Liquid storage container

Abstract

To provide a liquid storage container which can suppress that liquid leaks to an outer part from an atmosphere communication port even when an injection quantity increases.SOLUTION: A liquid storage container 100 includes a housing part 140 which houses a liquid absorption body 170 and is provided with an opening part 140a opposite to a first face 170a of the liquid absorption body 170, a lid member 180 which blocks the opening part 140a, a plurality of ribs 184 which are provided on an inner face 180a of the lid member 180 and are abutted on the first face 170a in such a state that the lid member 180 blocks the opening part 140a, an atmosphere communication port 181 which is provided on the lid member 180 and causes an inner part space 186 to communicate with atmosphere, and at least one first liquid holding passage 10 which is provided on rib 184A adjacent to at least the atmosphere communication port 181 among the plurality of ribs 184, and extends toward the lid member 180 from an abutting surface 184a of the ribs 184. The liquid holding passage 10 is configured to be capable of holding liquid which leaks from the first face 170a.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid container capable of storing a liquid such as ink. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an ink tank that can be detachably attached to an inkjet recording device. The ink tank has a tank case that houses an ink absorber capable of holding ink, and a lid member that closes the opening of the tank case. The inner surface of the lid member is provided with a truncated cone-shaped protrusion and multiple ribs. The protrusion is provided with an air vent that communicates with the atmosphere. When the lid member closes the opening of the tank case, each rib abuts against the ink absorber. A first groove is further formed on the inner surface of the lid member, spaced apart from and surrounding the protrusion, and a second groove is formed within the area surrounded by the first groove, branching off from the first groove and spaced apart from the protrusion. The ink tank is often handled individually during distribution. During transportation, the ink tank changes position, causing ink to seep out of the ink absorber and reach the inner surface of the lid member via the ribs. Near the protrusion, the first and second grooves retain the ink that reaches the inner surface of the lid member. This prevents the ink from entering the air vent. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-248426 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In recent years, the amount of ink injected into ink tanks has been increasing. The ink tank described in Patent Document 1 can also prevent ink from entering the air vent, but with the increase in the amount of ink injected in recent years, further measures have become necessary.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a liquid storage container that can prevent the liquid, such as ink, from leaking to the outside through an atmosphere communication port even when an increased amount of liquid is poured into the container. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, a liquid storage container according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a liquid absorber that absorbs and retains liquid, a storage section that houses the liquid absorber and has an opening facing a first surface of the liquid absorber, a lid member that closes the opening of the storage section, a plurality of ribs that are provided on the inner surface of the lid member facing the storage section and abut against the first surface of the liquid absorber when the lid member is closing the opening, an atmosphere communication port that is provided in the lid member and connects the internal space of the storage section to the atmosphere, and at least one first liquid retention path that is provided in at least one rib of the plurality of ribs adjacent to the atmosphere communication port and extends from the abutting surface of the rib with the first surface toward the lid member, and is configured to be able to retain liquid that has seeped out from the first surface of the liquid absorber,

[0007] According to another aspect of the present invention, a liquid storage container comprises a liquid absorber that absorbs and retains liquid, a storage section that houses the liquid absorber and has an opening facing a first surface of the liquid absorber, a lid member that closes the opening of the storage section, a plurality of ribs that are provided on the inner surface of the lid member facing the storage section and abut against the first surface of the liquid absorber when the lid member closes the opening, and an atmosphere communication port that is provided in the lid member and connects the internal space of the storage section to the atmosphere, and at least one of the plurality of ribs that is adjacent to the atmosphere communication port has a capillary structure that absorbs liquid that seeps out from the first surface of the liquid absorber. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, even if the amount of liquid injected increases, it is possible to prevent the liquid from leaking to the outside through the atmosphere communication port. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a liquid storage container according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid storage container shown in FIG. [Figure 3] 2 is a cross-sectional view partially showing a cross section of the liquid storage container shown in FIG. 1 taken along line AA. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a rib of a lid member. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams showing the state of the liquid when the liquid storage container of the comparative example is rotated once. [Figure 6] 2 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the liquid when the liquid storage container shown in FIG. 1 is rotated once. FIG. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams showing an example of a rib of a cover member used in a liquid storage container according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing an example of a rib of a cover member used in a liquid storage container according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 5 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the rib of the cover member shown in FIG. 4. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the components described in the embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0011] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a liquid container according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The liquid container 100 is a cartridge type container integrated with a print head (a so-called inkjet cartridge). As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid container 100 has a housing 120 equipped with a print head unit 110. The print head unit 110 has a print element substrate equipped with a plurality of print elements that eject liquid such as ink. The print elements are, for example, electrothermal conversion elements having a heating resistor, and are capable of heating the liquid and ejecting droplets by the action of film boiling. 1 is for a single color, the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention can also be applied to a container that contains liquids of multiple colors (for example, a cartridge for three colors). The present invention can also be applied to a liquid container that does not have a recording head unit 110.

[0012] Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid storage container 100 shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 2(a) shows a partially exploded perspective view of the recording head unit 110, and Fig. 2(b) shows an exploded perspective view of the tank portion of the housing 120. As shown in Fig. 2(a), a recess for attaching a recording element substrate 150 is provided on the underside of the storage unit 140, and a liquid flow path 141 is provided in the center of this recess. The recording element substrate 150 is attached to the recess in the storage unit 140, and is electrically connected to an electric wiring board 130 that supplies drive signals and the like from the recording apparatus main body.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 2(b), the storage section 140 stores a liquid absorber 170 that can absorb and retain liquid by capillary action. The storage section 140 has an opening 140a that faces a first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. The liquid absorber 170 is made of, for example, a fibrous absorber. A lid member 180 closes the opening 140a of the storage section 140. The lid member 180 that closes the opening 140a faces the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. The lid member 180 is provided with an air communication port 181 that connects the internal space of the storage section 140 to the atmosphere. A groove 182 is formed in the upper surface of the lid member 180, and a sheet member 190 is provided on this groove 182.

[0014] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view partially showing a cross section taken along line AA of the liquid storage container 100 shown in Fig. 1. One end of the liquid flow path 141 opens to the inner surface (bottom surface) of the internal space 186 of the storage section 140, and a filter 160 is disposed at this opening. The bottom surface (the surface opposite to the first surface 170a) of the liquid absorber 170 is in close contact with the filter 160, and the liquid held in the liquid absorber 170 is supplied to the liquid flow path 141 via the filter 160. The liquid flow path 141 communicates with each recording element of the recording element substrate 150. A plurality of ribs 184 are provided on the inner surface 180a of the lid member 180 on the storage section side. Each rib 184 is plate-shaped and attached perpendicularly to the inner surface 180a of the lid member 180. Each rib 184 abuts against the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 when the lid member 180 closes the opening 140a of the storage section 140. That is, each rib 184 has an abutment surface 184a that abuts against the first surface 170a. The liquid absorber 170 is pressed by each rib 184 and is housed in the internal space 186 of the storage section 140. It is preferable to use a resin (for example, engineering plastic) as the material for the ribs 184. Note that each rib 184 is not limited to being plate-shaped.

[0015] A protrusion 185 is provided on the inner surface 170a of the lid member 170. The protrusion 185 may be, for example, frustum-shaped, but is not limited to this shape. The protrusion 185 is provided with an atmosphere-communicating port 181 that communicates with the atmosphere. The atmosphere-communicating port 181 is formed by a through-hole that penetrates the lid member 170. The internal space 186 communicates with the atmosphere-communicating port 181. The protrusion 185 is spaced from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 when the lid member 180 closes the opening 140a of the storage section 140. The protrusion 185 is provided in the center of the inner surface 170a of the lid member 170. Ribs 184 are arranged on both sides of the protrusion 185. The protrusion 185 may be provided in a portion of the inner surface 170a of the lid member 170 other than the center.

[0016] At least one first liquid retention path 10 is provided in at least the rib 184A adjacent to the protruding portion 185 (atmosphere communication port 181) among the multiple ribs 184. The first liquid retention path 10 extends from the contact surface 184a of the rib 184A toward the lid member 180. The first liquid retention path 10 is configured to be able to retain liquid that has exuded from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. The first liquid retention path 10 is an example of a capillary structure that absorbs liquid that has exuded from the first surface 170a by capillary action.

[0017] The first liquid holding path 10 will now be described in detail. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a rib 184 of the lid member 180. Figure 4(a) is a perspective view showing the appearance of the lid member 180. Figure 4(b) is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of the lid member 180 shown in Figure 4(a) taken along line CC. Figure 4(c) is a schematic plan view showing the lid member 180 as viewed from the side of the inner surface 180a. Figure 4(d) is an enlarged view of a portion of the rib 184A.

[0018] As shown in FIGS. 4(a) to 4(c), a plurality of groove-like channels 1841 are provided in parallel to each other on the side surfaces of two ribs 184A arranged on both sides of the atmosphere communication port 181 as the first liquid holding path 10. As shown in FIG. 4(d), the groove-like channels 1841 terminate in the depth direction (X direction) and have a rectangular cross section. The groove-like channels 1841 can be formed when the cover member 180 is resin-molded. Each groove-like channel 1841 extends in a direction parallel to the short sides of the ribs (Z direction). The width w1 of each groove-like channel 1841 is defined as w1, and the depth d1. The width w1 is the length in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the channel and parallel to the side surfaces of the ribs 184A. The depth d1 is the length in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the channel and perpendicular to the side surfaces of the ribs 184A. The rib 184A has a first side surface 184A-1 located on the side of the atmosphere communication port 181 and a second side surface 184A-2 located on the opposite side to the first side surface 184A-1. In this embodiment, the groove-shaped flow path 1841 is provided on the first side surface 184A-1 of the rib 184A. One end of the groove-shaped flow path 1841 opens to the contact surface 184a of the rib 184A.

[0019] The groove-shaped flow path 1841 is configured to be able to retain liquid that seeps out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. When ink widely used in inkjet recording devices is used as the liquid, the ink has a viscosity of, for example, 1.0 to 3.0 [mPa·s] and a surface tension of, for example, 30 to 40 [mN / m]. The groove-shaped flow path 1841 is formed to generate capillary action in the ink, with a groove width w1 in the range of 0.2 to 1.0 mm and a groove depth d1 in the range of 0.2 to 1.0 mm. From the perspective of retaining ink and effectively generating capillary force (the force that causes capillary action) in the retained ink, it is preferable that the relationship between the width w1 and depth d1 of the groove-shaped flow path 1841 satisfy the condition w1>d1.

[0020] Next, a description will be given of the effects of the liquid storage container 100 of this embodiment. Below, a liquid storage container that does not have a groove-like flow path 1841 will be given as a comparative example, and the effects will be described in comparison with this comparative example.

[0021] The liquid storage container of the comparative example has the same structure as the liquid storage container 100 of the present embodiment, except that it does not have the groove-like flow path 1841. When the attitude of the liquid storage container changes, the liquid that has seeped out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 moves inside the container. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing how liquid moves inside a liquid storage container of a comparative example when the container is rotated once. Figure 5 shows a portion of the liquid storage container 100 shown in Figure 3 that corresponds to the portion surrounded by the dashed dotted line B (groove-shaped flow path 1841(10) is not provided). Figure 5(a) shows a state in which the lid member 180 is facing upward. Figure 5(b) shows a state in which the lid member 180 is facing sideways. Figure 5(c) shows a state in which the lid member 180 is facing downward. Figure 5(d) shows a state in which the lid member 180 is facing sideways in the opposite direction to Figure 5(b).

[0022] In a liquid storage container, pressure fluctuations in the internal space 186 may cause the voids in the liquid absorber 170 to expand, resulting in a decrease in the liquid retention capacity of the liquid absorber 170. Furthermore, dimensional variations during processing of the joint between the cover member 180 and the opening 140a of the storage section 140 may increase the pressing force of the rib 140 against the liquid absorber 170. For this reason, in the state (upward facing) of Figure 5(a), liquid 200 seeps out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 near the contact surface 184a of the rib 184A.

[0023] 5(a) (facing upward) to the state shown in FIG. 5(b) (facing sideways), the liquid 200 moves along both side surfaces of the rib 184A toward the cover member 180. Furthermore, when the orientation of the liquid container changes from the state shown in FIG. 5(b) (facing sideways) to the state shown in FIG. 5(c) (facing downward), the liquid 200 travels along the side surfaces of the rib 184A to reach the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180, and then travels along the inner surface 180a to reach the protrusion 185. Furthermore, when the orientation of the liquid container changes from the state shown in FIG. 5(c) (facing downward) to the state shown in FIG. 5(d) (facing sideways), the liquid 200 moves along the side surfaces of the protrusion 185 toward the atmosphere-communication port 181. In the liquid storage container of the comparative example, when the posture changes shown in FIGS. 5(a) to 5(d) are repeated, the liquid 200 leaks out through the atmosphere communication port 181.

[0024] Next, the movement of liquid due to a change in the attitude of the liquid storage container 100 of this embodiment will be described. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the liquid when the liquid storage container 100 is rotated once. As in Fig. 5, Fig. 6 also shows a portion corresponding to the portion of the liquid storage container 100 surrounded by the dashed line B shown in Fig. 3. Fig. 6(a) shows a state in which the lid member 180 is facing upward. Fig. 6(b) shows a state in which the lid member 180 is facing sideways. Fig. 6(c) shows a state in which the lid member 180 is facing downward. Fig. 6(d) shows a state in which the lid member 180 is facing sideways in the opposite direction to Fig. 6(b).

[0025] In the liquid storage container 100, the groove-like flow path 1841(10) provided on the first side surface 184A-1 of the rib 184A holds the liquid 200 that seeps out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. Therefore, even if the liquid storage container 100 undergoes the posture changes shown in FIGS. 6(a) to 6(d), the liquid 200 can be prevented from running down the rib 184A and reaching the inner surface 180a of the lid member 180. Therefore, even if the posture changes shown in FIGS. 6(a) to 6(d) are repeated, the liquid 200 can be prevented from leaking out through the atmosphere-communication port 181.

[0026] In the liquid storage container 100 of this embodiment, the first liquid retention path 10 (groove-shaped flow path 1841) is preferably configured so that the capillary force acts stronger in a portion closer to the lid member 180. This allows the entire first liquid retention path 10 (groove-shaped flow path 1841) to reliably retain the liquid 200 that has seeped out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. Major parameters related to capillary action include the density of the liquid, the surface tension of the liquid, the contact angle of the liquid with respect to the solid (the inner surface of the liquid holding path), and the width of the liquid holding path. Capillary force is inversely proportional to the width of the liquid holding path. Therefore, the narrower the width of the first liquid holding path 10 (groove-shaped flow path 1841), the stronger the capillary force. Utilizing this principle, the width of the first liquid holding path 10 (groove-shaped flow path 1841) is made smaller the closer to the lid member 180 (note that the depth is constant). This allows for a configuration in which the closer to the lid member 180 the lid member 180 the stronger the capillary force. In a structure in which the width is made smaller the closer to the lid member 180 the each portion preferably always satisfies the condition w1>d1. As another method, the capillary force can be changed by varying the wettability of the inner surface of the holding path by surface treatment at each location. Wettability indicates how easily a solid (the inner surface of the holding path) gets wet. The smaller the contact angle of the liquid, the easier the solid (the inner surface of the holding path) becomes wet, and the greater the capillary force. Utilizing this principle, the wettability is increased in the first liquid holding path 10 (groove-shaped flow path 1841) at locations closer to the lid member 180. This allows for a configuration in which the capillary force is stronger at locations closer to the lid member 180. In this case, it is also preferable that each location always satisfy the condition w1>d1.

[0027] It is also preferable that the other end of groove channel 1841 does not reach inner surface 180a of cover member 180. In other words, it is preferable that the other end of groove channel 1841 terminates between inner surface 180a and contact surface 184a of cover member 180. This makes it possible to prevent the liquid held in groove channel 1841 from moving to inner surface 180a of cover member 180. The structure in which the first liquid holding path 10 (groove-shaped flow path 1841) is formed in the rib 184 makes it possible to hold a larger amount of liquid than the ink tank described in Patent Document 1. Therefore, even if the amount of liquid poured into the liquid absorber 170 increases, it is possible to prevent the liquid from leaking to the outside through the atmosphere communication port 181.

[0028] In this embodiment, the groove channel 1841 is provided on the first side surface 184A-1 of the rib 184A, but the arrangement of the groove channel 1841 is not limited to the first side surface 184A-1. The groove channel 1841 may be provided on both the first side surface 184A-1 and the second side surface 184A-2 of the rib 184A. This increases the amount of liquid that the groove channel 1841 can hold, and further reduces liquid leakage from the atmosphere vent 181. Furthermore, although groove flow path 1841 is provided in rib 184A adjacent to protrusion 185, the rib on which groove flow path 1841 is arranged is not limited to rib 184A. Groove flow path 1841 may be appropriately formed in other ribs 184 in addition to rib 184A. This makes it possible to more reliably suppress liquid leakage from atmosphere communication port 181.

[0029] (Second embodiment) A liquid storage container according to the second embodiment of the present invention is the same as the first embodiment except that the configuration of the first liquid holding path 10 is different. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a rib of a lid member used in a liquid storage container according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7(a) is a cross-sectional view of lid member 180, corresponding to Figure 4(b). Figure 7(b) is a schematic plan view showing lid member 180 as viewed from the inner surface 180a side, corresponding to Figure 4(c). Figure 7(c) is an enlarged view of a portion of rib 184A.

[0030] As shown in FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b), two ribs 184A are disposed on both sides of the atmosphere communication port 181, and a plurality of slit-shaped channels 1842 are provided in parallel to each other as the first liquid retention path 10. As shown in FIG. 7(c), the slit-shaped channels 1842 are formed by slits penetrating the ribs 184A in the thickness direction (X direction). The slit-shaped channels 1842 can be formed when the cover member 180 is resin-molded. Each slit-shaped channel 1842 extends from the contact surface 184a of the rib 184A toward the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. One end of the slit-shaped channel 1842 opens to the contact surface 184a of the rib 184A. The width w2 and depth d2 of the slit-shaped channel 1842 are defined as the length perpendicular to the direction in which the channels extend and parallel to the side surface of the rib 184A. The depth d2 is the length in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the flow path and perpendicular to the side surface of the rib 184A. The depth d2 is the same as the thickness of the rib 184A.

[0031] Like the groove-shaped flow path 1841, the slit-shaped flow path 1842 is also capable of retaining liquid that has seeped out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. The slit-shaped flow path 1842 has a shape that allows capillary force to act on the retained liquid, and its width w2 is preferably in the range of 0.2 to 1.0 mm. From the viewpoint of allowing capillary force to act on the retained liquid, it is preferable that the relationship between the width w2 and depth d2 of the slit-shaped flow path 1842 satisfy the condition w2>d2. Here, the depth d2 is the same as the thickness of the rib 184A.

[0032] According to the liquid storage container of this embodiment, the slit-shaped flow path 1842 holds the liquid that has seeped out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170, and therefore, the same effects as those of the first embodiment are achieved. Furthermore, the slit-shaped flow paths 1842 can hold a larger amount of liquid than the groove-shaped flow paths 1841. Therefore, the liquid can be more reliably prevented from leaking out from the atmosphere communication port 181.

[0033] In the liquid storage container 100 of this embodiment, the slit-shaped flow channel 1842 is preferably configured so that the capillary force acts stronger in a portion closer to the lid member 180. This allows the entire slit-shaped flow channel 1842 to reliably hold the liquid that has seeped out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. For example, in the slit-shaped flow channel 1842, the width w2 can be made smaller in the region closer to the lid member 180, or the wettability can be increased in the region closer to the lid member 180 by surface treatment. This allows for a configuration in which the capillary force acts more strongly in the region closer to the lid member 180. In either case, it is preferable that each region always satisfy the condition w2>d2. It is also preferable that the other end of the slit-shaped channel 1842 does not reach the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. In other words, it is preferable that the other end of the slit-shaped channel 1842 terminates between the inner surface 180a and the abutment surface 184a of the cover member 180. This makes it possible to prevent the liquid held in the slit-shaped channel 1842 from moving to the inner surface 180a of the cover member 180. In this embodiment, the slit-shaped flow path 1842 is provided in the rib 184A adjacent to the protrusion 185, but the rib on which the slit-shaped flow path 1842 is arranged is not limited to the rib 184A. The slit-shaped flow path 1842 may be appropriately formed in other ribs 184 in addition to the rib 184A. This makes it possible to more reliably suppress liquid leakage from the atmosphere communication port 181.

[0034] (Third embodiment) A liquid storage container according to the third embodiment of the present invention is the same as the first embodiment, except that it has, in addition to the first liquid retention path 10, at least one second liquid retention path 20 that extends in a direction intersecting the first liquid retention path 10. The second liquid retention path 20 is provided on the rib 184A and communicates with the first liquid retention path 10. The second liquid retention path 20 is configured to be able to retain liquid that has flowed in from the first liquid retention path 10. The second liquid retention path 20 is an example of a capillary structure that absorbs liquid by capillary action.

[0035] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a rib of a lid member used in a liquid storage container according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8(a) is a cross-sectional view of lid member 180, showing a cross-section corresponding to Figure 4(b). Figure 8(b) is a schematic plan view showing lid member 180 as viewed from the side of inner surface 180a, corresponding to Figure 4(c).

[0036] 8(a) and 8(b), a plurality of first groove-shaped channels 1843 are provided in parallel as first liquid retention paths 10 in two ribs 184A arranged on both sides of the atmosphere communication port 181. The first groove-shaped channels 1843 have a structure similar to the groove-shaped channels 1841 shown in FIGS. 4(b) to 4(d) and are formed on a first side surface 184A-1 of the rib 184A. Second groove-shaped channels 1844 are further formed on the first side surface 184A-1 of the rib 184A as second liquid retention paths 20. The second groove-shaped channels 1844 extend in a direction intersecting (orthogonal in this embodiment) each of the first groove-shaped channels 1843. Here, the second groove-shaped channels 1844 are arranged closer to the cover member 180 than each of the first groove-shaped channels 1843. The second groove flow path 1844 connects the ends of the first groove flow paths 1843. The second groove flow path 1844 holds the liquid that flows in from each of the first groove flow paths 1843. Like the groove flow path 1841, the first groove flow path 1843 and the second groove flow path 1844 can also be formed when the cover member 180 is molded from resin.

[0037] According to the liquid storage container of this embodiment, the first groove-shaped flow path 1843 (10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844 (20) retain the liquid 200 that has seeped out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170, thereby achieving the same effects as those of the first embodiment. Furthermore, the amount of liquid held by the first groove flow path 1843(10) and the second groove flow path 1844(20) is greater than the amount of liquid held by the groove flow path 1841(10) in the first embodiment. Therefore, even if the amount of liquid seeping out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 increases, it is possible to reliably prevent the liquid from leaking out through the atmosphere communication port 181 to the outside.

[0038] In the liquid storage container of this embodiment, the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) are preferably configured so that the capillary force is stronger in the portions closer to the lid member 180. Specifically, the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) is configured so that the capillary force is stronger than that of the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10). More specifically, the width (length in the Z direction) of the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) is made smaller than the width (length in the Y direction) of the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10). The depths of the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) are made constant. This allows the entire first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) to reliably retain liquid that has seeped out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. As in the first embodiment, the first groove flow path 1843(10) can be configured so that the capillary force is stronger in a portion closer to the lid member 180. In addition, in the first groove flow path 1843(10) and the second groove flow path 1844(20), it is preferable that the width of the flow path is always greater than the depth.

[0039] The first groove-shaped flow paths 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow paths 1844(20) may be configured to intersect with each other. Specifically, the second groove-shaped flow paths 1844(20) connect the portions of each first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) other than the ends. This structure also makes it possible to reliably retain liquid that seeps out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. Also in the above case, it is preferable that the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) are configured such that the capillary force acts stronger in the part closer to the lid member 180. Specifically, let the capillary force generated in the portion of the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) located on the side of the contact surface 184a rather than the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) be F1. Let the capillary force generated in the portion of the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) located on the side of the lid member 180 rather than the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) be F2. Let the capillary force generated in the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) be F3. The first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) preferably satisfy the relationship of F1 < F3 < F2. Thereby, the liquid渗出from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170 can be surely retained by the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) as a whole. The above relationship of F1 < F3 < F2 can be realized by changing the width or wettability of the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) for each part. For example, if the width of the part where F1 occurs is w11, the width of the part where F2 occurs is w12, and the width of the part where F3 occurs is w13, the relationship of w11 > w13 > w12 is satisfied. Thereby, the relationship of F1 < F3 < F2 can be realized. Also in this case, it is preferable that the width of the flow path is always larger than the depth for each part. In the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20), the depth of the flow path is the same, but it is not limited to this. The depth of the flow path may be appropriately changed according to the relationship with the width of the flow path and the capillary force.

[0040] Also, a plurality of the second groove-shaped flow paths 1844(20) may be provided in parallel. Thereby, the amount of liquid that the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) can hold can be further increased. In this embodiment, the first groove channel 1843(10) and the second groove channel 1844(20) are provided on the first side surface 184A-1 of the rib 184A, but the surface on which these groove channels are arranged is not limited to the first side surface 184A-1. The first groove channel 1843(10) and the second groove channel 1844(20) may be provided on both the first side surface 184A-1 and the second side surface 184A-2 of the rib 184A. This increases the amount of liquid that the first groove channel 1843(10) and the second groove channel 1844(20) can hold, thereby further suppressing liquid leakage from the atmosphere vent 181.

[0041] Furthermore, the first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) are provided in the rib 184A adjacent to the protrusion 185, but the rib on which these groove-shaped flow paths 1843(10) and 1844(20) are arranged is not limited to the rib 184A. The first groove-shaped flow path 1843(10) and the second groove-shaped flow path 1844(20) may be appropriately formed in other ribs 184 in addition to the rib 184A. This makes it possible to more reliably suppress liquid leakage from the atmosphere communication port 181.

[0042] The first to third embodiments described above are merely examples of the present invention, and the configurations described in the embodiments can be modified as appropriate. For example, as long as liquid can be retained by capillary action, groove-shaped flow paths 1841, 1843, and 1844 and slit-shaped flow path 1842 can be combined as appropriate. This can prevent liquid from entering atmosphere vent 181 while improving design flexibility. For example, in the third embodiment described above, the first groove-shaped channel 1843, which is the first liquid holding channel 10, may be replaced with the slit-shaped channel 1842 shown in FIG. 7. In this case, the second groove-shaped channel 1844, which is the second liquid holding channel 20, may be provided on one or both of the first side surface 184A-1 and the first side surface 184A-2. The second groove-shaped channel 1844 is configured to receive liquid from each slit-shaped channel 1842 and to hold the liquid that has flowed in. This increases the amount of liquid that can be held. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the second groove-shaped channel 1844, which is the second liquid holding channel 20, may be replaced with the slit-shaped channel 1842 shown in Fig. 7. That is, a slit-shaped channel 1842 is provided as the second liquid holding channel 20. The slit-shaped channel 1842 is configured to receive liquid from each of the first groove-shaped channels 1843 and to hold the liquid that has flowed in. This makes it possible to increase the amount of liquid that can be held.

[0043] Furthermore, from the perspective of increasing the amount of liquid that can be held, the shape of the first liquid holding path 10 may be changed as appropriate. Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the ribs of the lid member shown in Fig. 4. The first liquid holding path 10 has a groove-like flow path 1841 consisting of a first groove-like flow path 1841a, a second groove-like flow path 1841b, and a third groove-like flow path 1841c.

[0044] One end of the first groove-shaped channel 1841a opens to the abutment surface 184a of the rib 184, and extends toward the cover member 180 (extending in the Z direction). The second groove-shaped channel 1841b is connected to the other end of the first groove-shaped channel 1841a, and extends in a direction intersecting the first groove-shaped channel 1841a (the Y direction). The third groove-shaped channel 1841c is connected to the second groove-shaped channel 1841b, and extends toward the cover member 180 (extending in the Z direction). The first groove-shaped channel 1841a, the second groove-shaped channel 1841b, and the third groove-shaped channel 1841c together can retain liquid that has seeped out from the first surface 170a of the liquid absorber 170. The second groove channel 1841b is wider than both the first groove channel 1841a and the third groove channel 1841c. This structure can hold a larger amount of liquid than the structure shown in FIG.

[0045] In this modification example, it is preferable that the other end of the third groove-shaped flow path 1841c does not reach the inner surface 180a of the lid member 180. In other words, it is preferable that the other end of the third groove-shaped flow path 1841c terminates between the inner surface 180a of the lid member 180 and the second groove-shaped flow path 1841b. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the liquid held in the third groove-shaped flow path 1841c from moving to the inner surface 180a of the lid member 180. Also, when the capillary forces of the first groove-shaped flow path 1841a, the second groove-shaped flow path 1841b, and the third groove-shaped flow path 1841c are F1, F2, and F3, respectively, it is preferable to satisfy the relationship of F1 < F2 < F3. Thereby, it is possible to reliably hold the liquid in the first groove-shaped flow path 1841a, the second groove-shaped flow path 1841b, and the third groove-shaped flow path 1841c as a whole. The above relationship of F1 < F2 < F3 can be realized by changing the width or wettability of the first groove-shaped flow path 1841a, the second groove-shaped flow path 1841b, and the third groove-shaped flow path 1841c. For example, let the width of the first groove-shaped flow path 1841a be w11, the width of the second groove-shaped flow path 1841b be w12, and the width of the third groove-shaped flow path 1841c be w13. The width w11 and the width w13 are lengths in the Y direction, and the width w12 is a length in the Z direction. By satisfying the relationship of w11 > w12 > w13, the above relationship of F1 < F2 < F3 can be realized. In the first groove-shaped flow path 1841a, the second groove-shaped flow path 1841b, and the third groove-shaped flow path 1841c, it is always preferable that the width of the flow path is larger than the depth. Also, in the first groove-shaped flow path 1841a, the second groove-shaped flow path 1841b, and the third groove-shaped flow path 1841c, the depth of the flow path is the same, but it is not limited thereto. The depth of the flow path may be appropriately changed according to the relationship with the width of the flow path and the capillary force. A plurality of second groove-shaped flow paths 1841b may be provided for one groove-shaped flow path 1841. Thereby, the amount of liquid that one groove-shaped flow path 1841 can hold can be increased. This modification can be applied to both the second and third embodiments. For example, in the second embodiment, the second groove-shaped flow path 1841b is provided on one or both of the first side surface 184A-1 and the first side surface 184A-2 of the rib 184A. In this case, the second groove-shaped flow path 1841b is configured to receive liquid from the slit-shaped flow path 1842 and to be able to hold the liquid. This increases the amount of liquid that can be held.

[0046] The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following configuration. (Configuration 1) a liquid absorbent that absorbs and retains liquid; a storage section that stores the liquid absorber and has an opening that faces the first surface of the liquid absorber; a cover member that closes the opening of the storage portion; a plurality of ribs provided on an inner surface of the lid member on the side of the storage section, the ribs coming into contact with the first surface of the liquid absorber when the lid member closes the opening; an atmosphere communication port provided in the lid member for communicating the internal space of the storage unit with the atmosphere; at least one first liquid holding path provided on at least one of the plurality of ribs adjacent to the atmosphere communication port, and extending from a contact surface of the rib with the first surface toward the lid member, A liquid storage container, wherein the first liquid holding path is configured to be able to hold liquid that has seeped out from the first surface of the liquid absorber. (Configuration 2) 2. The liquid storage container according to configuration 1, wherein the first liquid holding path is configured so that the width of the flow path is greater than the depth. (Configuration 3) 3. The liquid storage container according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the first liquid holding path has a stronger capillary force in a portion closer to the lid member. (Configuration 4) 4. The liquid storage container according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the width of the first liquid holding path is narrower in a portion closer to the lid member. (Configuration 5) 5. The liquid storage container according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the other end of the first liquid holding path terminates between the inner surface and the abutment surface of the lid member. (Configuration 6) A liquid storage container described in any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that the first liquid holding path consists of a groove-shaped flow path provided on the side surface of the rib, and one end of the groove-shaped flow path opens to the abutment surface of the rib. (Configuration 7) the rib has a first side surface located on the atmosphere vent side and a second side surface located on the opposite side to the first side surface, 7. The liquid storage container according to claim 6, wherein the groove-shaped flow path is provided on at least the first side surface. (Configuration 8) The groove-shaped flow path is a first groove-shaped flow path having one end that opens onto the contact surface of the rib and extends toward the lid member; a second groove-shaped flow path connected to the other end of the first groove-shaped flow path and extending in a direction intersecting the first groove-shaped flow path; a third groove-shaped flow path, one end of which is connected to the second groove-shaped flow path and which extends toward the cover member; The liquid storage container according to configuration 6 or 7, wherein the first groove-shaped flow path, the second groove-shaped flow path, and the third groove-shaped flow path are each configured to be able to hold liquid. (Configuration 9) When the capillary forces of the first groove-shaped flow path, the second groove-shaped flow path, and the third groove-shaped flow path are F1, F2, and F3, respectively, F1 <F2<F3 9. A liquid storage container according to configuration 8, wherein the following relationship is satisfied: (Configuration 10) A liquid storage container described in any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that the first liquid holding path consists of a slit-shaped flow path that penetrates the rib in the thickness direction, and one end of the slit-shaped flow path opens to the abutment surface of the rib. (Configuration 11) 2. The liquid storage container according to configuration 1, wherein a plurality of the first liquid holding paths are provided in parallel. (Configuration 12) Further, at least one second liquid holding path is provided in the rib, communicates with the first liquid holding path, and extends in a direction intersecting the first liquid holding path; 12. A liquid container according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, wherein the second liquid holding path is configured to be able to hold the liquid flowing in from the first liquid holding path. (Configuration 13) 13. A liquid storage container according to claim 12, wherein the end of the first liquid holding path on the side of the lid member is connected to the second liquid holding path. (Configuration 14) 14. The liquid container according to claim 13, wherein the second liquid holding path has a stronger capillary force than the first liquid holding path. (Configuration 15) 15. A liquid storage container according to configuration 14, wherein the width of the second liquid holding path is narrower than the width of the first liquid holding path. (Configuration 16) 16. A liquid storage container according to any one of configurations 12 to 15, wherein the second liquid holding path is a groove-shaped flow path provided on a side surface of the rib. (Configuration 17) Further, at least one second liquid holding path is provided in the rib, communicates with the first liquid holding path, and extends in a direction intersecting the first liquid holding path; the first liquid holding path is made up of a first groove-shaped flow path provided on a side surface of the rib, the second liquid holding path is made of a second groove-shaped flow path provided on the side surface of the rib, A liquid storage container described in any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that one end of the first groove-shaped flow path opens to the abutment surface of the rib and the other end is connected to the second groove-shaped flow path. (Configuration 18) Further, at least one second liquid holding path is provided in the rib, communicates with the first liquid holding path, and extends in a direction intersecting the first liquid holding path; the first liquid holding path is a slit-shaped flow path that penetrates the rib in a thickness direction, the second liquid holding path is a groove-shaped flow path provided on a side surface of the rib, 6. A liquid storage container according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein one end of the slit-shaped flow path is open to the contact surface of the rib and the other end is connected to the groove-shaped flow path. (Configuration 19) Further, at least one second liquid holding path is provided in the rib, communicates with the first liquid holding path, and extends in a direction intersecting the first liquid holding path; the first liquid holding path is a groove-shaped flow path provided on a side surface of the rib, the second liquid holding path is a slit-shaped flow path that penetrates the rib in a thickness direction, 6. A liquid storage container according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein one end of the groove-shaped flow path is open to the contact surface of the rib and the other end is connected to the slit-shaped flow path. (Configuration 20) a liquid absorbent that absorbs and retains liquid; a storage section that stores the liquid absorber and has an opening that faces the first surface of the liquid absorber; a cover member that closes the opening of the storage portion; a plurality of ribs provided on an inner surface of the lid member on the side of the storage section, the ribs coming into contact with the first surface of the liquid absorber when the lid member closes the opening; an atmosphere communication port provided in the lid member for communicating the internal space of the storage unit with the atmosphere, A liquid storage container, wherein at least one of the plurality of ribs adjacent to the atmosphere communication port has a capillary structure that absorbs liquid that has seeped out from the first surface of the liquid absorber. [Explanation of symbols]

[0047] 10 First liquid holding channel 100 Liquid storage container 140 Storage unit 140a opening 170 Liquid absorber 170a First Side 180 Lid member 180a inside 181 Atmospheric vent 184, 184A Rib 184a Contact surface 186 Interior Space

Claims

1. a liquid absorbent that absorbs and retains liquid; a storage section that stores the liquid absorber and has an opening that faces the first surface of the liquid absorber; a cover member that closes the opening of the storage portion; a plurality of ribs provided on an inner surface of the lid member on the side of the storage portion, the ribs abutting against the first surface of the liquid absorber when the lid member closes the opening; an atmosphere communication port provided in the lid member for communicating the internal space of the storage unit with the atmosphere; at least one first liquid holding path is provided on at least one of the plurality of ribs that is adjacent to the atmosphere communication port, and extends from a contact surface of the rib that contacts the first surface toward the lid member, A liquid storage container, wherein the first liquid holding path is configured to be able to hold liquid that has seeped out from the first surface of the liquid absorber.

2. 2. The liquid container according to claim 1, wherein the first liquid holding path is configured so that the width of the flow path is greater than the depth.

3. 2. The liquid container according to claim 1, wherein the first liquid holding path has a stronger capillary force in a portion closer to the lid member.

4. 4. The liquid container according to claim 3, wherein the width of said first liquid holding path is narrower in a portion closer to said lid member.

5. 2. The liquid container according to claim 1, wherein the other end of the first liquid holding path terminates between the inner surface and the abutment surface of the lid member.

6. 6. A liquid storage container according to claim 1, wherein the first liquid holding path is a groove-shaped flow path provided on a side surface of the rib, and one end of the groove-shaped flow path opens to the abutment surface of the rib.

7. the rib has a first side surface located on the atmosphere communication port side and a second side surface located on the opposite side to the first side surface, 7. The liquid container according to claim 6, wherein the groove-shaped flow path is provided on at least the first side surface.

8. The groove-shaped flow path is a first groove-shaped flow path having one end that opens onto the contact surface of the rib and extends toward the lid member; a second groove-shaped flow path connected to the other end of the first groove-shaped flow path and extending in a direction intersecting the first groove-shaped flow path; a third groove-shaped flow path, one end of which is connected to the second groove-shaped flow path and which extends toward the cover member; 7. The liquid container according to claim 6, wherein the first groove-shaped flow path, the second groove-shaped flow path, and the third groove-shaped flow path are each configured to be able to hold liquid.

9. When the capillary forces of the first groove-shaped flow path, the second groove-shaped flow path, and the third groove-shaped flow path are F1, F2, and F3, respectively, F1 < F2 < F3 9. The liquid storage container according to claim 8, wherein the following relationship is satisfied:

10. 6. A liquid storage container according to claim 1, wherein the first liquid holding path comprises a slit-shaped flow path penetrating the rib in the thickness direction, and one end of the slit-shaped flow path opens to the abutment surface of the rib.

11. 2. The liquid container according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the first liquid holding paths are provided in parallel.

12. at least one second liquid holding passage provided in the rib, communicating with the first liquid holding passage, and extending in a direction intersecting the first liquid holding passage; 6. The liquid container according to claim 1, wherein the second liquid holding path is configured to be able to hold the liquid flowing in from the first liquid holding path.

13. 13. The liquid container according to claim 12, wherein an end of the first liquid holding path on the side of the lid member is connected to the second liquid holding path.

14. 14. The liquid container according to claim 13, wherein the second liquid holding path has a stronger capillary force than the first liquid holding path.

15. 15. The liquid storage container according to claim 14, wherein the width of the second liquid holding path is narrower than the width of the first liquid holding path.

16. 13. The liquid container according to claim 12, wherein the second liquid holding path is a groove-shaped flow path provided on a side surface of the rib.

17. at least one second liquid holding passage provided in the rib, communicating with the first liquid holding passage, and extending in a direction intersecting the first liquid holding passage; the first liquid holding path is made of a first groove-shaped flow path provided on a side surface of the rib, the second liquid holding path is made of a second groove-shaped flow path provided on the side surface of the rib, 6. A liquid storage container according to claim 1, wherein one end of the first groove-shaped flow path is open to the abutment surface of the rib and the other end is connected to the second groove-shaped flow path.

18. at least one second liquid holding passage provided in the rib, communicating with the first liquid holding passage, and extending in a direction intersecting the first liquid holding passage; the first liquid holding path is a slit-shaped flow path that penetrates the rib in a thickness direction, the second liquid holding path is a groove-shaped flow path provided on a side surface of the rib, 6. The liquid container according to claim 1, wherein one end of the slit-shaped flow path is open to the contact surface of the rib, and the other end is connected to the groove-shaped flow path.

19. at least one second liquid holding passage provided in the rib, communicating with the first liquid holding passage, and extending in a direction intersecting the first liquid holding passage; the first liquid holding path is a groove-shaped flow path provided on a side surface of the rib, the second liquid holding path is formed of a slit-shaped flow path that penetrates the rib in a thickness direction, 6. The liquid container according to claim 1, wherein one end of the groove-shaped flow path is open to the contact surface of the rib, and the other end is connected to the slit-shaped flow path.

20. a liquid absorbent that absorbs and retains liquid; a storage section that stores the liquid absorber and has an opening that faces the first surface of the liquid absorber; a cover member that closes the opening of the storage portion; a plurality of ribs provided on an inner surface of the lid member on the side of the storage portion, the ribs abutting against the first surface of the liquid absorber when the lid member closes the opening; an atmosphere communication port provided in the lid member for communicating the internal space of the storage unit with the atmosphere, A liquid storage container, characterized in that at least one of the plurality of ribs adjacent to the atmosphere communication port has a capillary structure that absorbs liquid that has seeped out from the first surface of the liquid absorber.

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