DE202006020593U1 - Ink cartridge and inkjet recording device - Google Patents

Abstract

A unit of ink cartridges including at least three types of ink cartridges having different sizes is provided. Each ink cartridge has a pair of casing members, constituted by a first casing member and a second casing member. A first ink cartridge is larger in size than the second ink cartridge, and the second ink cartridge is larger in size than the third ink cartridge. The first casing member of the second ink cartridge is the same as the first casing member of the first ink cartridge, and the second casing member of the second ink cartridge is the same as the second casing member of the third ink cartridge.

Description

Technical area

The The present invention relates to ink cartridges, and more particularly to one An ink cartridge adapted to receive the ink supply part can protect against impact when the ink cartridge unintentionally falls down, and the licking of ink prevented from the ink reservoir.

Hinder reason

A known ink cartridge includes a housing with a Ink storage chamber, which stores ink therein. The cartridge will inserted in and removed from an ink jet recording apparatus, which recording by ejecting in the ink reservoir stored ink from a recording or printhead performs. The ink cartridge is provided with an ink supply part, which has an insertion path into which a needle is inserted which protrudes in the ink-jet recording apparatus. The ink supply part protrudes from a surface of the housing.

The JP 2001-71522 discloses a liquid container which functions like an ink cartridge in which a connection part corresponding to the ink supply part protrudes from a wall constituting the case, and the connection part includes an elastic part located therein. If the liquid container accidentally falls, the impact is not transmitted to the wall because the connection part protrudes from the wall, and the impact applied to the connection part is absorbed by the elastic part. As a result, both the connecting part and the wall can be prevented from being damaged.

problems which are to be solved by the invention

In the above mentioned JP 2001-71522 described liquid container is the elastic member, which is designed so that it should absorb the force exerted on the connecting part impact, mounted within the connecting part. If the liquid container falls by mistake, the connection part or the ink supply part may be damaged, and in some cases, ink from the ink reservoir chamber will leak out of the damaged part.

The Invention has been developed to solve the above drawbacks and its object is to provide an ink cartridge comprising the ink supply member can protect against impact when the ink cartridge accidentally falls off, and the licking of ink prevent the ink reservoir. Furthermore, an ink-jet recording apparatus provided that is designed with such a Ink cartridge works together.

Ways to solve the problem

These Task is achieved by an ink cartridge according to claim 1 and dissolved by an ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 14 or 15. further developments are described in the dependent claims.

Advantageous effects of invention

According to one Aspect of the invention is a pair of projections on both Sides of the Tintenzuführteils attached, which of the Protruding end face of the housing to the outside, and the protrusions project outward in the same direction like the ink feed part, and they keep on going outside than the ink supply part. Even if the ink cartridge accidentally falls off, the Impact on the pair exerted projections, so that the Tintenzuführteil can be prevented from the impact record directly. Thus, the Tintenzuführteil before damage due to the impact of the case can be prevented, and it can prevent the leakage of ink from the ink reservoir become.

additionally according to another aspect of the invention the first projection on an intervened section, with an engaging portion of the ink jet recording apparatus in FIG Intervention arrived. When the ink cartridge in the ink jet recording apparatus is installed in position, enters the intervened section of the first protrusion engaged with the engaging portion. Thus, the ink cartridge can be installed as intended. The engaging portion is a guide projection which protrudes along a direction in which the ink cartridge is installed is, and the engaged portion is a guide groove, which extends in a direction in which the guide projection is introduced. During the leadership lead is inserted into the guide groove, the ink cartridge Installed. This will allow the ink cartridge to be in the normal installation position with respect to the ink jet recording apparatus, so the ink cartridge will be installed at the installation site can.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the invention, when the ink cartridge in the ink-jet recording apparatus enters in a normal installation orientation, the engaged portion of the first projection engages with the engaging portion of the installation portion is stalled. When the ink cartridge is installed in the ink jet recording apparatus in an improper position, one end of the second projection collides with the engaging portion. If the ink cartridge is installed in the correct orientation, it can be installed at the installation site. If the ink cartridge is installed in the improper position, it can not be installed at the installation site. Thus, the ink cartridge can be prevented from being installed in an incorrect position.

According to one In another aspect of the invention, the second projection is configured to that in a situation where the second projection with the intervening Section collides while the ink cartridge in the incorrect position is introduced, the entire length of the second projection and the engaging portion larger is the length of the extraction element. This can be a Collision between the extraction element and the ink cartridge be prevented. The extraction element runs along the direction in which the ink cartridge is installed and is so configured to extract ink from the ink reservoir. If the extraction element is damaged or bent, can it does not extract the ink properly and a recording error can occur. Will the ink cartridge installed in an incorrect position, the second collides Projection with the engaging portion, and the extraction element does not collide with the ink cartridge with the result that damage or deformation of the extraction element prevents and the occurrence a recording error can be reduced. additionally The installation section contains the ink-jet recording apparatus a receiving portion that includes an area that the Outline of the ink cartridge corresponds, and the ink cartridge is inside this recording section installed. When the ink cartridge is installed is, it can be deterred from the installation direction departing. Thus, this embodiment can be the occurrence collisions between the extraction element and the ink cartridge Prevent by one of the regular installation direction deviating installation of the ink cartridge can be caused and it can be prevented that the extraction element is damaged or bent.

According to one Another aspect of the invention is the second projection on a End provided with a recessed section. Because the recessed Section collides with the end of the engaging section, For example, the recessed portion of the second protrusion may have a state maintained the contact with the engaging section and thus reduce the possibility that the engaging section releases from the recessed section. Thus, can be prevented be that the ink cartridge is moving towards the extraction element, after the engaging portion extends from the recessed portion has solved, and the extraction element may be damaged or deformity are preserved.

According to one In another aspect of the invention, the recessed portion collides with the end of the engaging section, leaving the end of the engaging portion remains in the recessed portion, when the ink cartridge in the ink-jet recording apparatus installed in an incorrect way. This means, the recessed portion of the second protrusion may have a state in which he is with the end of the engaging section collides, and reduces the possibility that the engaging portion releases from the recessed portion. The recessed portion of the second projection may be in any Form be formed as long as they reduce the possibility may be that the engaging portion of the recessed Section resolves. For example, the recessed portion in the Essentially be in the form of the letter U (V or L), when the second projection is seen from one side. Furthermore For example, the recessed portion of the second protrusion may correspond be designed the shape of the engaging portion.

According to one Another aspect of the invention closes the second projection a sloped surface that slopes continuously from a surface extending upward, which serves as a bottom surface of the Housing in the normal installation position is used. This simplifies a smooth installation of the ink cartridge. Without the inclined surface may be a corner portion of the second Projection with the inlet opening of the ink jet recording device collide when the ink cartridge in the ink jet recording apparatus is installed, and the ink cartridge can not be installed smoothly become.

According to the invention, the ink reservoir chamber is housed within the housing. Even if the ink cartridge accidentally falls, damage to the ink reservoir due to the impact can be prevented. The light-irradiated part configured to be irradiated with light from an optical sensor to detect the ink level is formed between the ink supply part and the air supply part. The detection window is formed on the end face of the housing in a position corresponding to the light irradiated part. When the ink cartridge is installed, the optical sensor is inserted through the detection window and placed inside the case. Because within the housing we If no contamination is present outside the housing, the irradiation can be performed properly and ink level detection errors can be reduced. In addition, the light-irradiated part is transparent and is provided with an inner space communicating with the ink reservoir. As a movable member moves in response to a change in an ink level in the ink supply chamber, a light blocking portion of the movable member moves along a path including at least an inside of the inner space. Therefore, by using the optical sensor in the ink jet recording apparatus, a low ink level can be detected.

Further Features and advantages will become apparent from the following description of embodiments in conjunction with the attached Drawings in which show:

1 : An oblique view of the external appearance of the multifunction device of the present invention.

2 : an oblique view of the refill unit.

3 : A side view in the state in which the flap of the refill unit is open.

4 : a cross-sectional view of the refill unit in 2 along the line IV-IV.

5 : a cross-sectional view of the refill unit in 2 along the line VV.

6 : An exploded, perspective view of the flap of the refill unit.

7 : An oblique view of the appearance of the color ink cartridge.

8th : a perspective view of details of the color ink cartridge.

9 a schematic view of the protective cap, wherein (a) is a plan view of the protective cap when viewed from the perspective IXa of 8th and (b) is a cross-sectional view of the protective cap taken along line IXb-IXb of FIG 9 (a) is.

10 : An oblique view of the external appearance of the black ink cartridge.

11 : an oblique view of details of the black ink cartridge.

12 : An oblique view of the appearance of the large-format black ink cartridge.

13 : an oblique view of details of the large format black ink cartridge.

14 Fig. 3 is a schematic view of the ink reservoir member, wherein (a) is a front view of the ink reservoir member, and (b) is a side view of the ink reservoir member.

15 FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the feed path forming part, wherein (a) is a simplified schematic of the feed path forming part (a side view of the frame part), (b) is a cross sectional view of the feed path forming part in FIG 15 (a) (c) is a schematic of the state in which the amount of ink is reduced, and (d) is a schematic of a depleted ink supply.

16 FIG. 3 is a schematic of the ambient air path forming part, wherein (a) is a simplified oblique view of the ambient air path forming part, (b) is a schematic of the ambient air path forming part in FIG 16 (a) is along the perspective of the arrow XVIb, and (c) is a schematic of the ambient air path forming part in FIG 16 (a) along the perspective of the arrow XVIc.

17 FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the injection path forming part, wherein (a) is a simplified schematic of the injection path forming part, and (b) is a cross sectional view of the injection path forming part in FIG 17 (a) along the line XVIIb-XVIIb.

18 FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the environment of the detection part, wherein (a) is a simplified schematic representation of the environment of the detection part, (b) is a cross-sectional view of the detection part in FIG 18 (a) is along the line XVIIIb-XVIIIb, and (c) is a cross-sectional view of the detection part in 18 (a) along the line XVIIIc-XVIIIc.

19 FIG. 3 is a schematic of the sensor arm, wherein (a) is a front view of the sensor arm, and (b) is a schematic of the sensor arm in FIG 19 (a) along the perspective of the arrow XIXb.

20 Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of a portion of the ink supply member, wherein (a) is a schematic representation of the side of the ink supply member, (b) is a schematic representation of one side of the front of the ink supply member, and (c) is a cross-sectional view of 20 (a) along the line XXc-XXc is.

21 : a schematic representation of details of the ink supply element.

22 Figure 11 is an exploded schematic of the ink delivery mechanism and the ambient air inlet mechanism, wherein (a) is an exploded schematic of the ink delivery mechanism, and (b) is an exploded schematic of the ambient air inlet mechanism.

23 FIG. 2 is a schematic of the feed cap, wherein (a) is a schematic representation of the side of the feed cap, (b) is a schematic representation of the side surface of the feed cap in FIG 23 (a) along the perspective of arrow XXIIIb, (c) is a schematic representation of the planar surface of the feed cap, (d) is a schematic representation of the bottom surface of the feed cap, and (e) is a cross-sectional view of the feed cap in FIG 23 (c) along the line XXIIIe-XXIIIe.

24 Figure 11 is a schematic of the feed seal, where (a) is a schematic of the feed seal side, (b) is a schematic representation of the planar surface of the feed seal, (c) is a schematic of the bottom surface of the feed seal, and (d) is a cross-sectional view of the feed seal in FIG 24 (b) along the line XXIVd-XXIVd is.

25 FIG. 5 is a schematic of the supply valve, where (a) is a schematic representation of the side of the supply valve, (b) is a schematic representation of the side of the supply valve in FIG 25 (a) along the perspective of the arrow XXVb, (c) is a schematic of the flat surface of the supply valve, (d) is a schematic representation of the bottom surface of the supply valve, and (e) is a cross-sectional view of the supply valve in FIG 25 (c) along the line XXVe-XXVe is.

26 3 is a schematic of the first feed spring, wherein (a) is a schematic of the side of the first feed spring, (b) is a schematic representation of the planar surface of the first feed spring, (c) is a schematic representation of the bottom surface of the first feed spring, and (d) Cross-sectional view of the first feed spring in 26 (b) along the line XXVId-XXVId.

27 FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the feed gate, wherein (a) is a schematic representation of the feed gate side; (b) is a schematic of the feed gate side in FIG 27 (a) along the perspective of arrow XXVIIb, (c) is a schematic representation of the planar surface of the feed gate, (d) is a schematic representation of the bottom surface of the feed gate, and (e) is a cross-sectional view of the feed gate in FIG 27 (c) along the line XXVIIe-XXVIIe.

28 3 is a schematic view of the valve seat, wherein (a) is a schematic of the side of the valve seat, (b) is a schematic representation of the planar surface of the valve seat, (c) is a schematic representation of the bottom surface of the valve seat, and (d) is a cross-sectional view of the valve seat in FIG 28 (b) along the line XXVIIId-XXVIIId.

29 3 is a schematic view of the check valve, where (a) is a schematic of the side of the check valve, (b) is a schematic representation of the flat surface of the check valve, (c) is a schematic representation of the bottom surface of the check valve, and (d) is a cross-sectional view of the check valve in FIG 29 (a) along the line XXIXd-XXIXd is.

30 3 is a schematic view of the cover, wherein (a) is a schematic of the side of the cover, (b) is a schematic of the flat surface of the cover, (c) is a schematic of the bottom surface of the cover, and (d) is a cross-sectional view of the cover in FIG 30 (b) along the line XXXd-XXXd.

31 FIG. 3 is a schematic of the ambient air cap, wherein (a) is a schematic of the side of the ambient air cap, (b) is a schematic of the side of the ambient air cap in FIG 31 (a) is along the perspective of the arrow XXXIb, (c) is a schematic representation of the planar surface of the ambient air cap, (d) is a schematic representation of the bottom surface of the ambient air cap, and (e) is a cross-sectional view of the ambient air cap in 31 (c) along the line XXXIe-XXXIe.

32 3 is a schematic of the environmental air seal, wherein (a) is a schematic of the side of the ambient air seal, (b) is a schematic of the planar surface of the ambient air seal, (c) is a schematic of the bottom surface of the ambient air seal, and (d) is a cross-sectional view of the ambient air seal in FIG 32 (b) along the line XXXIId-XXXIId.

33 Figure 5 is a schematic of the ambient air valve, wherein (a) is a schematic of the side of the ambient air valve, and (b) is a schematic of the bottom surface of the ambient air valve.

34 Fig. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the state in which the ink supply mechanism and the ambient air intake mechanism are installed in the ink supply unit and the ambient air intake unit.

35 : a schematic of the manufacturing processes before welding the film.

36 Figure 5 is a schematic of the processes for welding the film, wherein (a) is a schematic representation of the welding surface of the film on the frame part, and (b) is a schematic of the welding process for welding the film to the frame part.

37 Figure 11 is a schematic of the manufacturing operations performed after the film has been welded, wherein (a) is a schematic of the attachment process for attaching the ink supply mechanism and the ambient air inlet mechanism to the frame member, (b) is a schematic of the pressure reduction operation, and (c) is a schematic illustration of the ink injection process.

38 Figure 11 is a schematic of the housing attachment process, wherein (a) is a schematic representation of the process of capturing the frame member by the housing, and (b) is a schematic of the welding operation of the housing.

39 Figure 3 is a schematic of the manufacturing operations performed prior to shipment of the ink cartridge, wherein (a) is a schematic representation of the process of attaching the protective cap, and (b) is a schematic of the process of packaging the ink cartridge using the packaging unit.

40 : A schematic representation of the method for attaching the ink cartridge to the multifunction device.

41 : A schematic of the state in which the ink cartridge is attached to the multifunction device.

42 Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram of the operation of the sensor arm according to the amount of ink remaining in the ink reservoir chamber, wherein (a) shows the state in which ink is left, and (b) shows the state in which no ink is left.

43 : a schematic representation of the principle of operation of the sensor arm.

44 FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the state in which the ink cartridge is misaligned with the multifunction device. FIG 1 is appropriate.

45 Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of the process for removing the ink cartridge from the ink jet recording apparatus.

46 : A schematic representation of the front perspective of the ink cartridge and the state in which it is removed from the multifunction device.

47 Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure for reducing the adhesion of ink to the detection surface of the detection part of the ink cartridge, wherein (a) shows the state in which the ink cartridge has been removed from the refill unit, (b) is a schematic of the surface to which the detection part is formed on the ink cartridge, and (c) is an oblique view of the ink cartridge.

48 Figure 5 is a schematic of the front of the housing, wherein (a) is a front view of the housing that can accommodate either the large size black ink cartridge or the black ink cartridge and the color ink cartridge, and (b) is a front view of the housing containing the black ink cartridge and ink cartridge can pick up the color ink cartridge.

49 a simplified cross-sectional view of the housing, wherein (a) is a simplified cross-sectional view of the housing in 48 (a) is along the line XXXXIXa-XXXXIXa, and (b) a simplified cross-sectional view of the housing in 48 (b) along the line XXXXIXb-XXXXIXb.

50 a cross-sectional view of the state in which each ink cartridge is mounted in the housing.

51 a schematic representation of the combination of the housing elements.

52 5 is a schematic view of the ink cartridge and the refilling unit according to the second embodiment, wherein (a) is a schematic view of the side of the ink cartridge according to the second embodiment, and (b) is a schematic of the cross section in the state where the ink cartridge is mounted in the refill unit ,

53 an oblique view of the external appearance of the ink cartridge according to the third and fourth embodiments, wherein (a) is an oblique view of the external appearance of the ink cartridge according to the third embodiment, and (b) is an oblique view of the external appearance of the ink cartridge according to the fourth embodiment.

54 an oblique view of the ink cartridge according to the fifth embodiment.

55 a cross-sectional view of the state in which the ink cartridge according to the fifth embodiment in the refill angeges is done.

56 a cross-sectional view of the state in which the ink cartridge according to the sixth embodiment is mounted in the refill unit.

57 a summary block diagram of the electrical construction of the multi-functional device according to the sixth embodiment.

58 Fig. 10 is a flowchart of the ink cartridge attachment detection process executed by the CPU.

59 an oblique view of the external appearance of the ink cartridge according to the seventh and eighth embodiments, wherein (a) is an oblique view of the external appearance of the ink cartridge according to the seventh embodiment, and (b) is an oblique view of the external appearance of the ink cartridge according to the eighth embodiment.

60 a schematic representation of the ink cartridge and the refill unit according to the ninth embodiment.

61 an oblique view of the external appearance of the ink cartridge according to the tenth embodiment.

62 an exploded perspective view of the ink cartridge according to the tenth embodiment.

63 a schematic representation of the replacement procedure for the Inkvorrateinheit.

64 a schematic representation of the ink supply unit according to the eleventh embodiment.

65 a schematic representation of a modified example for combining the housing elements.

66 a schematic representation of a modified example for combining the housing elements.

67 a schematic representation of a modified example for combining the housing elements.

(Embodiments of the invention)

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. 1 is an oblique view showing the appearance of the multifunction device 1 shows in which the ink cartridge 14 of the present invention is installed.

The printer part 11 is in the lower part of the multifunction device 1 present, and the scanner part 12 is at the top of this printer part 11 available. The multifunction device 1 is an MFD (Multi Function Device), in which the printer part 11 and the scanner part 12 as a unit, and has various functions such as a printer function, scanner function, copy function, and facsimile function.

The multifunction device 1 is primarily connected to a computer (external PC, not shown in the figure) and records images or documents based on image data or document data sent from this computer on recording paper used as a recording medium. The multifunction device 1 may also be connected to an external device such as a digital camera (not shown in the figure) so as to record image data output from the digital camera on recording paper. In addition, the multifunction device 1 using the receiver 2 communicate with a device of another party and send image data to the device of the other party. Furthermore, the multifunction device 1 with a slot part described below 23 and loading various types of recording media such as memory cards into this slot part 23 For example, the device may record data such as recording image data recorded on the recording medium on recording paper.

In the multifunction device 1 is the printer part 11 is configured as an ink jet recording apparatus, and the refill unit 13 for storing ink supplied in advance to a recording head (not shown in the figure) for discharging ink droplets is at the base of the front surface of the multifunction device 1 intended. The refill unit 13 has a compact design and is configured to hold the ink cartridge 14 can be easily changed, which is described in detail below.

The scanner part 12 is with a platen glass 15 , which serves as FBS (flatbed scanner), and a template cover 16 on the upper part of this platen 15 (above in 1 ) is provided. The template cover 16 is equipped with an automatic document feeder (ADF: Auto Document Feeder, in the following: "ADF") 17 provided and by means of a crowd niers on the back of the document glass 15 (in the back in 1 ), so that it can be opened and closed freely. This is the template cover 16 by pivoting in the direction of arrow A relative to the document glass 15 opened and closed. In this embodiment, the document glass 15 a portion of the housing of the multifunction device 1 and the template cover 16 makes a section of the top of the multifunction device 1 represents.

The document glass 15 is with a contact glass (not shown in the figure) between the document glass and the template cover 16 provided and is provided on the inside with an image reading unit (not shown in the figure). A document is placed between the template cover 16 and the contact lens, and the image reading unit reads images from the document by moving on the bottom of the contact lens on the contact lens.

The template cover 16 is with an ADF 17 provided, and this ADF 17 is configured to print consecutively up to a specified number of documents from a document tray 18 a paper output tray 19 can supply. In addition, the ADF owns 17 a known structure, so that a detailed description thereof is omitted. In this embodiment, a configuration that is not compatible with the ADF can also be used 17 is provided. With such a configuration, the document cover becomes 16 opened by the user, and templates are placed on the contact glass pane.

The printer part 11 is provided with an image recording member having an ink jet recording head (not shown in the figure), and this is designed as an ink jet recording apparatus. The printer part 11 is with a refill unit 13 on the front of the multifunction device 1 (front in 1 ) and the bottom of the multifunction device 1 (below in 1 ) Mistake. In other words, the refill unit 13 in the side of the front surface 1a and the side of the floor area 1b the multifunction device 1 built-in. In this embodiment, the refill unit is 13 configured to have four ink cartridges 14 record and contain, and in these ink cartridges 14 Each black, yellow, magenta or cyan ink is stored. The ones in the ink cartridges 14 The stored ink having a respective color is supplied to the recording head through an ink tube 53 supplied (see 5 ).

There is also an opening / closing cover 20 one at the end of the front surface 1a (End of page front right in 1 ) formed opening 21 opens and closes, on the front surface of the refill unit 13 (front in 1 ) available. The opening / closing cover 20 is configured to move between a position in which they refill 13 through the opening 21 releases, and a position in which they open 21 closes and the refill unit 13 takes up, by folding forward (direction forward in 1 ) can be freely swiveled.

An opening 22 is in the middle of the front surface 1a the multifunction device 1 formed, and a paper feed cassette (not shown in the figure) is in this opening 22 arranged (in 1 the state is shown with the paper feed cassette taken out). After the recording paper fed from the paper feed cassette is conveyed to the rear side, it is conveyed upward and finally fed to the front side, and images are recorded on the recording paper while the recording paper is fed. The recording paper is then discharged into a paper output tray (not shown in the figure) at the upper part of the paper feed cassette in the opening 22 is available.

A control panel 30 is at the top of the front surface side of the multifunction device 1 (upper part of the front surface in 1 ) appropriate. This control panel 30 is a keypad for the purpose of the operations of the printer part 11 and the scanner part 12 and is with different control buttons 31 - 34 and a liquid crystal display part 35 Mistake. The different, on the control panel 30 arranged control buttons 31 - 34 are connected to a control device (or a control board, not shown in the figure) which is used as a control device for controlling essential functions by means of flat cables, which are not shown in the figure. In addition to processing commands from the various control buttons 31 - 34 the controller processes commands from the previously described receiver 2 and controls the operation of the Multifunktionsvor direction 1 , In cases where a device such as a personal computer with the multifunction device 1 is connected, the control device also controls the operation of the multi-functional device 1 based on instructions sent by this personal computer in addition to the instructions from the control panel 30 ,

The slot part 23 , through which recording media such as various memory cards can be loaded, is on the bottom of the control panel 30 (below in 1 ) intended. Image data is stored on the memory card, and the image data read out from the memory card (or information related to image data) is recorded on the liquid crystal display part 35 displayed. The device is configured to display any images on the liquid crystal display 35 be displayed, then by pressing the control panel 30 can be recorded on recording paper.

Next is the refill unit 13 with reference to the 2 - 6 described. 2 is an oblique view of the refill unit 13 , 3 is a side view of the state in which the flap 41 the refill unit 13 is open. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the refill unit 13 through the line IV-IV of 2 , where the condition with installed ink cartridges 14 is shown. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the refill unit 13 through the line VV of 2 , where the condition with installed ink cartridges 14 is shown. 6 is an exploded, perspective view of the flap 41 the refill unit 13 , The 3 and 4 illustrate the state in which the needle forming element 48 is removed.

As shown in 2 is the refill unit 13 primarily with a housing 40 , in the ink cartridges 14 inserted and removed therefrom, and one with this housing 40 connected flap 41 Mistake. The housing 40 is formed overall as an approximately rectangular parallelepiped, and as in 4 is shown, are in their interior receiving chambers 50 (Accommodation parts), which ink cartridges 14 pick up and contain, separated and trained. In this embodiment, the housing 40 four receiving chambers 50 on, and four ink cartridges 14 are each in the receiving chambers 50 used and removed from it. The surface shape of the inner wall of each receiving chamber 50 is designed to delimit a space from the outer shape of the ink cartridge 14 corresponds, and if each ink cartridge 14 in housing 40 is installed, it is without freedom of movement inside the housing 40 held.

As shown in 2 is the case 40 with a bottom plate part 42 , to the left and right side of this bottom plate part 42 existing side panel parts 43 (the side plate part 43 on the left rear side is in 2 not shown), and a ceiling panel part 44 which is positioned so that it is the space between each side panel part 43 overlaps, provided, and the interior of the receiving chambers 50 is also with partition parts 47 (please refer 4 ) for the subdivision of each receiving chamber 50 Mistake. The number of partition wall parts provided 47 is by the number of ink cartridges 14 certainly, in the case 40 are recorded, and the positions in which they are arranged are determined by the thicknesses of the ink cartridges 14 determined in the broad direction. As shown in 4 are formed in a rib shape partitions 47 from the top and bottom of the bottom plate part 42 and the ceiling panel part 44 out present. In addition, the partition wall parts need 47 not every receiving chamber 50 completely subdivided so that they can have any shape as long as the shape of at least one of the bottom plate part 42 or ceiling panel part 44 projects inward and the space between adjacent receiving chambers 50 divides.

As well as in 2 is shown, is an open recess 40a (Opening part) on the back of the housing 40 (in the back right in 2 ), and the needle forming member 48 is in this recess 40a fitted. A needle 49 (Removal element) for removing the ink inside the ink cartridges 14 is on the needle forming element 48 according to the number of ink cartridges 14 trained in the receiving chambers 50 of the housing 40 are included.

As shown in 5 the needle extends 49 along the direction of the opening 45 of the housing 40 and in an approximately horizontal direction (ink cartridge installation direction) in the state in which the needle forming element 48 into the recess 40a is used. If an ink cartridge 14 in a receiving chamber 50 will be installed, this needle will 49 in an ink supply part 120 (please refer 8th ) of the ink cartridge 14 pushed in, and depressing a supply valve 620 (please refer 22 ) of the ink supply mechanism 500 (please refer 22 ), an ink supply path is formed. The needle 49 communicates with the ink discharge port 52 on the back of the case 40 (right side of 5 ) projects upwards, and an ink tube 53 is with this ink discharge opening 52 connected. The ink tube 53 is connected to an ink-jet recording head (not shown in the figure) and is adapted to the ink inside the ink cartridges 14 supply to the ink jet recording head.

The channel 54 for introducing ambient air into the ink cartridges 14 is on the side wall of the housing 40 formed, which is the top of the needle 49 forms (in 5 above). If the ink in the ink cartridges 14 through the needle 49 is removed, ambient air corresponding to the extracted ink passes through the channel 54 and gets into the ink cartridges 14 introduced.

Further, at the top of the channel 54 a lead 55 formed on the side of the ink cartridge 14 out (left side of 5 ) protrudes. This lead 55 is a guide projection that fits in housing passages 214b2 and 224b2 fitted as described below (see 8th ). If further made, an ink cartridge 14 installing in an orientation where the top is down, this is reversed insertion of the ink cartridge 14 through this projection 55 avoided. A detailed description of how to reverse the insertion of the ink cartridge 14 is prevented, is given below. A detailed description of the internal structure of the ink cartridge 14 is also given below.

On the back of the case 40 is a residual ink detection sensor 57 , the height of the ink liquid level (residual ink) inside the ink cartridge 14 captured between the needle 49 and the channel 54 available. This waste ink detection sensor 57 is an optical transmission sensor with a light emitting part 57a and a light receiver part 57b and is in correspondence with the number of ink cartridges 14 present in reception chambers 50 are included. The waste ink detection sensor 57 is present in a position corresponding to the detection part 140 (please refer 8th ) of the ink cartridge 14 corresponds to the state in which the ink cartridge 14 inside the receiving chamber 50 is received, and is arranged in a position in which the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b both sides of the capturing part 140 the inside of the receiving chamber 50 recorded ink cartridge 14 between them (see 18 (b) ). The waste ink detection sensor 57 is connected to a control device, and that in each ink cartridge 14 Stored residual ink amount is constantly monitored by this control device.

A rib 44a is on the ceiling panel part 44 present, thereby increasing the rigidity of the housing 40 to improve. In addition, the ceiling panel part 44 with a pivot lever mechanism 44b Mistake. A tension spring is between the pivot lever mechanism 44b and the ceiling panel part 44 attached, and the pivot lever mechanism 44b is always elastic in the direction of the flap 41 preloaded (front left in 2 ; left in the 3 - 5 ). The pivot lever mechanism 44b is configured to be in the housing 41 (Receiving chamber 50 ) protruding ends with locking parts 217a and 227a (please refer 8th ) of the ink cartridge 14 cooperate, for example, in a state in which it is elastically biased. The in the case 40 installed ink cartridge 14 This can be reliably held.

The opening 45 is on the front surface of the case 40 present (insertion opening through which the ink cartridge 14 is installed). This opening 45 is at each of the receiving chambers 50 available. In other words, each receiving chamber 50 one after the other inside the case 40 at every opening 45 present, and the four ink cartridges 14 are each through the openings 45 in every receiving chamber 50 used and removed from it.

The flap 41 opens and closes the opening 45 and is at every opening 45 available. The position of the flap 41 is variable between a position in which they open 45 closes (locking position) as in the case of the 1st, 3rd and 4th flap 41 from the back in 2 and a position in which they open 45 opens (open position) as in the case of the 2nd flap 41 from the back left in 2 , causing the opening 45 can be opened and closed. When the fold 41 is in the locking position, the ink cartridge 14 reliable inside the receiving chamber 50 held, and when the fold 41 is in the open position, the ink cartridge 14 easy in the receiving chamber 50 used and removed from it.

It will now build the flap 41 with reference to 6 described in detail. The flap 41 is with the flap main body 60 , on this flap main body 60 existing pressing element 61 , the flap locking element 62 (Locking pin) holding the flap 41 on the housing 40 fastened (locked), and the release lever 63 that's the flap 41 from the attached state releases provided. The flap main body 60 , the pressing element 61 , the flap locking element 62 and the release lever 63 are each molded using plastics.

As shown in 6 is the flap main body 60 formed approximately as a small plate with the shape of a long and narrow rectangle. The external form of the valve main body 60 is the shape of the opening 45 of the housing 40 trained accordingly. The rotary shaft part 64 , the lower part of the front surface of the housing 40 is worn is at the lower end of the valve main body 60 (Bottom end in 6 ) educated. In particular, the bearing part 42a at the front end of the bottom plate part 42 of the housing 40 trained (see 2 . 3 and 4 ), and the rotary shaft part 64 is so in this camp part 42a fitted that he can turn freely. As a result, the valve main body 60 the opening 45 Close by folding up or the opening 45 open by folding down.

The pull-out element 65 as a unit with the flap main body 60 is formed is at the lower end of the valve main body 60 available. This pull-out element 65 is formed approximately with an L-shape and has an extension part 65a and a hook part 65b on. The extension part 65a is at the bottom of the flaps main body 60 (Rotary shaft part 64 ) connected, and the hook part 65b is connected so that it is connected to the extension part 65a forms an angle of 90 °.

When the fold 41 is in the locking position (in 4 shown state), is the tip of the hook part 65b further upwards than the installation surface 51 the receiving chamber 50 (the bottom surface inside the receiving chamber 50 , which is the bottom surface of the ink cartridge 14 contacted; please refer 4 ). The flap main body 60 turns around the turning part 64 as a center of rotation, so that the L-shaped pull-out element 65 around the turning part 64 turns as a turning center. If the flap 41 in the open position (in 3 shown state) turns, the hook part rotates 65b of the pull-out element 65 around the turning part 64 as turning center. Here then the outer wall surface shifts 65c due to the rotation of the hook part 65b from a state in which it is approximately vertical (in 4 shown state), in an approximately horizontal state (in 3 shown state). The length of the extension part 65a of the pull-out element 65 is set to a predetermined amount so that the outer wall surface 65c upon rotation of the hook part 65b slightly higher than the installation surface 51 of the housing 40 and approximately parallel to the installation surface 51 is.

The outer wall surface 65c serves as a guide surface containing the ink cartridge 14 in the state in which the flap 41 in the open position, on the installation surface 51 inside the receiving chamber 50 leads. Thus, the pull-out serves 65 not just as an element for pulling out the ink cartridge 14 from the receiving chamber 50 but also as a guide member when inserting the ink cartridge 14 in the receiving chamber 50 ,

In this embodiment, two Ausziehelemente 65 on each flap main body 60 available. In other words, the pull-out elements 65 configured to be in the width direction of the flap main body 60 are arranged opposite to each other and the ink cartridge 14 support them by sandwiching them in the slurry direction. In addition, in this embodiment, the distance between each of the Ausziehelemente 65 smaller than the width direction of the ink cartridge 14 set.

A nose 61a is on both sides of the pressure element 61 so that it protrudes outwards from the side surface, and a nose receiving part 60a in which the nose 61a is received on the flap main body 60 available. The nose receiving part 60a consists of a groove extending in a direction approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the valve main body 60 (Vertical direction in 6 ). The nose 61a is so in the nose receiving part 60a fitted so that it is sliding freely sliding, whereby the pressure element 61 is carried so that it is in a direction to the longitudinal direction of the valve main body 60 vertical direction can move back and forth. In other words, the pressure element 61 the positions change between a protruding position, in which it over the inner surface of the flap main body 60 protrudes (the in 3 and a retracted position in which it protrudes from the protruding position into the side of the flap main body 60 is withdrawn (the in 4 shown state). There is also a coil spring 66 between the pressing element 61 and the valve main body 60 arranged. This is the pressing element 61 elastically biased so that it is always in the protruding position.

When the fold 41 is in the locking position, contacts the pressing member 61 the side surface of the ink cartridge 14 and is caused by the pressure resistance of the ink cartridge 14 moved to the side of the retracted position (the in 4 shown state). As a result, the ink cartridge decreases 14 over the pressure element 61 the elastic force of the coil spring 66 on and is against the back of the case 40 (reverse side in the installation direction of the ink cartridge 14 ). Therefore, the ink cartridge 14 held in a state in which they are relative to the housing 40 is positioned.

In this embodiment, the pressing element 61 formed in the form of a flat plate, while the wall surface 61b this pressing element 61 (the area that the side surface of the ink cartridge 14 contacted when the flap 41 in the locking position) is formed as a flat surface, and a pair of raised stripes 61c is on this wall surface 61b educated. Therefore, if the flap 41 is in the locking position, contact these strips 61c the side surface of the ink cartridge 14 and put pressure on her.

In addition, the pressing element 61 configured so that it is slightly below the center position in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge 14 (Vertical direction in 4 ) when it is in the locked position. In other words, the pressing element 61 in a position where it is below the center position in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge 14 contacted and pressed. This has the purpose of improving the operating characteristics in the event that the user opens the door 41 actuated. If the Andrückele ment 61 for example, in or above the center position in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge 14 is positioned, the user actuates the flap 41 by placing it near the release lever 63 holding, whereby the distance between the user-actuated part and the pressing element 61 is reduced. Therefore, the of the coil spring 66 of the pressing element 61 force applied and only requires a force required to operate the flap 41 sufficient. When the pressing element 61 however, below the center position in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge 14 is positioned, is the distance between the user-actuated part and the pressing element 61 larger, allowing the user the flap 41 can operate with little effort. In addition, the pressure element presses 61 if it is in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge 14 placed too far down, against the end of the ink cartridge 14 so the ink cartridge 14 sometimes in the reception room 50 is skewed and the ink cartridge 14 can not be properly held. In this embodiment, the pressing element 61 but slightly below the center position in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge 14 positioned so that the ink cartridge 14 can be properly installed or held and can be easily installed with little effort. In addition, 'below the center position' in the vertical direction means the ink cartridge 14 in that the center of the vertical direction of the pressing element 61 even lower than the center in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge 14 is positioned, and as long as this positional relationship is maintained, a portion of the upper end of the pressing member may 61 (Top edge in 4 ) above the center position of the ink cartridge 14 are located.

As will also be described below, the ink cartridge 14 this embodiment with an ink supply part 120 and an ambient air intake part 130 provided on the side surface facing the with the pressing element 61 opposite side surface, this ink supply part 120 and this ambient air intake part 130 are provided with valve mechanisms which an elastic force inherent. In other words, they have a biasing force (first and second feed springs 630 and 650 and first and second ambient air springs 730 and 750 ), which are the valves (supply valve 620 and ambient air valve 720 ) pushes it outward, allowing it the connection between the inside and the outside of the ink cartridge 14 To block. To connect the ink cartridge 14 and to allow the exterior in a reliable manner, is the elastic force of the pressure element 61 Therefore, in this embodiment, it is set to be larger than the elastic force of the valve mechanisms of the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 is. If the ink cartridge 14 in the receiving chamber 50 is installed, the ink is inside the ink cartridge 14 thus reliably supplied, and ambient air can reliably into the ink cartridge 14 be initiated. In addition, there is the ink supply part 120 at the lower end and the ambient air intake part 130 at the top in a position where the ink cartridge 14 in the receiving chamber 50 is installed so that the pressing element 61 presses against a position relatively close to the center position in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge 14 lies. As a result, the direction in which the moment acts causes better stabilization than when it is against the top or bottom of the ink cartridge 14 would press, leaving the ink cartridge 14 can be better stabilized and maintained.

The flap locking element 62 is at the top of the main valve unit 60 (End of the top in 6 ) appropriate. The flap locking element 62 includes a main shaft part 62a , a wedge part 62b which adjoins the upper end of the main shaft portion 62a (above in 6 ) to the inside of the housing 40 protrudes, and a seat part 62c (Contact part) following the lower end of the main shaft part 62a (below in 6 ) to the outside of the housing 40 protrudes.

The flap locking element 62 is supported to be relative to the valve main body 60 in the vertical direction can move back and forth (vertical direction in 6 ). A slide rail 60b extends in the vertical direction at the upper end of the valve main body 60 , A sliding groove 62d that extends in the vertical direction is at the main shaft portion 62a the flap locking element 62 available. The slide rail 60b the flap main body 60 is in this sliding groove 62d used, and the flap locking element 62 is configured to slide freely up and down.

A nose 62e is at the lower part of both sides of the wedge part 62b of the main shaft part 62a available. When the flap locking element 62 in the main valve unit 60 is fitted, is the nose 62e in the flap main body 60 existing nose receiving part 60c added. This nose receiving part 60c consists of a groove extending in the vertical direction exactly over a predetermined length. When the flap locking element 62 slides up or down, contacts the nose 62e therefore, the inner wall surface of the nose receiving part 60c , and the sliding displacement of the flap locking element 62 in the vertical direction is restricted thereby.

The sliding displacement portion of the shutter lock member 62 is through the attitude the length of the nose receiving part 60c defining groove defined to a predetermined extent. When the flap locking element 62 based on the valve main body 60 sliding upwards and the nose 62e the upper edge of the inner wall surface of the nose receiving part 60c contacted, there is the flap locking element 62 in the position where it is from the top of the flap main body 60 projecting upwards. When the flap locking element 62 based on the valve main body 60 sliding down and shoving the nose 62e the lower edge of the inner wall surface of the nose receiving part 60c contacted, there is the flap locking element 62 in the position where it faces the inside of the valve main body 60 has moved in. In the present specification, the position in which the flap locking element 62 the upper edge of the inner wall surface of the nose receiving part 60c contacted, defined as the "projecting position", and the position at which the flap locking element 62 the lower edge of the nose receiving part 60c is defined as the "retracted position".

The coil spring 67 (elastic element) is between the flap locking element 62 and the valve main body 60 arranged. This is the flap locking element 62 Elastic biased, so it always from the flap main body 60 protrudes upward, ie in the direction in which it is moved to the above position.

The top of the wedge part 62b the flap locking element 62 is an inclined surface that slopes downwards. If the flap 41 from the open position to the blocked position, thus contacting the top of the flap locking element 62 the top of the opening 45 of the housing 40 and if the flap 41 is pivoted to the locking position, the flap locking element occurs 62 inside the valve main body 60 back, while it is relatively against the top of the opening 45 is pressed. If the flap 41 then completely in the blocked position passes, is the flap locking element 62 again from the flap main body 60 before, and the wedge part 62b engages with the top edge of the case 40 one.

Here is the wedge part 62b the flap locking element 62 in a state in which it is in the locking element Einpassteil 46 is inserted (see the 2 and 5 ), which is at the top of the opening 45 of the housing 40 is available. The flap locking element 62 is resiliently biased, so it due to the coil spring 67 always from the valve main body 60 protrudes and into the locking element Einpassteil 46 is pressed into it, but the position of the Klap penverriegelungselements 62 is an intermediate position so that it is retracted slightly further toward the retracted position side than toward the protruding position side. The flap locking element 62 is always elastic against the locking element Einpassteil 46 pressed when it is in the intermediate position, so that the flap locking element 62 never easily from the locking element fitting part 46 may differ.

The release lever 63 is formed in the form of a rectangular plate and in the housing 40 attached state at the top of the outside of the flap main body 60 appropriate. The flap main body 60 is with a recording part 60d provided, the unlocking lever 63 receives. This recording part 60d consists of a recessed part, which is on the flap main body 60 is available. This will be described below, and if the release lever 63 changes its position, the release lever fits 63 in the receiving part 60d one.

A holding pen 63a is at the bottom of the release lever 63 available. Likewise, a pin mounting hole 60e into which the retaining pin 63a is inserted on the flap main body 60 available. Because the retaining pin 63a in this pin mounting hole 60e is inserted is the release lever 63 configured to be free around the center of rotation of the retaining pin 63a can turn. In particular, the unlocking lever 63 configured to be movable by moving the lever between a position approximately parallel to the outer surface of the flap main body 60 is a position in which it is inclined by about 45 ° (degree) (state of the flap 41 on the right in 2 ), and a position in which it is folded down almost horizontally (state of the 2nd flap 41 from the right of 2 ), can be freely rotated and moved. In the present specification, the position of the unlocking lever 63 when he is inside the receiving part 60d is recorded as the "recorded position" defined, and the position of the release lever 63 when the release lever 63 inclined by about 45 °, defined as the "neutral position" while the position of the release lever 63 when it is folded down almost horizontally, as the "folded down position" is defined.

The lower end of the release lever 63 consists of the engagement cam 63b , and the engagement cam 63b used for sliding displacement of the flap locking element 62 up and down when the position of the release lever 63 will be changed. Due to the presence of the engagement cam 63b slides the flap locking element 62 from the above position through the intermediate position to the retracted position when the unlocking lever 63 is pivoted from the recorded position by the neutral position in the folded-down position. In other words, there is the release lever 63 in the recorded position, and the flap 41 is closed when the flap locking element 62 is in the protruding position, and in the state in which the flap locking element 62 the locking element Einpassteil 46 of the housing 40 contacted, the release lever 63 be moved freely between the recorded position and the neutral position. Here is the center position of the release lever 63 adjusted so that it moves due to its own weight always in the neutral position. Because of the release lever 63 reached the neutral position due to its own weight, it is possible to improve the operation in the folded down position.

It now becomes the basic operation of the release lever 63 described. The engagement cam 63b of the release lever 63 contacts the seat part 62c the flap locking element 62 , In the closed state of the flap 41 (in 4 illustrated state) exercises the release lever 63 over the engagement cam 63b a downward pressure in the sense of further pivoting of the flap locking element 62 out. The flap locking element 62 However, it is always through the coil spring 67 elastically biased upward, so that the flap locking element 62 solely by the weight of the release lever 63 is not moved and the flap locking element 62 held in the intermediate position.

Will the release lever 63 However, forcibly pivoted - z. B. when the user to the ink cartridge 14 to change, the release lever 63 pivoted - the release lever 63 pivoted and placed in the folded down position. When the release lever 63 is brought into the folded down position, the engagement cam rotates 63b and change the on the retaining pin 63a Centered position and presses the seat part 62c the flap locking element 62 downward. As a result, the shutter lock member moves 62 against the elastic force of the coil spring 67 down and is moved to the retracted position. When the flap locking element 62 is moved to the retracted position, the locking of the flap 41 lifted, and the flap 41 shifts from the blocked position to the open position.

The flap locking element 62 is always subject to the elastic force of the coil spring 67 , and if that on the release lever 63 acting torque disappears - in other words, when the user's hand from the release lever 63 takes - passes the flap locking element 62 in a position where it is strongest from the valve main body 60 protrudes, and the release lever 63 is forcibly moved to the recorded position. In other words, there is the release lever 63 in that position where he almost completely in the flap main body 60 is included when the flap 41 is in the open position. When replacing the ink cartridge 14 is a pivoting with the rotary shaft part 64 as the turning center therefore possible up to the point where the flap 41 almost horizontal, because of the locking lever 92 almost completely inside the valve main unit 60 is added, so that the user the ink cartridge 14 easy to replace. In addition, the two stripes act 61c on the wall surface 616 of the pressing element 61 are present when picking up the ink cartridge 14 inside the receiving chamber 50 also in cooperation with a guide part between the hook parts 65b as guides. In other words, if the ink cartridge 14 in the receiving part 50 can be used, the user can the bottom surface of the ink cartridge 14 on the stripes 61c Put on the tip part of the ink cartridge 14 between the hook parts 65b place, and then the ink cartridge 14 on the receiving chamber 50 Press down. To the ink cartridge 14 from the receiving chamber 50 The user should also remove them between the hook parts 65b Take out the bottom surface of the ink cartridge 14 the top of the stripes 61c reached.

During normal use of the multifunction device 1 is the flap 41 the refill unit 13 closed, and the release lever 63 is in the neutral position. As shown in 1 is the release lever 63 inclined to the front surface side when the opening / closing cover 20 opened to the ink cartridge 14 exchange. This results in the advantage that the user the release lever 63 easy to operate. As well as in 1 is shown, is the refill unit 13 on the front surface 1a the multifunction device 1 arranged; So if the release lever 63 is brought into the neutral position (when it is inclined to the front surface side), it is necessary to a space that is wide enough to the refill unit 13 inside the multifunction device 1 to secure. Therefore, it is necessary to refill 13 further back from the edge of the opening 21 place, which results in the risk that the outer dimensions of the multi-function device 1 grow. In this Ausfüh Appropriately, the unlocking lever 63 however, be freely pivoted between the neutral position and the picked position when the flap 41 relative to the housing 40 is in the blocked position so that the refill unit 13 near the edge of the opening 21 can be placed. This is because even if the refill unit 13 at the edge of the opening 21 is placed, the inner wall surface of the opening / closing cover 20 the release lever 63 contacted when the opening / closing cover 20 is closed, and if the opening / closing cover 20 is completely closed, the release lever 63 in which the picked-up position moves by passing through the opening / closing cover 20 is pressed. Therefore, in this embodiment, a compact design of the multi-function device 1 be realized.

Next are the ink cartridges 14 used in this embodiment with reference to FIGS 7 to 13 described. The ink cartridges 14 have the function to store ink in advance, and in the ink cartridges 14 each cyan, magenta, yellow and black color ink is stored. With regard to the structure of each ink cartridge 14 however, it is the ink cartridge 14 that stores black ink, designed to be slightly thicker than the ink cartridges 14 for storing the differently colored inks. The reason for this is that black ink is generally most needed and consumed in large quantities, and because black ink is made of pigmented inks, while color inks are colored inks, so that large amounts of color ink must be used for the recovery process. when black ink is mixed with color ink. As a result, the outer shape of the black ink cartridge is made large-sized, so that color ink and black ink can be visually recognized. In addition, there are ink cartridges 14 for storing color inks all formed with a same shape.

First, the color ink cartridges 14 for storing color ink with reference to 7 to 9 described. 7 is an oblique view of the appearance of a color ink cartridge 14 , 8th is an exploded perspective view of the color ink cartridge 14 , 9 is a schematic representation of the protective cap 300 wherein (a) is a plan view of the protective cap 300 from the perspective of IXa of 8th while (b) is a cross-sectional view of the protective cap 300 through the line IXb-IXb of 9 (a) is. In the following description, the X direction indicates the longitudinal direction of the ink cartridge 14 (Casing 200 , Ink supply element 100 ), the Y direction orthogonal to the X direction, the height direction of the ink cartridge 14 (Casing 200 , Ink supply element 100 ), and the Z direction orthogonal to the X direction and the Y direction is the width direction (thickness direction) of the ink cartridge 14 (Casing 200 , Ink supply element 100 ) at. The in 8th Arrow B shown is parallel to the X direction, which is the longitudinal direction of the ink cartridge 14 indicates, and indicates the direction in which the ink cartridge 14 in the refill unit 13 will be installed.

As shown in 7 is the color ink cartridge 14 with a housing 200 provided, the approximately the entire body of the ink reservoir element 100 to save ink (see 8th ) and with a protective cap 300 attached to this case 200 is mounted and the ink reservoir element 100 when inserting the ink cartridge 14 protects. How out 7 it can be seen, is the housing 200 as a rectangular parallelepiped with a pair of mutually opposed major surfaces 210a and 220a formed (this is in the case explained below 1200 and 2200 equal). In this embodiment, the Tintenvorratele element 100 , the case 200 , the protective cap 300 , and all of the items described below, in the ink cartridge 14 are formed of plastic materials and contain no metallic materials, so that they can be burned in their disposal. As the plastic materials, for example, nylon, polyester or polypropylene may be used.

As shown in 8th is the ink reservoir element 100 primarily with a frame part 110 provided with an ink reservoir 111 for storing ink (interior and pantry including the ink reservoir 111 ), an ink supply part 120 that in this frame part 110 Multi-function device stored ink 1 feeds (see 1 ), an ambient air intake part 130 , the ambient air in the frame part 110 introduces a detection part 140 (irradiated part), which is used for the detection of the frame part 110 stored residual ink amount is present, an ink output part 150 , the ink in the frame part 110 and a slide 160 on both sides of the frame part 110 (both upper and lower surface in 8th ) is welded to an ink reservoir chamber on the frame part 110 to build. Descriptions of the frame part 110 , the ink supply part 120 , the ambient air intake part 130 , the detection part 140 , the ink ejection part 150 as well as the foil 160 and the method of manufacturing the ink reservoir 100 will be given below.

The housing 200 has two housing elements 210 and 220 on which the ink reservoir element 100 from above and below (top and bottom in 8th ; Z-direction) between them. The first housing element 210 is an element that defines the lower side surface of the ink reservoir element 100 in 8th covers, and the second housing element 220 is an element which is the upper side surface of the ink reservoir element 100 in 8th covers. The first and the second housing element 210 and 220 consist of plastic materials and are manufactured by injection molding. The depths of the first and second housing elements 210 and 220 (Lengths in the upward direction of 8th (Lengths in the Z direction)) are made to be approximately equal, and are formed such that the sum of these depths is approximately equal to the thickness of the ink reservoir member 100 is. As a result, the distance between the ink pre ratelement 100 and the inner surface of the housing 200 low (the gap becomes narrow), so the amount of deformation of the housing 200 even if it is low, if an inward pressure from the outside of the housing 200 is exerted, causing damage to the housing 200 can be reduced.

The first housing element 210 has a plate-shaped part, which is the main surface 210a and the vertical wall parts 210b - 210e forms in approximately orthogonal directions (vertical directions and Z direction in 8th ) from the outer edge portions of the four sides of this plate-shaped part. What the vertical wall parts 210d - 210e is concerned, so is 210b the vertical wall, which is the side of the protective cap 300 of the first housing element 210 forms, which are opposite to this vertical wall part 210b arranged vertical wall is 210c , and the vertical walls, with the vertical wall parts 210c respectively. 210b are connected, the vertical wall parts 210d and 210e (right in 8th the vertical wall part 210d and left in 8th the vertical wall part 210d ).

Two housing recesses 211 and 212 for the purpose of the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 to the outside of the housing 200 towards free, are on the vertical wall part 210b of the first housing element 210 educated. The housing recesses 211 and 212 are with an approximately semicircular shape from the edges of the vertical wall part 210b formed here, and the housing recess 211 front right in 8th is a recess corresponding to the ink supply part 120 corresponds while the housing recess 212 back left in 8th a recess that is the ambient air inlet part 130 equivalent. The right-angled housing recess 213 , which is recessed with a rectangular shape, is between the housing recess 211 and the housing recess 212 formed and provides a recess for the insertion of the residual ink detection sensor 57 (please refer 5 ) at the position where he the detection part 140 encloses from two sides. The contact groove 211 including the ink supply part 120 contacted, is formed on the inner surface, which is located on the housing recess 211 of the first housing element 210 connects, and the contact groove 212b that the ambient air intake part 130 contacted, is formed on the inner surface, which is located on the housing recess 212 of the first housing element 210 followed. The presence of these contact grooves 212a and 212b makes the alignment of the ink reservoir element 100 with the first housing element 210 easy.

Moreover, on the first housing element 210 two housing protrusions 214a and 214b formed in the direction of the protective cap 300 towards (front left and X direction in 8th ) protrude from the surface on which the housing recesses 211 - 213 are formed (vertical wall part 210b ). The housing protrusions 214a and 214b are on both sides of the first housing element 210 in the Y direction (right front end and left rear end of 8th ), so that they the housing recesses 211 to 213 between them, and the side of the ink supply part 120 (right front in 8th ) is the housing projection 214a while the side of the ambient air intake part 130 (left behind in 8th ) of the housing projection 214b is. The housing projection 214a has an inclined surface 214a2 on that in the direction of the housing recesses 211 to 213 (Inner direction of the first housing element 210 ) of the portion that abuts the outer surface of the vertical wall portion 210d of the housing element 210 connects (direction of the protective cap 300 ; to the left and to the front in 8th ), is inclined to the edge. If the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 to be installed (see 1 ), it is installed so that the housing protrusion 214a located on the bottom. When installing the ink cartridge 14 becomes the ink cartridge 14 Therefore, due to the inclination, smoothly guided to the predetermined installation position when the inclined surface 214a2 the lower wall part 41 the refill unit 13 contacted.

At the housing projection 214a is a Gehäusevorsprungausnehmung 214a1 , which is recessed with a rectangular shape, formed on the inner surface, which is the side of the recesses 211 to 213 forms. At the housing projection 214b is also a Gehäusevorsprungausnehmung 214b1 , which is also recessed with a rectangular shape, formed on the inner surface, which is the side of the Gehäuseausnehmungen 211 to 213 forms. These housing projection recesses 214a1 and 214b1 are available to a self-detaching the protective cap 300 in the to stood to prevent, in which the protective cap 300 on the housing 200 attached, and the projecting parts 330a1 and 330b1 the protective cap 300 , which are described below, are fitted in these parts (see 9 ).

In addition, the housing passport groove 214b2 , which as Einpassteil for the first protective cap fitting 320 the protective cap described below 300 (please refer 9 ) is used on the housing projection 214b educated. This housing passport groove 214b2 is over a portion of the vertical wall part 210e from the edge of the housing projection 214b (Edge on the side of the protective cap 300 ) formed ago.

In addition, a pin element 215a in the direction of the second housing element 220 (Z direction) near the vertical wall part 210d on the side of the ink supply part 120 protrudes (right front in 8th ) and the position of the inside of the housing 200 sealed ink reservoir element 100 determined, and pin elements 215b and 215c in the direction of the second housing element 220 (Z direction) near the vertical wall part 210e on the side of the ambient air intake part 130 protrude (left behind in 8th ) and the position of the inside of the housing 200 seal sealed ink supply element, on the first housing element 210 educated. The position of the ink reservoir element 100 is through the three places of these pin elements 215a to 215c determined so that they attach the ink reservoir element 100 can prevent in wrong directions.

The second housing element 220 has a plate-shaped part, which is the main surface 220a and the vertical wall parts 220b to 220e forms in approximately orthogonal directions (vertical direction and Z direction in 8th ) are present from the outer edge portions of the four sides of this plate-shaped part. What the vertical wall parts 220b to 220e is concerned, so is 220b the vertical wall, which is the side of the protective cap 300 of the second housing element 220 forms, the vertical wall, opposite to this vertical wall part 220b is arranged is 220c , and the vertical walls, each with the vertical wall part 220c respectively. 220b are connected, the vertical wall parts 220d and 220e (the right side of 8th is the vertical wall part 220d , and the left side of 8th is the vertical wall part 220d ).

The second housing element 220 has a symmetrical structure, which is to the first housing element 210 is approximately symmetrical. As with the first housing element 210 are three housing recesses 221 to 223 on the vertical wall part 220b formed, further comprising a to the housing recess 221 subsequent contact groove 221a and a to the housing recess 222 subsequent contact groove 222a are formed. The housing recesses 221 and 222 are with the same shapes as the housing recesses 211 and 212 of the first housing element 210 formed (approximately semi-circular shapes), and the housing recess 223 is with the same shape as the housing recess 213 of the first housing element 210 formed (approximately rectangular shape). In addition, housing protrusions 224a and 224b on both sides of the housing recesses 221 to 223 formed, and the housing projection 224a has an inclined surface 224a2 on that in the direction of the housing recesses 221 to 223 from the section, which adjoins the outer surface of the vertical wall part 210d of the second housing element 220 connects, is inclined to the edge. The Gehäusevorsprungausnehmung 224A1 (not shown in the figure) is on the housing projection 224a formed, and the Gehäusevorsprungausnehmung 224b1 and the housing fitting groove 224b2 are on the housing protrusion 224b over a portion of the vertical wall part 220e from the edge of the housing protrusion 224b educated. On the second housing element 220 are passport parts 225a to 225c (not shown in the figure) with openings into which the pin elements 215a - 215c after passing in the direction of the first housing member 210 (Z direction), according to the positions of the pin elements 215a to 215c of the first housing element 210 educated.

As described above, the first housing member 210 and the second housing element 220 of the housing 200 are formed approximately in the same shape, and when they are in the state in which they the ink reservoir element 100 are approximately circular through holes forming a portion of the ink supply member 120 let out to the outside, through the housing recesses 211 and 221 formed during approximately circular passage openings, which is a portion of the ambient air inlet part 130 let out to the outside, through the housing recesses 212 and 222 educated. Through holes into which the waste ink detection sensor 57 (please refer 5 ) can be used on both sides of the detection part 140 (top and bottom in 8th ; both sides in the Z direction) through the housing recess holes 213 and 223 and the side wall of the detection part 140 educated. In addition, a protrusion ("first protruding part" or "other protruding part") contributing to contamination of the refill unit 13 To prevent with ink, install the cartridge in the refill unit 13 in a wrong position, and damage to the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 to ver prevent, through the housing projection 214a and the housing protrusion 224a formed, and a projection ("second protruding part", or "a projecting part"), which contributes to the said installation in a wrong position together with that of the housing projection 214a and housing projection 224a to prevent formed projection and damage of parts such as the ink supply member 120 To prevent is through the housing projection 214b and the housing protrusion 224b educated. These protrusions are described in detail below. As well as out 8th The ink supply part is apparent 120 closer to the projection from the housing projection 214a and the housing projection 224a formed as the projection through the housing projection 214b and the housing protrusion 224b is formed. A passage opening into which the projecting part 330a1 the protective cap 300 (please refer 9 ) is loosely inserted, is formed by the Gehäusevorsprungausnehmungen 214a1 and 224A1 formed, and a through hole into which the projecting part 330b1 the protective cap 300 (please refer 9 ) is loosely inserted, is formed by the Gehäusevorsprungausnehmungen 214b1 and 224b1 formed while a fitting groove with the shape of an approximately rectangular parallelepiped, in which the first protective cap fitting 320 the protective cap 300 (please refer 9 ) is inserted from the Gehäusepassnuten 214b2 and 224b2 is formed.

As is apparent from the above explanations, have the first housing member 210 and the second housing element 220 not only the same general appearance, but are designed so that also details such as the housing protrusions 214a . 214b . 224a , and 224b and the housing recesses 211 to 213 and 221 to 223 have the same shapes. Therefore, when the first housing element 210 and the second housing element 220 are molded of plastic, the shapes of their molds are similar, whereby costs associated with the design of the molds can be reduced.

Next is the outer shape of the case 200 described. On the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 are vertical wall parts 210d . 210e . 220d and 220e (Side surfaces of both sides) in directions (Y-direction) which are orthogonal to the longitudinal direction B (X-direction, which is right rear in 8th and left in front 8th links; Arrow B in 8th ) are formed as recessed shapes, and steps are related to the major surfaces 210a and 220a (Surfaces) of the first and second housing elements 210 and 220 educated. The first and the second housing element 210 and 220 are welded to these step portions, and the ink reservoir element 110 is on the case 200 attached. As for these step portions, the step portions are on the side of the ink supply part 120 (right front in 8th ) first Gehäuseldschweissteile 216 and 226 and the step portions on the side of the ambient air intake part 130 (left behind in 8th ) are second Gehäuseldschweissteile 217 and 227 ,

In the following explanation, the longitudinal direction B of the first and second housing members 210 and 220 (Direction parallel to the X direction) on the longitudinal direction of the ink cartridge 14 , the longitudinal direction of the ink reservoir element 100 , and the longitudinal direction of the housing 200 ,

There will now be the first and second Gehäuseverschweissteil 226 and 227 of the second housing 220 described. The first housing welded part 226 is with the housing projection 224a connected in a same plane and points to the housing projection 224a opposite side of a depression part 226a on, having a recessed shape in the direction toward the inside of the second housing element 220 is formed out, as well as an engaging part 226b , with the pull-out element 65 the flap 41 engages (see 6 ) when the ink cartridge 14 from the refill unit 13 is removed (see 1 ). The deepening part 226a is an area for setting the rotation range when pivoting the pull-out member 65 , The housing welding part 227 has a locking part 227a on, with a recessed shape in an approximate intermediate position of the longitudinal direction B of the second housing element 220 is formed, and this locking part 227a is a part of the swing lever mechanism 44b (please refer 2 ) engages while in the refill unit 13 is installed.

Although no detailed description is given here, the first housing element is also used 210 a deepening part 216a (not shown in the figure), an engaging part 216b (not shown in the figure), and a locking part 217a (not shown in the figure) formed with approximately the same shapes as the recess part 226a , the engaging part 226b and the locking part 227a of the second housing element 220 are formed.

Next is the protective cap 300 with reference to the 8th and 9 described. 9 is a schematic representation of the protective cap 300 , in which 9 (a) a plan view of the protective cap 300 from the perspective of IXa in 8th is while 9 (b) a cross-sectional view of the protective cap 300 through the line IXb-IXb in 9 (a) is. The protective cap 300 is an element for protecting the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 , and in particular the ink reservoir element 100 when shipping the ink cartridge 14 , The protective cap 300 consists of a plastic material and is injection molded produced.

As shown in 8th is a protective cap passage opening 310 at one point of the protective cap 300 formed, which is the side of the ambient air inlet part 130 (left behind in 8th ) at the bottom surface. The reason for this is that the valve opening part 721a for actuating the ambient air valve 720 (please refer 33 ) from the ambient air intake part 130 protrudes outwardly, and the protective cap passage opening 310 is designed so that it has this valve opening part 721a protects.

As in the top view of 9 (a) is a first protective cap fitting 320 into the from the housing pass grooves 214b2 and 224b2 ausgebil dete Passnut (see 8th ) is inserted near the end of the side of the protective cap passage opening 310 the protective cap 300 formed (left in 9 (a) ). The second protective cap fitting 330a into the housing protrusion recesses 214a1 and 224A1 formed through opening is inserted (see 8th ) and the protective cap 300 on the housing 200 is attached, is formed in the vicinity of the end of the side opposite to the side on which the first protective cap fitting 320 is formed (right in 9 (a) ), and the second protective cap fitting 330b extending into the housing projection recesses 214b1 and 224b1 formed through opening is inserted (see 8th ) and the protective cap 300 on the housing 200 attached, is between the first cap passport part 320 and the protective cap passage opening 310 available.

In addition, protective cover insert parts 340a and 340b that are loose in the housing recesses 213 and 223 and the side wall of the detection part 140 formed through holes are used (see 8th ), approximately in intermediate positions in the longitudinal direction C of the protective cap 300 formed (Y-direction in the 8th and 9 ). The protective cover insert parts 340a and 340b are connected to both side walls, which are parallel to the longitudinal direction C (upper and lower wall in 9 (a) ) are formed, and are formed so that they protrude upward (X-direction to the sheet front side back in 9 (a) and on the side of the ink reservoir element 100 in 8th ). Several ribs are from the bottom surface of the protective cap 300 formed, and these ribs maintain the strength of the cap 300 ,

A first protective cap passport part 320 is positioned so that it is in a direction parallel to one of the longitudinal direction C of the protective cap 300 orthogonal direction (vertical direction in 9 (a) ; X-direction), and consists of a vertical cap wall 321 coming from the bottom wall of the protective cap 300 is present, and two vertical cap walls 322 which are connected to the side wall on the side leading to the protective cap passage opening 310 from the vertical cap wall 321 is opposite (left in 9 (a) ). As shown in 9 (b) There is every vertical cap wall 322 from an upper part parallel to the vertical cap wall 321 from the upper end of the first protective cap fitting 320 (upper end in 9 (b) ) is formed, and a lower part, with the side wall of the protective cap 300 from an approximate intermediate position in the direction of protrusion of the first cap fitting 320 (up in 9 (b) ; X direction), and they have steps.

The result is the vertical protective cap wall 321 and the top of the vertical cap wall 322 inserted into the fitting groove when in the housing of the passport grooves 214b2 and 224b2 formed Passnut are used (see 8th ). When the first protective cap fitting part 320 is inserted into the fitting groove, its insertion through the two ends of the vertical cap wall 321 extending in the Z direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction C (Y direction) and the end of the vertical cap wall 322 limited in the longitudinal direction C. If in this case the first protective cap fitting part 320 with approximately the same shape as that of the Gehäusepassnuten 214b2 and 224b2 formed Passnut is formed (see 8th ), requires the attachment of the protective cap 300 Time and effort, and if the cap passport part 320 is much smaller than the fitting groove, the position of the attachment direction of the protective cap 300 not be determined. Because of their insertion through the vertical cap walls 321 and 322 on a surface (flat surface of the vertical cap wall 321 ) and four points (ends of both sides of the vertical cap wall 321 and two ends of the vertical cap wall 322 ) is limited, but the installation suitability of the cap 300 improved, and a wrong installation can be prevented.

As shown in 9 (b) are the projecting parts 330a1 and 330b1 protruding away from each other at the edges of the second coping fitment 330a and 330b formed in the direction in which the second protective cap fittings 330a and 330b separate from each other (edges on top in 9 (b) ), and shaft parts 330a2 and 330b2 , which are formed with an approximately cylindrical shape, are in the direction of the bottom surface of the protective cap 300 formed from these edges (down in 9 (b) ). The shaft parts 330a2 and 330b2 possess elasticity, because the protective cap 300 made of a plastic material is formed from, and the protective cap 300 becomes under elastic deformation of the second protective cap fittings 330a and 330b attached to the inside and removed.

It will now be the black ink cartridge 14 with reference to the 10 and 11 described. 10 is an oblique view showing the appearance of the black ink cartridge 14 shows. 11 is an exploded oblique view of the black ink cartridge 14 ,

As shown in the 10 and 11 is the black ink cartridge 14 configured so that its outer profile wider (with a greater thickness (length in the Z direction)) than that of the color ink cartridges 14 is. In particular, the second housing element 220 for the training of the housing 1200 is with the second housing element 220 identical for color ink, and the first housing element 1210 for the training of the housing 1200 is formed to be thicker (with a longer length in the Z direction) than the first case member 210 is for color ink. The ink reservoir element 100 has a sufficient capacity to store black ink and therefore has the same shape as the color ink supply element 100 configures and uses the same parts. In addition, the protective cap 1300 in correspondence with the housing 1200 is formed and is formed to be thicker in the vertical direction (Z direction) than the protective cap 300 is. Therefore, the black ink cartridge 14 with respect to the first housing element 1210 and descriptions of the second housing member 220 , the ink reservoir element 100 and the protective cap 1300 is omitted here. Only the depth of the first housing element 1210 (the thickness of the vertical directions (length of the Z direction) in 11 ) is that of the first housing member 210 different, and the rest of its configuration is the same, so here is a detailed description is omitted.

As shown in 11 has the first housing element 1210 a plate-shaped part on which the main surface 1210a forms, as well as vertical wall parts 1210b to 1210e , which in approximately orthogonal directions (vertical directions and Z direction in 11 ) are provided from the outer edge portions of the four sides of this plate-shaped part. What the vertical wall parts 1210b to 1210e is concerned, so is 1210b the vertical wall of the first housing element 1210 on the side of the protective cap 1300 . 1210c is the to this vertical wall part 1210b oppositely placed vertical wall, and the vertical walls, each with the vertical wall parts 1210c and 1210b are connected, the vertical wall parts 1210d and 1210e (right in 11 lies the vertical wall part 1210d , and left in 11 the vertical wall part 1210d ). The black ink cartridge 14 is formed so that the vertical wall heights of the vertical wall parts 1210b to 1210e approximately twice the vertical wall height of the vertical wall parts 210b to 210e of the first housing element 210 own for color ink, and the thickness of the ink cartridge 14 is enlarged accordingly.

As with the first housing element 210 are housing recesses 1211 and 1212 formed with an approximately semicircular shape on the vertical wall part 1210b are formed on the first housing element 1210 formed to the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 to the outside of the housing 200 towards free, and a housing recess 1213 , which is recessed in a rectangular shape, is between the housing recess 1211 and the housing recess 1212 educated. Two housing protrusions 1214a and 1214b are on both sides of the first housing element 1210 formed, and the housing projection 1214a has an inclined surface 1214a2 on. pin elements 1215a . 1215b and wall 1215c for determining the position of the ink reservoir element 100 are on the first housing element 1210 educated.

There is also a rib 1218 on approximately the entire inner surface of the first housing element 1210 (approximately the entire main area 1210a ) educated. This rib 1218 is in the Z direction on the side of the ink reservoir element 100 towards so far that the outer profile of the first housing element 1210 in comparison with the first housing element 210 is widened (height difference between the vertical wall parts 210b to 210e of the first housing element 210 and the vertical wall parts 1210b to 1210e of the first housing element 1210 ). Due to the presence of this rib 1218 that can be between the ink reservoir element 100 and the first housing 1210 trained gap (gap) are filled. It is possible because of the strength of the housing 1200 upright against pressure from the outside.

By the outer profile of the black ink cartridge 14 larger than that of the color ink cartridge 14 it is also possible between the black ink cartridge 14 and other ink cartridges 14 to distinguish. Black is a darker color than the other colors, so it is not desirable to accidentally put it in the refill unit 13 to load and use. But since the outer profile of the black ink cartridge 14 Made bigger, it can be different from other ink cartridges 14 can be distinguished, so that false installations can be reduced. In addition, the receiving chamber 50 inside the refill 13 according to the size of each ink cartridge 14 formed, leaving the black ink cartridge 14 never in a receiving chamber 50 installing a color ink cartridge 14 equivalent.

For the black ink cartridge 14 are the thicknesses of the first housing element 1210 and the second housing member 220 in the vertical direction (Z direction), so that the ink supply part 120 , the ambient air intake part 130 and the detection part 140 are arranged in positions shifted from the center position in the vertical direction (biased position).

Next is the large-sized black ink cartridge 14 with reference to the 12 and 13 described. 12 is an oblique view of the appearance of the large format black ink cartridge 14 , 13 is an exploded oblique view of the large format black ink cartridge 14 ,

As shown in the 12 and 13 is the exterior profile of the large format black ink cartridge 14 configured to be wider (longer in the Z direction) than colored and black ink cartridges 14 is. In particular, the vertical wall heights of the vertical wall parts 2220b to 2220e of the second housing element 2220 designed to be approximately twice the vertical wall height of the vertical wall parts 220b to 220e of the second housing element 220 own, and the second housing element 2220 from which the case 2200 is simply made thicker than the second housing element 220 for colored and black ink. In addition, in the first housing element 2210 from which the case 2200 exists, the rib 1218 of the first housing element 1210 just left off for black ink. In addition, the ink reservoir is 2100 simply thickened, so that the capacity compared with the colored and black ink reservoir element 100 is enlarged. Therefore, this is based on detailed descriptions of the large format black ink cartridge 14 waived. The reference numbers for the large-sized black ink cartridge 14 becomes the reference number 2000 to the reference numerals for the color ink cartridge 14 added. The thicknesses of the first housing element 2210 and the second housing member 2220 in the vertical direction (Z direction) are approximately equal, so that the ink supply part 2120 , the ambient air intake part 2130 and the detection part 2140 are positioned in the center position in the vertical direction.

In accordance with the ink cartridges having the three types of sizes described above, it is desirable that the refill unit 13 the multifunction device 1 is configured to work with multiple recording chambers 50 to pick up the colored ink cartridges 14 and a single receiving chamber 50 for selectively picking up the black ink cartridge 14 and the large-format black ink cartridge 14 is provided (the interior of this receiving chamber 50 has a size similar to the large size black ink cartridge 14 corresponds). The reason for this is that the frequency of printing text using only black ink is generally larger than that of colored printing. However, for users who rarely use text printing, one type of multifunction device may be 1 be provided at the refill unit 13 is configured to work with multiple recording chambers 50 for picking up color ink cartridges 14 and a single receiving chamber 50 to pick up the black ink cartridge 14 is provided. This will be described again below.

Next, the ink reservoir will become 100 with reference to 14 described. 14 is a schematic representation of the ink reservoir element 100 , in which 14 (a) a front view of the ink reservoir element 100 is while 14 (b) a rear view of the ink reservoir element 100 is. The in 14 illustrated state of the ink reservoir element 100 is the position in which the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 is installed (see 1 ). As shown in 14 That is, a position in which the longitudinal direction (X direction) and the width direction (Z direction) of the ink cartridge 14 (Ink supply element 100 ) are horizontal directions, and a state in which the ink supply part 120 , the ambient air intake part 130 and the detection part 140 are positioned on the side surface, the ink supply part 120 is positioned on the side of the lower part, and the surrounding air intake part 130 is positioned on the ceiling side. The ink reservoir element 2100 differs from the ink reservoir element 100 only in terms of its thickness (length in the X direction), so a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

As described above, the ink reservoir is 100 in the main with a frame part 110 an ink supply part 120 , an ambient air intake part 130 , a detection part 140 , an ink discharge part 150 and a slide 160 Mistake. In addition, the ink reservoir is 100 configured as a flat hexahedron. The pair of surfaces that make up the largest area of this hexahedron is the front surface side and the back surface side of the in 14 illustrated ink reservoir element 100 , and it is configured with about six surfaces, with the side surfaces (side walls) being positioned in four directions, which is this front surface side and the front surface side Connect rear surface side. The pair of surfaces, which is the largest area of the ink reservoir element 100 is after loading in the housing 200 parallel to the pair of major surfaces 210a and 220a of the housing 200 , In addition, the foil 160 on both the front surface side and the rear surface side of the frame part 110 welded so that the thickness of the formed with a planar shape ink reservoir element 100 (Length in the Z direction) can be reduced as compared with the case where both sides are blocked by plate materials.

First, the frame part 110 described in detail. The frame part 110 is made by injection molding using a plastic material and is translucent because it is translucent (or transparent). The reason is, as will be described below, that light coming from the light emitting part 57a on both sides of the detection part 140 positioned residual ink detection sensor 57 is output to the light receiver part 57b is transferred to the remaining ink amount in the ink reservoir element 100 capture.

As shown in 14 (a) are an outer circumference welded part 400a in which the film 160 welded to the environment of the outer edge portion, and a plurality of Innenumfangverschweissteile 411a to 417a located on the inside of this Außenumfangverschweissteils 400a are present on the front surface side of the frame part 110 educated. The Außenumfangverschweissteil 400a is a vertical wall that defines the interior of the frame part 100 delimits (space on the side of the first chamber 111 the ink reservoir 111 ). In addition, the blackened edge portions of the inner peripheral Verschweißensteile (ribs or first ribs) 411a to 417a as shown in 14 (a) welded surface parts (rib fastening parts or first rib fastening parts), and the front surface side edge (blackened part) of the outer peripheral welded part 400a is the welded surface part (fixing part) on the circumference of the first opening 112a , The foil 160 is welded to this welded surface part by means of ultrasonic welding.

As shown in 14 (b) are the Außenumfangverschweissteil 400b on which the film 160 welded to the environment of the outer edge portion, and a plurality of Innenumfangverschweissteile 411a to 417b located on the inside of this Außenumfangverschweissteils 400b are present on the back surface side of the frame part 110 educated. The Außenumfangverschweissteil 400b is a wall that defines the interior of the frame 100 demarcates. The Außenumfangverschweissteil 400b is a vertical wall that defines the interior of the frame part 100 (Room on the side of the second chamber 111b the ink reservoir 111 ) delimits. In addition, the blackened edge portions of the inner peripheral seal portions (ribs or second ribs) are as shown in FIG 14 (b) welded surface parts (rib fasteners or second rib fasteners) 411b to 417b , and the back surface side edge (blackened portion) of the outer peripheral welded part 400b is the welded surface part (fixing part) on the circumference of the opening. The foil 160 is welded to this welded part by means of ultrasonic welding.

The inside of Außenumfangverschweissteile 400a and 400b forms the ink reservoir 111 in which ink is stored. The area on the front surface side as shown in 14 (a) is the first chamber 111 the ink reservoir 111 , and the area on the back surface side as shown in FIG 14 (b) is the second chamber 111b the ink reservoir 111 , In addition, the Außenumfangverschweissteil 400a as shown in 14 (a) the first opening 112a of the frame part 110 , and the Außenumfangverschweissteil 400b as shown in 14 (b) is the second opening 112b of the frame part 110 ,

The frame 110 is mainly with a supply path training part 420 (please refer 14 (a) and 14 (b) ) connected to the ink supply part 120 communicates and inside the ink reservoir 111 supplies stored ink to the outside, an ambient air communication passage forming part 430 (please refer 14 (a) ) connected to the ambient air intake part 130 communicates and ambient air into the ink reservoir 111 initiates a plate-shaped connection forming part 440 (please refer 14 (a) and 14 (b) ), which is approximately in the middle of the frame part 110 (or the ink reservoir 111 ) and the environment of the ambient air inlet part 130 with the environment of the ink ejection part 150 connects, and an output channel forming part 450 (please refer 14 (b) ), which with the ink output part 150 communicates and ink into the ink reservoir 111 spends. Here, the connection training part divides 440 the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b the ink reservoir 111 in a state where they communicate with each other, and is a terminal plate between the imaginary plane R (not shown in the figure), in which the with the Außenumfangverschweissteil 400a welded film 160 extends, and the imaginary plane S (not shown in the figure), in which with the Außenumfangverschweissteil 400b welded film 160 extends, and extends in a plane parallel to these imaginary planes. This connection training part 440 will be described in detail in a later process. The ambient air duct training part 430 is designed so that it only on the front surface side of the frame part 110 (Side of the first chamber 111 the ink reservoir 111 ), and is approximately divided by the plate part 438 extending parallel to these planes between a portion of the outer peripheral Verschweißsteils 400a and the inner peripheral Verschweissteil 412a and the imaginary planes R and S extends. This ambient air communication channel training part 430 will be described in detail in a later process. In this embodiment, the ink reservoir is 111 inside the frame part 110 (Interior) exists as the area containing the supply path training part 420 , the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 , the connection training part 440 and the discharge channel forming part 450 contains, but the ambient air communication channel training part 430 is an ambient air passage for introducing ambient air into the ink reservoir 111 so that he will alternatively use one of the ink supply chamber 111 of the frame part 110 (Interior) of various area may be present. This means that the space described above from the ink reservoir 111 (Interior) except for the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 essentially as the space in which ink is stored.

In addition, at the outer edge of the frame part 110 thin, plate-shaped projecting parts at a position on the lower part (lower part of 14 (a) and lower part of 14 (b) ) and in two places at the upper part (upper part of 14 (a) and upper part of 14 (b) ), and through holes 460a to 460c , in the pin elements 215a to 215c (please refer 8th ) of the first housing element described above 210 are used, are formed on these projecting parts.

First, the Innenumfangverschweissteile 411a to 417a with reference to 14 (a) described. The inner peripheral sealing parts 411a to 417a consist of the Innenumfangverschweissteil 41La at the supply path training part 420 is present, the Innenumfangverschweissteil 412a at the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 is present, and the nenumfangverschweissteilen 413a to 417a connected to the connection training part 440 available. In addition, the most welded surface parts of the Innenumfangverschweissteile 411a to 417a in the same imaginary plane as the welded surface part of the outer peripheral Verschweißsteils 400a , and the slide 160 can be welded in the same plane (imaginary plane R).

The Innenumfangverschweissteil 411a is at the supply path training part 420 existing and consists of an obliquely downwardly extending vertical wall which is inclined in a direction which the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 cuts (see 8th ; left / right in 14 (a) ). The Innenumfangverschweissteil 412a forms a sidewall (vertical wall) of the ambient air communication passage 433 which will be described later in the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 , and consists of an obliquely downwardly extending vertical wall, which is inclined in a direction which the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 (X direction) intersects. The Innenumfangverschweissteil 413a is near the ambient air inlet part 130 existing and consists of an obliquely downwardly extending vertical wall which is inclined in a direction which the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 cuts, and a vertical wall extending from this vertical wall in one to the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 (Vertical direction in 14 (a) ) extends approximately orthogonal direction, which are arranged approximately in a T-shape. The Innenumfangverschweissteil 414a is approximately formed with a left-facing horseshoe shape and consists of a vertical wall, which is to the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 is parallel, a vertical wall extending from this vertical wall in one to the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 extends approximately orthogonal direction, and an obliquely downwardly extending vertical wall which is inclined from this vertical wall in a direction which the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 cuts. The Innenumfangverschweissteil 415a consists of a vertical wall that faces the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 is parallel, a vertical wall with an approximately vertical curvature, so that they are the direction of the lower part of the frame part 110 from this vertical wall, and a vertical wall extending from this vertical wall in one direction, which is the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 (Y direction) cuts, is inclined downwards. The Innenumfangverschweissteil 416a is near the ink ejection part 150 existing and consists of an obliquely downwardly extending vertical wall which is inclined in a direction which the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 cuts. The Innenumfangverschweissteil 417a is near the ink ejection part 150 present and consists of a vertical wall, extending in a direction to the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 extends approximately orthogonal direction, and an obliquely downwardly extending vertical wall which is inclined from this vertical wall in a direction which the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 cuts.

In other words, at least extends a portion of the vertical walls of the inner peripheral Verschweissteile 411a to 417a in a direction inclined downwards or to the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 is approximately orthogonal (in other words, the side of the lower part of the ink reservoir 111 in the installed position of the ink cartridge 14 ), and the end of this lower side (lower side in 14 (a) ) is a free end. Even if several Innenumfangverschweissteile 411a to 417a on the inside of Außenumfangverschweissteils 400a present to a sagging of the film 160 to prevent if the film 160 with the frame part 110 is to be welded, hinder this several Innenumfangverschweissteile 411a to 417a ultimately, the flow of ink opposite to the ink supply part 120 not worth mentioning. In addition, the Innenumfangverschweissteile 411a to 417a around the inside of the outer peripheral Verschweissteils 400a distributed (distributed over several units), allowing them to produce a sagging of the film 160 Effectively prevent and avoid inhibition of ink flow.

As shown in 14 (b) , are with regard to the Innenumfangverschweissteile 411b to 417b the Innenumfangverschweissteil 411b and the inner peripheral seal parts 413b to 417b with approximately the same shapes as the inner peripheral Verschweissteil 411a and the inner peripheral seal parts 413a to 417a as described above, as well as in positions corresponding to those of the inner peripheral welding part 411a and the Innenumfangverschweissteile 413a to 417a correspond, formed, and only the Innenumfangverschweissteil 412b is in a different shape and in a different position than the Innenumfangverschweissteil 412a educated. In addition, the most welded surface parts of the Innenumfangverschweissteile 411b to 417b in the same imaginary plane as that of the welded surface part of the outer peripheral welding part 400b , and the slide 160 can be welded in the same plane (imaginary plane S).

The Innenumfangverschweissteil 412b includes an inner peripheral Verschweissteil 412b1 which consists of a vertical wall extending from the outer circumference welded part 400b in a direction to the longitudinal direction B of the frame part 110 (Y direction) extends approximately orthogonal direction, and an inner peripheral Verschweissteil 412b2 which also consists of a vertical wall extending from the outer peripheral Verschweissteil 400b in a direction to the longitudinal direction B [of the frame part 110 ] extends approximately orthogonal direction. The Innenumfangverschweissteil 412b1 and the inner peripheral welding part 412b2 lie from the plate part 438 from the front of the ambient air communication channel training part 430 demarcates. The reason for this is that the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 only on the front surface side of the frame part 110 is formed, and the Innenumfangverschweissteil 412b1 and the inner peripheral welding part 412b2 are present to produce a sag of the film 160 in the portion, the rear surface side of this ambient air communication channel forming part 430 corresponds to prevent. In addition, the Innenumfangverschweissteile 411b to 417b as with the front surface side to free ends and are also on the back surface side of the frame part 110 distributed (distributed in several units), so that they effectively prevent an inhibition of the ink flow and at the same time the generation of sagging of the film 160 suppress.

Because the inner peripheral Verschweissteile 411a to 417a and 411b to 417b are provided in a fanned out orientation (distributed over several units), it is possible, even if the housing 200 is formed of a flexible plastic material, a deformation of the housing with Innenumfangverschweissteilen 411a to 417a and 411b to 417b even if the housing is on the side of the ink reservoir element 100 deformed. As a result, it is possible to damage the housing and the film 160 to prevent. In addition, the Außenumfangverschweissteil 400a and 400b and the inner peripheral seal parts 411a to 417a and 411b to 417b formed with vertical walls, which are present on the front surface side or the rear surface side, so that no extremely complex molds for the injection molding of the frame part 110 needed. It is therefore possible to reduce the manufacturing cost of the ink cartridge 14 to lower.

Next, the supply path training part becomes 420 with reference to 15 described. 15 is a schematic of the supply path forming part 420 , 15 (a) is a schematic representation outlining the supply path training part 420 shows (Schematic representation of the back surface side of the frame part 110 ) 15 (b) FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional view of the supply path forming part. FIG 420 through the line XVb-XVb in 15 (a) . 15 (c) is a schematic of the state in which the amount of ink is reduced, and 15 (d) Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of a state where the ink supply is depleted.

As shown in 15 (a) is the supply path training part 420 in the main with a first feeder connection hole 421 provided with the ink supply part 120 communicates, a feeder partition 422 when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in 15 (a) as approximately three ckiger frame is formed so that they have this first feed connection hole 421 encloses, a plate part 427 , which is the area on the inside of the feeder partition 422 covering and extending parallel to the imaginary planes R and S between these planes, a second feed connection hole 423 by eliminating a portion of the feeder partition 422 is formed, a Zuführungsvertiefungsteil 424 that is by forming a portion of the lower part of the ink reservoir 111 (lower part of 15 (a) ; Section of the wall part of part 400b1 , which is the lower part of the ink reservoir 111 in Außenumfangverschweissteil 400b forms) formed with a recessed shape (step shape), a plate member 428 extending from the outer circumference welding part 400b and the feeder partition 422 extending parallel to the imaginary planes R and S between these planes, an arm encircling part 425 at the free end of the plate part 428 is present and a sensor arm 470 ("Displacement element", see 19 ) mounted as a rotary member (described later) and an inner peripheral welded part 411a which is in the direction of the detection part 140 out (see 14 (b) ) of this arm enclosure part 425 out is present. In addition, the foil 160 with the feeder partition 422 welded, and their welded surface part lies in the same imaginary plane as the welded surface part of the Außenumfangverschweissteils 400b (imaginary level S). The one from the feeder partition 422 and the plate part 427 enclosed space is the ink storage chamber 426 that the ink that is the ink supply part 120 is supplied, temporarily stores, and that of the Zufeitvertiefungsteil 424 and the plate part 428 formed space is the well compartment 424a , As shown in 14 (b) is this depression subspace 424a lower than the part 400b1 , which is the lower part of the ink reservoir 111 (Interior) in the height direction (Y direction) of the cartridge 14 forms, and represents the space portion on the lowest side (lowest side) of the ink reservoir 111 lies. As shown in 15 (a) is the first feeder connection hole 421 above the lower part 400b1 (same height as the upper end of the well compartment 424a ), and the second feed connection hole 423 is below the lower part 400b1 educated. In other words, the second feed connection hole is located 423 on the lower side of the ink reservoir 111 (Side of the lower part), which is lower than the first feed connection hole 421 is. The arm enclosure part 425 when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in 15 (a) formed in an approximately leftward C-shape, and a portion of the ink supply portion 120 opposite side (left in 15 (a) ) is open. As shown in the 14 (a) and 14 (b) are the most welded part 411b and the welded part 411a previously described so as to be from the plate part 428 facing from opposite sides.

As shown in 15 (b) is the feeder partition 422 designed so that when welding the film 160 the interior of the frame part 110 (Ink supply chamber 111 ) and the first feed connection hole 421 separates each other. In other words, it communicates from the feeder partition 422 enclosed ink storage chamber 426 with the interior of the frame part 110 only via the second feed connection hole 423 , As a result, inside the frame part 110 stored ink from the second supply connection channel 423 forth in the ink storage chamber 426 is fed and then from the first feed connection hole 421 fro the ink supply part 120 fed (by the arrow D in 15 (c) illustrated path (ink flow path)).

Next, the ink flow path D, beyond the ink inside the frame part 110 the ink supply part 120 is fed, with reference to the 15 (c) and 15 (d) described. If, as shown in 15 (c) the liquid level I of the inside of the frame 110 stored ink higher than the Zuführungsvertiefungsteil 424 is, the ink is the ink supply part 120 supplied through the ink flow path indicated by arrow D in FIG 15 (c) is specified. Here is the depression subspace 424a filled with ink, so that of the feeder partition 422 enclosed interior of the ink storage chamber 426 also filled with ink. In other words, in the state as shown in FIG 15 (c) ink fills the interior of the ink reservoir chamber 426 so that the ink then passes over the second feed connection hole 423 the ink supply part 120 can be supplied when the liquid level I of the ink under the first feed connection hole 421 drops. In this embodiment, the ink supply part has 120 an approximately cylindrical shape, as in 8th is shown, and as described below, are a portion of the ink supply mechanism 500 and the check valve 670 inside the ink supply member 116 taken while the shank part 672 the check valve 670 (please refer 29 ) into the first feed connection hole 421 is used. Therefore, in view of the ink supply mechanism 500 and the check valve 670 occupied space is a limit to the formation of the first feed connection hole 421 on the bottom of the ink reservoir 111 (Frame part 110 ). In a configuration where the feeder disconnect wall 422 is not present, it becomes impossible to supply the ink when the liquid level I of the ink under the first feed connection hole 421 drops, and the full utilization of the ink inside the ink reservoir 111 worsens. By adding the feeder partition 422 and forming the second feed connection hole 433 on the side of the lower part at a lower level than that of the first feed connection hole 431 However, it is possible to supply ink until the liquid level I of the ink under the second feed connection hole 433 drops so that full use of the ink can be facilitated.

Further, when ink is out of the one shown in FIG 15 (c) and the liquid level I of the ink is supplied below the upper end of the feed recess portion 424 decreases and lower than the second feed connection hole 423 ambient air flows over the second feed connection hole 423 in the from the feeder partition 422 enclosed ink storage chamber 426 , and as a result, no further ink can be supplied (state as shown in FIG 15 (d) ).

As shown in 15 (d) there is a difference of the distance t1 between the part 400b1 , which is the lower part of the ink reservoir 111 in Außenumfangverschweissteil 400b forms and the lower end of the second feed connection hole 423 , If this is the second feed connection hole 423 over the part 400b1 located at the bottom of the ink reservoir 111 No further ink can be supplied after the liquid level I of the ink forms the second feed connection hole 423 has reached, so that the full use of the ink deteriorates. For this reason, the feeding recess part is 424 present and configured so that the second communicating opening 423 by the distance t1 lower than the part 400b1 which is the lower part of the ink reservoir 111 forms. In the result, as in 15 (d) is shown, in the state where the supply of ink is completed, only a small amount of ink remains in the vicinity of the lower part of the feeding recess part 424 (Part below the second feed connection hole 423 ), and the amount of ink that can not be supplied can be significantly reduced. Furthermore, the feed well part is 424 at the bottom of the ink reservoir 111 trained (see 14 ), leaving the ink inside the storage chamber 111 in the feed well part 424 flows and in the Zuführungsvertiefungsteil 424 collects when the amount of ink becomes small. By providing the feed recess part 424 Therefore, it is possible to fully utilize the ink inside the ink reservoir 111 to facilitate.

Impurities E remain in the remaining ink inside the feed recess part 424 , The reason for this is the difference of the distance t2 between the second feed connection hole 423 and the bottom side wall of the feed recess part 424 (Sidewall on the lower side in 15 (d) ). As described above, when the liquid level I of the ink drops below the second feed communication hole 423 drops, no further ink is supplied, so that the ink between the second feed connection hole 423 and the feeding recess part 424 inside the feeding recess part 424 remains without the ink supply part 120 to be fed. Dust or plastic contaminants involved in the manufacture of the ink cartridge 14 inside the frame part 110 sometimes remain inside the ink, however, these dust or plastic contaminants have a higher specific gravity than the ink so that they are near the lower part of the frame part 110 remain. As shown in 15 (d) Therefore, the impurities E remain inside the ink inside the feeding groove part 424 remains behind. If contaminants E the ink supply part 120 and the multifunction device 1 be fed (see 1 ), there is a possibility that a blockage will block the ink, thereby rendering precise printing impossible. However, as described above, the distance t2 between the second feed connection hole 423 and the bottom side wall of the feed recess part 424 is present, impurities E remain inside the feed recess part 424 so that the occurrence of blockage blocking the ink can be reduced.

Next, the ambient air communication channel formation part becomes 430 with reference to 16 described. 16 Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 , 16 (a) FIG. 12 is an oblique view outlining the ambient air communication passage forming part. FIG 430 shows, 16 (b) Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 from the perspective of the arrow XVIb in 16 (a) , and 16 (c) Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 from the perspective of the arrow XVIc in 16 (a) ,

As shown in 16 (a) is the ambient air communication channel training part 430 mainly with a first ambient air communication chamber 431 formed as an approximately rectangular parallelepiped with the ambient air inlet part 130 kom communicates, a second ambient air communication chamber 432 formed as an approximately rectangular parallelepiped with the ink reservoir 111 communicates, and an ambient air connection channel 433 that with the first ambient air communication chamber 431 and the second ambient air communication chamber 432 on the side of the first surface 437a communicates on which the film 160 is welded (left front in 16 ; the first surface 437a is a surface lying in the imaginary plane R). The chambers and the channel of the first ambient air communication chamber 431 and the second ambient air communication chamber 432 and the ambient air connection channel 433 be formed when the film 160 on the front of 16 (a) is welded.

The first ambient air communication hole 434 that with the ambient air inlet part 130 communicates is on the side of the second surface 437b formed the first surface 437a the first ambient air communication chamber 431 opposite (the second surface 437b is the surface of the plate part described above 438 ). In the second ambient air communication chamber 432 is the second ambient air communication hole 435 that with the first chamber 111 the ink reservoir 111 communicates on the side of the first surface 437a formed, and the third ambient air communication hole 436 that with the second chamber 111b the ink reservoir 111 communicates, is at the second surface 437b (Plate member 438 ) educated. The first ambient air communication hole 434 is on the side wall surface 431a the first ambient air communication chamber 431 on the side of the ambient air intake part 130 (left behind in 16 ), and the communicating opening 433b is on the side wall surface 432a the second ambient air communication chamber 432 on the side of the first ambient air communication chamber 431 (left behind in 16 ) educated. As described above, one of the side walls of the ambient air communication passage 433 (Side wall at the bottom in 16 (a) ) the Innenumfangverschweissteil 412a ,

In the ambient air connection duct 433 are the communicating openings 433a and 433b connected to the first ambient air communication chamber 431 or the second ambient air communication chamber 432 communicate, on the side of the first surface 437a trained, and these communicating openings 433a and 433b have passage cross-sections that are substantially smaller than the side wall surfaces of the first ambient air communication chamber 431 and the second ambient air communication chamber 432 (Side wall surfaces 431a and 432a at which communicating openings 433a and 433b are formed) are. Since there is a part with a channel, the ambient air with a very small cross-sectional area (ambient air connection channel 433 ) introduces (so-called labyrinth), the resistance of the flow path becomes large when ambient air passes through. As a result, it is possible to unnecessarily evaporate ink via the ambient air communication passage 433 to reduce.

How out 14 (a) is apparent, is the ambient air connection channel 433 from the first ambient air communication chamber 431 to the second ambient air communication chamber 432 downwards inclined. Since the ambient air connection channel 433 can be downwardly inclined in the state of the device in which the ink cartridge 14 in the refill unit 13 the multifunction device 1 is installed in the ambient air connection channel 433 Penetrated ink by gravity into the ink reservoir itself 111 be returned. Since also the cross-sectional area of the ambient air connection channel 433 Small in size, may be the ingress of ink inside the ink reservoir 111 stored in the ambient air connection channel 433 be reduced. This forms when ink in the ambient air connection channel 433 penetrates, a meniscus, and as a result, it is sometimes impossible to introduce ambient air in a normal manner. As has been described above, even ink entering the channel becomes due to the downward slope of the ambient air communication passage 433 into the ink reservoir 111 so that the formation of menisci can be substantially prevented. In addition, the ambient air connection channel 433 as a result of the fusion of the film 160 formed so that at least one of the surfaces is a side wall that can be deformed by bending. In other words, the ambient air connection channel 433 configured so that its cross-sectional area is slightly variable. Therefore, even in the case of formation of a meniscus by the bending and deformation of this film 160 the meniscus can easily be destroyed so that ambient air can be introduced in a normal manner. A portion of the surface of the second ambient air communication hole 435 is also from the slide 160 formed, so that the formation of a meniscus at the second ambient air communication hole 435 can be substantially prevented.

The third ambient air communication hole 436 is at the top of the second ambient air communication chamber 432 formed at the position where the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 is installed (see 1 ) (State as shown in 16 (a) ). Even in cases where a Tintenmen ge is stored so that at the second ambient air communication hole 435 forming a meniscus and the second ambient air communication hole 435 Therefore, ambient air may leak through the third ambient air communication hole 436 reliable in the ink reservoir 111 be introduced.

Next, the mechanism showing the leakage of ink from the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 prevents, with reference to the 16 (b) and 16 (c) described. As described above, the housing is 200 the ink cartridge 14 in a cube shape with a pair of opposed major surfaces, and when placed on a flat surface, the device can therefore assume one of two insertion positions in which one of the major surfaces 210a and 220a the lower surface (bottom surface) forms. Here, the ambient air intake part 130 on the side surface of the housing 200 however, there is leakage of ink from the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 as described below in each of the two positions.

The 16 (b) and 16 (c) show the positions of the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 each corresponding to one of the two insertion positions. 16 (b) shows the case where the ink cartridge 14 is arranged so that the ambient air connection channel 433 on the lower side (the side of the first chamber 111 of the frame part 110 is the bottom side, and the first surface 437a is the bottom side), and 16 (c) shows the case in which the ink cartridge 14 is arranged so that the ambient air connection channel 433 on the upper side (the side of the second chamber 111b of the frame part 110 is the bottom side, and the second surface 437b is the bottom side).

If, as shown in 16 (b) the ink cartridge 14 is arranged so that the ambient air connection channel 433 during transport of the ink cartridge 14 on the lower side, enters inside the ink reservoir 111 stored ink through the second ambient air communication chamber 432 and the ambient air communication chamber 433 and penetrates into the first ambient air communication chamber 431 one. As also described above, the ambient air communication passage is 433 about the communicative opening 433b connected, which has a significantly smaller area than the side surface of the second ambient air communication chamber 432 so that it may happen that the ink is inside the ink reservoir 111 not necessarily through the ambient air communication chamber 433 passes through and into the first ambient air communication chamber 431 penetrates. In the state as shown in FIG 16 (b) the liquid level I of the ink has the position of the opening of the first surrounding air communication hole 434 not achieved, so that leakage of ink from the ambient air inlet part 130 to the outside even then can be prevented when the ink cartridge 14 is arranged so that the ambient air connection channel 433 located on the lower side ,.

If the ink cartridge 14 as shown in 16 (c) is arranged so that the ambient air connection channel 433 while feeding the ink cartridge 14 is on the upper side, flows inside the ink reservoir 111 stored ink into the second ambient air communication chamber 432 but the liquid level I of the ink reaches the open position of the communicating opening 433b the ambient air connection channel 433 Not. As a result, the ink does not flow out of the communicating hole 433b in the ambient air connection channel 433 so that the ink does not enter the first ambient air communication chamber 431 flows. Even if the ink cartridge 14 is arranged so that the ambient air connection channel 433 On the upper side, leakage of ink from the ambient air intake part may occur 130 thus be prevented to the outside.

As described above, it is possible to leak ink from the ambient air intake part 130 prevent by the first ambient air communication chamber 431 , the second ambient air communication chamber 432 and the ambient air communication passage 433 be configured as described above and the open position of the first ambient air communication hole 434 and the open position of the communicating opening 433b be provided in positions that are to the ambient air connection channel 433 are symmetrical. In addition, it is possible to reduce the evaporation of ink and the flow of ink into the first ambient air communication chamber 431 prevent by the cross-sectional area of the ambient air connection part 433 kept small.

Referring again to 14 is now the connection training part 440 explained. The connection training part 440 connects the environment of the ambient air inlet part 130 and the ink ejection part 150 inside the ink reservoir 111 and is approximately at the center position in the ink reservoir 111 educated. Therefore, the terminal training part connects 440 two places leading to the frame part 110 are opposite, so that it also represents a reinforcing element, the strength of the frame part 110 maintains. The connection training part 440 is also a partition plate which divides the chamber so that the side of the first opening 112a and the side of the second opening 112b lie approximately in the same space area (partition plate for dividing the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b the ink reservoir 111 in the state in which they communicate with each other).

The connection training part 440 consists of the ambient air side connector 441 located on the side of the ambient air inlet part 130 (left in 14 (a) or right in 14 (b) ) using the inner peripheral seal parts 415a and 415b as limitations, and the output side connector 442 on the side of the ink dispenser 150 is present (right in 14 (a) or left in 14 (b) ). At the ambient air side connection part 441 are Innenumfangverschweissteile 413a . 413b . 414a and 414b each on the sides of the first and second openings 112a and 112b (Front and back viewed in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in FIG 14 (a) and front and back viewed in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in FIG 14 (b) ; Here, the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing is parallel to the Z direction) of this ambient air side connector 441 available here. In addition, the upper end communicates in the height direction (Y direction) of the ambient air side connector 441 with the Innenumfangverschweissteil 412a the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 , Furthermore, are at the output side connection part 442 respective inner peripheral welded parts 416a . 416b . 417a and 417b on the sides of the first and second openings 112a and 112b (Front and back viewed in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in FIG 14 (a) and front and back viewed in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in FIG 14 (b) ; Here, the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing is parallel to the Z direction) of this output side connecting part 442 available here.

The first connection connection hole 443 that between the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b communicates, is at the ambient air side connection part 441 formed, and second to fourth terminal connection holes 444 - 446 , which is the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b connect to the output side connector 442 educated. If there are the connection holes 443 - 446 not at the connection training section 440 are formed communicate the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b not in the center of the ink reservoir 111 , so that sometimes slight differences in the amounts of ink in the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b occur. If differences in the amounts of ink in the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b are present, there are differences in the air pressure inside the ink reservoir 111 , resulting in the disadvantageous effect that ink can not be fed (or precisely) easily. By making the connection connection holes 443 - 446 be formed so that they over the terminal training part 440 However, it is possible, the quantities of ink in the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b to equalize and feed ink easily (or precisely).

The from the ambient air side connector 441 , the output side connector 442 and the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 enclosed part is the first inner storage chamber opening 113 that between the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b communicates, and that of the ambient air side connector 441 , the output side connector 442 and the supply path training part 420 enclosed part is the second inner storage chamber opening 114 that between the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b communicated. In other words, the part of the ambient air into the ink reservoir 111 initiates, and the part inside the ink reservoir 111 supplied ink to the outside, communicate with each other when the terminal forming part 440 does not exist and if the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b are not divided. As a result, the introduction of ambient air and the supply of ink can be performed in a stable room.

The connecting rib 418a that several, on the side of the first opening 112a from the connection training section 440 Her existing Innenumfangverschweissteile 412a - 417a connects, and the connecting rib 418b on the side of the second opening 112b from the connection training section 440 Her existing Innenumfangverschweissteile 412b to 417b are at the connection training section 440 educated. These connecting ribs 418a and 418b are not shown in the figure, but are formed as thin-walled forms with vertical walls which are lower than the Innenumfangverschweissteile 412a - 417a and the inner peripheral seal parts 412b to 417b are. In addition, most of these are connecting ribs 418a and 418b at the edge of the connection forming part 440 educated. As a result, the connecting ribs connect 418a and 418b the Innenumfangverschweissteile 412a to 417a and 412b to 417b and are at the edge of the terminal forming part 440 designed so as to increase the strength of the terminal forming part 440 can maintain. Moreover are the connecting ribs 418a and 418b formed as thin-walled shapes and are formed with vertical walls which are lower than the Innenumfangverschweissteile 412a - 417a and 412b - 417b so that it becomes difficult to inhibit the flow of the ink.

Next, the output channel forming part becomes 450 with reference to 17 explained. 17 Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of the dispensing passage forming part 450 , 17 (a) FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration outlining the output channel forming part. FIG 450 shows, and 17 (b) Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the discharge passage forming part 450 through the line XVIIb-XVIIb in 17 (a) , In the output channel training section 450 the ink discharge position is at the highest part inside the ink reservoir 111 and the discharged ink flows to the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 down.

As shown in the figure, the dispensing passage forming part comprises 450 in the main a dispensing cylinder part 451 formed with an approximately cylindrical shape into which an ink discharge plug described later 520 (please refer 21 ), a first output communication port 452 that is between this output cylinder part 451 and the interior of the ink reservoir 111 communicates, an approximately U-shaped output partition 453 , starting from the outer surface of the output cylinder part 451 is present, wherein the existing edge forms the welded surface part on which the film 160 is welded and the first output communication port 452 relative to the ink reservoir 111 disconnects, and the second output communication port 454 that the opening part of the output partition 453 represents. The open part of the output cylinder part 451 is the opening 451a attached to the outer end face of the frame part 110 is formed, and that to this opening 451a opposite surface is the lower part 451b the output cylinder part 451 , The one of the output partition 453 and the foil 160 delimited area is the output partition wall flow path 453a ,

The output partition 453 forms the Innenumfangverschweissteil, with which the film 160 is welded, and the exit partition wall flow path 453a and the second output communication port 454 are formed in the state in the film 160 welded on. As with the welded end portion of the other Innenumfangverschweissteile 411b to 417b lies the welded end part of the output partition 453 in the same imaginary plane as the welded end part of the outer peripheral Verschweissteils 400b ,

A detailed description will be given below, but with ink in the ink supply chamber 111 is output, the ink is discharged in a state in which the second output communication opening 454 above and the first output communication port 452 located below (position where the Y direction is the horizontal direction in 17 (a) is). In addition, ink successively passes through the discharge cylinder portion 451 , the first output communication port 452 , the discharge partition wall flow path 453a and the second output communication port 454 , and the ink is discharged until the liquid level I of the ink becomes the state as shown in FIG 17 (a) reached. The output partition 453 is approximately straight from the first output communication port 452 to the second output communication port 454 educated. As a result, ink is output smoothly and without resistance.

When ink is dispensed, so that the inside of the ink reservoir 111 fills, the volume of ink expands, and the film expands 160 This is due to the limitation on the ink cartridge 14 is located, damaged or deformed. If the slide 160 becomes damaged, ink leaks, and when the film is 160 deformed, the volume changes inside the ink reservoir 111 , whereby a stable ink supply is made impossible. To damage and deformation of the film 160 Therefore, ink is not discharged to such an extent that the inside of the ink reservoir 111 gets full.

In this embodiment, the air pressure is inside the ink reservoir 111 after dispensing ink lower than the ambient air pressure. Therefore, a subsequent decompression operation is sometimes carried out, in which the pressure by sucking the ambient air inside the ink reservoir 111 from the output channel forming part 450 is reduced. This is done to reduce the amount of ambient air inside the ink reservoir 111 to reduce the degree of deaeration of the ink and to reduce the generation of air bubbles inside the ink. The bleeding of the ink is for the purpose of keeping the viscosity of the ink with respect to the generation of air bubbles inside the ink at an approximately constant level, because the pressure required to expel the ink not to the discharge port (not in the figure shown) is transmitted when the multi-function device 1 (please refer 1 ) Air bubbles are supplied so that the ink can not be properly discharged.

If a subsequent decompression operation is performed, it is the suction of the ambient air inside the ink reservoir 111 from the output channel forming part 450 the The resulting amount of ink is not correct regardless of whether or not an adequate amount of ink has been dispensed. If the amount of ink decreases, this causes the user of the ink cartridge 14 Losses, which is not desirable. So if the first output communication port 452 from the approximately U-shaped output partition 453 is enclosed and the second output communication port 454 over (top in 17 (a) ) the liquid level I of the ink (or the first output communication opening 452 ), there is a clearance amount between the liquid level I of the ink and the second output communication port 454 even if the inside of the ink reservoir 111 is decompressed, so that it is substantially possible, the leakage of the ink inside the ink reservoir 111 out through the output channel forming part 450 to prevent.

It will now be the structure near the detection part 140 with reference to 18 described. 18 is a schematic representation of the environment of the detection part 140 , 18 (a) is a schematic representation that outlines the environment of the capturing part 140 shows, 18 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the detection part 140 through the line XVIIIb-XVIIIb in 18 (a) , and 18 (c) is a cross-sectional view of the environment of the detection part 140 through the line XVIIIc-XVIIIc in 18 (a) ,

As shown in 18 (a) is the detection part 140 from the frame part 110 outwards (right in 18 (a) ). The detection part 140 is with a surround part 141 provided the end of the sensor arm 470 encloses (see 19 ) (Shield arm part arm 473c by receiving it between a pair of panels, and forms a channel through which the sensor arm 470 can be moved. The enclosure part 141 is formed as an approximately box-shaped channel by a bottom surface of the lower wall 141 inside the enclosure part 141 (below in 18 (a) ), a pair of side surfaces extending from the two side walls 141b be formed on both sides of the bottom wall 141 There is an inner side surface coming from the inner sidewall 141c is formed by the lower wall 141 is present and attached to the two side walls 141b connects, and a ceiling area, by the ceiling wall 141d is formed, which is attached to the two side walls 141b and the top of the inner sidewall 141c connects and to the bottom wall 141 is positioned opposite. The detection part 140 is also with an arm support part 142 provided so as to be from the bottom wall 141 formed bottom surface protrudes upward and the sensor arm 470 from below, and a vertical wall 143 that way from the inner wall of the frame part 110 (Aussenumfangverschweissteil 400b ) ago, that it is attached to the arm support part 142 connects and moves in the direction of the supply path training part 420 extends is near the detection part 140 available. How out 18 (b) it can be seen, is the arm support part 142 in the middle of the width direction of the channel inside the detecting part 140 formed and arranged so that the end of the sensor arm 470 (Abschirmungsarmteil arm 473c ) also in the middle of the channel inside the detection part 140 is positioned. Details are described below, but the sensor arm rotates 470 according to the amount of ink inside the ink reservoir 111 and is an element used to detect the position of the shielding arm part arm 473c with that at the multifunction device 1 existing existing waste ink detection sensor 57 (please refer 5 ) to detect that the ink cartridge 14 in the receiving chamber 50 the refill unit 13 the multifunction device 1 (please refer 4 ) is installed and that the amount of waste ink has become low. As described above, the detecting part is 140 translucent, and light from the light emitting part 57a can be attached to the light receiver part 57b be transmitted. Therefore, if the sensor arm 470 (Abschirmungsarmteil arm 473c ) in the beam path between the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b is positioned, it blocks that from the light receiver part 57b to receive light by having light-blocking properties. As a result, the sensor arm 470 by rotating in correspondence with the amount of ink inside the ink reservoir 111 (Pantry) change the amount of light from the light receiver part 57b and detect the presence or absence of residual ink. In 18 (b) are the positions of the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b of the waste ink detection sensor 57 shown when the ink cartridge 14 inside the receiving chamber 50 the multifunction device 1 is included, but are the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b as shown in the figure in the vicinity of the detection part 140 ,

As shown in 18 (b) is the thickness of the arm support part 142 formed so that the second space t4 between the inner walls of the enclosure part 141 (Pair of wall surfaces; inner surfaces of the two side walls 141b ) and the outer wall of the arm support part 142 narrower than the first gap t3 between the inner walls of the enclosure 141 (Pair of wall surfaces; inner surfaces of the two side walls 141b ) and the outside of the sensor arm 470 is. Here, the inside of the detection part 140 stored ink removed, and when the liquid level of the ink drops in accordance with this decrease of the ink and the liquid level I of the ink falls below the detection part 140 falls, the ink is inside the inside of the detection part 140 exhausted, but because the first gap t3 between the sensor arm 470 and the mount 141 is minute, ink remains inside the detecting part due to the surface tension of the ink 140 , and the sensor arm 470 sometimes does not rotate normally due to this surface tension of the ink. Incidentally, the reason why the first gap t3 is at a minute spacing is that, with a larger sizing of this pitch, the distance between the light transmitting part and the other is larger 57a and the light receiver part 57b increases, thereby increasing the detection sensitivity of the waste ink detection sensor 57 deteriorated. By the arm support part 142 is formed so that the first gap t3> second gap t4, it is therefore ensured that the between the arm support part 142 and the enclosure part 141 generated surface tension of the ink greater than that between the sensor arm 470 and the enclosure part 141 is generated surface tension of the ink. As a result, the inside of the enclosure part 141 remaining ink between the arm support part 142 and the enclosure part 141 pulled, so that it is essentially possible, the whereabouts of ink between the sensor arm 470 and the enclosure part 141 prevent and inhibit the behavior of the sensor arm 470 to suppress. The sensor arm 470 Therefore, it behaves normally, so the amount of residual ink can be accurately detected.

As shown in 18 (a) is the bottom wall 141 at the lower part of the enclosure part 141 (below in 18 (a) ) on the ink reservoir 111 inclined downwards, so that also from the lower wall 141 inside the enclosure 141 formed bottom surface is inclined downwards. Therefore, ink flows between the enclosure part 141 and the arm support part 142 is pulled down on the ink reservoir 111 (or the supply path training part 420 ). In addition, as shown in the cross-sectional view in FIG 18 (b) the connecting part (edge) of the lower wall 141 of the mount 141 and the arm support part 142 formed in a cross-sectional perspective at an angle (approximately a right angle), so that the capillary force of this connection part of the enclosure part 141 and the arm support part 142 increases, and this forms a shape that is the guiding of ink to the side of the ink reservoir 111 (or the supply path training part 420 ) promotes. In other words, the attachment part of the enclosure part 141 and the arm support part 142 form a fluid guide path (guide) for guiding the ink. As a result, it is possible that inside the enclosure part 141 to cause the remaining ink to flow in a downward direction effectively.

As shown in 18 (a) is a vertical wall 143 , which is attached to the arm support part 141 joins, on the sloping surface 143a trained, by the arm support part 141 on the supply path training part 420 is inclined downwards. The sloping surface 143a represents a portion of the inner wall of the frame part 110 (Aussenumfangverschweissteil 400b In addition, as shown in the cross-sectional view of 18 (c) the connection part of the vertical wall 143 and the inner wall of the frame part 110 formed in a cross-sectional perspective at an angle (approximately at a right angle), and is formed so that its thickness of that of the arm support part 141 is approximately equal. Therefore, the vertical wall 143 on the supply path training part 420 downwardly inclined, and the connecting part with the inner wall of the frame part 110 is formed approximately at a right angle, so that ink by this slope and the capillary force on the supply path forming part effectively 420 can be directed. In other words, the attachment part forms the vertical wall 143 and the inner wall of the frame part 110 a fluid guide path (guide) for guiding the ink. Because the thickness of the arm support part 142 and the vertical wall 143 are formed so that they are approximately equal, is the vertical wall 143 as a continuation of the arm support part 142 trained. As a result, there is no resistance to the passage of ink to the supply path forming part 420 , and the ink can therefore be passed efficiently.

When the sensor arm 470 is turned up, contacted the sensor arm 470 the ceiling area from the to the lower wall 141 of the detection part 140 opposite ceiling wall 141b is formed, whereby the rotation of the sensor arm 470 is restricted. It is therefore possible to jump out of the sensor arm 470 from the enclosure part 140 prevent and the behavior of the sensor arm 470 becomes precise, so that it is possible to accurately detect the amount of residual ink.

It will now be the sensor arm 470 with reference to 19 described. 19 is a schematic representation of the sensor arm 470 , 19 (a) is a schematic representation of the front of the sensor arm 470 , and 19 (b) is a schematic representation of the sensor arm 470 from the perspective of the arrow XIXb in 19 (a) , The sensor arm 470 is an element for detecting the residual ink amount inside the ink reservoir 111 , The sensor arm 470 is manufactured by injection molding using a plastic material (eg polypropylene) provides and has light-blocking properties, since it is made opaque.

The sensor arm 470 is a rotary member corresponding to the residual ink amount inside the ink reservoir 111 turns, and a portion is picked up by the waste ink detection sensor 57 (please refer 5 ) detected in the interior of the ink reservoir 111 stored residual ink quantity detected. The sensor arm 470 is in the main with a counterweight part 471 provided with a material having a lower specific gravity than that of the ink, an attachment part 472 , so on the frame part 110 is appropriate that he can swing back and forth, and an arm part 473 that is from this attachment part 472 out in a counterweight part 471 approximately orthogonal direction (in 19 (a) upward), and extending obliquely upward, and the possible detection range of the waste ink detection sensor 57 blocked. The attachment part 472 is a connector that is the counterweight part 471 and the arm part 473 combines.

An approximately cylindrical mounting stem 472a , the arm surround part 425 (please refer 14 ) of the frame part 110 is attached, is on the attachment part 472 educated. This attachment 472a is formed with a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the Armumfassungsteils 425 and greater than the length of the opening of the Armumfassungssteil 425 is. As a result, the sensor arm 470 be operated at its rotation against a low resistance, and a deviation of the sensor arm 470 from the arm enclosure part 425 can be prevented.

The arm part 473 consists of a vertical arm part 473a who is in a counterweight section 471 approximately vertical direction (in 19 (a) upwards), an oblique arm part 473b that is different from this vertical arm part 473a extends obliquely upward, and a Abschirmungsarmteil arm 473c used as a light-blocking member, which is the possible detection range of the residual ink-detecting sensor 57 blocked.

As shown in 19 (b) is the arm part 473 designed so that it is substantially thinner than the counterweight part 471 and the attachment part 472 is. The reason for this is that the dimensions of the detection part 140 increase when the arm part 473 formed with a thick profile, and as a result, the ink cartridge 14 becomes larger and the resistance increases with a rotation of the sensor arm 470 increases, thereby sometimes making it impossible to detect the exact amount of residual ink. As described above, as the thickness of the detecting part increases, it also expands 140 the detection range of the residual ink detection sensor 57 accordingly, and the detection sensitivity deteriorates, so that a costly, high-performance residual ink detection sensor having favorable detection characteristics is required. Therefore, the arm part 473 formed with a thin profile to increase the dimensions of the ink cartridge 14 to prevent and capture the exact amount of residual tint. ribs 473d are on the vertical arm part 473a and at the oblique arm part 473b trained, and the strength is maintained by these ribs.

Approximately hemispherical arm projection parts 473e1 and 473e2 are on the shield arm part arm 473c in two places on the top and bottom of the inside of the detection part 140 received part (upper end and lower end in 19 (a) ), and these arm protrusion parts 473e1 and 473e2 reduce the likelihood that the Abschirmungsarmteil arm 473c due to the surface tension of the ink on the inner wall of the detection part 140 sticks and becomes unable to turn. In other words, because the arm protrusion parts 473e1 and 473e2 are formed as hemispherical shapes, is the end of the arm projection parts 473e1 and 473e2 the only part of the inner wall of the detection part 140 contacted, whereby the effects of the surface tension of the ink are reduced.

The counterweight part 471 is made of a plastic material with a lower relative density than that of the ink, so that the counterweight part 471 when the liquid level I of the ink drops in accordance with decreases in the amount of residual ink, in accordance with this drop in the liquid level I of the ink to the lower part of the frame part 110 towards the bottom of the ink reservoir 111 back; down in the 14 (a) and 14 (b) ) emotional. When the counterweight part 471 using the attachment part 472 as a rotation axis on the lower part and the arm part 473 moved to the upper part, gives the Abschirmungsarmteil arm 473c from the possible detection range of the residual ink detection sensor 57 and thus the state in which ink is exhausted can be detected.

In a conventional counterweight part, the inside of the counterweight part was made hollow to cause the counterweight part to float on the liquid level I of the ink, but with such a configuration, the working (or molding) of the counterweight part becomes difficult. In contrast, the materials of the sensor arm exist 470 in the present embodiment of materials with relative densities that are lower than that ink, so that no processing operation is required and no production of kom plicated molds is needed, and the cost of manufacturing the sensor arm 470 can be lowered.

Next, the positional relationships and shapes of the ink supply part will be described 120 , the ambient air intake part 130 and the detecting part 140 with reference to 20 described. 20 Fig. 10 is a schematic illustration of a portion of the ink reservoir element 100 , 20 (a) is a schematic representation of the side surface of the ink reservoir element 100 . 20 (b) is a schematic view showing a partial front view of the ink reservoir element 100 shows, and 20 (c) is a cross-sectional view through the line XXc-XXc in 20 (a) ,

As shown in the 20 (a) and 20 (b) are the ink supply part 120 , the ambient air intake part 130 and the detection part 140 on one of the side surfaces of the frame part 110 (an end face; the side face in the forward direction of installation when the ink cartridge 14 installed) available. As described above, the position as shown in FIGS 20 (a) and 20 (b) the position in which the ink cartridge 14 inside the receiving chamber 50 the refill unit 13 is installed (see 1 ). Therefore, in the state where the ink cartridge 14 inside the refill unit 13 is installed, the ambient air intake part 130 , the capture part 140 and the ink supply part 120 successively from above (top in 20 (a) ) down (down in 20 (a) ) arranged. In other words, the elements are in the height direction (Y direction) of the ink cartridge 14 arranged.

As shown in 20 (a) is the width t5 of the detection part 140 such that it is smaller than the diameter t6 of the opening of the ink supply part 120 (Opening 600a described below (see 34 ) Feed cap 600 ). In addition, as shown in 20 (b) the detection part 140 designed so that it on the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 in the direction of the frame part 110 (in a position to the side of the ink reservoir 111 recessed direction) is recessed.

As described above, the arm part 473 of the sensor arm 470 inside the detection part 140 arranged. As will be described later, the beam path of the residual ink detection sensor becomes 57 (please refer 5 ) due to the rotation of the arm part 473 is opened from the light-blocking state, and as a result, the residual ink amount can be detected. At the waste ink detection sensor 57 are the light receiver part 57b and the light emitting part 57a on both sides of the detection part 140 (left and right in 20 (a) ), so that both side surfaces of the detection part 140 (left and right area in 20 (a) ; front and back surface in 20 (b) ) Detection surfaces 140a and 140b form. How out 20 (a) is apparent, these are detection areas 140a and 140b in the position where the ink cartridge 14 in the refill unit 13 is installed, parallel to the height direction (Y-direction) of the ink cartridge 14 In other words, the surfaces are vertical. When ink is on the front surfaces of these sensing surfaces 140a and 140b attached, it is sometimes impossible to grasp the exact amount of residual ink.

For example, the multifunction device 1 not always transported during transport so that the multifunction device 1 lying horizontally. Therefore, the ink supply part is located 120 sometimes above, but sometimes ink comes out of the ink supply part 120 and sticks to the detection part 140 , If the ink cartridge 144 also temporarily from the refill unit 13 is taken out, there is a probability that at the needle 49 the multifunction device 1 adhering ink at the vicinity of the opening of the ink supply member 120 but after being taken out, it adheres to the vicinity of the opening of the ink supply part 120 adhesive ink sometimes at the detection part 140 at what depends on the position in which the user with the ink cartridge 14 handled. If the ink cartridge 14 again in the refill unit 13 is installed while ink is at the detection part 140 attached, there is a risk that the detection part 140 adhesive ink on the light receiver part 57b and the light emitting part 57a of the waste ink detection sensor 57 is transmitted because of the ink detection part 140 (Sensing areas 140a and 140b ) and the light receiver part 57b and the light emitting part 57a of the waste ink detection sensor 57 in the installed state are close to each other, as described above,. In this way blocked at the waste ink detection sensor 57 Sticky ink, the light and thereby deteriorates the sensitivity of the waste ink detection sensor 57 , This deterioration of sensitivity is even more pronounced with black cartridges using pigmented ink.

In this embodiment, the detection part is located 140 as shown in 20 (b) in a position facing the ink supply part 120 relative to the side of the ink reservoir 111 is retracted, so that it is possible, the adhesion of ink to the detection part 140 even if ink from the ink supply part 120 austropft. In other words, if the user is the ink cartridge 14 in a position holding the ink supply part 120 higher than the detection part 140 is and the end surface of the ink supply part 120 (End face, at the opening 600a the feed cap 600 is formed) is vertical, is subject to the environment of the opening of the ink supply member 120 adhering ink most strongly influences the influence of gravity and tends to fall off but because of the detection part 140 on the ink supply part 120 relative to the side of the ink reservoir 111 is retracted, dripping ink does not move to the detection part 140 out so they are not on the detection part 140 adheres.

Because the detection areas 140a and 140b in the position where the ink cartridge 14 in the refill unit 13 is installed, vertical, the ink is most subject to the influence of gravity, while the ink cartridge 14 in the refill unit 13 is installed and ink at the detection areas 140a and 140b sticks, so that it drips quickly. It is therefore possible to transfer ink to the light receiving part 57b and the light emitting part 57a of the waste ink detection sensor 57 essentially to avoid. Furthermore, the dripping ink does not adhere to the end surface of the ink supply member 120 ,

In addition, as shown in 20 (c) Sidewalls, which the detection walls 140a and 140b from the side surface of the frame part 110 form at the detection part 140 educated. Therefore, the edge part 140c on which the side surface of the frame part 110 and the detection areas 140a and 140b cut, formed approximately at a right angle. When ink is around the edge 140c adheres, affects the capillary force of the edge 140c on the ink, as the edge 140c is formed approximately at a right angle, and there is a likelihood that the ink over the edge 140c to the side of the ink supply part 120 flows down. It is therefore possible to adhere ink to the detection surfaces 140a and 140b to reduce.

Next, the configuration of the parts of the ink reservoir member will be described 100 with reference to 21 described. 21 is an exploded front view of the ink reservoir element 100 ,

As shown in 21 is the ink reservoir element 100 mainly divided into four parts. The four parts are the frame part 110 , the ink feed mechanism 500 containing the ink feed part 120 represents, the ambient air intake mechanism 510 introducing the ambient air intake part 130 and the ink dispensing plug 520 which is in the output cylinder part 451 of the ink ejection part 150 (please refer 17 ) is pressed. The ink dispensing plug 520 consists of an elastic element such as Pulci rubber, and once in the output cylinder part 451 can not be easily removed, and even if the needle is removed or inserted, it is configured to block the route of the needle.

The ink delivery element 116 formed with an approximately cylindrical shape into which a portion of the ink supply mechanism 500 is inserted, and the ambient air intake element 117 formed with an approximately cylindrical shape into which a portion of the ambient air inlet mechanism 510 is used as a unit on the frame part 110 educated. In addition, there are projecting parts 116a and 116b (the projecting part 116b is not shown in the figure) used for attaching the Tintenzufürungsmechanismus 500 on the outer periphery of the ink supply member 116 projecting symmetrically on the ink supply member 116 arranged at the axial center of the ink supply member 115 (at the front and back in directions perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in 21 is arranged) are centered. Likewise, there are projecting parts 117a and 117b (the projecting part 117b is not shown in the figure), which on the outer circumference of the ambient air inlet element 117 projecting to the ambient air intake mechanism 510 to attach, symmetrical to the ambient air intake element 117 arranged at the axial center of the ambient air inlet element 117 (at the front and back in directions perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in 21 is arranged) are centered. The protruding parts 116a . 116b . 117a and 117b are formed so that the end surface on the side of the ink reservoir 111 protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the outer peripheral surface of the ink supply member 116 or to the outer peripheral surface of the ambient air intake element 117 (Z direction), and they are from this projecting edge part on the outer peripheral surface of the ink supply member 116 or the outer peripheral part of the ambient air intake element 117 inclined towards. In other words, when the ink supply mechanism 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 on the ink supply element 116 and the ambient air intake element 117 attached, can easily detach the ink supply mechanism 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 be prevented.

Next, the components of the ink supply mechanism become 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 with reference to the 22 to 33 described. 22 Fig. 10 is an exploded view of the ink supply mechanism 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 , 22 (a) Fig. 10 is an exploded view of the ink supply mechanism 500 , and 22 (b) is an exploded view of the ambient air inlet mecha mechanism 510 ,

As shown in 22 (a) is the ink supply mechanism 500 with a feeding cap 600 provided on the ink feed element 116 is installed, a feed seal 610 which is made of a resilient plastic material such as rubber into which the needle 49 (please refer 2 ) of the multifunction device 1 (please refer 1 ), a supply valve 620 which blocks the flow path of the ink when this feed seal 610 and touching the bottom wall, a first feed spring 630 inside this supply valve 620 is received and consists of a resilient plastic material, a feed slider 640 , which is the open surface of the supply valve 620 covering and can be operated in a uniaxial direction, which is the direction of movement of the needle 49 pressed supply valve 620 (direction of arrow 01 in 22 (a) hereinafter referred to as the "axial direction 01 of the ink supply mechanism 500 "with regard to this direction as outlined 14 goes forth, the ink supply mechanism 50 parallel to the X direction when the ink cartridge 14 is inserted), a second feed spring 650 that inside this feed gate 640 is taken and made of the same material and with the same shape as the first feed spring 630 is formed, a valve seat 660 , this second feed gate 650 contacted and the check valve 670 takes up, and a cover 680 holding the check valve 670 between the valve and this valve seat 660 covers. The feed valve 620 , the first feed spring 630 , the feed gate 640 and the second feed spring 650 form the actual acting supply valve mechanism 501 ,

As shown in 22 (b) includes the ambient air intake mechanism 510 one on the ambient air inlet element 117 installed ambient air cap 700 , an ambient air seal 710 made of a resilient plastic material such as rubber, an ambient air valve 720 that blocks the flow path of the ink when this ambient air seal 710 and contact the bottom wall, and the back 56 the multifunction device 1 (please refer 5 ) and opens the flow path (channel) of the ambient air when the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 (refill 13 ; please refer 1 ), a first ambient air spring 730 that are inside this ambient air valve 720 is accommodated and consists of a resilient plastic material, an ambient air slider 740 , which is the open surface of the ambient air valve 720 covering and operable in a uniaxial direction, which is the direction of movement of the depressed ambient air valve 720 acts (direction of arrow 02 in 22 (b) , hereinafter referred to as the "axial direction 02 of the ambient air supply mechanism 510 "as designated 14 emerges, the ambient air supply 510 parallel to the X direction when the ink cartridge 14 is inserted), and a second ambient air spring 750 that inside this ambient air damper 740 is taken and made of the same material and with the same shape as the first ambient air spring 730 is trained. The ambient air valve 720 , the first ambient air spring 730 , the ambient air damper 740 and the second ambient air spring 750 form the actual acting ambient air valve mechanism 511 ,

The following will be the feed cap 600 , the feed seal 610 , the supply valve 620 , the first and second feed springs 630 and 650 , the feed gate 640 , the valve seat 660 , the check valve 670 , the cover 680 , the ambient air cap 700 , the ambient air seal 710 , the ambient air valve 720 , the first and second ambient air springs 730 and 750 and the ambient air damper 740 with reference to the 23 to 33 described.

23 is a schematic representation of the feed cap 600 , 23 (a) is a schematic illustration showing a side view of the feed cap 600 shows, 23 (b) is a schematic illustration showing a side view of the feed cap 600 from the perspective of the arrow XXIIIb in 23 (a) shows, 23 (c) is a schematic representation, which is a top view of the feed cap 600 shows, 23 (d) is a schematic illustration that is a bottom view of the feed cap 600 shows, and 23 (e) is a cross-sectional view of the supply cap 600 through the line XXIIIe-XXIIIe in 23 (c) ,

As shown in 23 (a) is the feed cap 600 from a side view perspective (perspective of the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in FIG 23 (a) ) formed with a two - stage shape, and the part on the upper side in 23 (a) is the feeder attachment part 601 at the outer peripheral surface of the ink supply member 116 fixed and formed with an approximately cylindrical shape, while the part on the lower side in 23 (b) an ink storage part 602 That is, an ink storage space for preventing the dropping of ink from the ink cartridge 14 having.

engagement openings 603a and 603b (please refer 23 (b) for intervention opening 601b ) coming from the connector part of the ink storage part 602 up to the part near the top (environment of the above end in 23 (a) ) are formed and with the projecting parts 116a and 116b (please refer 21 ) of the ink supply member 116 intervene when the feed cap 600 at the ink feed element 116 is attached (see 21 ), are at the feeder fixture 601 educated.

As shown in 23 (b) is a pair of feed cap recesses 604a and 604b (please refer 23 (c) for feed cap recess 604b ), which in one to the straight connecting line between the engaging holes 603a and 603b are formed approximately orthogonal straight line (positions relative to the axial center 01 of the ink supply mechanism 500 shifted by approximately 90 °) and the direction of the ink storage part 602 in the top of the feeder attachment part 601 (upper end face in 23 (b) ) are recessed opposite to the feeder attachment part 601 educated.

As shown in the front view in 23 (c) and in the bottom view in 23 (d) is the insertion hole 605 into the needle 49 (please refer 2 ) is inserted (described below), approximately in the center position of the ink storage part 602 the feed cap 600 educated. As shown in 23 (c) is the area of the insertion hole 605 representing circle up to the one step further outward circle the first upper wall 606a , which is the upper end surface of the ink storage part 602 forms, and the area of which the first upper wall 606a representing outer circle up to the one step further outward circle the sloping wall 606b placing an oblique, on the bottom surface of the ink storage part 602 down sloping surface forms. The area of the outer circle that has this sloping wall 606b represents, up to the one step further outward circle is the bottom wall 606c that the lower end surface of the ink storage part 602 forms, and the area of the outer circle, the lower wall 606c represents, to the circle one step farther outward is the second upper wall 606d , which is the lower end surface of the feed attachment part 601 forms and the upper end surface of the ink storage part 602 forms. The part of the bottom wall 606c and the second upper wall 606d connects, is the outer peripheral wall 606e representing the outer peripheral surface of the ink storage part 602 forms. The sloping wall 606b forms the cylindrical part inside the ink storage part 602 , and the outer peripheral wall 606e that with this sloping wall 606b through the bottom wall 606c Connected forms the outer cylindrical part, which is the sloping wall 606b comprises (cylindrical inner part).

In 23 (d) is the sloping wall 606b as shown in the cross-sectional view in FIG 23 (e) inclined downwards so that the insertion hole of the needle 49 is formed with a tapered shape and its diameter on the insertion 605 decreases, the maximum diameter of that of the opening 600a which forms the final exit of the ink. As a result, the inner circumferential surface becomes the axial center 01 side of the inclined wall 606b the insertion path in which the needle 49 (please refer 2 ) is used. The space of the area t7 as shown in FIG 23 (c) and 23 (c) (in other words, the one through the sloping wall 606b , the bottom wall 606c and the outer peripheral wall 606e formed space) forms the ink storage part 607 in which ink can be stored (collected).

When the feed cap 600 at the ink feed element 116 is attached (see 21 ), stand the projecting parts 116a and 116b of the ink supply member 116 in the outer circumferential direction, so that the supply cap 600 is mounted with a diameter increasing in the outer circumferential direction. Because of the formation of the feed cap recesses 604a and 604b increases the diameter of the feed cap 600 in the direction of a movement apart of the engaging parts 603a and 603b , When the feed cap 600 is to be attached, it can therefore be attached without applying strong pressure, whereby it is possible to improve the installation efficiency and at the same time damage the feed cap 600 to reduce.

24 is a schematic representation of the feed seal 610 , 24 (a) is a schematic representation showing a side view of the feed seal 610 shows, 24 (b) is a schematic showing a top view of the feed seal 610 shows, 24 (c) is a schematic representation that is a bottom view of the feed seal 610 shows, and 24 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the feed seal 610 through the line XXIVd-XXIVd in 24 (b) ,

As shown in 24 (a) is the feed seal 610 in a side view perspective (perspective of the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in FIG 24 (a) ) formed in three stages. The part shown in the lowest level (below in 24 (a) ) is the seal outer peripheral part 611 , which is the part of the second upper wall 606d the ink storage part 602 the feed cap 600 (please refer 23 ) And the inner peripheral surface of Zuführungsbefesti supply part 601 contacted and the outer peripheral part of the feed seal 610 forms. This seal outer peripheral part 611 is the part that is in the ink supply element 116 attached state of the supply cap 600 between the two th upper wall 606d the feed cap 600 and the outer end surface of the ink supply member 116 is included. The at the top of the Dichtungsaussenumfangsteil 611 The illustrated part is the sealing inner peripheral part 612 which enters the ink feed element 116 (please refer 21 ) is pressed and arranged in the interior thereof and the inner peripheral part of the feed seal 610 forms, and the upper portion of the inner sealing peripheral part 612 is in 24 (a) shown. In addition, it is at the uppermost step of the inner seal part 612 shown part of the sealing contact part 613 that the feed valve 620 (please refer 25 ) contacted. The feed seal 610 is made of an elastic material such as a synthetic rubber.

As shown in 24 (b) lies the axial center of the feed seal 610 on the axial center 01 of the ink supply mechanism 500 , and the sealing contact part 613 , the inner circumferential sealing part 612 and the Dichtungsaussenumfangsteil are successively formed from this axial center 01 in the outer circumferential direction.

As shown in 24 (d) is the sealing contact part 613 from the top 612a the sealing inner peripheral part 612 (Area on the side containing the feed valve 620 contacted). The sealing contact part 613 is designed to be to the top 613a (upper end part in 24 (d) ), and this tip 613a contacts the bottom surface of the supply valve 620 and blocks the flow path of the ink. In addition, there is a seal tab 614 projecting from the inner circumferential surface toward the axial center 01, an opening 612c that are at the bottom surface 612b the sealing inner peripheral part 612 (below in 24 (d) ) formed insertion opening of the needle 49 (please refer 2 ), and a stepped insertion channel 612d that is between the opening 612c and the seal protrusion part 614 is formed on the inner seal part 612 educated. As shown in 24 (c) is the section of the insertion channel 612d formed with a stepped shape of, formed at an approximately equal distance from the axial center 01 in the outer circumferential direction. The inner peripheral surface 614a the sealing projection part 614 is parallel to the direction of the axial center 01 of the ink supply mechanism 500 , and the stepped surface 614b lies in a direction orthogonal to the direction of the axial center 01 direction.

As shown in 24 (d) is the ink flow path 615 that goes through the floor area 612b the sealing inner peripheral part 612 to the top 613a of the sealing contact part 613 (from top to bottom in 24 (d) ) extends to the feed seal 610 educated. This ink flow path 615 consists of an opening 612c at the bottom 612b is formed, a Stufenteilströmungspfad 615a passing through the stepped insertion channel 612d is delimited, referring to the opening 612c connects, a projection part flow path 615b passing through the inner peripheral surface 614a the sealing projection part 614 is delimited, with the insertion channel 612d is connected, and a contact part flow path 615c by the stepped surface 614b with the inner peripheral surface 614a the sealing projection part 614 is connected, and the inner peripheral surface 613b of the sealing contact part 613 that with this stepped surface 614b is delimited.

The lower half of the step partial flow path 615a is formed with a stepped shape toward the axial center 01, and the upper half of the step part flow path 615a is with a on the Vorsprungteilströmungspfad 615b formed to tapered shape. In addition, the step part flow path is 615a so formed with a stepped shape that the diameter of the opening 612c to the contact surface with the inner peripheral surface 614a the sealing projection part 614 gradually decreases. The lower part of the step partial flow path 615a is formed with a step shape so that the ink is held by the capillary force due to the angled part of this step part, even if the needle 49 (please refer 2 ) and a small amount of ink through the ink flow path 615 whereby it is possible to drip the ink out of the feed seal 610 to prevent. If the needle 49 Further, dropping of the ink can be prevented even when ink is discharged from the tip of the needle 49 in the ink flow path 615 drips. In this embodiment, the feed cap is 600 with an ink storage part 602 so that the portion of the lower half of the step part flow path formed with a stepped shape 615a alternatively may be formed with a tapered shape.

The projection part flow path 615b is the flow path of the ink flow path 615 with the smallest diameter and is formed with an approximately hollow cylindrical shape. The inner diameter of this projection part flow path 615b is designed so that it is slightly smaller than the diameter of the needle 49 is (see 2 ). The contact part flow path 615c is formed with an approximately hollow cylindrical shape having an inner diameter larger than that of the projection part flow path 615b is, and this inner diameter is sufficiently larger than the diameter of the needle 49 , Because the stepped surface 614b on the border between the Vor leaps part flow path 615b and the contact part flow path 615c is formed, the inner diameter changes toward the axial center 01 from the projection part flow path 615b to the contact part flow path 615c dramatically. As a result, the seal contact part decreases 613 as shown in 24 (d) a structure, by its inner peripheral surface 613b and graded surface 614b recessed with a recessed shape, and the top 613a of the sealing contact part 613 lies within the scope of this recess.

The needle 49 that from the opening 612c is used, becomes the upper portion of the step partial flow path 615a directed, which is formed with a tapered shape and in the projection part flow path 615b is used. Here, since the inner diameter of the Vorsprungteilströmungspfads 615b slightly smaller than the diameter of the needle 49 is, the needle sticks 49 elastic on the inner peripheral surface 614a the sealing projection part 614 of the protrusion part flow path 615b is formed, and is pressed so that it the projection part flow path 615b expands. In other words, the seal protrusion part serves 614 for sealing the circumference of the projection part flow path 615b indented needle 49 , In addition, if the area of the part of the feed seal 610 , the Elas table on the circumference of the needle 49 If it sticks, it gets bigger, the resistance increases when installing the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 (please refer 1 ), which makes a smooth installation impossible. However, in this embodiment, a configuration using the seal protrusion part has been used 614 provides and the needle 49 only on the inner peripheral surface 614a contacted so that it becomes possible the contact surface with the needle 49 to zoom out and the cartridge easily in the multifunction device 1 to install. In addition, the needle 49 so in the ink flow path 615 used that the flow path through which actually flows ink, the interior of the needle 49 is. In addition, since the contact part flow path 615c is formed with a recessed shape, the displacement of the feed seal 610 on the axial center 01 out when inserting the needle 49 be reduced.

25 is a schematic representation of the feed valve 620 , 25 (a) is a schematic representation showing a side view of the delivery valve 620 shows, 25 (b) is a schematic representation showing a side view of the delivery valve 620 from the perspective of the arrow XXVb in 25 (a) shows, 25 (c) is a schematic representation, which is a plan view of the supply valve 620 shows, 25 (d) is a schematic representation, which is a bottom view of the supply valve 620 shows, and 25 (e) is a cross-sectional view of the supply valve 620 through the line XXVe-XXVe in 25 (c) ,

As shown in 25 (a) is the supply valve 620 with a lower valve wall 621 provided the bottom surface of the supply valve 620 (lower side surface in 25 (a) ), and with a valve outer peripheral wall 622 along the direction of the axial center 01 of the ink supply mechanism 500 (please refer 22 ) from this lower valve wall 621 out is present.

A pair of valve guide grooves 623 , in which the slider insert part 643 of the feed gate 640 (please refer 27 ) is used loosely, is on the Ventilaussenumfangswand 622 educated. As shown in 25 (c) is the pair of valve guide grooves 623 with respect to the axial center 01 of the Tintenzuführungsme mechanism 500 formed symmetrically. In addition, as shown in 25 (c) a valve protrusion wall 624 in the lower valve wall 621 opposite direction from the top of the Ventilaussenumfangswand 622 protrudes toward the axial center 01 out, on the Ventilaussenumfangswand 622 formed, and valve guide grooves 623 are about the environment of the bottom of the valve outer peripheral wall 622 from the top of this valve protrusion wall 624 trained. As a result, a deviation of the slider insertion part 643 from the valve guide grooves 623 be prevented, since the distance of the Ventilführungsnuten 623 is secured as a long distance.

There is also a pair of valve holding parts 625 in one to the lower valve wall 621 projecting opposite direction and the operation of the feed slider 640 restrict, with the valve outer peripheral wall 622 connected. Each of the valve holding parts 625 is with a valve hook part 626 provided from its top (tip of the upper section in 25 (a) ) protrudes toward the axial center 01 and with the feed gate 640 intervenes.

Furthermore, four are valve tab parts 622a which protrude in semicircular shapes in the outer circumferential direction and from the top to the bottom of the Ventilaussenumfangswand 622 are formed on the Ventilaussenumfangswand 622 with a uniform distance along the valve outer peripheral wall 622 educated. These valve projection parts 622a are for easy implementation of the operations of the supply valve 620 present when the supply valve 620 into the ink supply element 116 (please refer 21 ) is used. If no valve protrusion parts 622a are present, the inner peripheral surface of the ink supply member touch 116 and the valve outer peripheral surface 622 sometimes, leaving the contact area with the ink feed element 116 gets big and also the resistance during the operation becomes big. Due to the presence of the valve projection parts formed with semicircular shapes 622a Therefore contact only the valve projection parts 622a the inner peripheral surface of the ink supply member 116 , and the operations of the supply valve 620 inside the ink supply member 116 be unhindered.

The valve holding parts 625 and the valve protrusion wall are formed to extend from the valve outer peripheral wall 622 extend upward in the direction orthogonal to the direction of the axial center 01 direction. As a result, an incorrect alignment of the feed gate 640 be prevented. In addition, the operation of the feed gate 640 on the axial center 01 out through the valve restriction part 625 restricted so that the first feed spring 630 can be reliably recorded and operated.

As shown in 25 (c) are four ink flow paths 627 in the vertical direction of the lower valve wall 621 (Direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in 25 (c) ) communicate with each other on the lower valve wall 621 formed in positions corresponding to the valve guides 623 and the valve restricting part 625 on the axial center 01 of the ink supply mechanism 500 towards (direction perpendicular to the plane in 25 (c) ) correspond. The lower valve wall 621 protrudes upwards from its bottom surface and is equipped with a valve bearing part 628 provided, which is a platform that the upper spring part 632 the first feed spring 630 (please refer 26 ). The valve bearing part 628 consists of two plate-shaped elements that are parallel to the lower valve wall 621 are arranged. As shown in 25 (e) is the height of the valve bearing part 628 to the axial center 01 out so as to be substantially lower than the Ventilaussenumfangswand 622 is. The valve bearing part 628 is present to ensure that the first feed spring 630 the lower valve wall 621 not contacted when the first feed spring 630 in the space inside the valve outer peripheral wall 622 is arranged. The reason for this is that the ink flow path is blocked and no more ink flows when the first supply spring 630 the lower valve wall 621 contacted. Therefore, the valve bearing part 628 to secure the ink flow path, and this role is acceptable as long as the first feed spring 630 the lower valve wall 621 why it is formed with the minimum required height, which increases the dimensions of the ink supply mechanism 500 prevented towards the axial center 01 out.

The valve inner peripheral wall 629 , which is formed as an approximately circular arc, which is the outer peripheral surface of the upper spring member 632 the first feed spring 630 is on the outside of the valve bearing part 628 and on the inside of the ink flow path 627 available. This valve inner circumferential wall 629 is present to the movement of the first feed spring 630 in a direction orthogonal to the axial center 01 direction, and the first feed spring 630 becomes. precisely tensioned towards the axial center 01 by the displacement of the first feed spring 630 is limited in a direction orthogonal to the axial center 01 direction.

26 is a schematic representation of the first feed spring 630 , 26 (a) is a schematic representation, which is a side view of the first feed spring 630 shows, 26 (b) is a schematic representation, which is a plan view of the first feed spring 630 shows, 26 (c) is a schematic view which is a bottom view of the first feed spring 630 shows, and 26 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the first feed spring 630 through the line XXVId-XXVId in 26 (b) ,

The first feed spring 630 is formed approximately in the shape of a fallen bowl (or approximately a hollow cone) and comprises in the main an annular lower spring member 631 , which is the bottom surface of the first feed spring 630 (End on the side with the larger diameter) forms, an annular upper spring part 632 formed with a diameter smaller than the diameter of this lower spring member 631 is and the upper part of the upper surface of the first feed spring 630 (End on the side with the smaller diameter) forms, and a flexible spring part 633 that is between this upper spring part 632 and the lower spring part 631 is connected and bends and deforms when a load on the axial center 01 of the ink supply mechanism 500 down (the direction of movement of the needle 49 (please refer 2 ) pressed-in supply valve 620 ; also the biased direction of the first feed spring 630 and the second feed spring 650 ) is applied. The upper spring part 632 contacts the valve bearing part 628 the supply valve 620 (please refer 25 ) and forms a pressure part, which is the supply valve 620 on the feed seal 610 (please refer 24 ) pushes. The diameter of the lower spring part 631 is designed to be larger than the diameter of the upper spring member 632 is, so that the lower spring part 631 the base forms when the flexible spring part 633 is elastically deformed.

As shown in 26 (d) is the ink flow path 634 coming from the top of the upper spring part 632 (right end face in 26 (d) ) ago with the bottom surface of the lower spring member 631 (left end face in 26 (d) ) communi graced, on the first feed spring 630 educated. This ink flow path 634 consists of the upper part flow path 634a passing through the inner circumferential surface of the upper spring member 632 is delimited, the plastic part flow path 634b passing through the inner circumferential surface of the flexible spring member 633 is delimited, and the lower part flow path 634c passing through the inner circumferential surface of the lower spring member 631 is delimited. As shown in 26 (d) the area of the opening of this ink flow path increases 634 gradually from the top of the upper spring part 632 to the bottom surface of the lower spring part 631 out. In addition, as shown in the 26 (b) and 26 (c) the upper part flow path 634a of the upper spring part 632 formed circular from the perspective of the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. If the flexible spring part 633 is curved and formed approximately in the shape of a fallen bowl, which is convex on the side facing away from the axial center 01 side, the flexible spring member 633 deformed more easily than in a housing in which the flexible spring member 633 has an approximately conical shape.

The cross-sectional shape of the upper partial flow path 634a of the upper spring part 632 can also be formed with an approximately four-sided shape. When the opening of the upper flow path 634a is formed with an approximately four-sided shape, the effects of air bubbles contained in the ink can be reduced. Here, the air bubbles contained in the ink are spherical, so that when the flow path is blocked by air bubbles, which is larger than the inner diameter of the upper Teilströmungspfads 634a be set, the ink flow path (channel) is disabled, and it is not possible, ink in the normal way to the multi-function device 1 (please refer 1 ) to promote. As a result, the quality of printing by the multifunction device decreases 1 from. But if the opening of the upper Teilströmungspfads 634a is formed with a four-sided shape, the four corners are not blocked even if accumulate air bubbles that are larger than the passage area of the upper Teilströmungspfads 634a so that it is possible to reduce decreases in print quality by preventing blocking of the ink flow path. In addition, the passage area of the upper Teilströmungspfads 634a is not limited to a four-sided shape, and may alternatively be formed as a polygon such as a hexahedron or a star shape. As in this embodiment, even if it is circular, it may be formed with a diameter where the effects of air bubbles would be minimal.

As shown in 26 (d) is the upper spring part 632 is formed with a relatively thick cylindrical shape extending toward the axial center 01, and is formed so that the cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the direction of the axial center 01 (biasing direction of the first feed spring 630 ) is uniform. Similarly, the lower spring part is also 631 formed with a relatively thick cylindrical shape extending toward the axial center 01, and is formed so that the cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the direction of the axial center 01 is uniform.

As shown in 26 (d) is the flexible spring part 633 formed approximately in the shape of a fallen bowl (or approximately conical shape) which is curved (or inclined) at a predetermined angle to the axial center 01 out. As a result, the strength with respect to a load on the axial center 01 is compared with the lower spring part 631 and the upper spring part 632 low. Furthermore, the flexible spring part 633 designed so that it has a thinner profile than the lower spring part 631 and the upper spring part 632 possesses, whereby the strength is also reduced. Therefore, there is a plastic deformation of the spring plastic 633 instead of when the first feed spring 630 elastically deformed.

The second feed spring 650 is the same shape as the first feed spring 630 formed, and the composition of the second feed spring 650 consists of the lower spring part 651 , the upper spring part 652 , the flexible spring part 653 and the ink flow path 654 (upper part flow path 654a , Plastic part flow path 654b and lower partial flow path 654c ). In addition, also the first ambient air spring 730 and the second feed spring 750 with the same shape as the first feed spring 630 formed and each consist of a lower spring part 731 respectively. 751 , an upper spring part 732 respectively. 752 , a flexible spring part 733 respectively. 753 an ink flow path 734 respectively. 754 (upper part flow path 734a respectively. 754a , Plastic part flow path 734b respectively. 754b and lower partial flow path 734c respectively. 754c ).

27 is a schematic representation of the feed gate 640 , 27 (a) is a schematic representation showing a side view of the feed gate 640 shows, 27 (b) is a schematic representation showing a side view of the feed gate 640 from the perspective of the arrow XXVIIb in 27 (a) shows, 27 (c) is a schematic view which is a plan view of the feed gate 640 shows, 27 (d) is a schematic representation which is a bottom view of the feed gate 640 shows, and 27 (e) is a cross-sectional view of the feed slider 640 through the line XXVIIe-XXVIIe in 27 (c) ,

The feed gate 640 consists of a plastic material with a higher degree of hardness than the first feed spring 630 (please refer 26 ), and the second feed spring 650 and mainly comprises a slider outer peripheral wall 641 , which is the outer circumference of the feed gate 640 forms a pair of slider tab walls 642a and 642b from this slider outer peripheral wall 641 toward the axial center 01 of the ink supply mechanism 500 protrude, a pair of slide-in parts 643 extending from the slider outer peripheral wall 641 to the upper tip of the slider protrusion wall 642a (upper end in 27 (a) ) and loose in the Ventilführungsnuten 623 the supply valve 620 (please refer 25 ), a slider platform part 644 , on both sides of which the first and the second feed spring 630 and 650 are arranged, and on the inside of Schieberaussenumfangswand 641 is formed and the lower spring parts 631 and 651 the first and the second spring 630 and 650 contacted, and a slide through opening 645 placed in the center position of the slider platform part 644 is formed and the upper and lower part of the slider platform part 644 combines. How out 27 (c) it can be seen, the slide projection walls 642a and 642b [ symmetrically] positioned so that they sandwich the axial center 01 and the pair of slide-in parts 643 is also positioned [symmetrically] so that they sandwich the axial center 01 between them.

The inner diameter of the slider outer peripheral wall 641 is designed to match the outer diameter of the lower spring parts 631 and 651 the first and second feed springs 630 and 650 is approximately equal, and the slide protrusion walls 642a and 642b are designed to be separated from this slider outer peripheral wall 641 protruding toward the axial center 01, so that the movement of the first and the second spring 630 and 650 in the direction orthogonal to the axial center O1 when the first and second feed springs 630 and 650 are arranged. As a result, the first and the second spring 630 and 650 elastically deformed towards the axial center 01.

The slide-in parts 643 are formed so that they on the axial center 01 of (via the Schieberaussenumfangswand 641 and the slider protrusion part 642 formed) feed gate 640 extend so that they easily on the axial center 01 out of the feed slide 640 be moved when loose in the Ventilführungsnuten 623 (please refer 25 ), and misalignment in the direction orthogonal to the axial center 01 direction can be prevented.

28 is a schematic representation of the valve seat 660 , 28 (a) is a schematic showing a side view of the valve seat 660 shows, 28 (b) is a schematic showing a top view of the valve seat 660 shows, 28 (c) is a schematic representation, which is a bottom view of the valve seat 660 shows, and 28 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the valve seat 660 through the line XXVIIId-XXVIIId in 28 (b) ,

As shown in 28 (a) includes the valve seat 660 a valve seat bottom 661 , which is the bottom surface of this valve seat 660 forms and the upper spring part 632 the second feed spring 650 contacted, and valve seat bearing parts 662 at the top of this valve seat base 661 (above in 28 (a) ) are arranged. Each valve seat bearing part 662 includes an oblique valve seat surface 662a that are approaching the center of the valve seat 660 is inclined downwards, and a non-return valve described below 670 that from this oblique valve seat surface 662a is recorded.

As shown in 28 (b) are six valve seat bearing parts 662 with a predetermined distance in the circumferential direction of the valve seat 660 educated. The first valve seat through holes 662b , which the front and back of the valve seat 660 enforce are formed on three of the six valve seat bearing parts. These first valve seat through holes 662b are on a different section than the oblique valve seat surface 662a of the valve seat bearing part 662 (Horizontal portion of the valve seat bearing part 662 ) educated. Because the first valve seat through holes 662b are formed on a portion of the portion for receiving the check valve 670 is different, therefore, blocking of the ink flow path can be prevented.

In addition, second valve seat through holes 663 that the valve seat base 661 prevail, between the valve seat bearing parts 662 of the valve seat 660 educated. Six of these second valve seat through holes 663 are axisymmetric with respect to the center line (center line Q as shown in FIG 28 ) formed by the axial center 01 of the ink supply mechanism 500 (please refer 22 ) in 28 (b) runs. These second valve seat through holes 663 form an ink flow path through which ink flows.

As shown in 28 (c) are recessed valve seat communication grooves 664 each having second valve seat through holes 663 connect to the bottom surface of the valve seat bottom 661 educated. These valve seat communication grooves 664 connect second valve seat vias 663 with each other on a nearly line are way on the bottom surface of the valve seat base 661 , As a result, three valve seat communication grooves 664 formed, which intersect in the axial center 01. In addition, there is a pair of valve protrusion parts 665 projecting from this bottom surface, on the bottom surface of the valve seat bottom 661 educated. The upper spring part 652 the second feed spring is in each of these valve projection parts 665 received, and they contact the outer peripheral surface of the upper spring member 652 the second spring 650 , whereby the movement of the second feed spring 650 is restricted in the orthogonal direction to the axial center 01.

As shown in 28 (d) is a gap between the oblique valve seat surface 662a the valve seat bearing parts 662 and the second valve seat through holes 663 formed on the axial center 01 out. As a result, the flow path of the ink is ensured even when the check valve 670 on the sloping valve seat surface 662a is supported. In addition, the second valve seat through holes 663 then also to the outside of the imaginary circumference of the valve projection part 665 (imaginary line R in 28 (c) ) positioned when the end surface of the upper spring member 632 the second feed spring 650 the bottom surfaces of the second valve seat through holes 663 contacted, so that the flow path of the ink through the valve seat communication grooves 664 is secured. The valve seat communication grooves 664 connect all the second valve seat through holes 663 so that the ink flow path can be reliably secured even when second valve seat through holes 663 are present, that of the valve projection part 665 are enclosed.

29 is a figure showing the check valve 670 shows. 29 (a) is a schematic illustration showing a side view of the check valve 670 shows, 29 (b) is a schematic showing a top view of the check valve 670 shows, 29 (c) is a schematic representation, which is a bottom view of the check valve 670 shows, and 29 (c) is a cross-sectional view of the check valve 670 through the line XXIXd-XXIXd in 29 (a) ,

The check valve 670 is in a side view perspective (perspective in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in FIG 29 (a) ) formed approximately umbrella-shaped and consists of a screen part 671 and a shaft part 672 , The screen part 671 blocks the flow path of the ink by removing the cover 680 (please refer 30 ), and as shown in FIG 29 (b) and Figure 29 (d) a connection part 671 , with the shank part 672 connected, and a wing part 671b , which is approximately uniform in the outer circumferential direction from this connection part 671a extends and is formed with a thin profile. As a result, the formed with a thin profile wing part 671b on the cover 680 if he has the cover 680 whereby it elastically deforms so that it is possible to control the ink flow path communication between the cover 680 and the check valve 670 reliably block.

As shown in 29 (a) is the bottom surface of the screen part 671 formed with a curved shape and is from the valve seat bearing parts 662 of the valve seat 660 (please refer 28 ), so that the flow path of the ink in the state where the screen part 671 from the valve seat bearing parts 662 of the valve seat 660 is supported while the flow path of the ink is in the state in which the screen portion 671 the check valve 670 the cover 680 contacted, blocked.

The shaft part 672 is a part formed in the second cover through hole 684 (please refer 30 ) of the cover 680 is inserted, which is described below. This shaft part 672 is in the on the cover 680 attached condition near the cover 680 arranged and has an approximately spherical ball part 672a on. This ball part 672a is formed with a diameter larger than that of the second cover passage opening 684 the cover 680 is, and prevents falling of the check valve 670 after its attachment to the cover 680 , As a result, it is possible the loss of the check valve 670 in the manufacture of the ink cartridge 14 to prevent and the operation suitability is improved.

30 is a schematic representation of the cover 680 , 30 (a) is a schematic illustration showing a side view of the cover 680 shows, 30 (b) is a schematic illustration showing a top view of the cover 680 shows, 30 (c) is a schematic illustration that is a bottom view of the cover 680 shows, and 30 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the cover 680 through the line XXXd-XXXd in 30 (b) ,

The cover 680 is formed with an approximately cylindrical shape, wherein the bottom surface side (side of the valve seat 660 (please refer 28 )) is open. The cover 680 includes a cover outer peripheral wall 681 , which forms the outer circumference, and an upper cover part 682 that is the top of the cover 680 (above in 30 (a) ), and is formed so that the bottom surface side is open. The valve seat 660 is in the opening of the bottom surface of the cover 680 (below in 30 (a) ), and the check valve 670 is between the valve seat 660 and the cover 680 added. In other words, the space becomes for receiving the check valve 670 from the cover 680 and the valve seat 660 educated.

As shown in the 30 (b) and 30 (c) are six first cover passages 683 covering the front and back of the cover 680 enforce, formed in the circumferential direction with respect to the axial center 01. These first cover passages 683 form a flow path through which ink flows, and when the screen portion 671 the check valve 670 (please refer 29 ) the upper cover part 682 are contacted, the first cover through holes 683 blocked, so that the ink flow path is blocked.

In addition, the second cover through hole is 684 into which the shank part 672 the check valve 670 is inserted in the middle of the upper cover part 682 formed (position, which through the axial center 01 of the ink supply mechanism 500 runs). The shaft part 672 the check valve 670 is in this second cover through hole 684 used, and this is the check valve 670 appropriate. Even in the state where the check valve 670 in the second cover through hole 684 is inserted, the flow path of the ink is formed at a portion of this inner peripheral surface. When the screen part 671 the check valve 670 however, the upper cover part 682 is contacted, the entire first cover through-hole is blocked, so that at the same time the ink flow path of the second cover through-hole formed in the middle 684 is blocked.

31 is a schematic of the ambient air cap 700 , 31 (a) is a schematic showing a side view of the ambient air cap 700 shows, 31 (b) is a schematic showing a side view of the ambient air cap 700 from the perspective of the arrow XXXIb in 31 (a) shows, 31 (c) is a schematic showing a top view of the ambient air cap 700 shows, 31 (d) is a schematic showing a bottom view of the ambient air cap 700 shows, and 31 (e) is a cross-sectional view of the ambient air cap 700 through the line XXXIe-XXXIe in 31 (c) ,

As shown in 31 (a) includes the ambient air cap 700 an approximately cylindrical ambient air safety part 701 that the side wall of this ambient air cap 700 forms and the ambient air inlet element 117 (please refer 21 ), and a lower ambient air cap wall 702 covering the bottom wall of the ambient air cap 700 forms. engagement openings 703a and 703b (please refer 31 (b) for intervention opening 703b ) coming from the lower part of the ambient air safety part 701 (below in 31 (a) ) to the vicinity of the upper part (environment of the end on top in 31 (a) ) are formed and with the projecting parts 117a and 117b the above-described ambient air intake element 117 intervene when the ambient air cap 700 on the ambient air intake element 117 is attached to the ambient air safety device 701 educated.

As shown in 31 (b) are ambient air cap recesses 704a and 704b (the ambient air cap recess 704b is not shown in the figure), which are formed at positions relative to the axial center 02 of the positions at which the engaging holes 703a and 703b are formed, are shifted by about 90 ° and from the upper end of the ambient air safety part 701 are recessed to the vicinity of the lower part, at the ambient air safety part 701 educated.

In addition, as shown in the plan view of 31 (c) and in the bottom view of 31 (d) an ambient air cap insertion opening 705 , in which a sealing collar part described below 714 (please refer 32 ) of the ambient air seal 710 and a valve opening part 721a (please refer 33 ) of the ambient air valve 720 are used, in an approximate center position on the lower ambient air cap wall 702 educated. The ambient air seal 710 (please refer 32 ) is received so that it covers the inner surface of the lower ambient air cap wall 702 and the inner peripheral surface of the ambient air-securing member 701 contacted.

When the ambient air cap 700 on the ambient air intake element 117 is attached, stand the projecting parts 117a and 117b the ambient air inlet element 117 as in the case of the supply cap 600 in the outer circumferential direction, so that the ambient air cap 700 is mounted with a diameter increasing in the outer circumferential direction. When the ambient air cap 700 is to be attached, it can therefore be mounted without the application of a strong pressure, whereby it is possible to improve the installation efficiency and at the same time damage the ambient air cap 700 to reduce.

32 is a schematic of the ambient air seal 710 , 32 (a) is a schematic showing a side view of the ambient air seal 710 shows, 32 (b) is a schematic showing a top view of the ambient air poetry 710 shows, 32 (c) is a schematic showing a bottom view of the ambient air seal 710 shows, and 32 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the ambient air seal 710 through the line XXXIId-XXXIId in 32 (b) ,

As shown in 32 (a) is the ambient air seal 710 in a side view perspective (perspective in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in FIG 32 (a) ) formed in four stages. As shown in the second stage from below (below in 32 (a) ) is the seal outer peripheral part 711 , which is the part that defines the inner peripheral surface of the ambient air securing member 701 (please refer 31 ) of the ambient air cap 700 and the lower ambient air cap wall 702 contacted and the outer peripheral part of the ambient air seal 710 forms. The at the top of this Dichtungsaussenumfangsteil 711 The illustrated part is the sealing inner peripheral part 712 located on the inside of the ambient air intake element 117 (please refer 21 ) and the inner peripheral portion of the ambient air seal 710 forms, and the upper part of the inner sealing peripheral part 712 is as shown in 32 (a) , In addition, it is at the uppermost step of the inner seal part 712 shown part of the contact part 713 that the ambient air valve 720 contacted. The part shown at the lowest level is the sealing collar part formed with a thin profile 714 , which is an element that defines the outer surface of the valve port part 721a (please refer 33 ) of the ambient air valve 720 covering and removing it from the ambient air cap 700 leaves to the outside.

As shown in 32 (b) is the axial center of the Dichtungsaussenumfangsteil 711 , the sealing inner peripheral part 712 , the seal contact part 713 and the sealing collar part 714 on the same axial center as in the direction of the axial center 02 of the ambient air intake mechanism 510 , In addition, there is the ambient air seal 710 made of an elastic material such as a synthetic rubber, so that the formed with a thin profile sealing collar part 714 the end face of the multifunction device 1 contacted and elastically deformed when the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 (please refer 1 ) is installed.

As shown in 32 (d) is the sealing contact part 713 from the top 712a the sealing inner peripheral part 712 (Area on the side of contact with the ambient air valve 720 ) in front. The sealing contact part 713 is designed to be to the top 713a (upper end part in 32 (d) ), and this tip 713a contacts the bottom surface of the ambient air valve 720 and blocks the ambient air inlet path. In addition, as shown in 32 (d) a sealing channel 715 that of the bottom surface of the seal inner peripheral part 712 to the top 713a of the sealing contact part 713 (from top to bottom in 32 (d) ) runs, at the ambient air seal 710 formed, and the valve opening part 721a the ambient air valve 720 is in this sealing channel 715 used.

33 is a schematic of the ambient air valve 720 , 33 (a) is a schematic showing a side view of the ambient air valve 720 shows, and 33 (b) is a schematic representation that is a bottom view of the ambient air valve 720 shows. The ambient air valve 720 has a configuration in which the valve opening part 721a coming from the bottom surface of the lower valve wall 721 protrudes and by contacting the side of the multifunction device 1 (please refer 1 ) opens the ambient air inlet path to the supply valve 620 is added. Therefore, what is described here is descriptions of the lower valve wall 721 , the valve outer peripheral wall 722 , the valve projection part 722a , the valve guide groove 723 , the valve projection wall 724 , the valve restriction part 725 , the valve hook part 726 , the ambient air inlet path 727 (an the ink flow path 627 corresponding part), the valve bearing part 728 and the valve inner peripheral wall 729 waived. In the present case, it is also dispensed representations of parts that in the side view ( 33 (a) ) and subview ( 33 (b) ) of the ambient air valve 720 are not recognizable.

The ambient air valve 720 is with a valve opening part 721a provided by the bottom surface of the lower valve wall 721 protrudes. The valve opening part 721a lies on the axial center 02 of the ambient air intake mechanism 510 and is formed approximately rod-shaped. An approximately semicircular recess part 721b from the lower part (lower end face in 22 ) to the lower valve wall 721 protruding in the outer circumferential direction is on the outer peripheral surface of the valve port part 721a educated. This valve opening part 721a goes into the sealing channel 715 (please refer 32 ) of the above-described ambient air seal 710 over, and a portion of it lies to the outside of the ambient air cap 700 (please refer 31 ) free. If the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 (please refer 1 ) is installed, the valve opening part contacts 721a the end face of the multifunction device 1 , and the contact with the sealing contact part 713 (Top 713a ) of the ambient air seal 710 is interrupted, whereby an ambient air inlet path is formed.

If the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 is installed and the valve opening part 721a is in operation, contacted also the sealing collar part 714 the ambient air seal 710 the end face of the multifunction device 1 and elastically deforms, and this blocks communication between the ambient air inlet path and the outside of the seal collar portion 714 , As a result, the side of the multifunction device 1 Introduced ambient air can be introduced easily. Even if the sealing collar part 714 to the axial center 02 out elastically deformed and the valve opening part 721a contacted, the ambient air inlet path through the recess part 721b the valve port part 721a be secured. It is therefore possible to prevent blocking of the ambient air inlet path and to ensure that ambient air into the ink reservoir 111 (please refer 14 ) is introduced.

Next, the state where the ink supply mechanism 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 into the ink supply element 116 and the ambient air intake element 117 be installed, with reference to 34 described. 34 FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of the state in which the ink supply mechanism. FIG 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 into the ink supply element 116 or the ambient air inlet element 117 are installed.

As shown in 34 becomes the ink supply mechanism 500 in the inner peripheral surface 800 of the ink supply member 116 inserted and attached, and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 gets into the inner peripheral surface 810 the ambient air inlet element 117 used and attached.

First, the ink supply member 116 attached ink supply mechanism 500 described. On the inner peripheral surface 800 the Tintenzufüh guiding element 116 is a projecting wall 801 leading to the interior of the inner peripheral wall 800 protrudes, on the side of the first feed connection hole 421 the supply path training part 420 trained, and this projecting wall 801 is formed as a stepped shape, the cover 680 can record. The cover 680 is used so that they have the stepped surface 801 this projecting wall 801 contacted with a stepped shape, and thereby the position becomes on the side of the first feed connection hole 421 the ink supply mechanism 500 established.

The shaft part 672 the check valve 670 is in the second cover through hole 684 the cover 680 used, and the valve seat 660 is arranged so that he has this check valve 670 inside the cover 680 receives. The second feed spring 650 is on the side of the bottom surface of this valve seat 660 (left in 34 ), and the feed gate 640 is arranged so that it has this second feed spring 650 receives. The first feed spring 630 is through the feed gate 640 on the opposite side of the second feed spring 650 recorded, and the first feed spring 630 is between the feed gate 640 and the supply valve 620 arranged. In addition, the feed seal 610 arranged so that it covers the bottom surface of the supply valve 620 contacted, and the feed cap 600 is so on the outside of the ink delivery member 116 attached them to the bottom surface of this feed seal 610 contacted. The feed cap 600 is by means of engagement with the projecting parts 116a and 116b of the ink supply member 116 attached, eliminating the position on the outside of the ink supply mechanism 500 is determined. Therefore, the position of the direction of the axial center 01 of the ink supply mechanism becomes 500 through the feed cap 600 and the stepped surface 801 the inner peripheral surface 800 of the ink supply member 116 established.

The inner diameter of the inner peripheral surface 800 of the ink supply member 116 is designed to be slightly larger than the outside diameter of the supply valve 620 is, and is configured so that the operation of the supply valve 620 in the direction of the axial center 01 easily in the interior of the ink feed element 116 can be carried out. As described above, four valve protrusion parts 622a on the outer peripheral surface of the supply valve 620 formed and configured so that the contact surface with the inner peripheral surface 800 is small. Even if the feed valve 620 works in a diagonal direction with respect to the axial center 01 and the inner peripheral surface 800 Therefore, it is possible to prevent a condition in which the supply valve 620 can not be operated. There is also a gap between the supply valve 620 and the inner peripheral surface 800 is formed so that an ink flow path passing through the interior of the ink supply mechanism 500 runs, and an ink flow path through the exterior of the supply valve 620 flows, be formed. As a result, the inner peripheral surface is 800 of the ink supply member 116 the space representing the ink flow path chamber.

As described above, the slider platform portion is located 644 in a state where he is between the lower spring part 631 the first feed spring 630 and the lower Fe the part 631 of the second spring element 650 is included. On the contact side of the spring deck part 644 with the lower spring part 631 the second feed spring 650 grab two valve hook parts 626 the supply valve 620 to him, whereby a movement is limited to the axial center 01 out. The between the feed valve 620 and the feed gate 640 trained space is shorter than the length of the first feed spring 630 towards the axial center 01, so that the first feed spring 630 in its mounting position on the ink supply member 116 already plastically deformed.

Next is the ambient air intake mechanism 510 described at the ambient air inlet element 117 is appropriate. On the inner peripheral surface 810 the ambient air inlet element 117 is the on the ambient air intake mechanism 510 out (to the left in 34 ) protruding projection part 811 on the end face of the ambient air inlet passage forming part 430 formed on the side of the first ambient air communication chamber. This projection part 811 is configured as a pair of plate-shaped members and contacts the end surface of the upper spring member 752 the second ambient air spring 750 , As a result, an ambient air inlet path between the projection part becomes 811 and the upper spring part 752 the second ambient air spring 750 educated. In addition, the position of the ambient air intake mechanism becomes 510 on the side of the first ambient air communication hole 434 as a result of the contact of the second ambient air spring 750 with the projection part 811 established.

As on the side of the ink supply mechanism 500 is the ambient air damper 740 so on the ambient air intake mechanism 510 arranged that he has the second ambient air spring 750 absorbs, and the first ambient air spring 730 is from the ambient air damper 740 on the opposite side of the second ambient air spring 750 recorded while the first ambient air spring 730 between the ambient air slider 740 and the ambient air valve 720 is arranged. In addition, the ambient air seal 710 arranged so that they are the bottom surface of the ambient air valve 720 contacted, and the ambient air cap 700 is so on the outside of the ambient air intake element 17 attached that they the bottom surface on the outer peripheral side of the sealing collar part 714 this ambient air seal 710 contacted. The ambient air cap 700 is by engaging with the projecting parts 117a and 117b the ambient air inlet element 117 fixed, reducing the position on the outside of the ambient air intake mechanism 510 is determined. Therefore, the position of the direction of the axial center 02 of the ambient air intake mechanism becomes 510 through the ambient air cap 700 and the projection part 811 the inner peripheral surface 810 the ambient air inlet element 117 established.

In addition, it is between the ambient air valve 720 and the ambient air damper 740 trained space shorter than the length of the first ambient air spring 730 in the direction of the axial center 02, so that, as with the ink supply mechanism 500 , the first ambient air spring 730 in the at the ambient air inlet element 117 attached position is already plastically deformed.

Next, the method of manufacturing the ink cartridge 14 with reference to the 35 to 39 described. 35 is a schematic representation for explaining the manufacturing process before the welding of the film 160 , 36 is a schematic view for explaining the process for welding the film 160 , 36 (a) is a schematic representation for explaining the welding surface of the frame part 110 to which the film 160 is welded, and 36 (b) is a schematic for explaining the welding process in which the film 160 on the frame part 110 is welded. 37 is a schematic representation for explaining the manufacturing process, after the welding of the film 160 is carried out. 37 (a) Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram for explaining the attaching operation in which the ink supply mechanism 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 on the frame part 110 be attached 37 (b) is a schematic for explaining the decompression process, and 37 (c) is a schematic diagram for explaining the ink discharge operation. 38 is a schematic to explain the process of installing the housing 200 , 38 (a) is a schematic representation to explain the process in which the housing 200 the frame part 110 between himself, and 38 (b) is a schematic representation for explaining the welding process in which the housing 200 is welded. 39 is a schematic illustration to explain the manufacturing process, before shipping the ink cartridge 14 is carried out. 39 (a) is a schematic representation to explain the process in which the protective cap 300 is attached, and 39 (b) is a schematic representation to explain the process in which the ink cartridge 14 in the packaging bag 930 is packaged.

As shown in 35 is used in the manufacture of the ink cartridge 14 first the sensor arm 470 on the frame part 110 appropriate. The frame part 110 and the sensor arm 470 are each injection molded in a previous Molded process (molding process). In other words, these are each in a first molding process (preparatory process), in which the frame part 110 is produced by injection molding, and in a second molding process (preparatory process), in which the sensor arm 470 produced by injection molding, molded.

In the sensor arm 470 is the at the attachment part 472 of the sensor arm 470 existing attachment 472a at the arm enclosure part 425 attached near the supply path forming part 420 of the frame part 110 is present (process for attaching the sensor arm 470 ; preparatory process). The arm enclosure part 425 is to the side of the ink supply member 116 (above in 35 ) opposite side open. In other words, the opening of the Armumfassungssteils 425 on the side of the second storage chamber opening 114 out. As a result, the sensor arm 470 be mounted in the area where the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 111b communicate with each other, leaving the sensor arm 470 can be effectively applied with little interference. In addition, the Abschirmungsarmteil arm 473c of the arm part 473 so attached that it is on the inside of the detection part 140 (inside the enclosure part 141 ) is recorded. When the sensor arm 470 at the arm enclosure part 425 is attached, is the vertical and horizontal movement range of the Abschirmungsarmteils arm 473c through every wall 141 to 141d of the enclosure part 141 of the detection part 140 limited. In other words, once the attachment of the sensor arm 470 is completed, the sensor arm can 470 not be easily removed, making it possible to prevent the process of making the ink cartridge 14 gets complicated, and to prevent the sensor arm 470 from the detection part 140 replaces when the ink cartridge is being transported. As a result, the ink-empty state can be reliably detected when the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 installed, whereby the reliability of the product can be improved.

In this embodiment, a support part which is the axis of rotation operation of the sensor arm 470 forms, as an attachment part 472 configured (the attachment shaft 472a of the sensor arm 470 is on the arm embracing part 425 of the frame part 110 supported), but a configuration may be used in which a mounting shaft on the side of the frame part 110 is present and an enclosure part on the side of the sensor arm 470 is present, and also a configuration in which the sensor arm 470 and the frame part 110 attached using a hinge connection would be acceptable. In other words, as long as the sensor arm 470 so attached that it is relative to the frame part 110 can rotate, its mounting structure can have any shape.

When attaching the sensor arm 470 is completed, the ink discharge plug 520 in the output cylinder part 451 of the ink ejection part 150 Pressed (process for pressing the ink discharge stopper 520 ; preparatory process). The ink dispensing plug 520 is pressed in so that the outer end surface 520a of the ink discharge stopper 520 approximately in the same plane as the outer surface of the frame part 110 lies, and is not pressed into a position in which he is the lower part 451b the output cylinder part 451 contacted. The reason for this, as described above, is that the first output communication port 452 the output channel forming part 450 on the side surface of the discharge cylinder part 451 is formed, and when the ink discharge plug 520 to the back of the output cylinder part 451 is pressed, the first output communication opening 452 blocked, making it impossible to dispense ink. In addition, the ink dispensing plug 520 before attaching the sensor arm 470 be attached.

As shown in 36 (a) will then go to complete attachment of the sensor arm 470 and the ink ejection plug 520 the foil 160 welded (process for attaching the film 160 ). The foil 160 becomes like that with the frame part 110 welded to the openings of both the first opening 112a as well as the second opening 112b covers. In other words, the foil becomes 160 with both sides of the frame part 110 welded in two attachment processes: a first fixing process in which the film 160 on the first opening 112a is welded (preparatory process), and a second fastening operation in which the film 160 on the second opening 112b is welded.

As shown in 36 (b) will the film 160 cut so that they are larger than the outer outline of the frame part 110 is, and is installed so that it is the frame part 110 covered. Here is the slide 160 then wrinkle-free on the first opening 112a and the second opening 112b arranged by the foil 160 with a suction device (not shown in the figure) from the side of the frame part 110 is sucked in here. The ultrasonic welding surface 900 An ultrasonic welding apparatus (not shown in the figure) is then set to cover the outer peripheral portions of the first and second openings 112a and 112b (Außenumfangver welded parts 400a and 400b ) from the top of the film 160 covers, and the foil 160 is attached to the frame part 110 welded. If the slide 160 welded with each Verschweissteil, are in 37 (a) black colored parts (Aussenumfangverschweissteile 400a and 400b and Innenumfangverschweissteile 411a to 417a and 411b to 417b ) welded.

On the frame part 110 are several Innenumfangverschweissteile 411a to 417a and 411b to 417b on the inner peripheral side of Außenumfangverschweissteile 400a and 400b distributed, so that the construction of the ultrasonic welding surface 900 becomes complicated when ultrasonic welding is carried out based on all Verschweissteile, and thus increase the manufacturing cost. In this embodiment, however, the ultrasonic welding surface 900 the ultrasonic welding apparatus is configured to cover all the welded parts (outer peripheral welded parts and inner peripheral welded parts), whereby it is possible to increase the manufacturing cost in the welding operation of the film 160 to reduce.

In addition, there is the film 160 from a two-ply film comprising a nylon film and a polyethylene film (hereinafter referred to as "nylon-polyethylene"), which later on the frame part 110 lying side is the polyethylene film. This nylon polyethylene completely blocks liquids, but is relatively gas permeable, leaving a small amount of gas circulation between the ink reservoir 111 passing through the slide 160 is approximately sealed, and the packaging bag described below 930 (please refer 39 (b) ) is possible. As a result, in the ink inside the ink reservoir 111 existing gas gradually through the film 160 kick and get into the between the inclusion element 930 and the housing 200 displaced space, whereby the generation of air bubbles inside the ink can be prevented. This can prevent occurrence of decreases in print quality due to air bubbles inside the ink. In addition, the film can 160 as long as it can maintain the strength and is relatively permeable to gas, consist of any substance. For example, a film in which a nylon film and a polypropylene film are formed as two layers or a film formed by mixing nylon and polyethylene or nylon and polypropylene could be used.

The frame part 110 is made of a polyethylene resin and consists of the same type of material as the film of the film 160 on the side of the frame part 110 , Because the film 160 and the frame part 110 are made of the same material, both the film 160 as well as the welded parts melted during ultrasonic welding and welded reliably. In this embodiment, the film has 160 a double-layered construction. Nylon films are superior in strength to polyethylene films, but have a high melting point so that they are unsuitable from the viewpoint of weldability. If the slide 160 thus formed with a double-layered structure of nylon and polyethylene, the strength is secured, and using the polyethylene layer as the with the frame part 110 To be welded layer, the welding can be carried out with a low heating temperature, whereby the weldability is ensured. Furthermore, the nylon layer does not melt in the welding process, so there are less changes in the thickness of the film in the vicinity of the welded parts, and also the strength of the film in the vicinity of the welded parts can be maintained.

As shown in 37 (a) are after complete welding of the film 160 the ink supply mechanism 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 on the frame part 110 appropriate. The ink supply mechanism 500 becomes at the ink feed element 116 (Operation for attaching the ink supply mechanism 500 ; preparatory process), and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 becomes at the ambient air intake element 117 (Operation for Attaching the Ambient Air Intake Mechanism [ 500 ]; preparatory process). When attaching the ink supply mechanism 500 (Attachment process) becomes a component in which the cover 680 , the check valve 670 and the valve seat 660 are formed as a unit, inside the ink supply member 116 used (in a position where there is the stepped surface 801 contacted). This will be the tip of the check valve 670 in the first Zuführungsverbin training hole 421 (please refer 34 ) and mounted so that they are in the from the feeder partition 422 protruding enclosed space. A component in which the feed seal 610 , the supply valve 620 , the first feed spring 630 , the feed gate 640 and the second feed spring 650 inside the feed cap 600 are formed as a unit, in the inner peripheral surface 800 of the ink supply member 116 inserted, and the feed cap 600 becomes on the outer peripheral surface of the ink supply member 116 attached. This will be the feed cap 600 on the ink feed element 116 pushed out, and the intervention openings 603a and 603b the feed cap 600 be with the projecting parts 116a and 116b of the ink supply member 116 engaged. In the feed seal 610 becomes the seal inner peripheral part 612 in the inner peripheral surface 800 of the ink supply member 116 pressed, and the Dichtungsaussenumfangsteil 611 is between the ink feed element 116 and the supply cap 600 added. When attaching the feed cap 600 at the ink feed element 116 abge is closed, is the attachment of the ink supply mechanism 500 completed, and the ink supply part 120 is finished.

As with the attachment of the ink supply mechanism 500 at the ink feed element 116 becomes the attachment of the ambient air intake mechanism 510 at the ambient air inlet element 117 (Attachment process) performed in a process in which a component in which the ambient air seal 710 , the ambient air valve 720 , the first ambient air spring 730 , the ambient air damper 740 and the second ambient air spring 750 in the ambient air cap 700 are formed as a unit, in the inner peripheral surface 810 the ambient air inlet element 117 is used, and the ambient air cap 700 becomes on the outer peripheral surface of the ambient air intake element 117 attached. This is the ambient air cap 700 on the ambient air intake element 117 pushed out, and the intervention openings 703a and 703b the ambient air cap 700 be with the projecting parts 117a and 117b the ambient air inlet element 117 engaged. In the ambient air seal 710 becomes the seal inner peripheral part 712 in the inner peripheral surface 810 the ambient air inlet element 117 pressed, and the Dichtungsaussenumfangsteil 711 is between the ambient air intake element 117 and the ambient air cap 700 added. If the attachment of the ambient air cap 700 at the ambient air inlet element 117 is completed, is the attachment of the ambient air intake mechanism 510 completed, and the ambient air intake part 130 is finished.

As shown in 37 (b) becomes after attachment of the ink supply mechanism 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 at the feed element 116 or at the ambient air inlet element 117 (After completion of the respective mounting operation) a decompression process is performed, wherein the interior of the frame part 110 (Ink supply chamber 111 ) is decompressed. In this embodiment, the decompression of the interior of the frame part 110 from the side of the ink supply part 120 carried out here. When decompressing the interior of the frame part 110 first becomes a suction tube 911 a pressure reducing device 910 in the feed seal 610 the ink supply mechanism 500 used, and the feed valve 620 is from the suction tube 911 is pressed, whereby the ink flow path is opened. A suction pump (P1) 912 is then activated, and the ambient air inside the frame part 110 is sucked off. The ambient air inside the frame part 110 is from the pressure reducing device 910 is exhausted, and when it reaches a predetermined pressure (a pressure that is at least lower than the ambient air pressure), the suction pump 912 stopped, and the suction tube 911 becomes out of the ink supply part 120 away. When removing the suction tube 911 from the ink supply part 120 contacts the supply valve 620 the sealing contact part 613 the feed seal 610 due to the elastic force of the first and second feed springs 630 and 650 , whereby the flow path of the ink is blocked, so that the decompressed state is maintained.

As shown in 37 (c) will, after the decompression inside the frame part 110 after the decompression process is complete, the ink ejection needle 920 in the ink dispensing plug 520 used, and ink is in the frame part 110 (Ink supply chamber 111 ) (ink ejecting operation). Inside the ink reservoir 111 A vacuum prevails, allowing the ink to quickly enter the ink reservoir 111 is output, and when a predetermined amount of ink has been dispensed, the dispensing needle becomes 920 and the ink ejection process is completed. The air pressure inside the ink reservoir 111 after dispensing ink, the air pressure is p1 (first pressure). In addition, "a predetermined amount of ink" refers to that amount at which the liquid level I of the ink falls below the second ambient air communication hole 435 and the third ambient air communication hole 436 the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 falls off, as in 37 (c) is shown. Thus, when ink is dispensed, ink may leak into the ambient air communication passage 433 be avoided. The reason why the ink is not in the ink reservoir 111 is discharged until there is no clearance inside the ink reservoir 111 is more, as described above, the damage or deformation of the film 160 to prevent. In addition, the area below the liquid level I of the ink is as shown in FIG 37 (c) the ink space in which ink is stored and the space above the liquid level I of the ink and the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 Containing space is the ambient air communication space (decompressed space), but the ink space and the ambient air communication space change their shape and size depending on the state in which the ink cartridge 14 located, and the remaining ink amount.

Ink becomes in the state where the inside of the ink reservoir 111 through the pressure reducing device 910 is decompressed, so that the air pressure inside the ink reservoir 111 even after the completion of ink discharge in the decompressed state (air pressure p1) is located. Therefore, there are cases where a subsequent decompression operation is not required after the ink discharge operation. If no subsequent decompression operation were performed, the manufacturing process could be simplified. However, the air pressure p1 is inside the ink reservoir 111 after discharging the ink, not necessarily within a predetermined range, so that in this embodiment, a subsequent decompression operation is performed to set the air pressure to a level within the predetermined range (to ensure that the air pressure is within the predetermined range) ,

The following decompression operation performed after the discharge of the ink, although not shown in the figure, will now be described. The subsequent decompression process is performed using the ink dispensing needle 920 performed in the ink dispensing plug 520 was used. In other words, a feeding device that supplies ink (not shown in the figure) and a pressure reducing device that releases the pressure by sucking the ambient air inside the frame part 110 reduced (not shown in the figure), with the ink discharge needle 920 and once the ink has been completely discharged, the flow path is switched and decompression by the pressure reducing device is started. The air pressure p3 (third pressure) inside the ink reservoir 111 after performing the subsequent decompression is lower than the air pressure p1 inside the ink reservoir 111 after dispensing the ink. Therefore, the amount of gas inside the ink reservoir decreases 111 as a result of the subsequent decompression operation, so that the generation of air bubbles inside the ink can be prevented and deterioration of print quality due to air bubbles can be prevented. In addition, the ink flowing in at the time of the ink discharge operation bounces on the inner surface inside the ink reservoir 111 , so that the formation of air bubbles is more likely, but the air bubbles formed at this time can be removed. In addition, the device may also be configured to include a decompression needle (not shown in the figure) for performing the subsequent decompression separately from the ink dispensing needle 920 is present, and decompression by inserting the decompression needle after removing the ink discharge needle 920 is carried out.

As shown in 17 is in the output channel training part 450 the opening of the second output communication port 454 above the liquid level I of the ink (at the top of FIG 17 (a) ), so that even if subsequent decompression is carried out with a pressure reducing device, the ink is never sucked outward via the discharge path. Therefore, the output amount of ink is never changed by the subsequent decompression, so that it is possible to reliably output a predetermined amount of ink.

Although not shown in the figure, the dispensing plug becomes 520 after completion of the output (or decompression) the ink is pressed in until it reaches the lower part 451b the output cylinder part 451 (End surface on the side of the ink reservoir 111 ) contacted. After the ink dispensing plug 520 in the lower part 451b the output cylinder part 451 is pressed, is therefore the first output communication port 452 through the outer peripheral surface of the ink discharge stopper 520 blocked so that no ink is ejected even if the dispensing needle is incorrectly reinserted. In other words, in the method of manufacturing the ink cartridge 14 possible to prevent a two-time execution of the dispensing operation and the occurrence of defective products.

As shown in 38 (a) With completion of the output (or decompression) of the ink is the preparation of the ink reservoir element 110 completed, then the housing 200 (Previous to assembling the housing 200 ). The housing 200 (First and second housing element 210 and 220 ) is injection molded and preformed (third molding).

As described above, when assembling the cover 200 the pin elements 215a to 215c of the first housing element 210 in three passages 460a to 460c (please refer 14 for passage openings 460b and 460c ) used on the outer peripheral part of the frame part 100 are formed, and the ink reservoir element 110 is thus in the first housing element 210 Installed. Here, the ink supply part becomes 120 (Feeder cap 600 ) and the ambient air intake part 130 (Ambient air cap 700 ) each with housing recesses 211 and 212 engaged, and the outer wall of the ink supply member 120 (Outer peripheral surface of the feed cap 600 ) and the outer wall of the ambient air intake element 130 (Outer peripheral surface of the ambient air cap 700 ) contact the contact grooves 211 and 212a , The second housing element 220 is then attached so that the Gehäusepasslochteile 225a to 225c (not shown in the figure) of the second housing element 220 with pin elements 215a to 215c of the first housing element 210 intervention. Here who the ink supply part 120 (Feeder cap 600 ) and the ambient air intake part 130 (Ambient air cap 700 ) each with housing recesses 221 and 222 of the second housing element 220 engaged, and the outer wall of the ink supply member 120 (Outer peripheral surface of the feed cap 600 ) and the outer wall of the ambient air intake element 130 (Outer circumference of the ambient air cap 700 ) contact the contact grooves 221a and 222a ,

As shown in 38 (b) are after completed assembly of the first and the second housing 210 and 220 (Assembly process) the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 welded together (process for welding the housing 200 ). In the process of welding the first and second housing members 210 and 220 become the first Gehäuseverschweissteil 216 of the first housing element 210 and the first housing welded part 226 of the second housing element 220 welded together, and the second Gehäuseverschweissteil 217 of the first housing element 210 and the second housing welded part 227 of the second housing element 220 are welded together (the sections indicated by the hatching in 38 (b) are welded). In this embodiment, the first and second Verschweissteile 226 and 227 all in the process of welding the housing 200 welded, but several digits can be partially welded instead. In other words, as long as the parts are welded so that the housing 200 does not detach during transport and does not easily detach as a result of its handling, any welding area or welding procedure can be used.

In this embodiment, the first and the second housing member 210 and 220 after dispensing the ink into the ink reservoir 100 assembled, and the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 are then welded, so that the vibration is absorbed by the ink as a result of the ultrasonic welding. Therefore, it is possible to reduce situations in which the most welded parts of the frame part 110 or the foil 160 be damaged or become film 160 as a result of the vibration, which wipes the casing 200 accompanied. In addition, the generation of vibrations due to the ultrasonic welding decreases when the welded parts of the first and second housing members 210 and 220 partially welded, causing damage to each part or peeling off the film 160 can be further reduced.

As shown in 38 (b) stand the housing protrusions 214a and 224a (Housing projection 214a is not shown in the figure) and the housing protrusions 214b and 224b (Housing projection 214b is not shown in the figure) from the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 outward. Even if the ink cartridge 14 in the intended installation in the ink jet recording apparatus 1 is dropped, thus meet the housing protrusions 214a . 214b . 224a and 224b on the floor, causing damage to the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 can be prevented. In addition, opening of the ambient air inlet path or the ink supply path can be prevented, so that leakage of ink can be prevented.

If, as shown in 39 (a) the welding process of the housing 200 is completed, the protective cap 300 on the housing 200 attached (process for attaching the protective cap 300 ). This protective cap 300 is removed when the ink cartridge 14 at the multifunction device 1 (please refer 1 ) and is therefore configured to be freely attached and detached. As described above, the projecting parts engage 330a1 and 330b1 the protective cap 300 with through holes, which from the Gehäusevorsprungausnehmungen 214a and 224a (please refer 8th ) of the first and second housing elements 210 and 220 be formed, and with through holes, which from the Gehäusevorsprungausnehmungen 214b and 224b the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 be formed, causing the protective cap 300 on the housing 200 is attached. Because the second protective cap parts 330a and 330b the protective cap 300 deform elastically in directions pointing away from each other, the protective cap 300 easily attached and removed.

If, as shown in 39 (b) the attachment of the protective cap 300 (Attachment process) is completed, the ink cartridge 14 for shipping the ink cartridge 14 inside the packaging bag 930 recorded (recording process). The inside of the packaging bag 930 is then using the pressure reducing device 940 decompressed (process for decompressing the packing space of the packing bag 930 ). The packaging bag 930 is a bag element with an open end (right front end in 39 (b) ), and during the packing process, all other open sections except the opening 931 Welded with ultrasound in a state in which the ink cartridge 14 is enclosed. The suction tube 941 the pressure reducing device 940 gets through this opening 931 used, and the Ambient air inside the packaging bag 930 is activated by actuation of the suction pump (P2) 942 sucked off and reduced. The air pressure of the packaging bag 930 is at a lower level than the ambient air pressure due to this decompression, but is reduced to become the air pressure p2 (second pressure) lower than the reduced air pressure p3 inside the ink reservoir 111 is (or air pressure p1, if no subsequent decompression process is performed). When the decompression with the pressure reducing device 940 is completed, the suction tube 941 taken out and the opening 931 is sealed, resulting in a state in which the ink cartridge 14 can be shipped. The relationship between the air pressures p1 to p3 is the relationship p2 <p3 <p1.

As the air pressure inside the packaging bag 930 as a result of the packing space decompression operation, lower than the air pressure inside the ink storage chamber 111 The film can be made 160 the ink cartridge 14 on the side of the packaging bag 930 (Side of the case 200 ) are plastically deformed. If the air pressure inside the packaging bag 930 higher than the air pressure inside the ink reservoir 111 is, the film stretches 160 sometimes and loses flexibility, or is damaged in the state in which the interior of the ink supply chamber 111 is decompressed when the ink cartridge 14 is left for a long time without being used. If the slide 160 loses flexibility, the shape of the ink reservoir changes 111 not, and the air pressure becomes non-uniform, so that the ink can not be precisely supplied. If the slide 160 damaged, the ink also flows in the ink reservoir 111 from the ink cartridge 14 out. However, in this embodiment, the inside of the packaging bag becomes 930 decompressed so that the air pressure is lower than the air pressure inside the ink reservoir 111 is, so the slide 160 on the side of the packaging bag 930 (reversible) is deformable. Therefore, even if no use is made for a long period of time, it is possible to reduce situations in which precise feeding of ink due to solidification of the film 160 becomes impossible and it is possible to damage the film 160 to prevent.

As the air pressure inside the packaging bag 930 lower than the air pressure inside the ink reservoir 111 can be done inside the ink reservoir 111 residual gas (a small amount of gas remains behind due to the subsequent decompression process carried out) gradually out of the ink reservoir 111 be brought out. The reason for this, as described above, is that the film 160 is formed of nylon-polyethylene, which is relatively gas-permeable, so that the air pressure of the space inside the ink reservoir 111 and the air pressure of the space inside the packaging bag 930 and outside the ink reservoir 111 try to go into a balancing state, and therefore the gas from the interior of the ink reservoir 111 moved to the outside. As a result, the vent is in the ink reservoir 111 stored ink, and the formation of air bubbles is difficult, so that the print quality can be maintained in a favorable manner.

In this embodiment, the ink cartridge becomes in a state 14 in the packaging bag 930 packaged and decompressed, in which the protective cap 300 on the housing 200 is attached so that it the ambient air inlet part 130 (or the ink supply part 120 ) never directly contacted while the bag 930 deformed due to decompression. The valve opening part 721a stands to the outside of the ambient air inlet part 130 before, and if the packaging bag 930 the valve opening part 721a is directly contacted, therefore, sometimes the valve opening part 721a operated so that the ambient air inlet path is opened. When the ambient air inlet path is opened, the ink inside the ink reservoir occurs 111 out. In addition, the ambient air intake part 130 and the ink supply part 120 sometimes according to the deformation of the packaging bag 930 damaged. In this embodiment, however, the protective cap 300 on the housing 200 attached, so that damage to the ambient air inlet part 130 and the ink supply part 120 and opening the ambient air inlet path can be prevented.

As described above, the ink cartridge 14 manufactured in a process in which the housing 200 over the ink supply element 100 is welded after ink in the ink reservoir 111 of the frame part 110 was issued. In some conventional ink cartridges, ink was discharged from the case after the ink supply member was covered with the case (after the final completion of assembling the ink cartridge). In such a conventional ink cartridge, it has been necessary to provide a frame and a housing according to the stored ink amount and the color of the ink. In this embodiment, the housing 200 however, after ink is deposited in the ink supply chamber 111 of the ink reservoir element 100 was issued, so that common parts for the ink reservoir element 100 can be used. In other words, even if the shape of the housing is different, the ink reservoir member 100 be used together. In the Er can reduce the manufacturing costs of the ink cartridge 14 be lowered.

Moreover, with the ink cartridge 14 the ink ejection part 150 (Ink dispensing plug 520 ) through the housing 200 completely obscured, so that it is not visible from the outside, whereby problems due to outflowing ink due to inadvertent removal of the ink discharge stopper 520 can be prevented by the user.

Next, the procedure for installing the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 with reference to 40 described. 40 is a schematic showing the process by which the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 will be installed.

If the ink cartridge 14 at the multifunction device 1 is attached, the packaging bag is first 930 vomited, and the ink cartridge 14 gets out of the packaging bag 930 taken. Then the protective cap 300 from the case 200 decreased. The direction in which each ink cartridge 14 (colored, black and large black) in the multifunction device 1 is installed, is the same.

First, the internal structure of the refill unit 13 the multifunction device 1 with reference to 40 (a) described. In the refill unit 13 is a needle as described above 49 at a lower portion on the side of the back surface 56 of the housing 40 present, and the needle 49 is along the installation direction F (arrow F in 40 (a) ) of the ink cartridge 14 in front. How out 40 (c) is apparent, this installation direction F is parallel to the longitudinal direction (direction of the arrow B, X direction) of the ink cartridge 14 that in the refill unit 13 will be installed. The waste ink detection sensor 57 is over the needle 49 available. The waste ink detection sensor 57 is approximately in the form of a left-facing horseshoe, and the open end of the horseshoe shape is the light-emitting part 57a for outputting light while the other end of the light receiver part 57b (not shown in the figure) for receiving light. This light-emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b are each inserted in through holes, which from the housing recesses 213 and 223 and the detection part 140 are formed, and are attached so that they from the back surface 56 protrude. The waste ink detection sensor 57 is configured to send a signal (k) to the multifunction device 1 existing control unit outputs when the light receiver part 57b from the light emitting part 57a outputted light, and (k) outputs a signal to the control device when from the light emitting part 57a output light blocked and not from the light receiving part 57b Will be received.

If, as shown in 40 (a) the ink cartridge 14 (in the state in which the protective cap 300 is removed) in the multifunction device 1 is to be installed, the ink cartridge 14 installed so that the ink feed part 120 below the ambient air inlet part 130 located. This condition is the regular installation position (or first position) of the ink cartridge 14 ,

Moreover, in the state where the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 is installed, the ink supply part 120 , the capture part 140 and the ambient air intake part 130 successively arranged from bottom to top, and the ink supply part 120 , the capture part 140 and the ambient air intake part 130 are formed on a single end surface. How out 40 (b) it can be seen, this single end surface is the one side surface of the housing 200 , which is positioned in the installation direction F front, when the ink cartridge 14 is in the regular installation position. Because thus the ink supply part 120 , the capture part 140 and the ambient air intake part 130 are present so that they are concentrated on a single end face (located close to each other), the residual ink detection sensor 57 , the needle 49 and the channel 54 on the side of the multifunction device 1 lie on a single surface (back surface 56 ) (arranged close to each other). When the ink supply part 120 on the bottom surface of the ink cartridge 14 would be present and the detection part 140 and the ambient air intake part 130 on the side surface of the ink cartridge 14 were present, it would be necessary to use the needle 49 on the bottom surface side of the housing 40 the refill unit 13 and the residual ink detection sensor 57 and the channel 54 on the side of the side surface (back surface 56 ) of the housing 40 provide, and the dimensions of the multifunction device 1 would be increased by their separate arrangement (with a relatively large distance to each other). In this embodiment, however, these parts are combined (arranged close to each other), so that the dimensions of the multifunction device 1 can be reduced.

The ink supply part 120 and the detection part 140 are successively on the single end surface from top to bottom, and using the sensor arm 470 to collect residual ink, the full use of the ink can be improved. This is due to the following reasons.

When detecting the amount of residual ink by irradiating a portion of the ink cartridge (which in this embodiment is the detection part 140 using a photodetector (which in this embodiment is the residual ink detection sensor 57 a method in which the presence of ink is directly detected (a method of detecting the amount of residual ink based on whether ink is present in the optical path of the photodetector or not) may be adopted in a configuration in which the ink supply port (the in this embodiment, the ink supply part 120 corresponds) and the irradiated part detected by the photodetector (detection part 140 ), both are present on a single end surface, the ink is not fully used as in this embodiment. In other words, in a configuration in which the irradiated part is positioned below the ink supply port, the position of the ink supply port becomes relatively high, so that ink stored below the ink supply port is left, and the consumption efficiency is thus lowered. In a configuration in which the irradiated part is positioned above the ink supply port, the position of the irradiated part becomes relatively high, so that a considerable amount of ink is left when the photodetector detects the absence of ink, and when the user on the Based on the detection results of the photodetector is notified of the absence of ink, the amount of ink left over becomes large. In this embodiment, however, the sensor arm 470 is used so that even if the irradiated part is in a relatively high position, the absence of ink can be detected in correspondence with a time point at which the actual remaining ink amount becomes small, and the ink supply port is in a low position, so there is little leftover ink. (This description is given out of context, but a method of detecting residual ink using the sensor arm 470 will be described in detail below.)

As long as the configuration of the ink cartridge is such that the ink supply port is on the bottom surface of the ink cartridge and the irradiated part is on the side surface of the ink cartridge, the ink is fully used even if a method of directly detecting the presence of ink is employed. In this case, however, there is a separate problem that the size of the multifunction device 1 increases. In other words, only with the invention described in this embodiment can both the reduction of the dimensions of the multifunction device 1 as well as the improvement of the complete use of ink can be realized.

According to the description in 40 (a) becomes the ink cartridge 14 installed in a process where the housing protrusions 214a and 224a (first housing seal parts 216 and 226 ) of the housing 200 be used so that they on the flap main body 60 glide, and the back surface of the ink cartridge 14 in the installation direction F is pushed until the bulk of the ink cartridge 14 in the refill unit 13 is used. As also described above, the oblique surfaces are 214a2 and 224a2 on the housing protrusions 214a and 224a designed so that the ink cartridge 14 as a result of these sloping surfaces 214a2 and 224a2 can be used easily. As shown in 40 (a) is a section of the back surface of the ink cartridge 14 the sliding part 200a , which is a part that is pushed so that it is the pressing element 61 contacted.

When the ink cartridge 14 as shown in 40 (b) located in the state in which they are inside the refill unit 13 is pushed in the installation direction F, is the projection 55 in one of the housing protrusion grooves 214b2 and 224b2 inserted groove inserted. In addition, the tip of the needle 49 inside the feed cap 600 of the ink supply part 120 positioned. The movement of the ink cartridge 14 in the horizontal direction (from the front of 40 (b) towards the back) is by the projection 55 and the projection grooves 214b2 and 224b2 limited, and a movement in the vertical direction is through the bottom plate part 42 and the ceiling panel part 44 the refill unit 13 limited, so that it is possible diagonal insertion of the ink cartridge 14 and damage to the waste ink detection sensor 57 and the needle 49 to prevent.

When the flap element 60 from the state of 40 (b) in the direction of in 40 (b) is shown pivoted contact the pressing element 61 the flap element 60 the sliding part 200a holding a portion of the back surface of the ink cartridge 14 forms and pushes the ink cartridge 14 in the installation direction F. When the flap element 60 is further pivoted, the flap locking element fits 62 the flap element 60 in the locking element Einpassteil 46 the refill unit 13 a, indicating the installation of the ink cartridge 14 is completed (the state of 40 (c) ). The center p as shown in FIG 40 (c) is the center position in the vertical direction (height direction) of the ink cartridge 14 , The position at which the pressing element 61 the sliding part 200a pushes, is a position that is the center point p of the ink cartridge 14 includes and extends below the midpoint p. In other words, the sliding part 200a in a positi on over the ink supply part 120 and below the ambient air intake part 130 provided in the vertical direction. Although a representation and description thereof is omitted, the tip of the pivot lever mechanism adds 44b in the locking parts 217a and 227a and holds the ink cartridge 14 firm, if the condition of 40 (c) is reached.

Once the installation of the ink cartridge 14 is completed, is the needle 49 in the ink supply part 120 used, and the supply of ink is possible; the valve opening part 721a the ambient air inlet part 130 contacts the back surface 56 of the housing 40 whereby the inlet of ambient air is enabled; and the waste ink detection sensor 57 is through by the housing recesses 213 and 223 and the detection part 140 trained passage opening used, whereby the detection of the amount of residual ink is possible. Details of this will be described below.

Furthermore, the residual ink sensor 57 through the housing recesses 213 and 223 and the detection part 140 formed through hole is inserted when the ink cartridge 14 in the refill unit 13 is installed, take the light-emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b of the waste ink detection sensor 57 a position inside the case 200 one. This makes it possible to damage the waste ink detection sensor 57 to prevent, and also a false detection due to at the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b To prevent adhering dirt, dust or the like.

Because the pressure element 61 according to the above description also from the coil spring 66 it may be the ink cartridge 14 hold firmly. If the ink cartridge 14 in the refill unit 13 was installed (or installed), the elastic force of the spring elements acts 630 . 650 . 730 and 750 the ink supply mechanism 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 in the direction away from the side on which the needle 49 is arranged (left in 40 ; in the direction opposite to the installation direction). As described above, the pressing member is 61 configured so that it has a greater elastic force than that of the spring elements 630 . 650 . 730 and 750 has generated elastic force, and is therefore capable of the ink cartridge 14 stable after installation. Furthermore, there is the sliding part 200a that of the pressing element 61 is pressed, substantially in the middle between the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 whereby the application of a substantially uniform elastic force to the ink supply member 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 is possible. The reason is that the ink cartridge 14 at three points in the installation direction of the ink cartridge 14 is held: a point on the front of the refill unit 13 (the pressing element 61 ) and two points on the back of the refill unit 13 (the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 ), where the imaginary line connecting these three points essentially describes an isosceles triangle. By the ink cartridge 14 is held at three points, the ink cartridge 14 therefore be stably held. Since the elastic force of the pressing elements 61 also for holding the ink cartridge 14 is used, the load on the surface of the ink cartridge decreases 14 in comparison with a housing with a mechanical structure in which the ink cartridge 14 is secured by an engagement with its surface. This will make it possible to damage the ink cartridge 14 by preventing the application of excessive loads.

Because the pressure element 61 further below the center position (center point p) in the height direction of the ink cartridge 14 presses, no large force is required to operate the flap element 60 needed, which allows the ink cartridge 14 Stably held in a predetermined position. The pivot point for the pivoting of the flap element 60 is located in a lower section of the housing 40 and the user performs the operation of opening and closing the flap member by operating the edge portion of the flap member 60 by. So if the sliding part 200a at the upper part of the back surface of the ink cartridge 14 is arranged, there is the actuation point at which the pressure element 61 the ink cartridge 14 pushes, at a distance from the pivot point of the flap element 60 so that the user has to apply a large force to close the flap element. When the sliding part 200a however, is disposed at the outermost lower part of the rear surface, for example, below the ink supply part 120 , the user will be able to close the flap element with a minimum force, but because a point at the bottom of the ink cartridge 14 is pressed, it may happen that the ink cartridge 14 turned and pressed in a tilted state, leaving the needle 49 not precise in the ink supply part 120 can be used. However, according to the present embodiment, since the sliding part 200a below the center position of the ink cartridge 14 in the height direction and above the ink supply part 120 is arranged corresponding position, no large force is required for actuating the flap element, whereby it is possible to install the ink cartridge stably in the predetermined position.

It will now be referring to 41 the operation of the ink supply mechanism 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 described when the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 is installed. 41 is a drawing that represents the state in which the ink cartridge 14 already in the multifunction device 1 is installed. There 41 a drawing for explaining the operation of the ink supply mechanism 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 is, were the case 200 , the lead 55 the multifunction device 1 and the like left out of the drawing.

If the ink cartridge 14 as shown in 41 in the multifunction device 1 (in the refill unit 13 ) are the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b (not shown) of the waste ink detection sensor 57 arranged at positions where they the detection part 140 between them. The detection part 140 is made of translucent or transparent plastic material, which makes it possible for that of the light emitting part 57a of the waste ink detection sensor 57 output light through the detection part 140 passes through and from the light receiver part 57b Will be received. Since the Abschirmungsarmteil arm 473c of the sensor arm 470 as described above in the enclosure part 141 of the detection part 140 is arranged, the remaining amount of ink by the operation of this sensor arm 470 be recorded. The operation of this sensor arm will be described below.

Regarding the ink supply mechanism 500 will if the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 is installed, the needle 49 through the from the sloping wall 606d the feed cap 600 surrounded space, the insertion hole 605 the feed cap 600 , and the ink flow path 615 the feed seal 600 used in that order, and the tip of the needle 49 contacts the lower valve wall 621 the supply valve 620 , being the supply valve 620 depresses. As a result, the supply valve moves 620 from the sealing contact part 613 the feed seal 610 away, thereby establishing an ink flow path. The needle 49 stands over the ink discharge opening 52 and the ink tube 53 with a dispensing opening (not shown) of the multifunction device 1 in connection. Furthermore, in the top of the needle 49 a recess 49a formed to secure an ink flow path, so that an ink flow path through the recess 49a Also made sure in case that the tip of the needle 49 the lower valve wall 621 the supply valve 620 contacted.

It will now be the operation of the ink supply mechanism 500 when depressing the supply valve 620 through the needle 49 described. The first feed spring 630 , as described above, inside the supply valve 620 (and the feed gate 640 ), has a slightly tensioned flexible spring member 633 on. In the flexible spring part 653 the second feed spring 650 on the opposite side of the feed gate 640 from the first feed spring 630 is arranged, however, there is no voltage. This serves to control the order of magnitude of the tensioning of the first and second feed springs 630 and 650 set. In other words, the first feed spring 630 with the tensioned flexible spring part 633 is more easily tensioned than the second feed spring 650 , and therefore, when inserting the needle 49 the first feed spring 630 first tensioned, and then the second feed spring 650 curious; excited.

Here, the height of the ink supply mechanism 500 in the direction of the axis 01 as a result of the production of the various items a dimensional deviation, which increases the probability of the occurrence of such a deviation with an increasing number of items. But since the feed gate 640 with the valve hook part 626 of the valve element 610 is brought into contact, at least the deviation in the dimensions of the first feed spring 630 irrelevant. Thereby, a dimensional deviation of the ink supply mechanism becomes 500 reduces, and the mating of the ink supply mechanism 500 becomes more stable.

Furthermore, the inner diameter of the valve outer peripheral wall 622 the supply valve 620 and the outside diameter of the slider outer peripheral wall 641 of the feed gate 640 designed so that they are essentially the same. This makes it possible to prevent the occurrence of misalignment in the direction of displacement when the feed gate 640 in the direction of the axis 01 of the ink supply mechanism 500 becomes active. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the slider outer peripheral wall 641 and the outer diameter of the lower spring parts 631 and 651 the first and second feed springs 630 and 650 designed so that they are essentially the same. This makes it possible to prevent misalignment in the axis 01 (the up-down direction in FIG 41 ) to prevent orthogonal direction when the first and the second spring element 630 and 650 on the slider platform part 644 of the feed gate 640 are arranged. Furthermore, while the outer shape of the Ventilaussenumfangswand 622 the supply valve 620 slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the ink supply member 116 is formed, because the valve projection part 622a from the valve senumfangswand 622 the supply valve 620 is formed outwardly, it becomes possible to prevent misalignment in the direction of displacement when the supply valve 620 acting in the direction of the axis 01. Therefore, the mating in the direction of the axis 01 becomes more stable.

Furthermore, if the lower valve wall 621 the supply valve 620 from the needle 49 is depressed and getting on the valve seat 660 out (in 41 moved to the right) becomes the first feed spring 630 deformed flexibly in the course of this movement and thereby compressed, whereupon the feed gate 640 on the valve seat 660 (in the direction opposite to the loading direction of the first feed spring 630 and the second feed spring 650 ), and the second feed spring experiences a flexible deformation. This is the one in 41 illustrated condition.

Once the ink cartridge 14 in the case 40 the multifunction device 1 is installed, also learn the first and the second feed spring 630 and 650 an elastic deformation, thereby forming an ink flow path K indicated by the arrow K. The ink flow path K is a flow path that exists between the ink reservoir chamber 111 (please refer 14 ), the second feed connection hole 423 , the first feeder connection hole 421 , the first cover passage opening 683 (and the second cover through hole 684 ) of the cover 680 , the first valve seat through hole 662b and the second valve seat passage opening 663 of the valve seat 660 , the valve seat communication groove 664 of the valve seat 660 , the ink flow path 654 the second feed spring 650 , the slide passage opening 645 of the feed gate 640 , the ink flow path 634 of the first feed spring element 630 , the first spring element 930 and the valve bearing part 628 is formed, and is a flow path successively through the ink flow path 627 the supply valve 620 , the recess 49a the needle 49 and the inside of the needle 49 leads. The space between the valve outer peripheral wall 622 the supply valve 620 and the inner peripheral surface of the ink supply member 116 is also an ink flow path.

It will now be the operation of the feed seal 610 when inserting the needle 49 inside the feed seal 610 described. If the needle 49 through the step part flow path 615a in the projection part flow path 615b is pressed, the sealing projection part 614 from the needle 49 due to the friction between its own inner peripheral surface 614a and the outer peripheral surface of the needle 49 pulled and in the direction of insertion (in 41 to the right) of the needle 49 shifted (in the contact part flow path 615c moved in). In this case, has the sealing contact part 613 a recessed structure with a recessed shape, so that the displacement of the sealing projection part 614 in the insertion direction of the needle 49 not immediately on the top 613a of the sealing contact part 613 is transmitted. In other words, the top 613a of the sealing contact part 613 is hardly displaced in the direction of insertion, but becomes slightly in a direction of the needle 49 moved away. Thus, the shape change of the feed seal 610 in the course of insertion of the needle 49 so that the sealing contact parts 613 be moved away from each other. Suppose the seal contact part 613 had a shape with a slightly oblique surface extending from the inner peripheral surface 614a the sealing projection part 614 to the top 613a of the sealing contact part 613 extended, the seal projection part would 614 when inserting the needle 49 in the sense of a shift in the direction of insertion of the needle 49 deform, the deformation of the sealing projection part 614 would directly on the seal contact part 613 transferred, and the sealing contact part 613 would be together with the seal protrusion part 614 moved in the insertion direction. As a result, the insertion distance of the needle would become 49 for forming an ink flow path between the supply valve 620 and the sealing contact part 613 lengthen, leaving the needle 49 would have to be made longer. Furthermore, it decreases with an extension of the needle 49 the likelihood of being damaged by contact with other components and the length of the ink delivery mechanism 500 in the direction of the axis 01 is larger, so that its size increases. However, in the present embodiment, since the seal contact part 613 is displaced in a direction substantially to the insertion direction of the needle 49 is orthogonal, the path for forming an ink flow path need not be made long. This makes it possible to contact the needle 49 to reduce with other components, causing both damage and an increase in the size of the ink supply mechanism 500 is reduced.

If the ink cartridge 14 from the multifunction device 1 is removed, the needle is 49 pulled out, whereupon the lower valve wall 621 the supply valve 620 the sealing contact part 613 contacted and thereby blocks the ink flow path K. Here, the second feed spring 650 completely relaxed while the first feed spring 630 returns to a slightly tensioned state.

When removing the ink cartridge ne 14 from the multifunction device 1 the needle 49 is pulled out, which flows in the vicinity of the ink flow path 615 the feed seal 610 (the contact part flow path 615c and the protrusion part flow path 615b ) existing ink to the ink cap 600 (left in 41 ) and out into the step part flow path 615a , Since the amount of in the step partial flow path 615a however, ink is minute due to the capillary force of the step part of the step part flow path 615a held back, leaving her spilling out of the ink cartridge 14 can be reduced. Even if they are out of the step partial flow path 615a Therefore, the outflowing ink runs into the ink storage part 607 the ink supply cap 600 because of the opening part of the ink storage part 602 the feed cap 600 wider than the opening 612c the step part flow path 615a is. Thus, it becomes possible to discharge ink from the ink cartridge 14 reliably prevent.

Next is the side of the ambient air intake mechanism 510 described. What the ambient air intake mechanism 510 concerns when the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 is installed, the valve opening part contacts 721a the ambient air valve 720 the back surface 56 of the housing 40 and presses the ambient air valve 720 low. As a result, the ambient air valve 720 from the sealing contact part 713 the ambient air seal 710 away, whereby an ambient air intake path L is formed, as illustrated by the arrow L in the drawing. If further, the valve opening part 721a the ambient air valve 720 the back surface 56 contacted and depressed by her, contacted the sealing collar part 714 the ambient air seal 710 the back surface 56 , and the sealing collar part 714 experiences a flexible deformation, so that its diameter is increased (or reduced). As a result, he becomes firm against the back surface 56 holds and blocks the exterior and the interior of the sealing collar part 714 , In the back area 56 on the inside of the sealing collar part 714 is a channel 54 formed, which serves as a channel for admitting ambient air, via this channel 54 into the ink reservoir 111 is admitted.

It will now be the operation of the ambient air intake mechanism 510 when depressing the ambient air valve 720 described. As described above, the first ambient air spring 730 that are inside the ambient air valve 720 (and the ambient air damper 740 ), a weakly stretched flexible spring member 733 on while in the flexible spring part 753 the second ambient air spring 750 there is no voltage. As a result, the order or magnitude of the tension of the first and the second ambient air spring 730 and 750 established.

Furthermore, the inner diameter of the valve outer peripheral wall 722 the ambient air valve 720 and the inner diameter of the slider outer peripheral wall 741 the ambient air valve 720 designed so that they are essentially the same.

This may cause the occurrence of misalignment in the direction of displacement when the ambient air damper 740 in the direction of the axis 02 of the ambient air intake mechanism 510 is prevented. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the slider outer peripheral wall 741 and the outer diameter of the lower spring parts 731 and 751 the first and the second ambient air spring element 730 and 750 designed so that they are essentially the same. This makes it possible to prevent misalignment in the direction orthogonal to the axis 02 (the up-down direction in FIG 41 ) to prevent when the first and the second ambient air spring 730 and 750 on the slider platform part 744 of the ambient air damper 740 are arranged.

Even if the outer shape of the Ventilaussenumfangswand 722 the ambient air valve 720 slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the ambient air intake element 117 is formed, further, a misalignment in the displacement direction can be prevented when the ambient air valve 720 in the direction of the axis 02 is active, because the valve projection part 722a from the valve outer peripheral wall 722 the ambient air valve 720 is designed to the outside. This becomes the mating in the direction of the axis 02 of the ambient air intake mechanism 510 stabilized.

Further, when the ambient air valve 720 from the valve opening part 721a is depressed and on the projection part 811 out (to the right in 41 ), experiences the first ambient air spring 730 in the course of this movement a flexible deformation by being compressed and when the ambient air valve 720 is depressed, moves the ambient air slider 740 on the projection part 811 towards, and the second ambient air spring 750 experiences a flexible deformation. This is the one in 41 illustrated condition.

If the ink cartridge 14 in the case 40 the multifunction device 1 installed, also experience the first and the second ambient air spring 730 and 750 an elastic deformation, forming an ambient air inlet path L represented by the arrow L. The ambient air Inlet path L is a flow path that is successively through the between the seal channel 715 the ambient air seal 710 , the ink flow path 727 the ambient air valve 720 , the first ambient air spring 730 and the valve bearing part 728 formed path; between the ink flow path 734 the first ambient air spring 730 , the slide passage opening 745 of the ambient air damper 740 , the ink flow path 754 the second ambient air spring 750 , the upper spring part 752 the second ambient air spring 750 and the projection part 811 trained path; and the first ambient air communication hole 434 runs. This flow path is the main flow path through which most of the ambient air flows. Furthermore, also forms the space between the Ventilaussenumfangswand 722 the ambient air valve 720 and the inner peripheral surface 810 the ambient air inlet element 117 a part of the ambient air inlet path. Subsequently, the ambient air occurs as shown in 16 through the first ambient air communication chamber 431 , the communicative opening 433a , the ambient air connection duct 433 , the communicative opening 433b , the second ambient air communication chamber 432 , the second ambient air communication hole 435 and the third ambient air communication hole 436 , and gets inside the ink supply chamber 111 admitted. When the ambient air inlet path L is opened, air is admitted so that the inside of the ink reservoir chamber 111 is brought to the ambient air pressure.

As described above, the ink flow path K and the ambient air inlet path L are formed when the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 will be installed. Furthermore, the operation of the ink supply mechanism 500 and the ambient air intake mechanism 510 such that they work smoothly and without misalignment with respect to the axes 01 and 02. This will install the ink cartridge 14 made easier while allowing the supply of ink and the inlet of ambient air to be reliably performed.

Next, referring to the 42 and 43 the method for detecting the amount of residual ink in the ink reservoir 111 described ben. 42 is a drawing showing the operation of the sensor arm 470 according to the amount of residual ink in the ink reservoir 111 illustrated. 42 (a) illustrates the condition with residual ink while 42 (b) illustrates the condition without residual ink (ink empty). 43 is a drawing that is the working principle of the sensor arm 470 illustrated schematically.

The direction of rotation of the sensor arm 470 is determined by the combined forces of lift and gravity imposed on the right side portion (on the side of the shielding arm portion arm 473c ) and the left side (on the side of the counterweight part 471 ). For ease of explanation, however, in the description that follows, assume that all of them are on the sensor arm 470 acting forces on the counterweight part 471 act. In the present description, this means that the buoyancy and the force of gravity acting on the other portions of the sensor arm 470 except the counterweight part 471 interact, be neglected. Instead, it is believed that the buoyancy and gravity affect the entire sensor arm 470 act on the counterweight part 471 act. Under this assumption, the rotation of the sensor arm 470 from the on the counterweight part 471 acting up buoyancy and gravity. In the state as shown in FIG 42 (a) in which there is a large amount of ink in the ink reservoir 111 is stored (in the state in which the ink at least to above the level of the lower ends of the Innenumfangverschweissteile 415a . 415b . 416a and 416b stored), which takes on the counterweight part 471 generated buoyancy force, and the counterweight part 471 floats in the ink because of the counterweight part 471 of the sensor arm 470 is formed of a plastic material whose relative density is lower than the relative density of the ink. When the counterweight part 471 is in the ink, as in 42 (a) is shown, cause the combined force of the counterweight part 471 generated gravity and buoyancy force, that a turning force in a clockwise direction (the direction of the arrow G1 in 43 ), but the shield arm part arm 473c device in contact with the arm support part 143 coming from the bottom wall 141 of the detection part 140 (Skirt portion 141 ) and is thus placed in a position where it is the optical path between the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b of the waste ink detection sensor 57 blocked. This is the state in which ink is present, and therefore the controller (not shown) of the multifunction device 1 detects the presence of ink.

While the ink is in the ink supply chamber 111 passes through the ink flow path K and decreases in quantity, the liquid level I of the ink drops. When the liquid level I of the inks falls, the blocking arm part is dipped arm 473c from the liquid level I of the ink, and later also the counterweight part emerges 471 from the liquid level I of the ink. If the counterweight part 471 emerges from the liquid level I of the ink, the hold on the counterweight part 471 generated buoyancy force, the sensor arm 470 to a clockwise rotation (in the direction of the Arrow G1 in 43 ), and those at the counterweight portion 471 generated gravity, which is a rotation of the sensor arm 470 counterclockwise (in the direction of the arrow G2 in 43 ) cause each other to balance, so that the combined total force is balanced. Then, when the liquid level I of the ink further drops, the counterweight part moves 471 downwards, following the liquid level I, leaving the sensor arm 470 turns counterclockwise. This turning operation causes the shielding arm part arm 473c , from the arm support part 143 to move upward, and an optical path between the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57 of the waste ink detection sensor 57 is produced. This state is the ink-empty state in which the controller (not shown) of the multifunction device 1 determines that the ink cartridge is out of ink.

In the above description, as shown in FIG 42 (b) is the counterweight part 471 near the lower part 400b1 (please refer 15 ) of the ink reservoir 111 positioned when there is almost no ink left. Thus, an "ink empty" detection can be properly made when the residual ink amount in the ink reservoir 111 has become low.

As shown in 42 (b) is still some ink remaining in the ink reservoir in the ink-empty state 111 available. The ink level I is slightly above the part at this time 400b1 holding the bottom of the ink supply chamber 111 represents. Further, according to the above explanation, the ink reserving chamber 111 and the ink supply part 120 over from the feeder partition 422 limited ink storage chamber 426 (please refer 15 ), and the ink reservoir 111 and the ink storage chamber 426 stand over the second feed connection hole 423 communicate with each other, which is below the at the feeder partition 422 provided lower part 400b1 is positioned. When the liquid level I of the ink is lower than the second feed connection hole 423 ambient air enters the area within the feeder partition 422 and makes the supply of ink impossible. To detect the "ink empty" condition immediately before ink can no longer be supplied is the sensor arm 470 in the present embodiment, therefore, to such a rotation that the ink-empty state is detected when the liquid level I of the ink is above the second feed connection hole 423 lies. By the second feed connection hole 423 below the part 400b1 is positioned, which is the lower part of the ink reservoir 111 , it becomes possible to reliably prevent the ink from going out before "ink-empty" is detected. Further, when an ink-empty state is detected, hardly any ink is left at the bottom 400b1 the ink reservoir 111 present, since then ink only in the interior of the depression subspace 424a is left, which is a relatively narrow space at a point below the lower part 400b1 in the ink reservoir 111 is formed so that the amount of unconsumed ink remaining in the detection of an ink depletion state is extremely small, thereby eliminating waste.

Around to inform the user that the device is out of ink as soon as the "ink empty" setting has been hit, the "ink empty" light turns on switched on, or an audible signal is used to inform the user that the device is out of ink. It is also possible to have a counter provided in the controller to keep track of how often ink was spent, and the amount of residual ink by additional use of a Software counter that determines hypothetically, that the device has no more ink.

As shown in the 42 (a) and 42 (b) is the mounting position of the mounting shaft 472a of the sensor arm 470 and the arm enclosing part 425 of the frame part 110 ie the position of the center (fulcrum) around which the sensor arm 470 pivots, under the detection part 140 and over the ink supply part 120 , and behind (left in 42 (a) and 42 (b) ) the supply path training part 420 in the installation direction of the ink cartridge 14 , In the present embodiment, the ink supply part 120 , the ambient air intake part 130 and the detection part 140 together on a side surface of the ink cartridge 14 arranged. This allows common arrangement of the various mechanisms (ink supply mechanism, ambient air inlet mechanism, and residual ink detection mechanism) on the refill unit 13 the multifunction device 1 , which prevents the shape of the refill unit 13 is complicated, and also their size is reduced. Furthermore, the ink supply part 120 , which is a part that supplies ink by allowing it to flow out of the multifunction device 1 caused, preferably on the lower side of the ink cartridge 14 arranged so as to provide a more complete consumption of the ink while the ambient air intake part 130 , which is a part of the ambient air in the ink cartridge 14 adopts, preferably on the upper side of the ink cartridge 14 is arranged. Thus, the detection part 140 in view of efficient use of space, preferably between the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 arranged. If at the thus configured Tin tenpatrone 14 In the present embodiment, the position of the rotational center of the sensor arm 470 above (or at the same position as) the detection part 140 is arranged, the length of the gap between the counterweight part 417 and the attachment part 472 bigger, the sensor arm 470 becomes larger and the storable amount of ink decreases accordingly. When the position of the center of rotation of the sensor arm 470 on the other hand, under the ink supply part 120 is the range of a possible movement of the counterweight part 471 extremely small and complicates the detection of ink depletion. Therefore, the position of the center of rotation of the sensor arm 470 (of the attachment part 472 existing "fulcrum") in the present embodiment over the ink supply member 120 and under the detection part 140 arranged. As a result, as described above, the ink-empty state is reliably detected, and a decrease in ink storage capability due to an increased size of the sensor arm 470 is avoided.

If further, with the ink cartridge 14 the counterweight part of the present embodiment 471 near the feeder partition 422 is arranged, there is the counterweight part 471 near the second feed connection hole 423 , and by the operation of the counterweight part 471 caused vibration is transferred to the ink and disturbs the flow of ink. In particular, ambient air may pass through the second feed connection hole 423 inside the feeder partition 422 occur when in the liquid level I of the ink waves occur, whereby the supply of ink is hindered. Conversely, the arm part 473 bigger, if the counterweight part 471 very far from the feeder dividing wall 422 is placed away, so that also the counterweight part 471 must be made larger, the buoyancy of the counterweight part 471 to make sure. This reduces the amount of ink in the ink reservoir 111 can be stored. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the position of the rotational center of the sensor arm 470 near the feeder partition 422 arranged, and the counterweight part 471 is at the center of the ink reservoir 111 positioned in the Y direction, thereby avoiding the aforementioned enlargement of the sensor arm and adverse effects on ink flow.

If, as shown in 42 (a) the sensor arm 470 at the arm enclosure part 425 is attached and ink is available, lies the upper end surface of the Abschirmungsarmteils arm 473c (the upper end face in 42 ) substantially parallel to the liquid level of the ink. In this state, when the liquid level fills the ink and the same position as the upper end surface of the shielding arm arm 473c achieved, the surface tension of the ink acts as a force affecting the shielding arm 473 holds. When the force with which the surface tension of the ink the shield arm arm 473c holds, greater than the buoyancy force of the counterweight part 473a is the sensor arm works 470 not working properly.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the upper end surface which is the outer side of the detection part 140 of the shielding arm arm 473c represents, provided at a downward inclined angle, whereby the portion of the Abschirmungsarms arm 473c which is substantially parallel to the liquid level of the ink is reduced in size. This can reduce the force resulting from the surface tension of the ink on the shield arm arm 473c is exercised, resulting in normal operation of the sensor arm 470 is possible.

It will now be referring to 44 a case is discussed in which the ink cartridge 14 is installed with a wrong orientation. 44 FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the ink cartridge. FIG 14 with a wrong orientation in the multifunction device 1 will be installed.

If, as shown in 44 when inserting the ink cartridge 14 in the housing the top and bottom are reversed in comparison with the proper installation orientation, the tips of the housing projections collide 214a and 224a with the tip of the tab 55 , In an installation where the top and bottom are reversed compared to the proper installation orientation, the ink supply part is located 120 over the ambient air intake part 130 , resulting in a misalignment (or a second orientation) compared to the proper installation orientation.

As shown in 44 is the total protrusion distance t9, which is the protrusion range of the protrusion 55 from the back surface 56 of the housing 40 and the protrusion distance of the housing protrusions 214a and 224a from the case 200 longer than the protrusion distance t8 of the needle 49 from the needle forming element 48 , The provision of a difference between the protrusion distance t8 and the protrusion distance t9 prevents contact between the ambient air intake part 130 Outwardly projecting tip of the valve port part 721a and the tip of the needle 49 , The needle 49 is an element for taking out the ink inside the ink cartridge 14 and supplying the ink to the ink jet recording head (not shown) so that ink is not precisely supplied and printing is not performed precisely if the needle 49 damaged or deformed. A Beschä damage or deformation of the needle 49 by a collision between the needle 49 and the valve opening part 721a is therefore not desirable. However, by providing a difference between the protrusion distance t8 and the protrusion distance t9 as described above, a collision between the needle 49 and the valve opening part 721a be prevented, thereby making it possible to damage or deformation of the needle 49 prevent and allow the reliable supply of ink.

Further, the position of the through hole (detection window) is that of the part to be detected 140 and the housing recesses 213 and 223 in the vertical direction (the up-down direction in 44 ) is offset slightly from the center so that the waste ink detection sensor 57 when installing the ink cartridge 14 with inverted top and bottom in comparison with the proper installation orientation with the outer wall of the housing 200 can collide what the residual ink detection sensor 57 can damage. However, since a difference is provided between the protrusion distance t8 and the protrusion distance t9, it becomes possible to damage the residual ink detection sensor 57 due to a collision with the outer wall of the housing 200 to prevent, whereby a precise detection of the amount of residual ink is made possible.

Next, referring to 45 the procedure for removing the ink cartridge 14 out of that in the multifunction device 1 installed state described. 45 is a drawing illustrating the method for removing the ink cartridge 14 from the multifunction device 1 ,

To the ink cartridge 14 from the multifunction device 1 (refill 13 ), as shown in 45 (a) the release lever 63 the flap 41 forward (left in 45 (a) ) (in the direction of the arrow in 45 (a) pivoted). As explained above, the engagement between the flap locking element 62 and the locking element A fitting part 46 lifted when the release lever 63 is pivoted, and as a result, the flap 41 be pivoted forward.

A section of the hook part 65b of the pull-out element 65 the flap 41 is inside the depression parts 216a and 226a (the deepening part 226a is located in 45 (a) on the back and is therefore not shown) of the housing 200 arranged, and thus if the tip of the hook part 65b of the pull-out element 65 the flap 41 through the release lever 63 is pivoted, it contacts the locking parts 216b and 226b (the locking part 226b is located in 45 (b) on the back and is therefore not shown) of the housing 200 (the state of 45 (b) ). If the flap 41 from the state of 45 (b) continue forward (in the direction of the arrow in 45 (b) ) is pivoted, the locking parts 216b and 226b of the housing 200 from the hook part 65b of the pull-out element 65 pulled out, and thereby stands a section of the ink cartridge 14 from the inside of the case 40 before (the state of 45 (c) ). From this condition, the user can use the ink cartridge 14 take out easily. This is the handling of the ink cartridge 14 improved during the replacement operation.

With reference to 46 Now, the mechanism for preventing the splash of ink when taking out the ink cartridge 14 from the multifunction device 1 described. 46 is a drawing showing the state when removing the ink cartridge 14 from the multifunction device 1 and a front view of the ink cartridge 14 shows. 46 (a) and 46 (b) are drawings showing the change of state when taking out the ink cartridge 14 illustrate, and 46 (c) shows a front view of the ink cartridge 14 ,

As explained above, when installing the ink cartridge 14 in the multifunction device 1 the needle 49 inside the ink supply part 120 used. The ink supply mechanism 500 has a valve mechanism provided by a first feed spring 630 and a second feed spring 650 is applied, so that when removing the ink cartridge 14 from the multifunction device 1 (at the transition from the state of 46 (a) to the state of 46 (b) ) Ink on the protruding tip of the needle 49 or, in the worst case, ink from the ink supply member 120 can flow out. As the valve 620 when removing the needle 49 from the feed seal 610 due to the pressing force of the first feed spring 630 and the second feed spring 650 moved in one direction in which it seals the contact part 613 contacted, ink is in the direction of outflow from the projection part flow path 615b to the step partial flow path 615a pushed out, leaving some ink on the protruding tip 49 stick to the needle or from the ink supply part 120 can flow out. Consequently, the at the top of the needle 49 stuck ink when removing the ink cartridge 14 drop as drops of ink, or ink may be at the ink supply part 120 run down.

However, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG 46 (b) the out of the housing protrusions 214a and 224a existing Projection (first projection part) further outwards (to the right in 46 (b) ) protrudes as the projecting tip of the ink supply member 120 , splashed ink may be caused to be on the surface on the side of the ink supply part 120 the housing protrusions 214a and 224a to stick even if those at the top of the needle 49 sticking ink drops as drops of ink or when ink from the ink supply part 120 running down. Furthermore, since the housing protrusions 214a and 224a and the ink supply part 120 are positioned relatively close to each other, it is easy that from the ink supply part 120 splashes ink to adhere to the housing protrusions 214a and 224a to induce.

As shown in 46 (c) is the insertion hole 605 the feed cap 600 an ink supply port into which the needle 49 is inserted and flows out through the ink, and the thickness t11 of the housing protrusions 214a and 224a in the width direction (the left-right direction in 46 (c) ; the Z direction) of the ink cartridge 14 is longer than the diameter t10 of the insertion hole 605 made. (The diameter of the needle 49 is formed to be slightly narrower than the diameter t10 of the through hole 605 Further, when viewed vertically (in the Y direction), the insertion hole is 605 completely in the jump of the Gehäusevor 214a and 224a housed area. Even if when removing the ink cartridge 14 at the top of the needle 49 adhering ink drips or ink from the insertion hole 605 Therefore, the splashed ink may leak through the housing protrusions 214a and 224a be intercepted. By the housing protrusions 214a and 224a further horizontally (in the left-right direction in FIG 46 (a) and (b)) in the installation orientation of the ink cartridge 14 protrude, and the surface on the side of the ink supply part 120 is formed substantially flat, can be prevented that on the housing protrusions 214a and 224a adhering ink drips down further. As a result, it is possible to prevent ink from entering the refill unit 13 dribbles and pollutes their inside. If the interior of the refill unit 13 The ink cartridge may become dirty 14 during installation or while removing the cartridge 14 be soiled, so that the user gets dirty hands. However, such problems can be avoided by preventing as far as possible the ink on the interior of the refill unit 13 adheres.

Although the configuration described above for preventing soiling is desirable, the configuration is not limited to this as long as shown in FIG 46 (c) the housing protrusions 214a and 224a at least partially over the line in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge 14 (Up-down direction in 46 (c) ) through the middle of the communicating opening 605 runs (line p in 46 (c) ; through the middle of the opening 600a the feed cap 600 running line). The reason is that a lot of the ink coming from the ink supply part 120 and the needle 49 drips, can take a downhill path along the line p. Even if the length of the housing protrusions 214a and 224a in the width direction of the ink cartridge 14 shorter than the length t10 in the width direction of the insertion hole 605 Therefore, such a configuration can be made to prevent contamination of the refill unit 13 contribute. In this case, the force with which the housing protrusions 214a and 224a Ink can adhere to weakened, which is why it may be assumed that on the housing protrusions 214a and 224a trapped ink down into the refill unit 13 can drip. The ink cartridge to be replaced 14 However, hardly ever ever long inside the refill unit 13 left while the tip of the needle 49 from the ink supply part 120 is pulled out, but rather quickly from the refill unit 13 taken out why the occurrence of such a problem is unlikely. Even if the housing protrusions 214a and 224a are formed narrow, the ink cartridge collides 14 with the tip of the tab 55 if installed with the wrong orientation, preventing a wrong installation. Even if the housing protrusions 214a and 224a are not accurately positioned on the line p as long as vertically below the ink feed part 120 are positioned, they can be from the ink supply part 120 intercept dripping ink to some extent, thereby allowing fouling of the interior of the refill unit 13 to avoid to a greater extent than if the housing protrusions 214a and 224a would not be provided.

Next, referring to 47 the structure for reducing adhesion of ink to the detection surfaces 140a and 140b the registration unit 140 the ink cartridge 14 described. 47 Fig. 12 is a drawing for illustrating the structure for reducing the adhesion of ink to the detection surfaces 140a and 140b the registration unit 140 the ink cartridge 14 , 47 (a) represents the state in which the ink cartridge 14 in the refill unit 13 (Multifunction device 1 ) is installed or removed from it; 47 (b) is a drawing to illustrate the surface on which the detection part 140 the ink cartridge 14 is trained; and 47 (c) is a perspective view of the ink cartridge 14 , The ink cartridge 14 from 47 (a) is shown simplified, the detailed structure is not shown, since this figure has the purpose of the outer shape of the ink cartridge 14 and their positional relationship to the detection part 140 to illustrate.

As shown in 47 (a) may be from the projecting tip of the ink supply part 120 or from the projecting tip of the needle 49 Ink splashed when the ink cartridge 14 in the refill unit 13 installed or removed from it. This is due to the fact that the ink supply mechanism 500 the ink supply part 120 by the elastic force of the first and second feed springs 630 and 650 opens and closes, increasing the pressure of the ink when installing and removing the ink cartridge 14 quickly changed, which causes the inside of the ink supply mechanism 500 ink ejected under pressure, as well as the fact that the ink can flow back and spatter when the needle 49 from inside the ink supply part 120 positioned state (from the installed state of the ink cartridge 14 ) is suddenly exposed to the outside. However, ink does not come up every time you install or remove the ink cartridge 14 squirts, and in most cases, no splashing of ink occurs.

Further, as shown in FIG 47 (a) the ink cartridge 14 is in the installation orientation, is the detection part 140 positioned in a position corresponding to the waste ink detection sensor 57 corresponds, so the detection part 140 above the ink supply part 120 (or the needle 49 ) is positioned. The bulk of the ink coming out of the needle 49 and the ink supply part 120 is sprayed, is by its own weight downwards (opposite to the direction of the detection part 140 ), so that ink adheres to the detection part 140 can be reduced simply by the fact that the detection part 140 above the ink supply part 120 is arranged. Furthermore, the detection areas 140a and 140b formed in a plane parallel to the connecting line of the center of the detection part 140 and the cap insertion opening 605 is (see 47 (b) ). The bulk of the cap insertion 605 spattered ink is squirted substantially in a straight line, so that even when squirting ink from the cap insertion opening 605 not much ink on the detection surfaces 140a and 140b adheres, thereby making it possible to adhere ink to the detection surfaces 140a and 140b to reduce.

Further, as shown in FIG 47 (b) the ink cartridge 14 is taken out during use and arranged so that in the positional relationship of the ink supply member 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 related to the installation orientation of the ink cartridge 14 up and down are reversed (alignment of 47 (a) ), may ink from the insertion hole 605 the feed cap 600 of the ink supply part 120 drain. Because of the insertion hole 605 dripping ink drains below its own weight, it flows substantially in a straight line on the detection part 140 and sticks to the detection surfaces 140a and 140b of the detection part 140 ,

When the detection part 140 but is in a state where it is under the ambient air inlet part 130 and over the ink supply part 120 is arranged (state of 47 (b) ), are the detection areas 140a and 140b of the detection part 140 vertical (up-down direction relative to the direction of the symbol in 47 (b) ), so that the at the detection surfaces 140a and 140b adhering ink under its own weight on the side of the ambient air intake part 130 dripping down. Furthermore, because the surface of the detection surfaces 140a and 140b formed of a plastic material as a smooth plane, adhering ink can easily drain. This makes it possible to adhere ink to the side surface of the detecting part 140 to reduce. Further, the ink supply part is located 120 during installation of the ink cartridge 14 at the lower part, and the ambient air intake part 130 is located at the top (orientation of 47 (a) ), so even if ink during installation or removing the ink cartridge 14 at the detection part 140 adheres the ink to the side of the ink supply part 120 flows, thereby making it possible to adhere ink to the detection surfaces 140a and 140b to reduce. Moreover, according to the above discussion, the edge part 40 the detection areas 140a and 140b and the side surface 100a of the frame part 110 formed substantially at a right angle, so that at the detection surfaces 140a and 140b adhesive ink due to the effect of the capillary force of the edge part 140c can flow easier downhill. This may cause ink to adhere to the sensing surfaces 140a and 140b be reduced.

As shown in 47 (c) is the detection part 140 inside the case 200 arranged, and a space in which the light-emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b of the waste ink detection sensor 57 enter, is on both sides of the detection areas 140a and 140b through the housing recesses 213 and 223 educated. Thus, the detection part 140 from the case 200 covered, and even if ink should be splashed, may stick to the detection surfaces 140a and 140b spilled ink can be reduced. Further, since a portion of the ink supply part 120 from the case 200 projecting outwards, the distance from the detection part 140 in the installation orientation of the ink cartridge 14 (State of 47 (a) ) greater. Thus, the majority of the splashed ink reaches the detection part 140 not, thereby allowing ink to adhere to the detection surfaces 140a and 140b to reduce. Furthermore, the housing protrusions 214a and 224a and the housing protrusions 214b and 224b formed at the ends, the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 are located between the housing protrusions 214a and 224a and the housing protrusions 214b and 224b , and the housing protrusions 214a and 224a and the housing protrusions 214b and 224b extend further outward than the ink supply member 120 , If the ink cartridge 14 can be accidentally dropped, therefore, can prevent the ink supply part 120 contacted the surface on which the ink cartridge 14 is dropped, thereby making it possible to discharge ink from the ink supply part 120 as a result of the impact. As a result, adhesion of the ink to the detection surfaces 140a and 140b be reduced.

Next, referring to the 48 and 49 the housing 40 (please refer 2 ) of the refill unit 13 described. 48 is a drawing showing the front view of the case 40 shows. 48 (a) is a front view of the housing 40 that is a large-sized black ink cartridge or a black ink cartridge 14 and color ink cartridges 14 can record, and 48 (b) is a front view of the housing 2040 , the black ink cartridges 14 and color ink cartridges 14 can record. In the present embodiment, the housing 40 in the multifunction device 1 arranged, but it can also be a multifunction device 1 be made available at the case 2040 instead of the housing 40 is arranged. 49 is a cross-sectional view showing a simplified cross-section of the housing 40 and 2040 shows.

49 (a) is a simplified cross-sectional view of the housing 40 along the line XXXXIXa-XXXXIXa of 48 (a) , and 49 (b) is a simplified cross-sectional view of the housing 2040 along the line XXXXIXb-XXXXIXb of 48 (b) , 49 shows a cross section of the needle forming element 48 and the ink cartridge 14 , wherein the other components of the housing 40 and 2040 have been omitted in the illustration. Furthermore, in the 48 to 50 a color ink cartridge as an ink cartridge 14c shown, a black ink cartridge is as an ink cartridge 14k1 shown, and a large-sized black ink cartridge is as an ink cartridge 14k2 shown.

As shown in 48 (a) is the case 40 configured to accommodate four ink cartridges, leaving them in the case 40 lined up. As for the arrangement of the four ink cartridges, so are three color ink cartridges 14c juxtaposed, and a large black ink cartridge 14k2 or a black ink cartridge 14k1 is arranged adjacent thereto. In other words, the large-sized black ink cartridge 14k2 or the black ink cartridge 14k1 selectively at an end position in the line-up direction of the ink cartridges (left-right direction in FIG 48 (a) ) housed. The housing 40 as shown in 48 (a) takes a large black ink cartridge 14k2 on.

As shown in 48 (b) is the case 2040 configured to accommodate four arranged ink cartridges. As for the arrangement of the four ink cartridges, so are three color ink cartridges 14c juxtaposed, and a black ink cartridge 14k1 is arranged adjacent thereto. In other words - as with the case 40 - the black ink cartridge 14k1 at an end position in the line-up direction of the ink cartridges (left-right direction in FIG 48 (b) ) housed.

Because the case 40 the installation of both a large black ink cartridge 14k2 as well as a black ink cartridge 14k1 allows, it is designed so that it is the thickness of the large-size black ink cartridge 14k2 receives. Therefore, the lateral width is t14 (the width in the array direction of the ink cartridges 14c and 14k2 ; Left-right direction in 48 (a) ) of the housing 40 larger than the lateral width t15 (the width in the line-up direction of the ink cartridges 14c and 14k1 ; Left-right direction in 48 (b) ). The difference between the lateral width t14 of the housing 40 and the lateral width t15 of the housing 2040 corresponds to the difference between the height of the vertical wall parts 220b to 220e of the second housing element 220 as shown in 11 and the height of the vertical wall parts 2220b to 2220e of the second housing element 2220 as shown in 13 ,

Furthermore, the housing allows 40 selectively installing a black ink cartridge 14k1 or a large black ink cartridge 14k2 while the case 2040 just the installation of the black ink cartridge 14k1 allows. This implies the supply of users with two types of multifunction device 1 , As discussed above, users who do not frequently print text do not require a large black ink cartridge 14k2 so it is preferable to such users a smaller multifunction device 1 to provide the installation of a large format black zen ink cartridge 14k2 does not allow. Furthermore, the outer shape of the housing differs 2040 for the installation of black ink cartridges 14k1 and the housing 40 for the installation of large format black ink cartridge 14k2 only slightly, so that most of the molds used for these two can be used together, whereby a cost reduction is provided.

When the ink cartridges 14c and 14k2 as shown in 49 (a) in the case 40 are housed, penetrates a needle 49 in the ink supply mechanism 500 each of the ink cartridges 14c and 14k2 one. The spaces t16 between the color ink cartridges 14c penetrating needles 49 are the same size, while the space t17 between the in the large-sized black ink cartridge 14k2 and the in the adjacent color ink cartridge 14c penetrating needle 49 is formed with a larger distance than the gap t16. The difference between the gap t16 and the gap t17 corresponds to the difference between the height of the vertical wall parts 210b to 210e the first Gehäusele management 210 as shown in 8th and the height of the vertical wall parts 2210b to 2210E of the first housing element 2210 as shown in 13 ,

When the ink cartridges 14c and 14k1 as shown in 49 (b) inside the case 2040 are housed, penetrates a needle 49 in the ink supply mechanism 500 each of the ink cartridges 14c and 14k1 one. The gap t16 between the color ink cartridges 14c penetrating needles 49 and the gap t17 between the black ink cartridge 14k1 penetrating needle 49 and the one into the adjacent color ink cartridge 14c penetrating needle 49 have the same length as the spaces t16 and t17 of the housing 40 , The reason for this is that the condition of recording (recording orientation) of the black ink cartridge 14k1 in the case 2040 arranging the first housing element 1210 the black ink cartridge 14k1 on the side of the color ink cartridge 14c assuming the distance between the black ink cartridge 14k1 penetrating needle 49 and the one into the adjacent color ink cartridge 14c penetrating needle 49 equal to the distance between the in the large black ink cartridge 14k2 of the housing 40 penetrating needle 49 and the one into the adjacent color ink cartridge 14c penetrating needle 49 becomes. In other words, the reason for this is that the position of the ink supply part 120 the ink cartridge 14k1 and the position of the ink supply part 120 the ink cartridge 14k2 based on the position of the ink supply part 120 the ink cartridge 14c are the same. As a result, identical needle-forming elements 48 in the case 40 and the housing 2040 are provided, although the lateral widths t14 and t15 of the housing 40 and 2040 may be different, whereby the needle forming element 48 becomes a common component and the cost in the manufacture of two housings - housing 40 and housing 2040 - can be lowered.

Furthermore, the ink supply mechanism 500 as previously discussed, a valve mechanism derived from the first feed spring 630 and the second feed spring 650 is applied, so that when removing the ink cartridge 14 from the multifunction device 1 Ink from the ink supply part 120 can flow out, or in the worst case, ink can splash around. The needles 49 are arranged side by side, without any separating plates between the needles 49 are provided, and when ink from the ink supply part 120 splashes, the splashed ink ultimately adheres to the adjacent needles 49 , The needles 49 are parts of the multifunction device 1 Add ink, and if an ink with a different color in a needle 49 is mixed, a color change occurs during printing and the print quality decreases. In the present embodiment, the black ink is a pigment-type ink, while the color inks are dye-type inks. The reason for this is that black ink is mainly used for printing text and therefore consists of a pigment-type ink with a low ability to penetrate paper to obtain sharp edges of characters, while color ink is mainly used for printing images and Therefore, it is made of a dye-type ink having a high ability to penetrate into paper to make the granularity of dots less prominent and to improve the appearance of coloration. Even if mixing of color inks has little color change effect, the color change effect is stronger when black ink mixes with another color of ink, so that mixing of black ink with different color inks is not desirable. Further, when mixed with other colored ink, recovery processing (expelling) under forced ejection of ink is generally performed, but because ink is wasted for recovery processing, the efficiency of ink usage lowers. Moreover, since black ink is a pigment-type ink, it has a higher viscosity than dye-type ink, so that it can not be easily removed even when performing recovery processing. However, in the present embodiment, the ink cartridges containing black ink are 14k1 and 14k2 at the end in the direction of the arrangement in the housing 40 at ordered, and the ink supply part 120 (and the needle 49 ) are from color ink cartridges 14c so that even if black ink should be splashed, sticking of the splashed ink to the adjacent needle 49 rather unlikely. Thus, deterioration of the print quality can be prevented, as well as the waste of large amounts of ink for recovery processing.

Next, referring to 50 the state of installation of the large-sized black ink cartridge 14k2 or the black ink cartridge 14k1 and the color ink cartridges 14c in the case 40 described. 50 is a simplified cross-section that simplifies the state of installation of ink cartridges 14c . 14k1 and 14k2 inside the case 40 illustrated. 50 (a) illustrates this in the housing 40 installed state of the ink cartridges 14k1 and 14c , and 50 (b) illustrates this in the housing 40 installed state of the ink cartridges 14k2 and 14c ,

As shown in 50 (a) are in the bottom plate part 42 and in the ceiling panel part 44 the refill unit 13 (Casing 40 ) Recording grooves 42cl to 42c4 and 44c1 to 44c4 formed, which are able, the Gehäuseldschweissteile 216 . 226 respectively. 1216 and the Gehäuseverschweissteile 217 . 227 respectively. 1217 of the housing 200 or the housing 1200 take. The recording grooves 42c1 to 42c4 and 44cl to 44c4 are all formed with a same shape.

Furthermore, the space between the grooves represents 42c1 and 42C2 and the space between the grooves 42C2 and 42c3 a separation distance t12 available, while the space between the grooves 42c3 and 42c4 provides a separation distance t13 that is greater than the distance t12. The reason for this is, according to the above discussion, that the black ink cartridge 14k1 with a larger outer shape than the other color ink cartridges 14c is formed, so that the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 the black ink cartridge 14k1 are at a position that is the difference between the distance t12 and the distance t13 in the direction from the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 the other color ink cartridges 14c (Left-right direction in 50 ) is shifted. The difference between the distance t12 and the distance t13 is equal to the above-described difference between the gap t16 and the gap t17 between the needles 49 and corresponds to the difference between the height of the vertical wall parts 210b to 210e of the first housing element 210 as shown in 8th and the height of the vertical wall parts 2210b to 2210E of the first housing element 2210 as shown in 13 , or the difference between the vertical wall parts 210b to 210e of the first housing element 210 as shown in 8th and the vertical wall parts 1210b to 1210e of the first housing element 1210 as shown in 11 ,

Furthermore, a predetermined gap X between the outer surface of the second housing 220 the black ink cartridge 14k1 and the inner surface of the side plate part 43 educated. This predetermined gap X is formed around the large-sized black ink cartridge 14k2 to be able to record. As shown in 50 (b) It serves namely to the use of the refill unit 13 for both the black ink cartridge 14k1 as well as the large black ink cartridge 14k2 to enable.

If, as shown in 50 (b) a large black ink cartridge 14k2 in the refill unit 13 is installed, the gap is occupied when installing a black ink cartridge 14k1 would arise. In addition, the positions of the ink supply part are 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 during installation of the ink cartridge 14k1 and the installation of the ink cartridge 14k2 equal. Thus, the same housing 40 with black ink cartridges 14k1 and 14k2 can be used, whereby the manufacturing costs can be reduced.

Next, referring to 51 described the combination of components that make up the case 200 . 1200 and 2200 consist. 51 is a schematic drawing showing the combination of the housing elements 210 . 220 . 1210 . 2210 and 2220 illustrated schematically.

51 (a) is a schematic drawing of the housing 200 , According to the present embodiment, the housing 200 a first and a second housing element 210 and 220 on, wherein the thickness of the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 (the height of the vertical wall parts 210b to 210e and 220b to 220e the ers th and the second housing element 210 and 220 ; Left-right direction in 51 (a) ) is t18 in each case.

51 (b) is a schematic drawing of the housing 2200 , The housing 2200 has a first and a second housing element 2210 and 2220 on, wherein the thickness of the first and the second housing element 2210 and 2220 (the high of Vertical wall parts 2210b to 2210E and 2220b to 2220e the first and the second housing element 2210 and 2220 ; Left-right direction in 51 (b) ) is t19, which is about twice the thickness of t18.

51 (c) is a schematic drawing of the housing 1200 , The housing 1200 has a first and a second housing element 1210 and 220 on, wherein the thickness of the first and the second housing element 1210 and 220 (the height of the vertical wall parts 1210b to 1210e and 220b to 220e the first and the second housing element 1210 and 220 ; Left-right direction in 51 (c) ) for the first housing element 1210 t19 and for the second housing element 220 t18 is.

Thus, according to the present embodiment, three types of housings, 200 . 1200 and 2200 - With different sizes of the external shape (different in internal volume) of two first housing elements with a different thickness and two second housing elements formed with a different thickness. In the present embodiment, the thicknesses of the first and second housing members are 210 and 220 for forming the housing 200 the same, and also the thicknesses of the first and the second housing element 2110 and 2220 for forming the housing 2200 are equal, but such an equal dimensioning of the thicknesses is to form three housing types - 200 . 1200 and 2200 - not indispensable with different sizes of the external shape.

As long as the thickness of one side (first housing element 2210 ) of the housing elements making up the largest first ink cartridge (housing 2200 ) is greater than the thickness of one side (first housing element 210 ) of the housing elements, from which the smaller third ink cartridge (housing 200 ), and the thickness of the other side (second housing member 2220 ) of the housing members constituting the largest first ink cartridge is larger than the thickness of one side (second housing member 220 ) of the case members constituting the smaller third ink cartridge, three case types having different sizes of the outer shape can be made of four case members. The above-described conditions are referred to as the first conditions. By adding more conditions to these initial conditions, four package types can be made from four package members. This will be described in detail below.

The housing 200 . 1200 and 2200 are made of plastic material and are manufactured by injection molding. Thus, for each case 200 . 1200 and 2200 requires a corresponding mold, with six mold types are required when molds are to be made for all housing. Because the case 200 . 1200 and 2200 have a cavity, at least two elements are required for their preparation, for. As an open on one side container main body and a cover member which closes this opening. Therefore, with three different sized cases 200 . 1200 and 2200 requires six element types.

However, since molds are expensive, it is desirable to be able to use them together as possible. In the present embodiment, the second housing member 220 for black together with the second housing element 220 executed for color. Thus, for the second housing member 220 No special molding tool needed for Black, which provides a cost reduction. In addition, the first housing element includes 1210 for black only that the first housing element 210 made deeper for color and a rib 1218 is provided. Thus, the tip side of the vertical wall parts 1210b to 1210e over the rib 1218 in addition to the first housing element used for black 1210 the same shape as the tip side of the vertical wall parts 210b to 210e of the first housing element used for paint 210 , Therefore, the first housing elements 1210 and 210 using a common mold for the main portion of the first housing elements 1201 and 210 be prepared, wherein between a the first housing element 210 corresponding element and a first housing element 1210 corresponding element is changed. As a result, the cost can be reduced in comparison with the production of two types of molds. Furthermore, the first housing element 2210 for large format black the same shape as the first case element 1210 owns for black, but without the rib 1218 , may be a common molding tool for the main portion of the first housing elements 210 . 1201 and 2210 be used. In this way, cost reduction can be achieved by using common dies as much as possible even if there are several types of ink cartridges 144c . 14k1 and 14k2 gives.

If further, with the different sized housings 200 . 1200 and 2200 the through holes that allow the ink supply part 120 and the ambient air intake part 130 outwardly projecting, are executed with the same shape, and substantially semicircular Gehäuseausnehmungen 211 . 212 . 221 . 222 . 1211 . 1212 . 2211 . 2212 . 2221 and 2222 corresponding to one-half of these through-holes having the same substantially semicircular shape in the first housing member 210 , the second housing element 220 , the first one housing element 1210 for black, the first housing element 2210 for large black, and the second housing element 2220 For large format black, a partial common structure can be used for each mold, thereby lowering the design cost of the molds.

In the present embodiment, the housing has been 1200 from the second housing element 220 of the housing 200 and a first housing element 1210 substantially the same shape as the first housing member of the housing 2200 educated. As shown in 51 (d) However, it is also possible, a housing 1200a from the first housing element 210 of the housing 200 and a second housing member 1220 to create, in essence, the same shape as the second housing element of the housing 2200 is trained. Since the vertical wall parts 210b to 210e and 220b to 220e the housing elements 210 and 220 are formed so that they are substantially the same height, and since the vertical wall parts 210b to 210e and 220b to 220e the housing elements 2210 and 2220 are formed so that they are substantially the same height, the sizes of the outer shape of the housing 1200a and the housing 1200 essentially the same.

Furthermore, it is possible to have a housing that consists of a combination of the first housing element 210 and the second housing member 2220 consists, or a housing, which consists of a combination of the first housing element 2210 and the second housing member 220 exists simply as the housing for black produce. In other words, as long as the combination of the housing elements allows the creation of three housings - a small housing for paint, a large housing for larger blacks, and a medium housing for blacks - any type of combination can be used.

Next, referring to 52 a second embodiment described. 52 is a drawing showing the ink cartridge 3014 and the refill unit 3013 of the second embodiment. 52 (a) is a drawing showing the side surface of the ink cartridge 3014 of the second embodiment, and 52 (b) shows the cross section in the state with in the refill unit 3013 installed ink cartridge 3014 ,

As shown in 52 (a) is the ink cartridge 3014 the second embodiment with a compared to the ink cartridge 14 the first embodiment, other location of the ambient air intake part 130 designed. For the ink cartridge 3014 In the second embodiment, ambient air is introduced into the ink cartridge 3014 through an ambient air intake duct 3131 let in from the one on the top of the case 3200 trained passage opening 3130 is formed labyrinth-shaped.

As shown in 52 (b) is the refill unit 3013 the second embodiment designed so that the position of the flap 41 provided pressing element 3061 lower than the position of the flap 41 the first embodiment provided pressing element 61 is. The reason for this is that on the to pressing element 3061 the ink cartridge 3014 opposite side surface of the second embodiment, no air inlet part is present, and therefore the installation of the ink cartridge 3014 in the refill unit 3013 acting elastic force (the elastic force due to the first feed spring 630 and the second feed spring 650 ) only on the lower part of the ink cartridge 3014 acts. To the ink cartridge 3014 in a stable manner inside the refill unit 3013 to install, therefore, are the pressure element 3061 and the ink supply part 120 configured to be substantially on the same line in the horizontal direction (left-right direction in FIG 52 (b) ) lie. By being positioned substantially on a same line, the direction in which the elastic force acts is also substantially in line, causing the ink cartridge to tilt 3014 reduced and their stable installation is enabled.

The ink cartridge 3014 The second embodiment may have an ink reservoir member inside 100 or be configured to allow ink inside the case 3200 is stored.

Next, with reference to 53 the third and the fourth embodiment described. 53 Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the external appearance of the ink cartridges 4014 and 5014 the third and fourth embodiments. 53 (a) Fig. 12 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the ink cartridge 4014 the third embodiment, and 53 (b) Fig. 12 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the ink cartridge 5014 the fourth embodiment.

As shown in 53 (a) points the ink cartridge 4014 the third embodiment, a through hole 4130 for introducing ambient air into the ink cartridge 4014 in a section of their top (top in 53 (a) ) is trained. The air passing through this passage 4130 is admitted, passes through a labyrinth-shaped air inlet duct 4131 (a relatively long channel with a small interior diameter) and gets inside the ink cartridge 4014 admitted. A sealing element 4132 is on the ink cartridge 4014 Glued to a vent and a leak of ink inside the ink cartridge 4014 prevent it from use. To the ink cartridge 4014 to use, becomes the seal element 4132 deducted, whereupon the cartridge in the multifunction device 1 will be installed.

The detection part 4140 (irradiated part) is formed so as to protrude from an end face extending substantially in the vertical direction of the ink cartridge 4014 (Up-down direction in 53 (a) ) and below is the ink supply part 4120 educated. An ink supply port 4121 into the needle 49 is inserted is at the projecting tip of the ink supply member 4120 educated. The ink cartridge 4014 The third embodiment has no structure corresponding to the ink reservoir 100 and stores the ink directly inside the case.

On the right in 53 (a) is a cross-sectional view taken along the dashed line in the figure. As shown in this figure, in the ink supply part 4120 a seal 4122 which represents the insert in which the needle 49 is used, a valve 4123 that the opening of the seal 4122 fills and in the direction of the inside of the ink cartridge 4014 this seal 4122 is arranged, and a spring element 4124 which is the valve 4123 on the seal 4122 pretensions. As a result, the Ventilmechanism is formed, which is the Tintenzuführöffnung 4121 opens and closes. Furthermore, the partition wall 4125 , which is the inside of the ink cartridge 4014 and the ink supply part 4120 divided as a single unit with the ink cartridge 4014 self trained. As shown in 53 (a) forms this partition 4125 a space for receiving the valve mechanism.

As shown in 53 (b) becomes the ink cartridge 5014 in the fourth embodiment, instead of the ink supply part 4120 in the third embodiment, which uses the ink supply part 120 of the first embodiment and the similarly shaped ink supply member 5120 represents. The remaining structure is the same as in the ink cartridge of the third embodiment, and therefore a detailed explanation thereof will be omitted.

The detection part 4140 of the third and fourth embodiments, as in the first embodiment in its interior, the sensor arm 470 contain. If it is the sensor arm 470 it is in that at the multifunction device 1 attached condition of the ink cartridges 4014 and 5014 possible to accurately detect the remaining ink amount. Further, in the third and fourth embodiments, the housing protrusions became 214a and 224b formed protrusion (first projection part) and the housing protrusions 214b and 224b her formed projection (first projection part) omitted, but it is acceptable to provide these as well.

Next, the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS 54 and 55 described. 54 is an oblique view of the housing 200 the ink cartridge 14 in the fifth embodiment, and 55 Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the state in which the ink cartridge 14 of the fifth embodiment is mounted in the refill unit 13 , The housing 200 of the fifth embodiment is constructed so that its edge shape with respect to the housing protrusions 214a and 224a of the first embodiment is different. Therefore, the structure except the edge part of the housing protrusions 214a and 224a of the fifth embodiment, the same as that of the ink cartridge 14 of the first embodiment, and using the same reference numerals for the parts identical to the first embodiment, the explanation thereof is omitted.

The housing 200 of the fifth embodiment forms the second projecting parts 214a3 and 224a3 moving in the direction of the housing protrusions 214b and 224b (left in 54 ) on the housing protrusions 214a and 214b project out. By having these second projecting parts 214a3 and 224a3 are formed, form the housing protrusions 214a and 214b the shortened L (or V or U) shaped step 214a4 and 224a4 (Recess part) when viewed from the side view (relative to the first housing element 210 looking at the top from top to bottom in 54 , or relative to the second housing element 220 looking at the bottom from bottom to top in 54 ) (please refer 55 ).

If, as shown in 55 through the second projecting parts 214a3 and 224a3 trained ink cartridge 14 at the refill unit 13 with reversed top and bottom (in the wrong orientation) is attached, the front edge of the projection fits 55 on the side of the case 40 in the steps 214a4 and 224a4 one (the stage 224a4 is not shown in the figure). If the ink cartridge 14 It is therefore possible - with the top and bottom interchangeable - for example, because of the projection 55 properly in the steps 214a4 and 224a4 inserts - to exclude problems in which the lead 55 on the housing protrusions 214a and 224a over to the top of the housing 200 in 55 or to the bottom of the housing protrusions 214a and 224a in 55 moved and the ink cartridge 14 thus further to the back of the housing 40 (right in 55 ) is used. Therefore, it is possible to strike the ink cartridge against the needle 49 to exclude and thus destruction or deformation of the needle 49 and the residual ink detection sensor 57 to prevent.

The steps 214a4 and 224a4 of the fifth embodiment are L-shaped (or V- or U-shaped) when viewed from the side, but it is also acceptable to conform to the edge shape of the projection 55 train. In other words, any shape is acceptable to them as long as it is a shape that does not peel off when mounted in the wrong orientation and the edge of the projection projects into the steps 214a4 and 224a4 fits.

Next, the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS 56 - 58 described. 56 Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the state in which the ink cartridge 14 of the sixth embodiment in the refill unit 13 is used. 57 FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a summary of the electrical construction of the multi-function device. FIG 1 in the sixth embodiment shows. 58 is a flowchart similar to that of the CPU 971 shows performed operation for detecting the attachment of the ink cartridge. The sixth embodiment has in comparison with the multi-function device 1 of the first embodiment, an additional ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 on. Therefore, the structure of the sixth embodiment is the exception of the ink cartridge mounting detection sensor 960 the same as in the first embodiment, and therefore the explanation is omitted by using the same reference numerals for the same articles as in the first embodiment.

As shown in 56 is in the multi-function device 1 of the sixth embodiment, an ink cartridge mounting detecting sensor 960 available. If the ink cartridge 14 is mounted in the correct mounting position, presses the edge of the housing protrusions 214a and 224a against a protruding part of the ink cartridge attachment detecting sensor 960 , and by the pressure against this projecting part, the ink cartridge mounting detecting sensor sends 960 a signal to the control board 970 , The control board 970 is a control device for carrying out the main control of the multifunction device 1 ,

As shown in 57 has the control board 970 a CPU 971 which is the computing device, a ROM 972 , which is a memory that can not be overwritten and stores the control program and the preset data, a RAM 973 , which is a memory that can not be overwritten and is used as the memory, the EEPROM 974 , which is a nonvolatile memory that is overwritable and stores data even after the power is turned off, a PC interface 975 for carrying out the electrical connections between the external PC 980 and the control board 970 , an inkjet printer 976 Printing by outputting ink according to instructions by CPU 971 performs, a liquid crystal display part 35 performing any kind of display, a waste ink detection sensor 57 that is the residual ink in the ink cartridge 14 detected, and an ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 that detects if the ink cartridge 14 attached or not, and an interface circuit 978 which performs the input and output of each signal type. Although not shown in the figure, various counters and timers are provided, with the updating of counter values and timer values according to that in the CPU 971 carried out processing.

In the EEPROM 974 there is an ink cartridge attachment flag 974a , This ink cartridge attachment flag 974 will not only turn on when the ink cartridge 14 is properly attached, but is also a flag that is turned off when the ink cartridge 14 Will get removed. In addition, the ink cartridge attachment flag remains 974a once it has been turned on, in the on state until it is detected by the ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 is switched off.

The ink cartridge attachment detecting process as shown in FIG 58 is an interruption process that occurs at predetermined time intervals (eg, every 4 ms) after the initial start-up operation (not shown in the figure) after turning on the power supply to the multi-function device 1 is carried out. In the following explanation, the ink cartridge attachment detection sensor turns on 960 when pressure is applied to the protruding part of the ink cartridge mounting sensor, and turns off when no pressure is applied to the protruding part. Further, the waste ink detection sensor turns on 57 when the light receiver part 57b received light quantity falls below a certain level (when the beam path between the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b is blocked), and turns off when the light receiver part 57b received amount of light has exceeded a certain level (if that of the light-emitting part 57a output light from the light receiver part 57b Will be received).

In the execution of the ink cartridge attachment detection process, it is first checked whether the ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 is turned on or not (S101), and when the ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 is off (S101: No), is not an ink cartridge 14 at the multifunction device 1 attached, so that the value for the ink cartridge attachment flag 974a is set to 0 (S102) and the ink cartridge on the liquid crystal display part 35 indicates that the ink cartridge 14 is not appropriate (S103), and this process is terminated. If a new multifunction device 1 is used for the first time after delivery from the factory, the value of the ink cartridge attachment flag 974a set to 0.

If the ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 as a result of the review by the process of S101 is turned on (S101: Yes), it means that the ink cartridge 14 then this process checks to see if the value of the ink cartridge attachment flag 974a 1 or not (S104). If the ink cartridge 14 was attached from the disassembled state, the value of the ink cartridge attachment flag 974a 0 (S104: No), whereupon this process then checks if the waste ink detection sensor 57 is turned on or not, according to the timing in which the ink cartridge 14 was attached (S105). If the waste ink detection sensor 57 is off (S105: No), it means that an ink cartridge 14 was mounted in a state in which no Abschirmungsarmteil arm 473c between the light-emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b or, in other words, that a low ink cartridge was installed. Therefore, the "ink empty" indication on the liquid crystal display part becomes 35 is displayed (S112), and this process is ended.

On the other hand, in the process of S105, if the residual ink detection sensor 57 is turned on (S105: Yes), this process checks whether the waste ink detection sensor 57 longer than the predetermined time (eg, more than 10 seconds) was turned on or not (S106). If the waste ink detection sensor 57 longer than the predetermined time was turned on (S105: Yes), it means that the remaining ink detection sensor 57 in the timetable, in which the ink cartridge 14 has been mounted for more than the predetermined time was turned on, so it is assumed that impurities on the surface of the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b of the waste ink detection sensor 57 where these contaminants block the beam path between these surfaces, or it is believed that the sensor 960 is defective. Therefore, if the process of S106 is Yes, a disturbance of the residual ink detection sensor on the liquid crystal display part becomes 35 (S107), and this process is ended.

If the waste ink detection sensor 57 during the process of S106 was turned on no longer than the predetermined time (S106: No), this process next determines whether the ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 has been on for more than the predetermined time (eg 10 s) or not (S108). As described above, the processing after "S104 is No" is a process to be performed if the ink cartridge 14 was mounted from the disassembled state, and therefore when the ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 has been turned on for longer than the predetermined time, may cause damage to the ink cartridge mounting detection sensor 960 available. When the ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 is turned on for longer than the predetermined time (S108: Yes), therefore, a failure of the ink cartridge mounting detection sensor on the liquid crystal display part 35 is displayed (S109), and this process is ended.

In the process of S108, if the ink cartridge mounting detecting sensor 960 no longer than the set time was turned on (S108: No), it means that the ink cartridge 14 properly attached, which is why the value of the ink cartridge attachment flag 974a is set to 1 (S110), and this process is ended. In other words, the ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 and the waste ink detection sensor 57 switch approximately at the same timing, and when the value of the ink cartridge attachment flag 974a due to detecting the attachment of the ink cartridge 14 is set to 1, it is offset to the state where printing with the multifunction device 1 is possible.

When the ink cartridge attachment flag 974a is set to 1, in the subsequent processing, the process of S104 goes to Yes, and the process of detecting the remaining ink in the ink cartridge 14 is carried out. In other words, in the process of S111, it is checked if the waste ink detection sensor 57 has been turned on or not, and if the waste ink detection sensor 57 is on (S111: Yes), there is ink in the ink cartridge 14 and this process is terminated, and if the residual ink detection sensor 57 is turned off (S111: No), an "ink empty" indication is displayed on the liquid crystal display 35 is displayed (S112), and this process is ended.

If the value of the ink cartridge attachment flag 974a 1, in other words, if no error has been detected, the multifunction device leaves 1 the execution of the printing operation (not shown in the figure), which is why it is possible to avoid the execution of the printing process, if it is unclear whether the ink cartridge 14 attached or not.

If any of the errors have been indicated, and if a failure abort operation such as operation of the malfunction stop button is performed, the ink cartridge attachment flag becomes 974a initialized to 0.

As described above, in the sixth embodiment, not only is it possible to dispose the unapplied state of the ink cartridge 14 and to detect and detect the "ink empty" state, but it is also possible to detect any disturbances in each sensor. In addition, the value of the ink cartridge attachment flag becomes 974a when replacing the ink cartridge 14 is set to 0 because of the ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 is turned off, so that always a precise detection is possible, whether the ink cartridge 14 is attached or if the ink is empty. Even when removing the ink cartridge 14 Ink at the light end part 57a or at the light receiver part 57b of the waste ink detection sensor 57 liable, it is possible any disturbances of the residual ink detection sensor 57 when attaching the ink cartridge 14 to capture precisely. Even when removing the ink cartridge 14 the ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 is already faulty, an "ink empty" indicator will appear even though the ink cartridge is out 14 not appropriate. Thus, it is possible for the user to recognize that some trouble event has occurred. If a troubleshooting operation is performed, the next time you install an ink cartridge 14 the value of the ink cartridge attachment flag 974a is set to 0, whereby it is possible to disturb the ink cartridge mounting detecting sensor 960 so that it is communicated to the user.

As in the first embodiment, the residual ink detection sensor 57 detect the presence or absence of any residual ink if no ink cartridge attachment detection sensor 960 is available. The waste ink detection sensor 57 can also capture that ink cartridge 14 is attached (or to be more specific, that an ink cartridge is attached with a sufficient amount of residual ink) when the waste ink detection sensor 57 switched from off to on. It is acceptable to allow the printing to be performed when the waste ink detection sensor 57 Captures that ink cartridge 14 is appropriate.

Next, with reference to 59 the seventh and eighth embodiments described. 59 is an oblique view of the appearance of the ink cartridges 6014 and 7014 of the seventh and eighth embodiments, 59 (a) is an oblique view of the external appearance of the ink cartridge 6014 of the seventh embodiment, and 59 (b) is an oblique view of the external appearance of the ink cartridge 7014 of the eighth embodiment. The ink cartridges 6014 and 7014 of the seventh and eighth embodiments are constructed such that the shapes of the side surfaces on which the ink supply members 4120 and 5120 are formed from the ink cartridges 4014 and 5014 of the third and fourth embodiments are different. Therefore, the structure except for the side surfaces where the ink supply parts 4120 and 5120 of the seventh and eighth embodiments are the same as that of the ink cartridges 4014 and 5014 of the third and fourth embodiments, therefore, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as in the third and fourth embodiments, and a description thereof will be dispensed with.

As shown in 59 (a) is a deepening part 6100 above the ink supply part 4120 (above the ink supply part 4120 in the attached state of the ink cartridge 4120 (the state in 59 (a) ) educated. A detection part 6140 is in the center position of this depression part 6100 educated. Therefore, on both sides of the detection part 6140 formed a space in which the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b of the waste ink detection sensor 57 can be used.

As shown in 59 (b) is a deepening part 7100 above the ink supply part 5120 (above the attached state of the ink cartridge 5120 (the state in 59 (b) ) educated. A detection part 7140 is in the center position of this depression part 7100 educated. Therefore, on both sides of the detection part 7140 a space formed in which the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b of the waste ink detection sensor 57 can be used.

Furthermore, the detection parts 6140 and 7140 the ink cartridges 6014 and 7014 of the seventh and eighth embodiments in the recess portions formed on the side surfaces 6100 and 7100 so that it is possible to prevent any adhesion of ink coming from the ink supply parts 4120 and 5120 has expired, at the detection parts 6140 and 7140 to reduce.

It is acceptable to the surface of the Vertie fung parts 6100 and 7100 on the side of the ink supply parts 4120 and 5120 as an oblique surface on the ink supply parts 4120 and 5120 is inclined. If there is ink on the detection parts when using this construction 6140 and 7140 should stick, the ink does not accumulate in the depression parts 6100 and 7100 , whereby it becomes possible to prevent any adhesion of ink to the detection parts 6140 and 7140 to reduce.

The detection parts 6140 and 7140 The seventh and eighth embodiments may include sensor arms in their interior, as in the first embodiment. Using a sensor arm 470 It is possible to accurately detect the remaining ink amount when the ink cartridges 4014 and 5014 in the multifunction device 1 are attached.

Next, referring to 60 the ninth embodiment explained. 60 is a schematic representation of the ink cartridge 8014 and the refill unit 13 of the ninth embodiment. The same parts as in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and an explanation thereof will be omitted. Although further the structure of the pull-out 65 the flap main body 60 in the ninth embodiment is different from that of the first embodiment, an explanation thereof will be omitted.

As shown in 60 points the ink cartridge 8014 of the ninth embodiment, a pushing part 8200a which is configured to hold the pressure element 61 the flap main body 60 contacted and from the side surface 1 the ink cartridge 8014 protrudes outwards. In other words, the push part was 200a of the first embodiment part of a certain area of the side surface 1 of the housing 200 but the printing part 8200a of the ninth embodiment has a structure in which a specific part is present, which is the pressing member 61 contacted. In the ninth embodiment, the structure of the pushing part 8200a so that it protrudes from the side surface, however, it is acceptable to form it with the opposite recessed shape. In this case, the pressing member is then formed to be separated from the valve main body 61 protrudes.

Next, referring to the 61 - 63 the tenth embodiment described. 61 is an oblique view of the external appearance of the ink cartridge 9014 of the tenth embodiment. 62 is an exploded perspective view of the ink cartridge 9014 of the tenth embodiment. 63 Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining the procedure for replacing the ink supply member. The ink cartridge 14 of the first embodiment had a structure in which the ink reservoir member 100 was not interchangeable because it was in the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 was welded, however, this is ink cartridge 9014 of the tenth embodiment is constructed so that the ink reservoir member 100 is interchangeable.

Furthermore, the ink cartridge has 9014 of the tenth embodiment, by and large, the same structure as the ink cartridge 14 of the first embodiment, which is why only the ink cartridge 14 of the first embodiment will be described, using the same reference numerals for the same parts as in the first embodiment, the explanation is omitted.

As shown in 61 points the ink cartridge 9014 of the tenth embodiment, a seal 9100 on that on the outside surface of the case 200 is appropriate. This seal 9100 is over the main surface 220a and the vertical wall part 220c of the second housing element 220 and the vertical wall part 210c and the main surface 210a of the first housing element 210 appropriate. In other words, that's the seal 9100 at the to the cap 300 opposite side surface (opposite to the edge surface, at which the ink supply part 120 , the ambient air intake part 130 and the detection part 140 are located). On the seal 9100 is not just the model of the ink cartridge 9014 indicated, but also the color of ink corresponding color printed, so that it is possible the color of the ink cartridge 9014 visually recognize stored ink. Therefore, it is the user thanks to the attachment of this seal 9100 possible to visually recognize the ink color, thereby capturing the ink cartridge 9104 in the wrong receiving chamber 50 in the case 40 can be prevented.

As shown in 62 are in the vertical wall part 210b of the first housing element 210 engaging parts 9200a and 9200b formed on the second housing element 220 towards (in the Z direction, or in the upward direction in 62 ) understand. On the other hand, in the vertical wall part 220b of the second housing element 220 engagement openings 9201A and 9201b formed with the edges of the engaging parts 9200a respectively. 9200b intervention.

In the manufacture of the ink cartridge 9014 Therefore, first the ink reservoir element 100 in the first housing element 210 placed, and the engaging parts 9200a and 9200b of the first housing element 210 be in the intervention holes 9201A and 9201b of the second housing element 920 inserted, and the first housing element 210 and the second housing element 220 are joined together. Then the seal becomes 9100 along the main surface 210a and the vertical wall part 210c of the first housing element 210 and the main surface 220a and the vertical wall part 210c of the second housing element 220 glued. Then, by attaching the protective cap 300 the ink cartridge 9014 produced.

The ink cartridge 9014 of the tenth embodiment has the joining of the first housing element 210 and the second housing member 220 , the gluing of the seal 9100 on the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 , and the joining of the engaging parts 9200a and 9200b with the intervention openings 9201A and 9201b run through. By removing the connection of the engaging parts 9200a and 9200b with the intervention openings 9201A and 9201b It is therefore possible, the connection between the first housing element 210 and the second housing member 220 repealed. It is possible to cancel the connection between the engaging parts 9200a and 9200b and the intervention openings 9201A and 9201b by pressure on the edge of the engaging parts 9200a and 9200b over the intervention openings 9201A and 9201b from the outside of the vertical wall part 210b fro, on which the housing recesses 221 to 223 are designed to perform easily.

As shown in 63 are an edge surface of the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 through the seal 9100 connected, so that it is also possible, opening and closing operations using the edge of the vertical wall parts 210c and 220c as an axis (an opening and closing operation in the arrow direction in FIG 63 , or in the X direction). In other words, the seal part 9100 is a connecting element for connecting the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 and serves as a hinge material, with which the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 can be opened. Therefore, replacement of the ink reservoir member becomes 100 by removing the connection between the engagement parts 9200a and 9200b and the intervention openings 9201A and 9201b performed, and when the second housing element 220 based on the first housing element 210 is open, the new ink supply element 100 used, whereupon the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 get connected. Although in the tenth embodiment, the ink reservoir member 100 is replaced with a new one, it is also acceptable to use a product in which new ink in the ink reservoir element 100 is injected.

As described above, the replacement of the ink reservoir member 100 on the ink cartridge 9014 of the tenth embodiment can be easily made. Further, in this embodiment, since the remaining ink is detected by the remaining ink detection sensor (combined with detection of the mounting of the ink cartridge) 57 performed on both sides of the detection part 140 of the ink reservoir element 100 is arranged, the determination is made that there is no residual ink (or that no ink cartridge is attached) when an ink cartridge 9104 without an ink reservoir contained therein 100 is attached. So there from the multifunction device 1 No printing is performed in a state in which an ink cartridge 9014 without ink supply element 100 is attached, possible problems with printing can be reduced.

Next, the eleventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIG 64 described. 64 is a schematic representation of the ink reservoir element 9300 of the eleventh embodiment. The ink reservoir element 9300 of the eleventh embodiment is fixed in the first and second housing members, however, a detailed explanation and description of the first and second housing members will be omitted.

As shown in 64 there is the structure of the ink reservoir element 9300 of the eleventh embodiment of a hard part 9301 which is made by injection molding using a plastic material, and a bag member 9302 which has flexibility and forms a reservoir for storing the ink therein, and that with the hard part 9301 connected is. The hard part 9301 has a detection part (irradiation part) 9303 on that between the light sending part 57a and the light receiver part 57b of the waste ink detection sensor 57 is to be arranged, and an ink supply member, as in the first embodiment, the ink supply mechanism 500 and the supply cap.

Therefore, the ink storage element becomes 9300 of the eleventh embodiment using the hard part 9301 and the bag part 9302 Therefore, a simplified structure can be obtained as compared with a housing in which the entirety of the ink reservoir member is formed by molding using a plastic material. Therefore, it is possible to increase productivity in the production of the ink reservoir element 9300 to improve, whereby a reduction in production costs can be achieved.

The ink reservoir element 9300 of the eleventh embodiment is made using the bag part 9302 trained, the the storeroom for storing the ink, and when the ink in the bag part 9302 decreases, shrinks the bag part 9302 according to this decrease, and when the ink is exhausted, the storeroom is also exhausted by and large. It is therefore not possible to have a sensor arm (rotating member) for detecting the residual ink amount in the bag part 9302 to arrange.

The hard part 9301 in the ink reservoir 9300 however, it is designed to have light barrier properties and because it is located between the light emitting part 57a and the light receiver part 57b of the waste ink detection sensor 57 is disposed, it constantly blocks the output light from the light emitting part 57a is issued. Although it is not possible, the amount of residual ink in the bag part 9302 Therefore, it can still be detected whether an ink reservoir element 9300 is contained in the first and the second housing element, whereby it is possible to carry out any printing operations by the multifunction device 1 while preventing the ink supply element 9300 is not included in the first and the second housing element.

in the The foregoing has been based on the present invention of the embodiments described, but the present Invention is not limited to these embodiments, and it's easy to see that it would be possible within a scope that is not covered by the claims of differs from the present invention, various improvements or Make modifications.

It will now be with reference to the 65 to 67 the modified examples of the combinations of the housing elements will be described. The 65 to 67 are schematic diagrams for explaining the modified examples of the combinations of the housing elements. As described above, in the present embodiment, the three types of cases have been adopted 200 . 1200 (or 1200α) and 2200 with different sizes for the outer molds using the two types of the first housing element 210 and the first housing elements 1210 and 2210 with different thicknesses as well as the two types of the second housing element 220 and the second housing member 2220 formed with different thicknesses. Instead, the combination of the case members in this modified example may be formed of four case types having different sizes of the outer shape of four case members (the inner capacity being different). First, an explanation will be made with reference to FIG 65 given. As shown in 65 (a) the housing C1 is made of a housing element 120 and a housing member r21. The thickness of the housing element 120 is t20, and the thickness of the case member r21 is t21, which is thicker than the thickness t20. As shown in 65 (b) is the housing C2 from the housing element 121 and the housing member r22. The thickness of the housing element 121 is t21, and the thickness of the case member r22 is t22, which is thicker than the thickness t21. In addition, the difference between the thickness t22 of the case member r22 and the thickness t21 of the case member r21 is the difference between the thickness t21 of the case member 121 and the thickness t20 of the case member 120 different.

By changing the combination of the housing elements 121 and r22, which form the case C2, and the case members 120 and r21 forming the case C1 become the case C3 as shown in FIG 65 (c) and the housing C4 as shown in FIG 65 (d) educated. More specifically, the housing C3 is made of the housing member 120 and the housing member r22, and the housing C4 becomes the housing member 121 and the housing member r21.

Thus, using the four housing elements 120 and r21, which form the case C1, and the case members 121 and r22 constituting the case C2, the small-size case C1, the large-size case C2, and the two types of medium-size cases C3 and C4. Further, the size (thickness) of the outer shape of the housings C1 to C4 is different, respectively, with the relationship C1 <C4 <C3 <C2. Therefore, it is possible to have four cases having different outer shapes according to the amount of ink to be stored using the four case members 120 , r21, 121 and train r22.

Thus, in the manufacture of four housing types having different outer shapes using the four housing members, it is necessary to add another second condition to the first condition mentioned above. This second condition is that the difference (t22-t21) between the thickness t22 of one side of the case member (case member r22) constituting the largest first ink cartridge (case C2) and the thickness t21 of one side of the case member (case member r21), which is the smallest third ink cartridge (C1), of the difference (t21 - t20) between the thickness t21 of the other side of the housing member (housing member 121 ), which constitutes the largest first ink cartridge, and the thickness t20 of the other side of the case member (case member 120 ), which makes the smallest third ink cartridge, must be different. For example, if the first condition is met, but not the second condition For example, the thicknesses would be t20 = 10mm, t21 = 25mm, and t22 = 40mm (t22 - t21 = 15mm, t21 - t20 = 15mm), and the thicknesses of the housings would be C1 = 35mm, C2 respectively = 65 mm, C3 = 50 mm, and C4 = 50 mm, which means that only housings of three sizes could be made, and if both the first and second conditions are met, then the thicknesses would be t20 = 10 mm, t21 = 20 mm, and t22 = 40 mm (t22 - t21 = 20 mm, t21 - t20 = 10 mm), and the thicknesses of the housings would be respectively C1 = 30 mm, C2 = 60 mm, C3 = 50 mm, and C4 = 40 mm, which would make it possible to produce housings with four sizes.

Next, an explanation will be made with reference to FIG 66 given. As shown in 66 is the housing C5 from the housing element 120 and the housing member r20. The thicknesses of the housing elements 120 and r20 is 20. The housing C2 as shown in FIG 66 (b) is the same as the case C2 in 65 (b) , which is why an explanation thereof is omitted.

By changing the combination of the housing elements 120 and r20, which form the housing C5, and the housing members 121 and r22, which form the housing C2, become the housing C3 as shown in FIG 66 (c) and the housing C6 as shown in FIG 66 (d) educated. More specifically, the housing C3 is made of the housing member 120 and the housing member r22, and the housing C6 is made of the housing member 121 and the housing member r20. In addition, the difference between the thickness t20 of the case member r20 and the thickness t22 of the case member r22 is the difference between the thickness t21 of the case member 121 and the thickness t20 of the case member 120 different, so that both the first and the second of the conditions described above are satisfied.

Thus, using the four housing elements 120 and r20, which form the housing C5, and the housing members 121 and r22 constituting the case C2, the small-size case C5, the large-size case C2, and the two types of medium-size cases C3 and C6. Further, the size (thickness) of the outer shape of the casings C2, C3, C5 and C6 is different, respectively, with the relationship C5 <C6 <C3 <C2. Therefore, it is possible to have four cases having different outer shapes corresponding to the amount of ink to be stored using the four case members 120 , r21, 121 and form r22.

Next, an explanation will be made with reference to FIG 67 given. Since the housing C1 as shown in FIG 67 (a) the same as the housing C1 as shown in FIG 65 is, is omitted in this case an explanation thereof. As shown in 67 (b) is the housing C7 from the housing element 122 and the housing member r22. The thicknesses of the housing elements 122 and r22 are t22.

By changing the combination of the housing elements 120 and r21, which form the case C1, and the case members 122 and r22, which form the housing C7, become the housing C3 as shown in FIG 67 (c) and the housing C8 as shown in FIG 67 (d) educated. More specifically, the housing C3 is made of the housing member 120 and the housing member r22, and the housing C8 becomes the housing member 122 and the housing member r21. In addition, the difference between the thickness t22 of the housing member r22 and the thickness t21 of the housing member is the difference between the thickness t22 of the housing member 122 and the thickness t20 of the case member 120 different, so that both the first and the second of the conditions described above are satisfied.

Therefore, using the four housing elements 120 and r21, which form the case C1, and the case members 122 and r22 constituting the case C7, the small-size case C1, the large-size case C7, and the two types of medium-size cases C3 and C8. Further, the size (thickness) of the outer shape of the housings C1, C3, C7, and C8 is different, respectively, with the relationship C1 <C3 <C8 <C7. Therefore, it is possible to have four cases having different outer shapes corresponding to the amount of ink to be stored using the four case members 120 , r21, 122 and form r22.

According to the From the above description, it is possible to have four housings with different outer sizes (different internal capacity) of four housing elements when forming the case members to form each case the thicknesses of the housing elements arranged on one side from the thicknesses of the housing elements arranged on the other side are different.

Next, another modified example of the present embodiment will be explained. In the above embodiment, the supply valve 620 and the ambient air valve 720 using the elasticity of the first and second feed springs 630 and 650 and the first and second ambient air springs 730 and 750 on the feed seal 610 and the ambient air seal 710 biased so as to block the ink flow path K and the ambient air inlet path L. However, it is Also, it is acceptable to use the resilience of the helical spring member formed using either a metallic material or a plastic material to bias the delivery valve and the ambient air valve in the direction of the delivery seal and the ambient air seal, thereby blocking the ink flow path and the ambient air inlet path. Further, as long as the coil spring is formed so that at least a part of it is conical, it is also possible to reduce the dimensions of the ink supply mechanism and the ambient air intake mechanism. Without using the feed gate 640 and the ambient air damper 740 it is also acceptable to use the first feed spring 630 and the second feed spring 650 as well as the first ambient air spring 730 and the second ambient air spring 750 to be constructed so as to be immediately adjacent to each other, and to further simplify the structure so that the supply valve and the ambient air intake valve are at the ground level. By using such a structure, it is possible to simplify the ink supply mechanism and the ambient air intake mechanism, whereby a reduction in manufacturing cost can be achieved. In addition, it is also acceptable to have a structure in which the first supply spring (ambient air spring) and the second supply spring (ambient air spring) are connected as a unit. Furthermore, it is without using a valve hook 626 and 726 in the supply valve 620 and the ambient air valve 720 acceptable, the feed gate (ambient air slide) 640 ( 740 ) and the first and second feed springs (ambient air spring) 630 and 650 ( 730 and 750 ) as a unit, and to have a structure in which the connected supply spool (ambient air spool) and the first and second supply springs (ambient air spring) are freely movable.

Even if the check valve 670 from the screen part 671 and the shaft part 672 was constructed, it is also acceptable, only from the screen part 671 build. The check valve 670 is used to prevent backflow of the ink, and therefore, it is acceptable to build it so that it connects the first cover through hole 683 and the second cover through hole 684 the cover 680 can block. Further, it is acceptable to use the cover 680 without the second cover passage opening 684 build.

Although in the above embodiment, the space between the seal protrusion part 614 and the sealing contact part 613 the feed seal 610 Furthermore, it is also acceptable to form a groove around the circumference of the seal contact part of the feed seal. Since any displacement of the seal protrusion part is absorbed by this groove, it is possible to shift in the insertion direction of the seal contact part upon insertion of the needle 49 to reduce. In addition, by increasing the inner diameter of the seal contact part with respect to the inner diameter of the seal protrusion part, it is possible to reduce any transmission of the displacement of the seal protrusion part to the seal contact part.

Although in the above embodiment, a film 160 on both sides of the first opening 112a and the second opening 112b of the frame part 110 It is also acceptable to close an opening using the side wall and the foil 160 just to weld on the other opening. In this case, the side of the second opening 112b closed by the side wall, and a construction in which the film 160 on the first opening 112a It is possible to make a film 160 on the sidewall of the ambient air connection channel 433 forming, whereby the formation of a meniscus at the ambient air connection channel 433 can be reduced. In the case where the second opening 112b is closed with the side wall, this side wall also becomes a support substrate, and since this provides the strength of the frame part, a construction in which the connection forming part (partition plate) connected in the ink supply chamber is not used is acceptable. In this case, it is acceptable if an internal welding member exists only from a surface side of the supporting substrate.

Further, in the above embodiment, the film was 160 on the frame 110 is welded, made of a nylon layer on the side of the frame part 110 However, it is also acceptable to apply a water-resistant coating to this nylon layer. Using this type of construction, the formation of a meniscus can occur at the ambient air connection channel 433 be prevented.

In the above embodiment, the ambient air communication channel forming part was 430 further configured to be from the first ambient air communication chamber 431 to the second ambient air communication chamber 432 down but because of a surface of the ambient air communication channel 433 from a foil 160 it is possible to form a meniscus in the ambient air communication channel 433 to prevent. Therefore, a construction is acceptable in which the ambient air communication channel forming part 430 not necessarily off is inclined, and it is a construction acceptable, in which he in the attached state of the ink cartridge 14 is horizontal.

Although in the above embodiment, all the operations for welding the film were performed using ultrasonic welding, it is further acceptable to make all attachments using an adhesive, if it is possible to perform the attachment using an adhesive, and it is also acceptable to use another welding method for welding. For example, the welding of the housing 200 be replaced by an attachment using an adhesive, since it is only important to make sure that the first and the second housing element 210 and 220 do not separate from each other.

in the The following are modified examples of the ink cartridge according to the present invention, the ink reservoir element, the packaging of the ink cartridge, the method of manufacture the ink cartridge packaging unit, and the method of manufacture the ink cartridge shown.

The Ink cartridge A1 includes an ink cartridge that is an ink reservoir with an interior for storing the ink and an ink reservoir containing housing, and at a Ink jet recording device is attached to a recording by discharging the ink; contains here the ink reservoir element is a frame element having an opening, which is connected to the interior, and a foil which the opening covering and attached to the perimeter of the opening, and that Frame member has a rib, which the film from the sides supported by the interior ago.

The Ink cartridge A2 comprises an ink cartridge A1, wherein the film attached to the ribs.

The Ink cartridge A3 includes an ink cartridge A2, wherein the attachment the film and the rib by connecting the two together by welding at least one of the foil and the rib is performed.

The Ink cartridge A4 includes an ink cartridge A3, which at the Foil fastened fastening part of the rib on the same imaginary flat surface is positioned as the attached to the film Mounting part on the circumference of the opening.

The Ink cartridge A5 includes each of the ink cartridges A1 to A4, wherein if the part opposite to the opening and Part of the housing is on the side of the opening is shifted, this shift is limited by the ribs.

The Ink cartridge A6 includes each of the ink cartridges A1 to A5, wherein when attached to the ink jet recording apparatus Ribs are designed so that they not only down are inclined, but the edge of the downward slope Furthermore, a free edge, these ribs due to the Gravity flowing ink to the bottom of the interior can guide you.

The Ink cartridge A7 includes each of the ink cartridges A1 to A6, wherein Several such ribs are present in the opening area the frame element are arranged distributed.

The Ink cartridge A8 includes each of the ink cartridges A1 to A7, wherein the frame member surrounding the outer opening Frame part contains, as well as a carrier substrate, extending horizontally along the passage area of the opening extends from the outer frame part, and the ribs of are worn on the carrier substrate.

The Ink reservoir A9 may be in each of the ink cartridges A1 to A8 be used.

The Ink cartridge B1 includes an ink reservoir member having a Interior for storing the ink and an ink reservoir surrounding housing, wherein in an ink cartridge, the is mounted in an ink jet recording apparatus to to perform recording by discharging the ink the ink reservoir member is a frame member having a first opening and a second opening connected to the interior, and a foil, each having the first opening and the second opening covering and at the periphery of the first opening and the second opening is attached, contains; and the frame member a partition plate for separating the interior into a first chamber on the side the first opening and a second chamber on the side the second opening, a first rib for supporting the film from the side of the first opening coming from the partition plate is formed from, and a second rib for supporting the film from the side of the second opening coming from the partition plate is formed forth.

The Ink cartridge B2 comprises an ink cartridge B1, in which the film is attached to each of the first rib and the second rib.

The Ink cartridge B3 includes an ink cartridge B2, in which the attachment the film on the first rib and the second rib by mutual bonding the two by means of welding at least one side in the Slide and the first rib and the second rib performed becomes.

The Ink cartridge B4 includes ink cartridges B2 and B3, wherein the on the film fastened fastening part of the first rib on the same imaginary flat surface is positioned like the one on the Foil-mounted fastening part on the circumference of the first opening, and the attached to the film fastening part of the second rib positioned on the same imaginary flat surface Like the fixing part attached to the film, it is at the periphery of the second opening.

The Ink cartridge B5 includes an ink cartridge B4, wherein the first imagined level surface and the second imaginary level Surface are horizontal.

The Ink cartridge B6 includes each of the ink cartridges B1 to B5, wherein if the part leading to the first opening and the second opening is opposite and part of the housing is on the side of the first opening and the second opening is shifted, the shift in each case by the first rib and the second rib is bounded.

The Ink cartridge B7 includes each of the ink cartridges B1 to B6, wherein when attached to the ink jet recording apparatus first rib and the second rib are designed so that they do not are only inclined downwards, but the edge of the downwards directed slope further is a free edge, wherein these ribs the ink flowing due to gravity lead to the bottom of the first chamber and the second chamber can.

The Ink cartridge B8 includes each of the ink cartridges B1 to B7, wherein Several such first ribs and second ribs are present, the distributed in the opening region of the frame element are.

The Ink cartridge B9 includes each of the ink cartridges B1 to B8, wherein the partition plate has a connection channel connecting the first chamber and the second chamber connects.

The Ink cartridge B10 includes an ink cartridge B9, wherein a rotary member is present, which rotates according to the decrease of the ink and is axially supported in the inner space, and wherein the rotating element in The connection channel is arranged.

The Ink cartridge B11 includes an ink cartridge B10, in which the rotary member having a circular shaft portion, and the partition plate not only has a clamping part, the shaft portion of the rotary member but the clamping part in cross section with a C-shape is formed, wherein the connecting channel opposite Side is open, and it by inserting the shaft portion of the rotary member in the chucking part of the partition plate is possible, the rotating element store so that it can rotate in the separator plate.

The Ink cartridge B12 includes each of the ink cartridges B1 to B11, wherein the frame element has a load-bearing wall part coming out of the separating plate is formed, and the supporting wall part a lower height as the ribs possesses.

The Ink cartridge B13 includes an ink cartridge B12, the supporting one Wall part is formed with a smaller thickness than the ribs.

The Ink cartridge B13 includes ink cartridges B12 and B13, wherein the carrying wall part from the partition plate in the edge part of the partition plate is formed, which is located adjacent to the connecting channel.

The Ink cartridge B15 includes ink cartridges B12 to B14, wherein, when Several ribs are present, these several ribs through the bearing Wall part are connected.

The Ink cartridge B16 includes each of the ink cartridges B11 to B15, wherein the frame member has an outer frame part, the surrounding the first opening and the second opening, and the partition plate is formed to be separate from the outer one Frame part in the space between the surfaces of the first opening and the second opening extends.

The Ink reservoir B17 may be in each of the ink cartridges B1 to B16 can be used.

ink cartridge C1, wherein in an ink cartridge having an ink reservoir element with an interior space for storing the ink and the one at Ink jet recording device is mounted, which is a recording by discharging the ink, the ink reservoir an injection member having an ink injection path into which the cylinder member can be used, and a connection part, the ink injection path contains the injection part with the interior, contains, wherein the connecting part has a first hole adjacent to the ink injection path the injection part connects, a second hole that is connects to the interior, and a connection path, which connects the first hole and the second hole and the ink injection path connects to the interior, so that when the ink reservoir element in the state of injection of ink that is at it about the state of performing the ink injection operation for injecting ink into the interior via the ink injection path of the injection part, the second hole higher than that first hole is positioned.

The Ink cartridge C2 comprises an ink cartridge C1 in which the ink reservoir member a frame member having an opening and one at the periphery of the opening contains attached film, and by closing the opening of the frame element of the interior between the Frame member and the film is formed, wherein the connecting part having a formed in the interior wall part, and through Attach the film to the wall part of the connection path between the wall part and the film is formed.

The Ink cartridge C3 comprises an ink cartridge C2, wherein the wall part formed from the outer surface of the injection part ago is.

The Ink cartridge C3 includes ink cartridges C2 and C3, with the on the film fastened fastening part of the wall part on the same imaginary flat surface is positioned like the fixing part on the circumference of the opening, which is attached to the film.

The Ink cartridge C5 includes each of the ink cartridges C1 to C4, wherein the second hole of the connecting part on the side of the opening the ink injection path is positioned, which is the Side of the leading edge in the direction of insertion of the cylinder part, and further the first hole of the connecting part on the underside the ink injection path is positioned, which is the Side of the trailing edge in the direction of insertion of the cylinder part is.

The Ink cartridge C6 includes each of the ink cartridges C2 to C5, wherein the connection path of the connection part along a straight Line extends.

The Ink cartridge C7 includes each of the ink cartridges C1 to C6, wherein in the state of injection of ink, the connecting part at highest part of the interior is located.

The Ink cartridge C8 includes each of the ink cartridges C1 to C7, wherein the ink reservoir element is constructed with a hexagonal planar shape, and the injection part is thus in the ink reservoir element, that he the insertion of the cylinder part of that side surface Here are some of the largest surfaces on a pair of surfaces Area of the hexagon is located opposite.

The Ink cartridge C9 includes each of the ink cartridges C9 to C10, wherein the ink injection operation, an operation for injecting ink in the interior via the ink injection path and further to Reduce the pressure in the interior by evacuating the interior via is the ink injection path.

The Ink cartridge C10 includes an ink cartridge C9, wherein the ink injection operation an operation for injecting ink into the interior via the ink injection path and reducing the pressure in the interior by evacuating the interior via the ink injection path is.

The Ink cartridge D1 comprises an ink cartridge with an ink reservoir element, having an interior for storing ink, and a Ambient air inlet part for introducing the ambient air in the Interior of the ink reservoir element, wherein the ink reservoir element is constructed so that it has a first surface and a second surface facing each other are, as well as a side surface, which is the first surface and the second surface connects; wherein the ambient air inlet part located on the side surface of the ink reservoir element and attached to an ink jet recording apparatus, which performs recording by discharging the ink; wherein the ink reservoir member is an ambient air communication path comprising the ambient air from the ambient air inlet part leads into the interior; wherein the ambient air communication path a first communication chamber that adjoins the ambient air inlet part connects, a second communication chamber, which is connects to the interior, and a connection path, the second communication chamber with the first communication chamber connects, has; wherein the first communication chamber and the second communication chamber are formed as a space that the bottom surface on the side of the first surface is positioned, and the top on the side of the second surface is positioned; wherein the first hole, which is the first communication chamber and connecting the ambient air inlet part, located in one position, that from the bottom surface of the first communication chamber is separate; and further wherein the second hole forming the connection path and the second communication chamber connects, in one position located from the top of the second communication chamber is separate.

The Ink cartridge D2 comprises an ink cartridge D1, wherein the first Hole is positioned over the second hole when the first one Surface is used as cargo bed, and further positioned the second hole above the first hole is when the second surface as a cargo area is used.

The Ink cartridge D3 includes ink cartridges D1 and D2, wherein the first hole in one to the top of the first communication chamber located adjacent position and additionally a hole in the side wall surface of the first communication chamber open is.

The Ink cartridge D4 includes ink cartridges D1 to D3, wherein the second hole in an adjacent to the top of the second communication chamber Position is located and in addition a hole in the side wall surface the second communication chamber is open.

The Ink cartridge D5 includes each of the ink cartridges D1 to D4, wherein the second communication chamber with the third and fourth holes has at least two holes which the second communication chamber and connect the interior.

The Ink cartridge D6 includes an ink cartridge D5, in addition to the presence of a partition plate for dividing the first chamber and the second chamber into the interior the top of the second Communication chamber is designed so that it overlaps with the partition plate, the third hole in the side wall surface of the communication chamber opens, and the fourth hole in the top of the communication chamber empties.

The Ink cartridge D7 includes an ink cartridge D6, wherein the fourth Hole is positioned in the angular part of the top and on the angle part is open, the farthest from the second hole positioned is.

The Ink cartridge D8 includes an ink cartridge D6, wherein in the state the attachment in the ink jet recording apparatus the fourth hole at the top position in the second communication chamber is positioned.

The Ink cartridge D9 includes each of the ink cartridges D5 to D8, wherein the open area of the second hole has a smaller area as the open area of the third hole and the fourth Lochs is.

The Ink cartridge D10 includes each of the ink cartridges D5 to D9, wherein the path cross-sectional area of the connection path is a smaller one Area as the open area of the third hole and the fourth hole.

The Ink cartridge D11 includes each of the ink cartridges D1 to D10, wherein the open area of the second hole has a smaller area as the open area of the first hole.

The Ink cartridge D12 includes each of the ink cartridges D1 to D11, wherein the path cross-sectional area of the connection path is a smaller one Area as the open area of the first hole is.

The Ink cartridge D13 includes each of the ink cartridges D1 to D12, wherein the ink supply member is a frame member having an opening contains, which adjoins the interior, as well as a foil to cover the opening, the perimeter the opening is attached, and in addition to Forming the frame element using the top of the Connection path and the side wall surface of the connection path the bottom surface of the connection path using the film is formed.

The Ink cartridge D14 includes an ink cartridge D13, in addition for forming the frame member using the top of the first communication chamber and the side wall surface of first communication chamber the bottom surface of the first Communication chamber is formed using the film.

The Ink cartridge D15 includes ink cartridges D13 and D14, in addition for forming the frame member using the top the second communication chamber and the side wall surface the second communication chamber, the bottom surface of the second Communication chamber is formed using the film.

The Ink cartridge D16 includes ink cartridges D14 and D15, wherein the third hole in a to the bottom surface of the second communication chamber located in the adjacent position and in the side wall surface the second communication chamber opens, and a part of the opening circumference the third hole is formed by the film.

The Ink cartridge D17 includes each of the ink cartridges D1 to D16, wherein in the state of mounting in the ink jet recording apparatus the ambient air communication path over the interior and, moreover, the ambient air communication path is designed to be to the side of connection to the ambient air intake part and down to the side of the connection with the interior is inclined.

The Ink cartridge D18 includes each of the ink cartridges D13 to D16, wherein the film of a hydrophobic treatment on at least one part was subjected to the bottom surface of the ambient air communication path forms.

The ink cartridge E1 includes an ink cartridge having an ink supply member that includes an interior for storing ink, and an ambient air communication path that guides ambient air into the interior space, and an ambient air inlet portion that introduces the ambient air into the ambient air communication path and is located on the side surface of the ink supply member. which is mounted in an ink jet recording apparatus which performs recording by discharging the ink, and wherein in the state attached in the ink jet recording apparatus, the ambient air communication path is located above the indoor space, and moreover, the ambient air communication path is designed to be inclined downward from the connection side with the ambient air inlet path to the indoor connection side.

The Ink cartridge E2 comprises an ink cartridge E1, in which the ink reservoir element a frame element with an opening that matches the interior connects, and one at the periphery of the opening contains attached film for covering the opening, and a surface of the ambient air communication path formed by the film.

The Ink cartridge E3 includes an ink cartridge that is an ink reservoir containing an interior for storing ink, and an ambient air communication path, the ambient air in the Interior conducts, and an ambient air intake section, which controls the ambient air enters and enters the ambient air communication path located on the side surface of the ink reservoir element, this being mounted in an ink jet recording apparatus is that performs recording by discharging the ink, and wherein the ink reservoir member is a frame member having an opening, which adjoins the interior, and one at the periphery the opening attached film for covering the opening and a surface of the ambient air communication path formed by the film.

The Ink cartridge E4 comprises an ink cartridge E3, wherein in the state attached in the ink-jet recording apparatus the ambient air communication path over the interior and, moreover, the ambient air communication path is designed to be to the side of connection to the ambient air intake part and down to the side of the connection with the interior is inclined.

The Ink cartridge E5 includes each of the ink cartridges E2 to E4, wherein subjected the film to a hydrophobing treatment on at least one part which was the bottom surface of the ambient air communication path forms.

The Ink cartridge E6 includes each of the ink cartridges E1 to E5, wherein the ink reservoir element is constructed to have a first surface and has a second surface opposite to each other are, as well as a side surface, which is the first surface and the second surface connects; wherein the ambient air inlet part is on the side surface of the ink reservoir element is located; of the Ambient air communication path a first communication chamber, which is connected to the ambient air inlet part, a second Communication chamber, which is connected to the interior, and a the second communication chamber and the first communication chamber having connecting connection path; the first communication chamber and the second communication chamber are formed as a space such that the bottom surface on the side of the first surface is positioned and the top on the side of the second surface is positioned; wherein the first hole, which is the first communication chamber and connecting the ambient air inlet part, located in one position, that from the bottom surface of the first communication chamber is separate; and further wherein the second hole forming the connection path and the second communication chamber connects, in one position located from the top of the second communication chamber is separate.

The Ink cartridge E7 includes an ink cartridge E6, wherein the first Hole is positioned over the second hole when the first one Surface is used as cargo bed, and further positioned the second hole above the first hole is when the second surface as a cargo area is used.

The Ink cartridge E8 includes ink cartridges E6 and E7, with the first hole in one to the top of the first communication chamber located adjacent position and additionally a hole in the side wall surface of the first communication chamber open is.

The Ink cartridge E9 includes ink cartridges E6 to E8, with the second hole in an adjacent to the top of the second communication chamber Position is located and in addition a hole in the side wall surface the second communication chamber is open.

The Ink cartridge E10 includes each of the ink cartridges E6 to E9, wherein the second communication chamber with the third and fourth holes has at least two holes which the second communication chamber and connect the interior.

The Ink cartridge E11 includes an ink cartridge E10, in addition to the presence of a partition plate for dividing the first chamber and the second chamber into the interior the top of the second communication chamber is designed to overlap with the separator plate, the third hole in the Seitenwandflä surface of the communication chamber opens, and the fourth hole in the top of the communication chamber empties.

The ink cartridge E12 includes an ink Cartridge E10, wherein the fourth hole is positioned in the angular part of the top and is open to the angle part, which is positioned furthest from the second hole.

The Ink cartridge E13 includes an ink cartridge E10, wherein in the state the attachment in the ink jet recording apparatus the fourth hole at the top position in the second communication chamber is positioned.

The Ink cartridge E14 includes each of the ink cartridges E10 to E13, wherein the open area of the second hole has a smaller area as the open area of the third hole and the fourth Lochs is.

The Ink cartridge E15 includes each of the ink cartridges E10 to E14, wherein the path cross-sectional area of the connection path is a smaller one Area as the open area of the third hole and the fourth hole.

The Ink cartridge E16 includes each of the ink cartridges E6 to E15, wherein the open area of the second hole has a smaller area as the open area of the first hole.

The Ink cartridge E17 includes each of the ink cartridges E1 to E16, wherein the path cross-sectional area of the connection path is a smaller one Area as the open area of the first hole is.

The Ink cartridge E18 includes each of the ink cartridges E6 to E17, wherein in addition to the formation of the frame member using the top of the first communication chamber and the side wall surface the first communication chamber the bottom surface of the first Communication chamber is formed using the film.

The Ink cartridge E19 includes each of the ink cartridges E6 to E18, wherein in addition to the formation of the frame member using the top of the second communication chamber and the side wall surface the second communication chamber, the bottom surface of the second Communication chamber is formed using the film.

The Ink cartridge E20 includes an ink cartridge E10, wherein the third hole in a to the bottom surface of the second communication chamber adjacent Position is and in the side wall surface of the second Communication chamber opens, and part of the opening extent the third hole is formed by the film.

The Ink cartridge F1 includes an ink cartridge, which is an ink reservoir Contains an interior for storing the ink and is mounted in an ink jet recording apparatus which performs recording by discharging the ink, wherein an ink supply hole is provided which is in the Interior inkjet recording device stored ink feeds and on the side surface of the ink reservoir element located, an ink reservoir chamber, with the ink supply hole is connected and through a separator using the partition in the interior is formed, and an ink communication port, which connects the ink reservoir chamber with the interior and in the partition opens, being in the state of attachment in the ink jet recording device, the ink communication port is positioned lower than the ink supply hole.

The Ink cartridge F2 includes an ink cartridge F1, wherein the ink communication port is constructed to be that in the ink jet recording apparatus attached state by a predetermined distance from the ground surface the interior is positioned separately.

The Ink cartridge F3 includes ink cartridges F1 and F2, wherein in the state attached in the ink-jet recording apparatus a depression part is present in which a part of the wall part, which represents the bottom surface of the interior, a recessed Form forms, and beyond the depression part lower as the ink communication port is positioned.

The Ink cartridge F4 includes an ink cartridge F3, wherein the ink communication port is designed so that it is formed in that of the recessed part Space is positioned.

The Ink cartridge F5 includes ink cartridges F1 and F2, wherein in the state the mounting in the ink jet recording apparatus of the bottom surface of the interior performing wall part as a stepped part is formed, and the lowest step in the stepped part is positioned so that it is below the Ink communication port is positioned.

The Ink cartridge F6 includes an ink cartridge F5, wherein the ink communication port is designed so that it is positioned in the space of the lowest step is formed in the stepped part.

The ink cartridge F7 includes ink cartridges F5 and F7, wherein the side surface of the ink supply member in which the ink supply member is located is positioned so as to connect the peripheries of the first surface and the second surface opposite to the inks, respectively and the width dimension of the space formed by the recess part and the space formed by the lowest step in the stepped part is smaller than the opposite distance measure between at least the first surface and the second surface.

The Ink cartridge F8 includes each of the ink cartridges F1 to F7, wherein the ink reservoir chamber is formed in a tapered shape is, wherein the cross-sectional area in the distance from the Ink supply hole decreases.

The Ink cartridge F9 includes each of the ink cartridges F1 to F8, wherein the partition wall in the ink jet recording apparatus attached state with the the bottom surface of the interior representing wall part connected and is designed so that it is inclined upwards from the wall part.

The Ink cartridge F10 includes an ink cartridge F9 with the ink communication port in the partition is formed so as to extend from the wall portion is inclined upward.

The Ink cartridge F11 includes each of the ink cartridges F5 to F10, wherein a rotary element is present, which corresponds to the decrease the ink rotates and is axially supported in the inner space, and a Part of the rotary element is constructed so that it is positioned in the room that is formed by the graduated part leading to the is adjacent to the stepped portion representing the lowest level.

The Ink cartridge F12 includes each of the ink cartridges F1 to F11, wherein when attached to the ink jet recording apparatus Ink supply part is present, which stored in the interior Ink of the ink jet recording apparatus over the Supplies ink supply hole and on the side surface of the ink reservoir element is formed.

The Ink cartridge G1 includes an ink cartridge having an ink reservoir member, which forms an ink reservoir chamber for storing the ink, and a rotary member which rotates in accordance with the decrease of the ink and designed to be in the ink reservoir can rotate, wherein the rotary member has a Lichtblockierteil, which is displaced by this rotation and in the ink reservoir element there is a path positioned so that the light blocking part through the rotating surface of the rotary member and the pair can be moved from horizontal wall surfaces, and a part to be detected is present, with light from outside when irradiated in the ink jet recording apparatus is attached, wherein the part to be detected a pair of second Has intervals that are at a pair of first intervals connect, each between the light blocking part and the pair of wall surfaces, and wherein the design of the second distance narrower than the first distance is.

The Ink cartridge G2 comprises an ink cartridge G1, wherein the to be detected Part has a first wall, which is thicker than the Lichtblockierteil and further extends parallel to the rotating surface and positioned between the pair of wall surfaces, and wherein the pair of second intervals between the pair of Wall surfaces and the first wall is formed.

The Ink cartridge G3 includes an ink cartridge G2, in which the to be detected Part has a bottom surface, which is the lower part of the pair of wall surfaces connects and to the first wall is formed, with this bottom surface constructed so is that they are on the bottom of the side of the ink reservoir is inclined down.

The Ink cartridge G4 comprises an ink cartridge G3, wherein the location, where the first wall and the bottom face intersect, is formed in cross section with a square shape.

The Ink cartridge G5 includes an ink cartridge G4 having an ink supply part for supplying ink to the ink jet recording apparatus is present in the ink reservoir chamber in the ink reservoir formed below the bottom surface of the part to be detected is, as well as a second wall, which is on the side of the ink supply part extends out of the position of the connection with the first wall, and formed from the inner surface of the ink reservoir member which is the ink supply part and the bottom surface of the part to be detected connects.

The Ink cartridge G6 includes an ink cartridge G5, wherein the location, where the second wall and the inner surface of the ink reservoir element intersect, is formed in cross section with a square shape.

The Ink cartridge G7 includes ink cartridges G5 and G6, with the inner surface of the ink reservoir member forming the second wall, an oblique Has surface from the side of the to be detected Partly down to the side of the ink supply part is inclined.

The ink cartridge G8 includes each of the ink cartridges G1 to G7, the rotary member including the light blocking member, a counterweight member positioned on the opposite side of this light detecting member, and a connection member having a fixed support point supporting the counterweight member connecting the light blocking member, wherein of the rotary member, at least the counterweight member is made of a material having a lower specific gravity than that of the ink.

The Ink cartridge G9 includes an ink cartridge G8, wherein the counterweight portion made of polypropylene.

The Ink cartridge G10 includes ink cartridges G1 to G9, wherein the the capturing part has an upper surface that coincides with the uppermost point the pair is connected by wall surfaces and the floor surface is arranged opposite, with this top in one too the light blocking part adjacent position is arranged.

The Ink cartridge G11 includes an ink cartridge having an ink reservoir, which forms an ink reservoir chamber for storing the ink, and a rotary member which rotates in accordance with the decrease of the ink and designed to be in the ink reservoir can rotate, wherein the rotary member has a Lichtblockierteil, which is displaced by this rotation and in the ink reservoir element there is a path positioned so that the light blocking part through the rotating surface of the rotary member and the pair can be moved from horizontal wall surfaces, and a part to be detected is present, with light from outside when irradiated in the ink jet recording apparatus is attached, wherein the part to be detected a pair of liquid crystal guide paths which are connected to the pair of first intervals, each between the light blocking part and the pair of wall surfaces are formed, wherein the pair of liquid crystal guide paths the ink remaining in the first interval is drawn by capillary action.

The Ink Cartridge Packaging Unit H1 includes an ink cartridge packaging unit. which contains an ink cartridge containing an ink reservoir having an interior, wherein stored in a part of it ink and attached so as to be out of the ink jet recording apparatus can be removed, and a packaging bag of flexibility and has gas barrier properties and contains this ink cartridge, wherein the ink reservoir member is a frame member having a first opening which is connected to the interior, a first film, has flexibility and gas barrier properties, which covers the first opening and at the periphery of this first opening is attached, and a first pressure chamber in which the pressure is reduced so was that it is lower than the atmospheric pressure, and which is another room in the interior as the space in which the ink is stored, being the interior the packaging unit has a second pressure chamber in which the pressure was reduced so that it was lower than the first pressure is.

The Ink cartridge packaging unit H2 includes an ink cartridge packaging unit H1, wherein the frame member has a first rib, which the first foil supported from the interior side.

The Ink cartridge packaging unit H3 includes an ink cartridge packaging unit H2, wherein the first foil is attached to the first rib.

The Ink Cartridge Packaging Unit H4 includes ink cartridge packaging units H2 and H3, wherein the ink reservoir element has a second opening has, which is connected to the interior and on the first opening of the frame member opposite side opens, a second slide, the flexibility and gas barrier properties which the second opening covering and attached to the periphery of this second opening is, and a partition plate, which the interior in the first chamber on the side of the first opening and the second chamber divided on the side of the second opening, the Partition plate has a first rib, which is the first film the side of the first opening is supported, and one second rib, which the second film on the side of the second opening supported.

The Ink Cartridge Packaging Unit H5 includes an ink cartridge packaging unit H4, wherein the second foil is attached to the second rib.

The Ink cartridge packaging unit H6 includes each of the ink cartridge packaging units H1 to H5, wherein the interior space has an ink space and in at least a part of which the ink is stored, and one Ambient air communication space containing this ink space and the outside Part connects, and wherein the vacuum space the ambient air communication space includes.

The ink cartridge packaging unit manufacturing method H7 comprises an ink cartridge having an ink reservoir member having an inner space, a part of which is stored with ink and which is attached so as to be removable from the ink jet recording apparatus, and a manufacturing method for a An ink cartridge packaging bag having flexibility and gas barrier properties and containing this ink cartridge, comprising a preparation process for providing the ink reservoir member having a frame member with a first Öff having a first film which has flexibility and gas barrier properties and which covers the first opening, and which is attached to the periphery of this first opening; an ink injection process of previously reducing the pressure to a pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure in the inner space located in the ink reservoir member provided by the preliminary operation and injecting ink so that the negative pressure space, the was generated by the first pressure, which is lower than the atmospheric pressure, remains in the interior space; a pickup operation for picking up the ink cartridge filled with ink by this ink injection operation inside the packaging bag; and a packing space pressure reducing operation for reducing the second pressure to be lower than the first pressure in the packaging bag in which the ink cartridge has been picked up by this picking operation.

The Method H8 for manufacturing the ink cartridge packaging unit includes a method of manufacturing an ink cartridge packaging unit H7, in which the ink injection process causes a later pressure reducing operation for reducing the third pressure in the vacuum space, so that it is lower than the first pressure and higher than that second pressure is.

The Method H9 for manufacturing the ink cartridge packaging unit includes manufacturing method for an ink cartridge packaging unit H7 and H8, wherein the preparatory process is a molding process for molding the frame member and the ink reservoir element having this frame member and a first rib for supporting the first foil from Interior ago includes, as well as a first fastening operation for Attach the first film to the first rib and the perimeter of the first opening, making it the first opening covering the molded by the molding frame member.

The Method H10 for manufacturing the ink cartridge packaging unit includes a method of manufacturing an ink cartridge packaging unit H9, wherein in the molding process, the ink reservoir element with a second opening is formed, which is connected to the interior is and opposite to the first opening in the frame member Side opens, and the preparatory process a second Fixing process for fixing a second film, the flexibility and Has gas barrier properties, at the periphery of the second opening so that it covers the second opening of the molding process covered shaped frame element.

The Method H11 for manufacturing the ink cartridge packaging unit includes a method of manufacturing an ink cartridge packaging unit H10, wherein the ink reservoir is formed in the molding process, a partition plate, which the interior in the first chamber the side of the first opening and a second chamber divided the side of the second opening, as well as a first Rib, which is on the side of the first opening of the separating plate is formed here, and a second rib on the side of the second opening is formed, and the second Fixing process not only the first film on the circumference of the second opening attached, but also attached the second foil and the second rib.

The ink cartridge I1 comprises an ink cartridge having an ink supply chamber for storing the ink and an ink supply member having an ink supply path adjoining this ink supply chamber and mounted so as to be removable from an ink jet recording apparatus, wherein a first insertion path is formed into which the hollow ink-removing member may be inserted to take out the ink and attached to the ink-jet recording apparatus, comprising: an elastic member having elasticity for sealing the ink-removing member inserted in the first insertion path; a valve member that is closer to the ink reservoir than the elastic member in the ink supply path that closes the first insertion path by contacting the elastic member when the ink cartridge is removed from the ink jet recording apparatus, and the ink supply from the ink reservoir into the ink extraction member permits by contacting the edge portion of the ink extraction member when the ink cartridge is mounted in the ink jet recording apparatus; and a cap for preventing removal of the elastic member from the side opposite to the ink reservoir side, said cap having a second insertion path into which the ink extraction member is inserted before the first insertion path and extending along the same axis as the first insertion path an inner tubular part having inside said second insertion path, wherein the opening diameter of the edge part of said second insertion path on the first insertion path side is designed to be smaller than the opening diameter on the side on which the ink withdrawing element is inserted into the first insertion path first insertion path, a first outer tubular member enclosing this inner tubular member, a connector member for connecting this first outer tubular member and the inner tubular member to the side on which the ink withdrawing member is inserted, and one An ink storage part for receiving the ink flowing down between the first insertion path and the edge part of the inner tubular part, which is formed to be surrounded by this connector part, the first outer tubular part, and the inner tubular part.

The Ink cartridge I2 comprises an ink cartridge I1, wherein the cap contains a flange part, which is connected to the surface on the side on which the ink-removing element of the elastic Elements is used, is in contact, and that on the edge part on the side of the first insertion path of the first outer tubular part is formed, and a second outer tubular part, which extends along the side of the ink reservoir, the the outer peripheral surface of the elastic member of the Edge of this flange follows.

The Ink cartridge I3 comprises an ink cartridge I2, wherein the ink reservoir member a tubular ink supply part has, where the ink supply path is formed, and a projection on the outer peripheral surface of this ink supply path is formed, which protrudes outwards, and wherein the second outer tubular part not extends only along the side of the ink reservoir and the elastic element and the ink supply part encloses, but also a counterpart is formed, in which the Lead can be inserted.

The Ink cartridge I4 includes ink cartridges I2 and I3, wherein in the second outer tubular part a notched portion is formed extending from the edge portion the side of the ink reservoir chamber extends from the flange.

The Ink cartridge I5 includes each of the ink cartridges I1 to I4, wherein at least a portion of the first insertion path when viewed in cross section is formed with a tapered shape whose diameter narrower in the insertion direction of the ink-removing member becomes.

The Ink cartridge I6 includes each of the ink cartridges I1 to I4, wherein at least a portion of the first insertion path when viewed in cross section formed with a stepped and tapered shape is, whose diameter in the insertion direction of the ink-removing element becomes narrower.

The Ink cartridge I7 includes each of the ink cartridges I1 to I6, wherein at least a portion of the second insertion path as viewed in Cross section formed with a tapered shape is, whose diameter in the insertion direction of the ink-removing element becomes narrower.

The Ink cartridge I8 includes each of the ink cartridges I3 to I7, wherein the elastic element contains a first press-in part, which is pressed into the space of the edge part on the the ink supply chamber opposite side in the ink supply part, the second outer tubular part and the flange part is surrounded, and a second press-in part, which is pressed into the first Einsetzpfad and that of the first Pressing part protrudes toward the side of the first insertion path.

The Ink cartridge J1 has an ink cartridge that is not just one Ink storage chamber for storing the ink inside, but also has a side surface extending in the Vertical direction extends when the ink cartridge in the ink jet recording apparatus is mounted, and so in the ink jet recording apparatus can be attached that they can be removed, taking on the side surface of an ink supply part to Supplying the ink stored in the ink reservoir to the ink jet recording apparatus, an ambient air inlet part to Admitting the ambient air into the ink reservoir, and a part to be detected, which is irradiated by the light emitted by the optical sensor outputted in the ink jet recording apparatus is arranged to the remaining amount of ink in the ink reservoir not only the ambient air intake part positioned higher than the ink supply member is, but also the part to be recorded higher than that Ink supply part and lower than the ambient air intake part is positioned.

The Ink cartridge J2 includes an ink cartridge J1, wherein a rotary member is present, which has a Lichtblockierteil, the rotating is moved and according to the decrease in the Ink rotates and is arranged inside the ink reservoir element, and wherein the part to be detected forms a path so positioned is that the light blocking element using a part the wall surface defining the ink reservoir, can be moved, and by detecting the position of the light blocking member using the optical sensor, the remaining amount of ink can be detected in the ink reservoir.

The ink cartridge J3 comprises an ink cartridge J2, wherein the rotary member not only has the light blocking member on the side of an edge, but also has a counterweight portion on the other side and rotates about the fulcrum between the light blocking member and the counterweight member, and the counterweight member by a buoyant force effect , which is stronger than gravity, is shifted upward when fully positioned in the ink, and is displaced downward by a decrease in the buoyant force, when the ink decreases and a part of the ink level appears.

The Ink cartridge J4 includes an ink cartridge J3 with a pathway provided is formed in the ambient air inlet part, as well as a valve member having a depressible member, which is placed inside this path and from the side of the Ink jet recording device is pressed forth, when the ink cartridge is attached to the ink jet recording apparatus is attached, and as a result of pressing this depressible Elements connects the ink reservoir and the outside, and that the connection between the ink reservoir chamber and the Outside blocked when the ink cartridge from the inkjet recording device is removed.

The Ink cartridge J5 includes each of the ink cartridges J1 to J4, wherein the ink supply part and the part to be detected of project the side surface, and the part to be detected closer to the side of the side surface than the leading edge the protrusion of the ink supply part and the ambient air intake part is appropriate.

The Ink cartridge J6 includes an ink cartridge J5, wherein an ink reservoir member is present, which represents the ink reservoir, and a housing, which limits the side surface and additionally the Including ink supply member; wherein the ink supply part, the ambient air inlet part and the part to be detected are formed are that they project from the ink reservoir element, and the housing has an ink supply part through-hole, protruding outward from the ink supply part, and a detection window including the ambient air inlet part through hole and leaves the part to be detected outwards.

The Ink cartridge J7 includes an ink cartridge J6, wherein the housing a protrusion part extending from both sides containing the ink supply part, the part to be detected and the ambient air intake part between pick up, further protruding outward than the ink supply part and the ambient air intake part.

The Ink cartridge J8 includes an ink cartridge J7, with one side of the projection part has a fitting part, which is in the counterpart at the mounting part of the ink-jet recording apparatus is arranged.

The Ink cartridge J9 includes an ink cartridge J8, wherein the fitting part is a guide pin that extends along the direction in which the ink cartridge in the attachment part of the ink jet recording apparatus is attached, and the counterpart a guide is that extends along the direction in which the guide pin is inserted and inserted.

The Manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K1 includes a manufacturing method for an ink cartridge with a Ink supply element having an interior, wherein in at least a part of which the ink can be stored, and a housing, which is composed of several structural elements and this Ink supply member encloses, and on an ink jet recording device can be mounted so that it can be removed, including an ink injection process for injecting the ink into the interior, an assembly process for assembling the plurality of structural elements, so that the ink reservoir element in the housing in the state can be included in the ink inside the interior stored by the ink injection process, and a welding process for welding the several structural elements together by means of vibration using ultrasonic waves in the state in which the ink reservoir member taken up by this assembly process in the housing is.

The Manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K2 includes a manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K1 comprising a preparatory process for providing the ink reservoir element with the frame member having a first opening, the is connected to the interior, prior to the ink injection process, the first film that has flexibility, the first opening covering, and attached to the periphery of this first opening is, and the first rib, which this first film from the interior side supported.

The Manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K3 includes a manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K2, wherein the preparatory process comprises a first molding operation for molding the ink reservoir element with the frame member and the first rib, which supports the first film from the interior side, and a first fixing process for fixing the first Foil at the first rib and at the periphery of the first opening, so that they are the first opening of the first molding process covered shaped frame element.

The manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K4 includes a method of manufacturing an ink cartridge K3, wherein in the first molding operation, the ink reservoir member is formed with a second opening adjoining the interior and open on the opposite side to the first opening of the frame member send a second fixing operation for fixing the second film, which has flexibility and gas barrier properties, to the periphery of the second opening so as to cover the second opening of the frame member formed by the first molding operation.

The Manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K5 includes a manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K4, wherein in the first molding process, the ink supply element with a partition plate, which the interior in the first chamber on the side of the first opening and the second chamber on the side of the second opening divided, the first rib on the side of the first opening is arranged from this partition plate ago, and a second rib, which is arranged on the side of the second opening, shaped is, and wherein the second fastening operation not only the second Slide attached to the perimeter of the second opening, but also attached the second foil to the second rib.

The Manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K6 includes Manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K3 to K5, wherein the preparatory process is a second molding process for molding a rotary member having a light blocking member, which is moved in rotation and in the interior according to the Decrease of the ink is rotated, and wherein in the first molding process a path is formed, which is positioned so that the light blocking element can be moved, and arranged on the frame element is formed, and the ink reservoir member is formed, the one to be detected Part, which is irradiated by the light, that of the optical Sensor is output, which in the inkjet recording device is arranged, and the preparatory process an attachment process for attaching the rotary member formed by the second molding operation on the frame element.

The Manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K7 includes a manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K6, wherein is formed in the first molding process, the ink reservoir element with an ink supply part which stores the ink in the ink supply chamber the inkjet recording device supplies and from the side surface of the frame member protrudes, an ambient air intake part, the ambient air enters the ink reservoir chamber and in the same direction as the ink supply part of the side surface of the frame member protrudes, of which this Ink supply part protrudes, and the part to be detected, between the ambient air inlet part and the ink supply part on the side surface of the frame member of which the ambient air inlet part and the ink supply part projecting into the same Direction as the ambient air inlet part and the ink supply part protrudes.

The Manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K8 includes a manufacturing method for an ink cartridge K7, wherein the preparatory process a third molding process for molding the a plurality of structural members so that the ink supply member through-hole, through which the ink supply part protrudes outwards, the ambient air inlet part through-hole through which the Ambient air inlet part protrudes outwards, and the detection window, which leaves the part to be detected out, arranged on a surface of the housing; wherein in this assembly process, the third molding process Shaped, several structural elements are assembled so that the ink supply part from the ink supply part through hole after outwardly protrudes, the ambient air inlet part of the surrounding air intake part through-hole projecting outward, and the part to be detected through the detection window is released to the outside; and wherein in the welding process the multiple structural elements in a different part than the one Surface of the housing are welded together.

The Ink cartridge L1 includes an ink cartridge, which is a housing with an ink reservoir chamber for storing the ink inside and attached to an ink jet recording apparatus which can be recorded by discharging the ink in the ink reservoir stored ink, wherein an ink supply part is present, the ink stored in the ink reservoir chamber the inkjet recording device supplies and from a surface of the housing outwards protrudes, an ambient air inlet part, the ambient air in the Ink supply chamber and in the same direction like the ink supply part of a surface protrudes outward from the housing, and a pair of Projecting portions farther than the ink supply portion and the ambient air inlet part protrude in the same direction, in the ink supply part and the ambient air intake part projecting, and which are connected to the housing; and the pair of projecting parts respectively on the two sides arranged between the ink supply part and the ambient air inlet part between to record oneself.

The Ink cartridge L2 includes an ink cartridge L1, wherein one of the projecting parts has a fitting part, which in the attachment part the ink jet recording device arranged counterpart can be inserted.

The ink cartridge L3 comprises an ink cartridge L2, wherein the fitting part is a guide pin which extends along the direction in which the ink cartridge is mounted in the mounting portion of the ink jet recording apparatus, and the counterpart is a guide groove extending in the direction in which the guide pin is inserted and inserted.

The Ink cartridge L4 includes each of the ink cartridges L1 to L3, wherein the case with the shape of a shortened box is formed, which contains a surface; the pair of projecting parts on both edge parts the surface containing the ink supply part and receive the ambient air inlet part between them, in the line-up direction the ink supply part and the ambient air intake part is arranged; and the protrusion part in the pair of protruding ones Share that is positioned lower when the ink cartridge is in the ink jet recording apparatus is mounted, a has sloping surface, which is in the upward direction extending from the bottom surface of the housing, the from the one surface is separate.

The Ink cartridge L5 includes each of the ink cartridges L1 to L4, wherein an ink reservoir member is provided in the housing is received and which forms the ink reservoir chamber; the ink supply part and the ambient air intake part are formed to be separated from projecting outwardly of the ink supply element; and where in the Housing an ink supply part through-hole is provided, by the ink supply part after outwardly projecting, and an ambient air inlet part through-hole, through which the ambient air inlet part protrudes outwards, and both of these are formed on one surface are.

The Ink cartridge L6 includes an ink cartridge L5, wherein a part of the Ink supply element protrudes in the same direction as the direction, to the ink supply part and the ambient air intake part between the ink supply part and the ambient air intake part projecting; wherein there is a part to be detected, that of the light irradiated from the optical sensor is irradiated is disposed on the ink jet recording apparatus is to detect the amount of residual ink; and being on one Surface of the housing a detection window is present, which opens in a position which corresponds to the part to be recorded.

The Ink cartridge L7 includes an ink cartridge L6, wherein in the ink storage chamber a rotary member is provided with a light blocking member, the is moved in rotation and according to a decrease in the Ink turns; wherein the part to be detected forms a path, the is positioned so that the light blocking part on a part of Wall surface can be moved over by the ink reservoir demarcates; and it by detecting the position of the light blocking member through the optical sensor is possible, the remaining amount of ink in the ink reservoir.

(Explanation of the reference numbers)

1 - Multifunction device; 1a - front surface; 1b - floor area; 2 - Receiver; r - printer part; 12 - scanner part; 13 - refill unit; 14 - ink cartridge; 15 - Document glass; 16 - template cover; 17 - automatic document feeder (ADF); 18 - Master drawer; 19 - paper output tray; 20 - opening / closing cover; 21 - opening; 22 - opening; 23 - slot part; 30 - control panel; 31 to 34 - control buttons; 35 - Liquid crystal display part; 40 - Casing; 40a - recess; 41 - flap; 42 - bottom plate part; 42a - bearing part; 43 - side panel part; 44 - ceiling panel part; 44a - rib; 44b Pivoting lever mechanism; 45 - opening; 46 - Locking element fitting part; 47 - partition wall part; 48 - Needle forming part; 49 - needle; 49a - recess; 50 - receiving chamber (receiving part); 51 - installation area; 52 - ink discharge opening; 53 - ink tube; 54 - Channel; 55 - Head Start; 56 - back surface; 57 - waste ink detection sensor; 57a - light transmission part; 57b - light receiver part; 60 - flap main body; 60a - Nose receiving part; 60b - Slide rail; 60c - Nose receiving part; 60d - Nose receiving part; 60e - pin mounting hole; 61 - Pressure element; 61a - hooks; 61b - wall surface; 61c - protruding strip; 62 - flap locking element; 62a - main body part; 62b - wedge part; 62c - seat part; 62d - sliding groove; 62e - hooks; 63 - release lever; 63a - retaining pin; 63b - engagement cam; 64 - Turning part; 65 - pull-out element; 65a - extension part; 65b - hook part; 65c - outer wall surface; 66 - coil spring; 67 - coil spring; 100 - Ink supply element; 110 - Frame part (frame member, portion of the ink reservoir element); 111 - ink reservoir (interior); 111 - first chamber; 111b - second chamber; 112a - First opening (opening section, opening area); 112b Second opening (opening section; 113 - First inner storage chamber opening (connecting channel for connecting the first chamber and the second chamber); 114 - Second inner storage chamber opening (connecting channel for connecting the first chamber and the second chamber); 116 - ink supply element; 116a . 116b - projection part (projection); 117 - Ambient air inlet element; 117a . 117b - projection part; 120 - ink supply part (part of ink supply member); 130 - Ambient air inlet part (part of the ink reservoir element); 140 - Detection part (part of the ink reservoir element, part to be detected, irradiated part); 140a . 140b - Detection surface (pair of opposite side surfaces); 140c - edge part (edge part, where the Sei surface to the front in the direction of installation cuts the detection surface); 141 - Enclosing part (includes a pair of wall surfaces, which are substantially parallel to the plane of rotation of the light blocking part); 141 Bottom wall (wall representing the bottom surface of the part to be detected; bottom wall representing the bottom surface of the part irradiated); 141b Side walls (side walls forming a pair of side surfaces of the irradiated part); 141c - inner sidewall; 141d - ceiling wall (ceiling wall, which represents the ceiling surface of the irradiated part); 150 - Ink output part (part of the ink reservoir element); 160 Film (part of the ink supply element; first film (film welded to the first side of the opening); second film (film welded to the second side of the opening)); 200 - Casing; 200a - sliding part; 210 - First housing element (portion of the housing); 210a - main area; 210b to 210e - vertical wall part; 211 - Housing recess (portion of the ink supply member through hole of the housing); 212 - Housing recess (portion of the ambient air inlet part-passage opening of the housing); 213 - Housing recess (portion of the detection window of the housing; portion of the recess for forming the detection window on the two opposite side surfaces of the part to be detected); 211 . 212a - contact groove; 214a - housing projection (section of the projecting part of the housing, other projecting part); 214b - housing projection (portion of the projecting part of the housing, the one projecting part); 214a1 . 214b1 - Gehäusevorsprungausnehmung; 214a2 - inclined surface; 214b2 - Housing passport groove (section of the inserted part of the housing, section of the guide groove); 215a to 215c - pin element; 216 - First Gehäuseverschweissteil; 216a - deepening part; 216b - engaging part; 217 - Second Gehäuseverschweissteil; 217a - locking part; 220 - Second housing element (portion of the housing); 220a - main area; 220b to 220e - vertical wall part; 221 - Housing recess (portion of the ink supply member through hole of the housing); 222 - Housing recess (portion of the ambient air inlet part-passage opening of the housing); 223 - Housing recess (portion of the detection window of the housing; portion of the recess for forming the detection window on the two opposite side surfaces of the part to be detected); 224a - housing projection (section of the projecting part of the housing, other projecting part); 224b - housing projection (portion of the projecting part of the housing, the one projecting part); 224A1 . 224b1 - Gehäusevorsprungausnehmung; 224a2 - inclined surface; 224b2 - Housing passport groove (section of the inserted part of the housing, section of the guide groove); 225a to 225c - Einpasslochteil; 226 - First Gehäuseverschweissteil; 226a - deepening part; 226b - engaging part; 227 - Second Gehäuseverschweissteil; 227a - locking part; 300 - Protective cap; 310 Protective cap passage opening; 320 - first protective cap fitting; 321 . 322 - vertical cap wall; 330a . 330b - second protective cap fitting; 330a1 . 330b1 - projection part; 330a2 . 330b2 - shaft part; 340a . 340b - Protective cap insert part; 400a . 400b - Außenumfangverschweissteil (outer frame part; 400b1 - Section of the wall portion of the Außenumfangverschweissteils; 411a to 417a - Inner peripheral Verschweissteil (rib for supporting the film, first rib for supporting the film); 411b to 417b - Innenumfangverschweissteil (rib for supporting the film, second rib for supporting the film); 418a . 418b - Connecting rib (auxiliary wall part); 420 Feed path forming part; 421 - first feed connection port (ink supply hole); 422 - feeder partition (wall section); 423 Second feed connection port (ink communication port); 424 - Zuführungsvertiefungsteil (recessed contact part); 424a - depression subspace (space formed by the recessed contact part); 425 - Armumfassungsteil (receiving part); 426 - Ink supply chamber; 427 - plate part; 428 - plate part; 430 - Ambient air communication channel forming part (ambient air communication channel); 431 - first ambient air communication chamber (first communication chamber communicating with the ambient air inlet part); 431a - side wall surface; 432 - second ambient air communication chamber (second communication chamber communicating with the interior); 432a Sidewall surface; 433 - Ambient air connection channel (connection channel); 433a - communicating opening; 433b - communicating opening (second hole for connecting the connection channel to the second communication chamber); 434 - first ambient air communication hole (first hole for communicating the first communication chamber with the ambient air inlet part); 435 Second ambient air communication hole (third hole for communicating the second communication chamber and the inner space); 436 Third ambient air communication hole (fourth hole for connecting the second communication chamber and the inner space); 437a - First surface (bottom surface of the first communication chamber, bottom surface of the second communication chamber, bottom surface of the ambient air communication channel, a surface of the ambient air communication channel); 437b - second surface; 438 - plate part; 440 - Connection forming part (partition plate; 441 - Ambient air side connector (section of separator plate); 442 Output side terminal part (part of the partition plate); 443 to 446 - Connection connection hole (connection channel for connection of the first chamber and the second chamber); 450 Output channel forming part (injection part); 451 Output cylinder part (ink injection flow path); 451a - Open (opening of the ink injection flow path); 451b Lower part (lower part of the ink injection flow path); 452 - first output communication port (first hole, section of the communication part); 453 - output partition wall (wall section, section communication part); 453a Output partition wall flow path (connection flow path; section of the communication part); 454 Second output communication port (second hole, section of the communication part); 460a to 460c - passage opening; 470 - Sensor arm (rotary element); 471 Counterweight part (section of the rotary element, float part); 472 - Attachment part (connection part of the rotary member, section of the connecting part); 472a - attachment (upper part of the shaft); 473 - Armteil (Lichblockierteil of the rotary member, section of the communication part, Lichtbarriereteil); 473a Vertical arm part (section of the light blocking part, section of the connecting part); 473b - oblique arm part (portion of the light blocking part); arm 473c Shielding arm part (portion of the light blocking part, light barrier part); 473d Rib (portion of the light blocking member); 473e1 . 473e2 - Armvorsprungteil (portion of the light blocking member; Lichtbarriereteil); 500 - ink supply mechanism; 501 - Supply valve element (valve element); 510 - ambient air intake mechanism; 511 - Ambient air valve element; 520 - ink dispensing plug; 520a - outer end surface; 600 Feed cap (cap); 600a - opening; 601 - feed attachment part (second outer cylindrical part); 602 - Ink storage part; 603a . 603b - engagement opening (fitting part of the second outer cylindrical part); 604a . 604b - Zuführungskappenausnehmung (recess of the second outer cylindrical part); 605 - insertion opening (portion of the second insertion channel, ink supply port); 606a - first upper wall; 606b Oblique wall (section of the second insertion channel, inner cylindrical part); 606c - bottom wall (connection part); 606d - second upper wall (flange part); 606e - Outer peripheral wall (first outer cylindrical part); 607 - Ink storage part; 610 - Feed seal (elastic element); 611 - Outer peripheral part of the seal (first Einpressteil); 612 - Inner peripheral part of the seal (second presser); 612a - top; 612b - floor area; 612c - opening; 612d - insertion channel; 613 - Contact part of the seal; 613a - Top; 613b - Inner peripheral surface; 614 - projection part of the seal; 614a - Inner peripheral surface; 614b - graded surface; 615 Ink flow path (first insertion path into which the extraction member is inserted); 615a Step part flow path (portion of the first insertion path); 615b Protrusion part flow path (portion of the first insertion path); 615c Contact part flow path (portion of the first insertion path); 620 - Supply valve (portion of the valve element); 621 - valve bottom wall; 622 - Valve outer peripheral wall; 622a - valve projection part; 623 - Ventilführungsnut; 624 - valve projection wall; 625 Valve holding part; 626 - Valve hook part; 627 - ink flow path; 628 - Valve bearing part; 629 - Valve inner peripheral wall; 630 - First feed spring (portion of the valve element); 631 lower spring part; 632 - Upper spring part; 633 - flexible spring part; 634 - ink flow path; 634a Upper part flow path; 634b Plastic part flow path; 634c Lower partial flow path; 640 Feed gate (section of valve element); 641 - Schieberaussenumfangswand; 642a . 642b Slide gate wall; 643 - insertion part; 644 - slider platform part; 645 Slide gate; 650 - second feed spring (portion of the valve element); 651 - lower spring part; 652 - Upper spring part; 653 - flexible spring part; 654 - ink flow path; 654a Upper part flow path; 654b Plastic part flow path; 654c Lower partial flow path; 660 - valve seat; 661 - valve seat base; 662 - Valve seat bearing part; 662a - oblique valve seat surface; 662b - First valve seat passage opening; 663 - Second valve seat passage opening; 664 Valve seat communication groove; 665 - valve projection part; 670 - Check valve; 671 - screen part; 671a - connection part; 671b - wing part; 672 - shaft part; 672a - Ball part; 680 - cover; 681 - Abdeclimgsaussenumfangsteil; 682 Upper cover part; 683 - first cover passage opening; 684 - second cover passage opening; 700 - ambient air cap; 701 - ambient air safety part; 702 Lower ambient air cap part; 703a . 703b - engagement opening; 704a . 704b - ambient air cap recess; 705 - ambient air cap insertion opening; 710 - ambient air seal; 711 - Outer peripheral part of the seal; 712 - Inner peripheral part of the seal; 712a - upper surface; 713 - projection part of the seal; 713a - lace part; 714 - Sealing collar part; 715 - sealing channel; 720 - Ambient air valve (valve element for forming the ambient air inlet path); 721 - valve bottom wall; 721a Valve opening part (sliding part that communicates with the ambient air intake path); 721b - deepening part; 722 - Valve outer peripheral wall; 722a - valve projection part; 723 - Ventilführungsnut; 724 - valve projection wall; 725 - valve holding part; 726 - Valve hook part; 727 - ink flow path; 728 - Valve bearing part; 729 - Valve inner peripheral wall; 730 - first ambient air spring; 731 - lower spring part; 732 - Upper spring part; 733 - flexible spring part; 734 - ink flow path; 734a Upper part flow path; 734b Plastic part flow path; 734c Lower partial flow path; 740 - ambient air valve; 741 - Schieberaussenumfangsfläche; 742a . 742b Slide gate wall; 743 - insertion part; 744 - slider platform part; 745 Slide gate; 750 - second ambient air spring; 751 - lower spring part; 752 - Upper spring part; 753 - flexible spring part; 754 - ink flow path; 754a Upper part flow path; 754b Plastic part flow path; 754c Lower partial flow path; 800 - Inner peripheral surface of the ink reservoir element (ink supply path); 801 - projection wall; 801 - graded surface; 810 - Inner peripheral surface of the ambient air inlet member; 811 - projection part; 900 - ultrasonic welding surface; 910 - pressure reducing device; 911 - Suction tube; 912 - suction pump; 920 - ink dispensing needle; 930 - packaging bag; 931 - opening; 940 - pressure reducing device; 941 - Suction tube; 942 - suction pump; 960 - ink cartridge attachment detection sensor; 970 - control board; 971 - CPU; 972 - ROME; 973 - RAM; 974 - EEPROM; 975 - PC interface; 976 - inkjet printer; 977 - Display device (LCD); 978 - interface circuit; 980 - external PC; 1013 - refill unit; 1040 - Casing; 1041 - flap; 1200 - Casing; 1200a - Casing; 1210 - First housing element (portion of the housing); 1210a - main area; 1210b to 1210e - vertical wall part; 1211 - Housing recess (portion of the ink supply member through hole of the housing); 1212 - Housing recess (portion of the ambient air inlet part-passage opening of the housing); 1213 - Housing recess (portion of the detection window of the housing; portion of the recess for forming the detection window on the two opposite side surfaces of the part to be detected); 1214a - Housing projection (portion of the projection portion of the housing, the other projecting portion); 1214b - Housing projection (portion of the projection portion of the housing, the one projecting part); 1214a1 . 1214b1 - Gehäusevorsprungausnehmung; 1214a2 - inclined surface; 1214b2 - Housing passport groove (portion of the fitting part of the housing, section of the guide groove); 1215a to 215c - pin element; 1216 - First Gehäuseverschweissteil; 1216a - deepening part; 1216b - engaging part; 1217 - Second Gehäuseverschweissteil; 1217a - locking part; 1218 - rib; 1300 - Protective cap; 2040 - Casing; 2100 - Ink supply element; 2200 - Casing; 2210 - First housing element (housing section); 2210a - main area; 2210b to 2210E - vertical wall part; 2211 - Housing recess (portion of the ink supply member through hole of the housing); 2212 - Housing recess (portion of the ambient air inlet part-passage opening of the housing); 2213 - Housing recess (portion of the detection window of the housing; portion of the recess for forming the detection window on the two opposite side surfaces of the part to be detected); 2214a - Housing projection (portion of the projection portion of the housing, the other projecting portion); 2214b - Housing projection (portion of the projection portion of the housing, the one projecting part); 2214a2 - inclined surface; 2215a to 2215c - pin element; 2216 - First Gehäuseverschweissteil; 2216a - deepening part; 2216b - engaging part; 2217 - Second Gehäuseverschweissteil; 2217a - locking part; 2220 - Second housing element (portion of the housing); 2220a - main area; 2220b to 2220e - vertical wall part; 2221 - Housing recess (portion of the ink supply member through hole of the housing); 2222 - Housing recess (portion of the ambient air inlet part-passage opening of the housing); 2223 - Housing recess (portion of the detection window of the housing; portion of the recess for forming the detection window on the two opposite side surfaces of the part to be detected); 2224a - Housing projection (portion of the projection portion of the housing, the other projecting portion); 2224b - Housing projection (portion of the projection portion of the housing, the one projecting part); 2224a2 - inclined surface; 2226 - First Gehäuseverschweissteil; 2226a - deepening part; 2226b - engaging part; 2227 - Second Gehäuseverschweissteil; 2227a - locking part; 2040 - Casing; 2300 - Protective cap; 3013 - refill unit; 3014 - ink cartridge; 3061 - Pressure element; 3200 - Casing; 3130 - passage opening; 3131 - Ambient air inlet duct; 4014 - ink cartridge; 4120 - ink supply part; 4121 - ink supply port; 4122 - Poetry; 4123 - Valve; 4124 - spring element; 4125 - Partition wall; 4130 - passage opening; 4131 - Ambient air inlet duct; 4132 - sealing element; 4140 - detection part; 5014 - ink cartridge; 5120 - ink supply part; 6014 - ink cartridge; 6100 - deepening part; 7014 - ink cartridge; 7100 - deepening part; 8014 - ink cartridge; 8200a - pushing part; 9014 - ink cartridge; 9100 - seal; 9200a . 9200b - engagement part (first engagement part); 9201A . 9201b - engagement opening (second engagement part); 9300 - Ink supply element; 9301 - hard part; 9302 - bag element; 9303 - detection part (irradiated part); 9304 - ink supply part; A - rotation direction of the template cover; B - longitudinal direction of the first and second housing member, longitudinal direction of the housing, longitudinal direction of the ink reservoir member, longitudinal direction of the frame member; C - longitudinal direction of the protective cap; D - ink flow path; E - impurities; F - installation direction of the ink cartridge; G1 - Direction of rotation of the sensor arm (state in which buoyancy force> gravity at counterweight part); G2 - direction of rotation of the sensor arm (state in which lift force <gravity on counterweight part); I - liquid level of the ink; K - ink flow path; L - ambient air inlet path; 01 - axial direction of the ink supply mechanism; 02 - axial direction of the ambient air intake mechanism; P1, P2 - suction pump; Q - center line of the valve seat; R - imaginary outer peripheral line of the valve seat projection part; X - default space; p1 - air pressure inside the ink reservoir chamber after the ink discharge operation (first pressure); p2 - air pressure inside the ink reservoir after the subsequent pressure reducing operation (second pressure); p3 - air pressure in the packaging bag after the packaging space pressure reducing operation (third pressure); t1 - distance between the second feed connection port and the lower side wall of the frame menteils; t2 - distance between the second feed connection hole and the lower side wall of the feed recess part; t3 - first space; t4 - second space; t5 - width of the part to be detected; t6 - diameter of the opening of the ink supply member; t7 - area where ink is stored in the ink storage part; t8 - needle projection section; t9 - Overall projection range of projection and housing projection part; t10 - diameter of the insertion opening of the supply cap (diameter of the ink supply port, distance between two ends of the ink supply port in the horizontal direction); t11 - thickness of the housing projection in the width direction (distance between two ends of the projection in the horizontal direction); t12 - diameter of the communicating opening; t13 - width of the housing projection part; t14 - t15 - width of the housing in the ink cartridge stacking direction; t16 - space between the needles entering the color ink cartridge; t17 - space between the needle entering the black ink cartridge and the adjacent needle; t18 to t22 - Thickness of the housing elements

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• - JP 2001-71522 [0003, 0005]

Claims (8)

Ink jet recording apparatus to which an ink cartridge ( 14 ), comprising: an accommodation chamber ( 50 ) for defining a space for housing the ink cartridge ( 14 ) and to allow the ink cartridge ( 14 ) is mounted in a horizontal direction through a second opening; an extraction element ( 49 ) located on a distal end of the interior of the accommodation chamber ( 50 ) for entering the interior of the ink cartridge ( 14 ) housed in the accommodation 50 ) is arranged to a feed valve element ( 49 ) of the ink cartridge ( 14 ) to a position for opening the first opening and for extracting the in the ink storage chamber ( 100 ) stored ink; a door ( 41 ), which are located on the accommodation 50 ) and configured to be rotated about a lower side of the accommodating portion as an axis of rotation for opening and closing the second opening and closing the second opening when assuming an upright position; and a pressing element ( 61 ), on the door ( 41 ) for pressing a rear surface of the ink cartridge ( 14 ) provided by a spring force in the accommodation chamber ( 50 ), wherein the spring force of the pressing element ( 61 ) is adapted to be greater than the pushing force of a feed pusher ( 670 ) of the ink cartridge ( 14 ) for printing the feed valve element ( 49 ). Ink cartridge ( 14 ) containing an ink storage chamber ( 100 ) for storing the ink provided therein for use in an ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, having an ink supply part ( 120 ) placed on a front surface of the ink cartridge ( 14 ), wherein the front surface is defined in the mounting direction when the ink cartridge ( 14 ) is in the mounting position, and the ink supply part ( 120 ) a second opening for facilitating the entry of an extraction element ( 49 ) an ink jet recording apparatus; a valve mechanism ( 620 ) for opening and closing the second opening of the ink supply part ( 500 ); and a pressed section ( 200a ) located on the rear surface when the ink cartridge ( 14 ) is provided at the rear side in the insertion direction and is configured to be engaged by the pressing member (10). 61 ) is pressed; the valve mechanism ( 620 ): a feed valve element ( 49 ) for opening and closing the second opening of the ink supply part ( 120 ) and a Zuführdrückelement ( 670 ) for pushing the feed valve element ( 49 to a closing direction of the second opening of the ink supply section; wherein the pressing force of the Zuführdrückelements ( 670 ) is adjusted so that it is smaller than the spring force of the pressing element ( 61 ) for pressing the pressed portion. The ink cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the ink supply part ( 120 ) is provided at a lower level than a middle position of the front surface when the ink cartridge ( 14 ) is in the mounting position, and wherein the pressed section ( 200a ) is provided at a level lower than a middle position of the rear surface and higher than a position corresponding to the ink supply part (12). 120 ) in a vertical direction of the back surface when the ink cartridge ( 14 ) is in the mounting position. An ink cartridge according to claim 2 or 3, comprising: an ambient air introduction part ( 130 ) having a third opening provided at a level higher than the ink supply part (11). 120 ) on the front side, for introducing ambient air into the ink storage chamber ( 100 ), when the ink cartridge ( 14 ) is in the mounting position; and an ambient air valve mechanism ( 510 ) for opening and closing the third opening of the ambient air introduction part ( 130 ); the ambient air valve mechanism ( 510 ) an ambient air valve element ( 511 ) for opening and closing the third opening of the ambient air introduction part ( 130 ) and an ambient air pressing element for pressing the ambient air valve element ( 511 ) in the closing direction of the third opening, and wherein a resultant pressing force of the feed valve mechanism ( 670 ) to press. the feed valve element ( 49 ) and the pressing force of the ambient air valve mechanism ( 510 ) for pressing the ambient air valve element ( 511 ) are adapted to be smaller than the spring force of the pressing element ( 61 ) for pressing the pressed section ( 200a ) are. The ink cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the ink supply part ( 120 ) and the ambient air introduction part ( 130 ) are formed so that they project outwardly from the front surface, and wherein the pressing element ( 61 ), when the ink cartridge ( 14 ) is mounted on the ink jet recording apparatus, against the pressed portion (FIG. 200a ) and the protruding ends of the ink supply part ( 120 ) and the ambient air introduction part ( 130 ) against a distal end of the housing chamber ( 50 ) pushes. An ink cartridge according to claim 5, comprising an irradiated portion (Fig. 473 ) located between the ink feed part ( 500 ) and the ambient air introduction part ( 130 ) vorgese on the front surface is configured to be coupled with emitted light from an optical sensor ( 57 ), which is provided in an ink jet recording apparatus, is irradiated when the ink cartridge is mounted on the ink jet recording apparatus, the irradiated portion (FIG. 473 ) in the mounting direction at the rear at the protruding ends of the ink supply part (FIG. 120 ) and the ambient air introduction part ( 130 ) is arranged. The ink cartridge according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the pressed portion (Fig. 200a ) is provided at a level lower than the ambient air introduction part ( 130 ) and higher than the ink supply part ( 120 ) in a vertical direction when the ink cartridge ( 14 ) is in the mounting position. Multifunction device ( 1 ) comprising an ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1 and an ink cartridge according to any one of claims 2 to 7.