cartridge

Abstract

To improve a liquid leakage prevention property of a liquid supply device.SOLUTION: A liquid supply device capable of being detachably attached to an image formation apparatus comprises: a storage part for storing liquid; a supply part for supplying the liquid stored in the storage part to the image formation apparatus; an atmosphere communication port 96 which is open to the outside of the liquid supply device; and further, a channel member 21 with a connection channel 21a formed therein. According to movement of the channel member 21, the liquid supply device can be switched between an open state in which the connection channel 21a of the channel member 21 connects the storage part and the atmosphere communication port 96, and a sealed state in which the connection channel 21a does not connect the storage part and the atmosphere communication port 96.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid supply apparatus that supplies liquid to an image forming apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] As an example of a liquid supply apparatus, an ink cartridge is known which is attachable to and detachable from an image forming apparatus such as an inkjet recording apparatus, and stores ink to be supplied to the image forming apparatus inside. In such an ink cartridge, in order to supply the internal ink to the image forming apparatus, a communication port that communicates with the atmosphere is formed separately from the ink supply port. Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which a semipermeable membrane that blocks the flow of fluid and allows the flow of atmosphere is provided at the atmosphere communication port.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the above-described configuration, since only the semipermeable membrane isolates the inside and the outside of the liquid supply apparatus, the liquid leakage prevention performance of the liquid supply apparatus is low. Therefore, when the liquid supply apparatus is removed from the image forming apparatus, the atmosphere communication port is open, so if the liquid supply apparatus is not handled with care to its posture and the like, there is a possibility that the liquid remaining inside will leak out.

[0005] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to improve the liquid leakage prevention performance of a liquid supply apparatus that is attachable to and detachable from an image forming apparatus and supplies internal liquid to the image forming apparatus.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above object, the present invention cartridgeteeth, Detachable to the image forming apparatus cartridge And, A container for holding liquid, A supply unit that supplies the liquid contained in the storage unit to the image forming apparatus, cartridge An air vent that opens to the outside, Equipped with, The system further comprises a flow channel member in which a connecting flow channel is formed inside, By moving the flow channel member, it is possible to switch between an open state in which the connecting flow channel of the flow channel member connects the housing and the atmospheric communication port, and a sealed state in which the connecting flow channel does not connect the housing and the atmospheric communication port. the law of nature, A communication channel is formed between the housing portion and the flow channel member. The flow channel member is provided so as to be rotatable between a first position in which the outer wall surface of the flow channel member closes the communication channel and a second position in which one end of the connecting channel opens to the communication channel. It is characterized by the following: [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, the liquid leakage prevention performance of a liquid supply device that is detachable from an image forming apparatus and supplies internal liquid to the image forming apparatus can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge according to Example 1. [Figure 2] This figure shows the atmospheric communication section of the ink cartridge according to Example 1. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the operation of the flow path member of the atmospheric communication section according to Example 1. [Figure 4] This figure shows the atmospheric communication section of the ink cartridge according to Example 2. [Figure 5] This figure shows the atmospheric communication section of the ink cartridge according to Example 3. [Figure 6] This figure shows the atmospheric communication section of the ink cartridge according to Example 4. [Figure 7] This figure shows the atmospheric communication section of the ink cartridge according to Example 5. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments for carrying out this invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings, based on examples. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the components described in these embodiments should be appropriately modified depending on the configuration of the device to which the invention is applied and various conditions. In other words, the scope of this invention is not intended to be limited to the following embodiments.

[0010] <Example 1> Referring to Figure 1, the ink cartridge 100 according to Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge 100. The ink cartridge 100 stores ink inside and is configured to be detachable from an image forming apparatus such as an inkjet printer. In the following description, the vertical direction when the ink cartridge 100 is in the position to be mounted on the image forming apparatus will be referred to as the up-down direction, and the direction in which the ink cartridge 100 is attached to or detached from the image forming apparatus will be referred to as the front-back direction. In this embodiment, the back direction is the direction in which the ink cartridge 100 is mounted on the image forming apparatus, and the front direction is the direction in which the ink cartridge 100 is removed from the image forming apparatus.

[0011] The body 31 of the ink cartridge 100 contains an ink chamber 32, a storage chamber 33, an ink valve chamber 35, and an atmospheric communication section 103. The ink chamber 32, storage chamber 33, and ink valve chamber 35 each store ink inside. In this embodiment, the ink cartridge 100 has the storage chamber 33 and the ink valve chamber 35 arranged adjacent to each other, with the ink chamber 32 positioned above them. The ink chamber 32 and the storage chamber 33 are connected by a through hole (not shown), and the storage chamber 33 and the ink valve chamber 35 are connected by a through hole 99 formed at the lower end of the storage chamber 33.

[0012] The ink chamber 32 is a storage portion that stores ink inside, and an atmosphere communication portion 103 is provided at the upper part of the ink chamber 32. Between the ink chamber 32 and the atmosphere communication portion 103, an atmosphere communication flow path 101 is formed as a communication flow path. The ink chamber 32, the storage chamber 33, and the ink valve chamber 35 are communicated with the atmosphere via the atmosphere communication flow path 101 and the atmosphere communication chamber 102 in the atmosphere communication portion 103. The atmosphere communication portion 103 has the atmosphere communication chamber 102 and a flow path switching mechanism, and the mechanism can open and close the passage between the atmosphere communication flow path 101 and the atmosphere communication chamber 102. The atmosphere communication chamber 102 is provided with an atmosphere communication port 96 that opens to the outside of the main body 31 (the outside of the liquid supply device), and the atmosphere communication chamber 102 communicates with the outside of the main body 31. That is, the ink chamber 32, the storage chamber 33, and the ink valve chamber 35 communicate with the outside of the main body 31 via the atmosphere communication flow path 101, the atmosphere communication chamber 102, and the atmosphere communication port 96. Note that a configuration in which a semipermeable membrane that blocks the flow of fluid while allowing communication of the atmosphere is provided in the vicinity of the atmosphere communication port 96 may also be adopted.

[0013] The rear of the ink cartridge 100 of the present embodiment has a stepped shape, with the upper side protruding rearward more than the lower side. Further, from a stepped surface 49 recessed forward on the lower rear side of the ink cartridge 100, a cylindrical supply portion 34 protrudes rearward. The supply portion 34 is a part that is connected to the image forming apparatus and supplies the ink in the ink cartridge 100 to the image forming apparatus, and an ink valve chamber 35 for preventing ink leakage is formed inside the supply portion 34. As described above, the front end of the ink valve chamber 35 communicates with the lower end of the storage chamber 33 through the through hole 99.

[0014] The supply portion 34 includes a cylindrical portion 75, a seal member 76, a valve 77, a coil spring 78, and a cover member 79. The seal member 76 is provided at the rear end portion of the supply portion 34, and the seal member 76 has an ink supply port 71 that penetrates in the front-rear direction and opens to the outside of the ink cartridge 100. Further, the cover member 79 that covers the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 75 is provided with an opening 88. That is, the ink valve chamber 35 communicates with the outside of the ink cartridge 100 via the ink supply port 71 and the opening 88.

[0015] The seal member 76 is a disk-shaped member in which an ink supply port 71, which is a hole penetrating in the front-rear direction, is formed at the center. The seal member 76 is formed of an elastic material such as rubber or elastomer, for example.

[0016] Further, the valve 77 and the coil spring 78 are accommodated inside the ink valve chamber 35. The valve 77 is a member that closes the ink supply port 71 of the seal member 76, and the ink supply port 71 is opened and closed by moving in the front-rear direction. Further, the coil spring 78 is a member that biases the valve 77 rearward. Accordingly, in a state where no external force is applied, the valve 77 biased by the coil spring 78 closes the ink supply port 71 of the seal member 76 to prevent ink leakage. On the other hand, an introduction tube such as a needle of the image forming apparatus is inserted into the supply portion 34, and the seal member 76 is biased forward, whereby the ink inside the ink cartridge 100 can be supplied to the image forming apparatus.

[0017] Next, the configuration of the air communication portion 103 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Figs. 2(a) and 2(b). Fig. 2(a) is a top view of the air communication portion 103, and Fig. 2(b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the air communication portion 103. The air communication portion 103 is provided with a flow path member 21 that is adjacent to the air communication chamber 102 and can move linearly in the front-rear direction, and a lever 23 connected to the flow path member 21. The lever 23 is an operation portion for moving the flow path member 21, extends forward from the front end surface of the flow path member 21, and is bent upward. The upper distal end portion of the lever 23 is inserted into a lever guide portion 25 formed in the main body 31, and protrudes outward from the main body 31. The lever guide portion 25 is a substantially L-shaped opening penetrating in the vertical direction. An operator can move the flow path member 21 by operating a part of the lever 23 protruding to the outside of the main body 31. Further, the image forming apparatus may be provided with an engaging portion that engages with the lever 23, and a mechanism that moves the lever 23 and the flow path member 21 when the ink cartridge 100 is attached and detached.

[0018] The flow channel member 21 is a cylindrical member with a first flow channel 21a and a second flow channel 21b formed inside. By moving the flow channel member 21, it is possible to selectively connect the flow channels inside the flow channel member 21 with the atmospheric communication flow channel 101. The first flow channel 21a is a connecting flow channel that connects the atmospheric communication flow channel 101 with the atmospheric communication chamber 102, with one end extending to the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member 21 and the other end extending to the end face of the flow channel member 21 on the atmospheric communication chamber 102 side. The second flow channel 21b is a connecting flow channel that connects the atmospheric communication flow channel 101 with the outside of the ink cartridge 100, with both ends extending to the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member 21.

[0019] Furthermore, the cylindrical flow channel member 21 is provided with multiple sealing members 27 on its outer circumference. The flow channel member 21 is movable between a first position where its outer surface blocks the atmospheric communication channel 101, a second position where the first channel 21a communicates with the atmospheric communication channel 101, and a third position where the second channel 21b communicates with the atmospheric communication channel 101. The first position is where the flow channel member 21 is closest to the atmospheric communication chamber 102, the second position is where the flow channel member 21 is furthest from the atmospheric communication chamber 102, and the third position is between the first and second positions. The sealing members 27 are arranged to prevent ink leakage regardless of which of these positions the flow channel member 21 is in.

[0020] Furthermore, above the atmospheric communication channel 101, there is an ink filling port 104 that opens to the outside of the ink cartridge 100, and a plug 105 that closes the ink filling port 104. (Channel member 2) When 1 moves to a predetermined position, the second flow path 21b connects the atmospheric communication flow path 101 and the ink filling port 104, and by removing the stopper 105, the ink cartridge 100 becomes ready to be refilled with ink into the ink chamber 32. In other words, the atmospheric communication section 103 includes an atmospheric communication port (first atmospheric communication port) 96 and an ink filling port (second atmospheric communication port) 104 as communication ports that open to the outside of the main body 31.

[0021] Next, the function of the atmospheric communication section 103 will be explained with reference to Figures 3(a) to 3(c). Figure 3(a) is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the flow channel member 21 is in the first position and the atmospheric communication channel 101 is blocked by the outer surface (outer wall surface) of the flow channel member 21. That is, when the flow channel member 21 is in the first position, the ink cartridge 100 is in a sealed state with its interior isolated from the outside atmosphere. When ink is not supplied or filled, such as before the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the image forming apparatus, the flow channel member 21 is in the first position, blocking the atmospheric communication channel 101 and preventing ink leakage.

[0022] Figure 3(b) is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the flow channel member 21 is in the second position and the first flow channel 21a and the atmospheric communication flow channel 101 are in communication. When the flow channel member 21 is in the second position, one end of the first flow channel 21a on the atmospheric communication flow channel 101 side and the other end opposite to it are open to the atmospheric communication chamber 102, and a flow channel is formed in the direction of the arrow in Figure 3(b). That is, the ink chamber 32 is in communication with the outside of the ink cartridge 100 via the atmospheric communication flow channel 101, the first flow channel 21a, the atmospheric communication chamber 102, and the atmospheric communication port 96. When the flow channel member 21 is in the second position, the ink cartridge 100 is in an open state with its interior open to the outside atmosphere. When the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the image forming apparatus with its interior in communication with the outside atmosphere, it becomes possible to supply ink from the ink cartridge 100 to the image forming apparatus.

[0023] Figure 3(c) is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the flow channel member 21 is in the third position and the second flow channel 21b and the atmospheric communication flow channel 101 are in communication. When one end of the second flow channel 21b is open to the atmospheric communication flow channel 101, the other end of the second flow channel 21b is open to the ink filling port 104, and a flow channel is formed in the direction of the arrow in Figure 3(c). That is, when the flow channel member 21 is in the third position, the ink chamber 32 is in communication with the outside of the ink cartridge 100 via the atmospheric communication flow channel 101, the second flow channel 21b, and the ink filling port 104. When the flow channel member 21 is in the third position, the ink cartridge 100 is in an open state with its interior open to the outside atmosphere. With this configuration, when refilling the ink cartridge 100 with ink, the ink is filled without going through the atmospheric communication chamber 102 or the first flow channel 21a, which are air passages. Consequently, the atmospheric communication chamber 102, etc., are not contaminated by ink refilling. Furthermore, after refilling the ink, ink leakage can be prevented by moving the flow path member 21 to the first position.

[0024] Furthermore, in order to effectively utilize the present invention, it is preferable that the image forming apparatus be provided with a mechanism or engagement part that moves the lever 23 and the flow path member 21 integrally when the ink cartridge 100 is attached or detached. When the ink cartridge 100 is attached to the image forming apparatus, the lever 23 moves due to the mechanism, and the flow path member 21 moves from the first position to the second position. On the other hand, when the ink cartridge 100 is removed from the image forming apparatus, the lever 23 moves due to the engagement part, and the flow path member 21 moves from the second position to the first position. With this configuration, ink leakage can be prevented when the ink cartridge 100 is removed from the image forming apparatus, thus more reliably preventing ink leakage and improving the workability of replacing liquid supply devices such as ink cartridges.

[0025] As described above, according to the present invention, the ink cartridge 100 can be configured to switch between an open state in which the interior is exposed to the atmosphere and a sealed state in which the interior is sealed from the atmosphere. Furthermore, when the ink cartridge 100 is removed from the image forming apparatus, the ink cartridge Since the inside of the cartridge 100 is sealed, ink leakage can be prevented. Also, when refilling the ink, the ink can be filled into the ink chamber 32 without passing through the atmospheric communication chamber 102 or the first flow path 21a, thus preventing contamination of the atmospheric communication chamber 102 and other parts. Furthermore, since an ink filling port 104 with a larger hole diameter is provided separately from the atmospheric communication port 96, the workability of cleaning the inside of the ink cartridge 100 and refilling the ink when reusing the ink cartridge is also improved.

[0026] <Example 2> Next, an embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 4(a) to 4(c). Figure 4(a) is a top view of the atmospheric communication section 203 according to embodiment 2. Figure 4(b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the atmospheric communication section 203 showing the state in which the atmospheric communication channel 101 is blocked. Figure 4(c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the atmospheric communication section 203 showing the state in which the atmospheric communication channel 101 and the atmospheric communication chamber 102 are in communication.

[0027] Example 2 differs from Example 1 in that only one flow path is provided within the flow path member. Hereinafter, components similar to those in Example 1 will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted. The characteristic features of Example 2 will be described below.

[0028] In the 2nd embodiment, the flow channel member 221 provided in the atmospheric communication section 203 is provided with a flow channel 221a that can connect the atmospheric communication flow channel 101 and the atmospheric communication chamber 102. One end of the flow channel 221a extends to the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member 221, and the other end extends to the end face of the flow channel member 221 on the atmospheric communication chamber 102 side. As shown in Figure 4(b), when the flow channel member 221 is in the first position, the atmospheric communication flow channel 101 is blocked by the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member 221, preventing ink leakage.

[0029] As shown in Figure 4(c), when the flow path member 221 is in the second position, one end of the flow path 221a opens to the atmospheric communication chamber 102 and the other end opens to the atmospheric communication flow path 101, so that the atmospheric communication chamber 102 and the atmospheric communication flow path 101 are in communication. The ink chamber 32 is then in communication with the outside of the ink cartridge 100 via the atmospheric communication flow path 101, the flow path 221a, the atmospheric communication chamber 102, and the atmospheric communication port 96.

[0030] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to reliably prevent ink from leaking from the ink cartridge 100 when the ink cartridge 100 is removed from the image forming apparatus. Furthermore, the atmospheric communication section 203 is not provided with an ink refill port for refilling ink, and only a flow path 221a is formed inside the flow path member 221. Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared to Embodiment 1, it is possible to miniaturize the atmospheric communication section 203 and, consequently, the ink cartridge 100. In this embodiment as well, it is preferable that the image forming apparatus be provided with a mechanism or engagement part that moves the lever 23 and the flow path member 21 together when attaching or detaching the ink cartridge 100.

[0031] <Example 3> Next, Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 5(a) to (c). Figure 5(a) is a top view of the atmospheric communication section 303 according to Embodiment 3. Figure 5(b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the atmospheric communication section 303 showing the state in which the atmospheric communication channel 101 and the ink filling port 104 are in communication. Figure 5(c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the atmospheric communication section 303 showing the state in which the atmospheric communication channel 101 and the atmospheric communication chamber 102 are in communication.

[0032] Example 3 differs from Example 2 in that when the flow channel member is in the first position, the second flow channel within the flow channel member communicates with the atmospheric communication channel. Hereinafter, components similar to those in Example 1 and Example 2 will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted. The characteristic features of Example 3 will be described below.

[0033] The flow path member 321 provided in the atmospheric communication section 303 of Embodiment 3 is provided with a first flow path 321a that can connect the atmospheric communication flow path 101 and the atmospheric communication chamber 102, and a second flow path 321b that can connect the atmospheric communication flow path 101 and the ink filling port 104. When the flow path member 321 is in the first position shown in Figure 5(b), the second flow path 321b opens to the atmospheric communication flow path 101, and the atmospheric communication flow path 101 and the ink filling port 104 are in communication via the second flow path 321b. To prevent ink leakage, the ink filling port 104 is sealed by the stopper 105, thereby preventing ink leakage. On the other hand, when refilling the ink cartridge 100 with ink, the stopper 105 can be removed and ink can be injected through the ink filling port 104.

[0034] As shown in Figure 5(c), when the flow channel member 321 is in the second position, one end of the first flow channel 321a opens to the atmospheric communication chamber 102 and the other end opens to the atmospheric communication flow channel 101, so that the atmospheric communication chamber 102 and the atmospheric communication flow channel 101 are in communication. The ink chamber 32 is then in communication with the outside of the ink cartridge 100 via the atmospheric communication flow channel 101, the first flow channel 321a, the atmospheric communication chamber 102, and the atmospheric communication port 96, enabling the supply of ink from the ink cartridge 100 to the image forming apparatus.

[0035] This configuration ensures that ink does not leak from the ink cartridge 100 when it is removed from the image forming apparatus. Furthermore, this embodiment allows for miniaturization of the atmospheric communication section 303 and, consequently, the ink cartridge 100, compared to Embodiment 1. In this embodiment as well, it is preferable that the image forming apparatus be provided with a mechanism or engagement part that moves the lever 23 and the flow path member 321 together when the ink cartridge 100 is attached or detached.

[0036] <Example 4> Next, an embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 6(a) to 6(c). Figure 6(a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the atmospheric communication section 403 showing the state in which the atmospheric communication channel 411 and the filling port communication channel 413 are blocked. Figure 6(b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the atmospheric communication section 403 showing the state in which the atmospheric communication channel 411 and the atmospheric communication chamber 415 are in communication. Figure 6(c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the atmospheric communication section 403 showing the state in which the filling port communication channel 413 and the ink filling port 433 are in communication.

[0037] Example 4 differs from Example 1 in that the flow channel member is configured to be rotatably movable. Hereinafter, components similar to those in Example 1 will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted. The characteristic features of Example 4 will be described below.

[0038] In this embodiment, the atmospheric communication section 403 is provided with an atmospheric communication channel 411 and a filling port communication channel 413 that open to the ink chamber 32, and an atmospheric communication port 431 and an ink filling port 433 that open to the outside of the ink cartridge 100. The atmospheric communication section 403 is also provided with an atmospheric communication chamber 415 through which the atmospheric communication port 431 opens, and a flow channel member 421 adjacent to the atmospheric communication chamber 415. When ink is not being refilled, the ink filling port 433 is closed by a plug 435. That is, the flow channel member 421, which is a rotating body, is configured like a three-way valve. When the rotating body rotates, the flow channel formed inside the rotating body communicates with the communication port that opens to the ink chamber 32, thereby directly connecting the ink chamber 32 to the atmospheric communication chamber 415 or the outside of the ink cartridge 100.

[0039] The flow channel member 421 is provided with a first flow channel 421a and a second flow channel 421b, and by rotating around a horizontal axis of rotation and changing its orientation, the flow channels are selectively connected to the ink chamber 32. In addition, the end face of the flow channel member 421 facing the atmospheric communication chamber 415 and the end face opposite to it are provided with an inwardly recessed recess 421c. The recess 421c is exposed on the surface of the ink cartridge 100, and the flow channel member 421 can rotate by fitting a jig or the like into the recess 421c. In other words, in this embodiment, the recess 421c functions as an operating part for operating the flow channel member 421.

[0040] Figure 6(a) shows the state of the atmospheric communication section 403 where the flow channel member 421 is in the first position and the atmospheric communication channel 411 and the filling port communication channel 413 are blocked by the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member 421. When ink is not supplied or filled, such as before the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the image forming apparatus, the flow channel member 421 is in the first position, which blocks the atmospheric communication channel 411 and the filling port communication channel 413, preventing ink leakage.

[0041] Figure 6(b) shows the state of the atmospheric communication section 403 in which the flow channel member 421 is in the second position and the atmospheric communication channel 411, which serves as the first communication channel, and the atmospheric communication chamber 415 are in communication via the first flow channel 421a. By rotating the flow channel member 421 from the first position by 180°, the flow channel member 421 moves to the second position. One end of the first flow channel 421a extends to the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member 421, and the other end extends to the end face of the flow channel member 421 on the atmospheric communication chamber 415 side. When the flow channel member 421 is in the second position, the first flow channel 421a opens to the atmospheric communication channel 411, and the atmospheric communication channel 411 and the atmospheric communication chamber 415 are in communication. At this time, the ink chamber 32 communicates with the outside of the ink cartridge 100 via the atmospheric communication channel 411, the first channel 421a, and the atmospheric communication chamber 415, enabling the supply of ink from the ink cartridge 100 to the image forming apparatus.

[0042] Figure 6(c) shows the state of the air communication section 403 where the flow channel member 421 is in the third position, and the filling port communication channel 413, which serves as the second communication channel, and the ink filling port 433 are in communication via the second flow channel 421b. By rotating the flow channel member 421 from the first or second position by 90°, the flow channel member 421 moves to the third position. Both ends of the second flow channel 421b extend to the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member 421. When the flow channel member 421 is in the third position, the second flow channel 421b opens to the filling port communication channel 413 and the ink filling port 433, and the filling port communication channel 413 and the ink filling port 433 are in communication. At this time, ink can be refilled into the ink chamber 32 via the ink filling port 433, the second flow channel 421b, and the filling port communication channel 413.

[0043] This configuration ensures that ink does not leak from the ink cartridge 100 when it is removed from the image forming apparatus. Furthermore, when refilling the ink, the ink can be filled into the ink chamber 32 without passing through the atmospheric communication chamber 415 or the first flow path 421a, thus preventing contamination of the atmospheric communication chamber 415 and other parts. In addition, the provision of an ink filling port 433 with a larger diameter, separate from the atmospheric communication port 431, improves the efficiency of cleaning the inside of the ink cartridge 100 and refilling the ink when reusing the ink cartridge.

[0044] In other words, the present invention is applicable not only when the flow channel member moves in a straight line, but also when it moves in a rotational manner. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since the flow channel member 421 does not move in a straight line, the size of the atmospheric communication section 403 and, consequently, the size of the ink cartridge 100 can be reduced compared to Embodiments 2 and 3. In this embodiment as well, it is preferable that the image forming apparatus be provided with a mechanism to rotate the flow channel member 421 when the ink cartridge 100 is attached or detached. In addition, to improve ink sealing performance, a sealing member such as an O-ring may be provided on the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member 421, to the extent that it does not hinder rotational movement.

[0045] <Example 5> Next, Embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 7(a) and 7(b). Figure 7(a) is a top view of the atmospheric communication section 503 according to Embodiment 5. Figure 7(b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the atmospheric communication section 503 showing the state in which the atmospheric communication passage 101 is blocked.

[0046] Example 5 differs from Example 4 in that only one flow path is provided within the flow path member. Components similar to those in Example 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. The distinctive features of Example 5 will be described below.

[0047] In the 5th embodiment, the flow channel member 521 provided in the atmospheric communication section 503 is provided with a flow channel 521a that can connect the atmospheric communication flow channel 411 and the atmospheric communication chamber 415. The flow channel 521a extends from the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member 521 to the end surface on the atmospheric communication chamber 415 side. As shown in Figure 7(a), when the flow channel member 521 is in the first position, the atmospheric communication flow channel 411 is blocked by the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member 521, preventing ink leakage.

[0048] As shown in Figure 7(b), when the flow channel member 521 is in the second position, one end of the flow channel 521a opens to the atmospheric communication chamber 415, and the other end opens to the atmospheric communication flow channel 411, so that the atmospheric communication chamber 415 and the atmospheric communication flow channel 411 are in communication. The ink chamber 32 is then in communication with the outside of the ink cartridge 100 via the atmospheric communication flow channel 411, the flow channel 521a, the atmospheric communication chamber 415, and the atmospheric communication port 431. The flow channel member 521 is configured to be rotatable by fitting a jig or the like into a recess 521b provided on the end face opposite to the end face where the flow channel 521a opens.

[0049] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to reliably prevent ink from leaking from the ink cartridge 100 when the ink cartridge 100 is removed from the image forming apparatus. Furthermore, the atmospheric communication section 503 is not provided with an ink refill port for refilling ink, and only the flow path 521a is formed inside the flow path member 521. Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared to Embodiment 4, it is possible to miniaturize the atmospheric communication section 503 and, consequently, the ink cartridge 100. In this embodiment as well, it is preferable that the image forming apparatus be provided with a mechanism for rotating the flow path member 421 when attaching or detaching the ink cartridge 100.

[0050] It should be noted that the configuration of the present invention is not limited to the configuration described above, and various modifications are possible as long as they do not lose identity with the invention embodied in the above-described embodiments. For example, the liquid supply device may be equipped with a mechanism in which a lever is attached as an operating part to a rotatable flow path member, and the flow path member is rotated by the lever.

[0051] This embodiment includes the following configuration (and method). (Composition 1) A liquid supply device that can be attached to and detached from an image forming apparatus, A container for holding liquid, A supply unit that supplies the liquid contained in the storage unit to the image forming apparatus, An air vent opening that opens to the outside of the liquid supply device, Equipped with, The system further comprises a flow channel member in which a connecting flow channel is formed inside, A liquid supply device characterized in that, by moving the flow path member, the connecting flow path of the flow path member can be switched between an open state in which the connecting flow path of the flow path member connects the housing and the atmospheric communication port, and a sealed state in which the connecting flow path does not connect the housing and the atmospheric communication port. (Configuration 2) A communication channel is formed between the housing portion and the connecting member. The liquid supply device according to configuration 1, characterized in that the flow channel member is provided so as to be able to move in a straight line between a first position in which the outer wall surface of the flow channel member closes the communication channel and a second position in which one end of the connecting channel opens to the communication channel. (Composition 3) A communication channel is formed between the housing portion and the connecting member. The liquid supply device according to configuration 1, characterized in that the flow channel member is provided so as to be rotatable between a first position in which the outer wall surface of the flow channel member closes the communication channel and a second position in which one end of the connecting channel opens to the communication channel. (Composition 4) If the aforementioned atmospheric communication port is referred to as the first atmospheric communication port, and the connecting channel connecting the housing and the first atmospheric communication port is referred to as the first channel, The aforementioned atmospheric communication port further includes a second atmospheric communication port that opens to the outside of the liquid supply device, The liquid supply device according to configuration 1, characterized in that a second flow path connecting the second atmospheric communication port and the housing portion is formed inside the flow path member. (Composition 5) A communication channel is formed between the housing portion and the connecting member. The liquid supply device according to configuration 4, characterized in that the flow channel member is provided so as to be able to move in a straight line between a first position in which the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member closes the communication channel, a second position in which one end of the first channel opens to the communication channel, and a third position in which one end of the second channel opens to the communication channel. (Composition 6) A first communication channel and a second communication channel are formed between the housing section and the connecting member. The liquid supply device according to configuration 4, characterized in that the flow channel member is provided so as to be rotatable between a first position in which the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member blocks the first communication channel and the second communication channel, a second position in which one end of the first channel opens into the first communication channel, and a third position in which one end of the second channel opens into the second communication channel. (Composition 7) The liquid supply device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, characterized in that at least a portion of the flow path member is exposed to the outside of the liquid supply device and has an operating part for moving the flow path member. (Composition 8) The liquid supply device according to configuration 7, characterized in that the operating part is a lever that protrudes in part from the outside of the liquid supply device, is connected to the flow path member, and moves integrally with the flow path member. (Composition 9) The liquid supply device according to configuration 7, characterized in that the operating section is a recessed area that is inwardly recessed. (Composition 10) The liquid supply device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that the flow channel member is a cylindrical member with a sealing member provided on its outer circumferential surface. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0052] 21...Flow channel member, 21a...Connecting flow channel, 32...Housing section, 34...Supply section, 96...Atmospheric communication port, 100...Liquid supply device, 103...Atmospheric communication section

Claims

1. A cartridge that can be attached to and detached from an image forming apparatus, A container for holding liquid, A supply unit that supplies the liquid contained in the storage unit to the image forming apparatus, An atmospheric vent opening that opens to the outside of the cartridge, Equipped with, The system further comprises a flow channel member in which a connecting flow channel is formed inside, By moving the flow channel member, it is possible to switch between an open state in which the connecting flow channel of the flow channel member connects the housing and the atmospheric communication port, and a sealed state in which the connecting flow channel does not connect the housing and the atmospheric communication port. A communication channel is formed between the housing portion and the flow channel member. The cartridge is characterized in that the flow channel member is provided so as to be rotatable between a first position in which the outer wall surface of the flow channel member closes the communication channel and a second position in which one end of the connecting channel opens to the communication channel.

2. A cartridge that can be attached to and detached from an image forming apparatus, A container for holding liquid, A supply unit that supplies the liquid contained in the storage unit to the image forming apparatus, An atmospheric vent opening that opens to the outside of the cartridge, Equipped with, The system further comprises a flow channel member in which a connecting flow channel is formed inside, By moving the flow channel member, it is possible to switch between an open state in which the connecting flow channel of the flow channel member connects the housing and the atmospheric communication port, and a sealed state in which the connecting flow channel does not connect the housing and the atmospheric communication port. If the aforementioned atmospheric communication port is referred to as the first atmospheric communication port, and the connecting channel connecting the housing section and the first atmospheric communication port is referred to as the first channel, The aforementioned atmospheric communication port further includes a second atmospheric communication port that opens to the outside of the cartridge, A cartridge characterized in that a second flow path is formed inside the flow path member, connecting the second atmospheric communication port and the housing section.

3. A cartridge that can be attached to and detached from an image forming apparatus, A container for holding liquid, A supply unit that supplies the liquid contained in the storage unit to the image forming apparatus, An atmospheric vent opening that opens to the outside of the cartridge, Equipped with, The system further comprises a flow channel member in which a connecting flow channel is formed inside, By moving the flow channel member, it is possible to switch between an open state in which the connecting flow channel of the flow channel member connects the housing and the atmospheric communication port, and a sealed state in which the connecting flow channel does not connect the housing and the atmospheric communication port. The flow path member has at least a portion exposed to the outside of the cartridge and has an operating part for moving the flow path member. The cartridge is characterized in that the operating part is a lever that protrudes in part from the outside of the cartridge and is connected to the flow path member and moves integrally with the flow path member.

4. A cartridge that can be attached to and detached from an image forming apparatus, A container for holding liquid, A supply unit that supplies the liquid contained in the storage unit to the image forming apparatus, An atmospheric vent opening that opens to the outside of the cartridge, Equipped with, The system further comprises a flow channel member in which a connecting flow channel is formed inside, By moving the flow channel member, it is possible to switch between an open state in which the connecting flow channel of the flow channel member connects the housing and the atmospheric communication port, and a sealed state in which the connecting flow channel does not connect the housing and the atmospheric communication port. The flow path member has at least a portion exposed to the outside of the cartridge and has an operating part for moving the flow path member. The cartridge is characterized in that the operating section is a recessed area that is inwardly recessed.

5. A communication channel is formed between the housing portion and the flow channel member. The cartridge according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the flow channel member is provided so as to be able to move in a straight line between a first position in which the outer wall surface of the flow channel member closes the communication channel and a second position in which one end of the connecting channel opens to the communication channel.

6. A communication channel is formed between the housing portion and the flow channel member. The cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that the flow channel member is provided so as to be able to move in a straight line between a first position in which the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member closes the communication channel, a second position in which one end of the first channel opens to the communication channel, and a third position in which one end of the second channel opens to the communication channel.

7. A first communication channel and a second communication channel are formed between the housing section and the flow channel member. The cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that the flow channel member is provided so as to be rotatable between a first position in which the outer circumferential surface of the flow channel member blocks the first communication channel and the second communication channel, a second position in which one end of the first communication channel opens into the first communication channel, and a third position in which one end of the second communication channel opens into the second communication channel.

8. The cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least a portion of the flow path member is exposed to the outside of the cartridge and has an operating part for moving the flow path member.

9. The aforementioned flow channel member is characterized by being a cylindrical member with a sealing member provided on its outer surface. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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