Tank unit and liquid ejection device

Abstract

To provide a tank unit which can reduce a possibility that a liquid flows out from a head, and to provide a liquid discharge device.SOLUTION: A tank unit 18 may introduce a liquid supplied from a storage body and lead out the liquid toward a head capable of discharging the liquid. The tank unit includes: a storage part 19 in which the liquid supplied from the storage body is stored; an introduction part 20 which introduces the liquid supplied from the storage body by a water head difference to the storage part; an atmospheric air open part 61 which may open the interior of the storage part to atmospheric air; and a lead-out part 64 which leads out the liquid stored in the storage part. The introduction part is connected to the storage part, extends in a vertical direction D1 in the storage part, and has an opening end 21 located within the storage part. The storage part has a shield part 51 including a first protruding part 52 located at a position facing the opening end in the vertical direction; and a second protruding part 53 extending upward from the first protruding part. A length of a horizontal component at the first protruding part is longer than a length of a horizontal component at the opening end.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to, for example, a tank unit and a liquid ejection device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a liquid ejection device including a tank unit into which liquid is introduced from a container that stores liquid, and a head that ejects the liquid. The liquid stored in the tank unit is supplied to the head. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 5-92578 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In such a liquid ejection device, tilting the attitude can cause the liquid level in the tank unit to rise, and in this case, for example, if the liquid level in the tank unit becomes higher than the head, there is a risk that the liquid will leak out of the head. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The tank unit that solves the above problem is a tank unit that can introduce liquid supplied from a container and can discharge the liquid toward a head that can eject the liquid, and is equipped with a storage section that stores the liquid supplied from the container, an introduction section that introduces liquid supplied from the container by a head difference into the storage section, an atmosphere opening section that can open the inside of the storage section to the atmosphere, and an outlet section that discharges the liquid stored in the storage section, wherein the introduction section is connected to the storage section, extends vertically within the storage section, and has an opening end located within the storage section, and the storage section has a blocking section that includes a first convex section located at a position opposite the opening end in the vertical direction, and a second convex section extending upward from the first convex section, and the length of the horizontal component of the first convex section is longer than the length of the horizontal component at the opening end.

[0006] A liquid ejection device that solves the above problem includes the tank unit and a head that ejects liquid supplied from the tank unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a liquid ejection device including a tank unit. [Figure 2] FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a front view of the tank unit tilted from the state shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the tank unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the tank unit tilted from the state shown in FIG. 5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An embodiment of a liquid ejection device equipped with a tank unit will be described below with reference to the drawings. The liquid ejection device is, for example, an inkjet printer that prints images such as characters and photographs by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper or fabric. In this specification, when descriptions are made based on the vertical and horizontal directions, it is assumed that the liquid ejection device is installed horizontally unless otherwise specified.

[0009] 1, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a housing 12. The housing 12 is, for example, placed horizontally. The liquid ejection device 11 includes a head 13. The head 13 is housed in a housing 12. The head 13 is configured to eject liquid. The head 13 has nozzles 14 and a nozzle surface 15. The nozzles 14 open to the nozzle surface 15. The nozzles 14 eject liquid. The head 13 prints on the medium 99 by ejecting the liquid from the nozzles 14 onto the medium 99.

[0010] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a mounting portion 16. The mounting portion 16 is housed in, for example, the housing 12. The mounting portion 16 is configured to allow a container 17 to be mounted thereto. The container 17 contains liquid. The container 17 is, for example, an ink cartridge. By mounting the container 17 in the mounting portion 16, it becomes possible to supply liquid from the container 17 to the head 13.

[0011] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a tank unit 18. The tank unit 18 is configured to be able to introduce liquid supplied from the container 17. The tank unit 18 is configured to be able to discharge the liquid toward the head 13.

[0012] The tank unit 18 includes a storage section 19 and an introduction section 20. The storage section 19 is configured to store a liquid. The storage section 19 stores the liquid supplied from the container 17. More specifically, the storage section 19 stores the liquid supplied from the container 17 through the introduction section 20. The inside of the storage section 19 is open to the atmosphere. The storage section 19 is located below the container 17.

[0013] The introduction part 20 is configured to introduce liquid into the storage part 19. The introduction part 20 introduces the liquid supplied from the container 17 by the head difference into the storage part 19. The introduction part 20 is connected to the container 17, for example, by mounting the container 17 on the mounting part 16. This causes the liquid to flow from the container 17 to the introduction part 20.

[0014] Introduction portion 20 is connected to storage portion 19. Introduction portion 20 extends inside and outside storage portion 19. Introduction portion 20 extends, for example, in vertical direction D1 outside storage portion 19. Introduction portion 20 extends, for example, in vertical direction D1 inside storage portion 19.

[0015] The introduction portion 20 has an open end 21. The open end 21 is an end portion of the introduction portion 20. The open end 21 is located within the reservoir 19. The open end 21 is a downstream end of the introduction portion 20. The liquid is introduced into the reservoir 19 through the open end 21.

[0016] Liquid is introduced into storage section 19 up to the height of opening end 21. Therefore, the position of opening end 21 is the standard position P1 of the liquid level in storage section 19. Standard position P1 is lower than nozzle surface 15. This creates a negative pressure inside head 13. Standard position P1 is the position of the liquid level when liquid is normally supplied to storage section 19 with housing 12 installed horizontally.

[0017] Due to the head difference between the container 17 and the storage section 19, liquid is supplied from the container 17 to the storage section 19. Air in the storage section 19 enters the container 17 through the introduction section 20, causing the liquid to be introduced from the container 17 into the storage section 19 through the introduction section 20. When the liquid level in the storage section 19 reaches the opening end 21, the opening end 21 is blocked by the liquid, and the introduction of the liquid stops. The detailed configuration of the tank unit 18 will be described later.

[0018] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a supply flow path 22. The supply flow path 22 is a flow path for supplying liquid from the tank unit 18 to the head 13. The supply flow path 22 is connected to the tank unit 18 and the head 13. More specifically, the supply flow path 22 is connected to the storage unit 19 and the head 13. The supply flow path 22 may include, for example, a tube or a pipe. The liquid ejection device 11 may include a valve, a pump, etc. in the supply flow path 22.

[0019] The liquid discharge device 11 includes a detection unit 23. The detection unit 23 is configured to detect the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 with respect to the horizontal. The detection unit 23 is, for example, a gyro sensor. The detection unit 23 is attached to, for example, the housing 12. The detection unit 23 may also be attached to the tank unit 18. The detection unit 23 detects the tilt angle of the tank unit 18, for example, by detecting the tilt angle of the housing 12. When the housing 12 is horizontal, the tank unit 18 is horizontal.

[0020] If the attitude of housing 12 is tilted, there is a risk that the positional relationship between the liquid level in storage section 19 and nozzle surface 15 will be reversed. Specifically, if the attitude of housing 12 is tilted, there is a risk that the liquid level in storage section 19 will become higher than nozzle surface 15. If the liquid level in storage section 19 becomes higher than nozzle surface 15, there is a risk that the liquid will flow out of nozzle 14.

[0021] When the attitude of tank unit 18 is tilted, the liquid level in storage portion 19 may become separated from opening end 21. When the liquid level becomes separated from opening end 21, air in storage portion 19 enters container 17 through opening end 21, and liquid is introduced from container 17 into storage portion 19. In other words, the amount of liquid in storage portion 19 increases more than usual. When the amount of liquid in storage portion 19 increases, the liquid level in storage portion 19 becomes higher. When the liquid level in storage portion 19 becomes higher, there is a risk that the positional relationship between the liquid level in storage portion 19 and nozzle surface 15 may be reversed.

[0022] If the positional relationship between the liquid level in the storage portion 19 and the nozzle surface 15 is reversed due to the tilt of the tank unit 18, it will be necessary to lower the liquid level in the storage portion 19, for example, by discharging the liquid from the head 13. Therefore, if the positional relationship between the liquid level in the storage portion 19 and the nozzle surface 15 is reversed due to the tilt of the tank unit 18, there is a risk of the liquid being wasted. Therefore, it is preferable that the liquid ejection device 11 is used in a position that is close to horizontal. It is also preferable that the liquid ejection device 11 is transported in a position that is close to horizontal.

[0023] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a notification unit 24. The notification unit 24 is configured to notify the user of information. The notification unit 24 is attached to the housing 12. The notification unit 24 is, for example, a display. The notification unit 24 notifies the user of information, for example, by displaying a message. The notification unit 24 may be, for example, a speaker that notifies the user of information by emitting a sound, or a lamp that notifies the user of information by emitting light.

[0024] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a control unit 25. The control unit 25 is configured to control the liquid ejection device 11. The control unit 25 controls, for example, the head 13, the notification unit 24, etc. The control unit 25 may be one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program. The control unit 25 may also be one or more dedicated hardware circuits, such as application specific integrated circuits, that execute at least some of the various processes. The control unit 25 may also be a circuit that includes a combination of a processor and a hardware circuit. The processor includes a CPU and memory, such as RAM and ROM. The memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. The memory, i.e., computer-readable medium, includes any readable medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0025] For example, when the tilt angle of tank unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle, control unit 25 causes notification unit 24 to notify that the tilt angle has exceeded the predetermined angle. For example, control unit 25 compares the tilt angle detected by detection unit 23 with a predetermined angle, which is a threshold value. The threshold value is stored in control unit 25. For example, the threshold value is 3 degrees. For example, when the tilt angle of tank unit 18 exceeds 3 degrees, the positional relationship between the liquid level in storage unit 19 and nozzle surface 15 may be reversed.

[0026] For example, when the tilt angle detected by the detection unit 23 exceeds a threshold value, the control unit 25 causes the notification unit 24 to notify that the tilt angle has exceeded a predetermined angle. This allows the user to change the attitude of the liquid discharger 11.

[0027] When the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle, the control unit 25 may cause the notification unit 24 to issue a notification requesting that the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 be reduced. In this case, the control unit 25 may, for example, cause the notification unit 24 to issue a message urging the liquid discharger 11 to move closer to horizontal.

[0028] For example, the control unit 25 may prohibit printing when the detection unit 23 detects that the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle. For example, the control unit 25 may cause the notification unit 24 to notify an error when the detection unit 23 detects that the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle. In this case, the control unit 25 does not start printing even if it receives a print command from the user.

[0029] The control unit 25 may compare the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 obtained when the power of the liquid ejection device 11 is turned on with the threshold value, or may constantly compare the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 with the threshold value while the liquid ejection device 11 is in operation. This allows the user to use the liquid ejection device 11 with the liquid ejection device 11 installed in a horizontal or nearly horizontal position.

[0030] Next, the tank unit 18 will be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 2, introduction section 20 is located closer to one end of storage section 19 than reference line A1 in the longitudinal direction of storage section 19. Reference line A1 is an imaginary line that passes through the center position of storage section 19 in the longitudinal direction of storage section 19. When tank unit 18 is horizontal, storage section 19 has a shape that is elongated in horizontal direction D2, for example. Therefore, introduction section 20 is located closer to one end of storage section 19 than the center position of storage section 19 in horizontal direction D2. When tank unit 18 is horizontal, reference line A1 extends in vertical direction D1.

[0031] The introduction section 20 includes a first introduction section 31 and a second introduction section 32 . The first introduction part 31 extends outside the storage part 19. The first introduction part 31 extends, for example, in the vertical direction D1. The first introduction part 31 is, for example, a tube inserted into the container 17. The first introduction part 31 is inserted into the container 17, which is attached to the attachment part 16, for example. The first introduction part 31 is not limited to being directly connected to the container 17, and may be indirectly connected to the container 17 via another member.

[0032] The first introduction part 31 has a first introduction path 33. The first introduction path 33 is a flow path through which a liquid flows. The first introduction path 33 extends within the first introduction part 31. The first introduction path 33 extends so as to penetrate the inside and outside of the storage part 19.

[0033] The second introduction part 32 extends within the storage part 19. The second introduction part 32 extends, for example, in the vertical direction D1. The second introduction part 32 extends, for example, in the horizontal direction D2. The open end 21 is located at the end of the second introduction part 32. The second introduction part 32 is formed, for example, by a plurality of ribs extending from the storage part 19.

[0034] The second introduction section 32 includes, for example, a horizontal section 34 and a vertical section 35. The horizontal section 34 is a section of the second introduction section 32 that extends in the horizontal direction D2. The horizontal section 34 is formed, for example, by a rib extending in the horizontal direction D2. The first introduction passage 33 opens into the horizontal section 34. The horizontal section 34 extends, for example, from the section where the first introduction passage 33 opens, so as to approach the reference line A1. The vertical section 35 is a section of the second introduction section 32 that extends in the vertical direction D1. The vertical section 35 is formed by a rib extending in the vertical direction D1. The opening end 21 is located at the end of the vertical section 35. The horizontal section 34 and the vertical section 35 are connected to each other.

[0035] The second introduction part 32 extends in the horizontal direction D2 and in the vertical direction D1 by the horizontal part 34 and the vertical part 35. Therefore, the second introduction part 32 extends while bending. The second introduction part 32 may be configured to extend only in the vertical direction D1.

[0036] The second introduction section 32 has a second introduction path 36. The second introduction path 36 is a flow path through which liquid flows. The second introduction path 36 extends within the storage section 19. The second introduction path 36 communicates with the first introduction path 33. The second introduction path 36 is defined by the second introduction section 32. The second introduction path 36 is defined by a horizontal portion 34 and a vertical portion 35. Therefore, the second introduction path 36 extends in the horizontal direction D2 and the vertical direction D1. The second introduction path 36 opens to the opening end 21.

[0037] The reservoir 19 has a reservoir chamber 41. The reservoir chamber 41 is a space within the reservoir 19. The reservoir chamber 41 is defined, for example, by attaching a film to a case that constitutes the reservoir 19. The reservoir chamber 41 may also be defined by attaching a plate-like member made of the same material as the case that constitutes the reservoir 19 to the case. The reservoir chamber 41 includes, for example, an introduction chamber 42, a first reservoir chamber 43, and a second reservoir chamber 44.

[0038] The introduction chamber 42 is a space that communicates with the second introduction path 36. The introduction chamber 42 is defined by the second introduction part 32 and a blocking part 51, which will be described later. The introduction chamber 42 stores the liquid that has passed through the introduction part 20.

[0039] The first storage chamber 43 is a space that communicates with the introduction chamber 42. In the first storage chamber 43, the liquid that has passed through the introduction chamber 42 is stored. The second storage chamber 44 is a space that communicates with the first storage chamber 43. In the second storage chamber 44, the liquid that has passed through the first storage chamber 43 is stored.

[0040] In the storage section 19, the introduction chamber 42, the first storage chamber 43, and the second storage chamber 44 are aligned, for example, in the longitudinal direction of the storage section 19. In Fig. 2, the second storage chamber 44, the first storage chamber 43, and the introduction chamber 42 are aligned in this order in the horizontal direction D2. When the tank unit 18 is horizontal, the liquid level in the introduction chamber 42, the liquid level in the first storage chamber 43, and the liquid level in the second storage chamber 44 are the same.

[0041] Storage unit 19 has a connection path 45. Connection path 45 is a flow path that communicates with first storage chamber 43 and second storage chamber 44. Connection path 45 communicates with, for example, a lower portion of first storage chamber 43. Connection path 45 communicates with, for example, a lower portion of second storage chamber 44. The liquid stored in first storage chamber 43 is introduced into second storage chamber 44 through connection path 45.

[0042] The reservoir 19 may have a one-way valve located in the connecting path 45. The one-way valve, for example, allows the liquid to flow from the first reservoir chamber 43 toward the second reservoir chamber 44. The one-way valve, for example, restricts the liquid from flowing from the second reservoir chamber 44 toward the first reservoir chamber 43.

[0043] The storage section 19 has an atmosphere open path 46. The atmosphere open path 46 is a flow path that opens the storage chamber 41 to the atmosphere. Air flows through the atmosphere open path 46. The atmosphere open path 46 includes, for example, an introduction open path 47, a first open path 48, and a second open path 49.

[0044] The inlet open path 47 is a flow path for opening the inlet chamber 42 to the atmosphere. The inlet open path 47 communicates with the inlet chamber 42. The inlet open path 47 communicates with the first storage chamber 43. Therefore, the inlet open path 47 connects the inlet chamber 42 and the first storage chamber 43. The inlet open path 47 communicates with, for example, the upper part of the inlet chamber 42. The inlet open path 47 communicates with, for example, the upper part of the first storage chamber 43. The inlet open path 47 extends so as to bypass the second inlet path 36. In particular, the inlet open path 47 extends so as to surround the horizontal portion 34. This allows the space within the storage section 19 to be used effectively.

[0045] The first open path 48 is a flow path for opening the first storage chamber 43 to the atmosphere. The first open path 48 communicates with the first storage chamber 43. The first open path 48 communicates with, for example, the upper part of the first storage chamber 43. The first open path 48 communicates with the outside of the storage section 19. In other words, the first open path 48 communicates with the atmosphere. The first open path 48 opens the introduction chamber 42 and the first storage chamber 43 to the atmosphere.

[0046] The second open path 49 is a flow path for opening the second storage chamber 44 to the atmosphere. The second open path 49 communicates with the second storage chamber 44. The second open path 49 communicates with, for example, the upper part of the second storage chamber 44. The second open path 49 communicates with the outside of the storage section 19. In other words, the second open path 49 communicates with the atmosphere. The second open path 49 opens the second storage chamber 44 to the atmosphere.

[0047] The storage unit 19 may have a moisture-permeable membrane between the atmosphere open path 46 and the storage chamber 41. The storage unit 19 may have a moisture-permeable membrane, for example, between the first open path 48 and the first storage chamber 43 and between the second open path 49 and the second storage chamber 44. A moisture-permeable membrane is a membrane that allows gas to pass through but does not allow liquid to pass through. The moisture-permeable membrane reduces the risk of liquid flowing into the atmosphere open path 46.

[0048] The storage unit 19 includes a blocking unit 51. The blocking unit 51 is configured to block the introduction of liquid when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted. The blocking unit 51 blocks the introduction of liquid so that the positional relationship between the liquid level in the storage unit 19 and the nozzle surface 15 is not reversed. The blocking unit 51 is configured to block the introduction of liquid when the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds 8 degrees, for example. In more detail, the blocking unit 51 blocks the introduction of liquid when one end of the storage unit 19 is displaced upward, that is, when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted so that the introduction unit 20 is displaced upward.

[0049] 3, the blocking portion 51 has a first protrusion 52 and a second protrusion 53. The first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 53 are, for example, ribs. The first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 53 extend from a case that constitutes the storage portion 19, for example.

[0050] The first convex portion 52 is located below the second introduction portion 32. The first convex portion 52 is located below the opening end 21. The first convex portion 52 is located at a position opposite the opening end 21 in the vertical direction D1. Therefore, the first convex portion 52 receives the liquid introduced from the introduction portion 20.

[0051] The first protrusion 52 extends overall in the horizontal direction D2. When viewed from the vertical direction D1, for example, the first protrusion 52 overlaps with the horizontal portion 34 and the vertical portion 35. That is, the first protrusion 52 faces the horizontal portion 34 and the vertical portion 35 in the vertical direction D1. The first protrusion 52 extends in the horizontal direction D2, for example, from a position facing the open end 21, away from the reference line A1. By having the first protrusion 52 extend below the horizontal portion 34, the space within the storage section 19 is utilized effectively.

[0052] The first protrusion 52 has a first end 54 and a second end 55. The first end 54 and the second end 55 are end portions of the first protrusion 52. The first end 54 is the end of the first protrusion 52 that is farther from the intermediate position of the storage section 19 in the horizontal direction D2, i.e., the reference line A1, than the reference line A1. The second end 55 is the end of the first protrusion 52 that is closer to the intermediate position of the storage section 19 in the horizontal direction D2, i.e., the reference line A1. Therefore, in the horizontal direction D2, the distance between the reference line A1 and the first end 54 is greater than the distance between the reference line A1 and the second end 55. For example, when viewed from the vertical direction D1, the first end 54 overlaps with the horizontal portion 34. For example, when viewed from the vertical direction D1, the second end 55 overlaps with the vertical portion 35.

[0053] First convex portion 52 slopes downward from second end 55 toward first end 54. Therefore, the liquid received by first convex portion 52 flows on first convex portion 52 from second end 55 toward first end 54. As a result, the liquid received by first convex portion 52 is introduced from introduction chamber 42 into first storage chamber 43.

[0054] The length of the horizontal component of the first protrusion 52 is longer than the length of the horizontal component at the open end 21. The length of the horizontal component at the open end 21 is a first length L1. The first length L1 is, for example, the dimension of the vertical portion 35 in the horizontal direction D2. The distance between the first end 54 and the open end 21 in the horizontal direction D2 is a first distance L2. In this example, the length of the horizontal component of the first protrusion 52 is the sum of the first length L1 and the first distance L2. Therefore, in this example, the length of the horizontal component of the first protrusion 52 is longer than the length of the horizontal component at the open end 21 by the first distance L2.

[0055] The distance between the opening edge 21 and the first convex portion 52 in the vertical direction D1 is shorter than the length of the horizontal component of the opening edge 21. The distance between the opening edge 21 and the first convex portion 52 in the vertical direction D1 is a second distance L3. The second distance L3 may be the distance between the opening edge 21 and a portion of the first convex portion 52 that is closest to the opening edge 21 in the vertical direction D1. The second distance L3 may be the distance between the opening edge 21 and a portion that is farthest from the opening edge 21 in the vertical direction D1. The second distance L3 is shorter than the first length L1.

[0056] The second protrusion 53 extends upward from the first protrusion 52. The second protrusion 53 extends, for example, from an end of the first protrusion 52. The second protrusion 53 extends, for example, from the second end 55. The end of the second protrusion 53 is connected to the second end 55. The second protrusion 53 extends in the vertical direction D1. The second protrusion 53 extends in a curved manner from the first protrusion 52.

[0057] The second protrusion 53 is connected, for example, to the second introduction portion 32. The second protrusion 53 is connected, for example, to the vertical portion 35. The second protrusion 53 extends, for example, to extend the vertical portion 35. The second protrusion 53 is connected to the opening end 21. An end of the second protrusion 53 is connected to the opening end 21. The first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 53 separate the introduction chamber 42 and the first storage chamber 43.

[0058] The second protrusion 53 has a base end 56 and a tip end 57. The base end 56 and the tip end 57 are each an end of the second protrusion 53. The base end 56 is connected to, for example, the second end 55. The tip end 57 is connected to, for example, the open end 21. The base end 56 is located lower than the tip end 57.

[0059] For example, the second protrusion 53 does not have to be connected to the open end 21. In this case, it is preferable that the second protrusion 53 extends from the first protrusion 52 so that the tip 57 is located above the open end 21.

[0060] In the horizontal direction D2, the distance between the first end 54 and the open end 21 is greater than the distance between the second end 55 and the open end 21. That is, the first distance L2 is greater than the distance between the second end 55 and the open end 21. In this example, when viewed from the vertical direction D1, the second end 55 and the open end 21 overlap, and therefore the distance between the second end 55 and the open end 21 in the horizontal direction D2 is zero.

[0061] 2, the tank unit 18 includes an atmosphere opening section 61. The atmosphere opening section 61 is configured to be able to open the inside of the storage section 19 to the atmosphere. In other words, the atmosphere opening section 61 is able to open the storage chamber 41 to the atmosphere. The atmosphere opening section 61 includes, for example, a first atmosphere opening section 62 and a second atmosphere opening section 63.

[0062] The first atmosphere open portion 62 extends from the storage portion 19. The first atmosphere open portion 62 is, for example, a pipe. The first open path 48 opens to the first atmosphere open portion 62. Therefore, the first atmosphere open portion 62 opens the introduction chamber 42 and the first storage chamber 43 to the atmosphere.

[0063] The second atmosphere open portion 63 extends from the storage portion 19. The second atmosphere open portion 63 is, for example, a pipe. The second open path 49 opens to the second atmosphere open portion 63. Therefore, the second atmosphere open portion 63 opens the second storage chamber 44 to the atmosphere.

[0064] The atmosphere opening section 61 may include, for example, a third atmosphere opening section that directly opens the introduction chamber 42 to the atmosphere. The atmosphere opening section 61 may be connected to a connecting pipe to which a pump is connected. In this case, the pump may pressurize or depressurize each of the first storage chamber 43 and the second storage chamber 44.

[0065] The tank unit 18 includes an outlet portion 64. The outlet portion 64 is configured to outlet the liquid stored in the storage portion 19. The outlet portion 64 outlets the liquid stored in the storage chamber 41.

[0066] The outlet portion 64 extends from the storage portion 19. The outlet portion 64 is, for example, a pipe. The outlet portion 64 is connected to, for example, the second storage chamber 44. The outlet portion 64 is connected to, for example, the lower part of the second storage chamber 44. The supply flow path 22 is connected to the outlet portion 64. The liquid stored in the second storage chamber 44 is supplied to the head 13 through the outlet portion 64 and the supply flow path 22.

[0067] The tank unit 18 may include a connection portion 65. The connection portion 65 extends from the storage portion 19. The connection portion 65 is, for example, a pipe. The connection portion 65 communicates with the first storage chamber 43. The connection portion 65 communicates with, for example, the lower portion of the first storage chamber 43. The connection portion 65 is connected to, for example, a flow path extending from the head 13. In this case, liquid can be introduced from the first storage chamber 43 to the head 13 through the connection portion 65. Furthermore, by returning liquid from the head 13 to the storage portion 19 through the connection portion 65, liquid can be circulated between the head 13 and the storage portion 19.

[0068] Tank unit 18 may include a remaining amount sensor 66. Remaining amount sensor 66 is a sensor that detects the remaining amount of liquid stored in storage portion 19. Remaining amount sensor 66 detects the remaining amount, for example, by detecting the liquid level in storage portion 19. Remaining amount sensor 66 is located, for example, in first storage chamber 43. For example, when control portion 25 determines that the remaining amount of liquid is low based on the detection result of remaining amount sensor 66, it may cause notification portion 24 to issue a message urging replacement of container 17.

[0069] Next, a description will be given of a case where the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted. The tank unit 18 is likely to tilt, for example, when the liquid discharger 11 is being transported. As shown in FIG. 4 , when the attitude of tank unit 18 is tilted so that introduction portion 20 is displaced upward, that is, so that one end of storage portion 19 is positioned higher than the other end of reference line A1, liquid accumulates in blocking portion 51. More specifically, the liquid that was stored in introduction chamber 42 and the liquid introduced from introduction portion 20 accumulate in blocking portion 51. The liquid that accumulates in blocking portion 51 blocks open end 21. That is, the liquid that accumulates in blocking portion 51 blocks the introduction of liquid. This reduces the risk of more liquid than necessary being introduced into storage portion 19. Therefore, the risk of the liquid level in storage chamber 41 becoming high is reduced.

[0070] When the attitude of tank unit 18 is tilted so that introduction portion 20 is displaced downward, that is, so that one end of storage portion 19 is positioned lower than the other end of reference line A1, liquid flows from first storage chamber 43 into introduction chamber 42. In this case, opening end 21 and the liquid surface do not separate, so opening end 21 remains blocked by the liquid. Therefore, in this case, there is no risk of more liquid than necessary being introduced into storage portion 19.

[0071] The inclination angle of the tank unit 18 at which the blocking portion 51 blocks the introduction of liquid is determined by the shape and position of the first convex portion 52 and the second convex portion 53. In this example, the blocking portion 51 blocks the introduction of liquid when the inclination angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds 8 degrees. The blocking portion 51 reduces the introduction speed of liquid when the inclination angle of the tank unit 18 is greater than 0 degrees but less than 8 degrees. This is because the inclination of the tank unit 18 causes the first convex portion 52 to tilt so that the first end 54 is displaced upward relative to the second end 55. This makes it difficult for liquid to flow over the first convex portion 52. Therefore, the liquid level in the storage chamber 41 is less likely to rise. If the tank unit 18 is tilted so that the first end 54 is positioned above the open end 21, liquid will not flow from the introduction chamber 42 to the first storage chamber 43. In reality, the surface tension of the liquid will block the introduction of liquid even when the first end 54 is positioned lower than the open end 21.

[0072] The longer the length of the horizontal component of the first convex portion 52, for example, the greater the sum of the first length L1 and the first distance L2, the more difficult it is for liquid to flow from the introduction chamber 42 to the first storage chamber 43 when the tank unit 18 is tilted. The longer the length of the horizontal component of the first convex portion 52, the greater the displacement of the first end portion 54 relative to the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 when the tank unit 18 is tilted. Therefore, the longer the length of the horizontal component of the first convex portion 52, the more quickly the introduction of liquid is blocked when the tank unit 18 is tilted. Furthermore, the greater the first distance L2 is compared to the first length L1, the more quickly the introduction of liquid is blocked when the tank unit 18 is tilted.

[0073] The smaller the second distance L3, i.e., the shorter the distance between the opening end 21 and the first convex portion 52 in the vertical direction D1, the more difficult it is for the liquid introduced from the introduction portion 20 to pass between the opening end 21 and the first convex portion 52 when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted. In other words, the smaller the second distance L3, the more difficult it is for air to flow from the storage portion 19 to the housing body 17 when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted. Therefore, the smaller the second distance L3, the more quickly the introduction of liquid is blocked when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted.

[0074] Next, the operation and effects of the above embodiment will be described. (1) Storage section 19 has blocking section 51 including first convex portion 52 located at a position facing open end 21 in vertical direction D1 and second convex portion 53 extending upward from first convex portion 52. The length of the horizontal component of first convex portion 52 is longer than the length of the horizontal component of open end 21.

[0075] According to the above configuration, when the attitude of tank unit 18 is tilted, liquid accumulates in blocking portion 51. The liquid accumulated in blocking portion 51 blocks open end 21. This prevents liquid from being introduced from accommodating body 17 into storage portion 19. That is, the risk of the liquid level in storage portion 19 becoming too high is reduced. Therefore, the risk of liquid leaking out of head 13 is reduced.

[0076] (2) The distance between the opening end 21 and the first protrusion 52 in the vertical direction D1 is shorter than the length of the horizontal component at the opening end 21. According to the above configuration, when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted, liquid is more likely to accumulate in the blocking portion 51 than when the distance between the opening end 21 and the first convex portion 52 in the vertical direction D1 is greater than the length of the horizontal component of the opening end 21. Therefore, when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted, the opening end 21 is blocked by the liquid that accumulates in the blocking portion 51 at a relatively early stage. Therefore, when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted, it is possible to prevent liquid from being introduced from the accommodation body 17 into the storage portion 19 at a relatively early stage.

[0077] (3) Inlet portion 20 is located closer to one end of reservoir 19 than the middle position of reservoir 19 in horizontal direction D2. First protrusion 52 has first end 54 and second end 55. Second protrusion 53 extends from second end 55.

[0078] According to the above configuration, when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted so that the introduction section 20 is displaced upward, liquid is likely to accumulate in the blocking section 51. Therefore, when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted so that the introduction section 20 is displaced upward, the risk of the liquid level in the storage section 19 becoming high can be reduced.

[0079] (4) In the horizontal direction D2, the distance between the first end 54 and the open end 21 is greater than the distance between the second end 55 and the open end 21. According to the above configuration, when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted so that the introduction part 20 is displaced upward, liquid is more likely to accumulate in the blocking part 51 than when the distance between the first end 54 and the opening end 21 in the horizontal direction D2 is smaller than the distance between the second end 55 and the opening end 21. Therefore, when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted so that the introduction part 20 is displaced upward, the risk of the liquid level in the storage part 19 becoming high can be reduced.

[0080] (5) The second protrusion 53 is connected to the opening end 21 . According to the above configuration, when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted so that the introduction section 20 is displaced upward, liquid is likely to accumulate in the blocking section 51. Therefore, when the attitude of the tank unit 18 is tilted so that the introduction section 20 is displaced upward, the risk of the liquid level in the storage section 19 becoming high can be reduced.

[0081] (6) The introduction section 20 has a horizontal portion 34 extending in the horizontal direction D2 and a vertical portion 35 extending in the vertical direction D1. According to the above configuration, since introduction portion 20 has horizontal portion 34, first convex portion 52 can be disposed long in horizontal direction D2 within storage portion 19. Therefore, when the attitude of tank unit 18 is tilted, opening end 21 is blocked by the liquid accumulated in blocking portion 51 at a relatively early stage. Therefore, when the attitude of tank unit 18 is tilted, it is possible to prevent liquid from being introduced from accommodating body 17 into storage portion 19 at a relatively early stage.

[0082] (7) The control unit 25 prohibits printing when the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle. When the tank unit 18 is tilted, the liquid level in the reservoir 19 becomes high, which may prevent the liquid from being properly discharged from the reservoir 19 to the head 13. According to the above configuration, when the liquid is not properly discharged from the reservoir 19 to the head 13, printing is prohibited, thereby reducing the risk of wasting liquid.

[0083] (8) When the tilt angle of the tank unit 18 exceeds a predetermined angle, the control unit 25 causes the notification unit 24 to notify a request to reduce the tilt angle of the tank unit 18. According to the above configuration, it is possible to request the user to reduce the tilt angle of the tank unit 18. This allows the liquid discharger 11 to operate in an appropriate environment.

[0084] 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. As shown in FIG. 5 , the second protrusion 53 does not have to be connected to the open end 21. For example, the second protrusion 53 may extend upward from the first protrusion 52 along the introduction portion 20. The tip 57 is located above the open end 21. In this modification, the distance between the second end 55 and the open end 21 in the horizontal direction D2 is not zero but is a third distance L4. In this modification, the distance between the reference line A1 and the second end 55 in the horizontal direction D2 is shorter than the distance between the reference line A1 and the open end 21 in the horizontal direction D2. For example, the distance between the first end 54 and the open end 21 in the horizontal direction D2 is greater than the third distance L4.

[0085] 6, when the attitude of tank unit 18 is tilted so that introduction portion 20 is displaced upward, liquid accumulates in blocking portion 51. The liquid accumulated in blocking portion 51 blocks open end 21. Therefore, when the attitude of tank unit 18 is tilted, the introduction of liquid is blocked. This reduces the risk of more liquid than necessary being introduced into storage portion 19.

[0086] The liquid ejected by the head 13 is not limited to ink, but may be a liquid in which particles of a functional material are dispersed or mixed in a liquid. For example, the head 13 may eject a liquid containing dispersed or dissolved materials such as electrode materials or pixel materials used in the manufacture of liquid crystal displays, electroluminescent displays, and surface-emitting displays.

[0087] The technical concepts and effects that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described below. (A) The tank unit is a tank unit that can introduce liquid supplied from a container and can discharge the liquid toward a head that can eject the liquid, and is equipped with a storage section that stores the liquid supplied from the container, an introduction section that introduces liquid supplied from the container by a head difference into the storage section, an atmosphere opening section that can open the inside of the storage section to the atmosphere, and an outlet section that discharges the liquid stored in the storage section, wherein the introduction section is connected to the storage section, extends vertically within the storage section, and has an opening end located within the storage section, and the storage section has a blocking section that includes a first convex section located at a position opposite the opening end in the vertical direction, and a second convex section extending upward from the first convex section, and the length of the horizontal component of the first convex section is longer than the length of the horizontal component of the opening end.

[0088] According to the above configuration, when the tank unit is tilted, liquid accumulates in the blocking section. The liquid accumulated in the blocking section blocks the open end. This prevents liquid from being introduced from the container into the storage section. In other words, the risk of the liquid level in the storage section becoming too high is reduced. Therefore, the risk of liquid leaking out of the head is reduced.

[0089] (B) In the tank unit, the distance between the opening end and the first protrusion in the vertical direction may be smaller than the length of the horizontal component at the opening end. According to the above configuration, when the tank unit is tilted, the opening end is blocked by the liquid accumulated in the blocking section at a relatively early stage, and therefore, when the tank unit is tilted, it is possible to prevent the liquid from being introduced from the container into the storage section at a relatively early stage.

[0090] (C) In the above tank unit, the introduction portion may be located horizontally closer to one end of the storage portion than the intermediate position of the storage portion, the first convex portion may have a first end and a second end, the first end being the end of the first convex portion that is farther from the intermediate position in the horizontal direction, the second end being the end of the first convex portion that is closer to the intermediate position in the horizontal direction, and the second convex portion may extend from the second end.

[0091] According to the above configuration, when the attitude of the tank unit is tilted so that the introduction section is displaced upward, liquid is likely to accumulate in the blocking section. Therefore, when the attitude of the tank unit is tilted so that the introduction section is displaced upward, the risk of the liquid level in the storage section becoming high can be reduced.

[0092] (D) In ​​the tank unit, the distance between the first end and the open end in the horizontal direction may be greater than the distance between the second end and the open end. According to the above configuration, when the attitude of the tank unit is tilted so that the introduction section is displaced upward, liquid is likely to accumulate in the blocking section. Therefore, when the attitude of the tank unit is tilted so that the introduction section is displaced upward, the risk of the liquid level in the storage section becoming high can be reduced.

[0093] (E) In the tank unit, the second protrusion may be connected to the opening end. According to the above configuration, when the attitude of the tank unit is tilted so that the introduction section is displaced upward, liquid is likely to accumulate in the blocking section. Therefore, when the attitude of the tank unit is tilted so that the introduction section is displaced upward, the risk of the liquid level in the storage section becoming high can be reduced.

[0094] (F) In the tank unit, the introduction section may have a horizontal portion extending horizontally and a vertical portion extending vertically. According to the above configuration, the introduction portion has a horizontal portion, so that the first protrusion can be arranged horizontally and elongated within the storage portion. Therefore, when the tank unit is tilted, the opening end is blocked by the liquid accumulated in the blocking portion at a relatively early stage. Therefore, when the tank unit is tilted, the introduction of liquid from the container into the storage portion can be prevented at a relatively early stage.

[0095] (G) A liquid ejection device includes the tank unit and a head that ejects the liquid supplied from the tank unit. According to the above configuration, the same effects as those of the tank unit described above can be obtained.

[0096] (H) The liquid ejection device may include a detection unit that detects the tilt angle of the tank unit relative to the horizontal, and a control unit, and the control unit may prohibit printing when the tilt angle of the tank unit exceeds a predetermined angle.

[0097] When the tank unit is tilted, the liquid level in the reservoir rises, which can cause the liquid to not flow properly from the reservoir to the head. With the above configuration, printing is prohibited when the liquid is not flowing properly from the reservoir to the head, thereby reducing the risk of wasting liquid.

[0098] (I) The liquid ejection device may include an alarm unit that notifies the user of information, and the control unit may cause the alarm unit to notify the user of a request to reduce the tilt angle of the tank unit when the tilt angle of the tank unit exceeds a predetermined angle.

[0099] According to the above configuration, the user can request that the tilt angle of the tank unit be reduced, thereby allowing the liquid ejection device to operate in an appropriate environment. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 11...liquid ejection device, 12...casing, 13...head, 14...nozzle, 15...nozzle surface, 16...mounting portion, 17...accommodating body, 18...tank unit, 19...storage portion, 20...introduction portion, 21...opening end, 22...supply flow path, 23...detection portion, 24...notification portion, 25...control portion, 31...first introduction portion, 32...second introduction portion, 33...first introduction path, 34...horizontal portion, 35...vertical portion, 36...second introduction path, 41...storage chamber, 42...introduction chamber, 43...first storage chamber, 44...second storage chamber, 45...connection path, 46...large Air release path, 47...inlet release path, 48...first release path, 49...second release path, 51...blocking section, 52...first convex section, 53...second convex section, 54...first end, 55...second end, 56...base end, 57...tip section, 61...atmosphere release section, 62...first atmosphere release section, 63...second atmosphere release section, 64...outlet section, 65...connection section, 66...remaining amount sensor, 99...medium, A1...reference line, D1...vertical direction, D2...horizontal direction, L1...first length, L2...first distance, L3...second distance, L4...third distance, P1...standard position.

Claims

1. A tank unit capable of introducing liquid supplied from a container and discharging the liquid toward a head capable of ejecting the liquid, a reservoir that stores the liquid supplied from the container; an introduction section that introduces the liquid supplied from the container by a head difference into the storage section; an atmosphere opening portion that can open the inside of the storage portion to the atmosphere; a discharge portion that discharges the liquid stored in the storage portion, The introduction section connected to the reservoir, extending vertically within the storage section, an open end located within the reservoir; the storage section has a blocking section that blocks introduction of liquid by collecting liquid when the attitude of the tank unit is tilted, the blocking portion has a first convex portion located at a position facing the opening end in the vertical direction and a second convex portion extending upward from the first convex portion, A tank unit characterized in that the length of the horizontal component of the first convex portion is longer than the length of the horizontal component of the opening end.

2. 2. The tank unit according to claim 1, wherein a distance between the opening end and the first protrusion in the vertical direction is shorter than a length of a horizontal component at the opening end.

3. the introduction section is located closer to one end of the storage section than to a middle position of the storage section in the horizontal direction, The first protrusion has a first end and a second end, the first end portion is an end portion of both ends of the first protrusion portion that is farther from the intermediate position in the horizontal direction, the second end portion is one of both ends of the first protrusion portion that is closer to the intermediate position in the horizontal direction, 3. The tank unit according to claim 1, wherein the second protrusion extends from the second end.

4. 4. The tank unit according to claim 3, wherein the distance between the first end and the open end in the horizontal direction is greater than the distance between the second end and the open end.

5. 5. The tank unit according to claim 3, wherein the second protrusion is connected to the opening end.

6. 6. The tank unit according to claim 1, wherein the introduction section has a horizontal portion extending horizontally and a vertical portion extending vertically.

7. The tank unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, a head that ejects the liquid supplied from the tank unit.

8. a detector for detecting an inclination angle of the tank unit relative to the horizontal; a control unit, The liquid ejection device according to claim 7 , wherein the control unit prohibits printing when the tilt angle of the tank unit exceeds a predetermined angle.

9. A notification unit is provided to notify the user of information, The liquid ejection device according to claim 8 , wherein the control unit causes the notification unit to notify the request to reduce the tilt angle of the tank unit when the tilt angle of the tank unit exceeds a predetermined angle.

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