Head chip, liquid jet head, and liquid jet recording device

Abstract

A head chip according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: a nozzle plate in which a nozzle hole for jetting liquid is formed; an actuator chip which is provided on one surface side of the nozzle plate and in which a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle hole is formed to open in a first direction along the one surface of the nozzle plate; a flow path member which is provided outside the actuator chip in the first direction on the one surface side of the nozzle plate and in which a space opening in a direction intersecting the one surface and / or a direction along the one surface is formed; and a sealing member which includes a damper part having flexibility in at least a part thereof and covering the space when viewed from the direction intersecting the one surface and / or the direction along the one surface, and which extends from the flow path member to the actuator chip.

Description

Head Chip, Liquid Jet Head, and Liquid Jet Recording Apparatus

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a head chip, a liquid jet head, and a liquid jet recording apparatus. The present disclosure claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-162054 filed in Japan on September 19, 2024, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a structure that is a laminated structure in which a flow path substrate, an electrode substrate provided below the flow path substrate, and a nozzle plate provided above the flow path substrate are stacked and joined. The flow path substrate is formed with a discharge chamber communicating with a nozzle, a diaphragm forming a wall surface at the bottom of the discharge chamber, a recess forming a partition wall separating each discharge chamber, a recess forming a common liquid chamber, and the like.

[0003] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-114315

[0004] However, when the alignment accuracy in the height direction of each member constituting the laminated structure is low, liquid leaks from the gaps between the members. When the designed shape of each member is changed, it becomes difficult to flexibly respond to the sealing structure. When each member is made of a different material, assembly becomes difficult. Since the accuracy required for manufacturing the members in the height direction is high, it is difficult to prepare the assembled members. Therefore, it is desired that the degree of freedom in product design increases and cost reduction is possible.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above problems, and aims to increase the degree of freedom in product design and enable cost reduction.

[0006] (1) A head tip according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a nozzle plate having nozzle holes for spraying liquid; an actuator tip provided on one side of the nozzle plate, having a pressure chamber that is open to the nozzle holes in a first direction along the one side of the nozzle plate; a flow path member provided on the one side of the nozzle plate, outside the actuator tip in the first direction, having a space that opens in a direction intersecting the one side and / or along the one side; and a sealing member extending from the flow path member to the actuator tip, including a damper portion that is at least partially flexible and covers the space when viewed from the direction intersecting the one side and / or along the one side.

[0007] According to the head chip of this embodiment, even if the alignment accuracy of the actuator chip and the flow channel member in the height direction (the direction intersecting one surface of the nozzle plate) is low, the sealing member can seal the space in the flow channel member and the gap between the actuator chip and the flow channel member to prevent liquid leakage. Even if the design shape of the actuator chip or flow channel member is changed, the sealing structure can be flexibly adapted. Since machining is not required when assembling the head chip, assembly is possible even if the actuator chip and flow channel member are made of different materials, expanding the range of material selection. Since the accuracy required for manufacturing the members in the height direction is lower, the preparation of assembly members becomes simpler. Therefore, it is possible to provide a head chip that offers greater freedom in product design and reduces costs.

[0008] (2) In the head tip according to the embodiment of (1), the flow channel member is formed with a first common liquid chamber that leads to the first side of the pressure chamber in the first direction and a second common liquid chamber that leads to the second side of the pressure chamber opposite to the first side in the first direction, and the sealing member may extend in the first direction so as to close the first common liquid chamber and the second common liquid chamber.

[0009] With this configuration, even if the alignment accuracy of the actuator tip and the flow channel member in the first direction is low, the sealing member can seal the gap between the actuator tip and the flow channel member to prevent liquid leakage.

[0010] (3) In the head chip according to the embodiment of (1) or (2), the actuator chip is formed in a shape that extends along one surface and in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the flow channel member is formed in a frame shape that surrounds the actuator chip when viewed from the direction intersecting the one surface, and the sealing member may extend across the actuator chip and the flow channel member in the second direction.

[0011] With this configuration, even if the alignment accuracy of the actuator tip and the flow channel member in the second direction is low, the sealing member can seal the gap between the actuator tip and the flow channel member to prevent liquid leakage.

[0012] (4) In a head tip according to any of the embodiments of (1) to (3), the flow channel member has a first common liquid chamber that leads to the first side of the pressure chamber in the first direction and a second common liquid chamber that leads to the second side of the pressure chamber opposite to the first side in the first direction, and the flow channel member comprises a first wall portion that forms the first common liquid chamber and a second wall portion that forms the second common liquid chamber, and the actuator tip may be in contact with either the first wall portion or the second wall portion.

[0013] This configuration allows the position of the flow path member to be fixed by contact with the actuator tip, thereby reducing the burden of assembling the head tip.

[0014] (5) In a head chip according to any of the embodiments of (1) to (4), the flow channel member is formed in the shape of a rectangular frame that surrounds the actuator chip when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface, and the sealing member may extend from at least one of the four sides along the outer circumference of the flow channel member to the actuator chip when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface.

[0015] This configuration simplifies the structure of the flow channel members, thus reducing the manufacturing cost of the flow channel members. Compared to conventional structures, the damper portion can be formed more widely in the sealing member, thus increasing the effectiveness of the damper portion.

[0016] (6) In any of the head chips according to (1) to (5), the flow channel member may be formed to be larger than the actuator chip in a direction intersecting the one surface.

[0017] This configuration allows for a wider cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path compared to cases where the flow path member is formed to be smaller than or equal to the actuator tip. As a result, the pressure within the flow path can be kept uniform, reducing the pressure difference between pressure chambers and suppressing variations in liquid injection. Furthermore, because the amount of liquid supplied from the flow path to the pressure chamber is stable, stable discharge is possible even when the amount of liquid being injected increases.

[0018] (7) In any of the head chip embodiments of (1) to (5), the flow channel member may be formed to be the same size as the actuator chip in a direction intersecting the one surface.

[0019] With this configuration, compared to the case where the flow channel member is formed to a different size from the actuator tip, it becomes easier to seal the space of the flow channel member and the gap between the actuator tip and the flow channel member with the sealing member.

[0020] (8) In any of the head chip embodiments of (1) to (7), the flow channel member may include a roof portion that extends from the portion forming the space and covers the actuator chip when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface.

[0021] With this configuration, the actuator tip is covered by the roof section, making it easier to seal the gap between the actuator tip and the flow path member with a sealing member. For example, if adhesive or rubber material is used as the sealing member, it is also possible to seal the gap between the actuator tip and each roof section, thereby enhancing the sealing effect.

[0022] (9) In any of the head tips according to (1) to (8), the flow channel member may be integrally formed from the same material as the nozzle plate.

[0023] This configuration eliminates the need to bond the flow channel component to the nozzle plate, thus reducing the burden of head tip assembly. For example, if the flow channel component and nozzle plate are made of different materials, there is a high possibility of warping due to differences in expansion rates during temperature changes. In contrast, this configuration suppresses warping during temperature changes, thus reducing the burden of head tip assembly.

[0024] (10) In a head tip according to any of the embodiments of (1) to (9), the nozzle holes are arranged in a plurality in a second direction that is along the surface and intersects the first direction, and when the plurality of nozzle holes are made up of a nozzle row, the nozzle row is provided in a plurality of rows spaced apart in the first direction, and the actuator tips may be provided in a plurality of rows spaced apart in the first direction such that the pressure chambers are connected to each of the nozzle holes.

[0025] This configuration allows for multiple rows of nozzles in the first direction, which contributes to improved resolution.

[0026] (11) In the head chip according to the embodiment of (10), the plurality of actuator chips include a first actuator chip having a first pressure chamber formed therein, and a second actuator chip positioned adjacent to the first actuator chip in the first direction and having a second pressure chamber formed therein, wherein the first pressure chamber side and the second pressure chamber side are in contact with each other in the first direction, and the damper portion may extend across the first actuator chip and the second actuator chip in the first direction.

[0027] This configuration simplifies the structure of the flow channel components, thus reducing the manufacturing cost of the flow channel components. Compared to conventional structures, a wider damper section can be formed, increasing the effectiveness of the damper section.

[0028] (12) In the head chip according to the embodiment of (10), the plurality of actuator chips include a first actuator chip having a first pressure chamber formed therein, and a second actuator chip positioned adjacent to the first actuator chip in the first direction and having a second pressure chamber formed therein, and the flow path member may include a partition wall that separates the first pressure chamber side from the second pressure chamber side in the first direction.

[0029] With this configuration, the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber are separated by a partition wall, thereby suppressing so-called crosstalk, where pressure fluctuations in the first pressure chamber are propagated to the second pressure chamber.

[0030] (13) In any of the head chip embodiments of (1) to (12), the flow channel member has a recess formed therein that opens outward from the outer edge of the actuator chip when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface, and the sealing member may cover the recess when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface.

[0031] With this configuration, when the sealing member seals the gap between the actuator tip and the flow channel member, the air around the actuator tip can be released outward through the recess, thus contributing to improved sealing performance and durability.

[0032] In the head chip according to the embodiment of (14)(13), the actuator chip is formed in a shape that extends along one surface and intersects the first direction in a second direction, the recesses are formed in a plurality so as to communicate outward from both ends of the actuator chip in the second direction, and the sealing member may extend so as to straddle both ends of the actuator chip and the recesses in the second direction.

[0033] With this configuration, when sealing the gap between the actuator tip and the flow path member with the sealing member, air can be released outward from both ends of the actuator tip along the second direction through the recess, thus enabling smoother sealing.

[0034] (15) In the head chip according to the embodiment of (14), the plurality of recesses include a first recess extending outward from one end of the actuator chip in the second direction and a second recess extending outward from the other end of the actuator chip in the second direction, wherein at least one of the first recess and the second recess may have an inclined edge that extends inward in the first direction when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface.

[0035] With this configuration, the dimensions of the flow channel member in the first direction (or second direction) can be reduced compared to cases where the first recess and the second recess each extend in the second direction when viewed from a direction intersecting the surface, or where they extend inclined toward both outward directions in the first direction, making it easier to miniaturize the head tip.

[0036] In the head tip according to the embodiment of (16)(15), the flow channel member is provided with a first common liquid chamber that leads to the first side of the pressure chamber in the first direction, and a second common liquid chamber that leads to the second side of the pressure chamber opposite to the first side in the first direction, and the flow channel member is provided with an inlet port for supplying liquid to the first common liquid chamber and an outlet port for discharging liquid from the second common liquid chamber, and at least one of the inlet port and the outlet port may be positioned adjacent to the inner inclined edge when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface.

[0037] With this configuration, compared to the case where each of the first recess and the second recess extends inclined outward in the first direction when viewed from a direction intersecting the surface, at least one of the inlet port and the outlet port can be positioned inward in the first direction, making it easier to miniaturize the head chip.

[0038] In the head tip according to embodiment (17), (15), or (16), at least one of the first recess and the second recess has an outward-sloping edge that extends inclined outward in the first direction when viewed from a direction intersecting the surface, and the flow channel member may have a notch formed on the outside of the outward-sloping edge when viewed from a direction intersecting the surface.

[0039] According to this configuration, since the forming material of the flow path member can be reduced at the notch, it contributes to cost reduction and weight reduction.

[0040] (18) In the head chip of any one of the aspects (1) to (17), the sealing member may be joined to the actuator chip by an adhesive or welding.

[0041] (19) A liquid ejection head according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a head chip of any one of the aspects (1) to (18).

[0042] According to the liquid ejection head of this aspect, a liquid ejection head with increased freedom in product design can be obtained.

[0043] (20) A liquid ejection recording apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the liquid ejection head of the aspect (19).

[0044] According to the liquid ejection recording apparatus of this aspect, a liquid ejection recording apparatus with increased freedom in product design can be obtained.

[0045] This is a schematic diagram of the inkjet printer according to the first embodiment. This is a schematic configuration of the inkjet head and ink circulation mechanism according to the first embodiment. This is a plan view of the head chip according to the first embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the IV-IV line in Figure 3. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the V-V line in Figure 3. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the YZ plane according to the first modified example of the first embodiment. This is a plan view of the head chip according to the second modified example of the first embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the YZ plane according to the third modified example of the first embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the YZ plane according to the fourth modified example of the first embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the YZ plane according to the fifth modified example of the first embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the YZ plane according to the sixth modified example of the first embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the YZ plane according to the seventh modified example of the first embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the YZ plane according to the eighth modified example of the first embodiment. This is a plan view of the head chip according to the second embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the YZ plane according to the third embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the XZ plane according to the third embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the YZ plane according to the fourth embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head chip corresponding to the XZ plane according to the fourth embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head tip according to the fifth embodiment, corresponding to the YZ plane. This is a plan view of the head tip according to the sixth embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view of the head tip corresponding to the line XXI-XXI in Figure 20. This is a cross-sectional view of the head tip according to the first modified example of the sixth embodiment, corresponding to the YZ plane. This is a cross-sectional view of the head tip according to the second modified example of the sixth embodiment, corresponding to the YZ plane. This is a plan view of the head tip according to the seventh embodiment. This is a plan view of the head tip according to the eighth embodiment.

[0046] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments and modifications described below, corresponding configurations may be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof may be omitted. In the following description, expressions indicating relative or absolute arrangements such as "parallel", "orthogonal", "center", "coaxial", etc. not only strictly represent such arrangements, but also represent states in which they are relatively displaced with tolerances and angles or distances that can obtain the same function.

[0047] In the following embodiments, as an example of a liquid ejection recording apparatus including the liquid ejection head of the present disclosure, an inkjet printer (hereinafter simply referred to as "printer") that performs recording on a recording medium using ink (liquid) will be described as an example. In the drawings used in the following description, the scale of each member is appropriately changed in order to make each member recognizable in size.

[0048] <First Embodiment> <Printer> FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a printer 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the printer 1 of the present embodiment includes a pair of transport mechanisms 2 and 3, an ink tank 4, an inkjet head 5 (liquid ejection head), an ink circulation mechanism 6, and a scanning mechanism 7.

[0049] In the following description, the orthogonal coordinate system of X, Y, and Z will be used for explanation as necessary. The X direction coincides with the transport direction (sub-scanning direction) of the recording medium P (for example, paper or the like). The Y direction coincides with the scanning direction (main scanning direction) of the scanning mechanism 7. The Z direction indicates the height direction (gravity direction) orthogonal to the X direction and the Y direction. In the following description, among the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction, the side of the arrow in the figure is taken as the plus (+) side, and the side opposite to the arrow is taken as the minus (-) side for explanation. In this specification, the +Z side corresponds to above the gravity direction, and the -Z side corresponds to below the gravity direction.

[0050] The transport mechanisms 2 and 3 transport the recording medium P to the +X side. Each of the transport mechanisms 2 and 3 includes, for example, a pair of rollers 11 and 12 extending in the Y direction. The ink tank 4 contains, for example, four colors of ink separately: yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. Each inkjet head 5 is configured to eject the four colors of ink (yellow, magenta, cyan, and black) according to the connected ink tank 4.

[0051] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the inkjet head 5 and the ink circulation mechanism 6. Referring to Figure 2, the ink circulation mechanism 6 circulates ink between the ink tank 4 and the inkjet head 5. The ink circulation mechanism 6 comprises a circulation channel 23 having an ink supply pipe 21 and an ink discharge pipe 22, a pressure pump 24 connected to the ink supply pipe 21, and a suction pump 25 connected to the ink discharge pipe 22.

[0052] The pressurizing pump 24 pressurizes the ink supply pipe 21 and sends ink to the inkjet head 5 through the ink supply pipe 21. As a result, the ink supply pipe 21 side is under positive pressure relative to the inkjet head 5.

[0053] The suction pump 25 reduces the pressure inside the ink discharge pipe 22 and draws ink from the inkjet head 5 through the ink discharge pipe 22. As a result, there is negative pressure on the ink discharge pipe 22 side relative to the inkjet head 5. The ink can be circulated between the inkjet head 5 and the ink tank 4 through the circulation channel 23 by the drive of the pressurizing pump 24 and the suction pump 25.

[0054] As shown in Figure 1, the scanning mechanism 7 causes the inkjet head 5 to reciprocate in the Y direction. The scanning mechanism 7 includes a guide rail 28 extending in the Y direction and a carriage 29 movably supported on the guide rail 28.

[0055] <Inkjet Head> The inkjet head 5 is mounted on a carriage 29. In the illustrated example, multiple inkjet heads 5 are mounted in a row in the Y direction on a single carriage 29. The inkjet head 5 includes a head chip 30 (see Figure 2), an ink supply unit (not shown) connecting the ink circulation mechanism 6 and the head chip 30, and a control unit (not shown) that applies a drive voltage to the head chip 30.

[0056] The inkjet head 5 of this embodiment is an electromechanical conversion type inkjet head that ejects ink from a head chip 30 which includes an actuator plate 40 formed from a piezoelectric element such as PZT (lead zirconate titanate).

[0057] In this inkjet head 5, to eject ink, a voltage is applied between the electrodes of the drive wall of the ejection channel 42 (pressure chamber) formed in the actuator plate 40, causing the drive wall to undergo thickness sliding deformation. As a result, the volume inside the ejection channel 42 changes, and the ink inside the ejection channel 42 is ejected through the nozzle hole 31a. Note that the ink ejection method is not limited to the electromechanical conversion method described above, but may also be a charge control method, a pressurized vibration method, an electrothermal conversion method, an electrostatic attraction method, etc.

[0058] The electrostatic control method involves applying an electric charge to the material using a charging electrode and controlling the direction of the material's flight with a deflection electrode to discharge it from the nozzle. The pressurized vibration method, on the other hand, applies ultra-high pressure to the material to discharge it towards the nozzle tip. If no control voltage is applied, the material travels in a straight line and is discharged from the nozzle. When a control voltage is applied, electrostatic repulsion occurs between the material particles, causing them to scatter and not be discharged from the nozzle.

[0059] Furthermore, the electrothermal conversion method involves rapidly vaporizing the material using a heater placed within the space where the material is stored, generating bubbles, and then using the pressure of these bubbles to discharge the material from the space. The electrostatic attraction method involves applying a small amount of pressure to the space where the material is stored, forming a meniscus of material in the nozzle, and then applying electrostatic attraction to draw out the material. In addition, other technologies such as methods that utilize changes in fluid viscosity due to an electric field, and methods that use discharge sparks to propel the material can also be applied.

[0060] <Head Tip> Figure 3 is a plan view of the head tip 30 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 30 corresponding to the line IV-IV in Figure 3. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 30 corresponding to the line V-V in Figure 3. Referring to Figures 3 to 5 together, the head tip 30 is a so-called circulating side-chute type head tip that circulates ink with the ink tank 4 and discharges ink from the central part in the extending direction (Y direction) of the discharge channel 42. The head tip 30 comprises a nozzle plate 31, an actuator tip 32, a flow path member 33, and a sealing member 34. Note that the sealing member 34 is not shown in Figure 3.

[0061] <Nozzle Plate> The nozzle plate 31 is formed of, for example, a resin material (polyimide, etc.). The nozzle plate 31 may also be made of a single-layer structure or a laminated structure of a metal material (SUS, Ni-Pd, etc.), a resin material (polyimide, etc.), glass, silicon, etc. The form of the nozzle plate 31 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0062] The nozzle plate 31 has nozzle holes 31a formed therein for ejecting ink. Multiple nozzle holes 31a are formed, penetrating the nozzle plate 31 in the Z direction. The nozzle holes 31a may be formed in a tapered shape, for example, with the inner diameter gradually decreasing from top to bottom. The multiple nozzle holes 31a are spaced apart in the X direction. Each nozzle hole 31a communicates separately with a corresponding discharge channel 42. The upper end opening of each nozzle hole 31a may open, for example, in the center of the discharge channel 42 in the Y direction.

[0063] The nozzle plate 31 covers the lower surface of the actuator plate 40 and the lower surface of the flow path member 33 together. The nozzle plate 31 is joined to the lower surface of the actuator plate 40 and the lower surface of the flow path member 33 via adhesive or the like. The nozzle plate 31 covers the lower end openings of the first common liquid chamber 61 and the second common liquid chamber 62, and the lower end openings of the channels 42 and 43 together.

[0064] <Actuator Tip> The actuator tip 32 is provided on the +Z plane side (one side) of the nozzle plate 31. The actuator tip 32 includes an actuator plate 40 made of piezoelectric material. The actuator tip 32 is formed with a discharge channel 42 (pressure chamber) leading to the nozzle hole 31a opening in the Y direction (first direction) along the +Z plane (one side) of the nozzle plate 31.

[0065] The actuator tip 32 is formed in a shape that follows the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 31 and extends in the X direction (a second direction intersecting the first direction). The actuator tip 32 is formed in a block shape with the Z direction as the thickness direction and the X direction as the longitudinal direction.

[0066] The actuator tip 32 has a thickness in the Z direction that is thinner than the flow channel member 33, and its plan view shape is smaller than the inner edge of the rectangular frame-shaped flow channel member 33. The actuator tip 32 is spaced apart from the flow channel member 33. The +X side end face of the actuator tip 32 may be spaced apart from the inner surface of the flow channel member 33 that faces the -X side. The -X side end face of the actuator tip 32 may be spaced apart from the inner surface of the flow channel member 33 that faces the +X side. The +Y side end face of the actuator tip 32 may be spaced apart from the inner surface of the flow channel member 33 that faces the -Y side. The -Y side end face of the actuator tip 32 may be spaced apart from the inner surface of the flow channel member 33 that faces the +Y side. Within the flow channel member 33, the first common liquid chamber 61 and the second common liquid chamber 62 are separated by the actuator tip 32.

[0067] The actuator chip 32 comprises an actuator plate 40 and a cover plate 50.

[0068] The actuator plate 40 is made of a piezoelectric material such as PZT (lead zirconate titanate). The actuator plate 40 is a so-called chevron substrate, which is made by laminating two piezoelectric plates with different polarization directions in the Z direction. Alternatively, the actuator plate 40 may be a so-called monopole substrate, in which the polarization direction is unidirectional throughout the entire Z direction.

[0069] The actuator plate 40 has a channel row 41 formed therein. The channel row 41 has an ejection channel 42 (pressure chamber) into which ink is filled, and a non-ejection channel 43 into which ink is not filled. The channels 42 and 43 are arranged alternately on the actuator plate 40 with spacing in the X direction.

[0070] The discharge channel 42 penetrates the actuator plate 40 in the Z direction and extends linearly in the Y direction along the entire length of the actuator plate 40. The +Y side opening of each discharge channel 42 communicates with the first common liquid chamber 61. The -Y side opening of each discharge channel 42 communicates with the second common liquid chamber 62. The first common liquid chamber 61 and the second common liquid chamber 62 communicate through each discharge channel 42.

[0071] The non-discharge channel 43 extends linearly in the Y direction in the portion of the actuator plate 40 located between adjacent discharge channels 42. The portions of the actuator plate 40 located between adjacent discharge channels 42 and non-discharge channels 43 each constitute a drive wall 44 facing the discharge channel 42. Channels 42 and 43 are surrounded on both sides in the X direction by a pair of drive walls 44.

[0072] The Y-direction ends of the non-discharge channel 43 terminate within the actuator plate 40. The non-discharge channel 43 does not communicate with the first common liquid chamber 61 and the second common liquid chamber 62. The non-discharge channel 43 is formed in a convex arc shape that is downward when viewed from the X-direction. The Y-direction dimension of the non-discharge channel 43 gradually decreases from top to bottom. Although not shown in the figures, the actuator plate 40 has common wiring and individual wiring formed therein as drive wiring. Note that in Figures 3 and 4, the electrodes 45 that constitute the drive wiring are shown in a simplified manner.

[0073] The cover plate 50 is a component for connecting the actuator chip 32 and the flexible printed circuit board (external wiring). The cover plate 50 is a plate material made of, for example, a resin material (e.g., PI, PE, PET, PP, PPS, PC, PEEK, etc.). The Z-direction dimension of the cover plate 50 may be smaller than that of the actuator plate 40.

[0074] In addition to resin materials, the cover plate 50 may also be made of piezoelectric materials such as PZT, glass, silicon, or other non-conductive materials. Furthermore, the cover plate 50 may be made by coating the outer surface of a non-conductive material with a conductive material such as a metal material as the base.

[0075] The cover plate 50 has the same external shape as the actuator plate 40 when viewed from above. The cover plate 50 is superimposed on the entire upper surface of the actuator plate 40. The cover plate 50 is bonded to the upper surface of the actuator plate 40 with an adhesive or the like.

[0076] <Flow channel member> The flow channel member 33 is provided on the +Z side of the nozzle plate 31, outside the actuator tip 32 in the Y direction. The flow channel member 33 has a space 65 that opens in the Z direction (a direction intersecting one surface of the nozzle plate). The flow channel member 33 has a first common liquid chamber 61 that leads to the +Y side (first side in the first direction) of the discharge channel 42, and a second common liquid chamber 62 that leads to the -Y side (second side opposite to the first side in the first direction) of the discharge channel 42.

[0077] The flow channel member 33 is formed of, for example, a metal material (such as SUS or Ni-Pd). In addition to metal materials, the flow channel member 33 may also be a single-layer or laminated structure made of resin materials (such as PI, PE, PET, PP, PPS, PC, PEEK, etc.), glass, silicon, etc. The form of the flow channel member 33 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0078] The flow path member 33 includes an outer wall portion 66 that forms the outer shape of the flow path member 33 in a plan view, and an inner wall portion 67 that is positioned inside the outer wall portion 66 and has an inclined surface 67a that slopes inward in the Y direction and toward the -Z side. Each of the first common liquid chamber 61 and the second common liquid chamber 62 is demarcated by the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 31, the Y-direction inner surface of the outer wall portion 66 of the flow path member 33 (the inner surface in the first direction), the -Z plane of the inner wall portion 67 of the flow path member 33, and the Y-direction outer surface of the actuator tip 32 (the outer surface in the first direction). The flow path member 33 is formed in a frame shape so as to surround the actuator tip 32 when viewed from the Z direction (the direction intersecting one surface of the nozzle plate). The flow path member 33 is formed in a rectangular frame shape so as to surround the actuator tip 32 when viewed from the Z direction.

[0079] The flow channel member 33 is formed in the shape of a rectangular frame with the Z direction as the thickness direction and the X direction as the longitudinal direction. The flow channel member 33 separates the chip housing section 63, the first common liquid chamber 61, and the second common liquid chamber 62. The chip housing section 63, the first common liquid chamber 61, and the second common liquid chamber 62 are in communication with each other and penetrate the flow channel member 33 in the Z direction.

[0080] The chip housing portion 63 is formed in the center of the flow channel member 33 in the Y direction. In a plan view, the chip housing portion 63 is formed as an elongated hole with the X direction as its longitudinal direction. In a plan view, the chip housing portion 63 may be formed to be larger than the outer shape of the actuator chip 32.

[0081] The first common liquid chamber 61 is formed in the portion of the flow channel member 33 located on the +Y side relative to the chip housing portion 63. The first common liquid chamber 61 is formed in the same way as the chip housing portion 63, with the X direction as its longitudinal direction. The +X side end of the first common liquid chamber 61 may protrude in the X direction relative to the chip housing portion 63.

[0082] The second common liquid chamber 62 is formed in the portion of the flow path member 33 located on the -Y side with respect to the chip housing portion 63. The second common liquid chamber 62 is formed in the same way as the first common liquid chamber 61, with the X direction as its longitudinal direction. The -X side end of the second common liquid chamber 62 may protrude in the X direction relative to the chip housing portion 63.

[0083] The flow path member 33 comprises a first wall portion 81 forming a first common liquid chamber 61 and a second wall portion 82 forming a second common liquid chamber 62. Each of the first wall portion 81 and the second wall portion 82 extends in the X direction in a plan view. The flow path member 33 further comprises a third wall portion 83 extending in the Y direction to connect the +X side ends of each of the first wall portion 81 and the second wall portion 82, and a fourth wall portion 84 extending in the Y direction to connect the -X side ends of each of the first wall portion 81 and the second wall portion 82. The actuator tip 32 is spaced apart from each of the first wall portion 81, the second wall portion 82, the third wall portion 83, and the fourth wall portion 84. The actuator tip 32 is not covered by the flow path member 33 when viewed from the Z direction.

[0084] Space 65 extends continuously in the X direction when viewed from the Z direction. Space 65 is formed as an elongated slit with the X direction as its longitudinal direction when viewed from the Z direction. Space 65 corresponding to the first common liquid chamber 61 when viewed from the Z direction is formed as an elongated slit with the X direction as its longitudinal direction, similar to the first common liquid chamber 61. Space 65 corresponding to the second common liquid chamber 62 when viewed from the Z direction is formed as an elongated slit with the X direction as its longitudinal direction, similar to the second common liquid chamber 62.

[0085] In the example shown in Figure 3, the plan view shape of space 65 is a rectangle with the X direction as its longitudinal direction. However, the plan view shape of space 65 may be other shapes (for example, a polygon or a circle). The plan view shape of space 65 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0086] In the example shown in Figure 4, the space 65 is formed with a shape having a uniform opening area along the Z direction. However, the space 65 may be formed with a shape where the opening area differs in a part of the Z direction. The opening configuration of the space 65 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0087] The flow channel member 33 is formed to be larger than the actuator tip 32 in the Z direction. As shown in Figure 4, in the head tip 30 of this embodiment, in the Z direction, the height Z2 from the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 31 to the +Z plane of the flow channel member 33 is higher than the height Z1 from the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 31 to the +Z plane of the actuator tip 32 (Z2 > Z1).

[0088] Height Z1 corresponds to the height from the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 31 to the +Z plane of the cover plate 50. Height Z2 corresponds to the height from the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 31 to the +Z plane of the outer wall portion 66 of the flow path member 33. For example, height Z2 may be 0.01 mm or more higher than height Z1.

[0089] The flow channel member 33 is provided with an inlet port 71 and an outlet port 72. The inlet port 71 is located at the +Y and +X ends of the flow channel member 33. The inlet port 71 protrudes upward from the flow channel member 33. The inlet port 71 communicates with the first common liquid chamber 61 through the +X end of the first common liquid chamber 61 (the portion that protrudes relative to the chip housing 63). The ink flowing through the ink supply pipe 21 is supplied to the first common liquid chamber 61 through the inlet port 71.

[0090] The outlet port 72 is located at the -Y and -X ends of the flow path member 33. The outlet port 72 protrudes upward from the flow path member 33. The outlet port 72 communicates with the second common liquid chamber 62 through the -X end of the second common liquid chamber 62 (the portion that protrudes relative to the tip housing 63). The ink flowing through the second common liquid chamber 62 is discharged to the ink discharge pipe 22 through the outlet port 72.

[0091] <Sealing Member> The sealing member 34 is flexible in at least part of it. The sealing member 34 includes a damper portion 75 that covers the space 65 when viewed from the Z direction. The sealing member 34 extends from the flow path member 33 to the actuator tip 32. The sealing member 34 extends in the Y direction to close the first common liquid chamber 61 and the second common liquid chamber 62. The sealing member 34 extends in the X direction to straddle the actuator tip 32 and the flow path member 33. In the example of Figure 4, the sealing member 34 extends from the +Z plane of the outer wall portion 66 of the flow path member 33, the +Z plane of the inner wall portion 67 and the inclined surface 67a to the +Z plane of the outer circumference of the cover plate 50 of the actuator tip 32.

[0092] The sealing member 34 extends from at least one of the four sides along the outer circumference of the flow channel member 33, as viewed from the Z direction, to the actuator tip 32. In the examples of Figures 3 and 4, the sealing member 34 extends from each of the four sides along the outer circumference of the flow channel member 33, as viewed from the Z direction, to the actuator tip 32. The sealing member 34 may also be formed in a frame shape so as to cover the outer edge of the actuator tip 32 and the flow channel member 33, as viewed from the Z direction.

[0093] The sealing member 34 is formed of, for example, a film. In this case, the film is low-cost and flexible, so it can be applied to various head chip shapes. Examples of film materials include resin materials (e.g., PI, PE, PET, PP, PPS, PC, PEEK, etc.). However, the film material is not limited to the above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0094] The thickness of the sealing member 34 (film) is set to a range of, for example, 0.02 mm or more and 0.2 mm or less. In the example shown in the figure, the thickness of the sealing member 34 is approximately 0.05 mm. The thickness of the sealing member 34 can be changed according to the design specifications, as long as flexibility during sealing is maintained.

[0095] The sealing member 34 is joined to the actuator tip 32 and the flow path member 33 so as to close the space 65, the first common liquid chamber 61 and the second common liquid chamber 62. The sealing member 34 is joined to the actuator tip 32 by adhesive or welding. The sealing member 34 is joined to the actuator tip 32 and the flow path member 33 by adhesive or welding.

[0096] Examples of adhesives include epoxy, silicone, acrylic, urethane, and fluorine-based adhesives. However, the type of adhesive is not limited to those listed above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0097] Examples of welding methods include resin welding. Types of resin welding include hot plate welding, ultrasonic welding, vibration welding, and laser welding. When joining by resin welding, it is desirable that the material used to form the sealing member 34 be the same resin material as the material used to form the cover plate 50 of the actuator tip 32 and / or the material used to form the flow channel member 33.

[0098] The sealing member 34 is superimposed on the upper surfaces of the flow channel member 33 and the actuator tip 32. The sealing member 34 is joined to the upper surfaces of the flow channel member 33 and the actuator tip 32 by adhesive or welding. The sealing member 34 closes the upper end opening of the space 65.

[0099] A slit 70a is formed in the central part of the sealing member 34 in the Y direction. The slit 70a penetrates the sealing member 34 in the Z direction and extends in the X direction.

[0100] The slit 70a is formed in a position that overlaps with the central part (excluding the outer periphery) of the actuator tip 32 in a plan view. The Y-direction dimension of the slit 70a is smaller than the Y-direction dimension of the actuator tip 32. The X-direction dimension of the slit 70a is smaller than the X-direction dimension of the actuator tip 32.

[0101] Although not shown in the diagram, the flexible printed circuit board is pressed against the upper surface of the cover plate 50 through the slit 70a. For example, after being pulled upward, the flexible printed circuit board is connected to a control unit (not shown).

[0102] <Printer Operation Method> Next, we will explain how to record characters, figures, etc., onto the recording medium P using the printer 1 configured as described above. Initially, it is assumed that the four ink tanks 4 shown in Figure 1 are each sufficiently filled with ink of a different color. Also, the ink in the ink tanks 4 is filled into the inkjet head 5 via the ink circulation mechanism 6.

[0103] In this initial state, when the printer 1 is activated, the recording medium P is carried to the +X side while being gripped by the rollers 11 and 12 of the transport mechanisms 2 and 3. At the same time, the carriage 29 moves in the Y direction, causing the inkjet heads 5 mounted on the carriage 29 to move back and forth in the Y direction. While the inkjet heads 5 are moving back and forth, ink is ejected from each inkjet head 5 onto the recording medium P as needed. This allows for the recording of characters, images, etc., on the recording medium P.

[0104] The movement of each inkjet head 5 is described in detail below. In the circulating side-chute type inkjet head 5, ink is first circulated through the circulation channel 23 by operating the pressure pump 24 and suction pump 25 shown in Figure 2. In this case, the ink circulating in the ink supply pipe 21 is supplied to the first common liquid chamber 61 through the inlet port 71. The ink supplied to the first common liquid chamber 61 is distributed to each discharge channel 42 through the +Y side opening in each discharge channel 42, and then circulates through each discharge channel 42 to the -Y side. After that, the ink is discharged to the second common liquid chamber 62 through the -Y side opening of each discharge channel 42. The ink discharged to the second common liquid chamber 62 flows into the ink discharge pipe 22 through the outlet port 72 and is returned to the ink tank 4. This allows ink to be circulated between the inkjet head 5 and the ink tank 4.

[0105] Then, when the reciprocating movement of the inkjet head 5 begins due to the movement of the carriage 29 (see Figure 1), a drive voltage is applied between the common electrode and the individual electrodes via a flexible printed circuit board (not shown). At this time, the common electrode is set to a reference potential GND and the individual electrodes are set to a drive potential Vdd when the drive voltage is applied. As a result, a potential difference is generated in the X direction between the common electrode and the individual electrodes facing each other across the drive wall 44. Due to the potential difference generated in the X direction, an electric field is generated in the actuator plate 40 in a direction perpendicular to the polarization direction (Z direction). As a result, the actuator plate 40 undergoes thickness sliding deformation in the Z direction due to shear mode. Specifically, thickness sliding deformation occurs in the two drive walls 44 that define the ejection channel 42, and these two drive walls 44 deform so that they protrude toward the non-ejection channel 43 side. That is, since the actuator plate 40 is made up of two piezoelectric substrates that have been polarized in the thickness direction (Z direction) stacked on top of each other, when a drive voltage is applied, it bends in a V shape around the midpoint position in the Z direction of the drive wall 44. As a result, the discharge channel 42 deforms as if it were expanding.

[0106] Subsequently, when the drive voltage is reduced to zero, the actuator plate 40 returns to its original state, causing the volume in the ejection channel 42 to return to its original size. During the process of the actuator plate 40 returning to its original state, the pressure in the ejection channel 42 increases, and the ink in the ejection channel 42 is ejected to the outside through the nozzle hole 31a. The ink ejected to the outside lands on the recording medium P, and the printed information is recorded on the recording medium P.

[0107] <Effects and Effects> The head tip 30 of this embodiment comprises a nozzle plate 31 having nozzle holes 31a for ejecting ink, an actuator tip 32 provided on the +Z side of the nozzle plate 31 and having a pressure chamber 42 that leads to the nozzle holes 31a and opens in the Y direction along the +Z side of the nozzle plate 31, a flow path member 33 provided on the +Z side of the nozzle plate 31 and outside the actuator tip 32 in the Y direction and having a space 65 that opens in the Z direction, and a sealing member 34 that is flexible in part and includes a damper portion 75 that covers the space 65 when viewed from the Z direction, and extends from the flow path member 33 to the actuator tip 32.

[0108] With this configuration, even if the alignment accuracy of the actuator chip 32 and the flow path member 33 in the height direction (Z direction of the nozzle plate 31) is low, the sealing member 34 can seal the space 65 of the flow path member 33 and the gap between the actuator chip 32 and the flow path member 33 to prevent ink leakage. Even if the design shape of the actuator chip 32 or the flow path member 33 is changed, the sealing structure can be flexibly adapted. Since machining is not required when assembling the head chip 30, the actuator chip 32 and the flow path member 33 can be assembled even if they are made of different materials, thus expanding the range of material selection. Since the accuracy required for manufacturing the components in the height direction is lower, the preparation of assembly components becomes simpler. Therefore, it is possible to provide a head chip 30 that offers greater freedom in product design and reduced costs.

[0109] In this embodiment, the flow path member 33 has a first common liquid chamber 61 that leads to the first side in the Y direction of the pressure chamber 42, and a second common liquid chamber 62 that leads to the second side of the pressure chamber 42 opposite to the first side in the Y direction. The sealing member 34 extends in the Y direction to close the first common liquid chamber 61 and the second common liquid chamber 62. With this configuration, even if the alignment accuracy of the actuator tip 32 and the flow path member 33 in the Y direction is low, the sealing member 34 can seal the gap between the actuator tip 32 and the flow path member 33 so that ink does not leak out.

[0110] In this embodiment, the actuator tip 32 is formed in a shape that follows the +Z plane and extends in the X direction. The flow channel member 33 is formed in a frame shape that surrounds the actuator tip 32 when viewed from the Z direction. The sealing member 34 extends in the X direction, straddling both the actuator tip 32 and the flow channel member 33. With this configuration, even if the alignment accuracy of the actuator tip 32 and the flow channel member 33 in the X direction is low, the sealing member 34 can seal the gap between the actuator tip and the flow channel member 33 to prevent ink leakage.

[0111] In this embodiment, the flow path member 33 is formed in a rectangular frame shape so as to surround the actuator tip 32 when viewed from the Z direction. The sealing member 34 extends from at least one of the four sides along the outer circumference of the flow path member 33 to the actuator tip 32 when viewed from the Z direction. This configuration simplifies the structure of the flow path member 33, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the flow path member 33. Compared to conventional structures, the damper portion 75 can be formed more widely in the sealing member 34, thus increasing the effect of the damper portion 75.

[0112] In this embodiment, the flow channel member 33 is formed to be larger than the actuator tip 32 in the Z direction. With this configuration, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow channel can be increased compared to the case where the flow channel member 33 is formed to be smaller than or equal to the actuator tip 32. As a result, the pressure in the flow channel can be kept uniform, the pressure difference between the pressure chambers 42 can be reduced, and variations in ink ejection can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the amount of ink supplied from the flow channel to the pressure chamber 42 is stable, stable ejection is possible even when the amount of ink to be ejected increases.

[0113] In this embodiment, the sealing member 34 is joined to the actuator tip 32 by adhesive or welding.

[0114] The inkjet head 5 of this embodiment includes the head chip 30 described above. This configuration provides an inkjet head 5 that offers greater flexibility in product design.

[0115] The printer 1 of this embodiment includes the inkjet head 5 described above. This configuration provides a printer 1 that offers greater flexibility in product design.

[0116] Incidentally, an inkjet head has been disclosed in which an ejection chamber through which nozzles communicate and a common liquid chamber communicating with each ejection chamber are formed. Part of the wall surface of the common liquid chamber is made up of nozzle plates that form the nozzles. In the inkjet head disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-114315), the volume of the common liquid chamber is 20 times or less the volume of each ejection chamber that connects to this common liquid chamber, and the nozzle plates that constitute the wall surface of the common liquid chamber are made of resin material. However, since the nozzle plates act as dampers that attenuate pressure waves in the common liquid chamber, the constituent material of the nozzle plates may be limited to highly flexible resin materials. Nozzle plates made of resin material are commonly used in inkjet heads, but they are prone to deterioration due to contact with the object to be printed and wiping operations. Therefore, it is desirable that other materials can also be selected as constituent materials for the nozzle plates. Furthermore, the common liquid chamber is designed to act as a damper, and part of the wall of the common liquid chamber is made up of nozzle plates formed of resin material. Therefore, the contact area between the nozzle plate and the flow path substrate decreases, which can make the nozzle plate more prone to peeling off. Since nozzle plate peeling directly leads to malfunctions in the discharge operation, it is desirable to have a structure that is less prone to malfunctions from the standpoint of operational stability.

[0117] In contrast, in the above-described embodiment, the head chip 30 can be assembled according to the following steps 1 to 3. First, the actuator chip 32 is bonded to the +Z plane side of the nozzle plate 31 with adhesive (step 1). Next, a flow channel member 33, which has a space 65 opening in the Z direction, is bonded to the nozzle plate 31 on the +Z plane side where the actuator chip 32 is bonded, and is located outside the actuator chip 32, using adhesive (step 2). Next, a sealing member 34, which is flexible and includes a damper portion 75, is bonded to the actuator chip 32 and the flow channel member 33 bonded to the nozzle plate 31 using adhesive (step 3). As a result, the space 65 in the flow channel member 33 and the gap between the actuator chip 32 and the flow channel member 33 are filled by the sealing member 34, thereby sealing the head chip. Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, even if the damper function is separated from the nozzle plate 31, the assembly load of the inkjet head product including the head chip 30 with a damper function can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to design the nozzle plate 31 to secure the constituent materials and bonding area, and the assembly load due to the damper structure does not increase. Furthermore, because the flexibility of the film constituting the sealing member 34 allows it to be attached along each member, even if there are dimensional errors or irregularities, the space 65 of the flow path member 33 and the gap between the actuator tip 32 and the flow path member 33 can be sealed simultaneously. Note that the size of the flow path member 33 and the actuator tip 32 may change due to design changes in flow rate and discharge performance, but the same method as described above can be used.

[0118] <Modifications> The technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the head chip 30A corresponding to the YZ plane according to the first modification of the first embodiment. In this modification, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the embodiments described above, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the first embodiment described above, an example was given in which the sealing member 34 is formed of a film, but it is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the sealing member 34A may be formed of a rubber material. Examples of rubber materials include chloroprene rubber, nitrile rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, acrylic rubber, fluororubber, urethane rubber, and silicone rubber. The form of the rubber material is not limited to the above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0119] The thickness of the sealing member 34A (rubber material) is set to a range of, for example, 0.02 mm or more and 0.2 mm or less. In the example shown in the figure, the thickness of the sealing member 34A is approximately 0.05 mm. The thickness of the sealing member 34A can be changed according to the design specifications, as long as flexibility during sealing is maintained.

[0120] The sealing member 34A is bonded to the actuator tip 32 and the flow path member 33 by an adhesive. Examples of adhesives include epoxy, silicone, acrylic, urethane, and fluorine-based adhesives. However, the type of adhesive is not limited to those described above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0121] According to the configuration of the head tip 30A in the first modified example, when a rubber material is used for the sealing member 34A, the damper effect and sealing structure can be maintained even if high pressure is generated inside the head tip 30A because the elasticity of the material is higher than that of a film. Furthermore, even if the member warps due to thermal expansion caused by temperature changes, the elasticity of the rubber material can mitigate the effects.

[0122] Figure 7 is a plan view of the head chip 30B according to a second modification of the first embodiment. In this modification, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the above-described embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the first embodiment described above, an example was given in which the space 65 extends continuously in the X direction when viewed from the Z direction, but this is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 7, the space 65B may extend intermittently in the X direction when viewed from the Z direction. Note that the sealing member 34 is not shown in Figure 7.

[0123] When viewed from the Z direction, the space 65B has multiple elongated slits with the X direction as its longitudinal direction, spaced apart in the X direction. When viewed from the Z direction, each space 65B corresponding to the first common liquid chamber 61 has a shape that overlaps with the first common liquid chamber 61 and is formed as an elongated slit with the X direction as its longitudinal direction. When viewed from the Z direction, each space 65B corresponding to the second common liquid chamber 62 has a shape that overlaps with the second common liquid chamber 62 and is formed as an elongated slit with the X direction as its longitudinal direction.

[0124] In the example shown in the figure, the plan view shape of space 65B is a rectangle with the X direction as its longitudinal direction. However, the plan view shape of space 65B may be other shapes (for example, a polygon or a circle). The plan view shape of space 65B can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0125] According to the configuration of the head tip 30B in the second modified example, the structure of the damper portion 75 differs from that of the first embodiment, allowing for pressure adjustment from the perspective of the structure of the damper portion 75 and increasing the possibility of ink ejection. For example, it is possible to optimize the reduction of crosstalk caused by pressure waves, the mitigation effect when the ink inflow pressure is high, and the reduction of external influences transmitted from the ink to the head tip. In addition, the rigidity of the flow path member 33 can be adjusted. For example, if the damper portion 75 is too wide, the rigidity may decrease and malfunctions may occur. In contrast, according to the second modified example, the space 65B can be made smaller and the damper portion 75 can be made narrower, thus avoiding a situation where the rigidity decreases and malfunctions occur.

[0126] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 30C corresponding to the YZ plane according to a third modified example of the first embodiment. In this modified example, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the above-described embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the first embodiment described above, the flow path member 33 was described with an example that included an outer wall portion 66 that forms the outer shape of the flow path member 33 in a plan view, and an inner wall portion 67 that is positioned inside the outer wall portion 66 and has an inclined surface 67a that slopes inward in the Y direction and toward the -Z side, but it is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 8, the flow path member 33C does not have to include an inner wall portion 67 having an inclined surface 67a.

[0127] The flow channel member 33C is formed in a rectangular frame shape that is larger than the outer shape of the actuator tip 32, so as to surround the actuator tip 32 when viewed from the Z direction. The first common liquid chamber 61 and the second common liquid chamber 62 are each demarcated by the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 31, the inner surface in the Y direction of the flow channel member 33C, and the outer surface in the Y direction of the actuator tip 32.

[0128] According to the configuration of the head tip 30C in the third modified example, the flow path member 33C does not include an inner wall portion 67 having an inclined surface 67a, thus simplifying the flow path member 33C and making the damper portion 75 wider.

[0129] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 30D corresponding to the YZ plane according to a fourth modified example of the first embodiment. In this modified example, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the above-described embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the first embodiment described above, the space 65 was described as being formed in a shape having a uniform opening area over the Z direction (an example in which the damper portion 75 has a vertical structure), but it is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 9, the space 65D may be formed in a shape with different opening areas in a part of the Z direction.

[0130] Space 65D is formed in a tapered shape, with the opening area gradually decreasing from bottom to top in the +Z side portion. Space 65D is formed such that the damper portion 75 has a tapered structure. In a YZ cross-sectional view, space 65D corresponding to the first common liquid chamber 61 and space 65D corresponding to the second common liquid chamber 62 are formed in a tapered shape, with the opening area gradually decreasing from bottom to top in the +Z side portion.

[0131] According to the configuration of the head tip 30D in the fourth modified example, since the damper portion 75 has a tapered structure, compared to the case where the damper portion 75 has a vertical structure, the reduction in the effectiveness of the damper portion 75 can be suppressed while increasing the bonding area of ​​the sealing member 34 to the flow path member 33.

[0132] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 30E corresponding to the YZ plane according to a fifth modified example of the first embodiment. In this modified example, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the above-described embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted. For example, as shown in Figure 10, the space 65E may be formed in a shape with a different opening area in a part of the Z direction.

[0133] Space 65E is formed in a tapered shape where the opening area gradually decreases from top to bottom in the +Z side portion. In other words, space 65E is formed in a tapered shape where the opening area gradually increases from bottom to top in the +Z side portion. In a YZ cross-sectional view, space 65E is formed in an inverse tapered shape, the opposite of space 65D in the fourth modified example. Space 65E is formed such that the damper portion 75 has an inverse tapered structure. In a YZ cross-sectional view, space 65E corresponding to the first common liquid chamber 61 and space 65E corresponding to the second common liquid chamber 62 are formed in an inverse tapered shape where the opening area gradually increases from bottom to top in the +Z side portion.

[0134] According to the configuration of the head tip 30E in the fifth modified example, the damper portion 75 has an inverse taper structure, so the effect of the damper portion 75 can be improved in a smaller machining area compared to the case where the damper portion 75 has a vertical structure.

[0135] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 30F corresponding to the YZ plane according to the sixth modified example of the first embodiment. In this modified example, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the above-described embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the first embodiment described above, an example was given in which the flow path member 33 has a space 65 that opens in the Z direction (a direction intersecting one surface of the nozzle plate 31) (an example of a structure in which the damper portion 75 is located above), but it is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 11, the flow path member 33 may have a space 65F that opens in the Y direction (a direction along one surface of the nozzle plate 31).

[0136] The sealing member 34 includes a damper portion 75 that covers the space 65F when viewed from the Y direction (the direction along one surface of the nozzle plate 31). In the example shown in the figure, the sealing member 34 extends from the Y-direction outer surface of the flow path member 33, the +Z plane and inclined surface 67a of the flow path member 33 to the +Z plane of the outer circumference of the cover plate 50 of the actuator tip 32.

[0137] According to the configuration of the head tip 30F in the sixth modified example, the damper portion 75 is positioned laterally, which allows for a larger bonding area of ​​the sealing member 34 to the flow path member 33 compared to the structure in which the damper portion 75 is positioned above.

[0138] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 30G corresponding to the YZ plane according to the seventh modification of the first embodiment. In this modification, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the above-described embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted. For example, as shown in Figure 12, the space 65G may be formed in a shape with a different opening area in a part of the Y direction.

[0139] Space 65G is formed in a tapered shape in the outer portion in the Y direction, where the opening area gradually decreases from the inside to the outside. Space 65G is formed such that the damper portion 75 has a tapered structure. In a YZ cross-sectional view, space 65G corresponding to the first common liquid chamber 61 and space 65G corresponding to the second common liquid chamber 62 are formed in a tapered shape in the outer portion in the Y direction, where the opening area gradually decreases from the inside to the outside.

[0140] According to the configuration of the head tip 30G in the seventh modified example, the damper portion 75 has a tapered structure, so compared to the structure in the sixth modified example, the reduction in the effect of the damper portion 75 can be suppressed while increasing the bonding area of ​​the sealing member 34 to the flow path member 33.

[0141] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 30H corresponding to the YZ plane according to the eighth modified example of the first embodiment. In this modified example, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the above-described embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted. For example, as shown in Figure 13, the space 65H may be formed in a shape with a different opening area in a part of the Y direction.

[0142] Space 65H is formed in a tapered shape in the outer portion in the Y direction, where the opening area gradually decreases as it moves from the outside to the inside. In other words, space 65H is formed in a tapered shape in the outer portion in the Y direction, where the opening area gradually increases as it moves from the inside to the outside. In a YZ cross-sectional view, space 65H is formed in an inverse tapered shape, the opposite of space 65G in the seventh modified example. Space 65H is formed such that the damper portion 75 has an inverse tapered structure. In a YZ cross-sectional view, space 65H corresponding to the first common liquid chamber 61 and space 65H corresponding to the second common liquid chamber 62 are formed in an inverse tapered shape in the outer portion in the Y direction, where the opening area gradually increases as it moves from the inside to the outside.

[0143] According to the configuration of the head tip 30H in the eighth modified example, the damper portion 75 has a reverse taper structure, so the effect of the damper portion 75 can be improved with a smaller machining area compared to the structure in the sixth modified example.

[0144] In the first embodiment, fourth modification, and fifth modification described above, examples of a structure in which the damper portion 75 is located on top are shown, and in the sixth to eighth modifications, examples of a structure in which the damper portion 75 is located to the side are shown, but the invention is not limited to these. For example, in a head tip, the damper portion 75 may be located both on top and to the side. For example, the flow path member 33 may be provided on the +Z side of the nozzle plate 31, outside the actuator tip 32 in the Y direction, with a space formed therein that opens in a direction intersecting the +Z surface of the nozzle plate 31 and / or along the +Z surface of the nozzle plate 31, and the sealing member 34 may include a damper portion 75 that is at least partially flexible and covers the space when viewed from the direction intersecting the +Z surface of the nozzle plate 31 and / or along the +Z surface of the nozzle plate 31, and may extend from the flow path member 33 to the actuator tip 32. The structure of the damper portion 75 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0145] <Second Embodiment> Figure 14 is a plan view of the head chip 230 according to the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, components similar to those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the first embodiment described above, an example was given in which the actuator chip 32 is spaced apart from the flow channel member 33, but this is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 14, the actuator chip 32 may be in contact with the flow channel member 33. Note that the sealing member 34 is not shown in Figure 14.

[0146] The flow path member 33 includes a first wall portion 81 that forms a first common liquid chamber 61 and a second wall portion 82 that forms a second common liquid chamber 62. The actuator tip 32 is in contact with either the first wall portion 81 or the second wall portion 82. The actuator tip 32 is also in contact with either the third wall portion 83 or the fourth wall portion 84.

[0147] In the example shown in the figure, the actuator tip 32 is positioned off-center to the +Y and -X sides in a plan view. The actuator tip 32 is in contact with the first wall portion 81 and the fourth wall portion 84, respectively, and spaced apart from the second wall portion 82 and the third wall portion 83, respectively. The +X side end face of the actuator tip 32 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the flow channel member 33 that faces the -X side. The -X side end face of the actuator tip 32 is in contact with the inner surface of the flow channel member 33 that faces the +X side. The +Y side end face of the actuator tip 32 is in contact with the inner surface of the flow channel member 33 that faces the -Y side. The -Y side end face of the actuator tip 32 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the flow channel member 33 that faces the +Y side.

[0148] The flow path member 33 of this embodiment includes a first wall portion 81 that forms a first common liquid chamber 61 and a second wall portion 82 that forms a second common liquid chamber 62. The actuator tip 32 is in contact with either the first wall portion 81 or the second wall portion 82. With this configuration, the position of the flow path member 33 can be fixed by contact with the actuator tip 32, thereby reducing the burden of assembling the head tip 230.

[0149] <Third Embodiment> Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the head chip 330 according to the third embodiment, corresponding to the YZ plane. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the head chip 330 according to the third embodiment, corresponding to the XZ plane. In the third embodiment, components similar to those in the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the first embodiment described above, an example was given in which the flow channel member 33 is formed to be larger than the actuator chip 32 in the Z direction, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figures 15 and 16, the flow channel member 333 may be formed to be the same size as the actuator chip 32 in the Z direction.

[0150] As shown in Figure 15, in the head tip 330 of this embodiment, the height Z2 from the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 31 to the +Z plane of the flow path member 333 in the Z direction may be the same as the height Z1 from the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 31 to the +Z plane of the actuator tip 32 (Z2 = Z1).

[0151] According to the configuration of the head chip 330 in this embodiment, compared to the case where the flow channel member is formed to a different size from the actuator chip, it becomes easier to seal the space 65 of the flow channel member 333 and the gap between the actuator chip 32 and the flow channel member 333 with the sealing member 34.

[0152] <Fourth Embodiment> Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the head chip 430 according to the fourth embodiment, corresponding to the YZ plane. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the head chip 430 according to the fourth embodiment, corresponding to the XZ plane. In the fourth embodiment, components similar to those in the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the first embodiment described above, an example was given in which the actuator chip 32 is not covered by the flow channel member 33 when viewed from the Z direction, but the description is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figures 17 and 18, the flow channel member 433 may include a roof portion 433a that extends from the portion forming the space 65 and covers the actuator chip 32 when viewed from the Z direction.

[0153] The roof portion 433a is provided on the inner wall portion 67 having an inclined surface 67a in the flow path member 433. The -Z plane of the roof portion 433a is formed to align with the XY plane. The -Z plane of the roof portion 433a may be spaced apart from the +Z plane of the actuator tip 32.

[0154] In this embodiment, the flow path member 433, when viewed from the Z direction, includes a roof portion 433a that extends from the portion forming the space 65 and covers the actuator tip 32. With this configuration, since the actuator tip 32 is covered by the roof portion 433a, it becomes easy to seal the gap between the actuator tip 32 and the flow path member 433 with the sealing member 34. For example, if an adhesive or rubber material is used as the sealing member 34, it is also possible to close the gap between the actuator tip 32 and each roof portion 433a, thereby enhancing the sealing effect.

[0155] <Fifth Embodiment> Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 530 according to the fifth embodiment, corresponding to the YZ plane. In the fifth embodiment, components similar to those in the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the first embodiment described above, the nozzle plate 31 was described as being joined to the lower surface of the flow path member 33 via an adhesive or the like, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 19, the flow path member 533 may be integrally formed from the same material as the nozzle plate 531.

[0156] For example, the flow channel member 533 is formed integrally with the nozzle plate 531 using the same metal material (such as SUS or Ni-Pd). The material used to form the flow channel member 533 integrally with the nozzle plate 531 may be a single-layer or laminated structure made of a resin material (such as PI, PE, PET, PP, PPS, PC, PEEK, etc.), glass, or silicon, in addition to a metal material. The manner in which the flow channel member 533 is formed integrally with the nozzle plate 531 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0157] In this embodiment, the flow channel member 533 is integrally formed from the same material as the nozzle plate 531. With this configuration, there is no need to bond the flow channel member 533 to the nozzle plate 531, thus reducing the burden of assembling the head tip 530. For example, if the flow channel member and the nozzle plate are made of different materials, there is a high possibility that they will warp due to differences in expansion rates when the temperature changes. In contrast, with this configuration, warping when the temperature changes occurs can be suppressed, thus reducing the burden of assembling the head tip 530.

[0158] <Sixth Embodiment> Figure 20 is a plan view of the head tip 630 according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 630 corresponding to the line XXI-XXI in Figure 20. In the sixth embodiment, components similar to those in the embodiments described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the first embodiment described above, the example was given in which the multiple nozzle holes 31a are spaced apart in the X direction (one row of nozzles is provided), but the invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figures 20 and 21, multiple rows of nozzles 631A and 631B may be provided spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0159] Multiple nozzle holes 31a are arranged along the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 631 and in the X direction. When the multiple nozzle holes 31a are designated as nozzle rows 631A and 631B, multiple nozzle rows 631A and 631B are provided with spacing in the Y direction. Multiple actuator tips 632A and 632B are provided with spacing in the Y direction so that their pressure chambers 642A and 642B lead to their respective nozzle holes 31a.

[0160] The multiple actuator chips 632A and 632B include a first actuator chip 632A in which a first pressure chamber 642A is formed, and a second actuator chip 632B positioned adjacent to the first actuator chip 632A in the Y direction and in which a second pressure chamber 642B is formed. In the Y direction, the first pressure chamber 642A side and the second pressure chamber 642B side are connected to each other. The nozzle hole 31a on the first pressure chamber 642A side may be positioned offset in the X direction relative to the nozzle hole 31a on the second pressure chamber 642B side.

[0161] The flow path member 633 is formed to be larger than each of the first actuator tip 632A and the second actuator tip 632B in the Z direction. The flow path member 633 includes a partition wall 685 between the first actuator tip 632A and the second actuator tip 632B in the Y direction. The partition wall 685 has a space 665 that opens in the Z direction, corresponding to a communication passage between the first pressure chamber 642A side and the second pressure chamber 642B side.

[0162] The sealing member 634 includes a damper portion 675 that covers the space 665 when viewed from the Z direction. The sealing member 634 extends in the Y direction so as to span the first actuator tip 632A, the partition wall portion 685, and the second actuator tip 632B.

[0163] In this embodiment, the nozzle holes 31a are arranged in multiple rows along the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 631 and in the X direction. When the multiple nozzle holes 31a are designated as nozzle rows 631A and 631B, the nozzle rows 631A and 631B are arranged in multiple rows with spacing in the Y direction. The actuator tips 632A and 632B are arranged in multiple rows with spacing in the Y direction so that the pressure chambers 642A and 642B lead to their respective nozzle holes 31a. With this configuration, since the nozzle rows 631A and 631B are arranged in multiple rows in the Y direction, it contributes to improving resolution.

[0164] <First Modification of the Sixth Embodiment> Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 630A corresponding to the YZ plane according to the first modification of the sixth embodiment. In this modification, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the above-described embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the sixth embodiment described above, the sealing member 634 was described as extending across the first actuator tip 632A, the partition wall portion 685, and the second actuator tip 632B in the Y direction, but it is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 22, the damper portion 675 may extend across the first actuator tip 632A and the second actuator tip 632B in the Y direction.

[0165] In this modified example, the flow channel member 633 does not have a partition wall 685 between the first actuator tip 632A and the second actuator tip 632B in the Y direction. In the Y direction, the first actuator tip 632A and the second actuator tip 632B are spaced apart from each other without the flow channel member 633 in between. The damper portion 675 extends linearly in the Y direction so as to straddle the first actuator tip 632A and the second actuator tip 632B in a YZ cross-sectional view.

[0166] The plurality of actuator tips 632A, 632B according to the first modified example of the sixth embodiment include a first actuator tip 632A in which a first pressure chamber 642A is formed, and a second actuator tip 632B positioned adjacent to the first actuator tip 632A in the Y direction and in which a second pressure chamber 642B is formed. In the Y direction, the first pressure chamber 642A side and the second pressure chamber 642B side are in communication with each other. The damper portion 675 extends across the first actuator tip 632A and the second actuator tip 632B in the Y direction. With this configuration, the structure of the flow path member 633 is simplified, and thus the manufacturing cost of the flow path member 633 is reduced. Compared to conventional structures, the damper portion 675 can be formed more widely, thus increasing the effect of the damper portion 675.

[0167] <Second Modification of the Sixth Embodiment> Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the head tip 630B corresponding to the YZ plane according to the second modification of the sixth embodiment. In this modification, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the above-described embodiment, and detailed explanations are omitted. In the sixth embodiment described above, an example was given in which the first pressure chamber 642A side and the second pressure chamber 642B side are connected to each other in the Y direction, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 23, the flow path member 633 may include a partition wall portion 686 that separates the first pressure chamber 642A side and the second pressure chamber 642B side in the Y direction.

[0168] The partition wall 686 is provided to separate the opening of the bulkhead wall 685 (the passage between the first pressure chamber 642A and the second pressure chamber 642B, and the space 665 corresponding to the passage) in the Y direction. The partition wall 686 extends in a straight line along the Z direction in a YZ cross-sectional view. The partition wall 686 extends from the center of the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 631 in the Y direction to the height of the +Z plane of the bulkhead wall 685.

[0169] The plurality of actuator chips 632A, 632B according to the second modified example of the sixth embodiment include a first actuator chip 632A in which a first pressure chamber 642A is formed, and a second actuator chip 632B positioned adjacent to the first actuator chip 632A in the Y direction and in which a second pressure chamber 642B is formed. The flow path member 633 includes a partition wall portion 686 that separates the first pressure chamber 642A side from the second pressure chamber 642B side in the Y direction. With this configuration, the partition wall portion 686 separates the first pressure chamber 642A side from the second pressure chamber 642B side, thereby suppressing so-called crosstalk, in which pressure fluctuations in the first pressure chamber 642A are propagated to the second pressure chamber 642B.

[0170] <Seventh Embodiment> Figure 24 is a plan view of the head tip 730 according to the seventh embodiment. In the seventh embodiment, components similar to those in the embodiments described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the first embodiment described above, the flow path member 33 was described as comprising a third wall portion 83 extending in the Y direction to connect the +X side ends of the first wall portion 81 and the second wall portion 82, and a fourth wall portion 84 extending in the Y direction to connect the -X side ends of the first wall portion 81 and the second wall portion 82, but is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 24, the flow path member 733 may be configured by removing the third wall portion 83 and the fourth wall portion 84 (see Figure 3) from the first wall portion 81 and the second wall portion 82.

[0171] The flow channel member 733 has recesses 791 and 792 formed therein that open outward from the outer edge of the actuator chip 32 when viewed from the Z direction. The recesses 791 and 792 are formed in a rectangular shape that is elongated in the Y direction when viewed from the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the inner surfaces of the recesses 791 and 792 in the Y direction extend in the X direction so as to connect with the inner surface of the chip housing 63 in the Y direction. The bottom surface (+Z plane) of the recesses 791 and 792 is lower in the Z direction than the upper surfaces (+Z plane) of the first wall portion 81 and the second wall portion 82, respectively. The sealing member 734 (film) covers the recesses 791 and 792 when viewed from the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the sealing member 734 is provided so as to overlap the outer periphery of the actuator chip 32 and the flow channel member 733 in which the recesses 791 and 792 are formed. In Figure 24, the sealing member 734 is shown by a dashed line.

[0172] The actuator tip 32 is formed in a shape that follows the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 31 and extends in the X direction. Multiple recesses 791 and 792 are formed so as to communicate outward from both ends of the actuator tip 32 in the X direction. The sealing member 734 extends across both ends of the actuator tip 32 and the recesses 791 and 792 in the X direction.

[0173] The plurality of recesses 791, 792 include a first recess 791 that extends outward from one end of the actuator tip 32 in the X direction and a second recess 792 that extends outward from the other end of the actuator tip 32 in the X direction. The sealing member 734 extends across both ends of the actuator tip 32 and across the first recess 791 and the second recess 792 in the X direction.

[0174] In this embodiment, the flow channel member 733 has recesses 791 and 792 formed therein that open outward from the outer edge of the actuator tip 32 when viewed from the Z direction. The sealing member 734 covers the recesses 791 and 792 when viewed from the Z direction. With this configuration, when the sealing member 734 seals the gap between the actuator tip 32 and the flow channel member 733, the air around the actuator tip 32 can escape outward through the recesses 791 and 792, thereby contributing to improved sealing performance and durability.

[0175] In this embodiment, the actuator tip 32 is formed in a shape that extends along the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 31 and in the X direction. Multiple recesses 791 and 792 are formed so as to communicate outward from both ends of the actuator tip 32 in the X direction. The sealing member 734 extends across both ends of the actuator tip 32 and the recesses 791 and 792 in the X direction. With this configuration, when sealing the gap between the actuator tip 32 and the flow path member 733 with the sealing member 734, air can be released outward from both ends of the actuator tip 32 along the X direction through the recesses 791 and 792, making it possible to seal more smoothly.

[0176] <Eighth Embodiment> Figure 25 is a plan view of the head chip 830 according to the eighth embodiment. In the eighth embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the embodiments described above, and detailed descriptions are omitted. In the seventh embodiment described above, the recesses 791 and 792 were described as being formed in a rectangular shape that is long in the Y direction when viewed from the Z direction, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 25, the recesses 891 and 892 may be formed in a shape that is inclined with respect to the X direction when viewed from the Z direction.

[0177] The sealing member 834 (film) covers the recesses 891 and 892 when viewed from the Z direction. The sealing member 834 is provided so as to overlap the outer periphery of the actuator tip 32 and the flow channel member 833 in which the recesses 891 and 892 are formed, when viewed from the Z direction. In Figure 25, the sealing member 834 is shown by a dashed line.

[0178] The actuator tip 32 is formed in a shape that extends along the +Z plane of the nozzle plate 831 and in the X direction. The plurality of recesses 891, 892 include a first recess 891 that extends outward from one end of the actuator tip 32 in the X direction and a second recess 892 that extends outward from the other end of the actuator tip 32 in the X direction. At least one of the first recess 891 and the second recess 892 has inclined edges 891a, 892a that extend inward in the Y direction when viewed from the Z direction.

[0179] In the example shown in Figure 25, the first recess 891 and the second recess 892 each have inclined edges 891a and 892a that extend inward in the Y direction when viewed from the Z direction. The inclined edge 891a of the first recess 891 extends inward from the +X end of the Y-direction inner surface (+Y-side inner surface) of the chip housing 63, inclined toward the +X and -Y sides when viewed from the Z direction. The inclined edge 892a of the second recess 892 extends inward from the -X end of the Y-direction inner surface (-Y-side inner surface) of the chip housing 63, inclined toward the -X and +Y sides when viewed from the Z direction. Note that either the first recess 891 or the second recess 892 (one side) may have inclined edges 891a and 892a that extend inward in the Y direction when viewed from the Z direction. The installation configuration of the inclined edges 891a and 892a can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0180] The flow path member 833 has a first common liquid chamber 61 that leads to the +Y side of the discharge channel 42 and a second common liquid chamber 62 that leads to the -Y side of the discharge channel 42. The flow path member 833 is provided with an inlet port 71 for supplying liquid to the first common liquid chamber 61 and an outlet port 72 for discharging liquid from the second common liquid chamber 62. At least one of the inlet port 71 and the outlet port 72 is positioned adjacent to the inclined edges 891a and 892a when viewed from the Z direction.

[0181] In the example shown in Figure 25, the inlet port 71 and the outlet port 72 are positioned adjacent to the inclined edges 891a and 892a when viewed from the Z direction. The inlet port 71 is positioned adjacent to the -X side of the inclined edge 891a of the first recess 891 (the part closer to the +X end of the chip housing 63) when viewed from the Z direction. The outlet port 72 is positioned adjacent to the +X side of the inclined edge 892a of the second recess 892 (the part closer to the -X end of the chip housing 63) when viewed from the Z direction. Note that either the inlet port 71 or the outlet port 72 (one side) may be positioned adjacent to the inclined edges 891a and 892a when viewed from the Z direction. The arrangement of the inlet port 71 and the outlet port 72 with respect to the inclined edges 891a and 892a can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0182] At least one of the first recess 891 and the second recess 892 has outward-sloping edges 891b, 892b that extend inclined outward in the Y direction when viewed from the Z direction. In the example of Figure 25, each of the first recess 891 and the second recess 892 has outward-sloping edges 891b, 892b that extend inclined outward in the Y direction when viewed from the Z direction. The outward-sloping edge 891b of the first recess 891 extends inclined from the +X end of the Y-direction inner surface (-Y side inner surface) of the chip housing 63 toward the +X side and toward the -Y side when viewed from the Z direction. The outward-sloping edge 891b of the first recess 891 extends substantially parallel to the inward-sloping edge 891a of the first recess 891 when viewed from the Z direction. The outer inclined edge 892b of the second recess 892 extends from the -X end of the inner surface (+Y side inner surface) of the chip housing 63 in the Y direction, inclined toward both the -X and +Y sides, as viewed from the Z direction. The outer inclined edge 892b of the second recess 892 extends substantially parallel to the inner inclined edge 892a of the second recess 892, as viewed from the Z direction. Either the first recess 891 or the second recess 892 (one side) may have outer inclined edges 891b, 892b that extend inclined toward the outside in the Y direction, as viewed from the Z direction. The installation configuration of the outer inclined edges 891b, 892b can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0183] The flow channel member 833 has notches 895 formed on the outside of the outward-sloping edges 891b and 892b when viewed from the Z direction. In the example of Figure 25, the notches 895 are formed on the outside (+X side and -Y side) of the outward-sloping edge 891b of the first recess 891 and on the outside (-X side and +Y side) of the outward-sloping edge 892b of the second recess 892, respectively, when viewed from the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the length of the outward-sloping edge 891b of the first recess 891 is shorter than the length of the inward-sloping edge 891a of the first recess 891. When viewed from the Z direction, the length of the outward-sloping edge 892b of the second recess 892 is shorter than the length of the inward-sloping edge 892a of the second recess 892. The notch 895 may be formed on either the outside of the outward-sloping edge 891b of the first recess 891 or the outside of the outward-sloping edge 892b of the second recess 892, when viewed from the Z direction. The manner in which the notch 895 is formed on the outside of the outward-sloping edges 891b and 892b can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0184] The plurality of recesses 891 and 892 in this embodiment include a first recess 891 that extends outward from one end of the actuator tip 32 in the X direction and a second recess 892 that extends outward from the other end of the actuator tip 32 in the X direction. Each of the first recess 891 and the second recess 892 has an inclined edge portion 891a, 892a that extends inward in the Y direction when viewed from the Z direction. With this configuration, the dimensions in the Y direction (or X direction) of the flow channel member 833 can be reduced compared to the case where each of the first recess 891 and the second recess 892 extends in the X direction when viewed from the Z direction (as shown in Figure 24) or the case where they extend inclined outward on both sides in the Y direction (the opposite direction to the case shown in Figure 25, i.e., each inclined edge portion of each recess extends inclined outward on both sides in the Y direction), making it easier to miniaturize the head tip 830. The miniaturized head chip 830 allows for a smaller inkjet head, making it easier to handle, for example, when multiple inkjet heads are lined up in a printer.

[0185] The flow path member 833 of this embodiment has a first common liquid chamber 61 that leads to the +Y side of the discharge channel 42 and a second common liquid chamber 62 that leads to the -Y side of the discharge channel 42. The flow path member 833 is provided with an inlet port 71 for supplying liquid to the first common liquid chamber 61 and an outlet port 72 for discharging liquid from the second common liquid chamber 62. The inlet port 71 and the outlet port 72 are positioned adjacent to the inclined edges 891a and 892a when viewed from the Z direction. With this configuration, compared to the case where the first recess 891 and the second recess 892 each extend inclined outwards in the Y direction when viewed from the Z direction, the inlet port 71 and the outlet port 72 can each be positioned inward in the Y direction, making it easier to miniaturize the head tip 830.

[0186] In this embodiment, the first recess 891 and the second recess 892 each have outward-sloping edges 891b and 892b that extend outward in the Y direction when viewed from the Z direction. The flow channel member 833 has a notch 895 formed on the outside of the outward-sloping edges 891b and 892b when viewed from the Z direction. This configuration allows for a reduction in the material used to form the flow channel member 833 in the notch 895, thus contributing to cost reduction and weight reduction.

[0187] (Other Modifications) The scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. For example, in the embodiments described above, an inkjet printer was used as an example of a liquid jet recording device, but it is not limited to a printer. For example, the liquid jet recording device may be a fax machine or an on-demand printer. In the embodiments described above, a configuration in which the inkjet head moves relative to the recording medium during printing (a so-called shuttle machine) was used as an example, but it is not limited to this configuration. The configuration according to the present disclosure may be adopted in a configuration in which the recording medium is moved relative to the inkjet head while the inkjet head is fixed (a so-called fixed-head machine). In the embodiments described above, the case in which the recording medium is paper was described, but it is not limited to this configuration. The recording medium is not limited to paper, but may be a metal material, a resin material, or even food. In the embodiments described above, a configuration in which the liquid jet head is mounted on the liquid jet recording device was described, but it is not limited to this configuration. In other words, the liquid sprayed from the liquid spray head is not limited to liquids that are to be sprayed onto a recording medium, but may also be, for example, a drug solution to be mixed in a compounding agent, a food additive such as a seasoning or flavoring to be added to food, or a fragrance to be sprayed into the air. In the embodiment described above, a configuration in which the Z direction coincides with the direction of gravity was described, but the embodiment is not limited to this configuration. For example, the Z direction may be aligned with the horizontal direction.

[0188] In the embodiment described above, a discharge channel that serves as a pressure chamber is formed in the actuator plate itself, and the direction of the pressure applied to the ink and the direction of ink discharge intersect, a so-called wall-vent type actuator tip was used as an example. However, the configuration is not limited to this. A roof-chute type actuator tip (where the direction of the pressure applied to the ink and the direction of ink discharge are the same) may also be used.

[0189] The embodiments described above describe a side-chute actuator chip, but are not limited to this. For example, the above embodiments may be appropriately applied to a so-called edge-chute type actuator chip that ejects ink from the extending end of the ejection channel.

[0190] Furthermore, without departing from the spirit of the present invention, the components in the embodiments described above may be replaced with well-known components as appropriate, and the modifications described above may be combined as appropriate.

[0191] While preferred embodiments and variations of the Disclosure have been described and explained above, it should be understood that these are illustrative examples of the Disclosure and should not be considered as limiting. Additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the Disclosure. Therefore, the Disclosure should not be considered limited by the foregoing description, but rather limited by the claims.

[0192] 1… Printer (liquid ejection recording device) 5… Inkjet head (liquid ejection head) 30, 30A-30H, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, 630A, 630B, 730, 830… Head chip 31, 531, 631, 831… Nozzle plate 31a… Nozzle hole 32… Actuator chip 33, 33C, 333, 433, 533, 633, 633A, 733, 833… Flow channel member 34, 34A, 634, 734, 834… Sealing member 42… Discharge channel (pressure chamber) 61… First common liquid chamber 62… Second common liquid chamber 65, 65B, 65D-65H, 665… Space 71… Inlet port 72… Outlet port 75, 675… Damper section 81... First wall section 82... Second wall section 433a... Roof section 631A, 631B... Nozzle row 632A... First actuator tip (actuator tip) 632B... Second actuator tip (actuator tip) 642A... First pressure chamber 642B... Second pressure chamber 686... Partition wall section 791, 891... First recess (recess) 792, 892... Second recess (recess) 891a, 892a... Inner inclined edge section 891b, 892b... Outer inclined edge section 895... Notch

Claims

1. A head tip comprising: a nozzle plate having nozzle holes for spraying liquid; an actuator tip provided on one side of the nozzle plate, having a pressure chamber that leads to the nozzle holes and opens in a first direction along the one side of the nozzle plate; a flow path member provided on the one side of the nozzle plate, outside the actuator tip in the first direction, having a space that opens in a direction intersecting the one side and / or along the one side; and a sealing member that is at least partially flexible and includes a damper portion that covers the space when viewed from the direction intersecting the one side and / or along the one side, extending from the flow path member to the actuator tip.

2. The flow path member is formed with a first common liquid chamber that leads to a first side in the first direction of the pressure chamber and a second common liquid chamber that leads to a second side of the pressure chamber opposite to the first side in the first direction, and the sealing member extends in the first direction to close the first common liquid chamber and the second common liquid chamber, the head tip according to claim 1.

3. The head chip according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuator chip is formed in a shape that extends along one surface and in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the flow channel member is formed in a frame shape that surrounds the actuator chip when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface, and the sealing member extends across the actuator chip and the flow channel member in the second direction.

4. The flow path member has a first common liquid chamber that leads to a first side in the first direction of the pressure chamber, and a second common liquid chamber that leads to a second side of the pressure chamber opposite to the first side in the first direction, and the flow path member comprises a first wall portion that forms the first common liquid chamber and a second wall portion that forms the second common liquid chamber, and the actuator tip is in contact with either the first wall portion or the second wall portion, the head tip according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The head chip according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flow channel member is formed in the shape of a rectangular frame that surrounds the actuator chip when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface, and the sealing member extends from at least one of the four sides along the outer circumference of the flow channel member to the actuator chip when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface.

6. The head tip according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flow channel member is formed to be larger than the actuator tip in a direction intersecting the one surface.

7. The head chip according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flow channel member is formed to be the same size as the actuator chip in a direction intersecting the one surface.

8. The head tip according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flow channel member, when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface, has a roof portion that extends from the portion forming the space and covers the actuator tip.

9. The head tip according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flow path member is integrally formed from the same material as the nozzle plate.

10. The head tip according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the nozzle holes are arranged in a plurality in a second direction that is along the surface and intersects the first direction, and when the plurality of nozzle holes form a nozzle row, the nozzle row is provided in a plurality of rows spaced apart in the first direction, and the actuator tips are provided in a plurality at intervals in the first direction such that the pressure chambers lead to each of the nozzle holes.

11. The head chip according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of actuator chips include a first actuator chip having a first pressure chamber formed thereon, and a second actuator chip positioned adjacent to the first actuator chip in the first direction and having a second pressure chamber formed thereon, wherein the first pressure chamber side and the second pressure chamber side are in contact with each other in the first direction, and the damper portion extends across the first actuator chip and the second actuator chip in the first direction.

12. The head chip according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of actuator chips include a first actuator chip having a first pressure chamber formed therein, and a second actuator chip positioned adjacent to the first actuator chip in the first direction and having a second pressure chamber formed therein, and the flow path member includes a partition wall portion that separates the first pressure chamber side from the second pressure chamber side in the first direction.

13. The head tip according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flow channel member has a recess formed therein that opens outward from the outer edge of the actuator tip when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface, and the sealing member covers the recess when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface.

14. The actuator tip is formed in a shape that extends along one surface and intersects the first direction in a second direction, the recesses are formed in a plurality so as to communicate outward from both ends of the actuator tip in the second direction, and the sealing member extends so as to straddle both ends of the actuator tip and the recesses in the second direction, the head tip according to claim 13.

15. The head tip according to claim 14, wherein the plurality of recesses include a first recess extending outward from one end of the actuator tip in the second direction, and a second recess extending outward from the other end of the actuator tip in the second direction, and at least one of the first recess and the second recess has an inclined edge that extends inward in the first direction when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface.

16. The head tip according to claim 15, wherein the flow path member is formed with a first common liquid chamber that leads to a first side of the pressure chamber in the first direction and a second common liquid chamber that leads to a second side of the pressure chamber opposite to the first side in the first direction, the flow path member is provided with an inlet port for supplying liquid to the first common liquid chamber and an outlet port for discharging liquid from the second common liquid chamber, and at least one of the inlet port and the outlet port is positioned adjacent to the inner inclined edge when viewed from a direction intersecting the one surface.

17. The head tip according to claim 15, wherein at least one of the first recess and the second recess has an outward-sloping edge portion that extends inclined outward in the first direction when viewed from a direction intersecting the surface, and the flow channel member has a notch formed on the outside of the outward-sloping edge portion when viewed from a direction intersecting the surface.

18. The head tip according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sealing member is joined to the actuator tip by adhesive or welding.

19. A liquid spray head comprising the head tip described in claim 1 or 2.

20. A liquid injection recording device comprising the liquid injection head described in claim 19.

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