CN104842660B - Box and seal member - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a cartridge and a sealing member capable of reducing the possibility of liquid leaking to the outside. A cartridge containing a liquid for supply to a liquid ejection device includes: a liquid storage portion; and a liquid supply portion connected to the liquid ejection device. Provided inside the liquid supply part are: a liquid outflow part that causes the liquid to flow out to the liquid ejection device; and an opening that connects the outside of the liquid supply part and the liquid Inside the supply part, the opening is not in contact with the side of the liquid supply part.

Description

Box and sealing parts

This application is a divisional application based on the invention with the application number 201310192376.2, the application date is May 22, 2013, the applicant is Seiko Epson Co., Ltd., and the invention name is "box and sealing parts".

technical field

The present invention relates to cartridge technology.

Background technique

Conventionally, as a technique for supplying ink to a printer that is an example of a liquid ejecting device, a technique using an ink cartridge (also simply referred to as a “cartridge”) accommodating ink is known. The cartridge includes a liquid storage portion for containing ink, and a liquid supply portion for supplying the ink of the liquid storage portion to the printer. One end of the liquid supply part communicates with the liquid storage part, and a liquid supply port is formed as an opening at the other end (for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

prior art literature

patent documents

Patent Document 1: US Patent No. 7735983;

Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Document Patent No. 7938523.

The cartridges described in the Patent Documents may, for example, be impacted during transport and the ink in the liquid container may leak out of the cartridge before use. When ink leaks to the outside of the cartridge, various undesirable situations can occur. For example, the amount of ink that can be used by the user may decrease. In addition, ink may adhere to a user, a printer, a printing medium, or the like.

In addition, the cartridge before being attached to the printer may have a cap attached to the liquid supply port in order to prevent ink from leaking from the liquid supply port. When the cap is mounted on the box, various disadvantages may occur. For example, when ink is attached to the cap and the user removes the cap from the cartridge, the ink of the cap may adhere to the user. In addition, ink may leak from the liquid supply port to the outside due to, for example, the cap not being properly attached to the cartridge.

As noted above, the aforementioned desire in cartridges and caps is not limited to cartridges containing ink or caps mounted to cartridges containing ink, to cartridges containing printing materials other than printing materials or liquids and caps mounted to such cartridges also co-exist. In addition, in such a case or cap, miniaturization, cost reduction, resource saving, ease of manufacture, improvement of usability, and the like are desired.

Contents of the invention

An advantage of some aspects of the invention is to solve at least a part of the problems described above, and the invention can be implemented as the following aspects.

(1) According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for accommodating a liquid to be supplied to a liquid ejecting device. The cartridge includes: a liquid storage portion; and a liquid supply portion connected to the liquid ejection device. Provided inside the liquid supply part are: a liquid outflow part that causes the liquid to flow out to the liquid ejection device; and an opening that connects the outside of the liquid supply part and the liquid The interior of the supply department. In addition, the opening is not in contact with a side surface of the liquid supply part. According to the cartridge of this aspect, the opening does not contact the side surface of the liquid supply part. With this configuration, even in the case where the liquid flows sideways, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the liquid flowing sideways reaches the opening. Thereby, it is possible to reduce the possibility of the liquid leaking to the outside through the opening.

(2) In the cartridge of the above aspect, the opening may be one end of a passage protruding inside the liquid supply part. According to the cartridge of this aspect, since the opening is one end of the protruding passage, even when the liquid flows along the inner surface of the liquid supply part, the possibility of the liquid reaching the opening can be reduced. Thereby, it is possible to reduce the possibility of the liquid leaking to the outside through the opening.

(3) In the cartridge of the above aspect, the opening may be located at a location in the outflow direction of the liquid from a peripheral portion of the liquid outflow portion that is closest to the passage. downstream side. According to the cartridge of this aspect, the possibility of liquid reaching the opening can be further reduced. For example, in a case where the downstream side is higher than the upstream side, the opening is located higher than the closest peripheral edge portion (also referred to as “first peripheral edge portion”). Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the liquid leaked from the first peripheral portion or the vicinity of the first peripheral portion reaches the opening.

(4) In the cartridge of the above aspect, the liquid supply part and the passage may be integrally formed. According to the cartridge of this aspect, compared with the case where the liquid supply part and the passage are formed by separate members, the possibility of a gap occurring between the liquid supply part and the passage due to damage or the like can be reduced. Accordingly, the possibility of liquid flowing into the passage through the gap can be reduced.

(5) In the above-mentioned case, it may include: a first surface; a second surface; a third surface; a fourth surface; and a transparent member arranged on the first surface. , the liquid supply part is provided on the first surface, the fourth surface is opposite to the first surface, and the second surface is formed between the first surface and the fourth surface Between, the third surface faces the second surface, the first surface has a first end on the second surface side and a second end on the third surface side, the The permeable member is disposed on a side of the first surface that is closer to the first end than the second end, and the liquid supply unit is disposed on a side of the first surface that is closer to the second end than the second end. One end is close to the side of the second end. According to the cartridge of this aspect, the liquid supply part is located on the second end side, and the permeation part is located on the first end side. That is, the liquid supply part and the permeation part are in separate positions. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the liquid flowing out from the liquid supply part adheres to the permeation part. Accordingly, for example, when the remaining liquid level state (the presence or absence of the remaining liquid level and the remaining liquid level) is detected optically using the first member, it is possible to suppress a decrease in detection accuracy of the remaining liquid level state.

(6) In the cartridge of the above aspect, the opening may be located downstream of the liquid outflow portion in the outflow direction of the liquid. According to the cartridge of this aspect, the possibility of liquid reaching the opening can be further reduced. For example, in a case where the downstream side is vertically above the upstream side of the cartridge, the opening is located above the liquid outflow portion. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the liquid leaked from the liquid outflow part reaches the opening.

(7) In the cartridge of the above aspect, the opening may be located upstream of the liquid outflow portion in the outflow direction of the liquid. According to the cartridge of this aspect, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the opening collides with other members located in the vicinity of the liquid outflow portion. For example, there is a liquid ejecting device as another component.

(8) In the case of the above aspect, it may further include a sealing member that blocks the liquid supply part and has a handle, and the opening and the handle are located at the same position as the liquid outflow part. side. According to the cartridge of this aspect, when the cartridge is placed on a predetermined surface with the handle vertically down, the posture of the cartridge becomes unstable. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the case from being placed on the predetermined surface with the handle on the lower side. Here, the opening and the handle are located on the same side with respect to the liquid outlet. That is, the possibility of the opening being lower than the liquid outflow part can be reduced by the handle, and the possibility that the liquid leaked from the liquid outflow part reaches the opening can be reduced.

(9) In the case of the above aspect, the sealing member may have a sealing portion that closes at least a part of the opening. According to the cartridge of this aspect, at least a part of the opening is blocked by the sealing portion, thereby reducing the possibility that the liquid will flow out to the outside through the opening.

(10) In the cartridge of the above aspect, a plurality of the liquid supply parts may be provided, a plurality of the openings may be provided, and the sealing part of the sealing member may be provided corresponding to the plurality of openings. A plurality of seal members are provided, and the seal member has a first stepped portion between the respective seal portions. According to the cartridge of this aspect, even when liquid reaches one sealing portion, the step portion can suppress the liquid that has reached one sealing portion from reaching the other sealing portion.

(11) In the case of the above aspect, the sealing member may further include: a receiving portion that receives the liquid outflow portion and is provided at a position different from that of the sealing portion; and a second A stepped portion, the second stepped portion is located between the sealing portion and the receiving portion and includes at least one of a convex portion and a concave portion. According to the cartridge of this aspect, even when the liquid leaked from the liquid outflow portion adheres to the receiving portion, the possibility of the liquid reaching the sealing portion along the receiving portion can be reduced by the second step portion.

(12) In the case of the above aspect, the receiving portion may have a concave shape, and the second stepped portion may be formed by a peripheral edge portion of the receiving portion. According to the cartridge of this aspect, it is not necessary to provide a new separate member in order to provide the second step portion.

(13) In the cartridge of the above aspect, the liquid outflow portion may have an inclined portion inclined with respect to the direction in which the liquid flows out, and the sealing member may have a facing portion inclined in the direction in which the inclined portion is inclined. . According to the cartridge of this aspect, the facing portion is inclined in the direction in which the inclined portion of the liquid outflow portion is inclined. According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce the volume of the internal chamber formed by the sealing member and the liquid supply portion and containing air. Accordingly, it is possible to limit the amount of air flowing from the inner chamber into the liquid storage portion via the liquid outflow portion.

(14) In the cartridge of the above aspect, the liquid outflow part may have: an attachment part attached to the liquid supply part; a central part surrounded by the attachment part; and a non-installation part, which is different from the central part and the installation part, and the non-installation part can hold the liquid. According to the cartridge of this aspect, since the liquid can be held in the non-mounting portion, the possibility of the liquid reaching the opening can be reduced.

(15) In the case of the above aspect, the sealing member may be in contact with at least a part of the central portion. According to the cartridge of this aspect, the volume of the internal chamber in which air exists formed by the sealing member and the liquid supply part can be reduced. Accordingly, it is possible to further limit the amount of air flowing from the inner chamber into the liquid storage portion via the liquid outflow portion.

(16) In the case of the above aspect, the sealing member may not be in contact with the central portion. According to the cartridge of this aspect, the possibility of liquid adhering to the sealing member can be reduced.

(17) In the case of the above aspect, it may further include an opening sealing member that is a detachable member that blocks the opening and when projected on a plane perpendicular to the outflow direction of the liquid, , the opening sealing member is provided at a position not overlapping the liquid outflow portion. According to the cartridge of this aspect, since the opening sealing member does not overlap the liquid outflow portion, the possibility of the liquid leaking from the liquid outflow portion adhering to the opening sealing member can be reduced.

(18) In the above-described cartridge, it may further include a liquid supply port sealing member that is a detachable member that blocks the liquid supply port at one end of the liquid supply portion, The opening sealing member and the liquid supply port sealing member are partially bonded to each other. According to the cartridge of this aspect, the user can detach the opening sealing member and the liquid supply port sealing member from the cartridge with one operation.

(19) According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sealing member covering a liquid supply port located at one end of a liquid supply part having a liquid outflow part and an opening connected to the outside. At least a part of a surface of the sealing member that faces the liquid outflow portion seals the opening. According to the sealing member of this aspect, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the liquid will flow out to the outside through the opening of the liquid supply part.

(20) In the sealing member of the above aspect, the sealing member may not be in contact with the liquid outflow portion. According to the sealing member of this aspect, the possibility of liquid adhering to the sealing member can be reduced.

(21) In the sealing member of the above aspect, the sealing member may be in contact with the liquid outflow portion. According to the sealing member of this aspect, it is possible to suppress the leakage of the liquid from the liquid outflow portion to the outside.

(22) In the sealing member of the above aspect, the opening may be one end of a passage protruding inside the liquid supply part, and the sealing member may not be in contact with the passage. According to the sealing member of this aspect, it is possible to prevent the passage from being blocked by the sealing member.

(23) In the sealing member of the above aspect, the opening may be one end of a passage protruding inside the liquid supply part, and the sealing member may be in contact with the passage. According to the sealing member of this aspect, it is possible to reduce the possibility that liquid intrudes into the passage and the intruded liquid leaks to the outside.

(24) According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sealing member covering a liquid supply port of a liquid supply part protruding outward from a member constituting the cartridge and having the liquid supply port at one end, so that The liquid supply part has a liquid outflow part located inside and at least a part of which is inclined relative to a protruding direction of the liquid supply part. At least a part of the surface of the sealing member on the side facing the liquid outflow portion is inclined corresponding to the inclination. According to the sealing member of this aspect, for example, it is possible to reduce the possibility of the liquid flowing out to the outside of the sealing member by inclination.

Furthermore, the present invention can be realized in various ways, for example, can be realized in the following forms: a cartridge, a sealing member attached to a cartridge, a method of manufacturing a cartridge, a method of manufacturing a sealing member, a liquid ejection system including a cartridge and a liquid ejection device , A liquid supply system comprising a cartridge and a flow tube for communicating liquid to a liquid ejection device.

Description of drawings

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a liquid ejection system 10;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the holder 60 to which the cartridge 20 is mounted;

FIG. 3 is a first perspective view of the appearance of the box 20;

FIG. 4 is a second perspective view of the appearance of the box 20;

Fig. 5 is the front view of box 20;

Figure 6 is a rear view of the cartridge 20;

Figure 7 is a left side view of the box 20;

Figure 8 is a right side view of the box 20;

Figure 9 is a top view of the box 20;

Figure 10 is a bottom view of the box 20;

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the box 20;

FIG. 12 is a front view of the body part 22;

FIG. 13 is a first diagram for explaining the operation of the cartridge 20;

FIG. 14 is a second diagram for explaining the action of the cartridge 20;

FIG. 15 is a third diagram for explaining the operation of the cartridge 20;

Fig. 16 is a partial sectional view of the F9-F9 section of Fig. 9;

17 is a bottom view of the vicinity of the liquid supply part 280;

FIG. 18 is a diagram for further explaining the configuration of the liquid supply unit 280;

Fig. 19 is a perspective view of the cartridge 13 of the second embodiment;

FIG. 20 is a first perspective view of cap 70;

FIG. 21 is a second perspective view of cap 70;

FIG. 22 is a partial sectional view of the cartridge 13;

Fig. 23 is a perspective view of a cartridge main body 20a of the third embodiment;

Fig. 24 is a perspective view of the cartridge 13a of the third embodiment;

Figure 25 is a first perspective view of cap 70a;

Figure 26A is a second perspective view of cap 70a;

Figure 26B is a first perspective view of a cap 70b of the fourth embodiment;

Figure 26C is a second perspective view of the cap 70b of the fourth embodiment;

Figure 26D is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge body 20 with the cap 70b installed;

Figure 26E is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 26D;

FIG. 26F is a first perspective view of a cap 70c as a modified example;

FIG. 26G is a second perspective view of a cap 70c as a modified example;

FIG. 26H is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the liquid supply part 280 of the fifth embodiment;

FIG. 26I is a diagram for explaining the reproduction cassette 20c;

Figure 26J is a perspective view of cap 70g being regenerated;

Fig. 27 is a schematic diagram for explaining the first other embodiment;

Fig. 28 is a schematic diagram for explaining a second other embodiment;

FIG. 29 is a diagram for explaining another third embodiment;

Fig. 30 is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the supply application part 30g;

FIG. 31 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 16 .

detailed description

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following order.

A～H. Various implementation modes:

I. Variations:

A. The first embodiment:

A-1: Composition of liquid injection system:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a liquid ejection system 10 . In FIG. 1 , XYZ axes orthogonal to each other are depicted. The XYZ axes of FIG. 1 also correspond to the XYZ axes of other figures. In the diagrams shown hereafter, the XYZ axes are also labeled as necessary. The liquid ejection system 10 includes a cartridge 20 and a printer 50 as a liquid ejection device. In the liquid ejection system 10 , the cartridge 20 is detachably installed by a user in the holder 60 of the printer 50 .

The cartridge 20 contains ink inside. The ink contained in the cartridge 20 is supplied to the head 54 via a liquid supply unit and a liquid supply tube which will be described later. In the present embodiment, a plurality of cartridges 20 are detachably mounted in the holder 60 of the printer 50 . In the present embodiment, each of six types of cartridges 20 corresponding to inks of six colors (black, yellow, magenta, light magenta, cyan, and light cyan), that is, six cartridges 20 in total, are attached to the Holder 60. Furthermore, the number of cartridges 20 mounted to the holder 60 is not limited to six.

The printer 50 is a small-sized inkjet printer for personal use. The printer 50 includes a control unit 51 and a carriage 52 having the holder 60 in addition to the holder 60 . Carriage 52 includes a head 54 . In the printer 50, ink flows from the cartridge 20 attached to the holder 60 to the head 54 via a liquid supply tube described later. The head 54 includes a discharge mechanism such as a piezoelectric element, and discharges (supplies) ink to a printing medium 90 such as paper or a label. Thus, data such as characters, graphics, and images are printed on the printing medium 90 .

The control unit 51 controls each part of the printer 50 . The carriage 52 of the printer 50 is configured such that the head 54 can move relative to the printing medium 90 . The control unit 51 and the bracket 52 are electrically connected via a flexible cable 53 , and the discharge mechanism of the head 54 operates based on a control signal from the control unit 51 .

In the present embodiment, the holder 60 constitutes the bracket 52 together with the head 54 . In this way, the type of printer 50 in which the cartridge 20 is mounted in the holder 60 on the carriage 52 that moves the head 54 is also referred to as a "mount-on-shelf type". In other embodiments, the stationary holder 60 may be formed at a different location from the carriage 52 , and the ink may be supplied to the head 54 via a tube from the cartridge 20 attached to the holder 60 . Such a type of printer is also referred to as an "off-shelf type".

In this embodiment, the printer 50 includes a main scanning conveyance mechanism and a sub-scan conveyance mechanism for relatively moving the carriage 52 and the printing medium 90 to realize printing on the printing medium 90 . The main scanning transport mechanism of the printer 50 includes a carriage motor 55 and a driving belt 58 . The power of the carriage motor 55 is transmitted to the carriage 52 via the drive belt 58 , thereby causing the carriage 52 to reciprocate in the main scanning direction. The sub-scan transport mechanism of the printer 50 includes a transport motor 56 and a platen roller 59 . The power of the transport motor 56 is transmitted to the platen 59 , whereby the print medium 90 is transported in the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction.

A detection unit 57 for optically detecting the remaining amount of ink in the cartridge 20 is provided at a position outside the printing area of the printer 50 . A light emitting unit and a light receiving unit are provided inside the detection unit 57 . When the cartridge 20 passes above the detection unit 57 with the movement of the carriage 52, the control unit 51 emits light from the light emitting unit of the detection unit 57, and detects the remaining amount of ink in the cartridge 20 by whether or not the light receiving unit of the detection unit 57 receives the light. Status (specifically, the presence or absence of ink).

In the present embodiment, in the state of use of the liquid ejection system 10 (also referred to as "use posture"), the axis along the sub-scanning direction (front-back direction) that conveys the printing medium 90 is defined as the X-axis, and the axis along the The axis in the main scanning direction (horizontal direction) that reciprocates the carriage 52 is referred to as the Y axis, and the axis along the gravitational direction (vertical direction) is referred to as the Z axis. In addition, the so-called state of use of the liquid ejection system 10 is the state of the liquid ejection system 10 installed on a horizontal plane, and in this embodiment, the horizontal plane is a plane parallel to the X-axis and the Y-axis (XY plane). .

In this embodiment, the sub-scanning direction (front direction) is defined as +X-axis positive direction, the opposite direction (rear direction) is defined as -X-axis direction, and the direction (upward direction) from below to upward in the gravitational direction is defined as ) is defined as the +Z-axis direction, and the opposite direction (downward direction) is defined as the -Z-axis direction. In this embodiment, the direction from the right side to the left side of the liquid ejection system 10 is referred to as the +Y axis direction (left direction), and the opposite direction is referred to as the -Y axis direction (right direction). In the present embodiment, the arrangement direction of the plurality of cartridges 20 mounted in the holder 60 is a direction along the Y-axis (the left-right direction is also simply referred to as “Y-axis direction”). In addition, the direction along the X-axis (front-rear direction) is also referred to as "X-axis direction", and the direction along the Z-axis (up-down direction) is also referred to as "Z-axis direction".

A-2. Composition of the retainer 60:

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the holder 60 to which the cartridge 20 is mounted. The holder 60 has five wall portions 601 , 603 , 604 , 605 , 606 . The four wall portions 603 , 604 , 605 , and 606 extend in the +Z-axis direction from the peripheral portion of the wall portion 601 to form a concave portion. This concave portion is a cartridge storage chamber 602 (also referred to as “cartridge mounting portion 602 ”) that accommodates the cartridge 20 . In addition, the cartridge housing chamber 602 is divided by partition walls 607 into a plurality of slots (installation spaces) capable of receiving the respective cartridges 20 . Such a partition wall 607 functions as a guide when the cartridge 20 is inserted into the slot, but it can also be omitted. In addition, in order to optically detect the ink remaining state by the detection unit 57 , a through hole 636 is formed in the wall portion 601 so that light can pass therethrough.

The holder 60 includes a liquid supply tube 640 , a handle 64 , and a contact mechanism 62 for each slot. One side (+Z-axis direction side; upper surface) of each slot is opened, and the cartridge 20 can be attached to and detached from the holder 60 via the one side (upper surface) of the opening.

The liquid supply tube 640 forms a flow path for the ink of the head 54 to flow through the cartridge 20 . The liquid supply tube 640 is connected to the liquid supply portion of the cartridge 20 in a state in which the cartridge 20 is mounted on the printer 50 (attached state). An elastic member 648 is provided around the liquid supply pipe 640 . The elastic member 648 seals the periphery of the liquid supply part of the cartridge 20 in the mounted state. This prevents ink from leaking to the surroundings from the liquid supply portion of the cartridge 20 .

The handle 64 is used when loading and unloading the cartridge 20 . In addition, the handle 64 locks the cartridge 20 in a state where the cartridge 20 is attached to the holder 60 (attached state).

The contact mechanism 62 is electrically connected to a circuit board described later of the cartridge 20 in the mounted state. In addition, the contact mechanism 62 is electrically connected to the control unit 51 . In this way, various information (ink color and ink remaining state of the cartridge 20 ) are communicated between the cartridge 20 and the printer 50 .

A-3. Appearance composition of box 20:

FIG. 3 is a first external perspective view of the cartridge 20 . FIG. 4 is a second external perspective view of the cartridge 20 . FIG. 5 is a front view of the cartridge 20 . FIG. 6 is a rear view of the cartridge 20 . FIG. 7 is a left side view of the cartridge 20 . FIG. 8 is a right side view of the cartridge 20 . FIG. 9 is a plan view of the cartridge 20 . FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the cartridge 20 . The cartridge 20 of this embodiment is a so-called semi-hermetic type cartridge that intermittently introduces outside air into the liquid container 200 as the ink is consumed. In addition, the internal structure of the case 20 is mentioned later.

As shown in FIG. 3 , the cartridge 20 includes: a liquid storage unit 200 for containing ink inside; and a liquid supply unit 280 for circulating the ink in the liquid storage unit 200 to the printer 50 outside.

As shown in FIGS. 3 to 10 , the case 20 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped appearance. The case 20 has six sides 201-206. The six surfaces 201 to 206 constitute the outer surface (casing) of the case 20 . The six surfaces are composed of a first surface 201 , a second surface 202 , a third surface 203 , a fourth surface 204 , a fifth surface 205 , and a sixth surface 206 . Each of the surfaces 201 to 206 is a substantially flat surface. The term "approximately flat" includes the case where the entire surface is completely flat and the case where a part of the surface has unevenness. That is, the case where the surface or wall constituting the casing of the cartridge 20 can be grasped even if a part of the surface has some irregularities. The top-view shapes of the first to sixth surfaces 201 to 206 are all rectangular.

The first surface 201 and the fourth surface 204 are opposite to each other. The second surface 202 and the third surface 203 are opposed to each other. The fifth surface 205 and the sixth surface 206 are opposed to each other. Here, the direction in which the first surface 201 and the fourth surface 204 face each other is the Z-axis direction (direction along the first direction). The direction in which the second surface 202 and the third surface 203 face each other is the X-axis direction. The direction in which the fifth surface 205 and the sixth surface 206 face each other is the Y-axis direction. In the present embodiment, the first surface 201 constitutes the bottom surface in the mounted state of the cartridge 20 . Here, as shown in FIG. 10 , the end (side) on the second surface 202 side of the first surface 201 is also referred to as a first end 201t. In addition, the edge part (side) by the side of the 3rd surface 203 in the 1st surface 201 is also called 2nd end part 201s. In addition, in the mounted state of the cartridge 20 , the −Z axis direction (first direction) is the vertically downward direction.

The second surface 202 intersects the first surface 201 . The third surface 203 intersects the first surface 201 . The fourth face 204 intersects the second face 202 and the third face 203 . The fifth surface 205 intersects the first to fourth surfaces 201 to 204 . The sixth surface 206 intersects the first to fourth surfaces 204 . Here, the two surfaces "intersect" means any of a state in which the two surfaces cross each other and actually intersects, a state in which an extended surface of one surface intersects the other surface, and a state in which mutual extended surfaces intersect.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the liquid supply part 280 protrudes from the first surface 201 . In detail, the liquid supply part 280 extends from the first surface 201 in the −Z axis direction (first direction). The liquid supply unit 280 is connected to the printer 50 . As shown in FIG. 4 , the liquid supply portion 280 communicates with the liquid storage portion 200 by having a liquid communication port 277 at one end portion 37 b thereof, and an opening is formed at the other end portion 37 a. Here, the other end portion 37a is located on the −Z axis direction side (first direction side) with respect to the one end portion 37b. In addition, the liquid supply unit 280 has a flow path through which ink flows in a direction along the first direction (Z-axis direction). Next, the above-mentioned liquid supply unit 280 will be described from another point of view. That is, the liquid supply portion 280 protrudes outward from a member (first surface) constituting the cartridge 20 . In addition, the other end portion 37 a of the liquid supply portion 280 has an opening 288 . The protruding direction of the liquid supply part 280 is the -Z axis direction. The liquid supply tube 640 of the printer 50 is inserted into the liquid supply part 280 through the opening 288 . As shown in FIG. 3 , an air introduction port 290 for introducing air into the inside of the cartridge 20 is formed on the fifth surface 205 .

As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 10, in the liquid supply part 280, there are formed: a liquid outflow part 31 through which the ink flows toward the liquid supply tube 640 of the printer 50, and an opening for communicating the inside and the outside of the liquid supply part 280. Communication port 32. That is, the communication port 32 is an opening for connecting the outside and the inside of the liquid supply part 280 . The liquid outflow portion 31 is configured to be able to hold ink. In the installed state, the liquid supply pipe 640 ( FIG. 2 ) is inserted into the liquid supply part 280 from the opening 288 as the liquid supply port to come into contact with the liquid outflow part 31 , thereby enabling the flow from the liquid supply part 280 to the liquid supply pipe 640 Circulation ink. Here, in the unused state before the cartridge 20 is used by the printer 50 , the flow path from the inside of the liquid storage portion 200 to the liquid outflow portion 31 is filled with ink. In addition, the cartridge 20 has a communication path that communicates the inside and the outside of the liquid supply part 280 . One end of the communication path is the communication port 32, and the other end is the air inlet 290 formed on the fifth surface 205 (FIG. 3). In addition, the details of this communication path will be described later. The liquid outflow portion 31 is in contact with the liquid supply tube 640 through which ink flows to the head 54 in the mounted state.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 10 , the first surface 201 is configured such that a prism unit 270 as a first component forms a part of the first surface 201 . The prism unit 270 includes a so-called rectangular prism. The rectangular prism of the prism unit 270 is located inside the liquid container 200 . As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6 and 10, the prism unit 270 includes a transmission surface 275 as a transmission portion forming a part of the first surface 201, and two surfaces (reflection surfaces) 271 (reflection surfaces) 271 (Fig. 5). The transmission surface 275 transmits the light emitted from the detection unit 57 ( FIG. 1 ). In addition, the transmission surface 275 transmits the light reflected by the surface 271 and directed toward the detection unit 57 . As shown in FIG. 10 , the transmission surface 275 is arranged on the side closer to the first end portion 201 t than the second end portion 201 s of the first surface 201 . On the other hand, the liquid supply part 280 is arranged on the side closer to the second end part 201s than the first end part 201t in the first surface 201 . Specifically, in order to keep the transmission surface 275 and the liquid supply part 280 as far away as possible, the transmission surface 275 is close to the first end part 201t, and the liquid supply part 280 is close to the second end part 201s.

In addition, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 10 , a pair of first container locking portions 331 are provided on the first surface 201 . The pair of first container locking portions 331 are arranged at a predetermined interval in the Y-axis direction. Thereby, the container receiving part 333 which is a space defined by the pair of first container locking parts 331 is formed between the pair of first container locking parts 331 . The pair of first container locking portion 331 and container receiving portion 333 are used to position the cap relative to the opening 288 when the cap for plugging the opening 288 is mounted on the cartridge 20 . The details are described in the second embodiment. Furthermore, in the case of the type in which the cap is not attached, the pair of first container locking portion 331 and container receiving portion 333 can be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 4 , a protrusion-shaped first locking portion 210 is formed on the second surface 202 . The first locking portion 210 is locked to the handle 64 in the installed state ( FIG. 2 ). As shown in FIG. 3 , a protrusion-shaped second locking portion 221 is formed on the third surface 203 . In the installed state, the second locking portion 221 is inserted into a through hole (not shown) formed on the wall portion 604 ( FIG. 2 ) and locked.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7 , a pair of recesses 207 are provided on the third surface 203 . Specifically, a pair of recessed portions 203 are provided on the third surface 203 at a position close to the end portion on the first surface 201 side. The pair of recesses 207 are arranged side by side in the Y-axis direction. The pair of recesses 207 are used for attaching the cap to the case 20 when the cap for blocking the opening 288 is attached to the case 20 . The details are described in the second embodiment. Here, as shown in FIG. 7 , the plane CX is located between the pair of recesses 207 . The plane CX is a plane that passes through the center C ( FIG. 10 ) in the Y-axis direction (width direction) of the opening 288 of the liquid supply part 280 and is parallel to the X-axis and the Z-axis. In addition, the pair of recesses 207 can be omitted in the type of cartridge without the mounting cap.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the circuit board 15 is provided on the connection surface 208 connecting the first surface 201 and the second surface 202 . On the surface of the circuit board 15, a plurality of terminals are formed which are in contact with the contact mechanism 62 (FIG. 2) in the mounted state. In addition, on the back surface of the circuit board 15, a storage device for storing various information of the cartridge 20 (the state of the remaining amount of ink, the color of the ink, etc.) is provided.

A-4. Internal composition of box 20:

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the cartridge 20 . FIG. 12 is a front view of the main body member 22 . In addition, FIG. 12 illustrates the surface 271 of the prism unit 270 with broken lines. In addition, FIG. 12 shows the flow of the ink in the liquid container 200 to the outside through the liquid supply part 280 by arrows. As shown in FIG. 11 , the cartridge 20 includes a main body part 22 and a cover part 24 . The main body part 22 and the cover part 24 form the outer surface (casing) of the cartridge 20 . In addition, the cartridge 20 includes a valve mechanism 40 , a coil spring 294 as an urging member, a pressure receiving plate 293 , and a sheet member (film member) 291 .

The body member 22 and the cover member 24 are formed of synthetic resin such as polypropylene. In addition, the sheet member 291 is formed of a synthetic resin (for example, a material containing nylon and polypropylene), and has flexibility. That is, the sheet member 291 is configured to be deformable by external force.

The sheet member 291 is formed with vent holes 292 . As a result, the cartridge 20 can take in air into the liquid container 200 through the air inlet 290 , the air vent 292 , and the through hole 47 (described later).

The main body part 22 is a part for forming the liquid storage part 200 and the liquid supply part 280 . The main body part 22 has a concave shape and is opened on one side. The sheet member 291 is attached to the main body member 22 so as to cover an opening on one side of the main body member 22 . In detail, as shown in FIG. 12 , the sheet member 291 is airtightly attached to the end surface 22t forming the opening of the main body member 22 and the end surface 22p of the rib in the liquid container 200 . Thus, the liquid container 200 for containing ink is formed. That is, a part of the wall portion of the liquid container 200 that defines the internal space is formed by the deformable sheet member 291 . Thus, the volume of the liquid container 200 can be changed. In addition, in FIG. 12 , for easy understanding, the portion to which the sheet member 291 is attached is shown by cross-hatching, and the portion forming the liquid container 200 is shown by single-hatching.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 12 , the cover member 24 is attached by heat welding or the like to an area outside the area where the sheet member 291 is pasted of the end surface on the +Y-axis direction side of the main body member 22 . Also, a first communication chamber 242 that is a part of a communication path that communicates the inside and outside of the liquid supply part 280 is formed on the outside of the body part 22 compared to the area where the liquid storage part 200 is formed. .

A space is formed between the sheet member 291 and the cover member 24 . This space forms part of a communication path that communicates the inside and outside of the liquid supply part 280 .

The pressure receiving plate 293 is formed of synthetic resin such as polypropylene. The pressure receiving plate 293 is arranged to be in contact with the sheet member 291 . The coil spring 294 is arranged in the liquid container 200 . Specifically, the coil spring 294 is in contact with the pressure receiving plate 293 and the surface (opposing surface) facing the pressure receiving plate 293 among the surfaces of the main body member 22 . The coil spring 294 urges the pressure receiving plate 293 in a direction to expand the volume of the liquid container 200 . The coil spring 294 expands and contracts (moves) in the Y-axis direction.

The valve mechanism 40 is a mechanism for intermittently introducing air into the liquid container 200 as the ink in the liquid container 200 is consumed. As shown in FIG. 11 , the valve mechanism 40 includes a spring member 42 , a stem valve 44 , and a cover valve 46 . The cover valve 46 is received in the corner portion 209 ( FIG. 12 ) of the main body part 22 where the third face 203 and the fourth face 204 meet, and is mounted on the main body part 22 . The cover valve 46 is formed of synthetic resin such as polypropylene. The cover valve 46 has a concave shape, and the sheet member 291 is airtightly attached to the end surface 41 forming the opening. The recessed portion of the cover valve 46 communicates with the vent port 292 . In addition, a through hole 47 penetrating to the rear side of the cover valve 46 is formed at the bottom of the recessed portion of the cover valve 46 .

The stem valve 44 is pressed against the cover valve 46 by the spring member 42 and blocks the through hole 47 . The stem valve 44 has a portion abutted by the displacement of the pressure receiving plate 293 . The stem valve 44 can be formed of synthetic resin such as polypropylene, for example. In addition, the stem valve 44 can be formed by a two-color mold using elastic members such as elastomers and synthetic resins such as polypropylene.

The liquid supply part 280 communicates with the liquid storage part 200 . As shown in FIG. 11 , the liquid supply unit 280 includes a supply member 30 inside. The supply member 30 includes a foam (porous member) 34 and a sheet member (filter member) 36 . The foam 34 and the sheet member 36 are arranged in this order from the one end portion 37b of the liquid supply portion 280 toward the other end portion 37a. The foam 34 and the sheet member 36 are formed of synthetic resin such as polyethylene terephthalate, for example. The sheet member 36 is in contact with the liquid supply tube 640 ( FIG. 2 ) in the mounted state, and allows ink to flow toward the printer 50 side. That is, the sheet member 36 forms the liquid outflow portion 31 .

A-5. Communication path and action of box 20:

FIG. 13 is a first diagram for explaining the operation of the cartridge 20 . FIG. 14 is a second diagram for explaining the operation of the cartridge 20 . FIG. 15 is a third diagram for explaining the operation of the cartridge 20 . In addition, FIGS. 13 to 15 are schematic diagrams for explaining the state of the inside of the cartridge 20 easily.

Before describing the operation of the cartridge 20, the communication path 310 that communicates the inside and the outside of the liquid supply unit 280 will be described. One end of the communication path 310 is the communication port 32 , and the other end is the air introduction port 290 . The communication path 310 sequentially includes the one end side flow path 33 , the first communication chamber 242 , and the air chamber 220 in the middle of the flow direction of the fluid from the communication port 32 to the air introduction port 290 . The one-end side channel 33 is a channel formed in the liquid supply part 280 . The air chamber 220 is a space between the cover member 24 and the sheet member 291 .

In this manner, the inclusion of the communication path 310 in the cartridge 20 can prevent the pressure inside the liquid supply part 280 (specifically, the part of the liquid supply part 280 including the opening 288 where air exists) from being extremely different from the external pressure.

For example, when the cartridge 20 is mounted on the printer 50 (during the mounting operation), the elastic member 648 ( FIG. 2 ) of the holder 60 seals the periphery of the opening 288 of the liquid supply part 280 . Here, when the periphery of opening 288 is sealed, a part of elastic member 648 bites into liquid supply part 280 , thereby reducing the volume in liquid supply part 280 and increasing the pressure in liquid supply part 280 . Generally, the flow path from the liquid storage portion 200 to the liquid outflow portion 31 has a portion with high flow path resistance in order to prevent ink from leaking from the liquid outflow portion 31 to the outside. In this embodiment, for example, the sheet member 36 and the foam 34 which can hold liquid by forming a liquid meniscus increase the flow path resistance. Therefore, immediately after the opening 288 is sealed and the volume in the liquid supply part 280 is reduced, the reduced amount of air cannot sufficiently flow through the liquid storage part 200 . However, it is possible to discharge a reduced amount of air to the outside through the communication path 310 to maintain the pressure of the outside and the inside of the liquid supply part 280 substantially constant.

Assuming that the communication path 310 is not provided in the cartridge 20 , for example, compressed air in the liquid supply unit 280 gradually flows into the liquid storage unit 200 after the cartridge 20 is mounted. As a result, unexpected air intrudes into the liquid storage part 200, and there is a possibility that the inside of the liquid storage part 200 cannot be maintained in an appropriate pressure range. In addition, for example, when the air in the liquid supply part 280 flows into the liquid storage part 200 until the rising pressure in the liquid supply part 280 and the pressure in the liquid storage part 200 equalize, the pressure in the liquid storage part 200 is equal to that before the air flows in. The state of the country has risen compared to that. When the user detaches the cartridge 20 from the holder 60 in this state, the pressure in the liquid supply part 280 becomes atmospheric pressure. That is, the pressure inside the liquid supply part 280 decreases, and the ink leaks from the high-pressure liquid storage part 200 to the outside through the supply member 30 .

In addition, for example, when the cartridge 20 is not in use, a sealing member (film or cap) for blocking the opening 288 may be attached to the opening 288 in order to prevent ink from leaking to the outside. In addition, in the unused state of the cartridge 20, there is a case where the cartridge 20 is housed in a packaging bag decompressed to a pressure lower than atmospheric pressure. When the cartridge 20 is housed in the packaging bag and the inside of the packaging bag is depressurized with the sealing member attached, the air chamber 220 is also depressurized. Then, the absolute value of the negative pressure in the liquid container 200 becomes larger (that is, becomes more negative pressure). On the other hand, since the inside of the liquid supply part 280 is a space where the circulation of air with the outside is suppressed, the atmospheric pressure is maintained immediately after the decompression packaging. As a result, the pressures in the liquid supply part 280 and the liquid storage part 200 become unbalanced, and the air gradually flows from the liquid supply part 280 into the liquid storage part 200 . Also, when the cartridge 20 is taken out of the decompression package, the air chamber 220 returns to atmospheric pressure, and the absolute value of the negative pressure in the liquid container 200 also decreases (becomes to the originally set negative pressure). On the other hand, the inside of the liquid supply unit 280 is maintained in a depressurized state. As a result, ink may leak from the liquid storage portion 200 to the liquid supply portion 280 side.

Next, the operation of the cartridge 20 will be described. As shown in FIG. 13 , the stem valve 44 includes a valve portion 43 for closing the through hole 47 and a stem portion 49 for opening and closing the valve portion 43 . In the unused state (new product state) of the cartridge 20, the liquid container 200 is filled with ink. In this state, the valve portion 43 of the lever valve 44 is biased by the spring member 42 to block the through hole 47 . In addition, the coil spring 294 urges the pressure receiving plate 293 in a direction (+Y-axis direction) to expand the volume of the liquid container 200 . As a result, the pressure in the liquid container 200 is maintained at a pressure (negative pressure) lower than atmospheric pressure.

As shown in FIG. 14 , when the ink in the liquid container 200 is consumed and the pressure receiving plate 293 approaches the sixth surface 206 side, the pressure receiving plate 293 pushes the rod portion 49 to the sixth surface 206 side. Thereby, the valve part 43 is separated from the through hole 47, and the external air and the liquid storage part 200 are temporarily communicated. That is, the lever valve 44 is in an open state. In addition, external air flows into the liquid container 200 through the air inlet 290 , the air chamber 220 , the vent 292 , and the through hole 47 . Thus, as shown in FIG. 15 , the volume of the liquid container 200 becomes larger by the amount of air introduced. At the same time, the negative pressure inside the liquid container 200 becomes slightly smaller (closer to atmospheric pressure). Then, as shown in FIG. 15 , when a certain amount of air is introduced into the liquid container 200 , the pressure receiving plate 293 is separated from the rod portion 49 . As a result, the valve portion 43 closes the through hole 47 again. That is, the lever valve 44 is in a closed state. In this way, when the negative pressure in the liquid storage unit 200 increases due to the consumption of ink in the liquid storage unit 200, the lever valve 44 is temporarily opened, thereby maintaining the pressure in the liquid storage unit 200 at an appropriate pressure. within range.

A-6. Detailed configuration of the liquid supply unit 280:

FIG. 16 is a partial sectional view of the F9-F9 section of FIG. 9 . FIG. 16 shows a cross section near the liquid supply part 280 . FIG. 17 is a bottom view of the liquid supply portion 280 and its vicinity. As shown in FIG. 16 , the liquid supply part 280 has a supply part main body 285 , a liquid outflow part 31 , one end side flow path 33 , and an inner wall 35 .

The supply part main body 285 is a part of the main body part 22 . The supply part main body 285 defines an internal flow path (a flow path through which ink flows) of the liquid supply part 280 . The liquid outflow portion 31 is formed by attaching the sheet member 36 to the supply portion main body 285 . Specifically, the liquid outflow portion 31 is formed as follows. That is, in the liquid supply part 280, in the flow path from the liquid communication port 277 formed in the one end portion 37b to the opening 288 formed in the other end portion 37a, the flow path 38 (the first flow path) located on the side of the one end portion 37b is aligned. The sheet member 36 is arranged so as to divide the channel 38) and the channel 39 (second channel 39) located on the other end portion 37a side. The sheet member 36 is attached to the supply part main body 285 by welding or the like. In detail, the sheet member 36 is attached to a surface 286 parallel to a plane (XY plane) perpendicular to the first direction (−Z axis direction) among the wall surfaces forming the inside of the supply part main body 285 . With such a configuration, the sheet member 36 functions as the liquid outflow portion 31 . Here, the first channel 38 is filled with ink. The ink in the first channel 38 is continuous with the ink in the liquid container 200 . The sheet member 36 is a porous member. The sheet member 36 can hold ink by forming a meniscus. Air exists in the second flow path 39 . Here, regarding the direction (Z-axis direction) along the first direction (-Z-axis direction), the side of one end portion 37b is defined as the upstream side, and the side of the other end portion 37a is defined as the downstream side. The liquid outflow portion 31 defines a space containing ink (first flow path 38 ) and a space containing air (second flow path 39 ) in the flow path in the liquid supply portion 280 so that ink can flow therethrough. As a result, the liquid outflow unit 31 causes the ink to flow out to the printer 50 . The first flow path 38 includes a liquid communication port 277 ( FIG. 16 ) through which the ink of the liquid storage portion 200 flows into the liquid supply portion 280 at the upstream end portion 37 b. The second flow path 39 includes an opening 288 at the downstream end portion 37a. The opening 288 opens toward the outside.

As shown in FIG. 17 , when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the first direction (−Z axis direction), the communication port 32 and the liquid outflow portion 31 are arranged at different positions. Specifically, the communication port 32 is located closer to the third surface 203 than the liquid outflow portion 31 . As shown in FIG. 16 , in the liquid supply part 280 , the one-end side flow path 33 including the communication port 32 in the communication path 310 is formed. The one-end side flow path 33 extends upward from the communication port 32 . Specifically, the one-end side flow path 33 extends from the communication port 32 in a direction (+Z-axis direction) opposite to the first direction (-Z-axis direction). A portion of the one-end flow path 33 on the −Z-axis direction side (a portion including the inner wall 35 as a wall) protrudes inside the liquid supply portion 280 . This protruding portion (hereinafter also referred to as "path 33") in the internal flow path corresponds to the "protruding path" described in the claims.

As shown in FIG. 16 , the communication port 32 is one end of a passage protruding toward the opening 288 in the liquid supply portion 280 . The passage 33 is a part of the one-end side flow passage 33 , and is a part on the -Z axis direction side (ink outflow direction side). The passage 33 protrudes from the inner wall surface of the liquid supply part 280 . In other words, the passage 33 protrudes toward the space in the liquid supply part 280 toward the first direction (ink outflow direction). The passage 33 has a communication port forming member 32t protruding from the inner wall surface of the liquid supply part 280 as an outer peripheral wall. The communication port forming member 32t protrudes from a surface 286 which is a lower end surface of the supply part main body 285 . Surface 286 is also the surface that surrounds foam 34 on the inside. In other words, a part of the ink flow path of the liquid supply unit 280 is formed inside the surface 286 . The communication port forming member 32t forms the communication port 32 at one end thereof. That is, the communication port 32 that is an opening is one end of the passage 33 (portion on the −Z-axis direction side of the one-end side flow path 33 ) protruding into the space forming the liquid supply part 280 . In addition, the communication port forming member 32t forms a part of the one end side flow path 33 . The communication port forming member 32t is integrally formed with the supply part main body 285 . The outer peripheral wall of the communication port forming member 32 t forms an inner wall 35 for blocking the flow of ink from the liquid outflow part 31 to the communication port 32 along the wall surface of the liquid supply part 280 . That is, in this embodiment, the inner wall 35 is located between the liquid outflow part 31 and the communication port 32 on the wall surface of the supply part main body 285 .

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 , the communication port 32 is arranged such that the end forming the side surface of the liquid supply part 280 is spaced apart from the peripheral wall 281 (the side surface 281 of the liquid supply part 280 ) defining the opening 288 . In other words, the communication port 32 is not in contact with the side surface 281 of the liquid supply part 280 .

FIG. 18 is a diagram for further explaining the configuration of the liquid supply unit 280 . FIG. 18 is a diagram schematically showing the vicinity of the communication port 32 of the liquid supply unit 280 . The detailed configuration of the liquid supply unit 280 will be further described with reference to FIG. 18 . The sheet member 36 has a mounting portion 362 , a sheet central portion 368 as a central portion, and a non-mounting portion 364 . The attachment portion 362 is a portion of the supply portion main body 285 that is attached to the surface 286 . The mounting portion 362 is airtightly mounted so that ink does not leak from the first flow path 38 to the second flow path 39 side. The sheet central portion 368 is a portion of the sheet member 36 surrounded by the mounting portion 362 . That is, the sheet central portion 368 is a portion located inside the mounting portion 362 . The sheet central portion 368 divides the first flow path 38 and the second flow path 39 . In addition, the sheet central portion 368 allows the ink in the first flow path 38 to flow through the second flow path 39 . The sheet central portion 368 has a first central portion 368v perpendicular to the first direction (−Z axis direction), and an inclined portion 368t inclined relative to the first direction. The inclined portion 368t is connected to the mounting portion 362 and the first central portion 368v. The sheet central portion 368 has a shape that protrudes downward (-Z axis direction side). That is, the inclined portion 368t is provided so that the portion closer to the first central portion 368v from the mounting portion 362 is located on the lower side (the −Z axis direction side). The non-attachment portion 364 is a portion located outside the attachment portion 362 and not attached to the supply portion main body 285 .

As shown in FIG. 18 , the non-attachment portion 364 , the communication port 32 , the other end portion 37 a, and the sheet member 36 are located on the same side (the −Z axis direction side) with respect to the surface 286 . With the surface 286 as a reference plane, the height of the non-mounting portion 364 is H1, the height of the communication port 32 is H2, and the height of the sheet member 36 is H4. In addition, height H1, H2, H4 is the height of the part which exists in the highest position among each part. In this case, the liquid supply unit 280 satisfies the relationship of H1<H2. That is, the non-attachment portion 364 is located above the communication port 32 . Here, the entire non-installation portion 364 does not need to be located above the communication port 32 , as long as the first peripheral portion 364 a of the non-installation portion 364 that is closest to the communication port 32 is located above the communication port 32 . side. In addition, the non-mounting portion 364 corresponds to the peripheral portion 364 of the liquid outflow portion 31 .

In addition, the liquid supply unit 280 satisfies the relationship of H4>H2. That is, the communication port 32 is located below the liquid outflow part 31 .

A-7. Effect:

In the cartridge 20 of the above embodiment, the communication port 32 does not contact the side surface 281 of the liquid supply part 280 ( FIG. 15 ). Accordingly, even when the ink flows along the side surface 281 , the possibility that the ink flowing along the side surface 281 reaches the communication port 32 can be reduced. Thereby, the possibility of ink leaking to the outside through the communication port 32 can be reduced.

In addition, the communication port 32 is one end of a passage 33 protruding into a space forming the liquid supply part 280 ( FIG. 15 ). As a result, even when ink flows along the inner surface of liquid supply part 280 , communication port forming member 32 t (inner wall 35 ) forming passage 33 acts as an obstacle wall, and the possibility of ink reaching communication port 32 can be reduced. Thereby, the possibility of ink leaking to the outside through the communication port 32 can be reduced.

In addition, the communication port 32 is located on the downstream side of the first peripheral edge portion 364a in the ink outflow direction (−Z axis direction) ( FIG. 18 ). Thereby, the possibility of ink reaching the communication port 32 can be further reduced. For example, in a state of the cartridge 20 in which the downstream side is higher than the upstream side, the communication port 32 is positioned higher than the first peripheral portion 364a. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the ink leaked from the first peripheral portion 364 a or the vicinity of the first peripheral portion 364 a reaches the communication port 32 .

In addition, the liquid supply part 280 and the passage 33 are integrally formed. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility of occurrence of a gap for communicating the inside of the liquid supply part 280 with the passage 33 through a position other than the communication port 32 due to damage or the like. Thereby, the possibility of ink flowing into the passage 33 through the gap can be reduced.

In addition, the communication port 32 is located upstream of the liquid outflow portion 31 with respect to the ink outflow direction (−Z axis direction) ( FIG. 18 ). The possibility that the communication port 32 and the communication port forming member 32 t forming the communication port 32 collide with other members located near the liquid outflow portion 31 can be reduced. For example, there is a printer 50 as another component.

A-8. Other effects:

The cartridge 20 of the above-described embodiment has the inner wall 35 ( FIG. 16 ) located between the communication port 32 and the liquid outflow portion 31 . Accordingly, even when the ink in the liquid container 200 leaks from the liquid outflow portion 31 to the outside due to external force applied to the cartridge 20 during transportation, the flow of the ink toward the communication port 32 can be suppressed by the inner wall 35 . Thereby, the possibility that the ink leaked from the liquid outflow part 31 reaches the communication port 32 can be reduced.

In addition, the cartridge 20 has a communication port 32 formed at one end thereof, and an inner wall 35 is formed inside by a communication port forming member 32t forming a part of the communication path 310 ( FIG. 16 ). Thereby, a part of the communication path 310 including the communication port 32 can be formed, and the inner wall 35 can also be formed.

In addition, in the cartridge 20 , the one-end flow path 33 extends upward (+Z-axis direction side) from the communication port 32 ( FIG. 18 ). On the other hand, the first peripheral edge portion 364a is located on the upper side (+Z-axis direction side) than the communication port 32 ( FIG. 18 ). Thus, even when the ink in the liquid container 200 leaks from the liquid outflow portion 31 to the outside (for example, the second flow path 39 ), the possibility of the leaked ink flowing into the communication path 310 through the communication port 32 can be further reduced. sex. For example, when the case 20 is in a state in which the one end 37b side is vertically upper and the other end 37a is vertically lower (the first state, the same state as the mounted state), even if Even when the ink has reached the communication port 32 , the flow of the ink to the one-end side flow path 33 can be suppressed by gravity. In addition, when the cartridge 20 is in the second state vertically opposite to the first state, the communication port 32 is located above the first peripheral portion 364a in the vertical direction ( FIG. 18 ). Therefore, in the second state, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the ink leaked from the liquid outflow portion 31 reaches the communication port 32 and flows into the communication path 310 .

In addition, the communication port 32 is positioned on the upper side (+Z-axis direction side) than the liquid outflow portion 31 ( FIG. 18 ). That is, the communication port 32 is located on the inner side (on the one end portion 37 b side) of the liquid supply portion 280 than the liquid outflow portion 31 . Accordingly, the communication port 32 is located at a position separated from the opening 288 than the liquid outflow portion 31 . Therefore, the possibility that the communication port forming member 32t forming the communication port 32 collides with other members can be reduced. For example, when the cartridge 20 is attached to the holder 60 , it is possible to prevent the elastic member 648 of the holder 60 from coming into contact with the communication port 32 , thereby preventing the communication port 32 from being blocked. Therefore, when the cartridge 20 is attached to the holder 60 , the air in the liquid supply part 280 can be discharged to the outside through the communication port 32 , so that the pressure in the liquid supply part 280 can be suppressed from increasing.

In addition, in the case 20, the supply part main body 285 and the inner wall 35 are integrally formed. Thereby, compared with the case where the supply part main body 285 and the inner wall 35 are formed by separate members, the possibility of a gap being generated between the supply part main body 285 and the inner wall 35 due to damage or the like can be reduced. Accordingly, the flow of ink from the liquid outflow portion 31 toward the communication port 32 can be more reliably suppressed by the inner wall 35 .

In addition, the communication port 32 is located at a position not in contact with the peripheral wall 281 but spaced apart ( FIG. 16 , FIG. 18 ). Accordingly, even when the ink flows along the peripheral wall 281 , the possibility that the ink flowing along the peripheral wall 281 reaches the communication port 32 can be reduced.

In addition, the liquid outflow portion 31 is formed by attaching the sheet member 36 to the supply portion main body 285 . Thereby, the liquid outflow part 31 which can hold ink can be formed easily. In addition, the sheet member 36 has a non-attachment portion 364 . Thereby, ink can be held by the non-mounting portion 364 . Therefore, the possibility of ink reaching the communication port 32 can be reduced.

In addition, the permeable surface 275 is arranged on the side of the first surface 201 that is closer to the first end 201t than the second end 201s, and the liquid supply part 280 is arranged on the side of the first surface 201 that is closer to the first end 201s. The side closer to the second end portion 201s than the portion 201t ( FIG. 10 ). Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the ink flowing out from the liquid supply part 280 adheres to the transmission surface 275 . Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in detection accuracy when the prism unit 270 is used to optically detect the remaining liquid state (the presence or absence of the remaining liquid or the remaining liquid).

B. The second embodiment:

B-1. Composition of box 13:

Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a cartridge 13 of the second embodiment. The cartridge 13 of the second embodiment includes a cartridge main body 20 and a cap 70 . The cartridge main body 20 of the second embodiment has the same configuration as the cartridge 20 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the cap 70 will be described below.

The cap 70 is detachably attached to the cartridge main body 20 so as to close the opening 288 of the liquid supply part 280 . The cap 70 includes a cap body 74 for closing the opening 288 , and a cap handle 72 as a handle for removing the cap 70 from the case body 20 . When attaching the cartridge main body 20 to the holder 60 , the user takes off the cap handle 72 and detaches it from the cartridge main body 20 . As shown in FIG. 19 , the cap handle 72 protrudes outward from the outer surface of the cartridge body 20 . Specifically, the cap handle 72 protrudes outward (to the side in the −X-axis direction) of the third surface 203 . Here, the cap handle 72 and the communication port 32 are located on the same side (the −X-axis direction side) with respect to the liquid outflow portion 31 .

FIG. 20 is a first perspective view of the cap 70 . FIG. 21 is a second perspective view of the cap 70 . FIG. 22 is a partial sectional view of the cartridge 13 . FIG. 22 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 16 of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 , the cap main body 74 includes a concave base portion 75 and a first cap member 79 that is disposed in the concave portion of the base portion 75 and closely contacts the other end portion 37 a to block the opening 288 . . The first cap member 79 is formed of an elastic body or the like and has elasticity. In addition, the base portion 75 and the cap handle 72 are formed of synthetic resin such as polypropylene.

The cap 70 includes a pair of first protrusions 71b, an insertion piece 71a, and a pair of second protrusions 71c. Moreover, a pair of 1st protrusion part 71b is arrange|positioned at intervals in the Y-axis direction. The insertion piece 71a is arranged between the pair of first protrusions 71b. The insertion piece 71a has a protrusion shape. The pair of first protrusions 71b are locked by the first container locking portion 331 . Specifically, a part of the pair of first protrusions 71b enters the space forming the first container locking portion 331 ( FIG. 4 , FIG. 10 ), and the pair of first protrusions 71b is locked by the first container locking portion 331 . Thereby, the positioning of the cap 70 in the X-axis direction (the longitudinal direction of the first surface 201 of the cartridge body 20 ) is performed with respect to the cartridge body 20 . In detail, when the cap 70 is about to move in the −X axis direction relative to the case body 20 in the mounted state (also referred to as “the state covering the opening 288 ”) to the case body 20 , the first container The locking part 331 collides with the first protrusion part 71b, and the movement of the cap 70 in the −X axis direction is restricted.

Positioning of the cap 70 in the Y-axis direction (the width direction of the first face 201 of the cartridge body 20 ) relative to the cartridge body 20 is performed by the insertion piece 71 a being received into the container receiving portion 333 . In detail, in the installed state, when the cap 70 is about to move in the Y-axis direction relative to the box main body 20, the insertion piece 71a collides with the container receiving portion 333 (in detail, through the pair of first container locking portions 331 Formed surface, Fig. 4, Fig. 10), the movement of the Y-axis direction of the cap 70 is restricted.

The pair of second protrusions 71c are provided on the side of the cap handle 72 that faces the third surface 203 . In the mounted state, the pair of second protrusions 71c are inserted into corresponding recesses 207 provided on the third surface 203 ( FIGS. 3 , 7 , and 11 ). Thereby, the second arrangement member 79 t of the first cap member 79 comes into airtight contact with the other end portion 37 a forming the opening 288 , and the opening 288 is sealed (covered). Here, a plane passing through the center of the cap 70 (the center of the cap 70 in the Y-axis direction) and parallel to the X-axis and the Z-axis is located between the pair of recesses 207 .

As shown in FIGS. 20 to 22 , the first cap member 79 has a sealing portion 762 and a receiving portion 76 . The sealing portion 762 blocks the communication port 32 in the attached state where the cap 70 is attached to the cartridge body 20 . The receiving portion 76 receives the liquid outflow portion 31 (the sheet member 36 ) in the mounted state. The receiving portion 76 is a concave shape.

The first cap member 79 also has a cap step portion 766 as a second step portion between the sealing portion 762 and the receiving portion 76 . The cap step portion 766 is formed by the peripheral edge portion 764 of the receiving portion 76 . The cap step portion 766 includes a convex portion 766a. The convex portion 766 a extends toward the one end portion 37 b side (+Z axis direction side) compared with the bottom portion 765 and the seal portion 762 of the receiving portion 76 .

As shown in FIG. 22 , in the mounted state, the receiving portion 76 is in contact with at least a part of the sheet central portion 368 . In addition, the peripheral edge portion 764 has a facing portion 766 b inclined in the direction in which the inclined portion 368 t of the liquid outflow portion 31 inclines. The opposing portion 766b is formed over the circumferential direction of the peripheral edge portion 764 . In other words, the opposing portion 766b is a portion standing upright from the peripheral edge of the bottom portion 765 of the receiving portion 76 . Here, the inclined portion 368t and the opposing portion 766b do not need to have the same inclination angle with respect to the first direction (−Z axis direction), but only need to incline in the same direction. In the present embodiment, the opposing surfaces of the inclined portion 368t and the facing portion 766b are substantially parallel.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 22 , the first cap member 79 includes a first arrangement member 79s forming the receiving portion 76 and the sealing portion 762 , and a second arrangement member 79t abutting on the other end portion 37a.

B-2. Effect:

In the second embodiment described above, the cartridge 13 includes the cap 70 for closing the opening 288 . Thereby, it is possible to reduce the possibility of ink leaking from the opening 288 when the cartridge 13 is transported or the like. In addition, the communication port 32 and the cap handle 72 are located on the same side with respect to the liquid outflow part 31 . Accordingly, even if the user tries to place the case 13 on a predetermined surface with the cap handle 72 on the down side, the posture will not be stable. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the cartridge 13 from being placed on a predetermined surface with the cap handle 72 on the lower side. Accordingly, even when ink leaks from the liquid outflow portion 31 , the possibility that the leaked ink reaches the communication port 32 can be reduced. In addition, the cap 70 has a sealing portion 762 . Accordingly, the possibility of ink flowing into the communication path 310 through the communication port 32 can be reduced.

In addition, the cap 70 has a cap step portion 766 . Accordingly, since the flow of ink can be blocked by the cap step portion 766 , the possibility of ink reaching the sealing portion 762 along the receiving portion 76 can be reduced. Here, the cap step portion 766 is formed by the peripheral edge portion 764 of the receiving portion 76 . Thereby, there is no need to provide a member for additionally providing a step. In addition, by forming the receiving portion 76 into a concave shape and arranging the sealing portion 762 outside the receiving portion 76 , the cap step portion 766 can be easily formed by the peripheral edge portion 764 .

In addition, the opposing portion 766b of the cap 70 is inclined in the direction in which the inclined portion 368t of the liquid outflow portion 31 is inclined. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the volume of the internal chamber Sp that accommodates air formed by the liquid supply part 280 and the cap 70 . Thereby, when the cap 70 is attached to the cartridge 13, even if the inner chamber Sp is compressed and the air in the inner chamber Sp flows backward into the liquid accommodating portion 200, the inflow into the liquid accommodating portion 200 via the liquid outflow portion 31 can be restricted. amount of air. Here, the internal chamber Sp is a space located on the opening 288 side (downstream side) of the liquid outflow portion 31 among the spaces formed by the liquid supply portion 280 and the cap 70 . In addition, here, the upstream side and the downstream side are based on the flow direction of the fluid flowing from the one end portion 37 b to the other end portion 37 a of the liquid supply portion 280 .

In addition, since the receiving portion 76 is in contact with at least a part of the sheet center portion 368 , the volume of the internal chamber Sp where air exists can be further reduced. Accordingly, the amount of air flowing from the internal chamber Sp into the liquid storage portion 200 via the liquid outflow portion 31 can be further restricted. In addition, since the cap 70 is in contact with the sheet central portion 368 constituting the liquid outflow portion 31 , it is possible to suppress leakage of ink from the liquid outflow portion 31 .

Moreover, the cap 70 has the opposing part 766b (FIG. 22) inclined corresponding to the direction in which the inclined part 368t of the liquid outflow part 31 inclines. This opposing portion 766b is formed by the peripheral edge portion (cap step portion 766 ) of the receiving portion 76 . By having the opposing portion 766b, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the ink leaked from the liquid outflow portion 31 will flow out to the outside of the cap 70 . In other words, the cap 70 has a portion 766 standing up from the peripheral edge of the surface facing the liquid outflow portion 31 toward the liquid outflow portion 31 side (+Z-axis direction side). Accordingly, even when the ink leaked from the liquid outflow portion 31 adheres to and flows on the surface of the cap 70 facing the liquid outflow portion 31 , the ink can be held in the receiving portion 76 . Therefore, it is possible to suppress ink from flowing out to the outside of the receiving portion 76 .

In addition, the cap 70 has members 71a, 71b for positioning with respect to the cartridge main body 20 . Thereby, the opening 288 can be reliably blocked with the cap 70 . In addition, by this, the liquid outflow portion 31 is received in the receiving portion 76 , and the possibility of ink flowing out to the outside of the receiving portion 76 can be reduced.

In addition, the cartridge 13 of the second embodiment can exhibit the same effects as those of the first embodiment in terms of having the same configuration as the cartridge 20 of the first embodiment.

C. The third embodiment:

C-1. Composition of box 13a:

Fig. 23 is a perspective view of a cartridge main body 20a of the third embodiment. Fig. 24 is a perspective view of a cartridge 13a of the third embodiment. The cartridge body 20a of the third embodiment is larger than the cartridge 20 (corresponding to the cartridge body) of the first embodiment in the Y-axis direction. The cartridge main body 20a is mounted into the holder 60 using two slots of the holder 60 (FIG. 2). The cartridge main body 20a can accommodate a larger amount of ink than the cartridge 20 of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 23 , the cartridge main body 20 a has two liquid supply portions 280 a protruding from the first face 201 . The two liquid supply parts 280a have the same configuration as the liquid supply part 280 of the first embodiment. That is, in the cartridge 20a of the third embodiment, the ink inside is branched, and the ink is supplied to the printer 50 side from the two liquid supply parts 280a.

As shown in FIG. 24 , the cartridge 13a includes a single cap 70a that blocks two openings 288 . The cap 70a includes a cap main body 74 and a cap handle 72a similarly to the case 13 of the second embodiment. The cap handle 72a protrudes outward from the third surface 203 similarly to the second embodiment.

Fig. 25 is a first perspective view of cap 70a. Figure 26A is a second perspective view of cap 70a. The cap 70a of the third embodiment includes: a concave base portion 75a; and a first cap member 79a that is disposed in the concave portion of the base portion 75a and closes the opening 288 . The first cap member 79a is an elastic member such as rubber, as in the second embodiment. The difference from the first cap member 79 of the second embodiment is that two first arrangement members 79s corresponding to the two liquid supply parts 280a are arranged on the second arrangement member 79t. Each first arrangement member 79s has the same configuration as in the above-mentioned embodiment, and has, for example, a sealing portion 762 , a cap step portion 766 , and a receiving portion 76 .

A step portion 769 as a first step portion is formed between a line L1 (the shortest line L1 ) connecting the two sealing portions 762 along the surface of the cap 70 a. The step portion 769 prepares the first arrangement member 79s forming the sealing portion 762 for each liquid supply unit 280a, and is formed by arranging the first arrangement member 79s on the same surface (the surface of the second arrangement member 79t).

C-2. Effect:

In the above-described embodiment, even when ink reaches one sealing portion 762 , the step portion 769 can suppress ink that has reached one sealing portion 762 from reaching another sealing portion 762 . In addition, the same effects as those of the first and second embodiments are exerted in terms of including the same configurations as those of the first and second embodiments described above.

D. The fourth embodiment:

D-1. Composition of the box main body 20 and the cap 70b:

26B and 26C are perspective views of the cap 70b of the fourth embodiment. Fig. 26D is a sectional view of the cartridge main body 20 with the cap 70b installed. Fig. 26E is an enlarged view of a part of Fig. 26D. Here, FIG. 26E is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 16 of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 26D , the cartridge 13b of the fourth embodiment includes a cartridge main body 20 and a cap 70b similarly to the cartridge 13 ( FIG. 19 ) of the second embodiment. The cartridge main body 20 of the fourth embodiment has the same configuration as the cartridge 20 of the first embodiment. In addition, the external structure (appearance shape) which comprises the appearance of the cap 70b of 4th Embodiment is the same structure as the cap 70 (FIGS. 19-21) of 2nd Embodiment. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 26B , the cap 70b is common to the cap 70 of the second embodiment in that it has a pair of first protrusions 71b, an insertion piece 71a, a pair of second protrusions 71c, and the like. The cap 70b of the fourth embodiment differs from the cap 70 of the second embodiment mainly in that the first cap member 79b is integrally formed; the sealing portion 762 is not included; and the liquid absorbing material 81 is provided. Therefore, the same components as those of the cap 70 of the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the first cap member 79b may be integrally formed.

As shown in FIG. 26B , the liquid absorbing material 81 as a member for absorbing ink is disposed on the receiving portion 76 and the cap step portion 766 . As shown in FIG. 26E , the liquid absorbing material 81 is disposed at a position facing the liquid outflow portion 31 (sheet member 36 ). The liquid absorbing material 81 prevents the ink leaked from the liquid outflow portion 31 from flowing out to other parts. The liquid absorbing material 81 may be any member as long as it has a function of holding ink. Examples of the member having the function of holding ink include a porous body, for example, PVA sponge (Bell IT) (manufactured by Aion Corporation) and the like.

As shown in FIGS. 26B and 26C , the liquid absorbent material 81 extends from the receiving portion 76 to the outside of the receiving portion 76 across the cap step portion 766 . Specifically, the end portion 82 of the liquid absorbent material 81 is closer to the communication port 32 side than the cap step portion 766 . The liquid absorbent material 81 is in the form of a sheet. The liquid absorbent material 81 receives the liquid outflow portion 31 (the sheet member 36 ) together with the receiving portion 76 and the cap step portion 766 in the mounted state where the cap 70 b is mounted on the cartridge main body 20 . That is, it can be said that at least a part of the wall surface of the receiving portion 76 is formed of the liquid absorbing material 81 .

As shown in FIG. 26E , in this embodiment, the part of the liquid absorbent material 81 disposed on the receiving part 76 (also referred to as "opposing part") in the mounted state does not form the liquid outflow part 31 ( The first central portion 368v of the sheet member 36) is arranged in contact with each other at a distance. In addition, in the attached state, the opposing portion of the liquid absorbent material 81 and the liquid outflow portion 31 (the sheet member 36 ) are arranged to face each other in the Z-axis direction. That is, in the mounted state, the opposing portion of the liquid absorbent material 81 and the liquid outflow portion 31 (sheet member 36 ) are in an overlapping positional relationship when projected onto a plane (XY plane) parallel to the Z-axis direction.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 26E , in the mounted state, the portion of the liquid absorbent material 81 arranged on the cap step portion 766 (also referred to as “absorbent material step portion”) is arranged so as to form the liquid outflow portion 31. (The sheet member 36 ) is in contact with the inclined portion 368t located on the communication port 32 side among the four inclined portions 368t. In other words, the liquid absorbent material 81 is arranged so as to be sandwiched between the cap step portion 766 and the inclined portion 368t of the liquid outflow portion 31 .

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 26E , at least a part of the liquid absorbent material 81 faces the communication port 32 in the Z-axis direction. That is, in the mounted state, the liquid absorbing material 81 and the communication port 32 are in a positional relationship where at least a part overlaps when projected on a plane (XY plane) parallel to the Z-axis direction. In addition, the liquid absorbing material 81 (specifically, the end portion 82 ) is arranged at a distance from it without contacting the communication port 32 .

D-2. Effect:

The cartridge 13b of the fourth embodiment described above includes a cap 70b having a liquid absorbent material 81 (FIG. 26D). Thereby, even when ink leaks from the liquid outflow part 31 (sheet member 36 ), such as when the cartridge 13b is being transported, the leaked ink can be absorbed by the liquid absorbing material 81 . As a result, when the cartridge main body 20 is used, even if the cap 80 is removed from the cartridge 13b, the possibility of ink leaking to the outside can be reduced. Thereby, for example, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the user's hands are soiled with ink.

In addition, in the attached state, the liquid absorbing material 81 is arranged at a distance from the first central portion 368v constituting the sheet member 36 without being in contact with it, and is arranged so as to at least partially face each other in the Z direction. Therefore, the ink leaked from the first central portion 368v can be absorbed without damaging the first central portion 368v through which the ink flows out to the printer.

In addition, in the mounted state, the part of the liquid absorbent material 81 arranged on the cap step part 766 (absorbent material step part) is arranged so as to be aligned with the four inclined parts 368t constituting the liquid outflow part 31 (sheet member 36). Among them, the inclined portion 368t on the communication port 32 side (communication port side inclined portion 368t) contacts ( FIG. 26E ). Therefore, the ink absorbed by the liquid absorbing material 81 can flow to the liquid outflow part 31 through the communication port side inclined part 368t. Therefore, the ink absorbed by the liquid absorbing material 81 can be returned to the liquid outflow portion 31 (the sheet member 36 ). As a result, even when the cap 70b is detached from the cartridge 13b when the cartridge main body 20 is used, the possibility of ink leaking to the outside can be reduced. Thereby, for example, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the user's hands are soiled with ink. In addition, the amount of unusable ink can be reduced. Furthermore, the liquid absorbing material 81 is arranged so as to be sandwiched between the cap step portion 766 and the inclined portion 368t of the liquid outflow portion 31 ( FIG. 26E ). Thereby, the ink flow path from the liquid outflow part 31 to the communication port 32 can be narrowed, and thus the possibility of ink flowing into the communication port 32 can be reduced.

In addition, in the mounted state, the liquid absorbing material 81 and the communicating port 32 are at least partially overlapped when projected on a plane (XY plane) parallel to the Z-axis direction ( FIG. 26E ). Therefore, even when the ink flows out into the space 83 ( FIG. 26E ) constituted by the communication port 32 and the cap 70 b, the possibility of the ink flowing into the communication port 32 can be reduced. In addition, the liquid absorbing material 81 is arranged at intervals so that a part thereof does not come into contact with the communicating port 32 . This can reduce the possibility that the ink held by the liquid absorbing material 81 will directly flow into the communication port 32 .

D-3. Modified example of the fourth embodiment:

In the fourth embodiment described above, the liquid absorbing material 81 ( FIG. 26B ) is employed as a member having a function of holding (absorbing) ink. Instead, the receiving portion 76 itself may have a function (construction) of holding (absorbing) ink. As a structure capable of holding ink, an uneven shape including grooves formed on the surface of the receiving portion 76 is exemplified. Capillary force is generated by the concavo-convex shape, and ink can be held by the receiving portion 76 .

In the fourth embodiment described above, the liquid absorbing material 81 is disposed on the receiving portion 76 and the cap step portion 766 , but the liquid absorbing material 81 may be disposed only on the receiving portion 76 or only on the cap step portion 766 . Thereby, the ink leaked from the liquid outflow part 31 can be absorbed. In this case, the liquid absorbing material 81 is preferably disposed on at least a part of the cap 70b from the portion facing the liquid outflow portion 31 to the portion facing the communication port 32 on the inner surface of the cap 70b. Thereby, the possibility that the ink leaked from the liquid outflow part 31 will flow into the communication port 32 can be reduced.

In the fourth embodiment described above, in the mounted state, the part (opposing part) of the liquid absorbent material 81 arranged on the receiving part 76 is not aligned with the first center constituting the liquid outflow part 31 (sheet member 36). The portions 368v are arranged in contact with an interval, but may be arranged in contact. By arranging both 81 and 368v in contact, ink can be further absorbed by the liquid absorbing material 81 .

In the fourth embodiment described above, in the mounted state, the portion of the liquid absorbent material 81 arranged on the cap step portion 766 (absorbent step portion) is arranged so as to form the liquid outflow portion 31 (the sheet member 36). Out of the four inclined portions 368t, the inclined portion 368t on the communication port 32 side contacts. However, what is necessary is just to arrange|position so that it may contact with at least one of the four inclined parts 368t, and may arrange|position so that it may contact with some. In addition, both 81 and 368t do not need to be brought into contact. Even so, by narrowing the space between the cap step portion 766 and the inclined portion 368t of the liquid outflow portion 31 , it is possible to reduce the possibility of ink flowing out to the outside. Furthermore, the liquid absorbing material 81 is arranged so as to be sandwiched between the cap step portion 766 and the inclined portion 368t of the liquid outflow portion 31 . However, the liquid absorbing material 81 may also be disposed so as to be sandwiched between the cap step portion 766 and the attachment portion 362 ( FIG. 18 ). Even so, by narrowing the space between the cap step portion 766 and the inclined portion 368t of the liquid outflow portion 31 , it is possible to reduce the possibility of ink flowing out to the outside.

In the above-mentioned fourth embodiment, the liquid absorbing material 81 is disposed so as to at least partially overlap the communicating port 32 when projected on the XY plane in the mounted state, but may not overlap. It is only necessary for a part of the liquid absorbent material 81 to exist in the space 83 connected to the communication port 32 . Even so, the amount of ink flowing into the communication port 32 can be reduced.

In the above-described fourth embodiment, the liquid absorbent material 81 is arranged so that the end portion 82 of the liquid absorbent material 81 does not contact the communication port 32 in the attached state, but it may be in contact. When both 82 and 32 are in contact, when the ink leaked into the space 83 connected to the communication port 32 flows into the communication port 32 , the ink can be absorbed by the liquid absorbing material 81 .

The cap 70 b of the fourth embodiment described above can be deformed in such a manner that it can be applied to a cartridge main body having a plurality of liquid supply parts 280 . Fig. 26F is a first perspective view of a cap 70c as a modified example. Fig. 26G is a second perspective view of a cap 70c as a modified example. The cap 70c which is a modified example of the cap 70b of the fourth embodiment described above can be attached to the cartridge main body 20a ( FIG. 23 ) of the third embodiment. The cap 70c includes a first cap member 79c having a wider width in the Y-axis direction than the first cap member 79b of the fourth embodiment. In addition, the first cap member 79c includes two receiving portions 76, two cap step portions 766, and two liquid absorbing materials 81 corresponding to the two liquid supply portions 280a of the cartridge main body 20a ( FIG. 23 ). In addition, the same code|symbol is attached|subjected to the structure similar to the cap 70a (FIG. 25) of 3rd Embodiment, and description is abbreviate|omitted. In the cap 70c of the modified example, the same effect can be obtained with respect to the configuration similar to that of the cap 70b of the fourth embodiment.

E. The fifth embodiment:

E-1. How to regenerate the box:

In the fifth embodiment, the method for reproducing the cartridges 13 , 13 a , 13 b , 20 , and 20 a described above has been described.

The cartridges 13 , 13 a , 13 b , 20 , 20 a can be reused by refilling ink after the cartridges 13 , 13 a , 13 b , 20 , 20 a are cleaned and the like when the ink inside is exhausted due to ink consumption. In the fifth embodiment, a reproduction method for reusing the cartridges 13 , 13 a , 13 b , 20 , and 20 a described above has been described.

The sheet member (film member) 36 included in the liquid outflow portion 31 of the cartridge 13 , 13 a , 13 b , 20 , 20 a is in contact with the liquid supply tube 640 that allows the ink to flow to the head 54 in a state where it is attached to the printer 50 . .

When the sheet member 36 and the liquid supply pipe 640 are in contact, the sheet member 36 receives stress from the liquid supply pipe 640 . Due to this force, the sheet member 36 may be damaged. Specifically, damage such as breakage and deformation of the sheet member 36 may occur. This damage becomes conspicuous because the user repeatedly attaches and detaches the cartridges 13 , 13 a , 13 b , 20 , and 20 a to and from the holder 60 . When ink is refilled into the cartridges 13 , 13 a , 13 b , 20 , 20 a having damaged sheet members 36 such as breakage or deformation, the following problems may occur. For example, ink may leak from a damaged position of the sheet member 36 . In addition, for example, ejection failure of the head 54 may occur due to air bubbles entering the head 54 from the deformed position.

Therefore, when regenerating the used cartridges 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a, replacement of the sheet member 36 is considered.

However, since the sheet member 36 is attached to the supply part main body 285 by welding or the like, it is difficult to replace it.

Therefore, in the fifth embodiment, a method of reproducing the used cartridges 13 , 13 a , 13 b , 20 , 20 a without replacing the sheet member 36 will be described.

FIG. 26H is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the liquid supply portion 280 of the cartridge 20b (regenerated cartridge 20b ) of the fifth embodiment. Except for the structure of the liquid supply part 280, it is the same structure as the above-mentioned cartridge 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a. As will be described below, the regenerated cartridge 20b is also referred to as a regenerated cartridge 20b.

As shown in FIG. 26H , the liquid supply unit 280 of the fifth embodiment covers the opening 288 with the sheet member (film member) 93 in a state where the sheet member 36 remains. That is, the sheet member 93 is airtightly attached to the other end portion 37 a by welding or the like so as to cover the opening 288 without a gap. The difference from the sheet members 92 and 94 of FIG. 27 described later is that the sheet member 93 of the fifth embodiment is made of a liquid-permeable material while the sheet members 92 and 94 are formed of a liquid-impermeable material. material formed. By bringing at least a part of the sheet member 93 into contact with the liquid supply tube 640 , the ink can be circulated in the head 54 . Here, the sheet member 93 may be attached to the other end portion 37 a so as to cover the opening 288 in a state where at least a part of the sheet member 93 is in contact with the sheet member 36 . Accordingly, the ink flows from the sheet member 36 to the sheet member 93 , and ink can be satisfactorily supplied to the printer 50 via the sheet member 93 . In addition, the sheet member 93 has flexibility, and the sheet member 93 can be pushed in by the liquid supply tube 640 to be in contact with the sheet member 31 in the mounted state of the cartridge 20b. In addition, in FIG. 26H, the communication port 32 is also blocked by the sheet member 95, but it does not need to be blocked. In the case of plugging, it may be the same material as the sheet member 93 or the same material as the sheet members 92 and 94 shown in FIG. 27 . The sheet member 93 for covering the opening 288 is preferably configured to be able to form a liquid (ink) meniscus. By doing so, it is possible to reduce the possibility of ink leaking from the sheet member 93 to the outside in a state where the cartridge 20 b is not attached to the printer 50 . In the regeneration cartridge 20b, the sheet member 93 serves as the liquid outflow portion 31 for allowing the ink to flow to the outside (the liquid supply tube 640).

E-2. Effect:

In the above-described embodiment, even if the sheet member (film member) 36 functioning as the liquid outflow portion 31 is damaged due to use or the like before regeneration in the cartridge 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a In the case of damage such as deformation or deformation, the liquid outflow portion 31 can be newly installed without replacing the sheet member 36 of the used cartridge 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a. Thereby, the cartridge 20b can be easily reproduced.

F. The sixth embodiment:

F-1. How to regenerate the cartridge:

In the sixth embodiment, a method for regenerating a used cartridge and a regenerated cartridge obtained by regenerating the used cartridge will be described.

FIG. 26I is a diagram for explaining the reproduction cassette 20c. FIG. 26I is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 16 . The difference between the reproduction cartridge 20c of the sixth embodiment and the cartridge 20 ( FIG. 16 ) of the first embodiment is as follows. That is, the point that the communication port 32 is formed in the cartridge 20 of the first embodiment is different in that the communication port 32 is sealed or covered by members such as the sheet member 95a in the regeneration cartridge 20c. Since the other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, the same symbols are attached to the same configurations, and descriptions thereof are omitted. The sheet member 95a is formed of a liquid-impermeable material.

As explained above, the communication port 32 also functions to prevent ink from leaking due to pressure imbalance assumed when the cartridge 20 is accommodated in the packaging bag under reduced pressure.

On the other hand, in recent years, a method of recycling a used cartridge by refilling ink after collecting the used cartridge in consideration of the environment and the like, and a regenerated cartridge have been provided.

Such a recycled cassette may not be housed in a packaging bag and sold from the viewpoint of the environment or the like. In addition, for reasons such as securing the degree of degassing of the ink or reducing costs, there are cases where the cartridge is sold without being stored under reduced pressure, although it is stored in a packaging bag. In such a regeneration cartridge, since ink leakage due to the aforementioned pressure imbalance is less likely to occur, the communication port 32 does not function from the viewpoint of ink leakage due to pressure imbalance. In addition, since the communication port 32 communicates with the air introduction port 290 , the ink entering the communication port 32 may leak from the air introduction port 290 .

Therefore, it is preferable that the communication port 32 is sealed or covered in the regeneration cartridge 20c for regenerating the used cartridge 20 . That is, it is preferable to block the flow path of the fluid passing between the outside of the communication port 32 and the inside of the liquid supply part 280 (specifically, the second flow path 39 ). Here, the term "fluid" means at least liquid.

As a method of sealing or covering the communicating port 32, there are the following various methods. For example, as one method, as shown in FIG. 26I, there is a method of sealing the communication port 32 with a sheet member 95a. For example, as another method, there is a method of filling the passage 33 including the communication port 32 with resin or the like. In addition, for example, as another method, there is a method of welding resin or the like to the communication port 32 so as to block the communication port 32 . In addition, for example, as another method, there is a method of sealing the communication port 32 by welding the member itself that defines the communication port 32 (around the communication port 32 , the communication port forming member 32t). That is, for the regeneration box 20c, the communication port 32 formed on the box 20 is sealed or covered, or as long as the passage 33 is blocked, the method of blocking the flow path such as sealing method, covering method, or blocking method may not be considered.

In addition, it is preferable that resin or the like used for sealing or covering the communication port 32 or the sealed or covered communication port 32 does not protrude outward (opening 288 side) compared to the sheet member 36 . That is, this is because: in the regeneration cartridge 20c, when the member used to block the flow path or the communication port 32 itself protrudes outward (to the opening 288 side) compared with the sheet member 36, due to contact with the caps 70, 70a , 70b, 70c, liquid supply pipe 640, elastic member 648 and other components may come into contact with other components, which may cause damage to the other components.

F-2. Effect:

When regenerating the used cartridge 20 in which the communicating port 32 is formed, the leakage of ink from the air inlet 290 to the outside can be suppressed by shutting off the flow path when the regenerated cartridge 20c is stored or the like.

In addition, a member such as resin used to seal or cover the communication port 32 , or the communication port 32 sealed or covered by the member does not protrude outward (to the opening 288 side) compared to the sheet member 36 . Thereby, damage to other components due to contact with other components such as the caps 70 , 70 a , 70 b , and 70 c , the liquid supply tube 640 , and the elastic member 648 can be suppressed.

F-3. Modified example of the sixth embodiment:

In the sixth embodiment, when the used cartridge 20 is regenerated, the communication port 32 is sealed or covered with resin or the like to block the flow path. According to another modified example, the member (blocking member) for blocking the flow path, such as resin, may be detached when used by the user. That is, since the communication port 32 is sealed or covered before the user uses it, leakage of ink from the air inlet 290 connected to the communication port 32 can be suppressed when the regeneration cartridge 20c is stored. On the other hand, by detaching the blocking member when the user wants to use it, the inside and outside of the liquid supply part 280 communicate through the communication port 32 . In this way, it is possible to suppress ink leakage due to pressure imbalance that may occur when the regeneration cartridge 20 c attached to the holder 60 is detached from the holder 60 .

G. The seventh embodiment:

G-1. Regeneration method of caps 70b, 70c:

In the seventh embodiment, a method for regenerating the caps 70b and 70c will be described. Figure 26J is a perspective view of cap 70g being regenerated.

The caps 70b and 70c can be reused after being washed or the like when used as a component of the cartridge 20 . In the seventh embodiment, a reproduction method for reusing the previously described caps 70b and 70c will be described. In addition, the regenerated cap is also referred to as a regenerated cap 70g.

The caps 70b, 70c before regeneration are provided with a liquid absorbing material 81 (FIG. 26B, FIG. 26F). The liquid absorbing material 81 has a function of holding the liquid leaked from the liquid outflow portion 31 .

Therefore, the liquid absorbing material 81 holds the liquid (ink) corresponding to the color of the mounted cartridge 13 , 13 a , 13 b , 20 , 20 a. Specifically, the liquid absorbing material 81 attached to the caps 70b, 70c of the cartridge containing black ink holds black liquid (ink), and the liquid absorbing material 81 attached to the caps 70b, 70c of the cartridge containing yellow ink holds yellow. The liquid (ink) is attached to the caps 70b, 70c of the cartridge containing the magenta ink. The liquid absorbing material 81 holds the liquid (ink) of light magenta, and is attached to the caps 70b, 70c of the cartridge containing the ink of cyan. The liquid absorbing material 81 of the caps 70b, 70c holds the light blue liquid (ink).

In order to remove the liquid held in the liquid absorbent material 81 when the caps 70b, 70c are regenerated, a method of cleaning the liquid absorbent material 81 is considered. The caps 70b and 70c after cleaning the liquid absorbent material 81 are also referred to as regeneration caps 70b and 70c.

However, there is a possibility that the liquid may not be completely removed by washing after a certain period of time has elapsed after the liquid has been in contact with the liquid absorbent material 81 and held there. If it cannot be completely removed, the regenerating caps 70b, 70c holding inks of different colors from those contained in the cartridges 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a may be attached. Specifically, the regeneration caps 70b, 70c provided with the liquid absorbing material 81 holding the black ink may be attached to the cartridges 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a containing the light cyan ink. In this case, the liquid absorbing material 81 of the regeneration cap 70b, 70c holding the black ink is in contact with the sheet member 36 of the cartridge 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a containing the light cyan ink, and there is a possibility of color mixing of the light cyan and black. sex. When color mixing occurs, there is a high possibility of failure in color reproduction using the liquid ejection system 10 ( FIG. 1 ). In addition, when reinstalling the regeneration caps 70b, 70c that have been removed from the cartridges 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a once again to the cartridges 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a, there is a high possibility of harm to the user. confusion.

Therefore, in the seventh embodiment, a reproduction cap 70g that prevents color mixing and user confusion as described above will be described.

As shown in FIG. 26J , in a regenerating cap 70g of the seventh embodiment, a liquid absorbent material 81a is arranged to overlap the liquid absorbent material 81 shown in the fourth embodiment. Specifically, after the used caps 70b and 70c are collected, they are subjected to a predetermined process such as washing with the liquid absorbing material 81 attached thereto. When the liquid absorbent material 81 is detached from the caps 70b, 70c, there is a possibility that the part where the liquid absorbent material 81 is attached may be peeled off. In addition, since garbage is generated, a predetermined procedure is performed without removing the liquid absorbent material 81 from the caps 70b, 70c. deal with. The liquid absorbent material 81a is further disposed on the liquid absorbent material 81 after predetermined processing. The liquid absorbent material 81a has the same configuration as the liquid absorbent material 81 .

In addition, the color of the liquid absorbing material 81a can adopt the color of the ink (except white) or black that is not used in the printer 50 in which the cartridges 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a are installed. The regeneration cap 70g having this liquid absorbing material 81a is attached.

G-2. Effect:

In the above-mentioned seventh embodiment, it is possible to provide the regeneration cap 70g which reduces the possibility of color mixing and user confusion without removing the liquid absorbing material 81 included in the caps 70b and 70c before regeneration.

Specifically, even when the liquid-absorbent material 81 of the caps 70b and 70c before regeneration holds liquid, the liquid-absorbent material 81a can be arranged on the liquid-absorbent material 81 during regeneration. Accordingly, when printing on the printing medium 90 using the liquid ejection system 10 , it is possible to prevent color misregistration and deterioration of color reproducibility due to color mixing.

The color of the liquid absorbing material 81a is preferably the color of ink (except white) or black that is not used in the printer 50 in which the cartridges 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a are installed. 20a is fitted with the regeneration cap 70g having the liquid absorbing material 81a. The reason for this preference will be described in detail below. Even if the ink adhering to the liquid absorbent material 81 is mixed with the ink of the sheet member 36, a new liquid absorbent material 81a is provided on the liquid absorbent material 81 of the cap 70g. That is, a new liquid absorbent material 81a that does not cause color mixing is provided on the upper surface of the color mixing liquid absorbent material 81 . Therefore, when trying to reattach the regeneration cap 70g removed from the cartridge 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a once again to the cartridge 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a, it is possible to reduce the possibility of causing confusion to the user. . Also, in the case of the regeneration cap 70c ( FIG. 26F ), it is only necessary to attach the liquid absorbent material 81a to each of the two liquid absorbent materials 81 .

G-3. Modified example of the seventh embodiment:

In the above-mentioned seventh embodiment, the preferred color of the liquid absorbing material 81a is set to the color of ink not used in the printer 50 installed with the cartridges 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a or black. 13a, 13b, 20, 20a are attached with regeneration cap 70g having this liquid absorbing material 81a. However, instead of the liquid absorbing material 81a, the color of the liquid absorbing material 81 may be the color of ink not used on the printer 50 of the installation box 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a or black. , 13b, 20, 20a are equipped with caps 70b, 70c having the liquid absorbent material 81. That is, not limited to the regenerated cap 70g, the color of the liquid absorbing material 81 that the caps 70b, 70c have before regeneration may be the color of the ink that is not used on the printer 50 with the cartridges 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a installed. Color (other than white) or black, the box 13, 13a, 13b, 20, 20a is fitted with a cap 70b, 70c.

H. Other implementation methods:

H-1. First other embodiment:

FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram for explaining the first other embodiment. In the above embodiment, the caps 70 , 70 a , 70 b , 70 c , and 70 g are used to close the communication port 32 and the opening 288 , but the present invention is not limited thereto. The communication port 32 and the opening 288 may be blocked by other sealing members. For example, as shown in FIG. 27 , in the first other embodiment, the sheet member 92 as the liquid supply port sealing member blocks the opening 288 and the sheet member 94 as the opening sealing member seals the communication port 32 . Each sheet member (film member) 92, 94 is formed of a liquid-impermeable material. Here, the sheet member 94 is preferably formed of an air-permeable material. By doing so, it is possible to suppress the intrusion of ink into the communication path 310 and maintain the pressure in the second flow path 39 containing air at the same level as the external pressure. In addition, the sheet members 92 and 94 block the opening 288 and the communication port 32 in a detachable state.

When the cartridge is projected onto a plane perpendicular to the first direction (−Z axis direction), the sheet member 94 is disposed at a position not to overlap the liquid outflow portion 31 . Here, once the ink adheres to the sheet member 94 , when the sheet member 94 is peeled off from the communication port 32 , there is a high possibility that the ink will scatter and enter the communication port 32 . In addition, when the sheet member 94 is formed of an air-permeable material, clogging or the like will occur when the sheet member 94 is wetted with ink, and the original function of the sheet member 94 (function of passing air) will be affected. damage. However, since the sheet member 94 is provided at a position not to overlap the liquid outflow portion 31 , the possibility of ink leaking from the liquid outflow portion 31 adhering to the sheet member 94 can be reduced. Therefore, occurrence of the above-mentioned disadvantages can be reduced.

In addition, the sheet member 94 has an end portion 94p extending outward from the opening 288 . In addition, the sheet member 92 has one end portion 92p extending outward from the opening 288 . By doing so, the user can easily detach the sheet members 92, 94 from the case. In addition, the one end portions 92p and 94p are adhered to each other. That is, one end portions 92p, 94p of the two sheet members 92, 94 are integrated. Thus, the user can detach the two sheet members 92, 94 from the case with one operation.

H-2. Second other embodiment:

FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram for explaining another second embodiment. The difference from the first other embodiment shown in FIG. 27 is that the sheet members 92 , 94 are not bonded to each other and that the sheet member 92 is longer than the sheet member 94 and extends outward from the opening 288 . By doing so, the user can be urged to grasp the sheet member 92 before the sheet member 94 and remove it from the cartridge. Thereby, by detaching the sheet member 94 from the cartridge later than the sheet member 92 , it is possible to further reduce the possibility of ink flowing into the communication port 32 .

H-3. Third other embodiment:

FIG. 29 is a diagram for explaining another third embodiment. In the first embodiment described above, the relationship of H4>H2 is satisfied, but the relationship of H4<H2 may be satisfied instead. That is, the communication port 32 may be located on the lower side (the side in the −Z-axis direction) than the liquid outflow portion 31 . In other words, the communication port 32 may be located on the downstream side of the liquid outflow portion 31 in the outflow direction of the liquid from the liquid supply portion 280 . In this way, it is possible to further reduce the possibility that the ink leaked from the liquid outflow portion 31 flows into the communication path 310 through the communication port 32 . For example, even when ink leaks from the liquid outflow portion 31 when the cartridge is in the second state (the state where the +Z axis direction is the vertically downward direction), since the communication port 32 is located in the vertical direction from the liquid outflow portion 31 Therefore, the possibility of ink reaching the communication port 32 can be reduced.

I. Variations:

In addition, among the constituent elements in the above-mentioned embodiments, elements other than the elements described in the independent claims are additional elements and can be appropriately omitted. In addition, it is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment of this invention, It can implement in various forms in the range which does not deviate from the summary, For example, the following deformation|transformation is also possible.

I-1. First modified example:

In the above-mentioned embodiments, a so-called semi-hermetic type cartridge has been described as an example, but the present invention can also be applied to other types of cartridges. For example, the present invention can also be applied to an ink cartridge of the type in which the liquid storage portion 200 is always communicated with the outside or a type of ink cartridge in which the liquid storage portion 200 is always sealed (so-called ink bag).

I-2. Second modified example:

In the above-mentioned embodiment, the inner wall 35 is formed by the outer peripheral wall of the communication port forming member 32t, but it is not limited to this, and it may be erected from the wall surface dividing the inside of the liquid supply part 280 and placed on the liquid outflow part 31. The inner wall 35 is formed by a wall spaced apart from the communicating port 32 . In addition, for example, the cartridges 13 , 13 a , and 20 may be provided with a suppressing portion located between the communication port 32 and the liquid outflow portion 31 on the wall surface that divides the inside of the liquid supply portion 280 . , and the flow of ink between the communication port 32 and the liquid outflow portion 31 is suppressed. In the above-described embodiment, the inner wall 35 corresponds to the suppressing portion. In addition, as the restraining portion, irregularities provided on the wall surface, or a holding member (for example, a porous member such as a sponge) provided on the wall surface and capable of holding liquid may be exemplified.

I-3. The third modified example:

In the above-described embodiment, the communication port sealing member for closing the communication port 32 such as the caps 70 and 70 a and the sheet member 94 blocks the communication port 32 over the entire area. However, it is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient that at least a part of the communication port 32 is blocked by a communication port sealing member. Even so, the possibility of ink flowing into the communication path 310 through the communication port 32 can be reduced.

I-4. Fourth modified example:

In the above-described embodiment, the cap step portion 766 is a convex portion ( FIG. 22 ), but may also be a concave portion, or may have a convex portion and a concave portion. Even so, the possibility of ink reaching the sealing portion 762 along the receiving portion 76 can be reduced.

I-5. Fifth modified example:

In the above-described embodiment, the caps 70 and 70a are in contact with the sheet central portion 368 in the attached state, but they may not be in contact. By doing so, it is possible to reduce the possibility of ink adhering to the caps 70, 70a.

I-6. The sixth modified example:

Fig. 30 is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the supply application member 30g. FIG. 31 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 16 . Here, an example in which a supply member 30 g of this modified example is used instead of the supply member 30 of the cartridge 20 is shown. In addition, the member 30g for supply can also be used for the cassettes 20a-20c of other embodiment using the member 30 for supply. Furthermore, the difference between the supply member 30 g and the supply member 30 is that the supply member 30 g further includes a pressing member 80 . Since the structure of other supply member 30g is the same as that of the supply member 30, the same code|symbol is attached|subjected to the same structure, and description is abbreviate|omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 30 and 31 , the foam 34 and the pressing member 80 can also be disposed inside the sheet member 36 (the liquid container 200 side, the upstream side). The pressing member 80 has a spring portion 80a. The spring portion 80a urges (presses) the foam 34 toward the side (the side in the −Z-axis direction) where the sheet member 36 is located.

When the supply member 30g includes the pressing member 80, when the caps 70 to 70c, 70g are brought into contact with the sheet member 36 functioning as the liquid outflow portion, the sheet member 36 itself or is placed in contact with the partition. Other members (the foam 34 and the pressing member 80 ) of the supply member 30 , 30 g at positions facing the caps 70 to 70 c , 70 g with the sheet member 36 on them may be deformed. When these members 36, 34, 80 are deformed, there is a possibility that the supply of liquid from the cartridges 20, 20a to the printer 50 may be poor. Therefore, in a state where the caps 70 to 70c and 70g are mounted on the boxes 20, 20a to 20c and cover the opening 288 (also referred to as "mounted state" or "state to seal the opening 288"), the caps 70 to 70c are preferably , 70g is not in contact with the sheet member 36 . That is, in the mounted state, it is preferable that the caps 70 to 70c and 70g are spaced apart from contact with the supply members 30 and 30g disposed in the liquid supply parts 280 and 280a of the cartridges 20 and 20a to 20c.

I-7. The seventh modified example:

The present invention is not limited to inkjet printers and their ink cartridges, and can be applied to any liquid ejection devices that consume liquids other than ink, and cartridges (liquid storage containers) used in these liquid ejection devices. For example, the present invention can be applied as a cartridge used in the following various liquid ejection devices.

(1) Image recording devices such as facsimile devices;

(2) Color material injection devices used in the manufacture of color filters used in image display devices such as liquid crystal displays;

(3) Electrode material injection devices used in electrode formation of organic EL (Electro Luminescence, electroluminescence) displays or field emission displays (Field Emission Display, FED);

(4) Liquid ejection devices used in the manufacture of biochips to eject liquids containing bioorganic substances;

(5) As a sample injection device for a precision pipette;

(6) Spraying device for lubricating oil;

(7) Injection device for resin liquid;

(8) A liquid injection device that sprays lubricating oil to precision equipment such as clocks or cameras with a needle tip;

(9) A liquid ejecting device that ejects a transparent resin liquid such as an ultraviolet curable resin onto a substrate for forming a micro hemispherical lens (optical lens) or the like used in an optical communication element, etc.;

(10) A liquid ejecting device that ejects an acidic or alkaline etching solution for etching a substrate, etc.;

(11) A liquid ejecting device having a liquid ejecting head for ejecting other arbitrary minute liquid droplets.

In addition, "liquid" refers to the state of the liquid ejected from the liquid ejection device, and includes the liquid that trails in a granular shape, a teardrop shape, or a linear shape. In addition, the "liquid" mentioned here may be any material that can be consumed by the liquid ejection device. For example, "liquid" should only be a material in the state when the substance is a liquid phase, such as a liquid material with high or low viscosity, and such as sol, gel water, other inorganic solvents, organic solvents, solutions, liquid resins, liquid Liquid materials such as metals (melt metals) are also included in the "liquid". In addition, "liquid" includes not only liquid as one state of matter, but also matter in which particles of functional materials composed of solid matter such as pigments or metal particles are dissolved, dispersed, or mixed in a solvent. In addition, as a representative example of the liquid, the ink or liquid crystal described in the above-mentioned embodiment may be mentioned. Here, the ink includes various liquid compositions such as common water-based ink, oil-based ink, gel ink, and hot-melt ink.

I-8. Eighth modified example:

Various forms have been described above, but the following forms can also be employed.

In addition, in the following form, the code|symbol in an Example is attached|subjected to a component before reference.

Mode 1. A cap (70, 70a), wherein the cap (70, 70a) is mounted on a cartridge (20, 20a), the cartridge (20, 20a) comprising: a liquid container (200), its interior contains a liquid; a liquid supply (280) having an opening (288) for communicating said liquid to the outside, and said liquid supply (280) having a The liquid in the liquid storage part (200) is communicated to the liquid outflow part (31) outside; and the communication path (310), the opening of one end (communication port 32) of the communication path (310) is located in the liquid supply part (200) inside, and make the outside communicate with the inside of the liquid supply part (200),

said cap includes a cap body (74) for blocking said opening (288),

The cap main body (74) has a sealing portion (762) that blocks at least a portion of the one-end opening (32) when the cap is mounted on the case (20, 20a).

According to the cap of this aspect, even when the liquid leaks from the liquid storage portion in the mounted state, the possibility of the liquid flowing into the communication path through the opening at one end can be reduced.

Aspect 2. The cap (70, 70a) according to Aspect 1, wherein,

The cap (70, 70a) also includes:

a cap handle (72, 72a), the cap handle (72, 72a) is used to remove the cap (70, 70a) from the box (20, 20a), the cap handle (72, 72a) protrudes outward compared to an outer surface (203) of the case (20, 20a) in a mounted state where the cap is mounted to the case (20, 20a); and

a receiving portion (76), the receiving portion (76) is used to receive the liquid outflow portion (31),

The sealing portion (762) and the cap handle (72, 72a) are located on the same side relative to the receiving portion (76).

According to the cap of aspect 2, it is possible to prevent the case from being placed on the predetermined surface in a state where the handle of the cap is located on the lower side in the vertical direction. Thereby, the possibility that the liquid adhering to the receiving part reaches the sealing part can be further reduced.

Mode 3. The cap (70, 70a) according to mode 2, wherein,

There is also a cap step portion (766) located between the sealing portion and the receiving portion and including at least one of a convex portion (766a) and a concave portion.

According to the cap of aspect 3, even when the liquid leaked from the liquid outflow part adheres to the receiving part, the possibility of the liquid reaching the sealing part along the receiving part can be reduced by the cap step part.

Aspect 4. The cap (70, 70a) according to Aspect 3, wherein,

The receiving portion (76) is concave in shape,

The cap step portion (765) is formed by the peripheral edge portion (764) of the receiving portion (76).

According to the cap of aspect 4, it is not necessary to provide a new separate member in order to provide the cap step portion.

Aspect 5. The cap (70, 70a) according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein

The liquid outflow portion (31) has an inclined portion (368t) inclined with respect to a predetermined direction (first direction),

The cap (70, 70a) also has an opposing portion (766b) opposite to the inclined portion (368t) in the mounted state,

The opposing portion (766b) is inclined in a direction in which the inclined portion (368t) is inclined in an attached state where the cap (70, 70a) is attached to the cartridge (20, 20a).

According to the cap of aspect 5, in the mounted state, it is possible to reduce the volume of the internal chamber formed by the cap and the liquid supply part to accommodate air. Accordingly, it is possible to limit the amount of air flowing from the inner chamber into the liquid storage portion via the liquid outflow portion.

Mode 6. The cap (70a) according to any one of modes 1 to 5, wherein,

The liquid supply part (280a) of the box (20a) is provided in plurality,

The plurality of sealing parts (762) are provided corresponding to the plurality of one-end openings (32),

The cap (70a) further has a step portion (769) provided along a line (L1) connecting the sealing portions along the surface of the cap (70a).

According to the cap of aspect 6, even when the liquid reaches one sealing portion, the step portion can suppress the liquid that has reached one sealing portion from reaching the other sealing portion.

Mode 7. A cap (70b, 70c), wherein the cap (70b, 70c) is mounted on a cartridge (20, 20a), the cartridge (20, 20a) comprising: a liquid containing portion (200), its interior contains a liquid; a liquid supply (280) having an opening (288) for communicating said liquid to the outside, and said liquid supply (280) having a The liquid in the liquid storage part (200) is communicated to the liquid outflow part (31) outside; and the communication path (310), the opening of one end (communication port 32) of the communication path (310) is located in the liquid supply part (200) inside, and make the outside communicate with the inside of the liquid supply part (200),

said cap includes a cap body (74) for blocking said opening (288),

The cap body (74) has a liquid absorbent material (81).

According to the cap of aspect 7, even if the liquid leaks from the opening (280), since the liquid can be absorbed by the liquid absorbing material, it is possible to suppress the liquid from leaking to the outside.

In aspect 7, it is preferable that the liquid absorbing material (81) is arranged on the side opposite to the liquid outflow portion (31) in the mounted state mounted on the cartridge (20), more preferably at least A part is arranged at a position facing the liquid outflow part (31). In this way, more ink leaked from the liquid outflow portion can be absorbed by the liquid absorbing material.

I-9. Ninth modified example:

In the above-mentioned embodiment and the above-mentioned modifications, the caps 70, 70a, 70b, 70c are used on the cartridges 13, 13a, 20 having the communication port 32 and the inner wall 35, but they can also be used on other cartridges having a liquid supply port. on the box. Even so, since the liquid supply port (opening 288 ) can be blocked by the caps 70 , 70 a , 70 b , and 70 c , the possibility of ink leaking outside the caps 70 , 70 a , 70 b , and 70 c can be reduced. Also, for example, the caps 70 , 70 a , 70 b , and 70 c may be attached to a case that does not have the communicating port 32 . According to this configuration, even when ink leaks from the liquid outflow portion, the liquid supply port can be blocked by the cap to reduce the possibility of ink leaking to the outside. In particular, the caps 70, 70a, 70b, and 70c have opposing portions 766b inclined corresponding to the direction in which the inclined portion 368t of the liquid outflow portion 31 inclines ( FIG. 22 ). With this configuration, it is possible to further reduce the possibility of ink flowing out of the cap. In addition, for example, the caps 70 , 70 a , 70 b , and 70 c may be attached to a case that does not have the inner wall 35 but has the communicating port 32 . Thereby, the possibility of ink leaking to the outside through the communication port 32 can be reduced. In addition, the case 13, 13a, 20 and the caps 70, 70a, 70b, 70c have been described above, but the case 13, 13a, 20 may be called including the cap 70, 70a, 70b, 70c.

Symbol Description

10…Liquid Injection System

13, 13a... box

15...circuit board

20, 20a～20c... box main body (box)

22…Main part

22p, 22t...end face

24...cover parts

30, 30g... for application parts

31...Liquid outlet

32...Communication port

32t...Communication port forming part

33...One end side flow path

34…foam

35…inner wall

36...sheet parts

37a...the other end

37b...one end

38…The first channel

39...Second flow path

40...valve mechanism

41...end face

42…spring parts

43...Valve Department

44…Stem valve

46...cover valve

47…Through hole

49…Shaft

50…printer

51…control department

52…brackets

53…flexible cable

54 heads

55…carriage motor

56…Transport motor

57...Detection Department

58…drive belt

59…Imprint Scroll

60…Retainer

62...Contact mechanism

64… handle

70, 70a, 70b, 70c, 70g...caps

72, 72a... cap handle

74…cap body

75, 75a...base part

76…Acceptance Department

79, 79a, 79b, 79c...first cap part

79s...first configuration part

79t...Second Configuration Parts

80…press parts

80a...spring part

81, 81a... Liquid absorbent material

83… space

90…Print media

92...sheet parts

92p...one end

94...sheet parts

94p...one end

200…Liquid container

201～206...Side 1～Side 6

201s...second end

201t...first end

208...connection surface

209...Corner part

210...The first locking part

220…air chamber

221...Second locking part

242…The first connecting room

270…prism unit

271... surface (reflective surface)

275...Through the surface

277...Liquid communication port

280, 280a... Liquid Supply

281...surrounding wall

285...The main body of the supply department

288…opening

290...Atmospheric inlet

291...sheet parts

292…Venting port

293…Pressure plate

294…coil spring

310…connected paths

362…Installation department

364...Non-installation part (peripheral part)

364a...First peripheral part

368...Central portion of the sheet

368t...Inclined part

368v...first central part

601...Wall

602...Case installation part (cassette storage room)

603...Wall

604...Wall

607...Partition wall

636…through hole

640…Liquid supply tube

648…elastic parts

762…Sealing part

764...peripheral part

765…bottom

766…Cap step

766a...Convex part

766b...Opposite part

769…Stairs

L1...Online

Sp...inner chamber

Claims (17)

CLAIMS 1. A cartridge for containing liquid supplied to a liquid ejection device, said cartridge comprising: liquid container; a liquid supply having an opening at an end of the liquid supply; a sealing member covering the opening; and air inlet, In the liquid supply part, there are: a liquid outflow portion that causes the liquid to flow out to the liquid ejection device; and a surrounding wall forming sides of the liquid supply and having ends defining the opening, The sealing member has a liquid absorbing material disposed at a position facing the liquid outflow portion, The sealing components include: a receiving portion for receiving the liquid outflow portion; and the cap step portion formed by the peripheral portion of the receiving portion, The liquid-absorbent material extends from the receiving portion to the outside of the receiving portion beyond the cap step portion. 2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein, The liquid absorbing material is disposed so as to be sandwiched between the cap step portion and the inclined portion of the liquid outflow portion. 3. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein, The box includes: a communication port, the communication port communicates with the air inlet, the communication port is one end of a passage protruding toward the opening in the liquid supply part, the passage protrudes from the inner wall surface of the liquid supply part, The communication port is arranged at a distance from the peripheral wall. 4. The cartridge of claim 3, wherein, The sealing components include: a receiving portion for receiving the liquid outflow portion; and With the cap step portion formed by the peripheral edge portion of the receiving portion, the end portion of the liquid absorbing material is located closer to the communication port than the cap step portion. 5. The cartridge of claim 3, wherein, At least a part of the liquid absorbing material is opposed to the communicating port. 6. The cartridge of claim 3, wherein, the sealing member has a handle protruding outwardly compared with the outer surface of the case, The handle and the communication port are located on the same side relative to the liquid outflow portion. 7. The cartridge of claim 6, wherein, The box includes: a first surface on which the liquid supply part is provided; a second face intersecting the first face; and the third face that intersects the second face, A pair of first container locking portions are provided on the first surface, A pair of recesses are formed at an end portion of the third surface on the side of the first surface, The sealing member has a pair of first protrusions locked on the pair of first container locking parts and a pair of second protrusions inserted into the pair of recesses, The pair of second protrusions are provided on a side of the handle facing the third surface. 8. The cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The sealing member is a cap detachably attached to the case. 9. The cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The liquid absorbent material is in sheet form. 10. A cap mounted on a case comprising: a liquid container for containing liquid supplied to the liquid ejection device; a liquid supply having an opening at an end of the liquid supply; and air inlet, In the liquid supply part, there are: a liquid outflow portion that causes the liquid to flow out to the liquid ejection device; and a surrounding wall forming sides of the liquid supply and having ends defining the opening, The cap includes: a liquid absorbent material disposed at a position opposing the liquid outflow portion, The cap also includes: a receiving portion for receiving the liquid outflow portion; and the cap step portion formed by the peripheral portion of the receiving portion, The liquid-absorbent material extends from the receiving portion to the outside of the receiving portion beyond the cap step portion. 11. The cap of claim 10, wherein: The liquid absorbing material is disposed so as to be sandwiched between the cap step portion and the inclined portion of the liquid outflow portion. 12. The cap of claim 10, wherein: The box includes: a communication port, the communication port communicates with the air inlet, the communication port is one end of a passage protruding toward the opening in the liquid supply part, the passage protrudes from the inner wall surface of the liquid supply part, The communicating port is spaced apart from the peripheral wall, The cap includes: a receiving portion for receiving the liquid outflow portion; and With the cap step portion formed by the peripheral edge portion of the receiving portion, the end portion of the liquid absorbing material is located closer to the communication port than the cap step portion. 13. The cap of claim 10, wherein: The box includes: a communication port, the communication port communicates with the air inlet, the communication port is one end of a passage protruding toward the opening in the liquid supply part, the passage protrudes from the inner wall surface of the liquid supply part, The communication port is arranged at a distance from the peripheral wall; and the cap, wherein, At least a part of the liquid absorbing material is opposed to the communicating port. 14. The cap of claim 13, wherein: the cap has a handle protruding outwardly compared to the outer surface of the case, The handle and the communicating port are located on the same side relative to the liquid outflow portion. 15. The cap of claim 14, wherein: The box includes: a first surface on which the liquid supply part is provided; a second face intersecting the first face; and the third face intersecting the second face, A pair of first container locking portions are provided on the first surface, A pair of recesses are formed at an end portion of the third surface on the side of the first surface, The cap has a pair of first protrusions locked on the pair of first container locking parts and a pair of second protrusions inserted into the pair of recesses, The pair of second protrusions are provided on a side of the handle facing the third surface. 16. The cap of any one of claims 10 to 15, wherein: The cap is detachably attached to the case. 17. The cap of any one of claims 10 to 15, wherein: The liquid absorbent material is in sheet form.