential surface 103 is continuous with the inlet surface 101 and the outlet surface 102. The inner circumferential surface 103 extends in a circular shape when the holder 93 is viewed from above. In other words, the shape of the liquid chamber 96 is cylindrical when the holder 93 is viewed from above.

[0089] 14 and 15, in this example, the holder 93 has two types of inflow channels 97. Specifically, the holder 93 has a first inflow channel 97A and a second inflow channel 97B. In this example, the holder 93 has one first inflow channel 97A and four second inflow channels 97B.

[0090] The first inlet channel 97A is located at the center when the holder 93 is viewed from above. The four second inlet channels 97B are located around the first inlet channel 97A when the holder 93 is viewed from above. The first inlet channel 97A and the second inlet channels 97B each communicate with the outlet 43.

[0091] The second inlet channels 97B are defined by the forming surfaces 104. The forming surfaces 104 are surfaces that the holder 93 has on its interior. The forming surfaces 104 are connected to the inlet surfaces 101, respectively.

[0092] 13, the first inlet channel 97A is defined by a first inner surface 105, a stepped surface 106, a second inner surface 107, and an inclined surface 108. The first inner surface 105, the stepped surface 106, the second inner surface 107, and the inclined surface 108 are surfaces that the holder 93 has inside.

[0093] The first inner surface 105, the step surface 106, the second inner surface 107, and the inclined surface 108 are connected in this order from the outlet 43 toward the liquid chamber 96. That is, the first inner surface 105 is connected to the step surface 106. The step surface 106 is connected to the first inner surface 105 and the second inner surface 107. The second inner surface 107 is connected to the step surface 106 and the inclined surface 108. The inclined surface 108 is connected to the second inner surface 107 and the inlet surface 101.

[0094] The first inlet channel 97A extends from the outlet 43 toward the liquid chamber 96 so that its cross-sectional area increases. Therefore, when the holder 93 is viewed from above, the diameter of the circle formed by the first inner surface 105 is smaller than the diameter of the circle formed by the second inner surface 107. The inclined surface 108 is inclined so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the first inlet channel 97A increases from the outlet 43 toward the liquid chamber 96.

[0095] The outflow path 98 is defined by a defining surface 109. The defining surface 109 is a surface that the holder 93 has inside. The defining surface 109 is continuous with the outflow surface 102. In this example, the holder 93 has a first contact portion 111 and a second contact portion 112. The first contact portion 111 and the second contact portion 112 are formed on the outflow surface 102. The first contact portion 111 and the second contact portion 112 are portions that come into contact with the seal member 95 on the outflow surface 102. In this example, the first contact portion 111 and the second contact portion 112 are portions that protrude from the outflow surface 102.

[0096] When the holder 93 is viewed from above, the first contact portion 111 is located on the outflow surface 102 so as to surround the outflow path 98. It can also be said that the outflow path 98 opens into the first contact portion 111. When the holder 93 is viewed from above, the first contact portion 111 extends in an annular shape.

[0097] When the holder 93 is viewed from above, the second contact portion 112 is located on the outflow surface 102 so as to surround the first contact portion 111. When the holder 93 is viewed from above, the second contact portion 112 extends in an annular shape.

[0098] The float 94 is located in the liquid chamber 96. The mass of the float 94 is smaller than the mass of the liquid contained in the container 32. Therefore, the float 94 floats relative to the liquid. As the remaining amount of liquid contained in the container 32 decreases, the liquid level drops to the liquid chamber 96. Specifically, when the remaining amount of liquid contained in the container 32 becomes zero, the liquid level drops to the liquid chamber 96. The float 94 moves according to the position of the liquid level. In this way, the float 94 moves depending on the remaining amount of liquid contained in the container 32. The valve portion 92 opens and closes as the float 94 moves.

[0099] The float 94 has a first opposing surface 121, a second opposing surface 122, and an outer peripheral surface 123. The first opposing surface 121 is a surface that faces the inlet surface 101. In this example, the first opposing surface 121 is an upper surface of the float 94. The second opposing surface 122 is a surface that faces the outlet surface 102. In this example, the second opposing surface 122 is a lower surface of the float 94. The outer peripheral surface 123 is a surface that faces the inner peripheral surface 103. The outer peripheral surface 123 is continuous with the first opposing surface 121 and the second opposing surface 122.

[0100] 16 and 17, in this example, the shape of the float 94 is a rectangular parallelepiped. The outer peripheral surface 123 extends in a rectangular shape when the float 94 is viewed from above. The float 94 has an attachment portion 124. The seal member 95 is attached to the attachment portion 124. The attachment portion 124 is formed on the second opposing surface 122.

[0101] The attachment portion has, for example, a first rib 125 and a second rib 126. The seal member 95 is fitted between the first rib 125 and the second rib 126, whereby the seal member 95 is attached to the attachment portion .

[0102] 18, the mounting portion 124 has a displacement space 127. The displacement space 127 is a space defined by the first rib 125 and the seal member 95. The displacement space 127 is a space for the seal member 95 to be displaced when the seal member 95 comes into contact with the first contact portion 111.

[0103] When the float 94 approaches the outflow surface 102, the first contact portion 111 comes into contact with the seal member 95 so as to bite into the mounting portion 124. The seal member 95 is deformed by coming into contact with the first contact portion 111. At this time, the seal member 95 bends so as to reduce the volume of the displacement space 127.

[0104] The float 94 may tilt in position in the liquid chamber 96. For example, the second opposing surface 122 may not be parallel to the outflow surface 102. When the float 94 tilts, the seal member 95 also tilts. As a result, the first contact portion 111 may not be able to properly contact the seal member 95.

[0105] In this example, the first contact portion 111 contacts the seal member 95 so as to bite into the mounting portion 124. In this case, even if the seal member 95 is tilted, the seal member 95 deforms to match the first contact portion 111. This allows the first contact portion 111 to appropriately contact the seal member 95. In other words, the seal member 95 can seal between the holder 93 and the float 94. In this way, the displacement space 127 can accommodate tilting of the float 94.

[0106] Without the displacement space 127, when the float 94 tilts, the seal member 95 does not deform even when the first contact portion 111 comes into contact with the seal member 95. Therefore, the seal member 95 remains tilted. In this case, there is a risk that the seal member 95 will not be able to seal between the holder 93 and the float 94.

[0107] 16, 17, and 18, the mounting portion 124 has a retraction groove 128. The retraction groove 128 extends so as to cut through the first rib 125 and the second rib 126. The retraction groove 128 is a groove that allows the space between the seal member 95 and the mounting portion 124 to communicate with the outside. The space between the seal member 95 and the mounting portion 124 includes a displacement space 127.

[0108] When the sealing member 95 is attached to the mounting portion 124, air is discharged from the space between the sealing member 95 and the mounting portion 124 to the outside through the evacuation groove 128. In other words, the evacuation groove 128 makes it easier to attach the sealing member 95 to the mounting portion 124. If the evacuation groove 128 were not present, attaching the sealing member 95 to the mounting portion 124 would seal the space between the sealing member 95 and the mounting portion 124. In this case, air would accumulate in the space between the sealing member 95 and the mounting portion 124, making it difficult to attach the sealing member 95 to the mounting portion 124.

[0109] As shown in FIG. 13 , when the liquid level in the liquid chamber 96 drops as the liquid is discharged from the liquid container 31 to the liquid discharger 11, the float 94 approaches the outflow surface 102. As a result, the seal member 95 comes into contact with the outflow surface 102, thereby blocking the outflow path 98. Thus, when the liquid contained in the container 32 is depleted, the valve unit 92 closes the outflow path 98. In this example, the seal member 95 comes into contact with the first contact portion 111 and the second contact portion 112. That is, the seal member 95 provides a double seal between the holder 93 and the float 94. This improves the sealing performance of the seal member 95. Furthermore, the holder 93 and the float 94 can be sealed by either the first contact portion 111 or the second contact portion 112 appropriately contacting the seal member 95. Therefore, even if the float 94 is tilted, the holder 93 and the float 94 can be easily sealed appropriately.

[0110] When the liquid level in the liquid chamber 96 rises due to the injection of liquid into the container 32, the float 94 approaches the inflow surface 101. As a result, the seal member 95 moves away from the outflow surface 102. This allows the liquid to be discharged from the liquid container 31 to the liquid discharger 11.

[0111] When liquid is contained in the container 32, the liquid chamber 96 is filled with liquid. Therefore, while the container 32 contains liquid, the inflow surface 101 and the first opposing surface 121 continue to be in contact with each other. In this case, there is a risk that the float 94 will stick to the holder 93 due to liquid adhering between the inflow surface 101 and the first opposing surface 121. In this regard, in this example, the contact area between the inflow surface 101 and the first opposing surface 121 is reduced by opening multiple inflow channels 97 in the inflow surface 101. Furthermore, the inclined surface 108 reduces the contact area between the inflow surface 101 and the first opposing surface 121. This reduces the risk that the float 94 will stick to the holder 93.

[0112] 19, in this example, the outer peripheral surface 123 is in contact with the inner peripheral surface 103. Therefore, the float 94 moves while in contact with the outer peripheral surface 123. In other words, the inner peripheral surface 103 guides the movement of the float 94.

[0113] Regardless of whether or not liquid is contained in the container 32, the outer peripheral surface 123 continues to contact the inner peripheral surface 103. Therefore, there is a risk that liquid adhering between the outer peripheral surface 123 and the inner peripheral surface 103 may cause the float 94 to stick to the holder 93. In this regard, in this example, when the holder 93 is viewed from above, the inner peripheral surface 103 extends in a circular shape, while the outer peripheral surface 123 extends in a rectangular shape. Therefore, only the corners of the rectangle are in contact with the inner peripheral surface 103. As a result, the contact area between the outer peripheral surface 123 and the inner peripheral surface 103 is reduced compared to, for example, when the outer peripheral surface 123 extends in an arc shape. This reduces the risk that the float 94 will stick to the holder 93.

[0114] When the liquid level drops to the liquid chamber 96, air enters the liquid chamber 96. If air remains in the liquid chamber 96 even though the liquid level has risen to the storage chamber 41 as a result of pouring liquid into the container 32, the float 94 may not move normally. In this regard, in this example, the inclined surface 108 makes it easier for the air remaining in the liquid chamber 96 to return to the storage chamber 41.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 13 , the valve unit 92 may have guide members 131. In this example, the valve unit 92 has two guide members 131. The guide members 131 are, for example, rods. The guide members 131 are attached to the holder 93. The guide members 131 are located in the liquid chamber 96. The guide members 131 extend from the outflow surface 102 toward the inflow surface 101. The guide members 131 guide the movement of the float 94. In this case, the float 94 has an insertion portion 132 into which the guide members 131 are inserted. The insertion portion 132 protrudes from the outer circumferential surface 123, for example.

[0116] The valve portion 92 may have a spring. In this example, the valve portion 92 has a first spring 133 and a second spring 134. The first spring 133 and the second spring 134 press the float 94 against the holder 93. This makes it easier for the float 94 to move. Furthermore, the first spring 133 and the second spring 134 reduce the risk of the float 94 sticking to the holder 93.

[0117] The first spring 133 presses the float 94 against the outflow surface 102. The first spring 133 is located between the holder 93 and the float 94. The first spring 133 contacts the holder 93 and the float 94. More specifically, the first spring 133 contacts the step surface 106 and the first opposing surface 121.

[0118] The second spring 134 presses the float 94 against the inflow surface 101. The second spring 134 is located between the holder 93 and the float 94. The second spring 134 contacts the float 94 and the seal member 95. More specifically, the second spring 134 contacts the outflow surface 102 and the seal member 95.

[0119] 10, the discharge mechanism 91 has a first joint 136. The first joint 136 is attached to the valve portion 92. More specifically, the first joint 136 is attached to the holder 93. The first joint 136 is connected to the outflow path 98.

[0120] The discharge mechanism 91 has a first discharge pipe 137. The first discharge pipe 137 is, for example, a tube. The first discharge pipe 137 is connected to a first joint 136. In this example, the first discharge pipe 137 extends through the accommodation space 65.

[0121] The discharge mechanism 91 has a sub-filter portion 141. The sub-filter portion 141 is connected to the first discharge pipe 137. That is, the sub-filter portion 141 is located downstream of the valve portion 92 in the discharge mechanism 91. By having the sub-filter portion 141 located downstream of the valve portion 92, air that has entered the valve portion 92 can be more easily returned to the accommodation chamber 41. The sub-filter portion 141 is located in the accommodation space 65. The sub-filter portion 141 is connected to the valve portion 92 by the first joint 136 and the first discharge pipe 137.

[0122] The sub-filter section 141 is configured to capture foreign matter. The sub-filter section 141 has, for example, a capsule 142 and a sub-filter 143. The capsule 142 houses the sub-filter 143. The liquid flows from the container 32 to the connector 21 by passing through the capsule 142.

[0123] The sub-filter 143 is, for example, a nonwoven fabric filter. The sub-filter 143 captures foreign matter from the liquid passing through the capsule 142. In this example, the sub-filter 143 is a fourth-order filter.

[0124] The sub-filter section 141 is configured to capture finer foreign matter than the filter section 81. In other words, the capturing ability of the sub-filter section 141 is higher than that of the filter section 81. The capturing ability of the sub-filter section 141 depends on the sub-filter 143. The capturing ability of the filter section 81 depends on the finest mesh of the filters it contains. Therefore, the mesh size of the sub-filter 143 is finer than that of the second filter 84. In other words, the filtration particle size of the sub-filter 143 is smaller than that of the second filter 84. The filtration particle size of the sub-filter 143 is, for example, 5 micrometers.

[0125] When the liquid is guided from the liquid container 31 to the liquid discharger 11, the filter unit 81 and the sub-filter unit 141 are required to have different collection capacities. The filter unit 81 requires a certain liquid passage speed to smoothly inject the liquid into the container 32. Therefore, the filter unit 81 only needs to collect foreign matter to the extent that the valve unit 92 can operate normally. The sub-filter unit 141 is required to collect foreign matter so that the discharge unit 13 can operate normally.

[0126] In general, the discharge portion 13 is more precise than the valve portion 92. Therefore, the liquid flowing through the discharge portion 13 needs to be filtered more finely than the liquid flowing through the valve portion 92. The filter portion 81 filters the liquid so that the valve portion 92 can operate normally. The sub-filter portion 141 filters the liquid so that the discharge portion 13 can operate normally. By capturing foreign matter in two stages, the filter portion 81 and the sub-filter portion 141, it becomes easier to inject the liquid while properly capturing the foreign matter.

[0127] If filter section 81 has a fine-mesh filter such as sub-filter 143, sub-filter section 141 is not necessary. However, in this case, the liquid must pass through the fine-mesh filter in filter section 81, which causes a delay in the injection of the liquid.

[0128] The discharge mechanism 91 has a second discharge pipe 146. The second discharge pipe 146 is, for example, a tube. The second discharge pipe 146 is connected to the sub-filter unit 141. In this example, the second discharge pipe 146 is connected to the capsule 142.

[0129] The discharge mechanism 91 has a second joint 147. The second joint 147 is connected to a second discharge pipe 146. The outlet mechanism 91 includes an outlet section 151. The outlet section 151 is connected to the second joint 147. The outlet section 151 is located downstream of the sub-filter section 141 in the outlet mechanism 91. The outlet section 151 is connected to the sub-filter section 141 by the second outlet pipe 146 and the second joint 147. The outlet section 151 is connected to the connector 21. In other words, the outlet section 151 is connected to the liquid discharger 11. The outlet section 151 is located both inside and outside the accommodation space 65.

[0130] The outlet section 151 constitutes the downstream end of the outlet mechanism 91. In this example, in the outlet mechanism 91, the valve section 92, the first joint 136, the first outlet pipe 137, the sub-filter section 141, the second outlet pipe 146, the second joint 147, and the outlet section 151 are arranged in this order. The positions of the valve section 92 and the sub-filter section 141 may be reversed. For example, the valve section 92 may be located downstream of the sub-filter section 141. The valve section 92 may be located between the outlet 43 and the outlet section 151. Similarly, the sub-filter section 141 may be located between the outlet 43 and the outlet section 151. The outlet section 151 leads the liquid discharged from the outlet 43 to the liquid discharger 11.

[0131] The outlet portion 151 is located on a surface facing forward in the liquid container 31. In this example, the outlet portion 151 is attached to the frame 53. The outlet portion 151 is attached to the mounting plate 61.

[0132] 20, the outlet portion 151 has a first member 152, a fixing plate 153, and a second member 154. The liquid flows from the container 32 to the connector 21 by passing through the first member 152 and the second member 154.

[0133] The first member 152 is a member that is attached to the fixed plate 153. The first member 152 is connected to the second joint 147. The first member 152 has a base portion 155 and an insertion portion 156. The base portion 155 is a portion that is connected to the second joint 147. The base portion 155 is fixed to the fixed plate 153. The insertion portion 156 is a portion that extends from the base portion 155. The insertion portion 156 is inserted into the fixed plate 153.

[0134] The insertion portion 156 has a cylindrical shape. The insertion portion 156 has a fitting portion 157. The fitting portion 157 is a portion that fits into the fixing plate 153. The fitting portion 157 is located at the base end of the insertion portion 156.

[0135] The insertion portion 156 has a plurality of hooks 158. The plurality of hooks 158 are located at the tip of the insertion portion 156. The plurality of hooks 158 are members for connecting the first member 152 and the second member 154. The first member 152 and the second member 154 are connected by the plurality of hooks 158 being hooked onto the second member 154.

[0136] An insertion hole 159 is opened in the fixing plate 153. The insertion portion 156 is inserted into the insertion hole 159. The diameter of the insertion hole 159 is approximately the same as the diameter of the fitting portion 157. Therefore, when the insertion portion 156 is inserted into the insertion hole 159, the fitting portion 157 fits into the insertion hole 159. This positions the first member 152 with respect to the fixing plate 153. The first member 152 is fixed to the fixing plate 153 by, for example, a screw, with the fitting portion 157 fitting into the insertion hole 159. The fixing plate 153 is attached to the mounting plate 61. This fixes the lead-out portion 151 to the mounting plate 61.

[0137] The second member 154 is a member that is connected to the connecting body 21. The second member 154 has a connecting pipe 161 and a connecting portion 162. The connecting pipe 161 is inserted into the connecting body 21. Liquid is guided from the connecting pipe 161 to the connecting body 21. The connecting portion 162 is a portion that is connected to the first member 152. The inserting portion 156 is inserted into the connecting portion 162.

[0138] 21 and 22, a plurality of connection ports 163 are formed in the connection portion 162. The plurality of connection ports 163 correspond to the plurality of hooks 158. When the insertion portion 156 is inserted into the connection portion 162, the hooks 158 are positioned within the connection ports 163. As a result, the hooks 158 are caught on the connection portion 162. When the hooks 158 are caught on the connection portion 162, the first member 152 and the second member 154 are connected to each other.

[0139] As shown in FIG. 23 , the lead-out portion 151 may have a circuit board 164. The circuit board 164 is a board for detecting the connection between the lead-out portion 151 and the connector 21. The circuit board 164 is connected to the connector 27. The circuit board 164 is attached to the second member 154. The circuit board 164 is located, for example, above the connecting pipe 161. This reduces the risk that liquid dripping from the connecting pipe 161 will come into contact with the circuit board 164.

[0140] The circuit board 164 has one or more connection terminals 165. The connection terminals 165 are terminals that are connected to the connection portion 27. The connection terminals 165 come into contact with the connection portion 27 as the connector 21 is connected to the lead-out portion 151. The contact between the connection terminals 165 and the connection portion 27 connects the circuit board 164 and the connection portion 27. This allows the liquid ejection device 11 to detect that it has been connected to the liquid container 31.

[0141] Next, the operation and effects of the above embodiment will be described. (1) The liquid container 31 includes a container 32 that contains a liquid and a filter unit 81 that collects foreign matter. The container 32 has an inlet 42 for injecting the liquid into the container 32 and an outlet 43 for discharging the liquid from the container 32. The filter unit 81 is located at the inlet 42. According to the above configuration, the filter unit 81 reduces the risk of foreign matter in the liquid, foreign matter in the air, etc. entering the container 32 through the inlet 42.

[0142] (2) The filter unit 81 has a first filter 83 which is a primary filter, and a second filter 84 which is a secondary filter through which the liquid that has passed through the primary filter passes. The mesh size of the first filter 83 is coarser than that of the second filter 84.

[0143] Liquid injected through the inlet 42 may splash when it comes into contact with the filter. In particular, the finer the mesh of the filter, the more difficult it is for liquid to pass through the filter, and liquid is more likely to accumulate on the filter. In this case, there is a risk of liquid splashing when it bounces off the filter.

[0144] According to the above configuration, the liquid injected through the injection port 42 comes into contact with the first filter 83 before the second filter 84. Because the mesh of the first filter 83 is coarse, the liquid easily passes through the first filter 83. In other words, the liquid is less likely to accumulate in the first filter 83. Therefore, compared to when the liquid comes into contact with the second filter 84 before the first filter 83, the risk of the liquid splashing is reduced.

[0145] (3) The liquid container 31 includes an outlet 151 that is connected to the liquid ejection device 11. The outlet 151 is located on the front-facing surface of the liquid container 31, and directs the liquid discharged from the outlet 43 to the liquid ejection device 11. This configuration makes it easy for the user to connect the outlet 151 to the liquid ejection device 11 from the front of the liquid container 31.

[0146] (4) The container 32 has a front wall 33 and a viewing portion 44 for viewing the liquid level of the liquid contained therein. The inlet 42 is located on the upper side and front side of the container 32. The viewing portion 44 is located on the front wall 33.

[0147] According to the above configuration, because the injection port 42 is located on the front side of the container 32, the user can easily inject liquid from a position facing the front wall 33. Furthermore, because the visual confirmation portion 44 is located on the front wall 33, the user can inject liquid while checking the liquid level in the container 32 through the visual confirmation portion 44.

[0148] (5) The liquid container 31 includes a cover 52 that covers the container 32 so as to expose at least the visual recognition portion 44 . According to the above configuration, the cover 52 can protect the container 32 without impairing the function of the visual confirmation portion 44.

[0149] (6) The liquid container 31 is located between the outlet 43 and the outlet portion 151 and includes an openable and closable valve portion 92, and a frame 53 that supports the container 32 from below. The frame 53 defines a storage space 65 below the container 32 that is accessible from the outside. The valve portion 92 is located in the storage space 65. With this configuration, if a malfunction occurs in the valve portion 92, the valve portion 92 can be easily accessed. Therefore, maintenance of the valve portion 92 is easy.

[0150] (7) The liquid container 31 includes a sub-filter portion 141 located between the outlet 43 and the outlet portion 151. The sub-filter portion 141 is located in the storage space 65. According to the above configuration, if a problem occurs in the sub-filter section 141, the sub-filter section 141 can be easily accessed. Therefore, maintenance of the sub-filter section 141 is easy.

[0151] (8) The frame 53 has a mounting plate 61 to which the outlet portion 151 is attached. The mounting plate 61 is located below the front wall 33 and extends to be continuous with the front wall 33. The container 32 has a bottom wall 36. The outlet 43 opens in the bottom wall 36 and is located on the rear side of the container 32.

[0152] According to the above configuration, the outlet 43 is located at the rear side of the container 32, so that a space is created between the outlet part 151 and the outlet 43 in the accommodation space 65. Therefore, it is easy to accommodate the valve part 92 and the sub-filter part 141 in the accommodation space 65.

[0153] (9) The cover 52 may cover the storage space 65 . According to the above configuration, the valve section 92 and the sub-filter section 141 can be protected by the cover 52.

[0154] (10) The cover 52 is fixed to the frame 53 . When the cover 52 is fixed to the container 32, for example, if a force is applied to the cover 52, the force is likely to be transmitted to the container 32. In this regard, according to the above configuration, the cover 52 is fixed to the frame 53, so even if a force is applied to the cover 52, the force is unlikely to be transmitted to the container 32. Therefore, the container 32 can be effectively protected.

[0155] (11) The valve portion 92 has a float 94 that moves depending on the amount of liquid remaining in the container 32, and opens and closes as the float 94 moves. According to the above-described configuration, the valve section 92 opens and closes without the need for electrical control, and therefore the configuration of the valve section 92 can be simplified.

[0156] (12) The cover 52 has a grip portion 59 for the user to grip. According to the above configuration, the liquid container 31 can be easily carried by the user. (13) The liquid ejection device 11 includes a connector 21 connected to the outlet portion 151. The connector 21 has a connection portion 27 for detecting connection with the liquid container 31. The outlet portion 151 has a circuit board 164 connected to the connection portion 27. The circuit board 164 has a connection terminal 165 that contacts the connection portion 27. According to the above configuration, the liquid ejection device 11 can detect connection with the liquid container 31 by the connection between the connection portion 27 and the circuit board 164.

[0157] (14) The collection capacity of the sub-filter section 141 is higher than the collection capacity of the filter section 81. In general, the discharge portion 13 is more precise than the valve portion 92. Therefore, the liquid flowing through the discharge portion 13 needs to be filtered more finely than the liquid flowing through the valve portion 92. For example, if foreign matter is to be captured by the filter portion 81 so that the discharge portion 13 operates normally, a fine-mesh filter needs to be applied to the filter portion 81. In this case, while the foreign matter is properly captured by the filter portion 81, the injection of the liquid is hindered.

[0158] According to the above configuration, foreign matter is captured in stages by filter portion 81 and sub-filter portion 141. By providing sub-filter portion 141 with a fine-mesh filter, a coarse-mesh filter can be used for filter portion 81. Filter portion 81 captures foreign matter so that valve portion 92 operates normally, and sub-filter portion 141 captures foreign matter so that discharge portion 13 operates normally, thereby ensuring smooth injection of liquid while adequately capturing foreign matter.

[0159] This embodiment can be modified as follows: This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other within the scope of technical compatibility. 24, the holding member 82 may not function as a filter, but may simply serve as a member for holding the filter. For example, the filter unit 81 may have a primary filter, a secondary filter, and a holding member 82 that does not function as a filter. Alternatively, the filter unit 81 may have a primary filter and a holding member 82 that does not function as a filter.

[0160] The filter unit 81 may have a configuration including a primary filter and a holding member 82 that functions as a secondary filter. In this case, the mesh size of the holding member 82 is finer than that of the primary filter.

[0161] 25, the holder 93 and the float 94 may be sealed by contact between the first contact portion 111 and the seal member 95. In other words, the holder 93 does not need to have the second contact portion 112. Even in this case, the displacement space 127 can accommodate tilting of the float 94.

[0162] 26, the mounting portion 124 may be configured to receive the portion of the seal member 95 that comes into contact with the first contact portion 111. In other words, the mounting portion 124 may be configured so as not to define the displacement space 127. Even in this case, the first contact portion 111 and the second contact portion 112 can accommodate tilting of the float 94.

[0163] The injection port 42 is not limited to being located in the top wall 35, and may be located in, for example, the front wall 33. The injection port 42 may be located in the rear wall 34, the right side wall 37, or the left side wall 38. The injection port 42 may be located at the top of the container 32.

[0164] The outlet 43 is not limited to being opened in the bottom wall 36, but may be opened in the front wall 33, for example. The inlet 42 may be opened in the rear wall 34, the right side wall 37, or the left side wall 38. The outlet 43 may be opened on the lower side of the container 32.

[0165] Only the portion of the container 32 exposed by the exposure opening 58 may be made of a transparent or translucent resin. The upper wall 35 may include a sloping wall. The sloping wall is, for example, a wall that faces upward and forward. The sloping wall may also be a wall that faces upward and rearward, a wall that faces upward and rightward, or a wall that faces upward and leftward. The inlet 42 may open into the sloping wall.

[0166] The valve unit 92 may be an electromagnetic valve that electrically opens and closes depending on the amount of liquid remaining in the container 32. In this case, the liquid container 31 has, for example, a sensor that detects the amount of liquid remaining in the container 32. The valve unit 92 opens and closes based on the detection result of the sensor.

[0167] The valve portion 92 may be located outside the accommodation space 65 . The sub-filter section 141 may be located outside the accommodation space 65 . The technical concepts and effects that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described below.

[0168] (A) The liquid container is a liquid container connected to a liquid ejection device that ejects liquid, and includes a container for storing liquid and a filter unit for collecting foreign matter, the container having an inlet for injecting liquid into the container and an outlet for discharging liquid from the container, and the filter unit is located at the inlet. With the above configuration, the filter unit reduces the risk of foreign matter in the liquid, foreign matter in the air, etc. entering the container through the inlet.

[0169] (B) In the above liquid container, the filter section may have a primary filter and a secondary filter through which the liquid that has passed through the primary filter passes, and the mesh size of the primary filter may be coarser than the mesh size of the secondary filter.

[0170] Liquid injected through the inlet may splash when it comes into contact with the filter. In particular, the finer the filter mesh, the more difficult it is for liquid to pass through, making it more likely for liquid to accumulate on the filter. In this case, there is a risk of liquid splashing when it bounces off the filter.

[0171] According to the above configuration, the liquid injected through the injection port comes into contact with the primary filter before it comes into contact with the secondary filter. Because the primary filter has a coarse mesh, the liquid easily passes through the primary filter. In other words, the liquid is less likely to accumulate in the primary filter. Therefore, the risk of the liquid splashing is reduced compared to when the liquid comes into contact with the secondary filter before it comes into contact with the primary filter.

[0172] (C) The liquid container may include an outlet portion connected to the liquid ejection device, the outlet portion being located on a surface of the liquid container facing forward, and the liquid discharged from the outlet may be discharged to the liquid ejection device. With the above configuration, a user can easily connect the outlet portion to the liquid ejection device from the front of the liquid container.

[0173] (D) In ​​the above liquid container, the container has a front wall and a viewing portion for viewing the liquid level of the liquid contained therein, the inlet is located above the container and at the front of the container, and the viewing portion may be located on the front wall.

[0174] According to the above configuration, since the inlet is located on the front side of the container, the user can easily pour liquid from a position facing the front wall. Furthermore, since the visual confirmation part is located on the front wall, the user can pour liquid while checking the liquid level inside the container through the visual confirmation part.

[0175] (E) The liquid container may include a cover that covers the container so as to expose at least the visual recognition portion. According to the above configuration, the cover can protect the container without impairing the function of the visual confirmation portion.

[0176] (F) The liquid container may include a valve unit located between the outlet and the outlet portion and capable of opening and closing, and a frame supporting the container from below, the frame defining a storage space below the container that is accessible from the outside, and the valve unit may be located in the storage space. According to the above configuration, if a malfunction occurs in the valve unit, the valve unit can be easily accessed. This makes it easy to perform maintenance on the valve unit.

[0177] (G) The liquid container may include a sub-filter portion located between the outlet and the outlet portion, and the sub-filter portion may be located in the storage space. According to the above configuration, if a problem occurs in the sub-filter section, the sub-filter section can be easily accessed, which makes it easy to maintain the sub-filter section.

[0178] (H) In the above liquid container, the frame may have a mounting plate to which the outlet portion is attached, the mounting plate being located below the front wall and extending to be continuous with the front wall, the container may have a lower wall, and the outlet may open into the lower wall and be located at the rear of the container.

[0179] According to the above configuration, since the outlet is located at the rear side of the container, a space is created between the outlet part and the outlet in the accommodation space, which makes it easy to fit the valve part and the sub-filter part into the accommodation space.

[0180] (I) In the liquid container, the cover may cover the storage space. According to the above configuration, the valve portion and the sub-filter portion can be protected by the cover. (J) In the liquid container described above, the cover may be fixed to the frame. When the cover is fixed to the container, for example, if a force is applied to the cover, the force is likely to be transmitted to the container. In this regard, according to the above configuration, since the cover is fixed to the frame, even if a force is applied to the cover, the force is unlikely to be transmitted to the container. Therefore, the container can be effectively protected.

[0181] (K) In the liquid container described above, the valve portion may have a float that moves depending on the amount of liquid remaining in the container, and may open and close as the float moves. According to the above configuration, the valve portion opens and closes without the need for electrical control, which simplifies the configuration of the valve portion.

[0182] (L) In the liquid container, the cover may have a grip portion that is gripped by a user. According to the above configuration, it becomes easier for the user to carry the liquid container.

[0183] (M) In the above liquid container, the liquid ejection device may include a connector connected to the outlet portion, the connector having a connection portion for detecting connection with the liquid container, the outlet portion having a circuit board connected to the connection portion, and the circuit board having a connection terminal in contact with the connection portion. According to the above configuration, the liquid ejection device can detect connection with the liquid container by the connection between the connection portion and the circuit board.

[0184] (N) In the above liquid container, the liquid ejection device includes an ejection section that ejects liquid, and the liquid container includes an outlet section connected to the liquid ejection device, a valve section that is located between the outlet and the outlet section and can be opened and closed, and a sub-filter section that is located between the valve section and the outlet section, and the outlet section directs the liquid discharged from the outlet to the liquid ejection device, and the collection capacity of the sub-filter section may be higher than the collection capacity of the filter section.

[0185] Generally, the discharge part is more precise than the valve part. Therefore, the liquid flowing through the discharge part needs to be filtered more finely than the liquid flowing through the valve part. For example, if the filter part is used to capture foreign matter so that the discharge part can function properly, a fine filter needs to be applied to the filter part. In this case, while the filter part properly captures foreign matter, the injection of the liquid will be hindered.

[0186] According to the above configuration, foreign matter is captured in stages by the filter section and the sub-filter section. By having a fine-mesh filter in the sub-filter section, a coarse-mesh filter can be used for the filter section. The filter section captures foreign matter so that the valve section operates normally, and the sub-filter section captures foreign matter so that the discharge section operates normally, thereby ensuring smooth liquid injection while adequately capturing foreign matter. [Explanation of symbols]

[0187] 11...liquid discharge device, 12...casing, 13...discharge portion, 14...supply mechanism, 15...nozzle, 21...connector, 22...supply pipe, 23...pump, 24...degassing module, 25...storage portion, 26...pressure regulating valve, 27...connection portion, 28...supply valve, 31...liquid container, 32...container, 33...front wall, 34...rear wall, 35...upper wall, 36...lower wall, 37...right side wall, 38...left side wall, 41...storage chamber, 42...inlet, 43...outlet, 44...visibility portion, 51...protective member, 52...cover, 53...frame, 54...front plate, 55...upper plate, 56...right plate, 57 ...Left plate, 58...exposure port, 59...gripping portion, 61...mounting plate, 62...protective plate, 63...top plate, 64...bottom plate, 65...storage space, 66...opening port, 67...insertion port, 68...mounting port, 71...buffer material, 72...protective cover, 73...hinge, 74...seal ring, 75...atmospheric vent port, 76...locking mechanism, 81...filter portion, 82...holding member, 83...first filter, 84...second filter, 85...edge portion, 86...protruding portion, 91...discharge mechanism, 92...valve portion, 93...holder, 94...float, 95...sealing member, 96...liquid chamber, 97... Inlet passage, 97A...first inlet passage, 97B...second inlet passage, 98...outlet passage, 99...medium, 101...inlet surface, 102...outlet surface, 103...inner peripheral surface, 104...forming surface, 105...first inner surface, 106...step surface, 107...second inner surface, 108...inclined surface, 109...defining surface, 111...first contact portion, 112...second contact portion, 121...first opposing surface, 122...second opposing surface, 123...outer peripheral surface, 124...mounting portion, 125...first rib, 126...second rib, 127...displacement space, 128...retraction groove, 131...guide member, 132...insertion portion, 133 ...First spring, 134...Second spring, 136...First joint, 137...First outlet pipe, 141...Sub-filter section, 142...Capsule, 143...Sub-filter, 146...Second outlet pipe, 147...Second joint, 151...Outlet section, 152...First member, 153...Fixing plate, 154...Second member, 155...Base section, 156...Insertion section, 157...Fitting section, 158...Hook, 159...Insertion hole, 161...Connecting pipe, 162...Connecting section, 163...Connecting port, 164...Circuit board, 165...Connecting terminal, L1...First imaginary line, L2...Second imaginary line.

Claims

1. A liquid container connected to a liquid ejection device that ejects liquid, a container for containing a liquid; A filter part that captures foreign matter; a discharge portion connected to the liquid ejection device, The container contains: an inlet for injecting a liquid into the container; an outlet for discharging liquid from the container; the filter portion is located at the inlet, The container has a front wall, a rear wall opposite to the front wall, and a viewing portion for viewing the liquid level of the liquid contained therein, the inlet is located above the container and at the front of the container; the viewing portion is located on the front wall, The liquid container is characterized in that the outlet portion is located on a surface of the liquid container facing forward, in the direction from the rear wall to the front wall, and outlets the liquid discharged from the outlet to the liquid ejection device.

2. the filter unit has a primary filter and a secondary filter through which the liquid that has passed through the primary filter passes, 2. The liquid container according to claim 1, wherein the mesh size of the primary filter is larger than the mesh size of the secondary filter.

3. 3. The liquid container according to claim 1, further comprising a cover that covers the container so as to expose at least the visual recognition portion.

4. a valve portion that is located between the outlet and the outlet portion and that can be opened and closed; a frame that supports the container from below, the frame defines an externally accessible storage space below the container; The liquid container according to claim 3 , wherein the valve portion is located in the containing space.

5. a sub-filter section located between the outlet and the outlet section, The liquid container according to claim 4 , wherein the sub-filter portion is located in the containing space.

6. the frame has a mounting plate to which the lead-out portion is attached, the mounting plate is located below the front wall and extends to be continuous with the front wall; the container has a bottom wall; The liquid container according to claim 5 , wherein the outlet is open to the bottom wall and is located at the rear side of the container.

7. 7. The liquid container according to claim 5, wherein the cover covers the containing space.

8. 8. The liquid container according to claim 4, wherein the cover is fixed to the frame.

9. The valve portion is a float that moves depending on the amount of liquid remaining in the container; 9. The liquid container according to claim 4, wherein the liquid container opens and closes by movement of the float.

10. 10. The liquid container according to claim 3, wherein the cover has a grip portion that is gripped by a user.

11. the liquid ejection device includes a connector connected to the outlet portion, the connector has a connection portion for detecting connection with the liquid container, the lead-out portion has a circuit board connected to the connection portion, 11. The liquid container according to claim 1, wherein the circuit board has a connection terminal that comes into contact with the connection portion.

12. the liquid ejection device includes an ejection unit that ejects liquid; The liquid container is a valve portion that is located between the outlet and the outlet portion and that can be opened and closed; a sub-filter portion located between the valve portion and the outlet portion, 3. The liquid container according to claim 1, wherein the collection capacity of the sub-filter section is higher than the collection capacity of the filter section.

13. A liquid container connected to a liquid ejection device having an ejection unit that ejects liquid, a container for containing a liquid; a filter unit that collects foreign matter, The container contains: an inlet for injecting a liquid into the container; an outlet for discharging liquid from the container; the filter portion is located at the inlet, The liquid container is a discharge portion connected to the liquid ejection device; a valve portion that is located between the outlet and the outlet portion and that can be opened and closed; a sub-filter portion located between the valve portion and the outlet portion, the outlet portion guides the liquid discharged from the outlet port to the liquid discharge device; A liquid container, wherein the collection capacity of the sub-filter section is higher than the collection capacity of the filter section.

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