DE60201122T2 - Ink cartridge and recorder - Google Patents

Abstract

An ink cartridge is used mounted in a recording device with a hollow needle, a lever, a protruding wall, and an optical sensor. The lever and the optical sensor are located on either side of the hollow needle, but closer to the opening through which the ink cartridge is mounted. The ink cartridge is formed with two grooves open to the front and lower surfaces of the ink cartridge at positions that correspond to the protruding wall and the optical sensor. A light blocking member is disposed in the groove that corresponds to the optical sensor. When the ink cartridge is mounted into the recording device, one groove accommodates and is guided by the protruding wall. The other groove accommodates the sensor so that the light blocking member protrudes into the optical sensor. Also, the front surface of the ink cartridge abuts the lever, which uncovers the hollow needle so that ink supply hole in the front surface of the ink cartridge is inserted with the hollow needle.

Description

The The present invention relates to a recording apparatus and to an ink cartridge stored in the recording apparatus attachable.

ink cartridges are to deliver ink that to recording activities needed is provided to recording devices.

The Japanese Patent 2 768 817 discloses a recording apparatus with an opening section, the one on its front surface is provided. A plurality of ink cartridges different for ejecting colored Ink is in the opening section aligned.

The U.S. Patent 6,142,617 discloses a recording apparatus having an open-topped opening section. Grooves corresponding to a plurality of ink cartridges are in Side edges provided, which face the opening portion. The ink cartridges are inserted from the top by connecting with the grooves be aligned and in the opening section be dropped.

The EP 0 689 936 A discloses a combination of a recording apparatus and an ink cartridge in which the recording apparatus has an ink cartridge mounting portion, a connecting portion that supplies ink to a recording head. A needle connected to the connecting portion is provided for penetrating the ink cartridge when the ink cartridge is inserted into the mounting portion of the recording apparatus.

The US 4,604,633 discloses a combination of a recording device and an ink cartridge. A sensor section is provided for determining the amount of ink in the ink cartridge. The sensor section includes a light emitting section and a light receiving section. A light blocking member is provided, the movement of which is determined by the amount of ink remaining in the ink cartridge.

It is desirable make the recording device compact. It is also desirable that the Ink cartridges also thinner and be smaller and lighter on the recording device attached and removed from it.

It It is an object of the present invention to provide a recording apparatus to provide with a flatter ink cartridge mounting portion so that the Recording device is more compact and the ink cartridges easily can be attached and removed, and an ink cartridge to provide the thinner and is smaller and easily in the ink cartridge mounting portion the recording device can be attached.

To the Solve the contains the above tasks a combination of a recording device and an ink cartridge according to one First aspect of the present invention, the features of the claim 1.

To Claim 5 are the sensor portion and the lever on both sides provided the hollow needle, therefore, the lever and the mechanism for moving the lever and the cover in the recording device be provided without the Sensor section and the circuit board, with the sensor section connected, disturbed become. As a result, you can the ink cartridge and the ink cartridge attachment portion flatter getting produced. The bottom surface of the ink cartridge mounting portion allows one more stable sliding of the ink cartridge, so that the ink cartridge lighter is to be attached. The ink cartridge can exactly match with reliable be attached with the sensor section.

To Claim 6 is the plurality of ink cartridge mounting portions aligned on the same plane, therefore, the ink cartridge mounting portions overall have a flatter configuration.

To Claim 7 is the plurality of ink cartridge mounting portions provided under the sheet transport path, therefore, the ink cartridge mounting portions overall have a flatter configuration.

With In the configuration of claim 8, the ink cartridge may be in the opening portion introduced be without being faulty the ink cartridge is inserted on the head. Also, an ink cartridge prevented from being mounted in the wrong attachment section to become.

When a result of claim 9 encounters when the Ink cartridge in the opening section the ink cartridge mounting portion is inserted, the ink cartridge against the portion of the bottom portion that extends over the opening portion, and slides over the soil surface So that the Cartridge lightly into the opening section introduced can be.

It is desirable that the ink cartridge further includes an upper surface which faces the ceiling surface of the recording apparatus when the ink cartridge in the up attached drawing device. The upper surface extends higher to the ceiling surface at portions corresponding to between the protrusion portions provided on the ceiling surface at horizontal ends of the ink cartridge mounting portion and projecting toward the bottom surface than at portions corresponding to the protrusion portions. With this configuration, the ink cartridge can be inserted into the opening portion without erroneously inserting the ink cartridge on the head.

With The configuration of claim 10 may be the diameter of the ink supply hole made bigger become. Therefore, the diameter of the plug that is in the ink supply hole attached, made bigger become. This makes it easier to use the stopper with the hollow needle to pierce.

With In the configuration of claim 11, the protrusion edge recessed portion starts and the lead to guide the ink cartridge so when the ink cartridge is inserted into the ink cartridge mounting portion that the sensor recess portion reaches the sensor section after the ink cartridge in its Width direction is positioned. Therefore, the sensor recess portion reliable pick up the sensor section.

With The configuration of claim 12, the ink cartridge in a be configured flatter shape. The ink cartridge can be more stable over the ground surface the Tintenpatronenan bring section and thus easy attached and removed.

With In the configuration of claim 13, the ink cartridge may be in the opening portion introduced be without the Ink cartridge is inserted on the head.

With The configuration of claim 14, the ink cartridge in a be configured flatter shape. The ink cartridge can be more stable over the ground surface slide the cartridge mounting portion and thus easily attached and be taken off.

With The configuration of claim 15 may include the ink cartridge in the opening portion introduced be without being faulty the ink cartridge is inserted on the head. A desired individual Ink cartridge can easily between a plurality of ink cartridges attached and removed.

With The configuration of claim 16 may be the diameter of the ink supply hole made bigger become. Therefore, the diameter of the attached in the ink supply hole Made stuffing bigger become. This makes it easier to use the stopper with the hollow needle to pierce. The ink cartridge can be easily attached and removed.

With The configuration of claim 17, the ink cartridge in a be configured flatter shape. The ink cartridge can be more stable over the ground surface of the ink cartridge mounting portion, and thus easily attached and removed. The amount of remaining ink can be detected become.

With In the configuration of claim 18, the ink cartridges can be attached thereto be hindered when a plurality of different types of ink cartridges is used, e.g. for printing different colors of inks, to be mounted in the wrong positions because the sensor section does not correspond to the ink cartridge when an ink cartridge is attached to the wrong position is attached.

With The configuration of claim 19, the ink cartridge in the opening portion introduced be without being faulty the ink cartridge is inserted on the head.

With The configuration of claim 20 may be the amount of the remaining Ink reliable be detected while a flat configuration is achieved at the same time.

With The configuration of claim 1 additionally comprises the ink cartridge flat configuration without the Lichtblockierteil of the ink cartridge protrudes. As a result, the ink cartridge becomes light mounted in or removed from the recording apparatus.

With The configuration of claim 2, the ink cartridge with easy a flat shape can be generated.

With the configuration of claim 3, the ink cartridge with easy a flat shape can be generated.

With The configuration of claim 4 is the light blocking part of the outside so unblocked that it there is no danger of ink leakage. Next, the amount of remaining ink easily detected become.

With the configuration of claim 21, the ink cartridge can be configured in a flatter shape. The ink cartridge is more stable to slide over the bottom surface of the ink cartridge mounting portion and thus easier to attach and detach. The ink cartridge can in the Opening portion are introduced without erroneously introduced the ink cartridge on the head.

With In the configuration of claim 22, the ink cartridge can be more stable over the Ground surface of the Ink cartridge mounting portion slide and thus easier attached and removed.

With The configuration of claim 23 may be a large amount of ink be stored even if the ink cartridge is a flat shape having.

There the ink delivery hole a big one Diameter, the ink supply hole according to claim 24 easily connected to the recording device.

To Claim 25, the rear end portion of the ink cartridge a narrow width, therefore opens a space between the rear end portions of the ink cartridges, when a plurality of ink cartridges are aligned. Rear End portion of a single desired ink cartridge can be easily grabbed and pulled out. If the ink cartridge is mounted in the recording device, the user grasps the rear section leads Insert the ink cartridge into the mounting section and slide the Ink cartridge over the soil surface to align the ink cartridge between the other ink cartridges.

With The configuration of claim 26 when the ink cartridge is in the opening portion of the ink cartridge mounting portion is inserted, the ink cartridge bumps against the section of the soil surface that extends over the opening section extends and slides over the soil surface and can easily into the opening section be introduced.

With the configuration of claim 27 when the ink cartridge is mounted The user can clean the ink cartridge by pressing the rib and pushing the bottom surface over the ground surface remove.

The Above and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be more apparent from reading the following description of embodiment in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

1 Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of a multifunction device to which an ink cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention is attached;

2 a perspective view is the multifunction device of 1 shows, wherein an upper cover of a flat bed recovery device is opened;

3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the multi-function device of 1 shows;

4 a perspective view is the multifunction device of 1 shows, wherein the flatbed recovery device is removed;

5 Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a lower surface of a cover body of the multifunction device;

6 Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing the multifunction device with the cover body opened;

7 Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing the multifunction device with the flatbed recovery unit with the cover body removed;

8th Fig. 12 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a printing machine of the multifunction device;

9 Fig. 11 is a plan view which shows the configuration of an ink cartridge accommodating portion of the multifunction device;

10 Fig. 16 is a perspective view showing the configuration of an ink cartridge mounting portion in the ink cartridge accommodating portion;

11 FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a mechanism provided below the bottom surface of the ink cartridge mounting portion and for protecting needles, locking the state in which the needles are protected, and preventing ink cartridges from falling out of the ink cartridge mounting portion; FIG. is used;

12 Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing an ink cartridge according to the present embodiment from the rear end;

13 Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the ink cartridge according to the present embodiment from the front end;

14 is a perspective view that showing the ink cartridge with its lid separated from the main body;

15 Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing the main body before a flexible film is attached thereto;

16 Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing a detection mechanism provided in a recessed portion of the main body;

17 is an operating diagram illustrating the operation of the detection mechanism of 16 shows;

18 is a view of the main housing from below;

19 Fig. 11 is a plan view showing the ink cartridge of the present embodiment;

20 a view is that of an arrow A of 19 taken;

21 is a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge, taken along the line BB of 19 taken;

22 is a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge, taken along the line CC of 19 taken;

23 is a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge, along the line DD of 19 taken;

24 is a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge, along the line EE of 19 taken;

25 is a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge, along the line FF of 19 taken;

26 is a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge, taken along the line GG of 19 taken;

27 is a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge, taken along the line HH of 19 taken;

28 is a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge, along the line II of 19 taken;

29 is a view showing the relationship between the bulging portions formed on partition walls of the ink cartridge mounting portion, the height of the ink cartridge and a curved convex wall formed on the ceiling surface of the ink cartridge mounting portion, when the ink cartridge is inserted in a mounting portion opening;

30 Fig. 11 is a plan view showing a state in which a pull-out locking protrusion portion is retreated from an ink cartridge front surface wall when the ink cartridge is inserted into a mounting portion opening of the ink cartridge mounting portion;

31 a cross-sectional view of in 30 shown state is;

32 Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a needle protection lock member releases the locked state of a needle protection plate by a lock release portion which hits a needle protection lock release lever when a guide groove of the ink cartridge is engaged with a guide projection wall and the ink cartridge is pushed;

33 Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a hollow ink introduction needle is inserted into an ink supply hole after the front surface of the ink cartridge presses the needle protection plate and the needle protection plate is retracted after the lock of the needle protection plate is released;

34 Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the front surface of the ink cartridge abuts against a rubber cap of an over-pressure applying member in connection with the engagement of a pull-out holding lock projection portion in a pull-out holding latch recess portion after the hollow ink introduction needle is inserted into an ink supply hole;

35 a top view of the in 34 shown state is;

36 Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the ink cartridge in a vacuum packing state;

37 (a) FIG. 12 is a side view showing processes of a method of applying a flexible film according to the present embodiment to an opening peripheral portion; FIG.

37 (b) Fig. 12 is a side view showing processes of a method of producing the baggy shape in the flexible film;

38 Fig. 13 is a view showing a modification of the process of creating the baggy shape in the flexible film;

39 (a) Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing processes of fitting a rubber stopper with a backflow prevention valve completely into an ink supply hole and a rubber stopper for discharging ink partially into an ink ejection hole and removing air from an ink accommodating portion and ejecting ink;

39 (b) a plug tip portion of the ink rubber plug for ejecting ink fitted in the edge of the ink ejection hole;

40 Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a positional relationship between an edge (ink receiving peripheral portion) of a spherical surface shape on the outside of a curved portion of the lid, the inner edge of the opening peripheral portion and the flexible film;

41 Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing an ink cartridge according to a first modification of the embodiment, wherein a guide groove and a sensor receiving groove are open to the side walls;

42 FIG. 12 is a plan view showing a recording apparatus for use with the ink cartridge of FIG 41 wherein the position of the needle protection lock release lever in the ink cartridge attachment portion is changed in accordance with the modified ink cartridge;

43 (a) Fig. 10 is a plan view showing an ink cartridge according to a second modification of the embodiment;

43 (b) is a perspective view of the ink cartridge of 43 (a) shows;

44 (a) Fig. 10 is a plan view showing an ink cartridge according to a third modification of the embodiment;

44 (b) is a perspective view of the ink cartridge of 44 (a) shows;

45 (a) Fig. 11 is a plan view showing an ink cartridge according to a fourth modification of the embodiment;

45 (b) is a perspective view of the ink cartridge of 45 (a) shows;

46 (a) Fig. 11 is a plan view showing an ink cartridge according to a fifth modification of the embodiment;

46 (b) is a perspective view of the ink cartridge of 46 (a) shows;

47 (a) Fig. 10 is a plan view showing an ink cartridge according to a sixth modification of the embodiment;

47 (b) a side view is showing the ink cartridge of 47 (a) shows;

48 (a) Fig. 10 is a plan view showing an ink cartridge according to a seventh modification of the embodiment;

48 (b) a side view is showing the ink cartridge of 48 (a) shows;

49 (a) Fig. 11 is a plan view showing an ink cartridge according to an eighth modification of the embodiment;

49 (b) a side view is showing the ink cartridge of 49 (a) shows;

50 (a) Fig. 11 is a plan view showing an ink cartridge according to a ninth modification of the embodiment;

50 (b) a side view is showing the ink cartridge of 50 (a) shows;

51 (a) Fig. 10 is a plan view showing an ink cartridge according to a tenth modification of the embodiment;

51 (b) a side view is showing the ink cartridge of 51 (a) shows;

52 (a) Fig. 10 is a plan view showing an ink cartridge according to an eleventh modification of the embodiment;

52 (b) a side view is showing the ink cartridge of 52 (a) shows;

53 (a) Fig. 10 is a plan view showing an ink cartridge according to a twelfth modification of the embodiment;

53 (b) a side view is showing the ink cartridge of 53 (a) shows.

Next is an ink cartridge 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention and a multi-function device 1 holding the ink cartridge 200 used, with reference to 1 to 40 described.

First, the multi-function device 1 holding the ink cartridge 200 used, with reference to 1 to 11 described. 1 shows the multi-function device 1 according to the present embodiment. The multi-function device 1 contains a scanner function, a copy function and a facsimile function. The multifunction device 1 has a slim and compact configuration including a recovery unit 10 and an ink-jet recording unit 20 on. The inkjet recording unit 20 is on the recovery unit 10 intended. A control panel 12 is on the recovery unit 10 intended. The inkjet recording unit 20 is with a sheet delivery trough 22 Mistake. The multi-function device 1 is with a phone 24 and an antenna 26 Mistake. The telephone 24 can with a cordless handset (not shown) a cordless transmission using the antenna 26 carry out. The telephone 24 can be connected to a public telephone circuit and serve as a transmission point for the cordless handset (not shown) while the cordless handset is used for a telephone call.

It should be noted that a power source, a main substrate, an NCU substrate, and two media plate devices 28 , in the 7 are shown in the ink jet recording unit 20 in addition to the recording mechanisms for performing the recording operations. The main substrate serves to control the operations of the multifunction device 1 , The NCU substrate is used for controlling connection to the public telephone circuit for the facsimile function and for the telephone function. Two mediaslots 29 are on the front surface of the ink jet recording unit 20 intended. By inserting an external storage medium into one of the mediaslots 29 The external medium can be freely detachable in the corresponding one of the media plate devices 28 be attached. The media plate devices 28 Data such as data taken by a digital camera is obtained from an external storage medium, whereupon the data is used for printing and the like.

As in 2 is the recovery unit 10 a flat head recovery unit and includes a recovery unit housing 14 , The recovery unit housing 14 contains a document glass 15 on which a document to be scanned is placed. A contact image sensor 16 is below the document glass 15 intended. A configuration is provided for generating scanning motions of the contact image sensor 16 , A top cover 17 for covering the upper surface of the document glass 15 is provided so that they are in relation to the recovery unit housing 14 can be opened and closed.

The control panel 12 is on the upper surface of the front of the recovery unit housing 14 intended. An operator issues commands for the operations such as copying, facsimile, or scanner operation of the multifunction device 1 through the control panel 12 one.

It should be noted that an attaching means (not shown) is provided so that the flat head recovery unit 10 from the inkjet recording unit 20 can be separated.

As in 3 is shown contains the ink jet recording unit 20 that under the recovery unit 10 is a case 30 , The sheet delivery trough 22 stands from the inside of the case 30 to the rear portion of the housing 30 in front. A sheet delivery roll 23 is in the sheet delivery trough 22 so provided that a sheet can be delivered at the time. A printer machine 60 is provided as a recording portion at a position where sheets from the sheet supply tray 22 be received. A sheet discharge section D is at the front of the printer engine 60 intended. Leaves on which through the printer machine 60 has been recorded are output from the sheet discharge section D. It should be noted that a sheet dispensing trough 34 freely detachably attached to the sheet dispensing section D. The sheet dispensing trough 34 serves as a section of a sheet transport path. An ink cartridge holding section P into which the ink cartridges 200 ( 12 ) is disposed between the sheet discharge section D and the base of the housing 30 intended. In this way, the ink cartridge holding portion P is lower in position than that of the printer engine 60 intended.

As in 4 is shown is the housing 30 from above through a cover 40 covered. The cover 40 has a machine cover section 42 and a cartridge holding cover section 44 on. The machine cover section 42 covers the printer engine 60 from above. The cartridge holding cover section 44 is provided below the sheet discharge portion D and covers the ink cartridge holding portion P from above. The front surface of the machine cover section 42 is for forming a sheet discharge opening 46 open. The cartridge holding cover section 44 is positioned under the pathway, along the leaves, through which the printer engine 60 has been recorded, that is, below the sheet delivery tray 34 ,

As in 3 is shown, the cartridge holding cover portion functions 44 as a ceiling surface of the ink cartridge holding portion P. As will be described later, the ink cartridge holding portion P is between the cartridge holding cover portion 44 and a cartridge holding portion base wall 32 so formed that the ink cartridges 200 to the back of the ink cartridge holding portion P from a front surface opening portion O can be inserted. A front surface cover 50 is for selective covering ( 4 ) and open ( 6 ) of the front surface opening portion O is provided. The front surface cover 50 contains an upper surface wall 52 and a front surface wall 54 , When the front surface cover 50 is closed as in 4 is shown, the upper surface wall 52 on the same imaginary plane as the cartridge holding cover section 44 aligned, and the front surface wall 54 extends vertically down from the upper surface wall 52 ,

As in 5 are four curved protruding ribs 47 on the lower surface of the cartridge holding cover portion 44 educated. The curve shape of the curved protruding ribs 47 is formed to match the shape of the top surface of the four ink cartridges 200 follows, which are mounted in the ink cartridge holding portion P. Also is a pair of notches 48 in the left and right ends of the cartridge holding cover portion 44 educated.

As in 6 shown is a pair of arms 56 on the front surface cover 50 are provided by the notches 48 taken when the front surface cover 50 is opened. As will be described later, there are five partitions 110 on the base wall 32 aligned in the ink cartridge holding portion P. A pivot shaft 57 stands from the two end position dividers 110 in front. The pair of arms 56 the front surface cover 50 is pivotable on the pivot shaft 57 Mounted so that the user has the front surface cover 50 open and close freely.

Seven vertical ribs 58 are on the back side of the front surface cover 50 formed so that they extend vertically when the cover 50 closed is. The vertical ribs 58 extend from the front surface wall 54 the front surface cover 50 to a section of the upper surface wall 52 , Four of the seven vertical ribs 58 are formed at positions facing the center in the width direction of the attached ink cartridges 200 correspond. Consequently, if the front surface cover 50 from the in 6 shown open state is closed, press the corresponding vertical ribs 58 automatically every partially inserted ink cartridge 200 deep into the ink cartridge holding section P, leaving the ink cartridges 200 be introduced exactly, even if one of the ink cartridges 200 incompletely inserted into the ink cartridge holding portion P. Although not shown in the drawings, a plurality of lateral ribs are also on the back surface of the front surface cover 50 educated. The lateral ribs extend in the horizontal direction in the sections with the seven vertical ribs 58 and serve to reinforce the seven vertical ribs 58 ,

The cartridge holding section base wall 32 extends further forward than the cartridge hold cover portion 44 to guide the ink cartridges 200 in the front surface opening portion O. The portion of the cartridge holding portion base wall 32 extending further forward than the cartridge holding cover section 44 extends, is with depressions 102 formed at positions that the partitions 110 correspond. The wells 102 have either a quarter or semicircular shape when viewed from above. The wells 102 have a narrower width than gripping sections 202 the ink cartridges 200 accommodated in the ink cartridge holding portion P, so that the user is more comfortable with the ink cartridges 200 which are received in the ink cartridge holding portion P in which he or she uses the fingers.

7 shows the multi-function device 1 in which the cover 40 and the front surface cover 50 from the inkjet recording unit 20 are removed. As in 7 can be seen, the housing has 30 an open upper side, and the front surface opening portion O of the ink cartridge holding portion P is the front of the housing 30 , The two media plate devices 28 are provided at positions that correspond to the mediaslots 29 correspond. Also is a positive pressure pump 36 to be described later, behind the media plate devices 28 intended.

A black (K) ink cartridge attachment portion Sk, a cyan (C) ink cartridge attachment portion Sc, a yellow (Y) ink cartridge attachment portion Sy and a magenta (M) ink cartridge attachment portion Sm are aligned in the ink cartridge holding portion P in the left-right direction. The black (K) ink cartridge attachment portion Sk is for mounting a black (K) ink cartridge 200k, the cyan (C) ink cartridge attachment portion Sc is for mounting a cyan (C) ink cartridge 200c, the yellow (Y) ink The ink cartridge mounting portion Sy is for mounting a yellow (Y) ink cartridge 200y, and the magenta (M) ink cartridge mounting portion Sm is for mounting a magenta (M) ink cartridge 200m.

The black (K) ink cartridge 200k, the cyan (C) ink cartridge 200c, the yellow (Y) ink cartridge 200y, and the magenta (M) ink cartridge 200m are hereinafter referred to collectively as the ink cartridges 200 designated. Further, the black (K) ink cartridge attachment portion Sk, the cyan (C) ink cartridge attachment portion Sc, the yellow (Y) ink cartridge attachment portion Sy and the magenta (M) ink cartridge attachment portion Sm are collectively referred to as the ink cartridge attachment portions S hereinafter.

The ink cartridge holding portion P is constructed of the ink cartridge mounting portions S which are in the left-right direction on the same imaginary plane (on the base wall 32 ) are aligned under the ceiling plate that holds the cartridge holding cover section 44 the cover 40 represents, and below the leaf delivery tray 34 serving as a portion of a sheet transport path. As a result, the ink cartridge holding portion P has a generally flat and substantially parallelepiped shape. Consequently, the overall configuration of the multi-function device 1 be made thin and compact.

Ink delivery mechanisms 80 , a positive pressure applying mechanism 90 and cartridge attachment mechanisms 100 are in the ink cartridge mounting sections 5 intended. Each cartridge attachment mechanism 100 Used to attach the appropriate ink cartridges 200 as will be described later. The overpressure application mechanism 90 serves to apply an overpressure from the overpressure pump 36 to the ink in the attached ink cartridges. The ink delivery mechanisms 80 serve to provide ink in the attached ink cartridges 200 to the printer engine 60 , Ink supply tubes T for supplying ink to the printer engine 60 range from ink delivery mechanisms 80 , That is, a black (K) ink tube Tk extends from the black (K) ink cartridge mounting portion Sk, a cyan (C) ink supply tube Tc extends from the cyan (C) ink cartridge mounting portion Sc, a yellow (Y) ink supply tube Ty extends from the yellow (Y) ink cartridge mounting portion Sy, and a magenta (M) ink supply tube Tm extending from the magenta (M) ink cartridge mounting portion Sm. The black (K) ink supply tube Tk, the cyan (C) ink supply tube Tc, the yellow (Y) ink supply tube Ty and the magenta (M) ink supply tube Tm are collectively referred to as the ink supply tubes T hereinafter.

Although not shown in the drawings, a waste ink absorbing material is on the housing 30 behind the ink cartridge holding section P and below the printer engine 60 intended. The printer engine 60 contains a machine housing 62 , Although not shown in the drawings, a sheet transport slot is in the rear surface of the machine housing 62 educated. The sheet transport slot serves to receive sheets derived from the sheet delivery pressure 22 to be delivered. A machine-side sheet dispensing slot 64 is in the front surface of the machine housing 62 educated. The machine side sheet dispensing slot 64 Used for outputting sheets by the printer engine 60 is recorded to the sheet discharge section D. The sheet transport path is further in the machine housing 62 from the sheet transporting slot to the machine side sheet delivery slot 64 Are defined. Printed sheets are discharged onto the sheet discharge section D since the machine side sheet discharge slot 64 the sheet dispensing opening 46 is facing ( 4 ) while the cover 40 the housing 30 covers. A KC tube opening 66 and a YM tube opening 68 are in the front surface of the machine housing 62 educated. The KC tube opening 66 is for inserting the black (K) ink supply tube Tk and the cyan (C) ink supply tube Tc into the printer engine 60 , The YM tube opening 68 is for introducing the yellow (Y) ink supply tube Ty and the magenta (M) ink supply tube Tm into the printer engine 60 , Although not shown in the drawings, a cable opening for inserting cables connected to the main circuit board is also in the printer engine 60 in the front surface of the machine housing 62 educated.

As in 8th is shown is a sheet transport mechanism 76 to the inside of the machine housing 62 intended. The sheet transport mechanism 76 is formed of a plurality of pairs of rollers, the leaves of the sheet delivery roller 23 along the sheet transport path to the machine side sheet discharge slot 64 transport. A carriage scanning shaft 72 extends over and in a direction that intersects the sheet transport direction. A sleigh 74 is on the sled scan wave 72 provided so as to provide a reciprocating motion of the carriage scanning shaft 72 following. A piezoelectric inkjet head 70 is on the lower surface of the carriage 74 appropriate. Although not shown in the drawings, a group of nozzles is formed for each of the plurality of ink colors described above. Each nozzle points down so that the ink is ejected down onto the recording sheet. The four ink supply tubes T (Tk, Tc, Ty, Tm) and cables are connected to the respective nozzle groups for supplying the four colors of inks (black, cyan, yellow and magenta) and driving signals to the piezoelectric ink-jet head 70 connected. The sled 74 gropes the carriage scanning shaft 72 and the piezoelectric ink jet head 70 records in tapes with a width equal to the width of the nozzle groups. Each time a scan is completed, the sheet transport mechanism slides 76 the sheet by a distance corresponding to the width of the recording tape. A cleaning unit 78 is provided at a position above the carriage scanning shaft 72 and which is off the sheet transport path. Although not shown in the drawings, the cleaning unit contains 78 a well-known cap and pump. In certain situations, as if the nozzles of the piezoelectric inkjet head 70 become plugged, the piezoelectric ink-jet head becomes 70 to a position opposite to the cleaning unit 78 and a cleaning operation is performed in which the cap covers the nozzles and the pump sucks ink from the nozzles through the cap.

Only the piezoelectric inkjet head 70 is on the sled 74 appropriate. Ink from the ink cartridges 200 which are received in the ink cartridge holding portion P becomes the piezoelectric ink-jet head 70 delivered through the tubes T. There is also a printhead difference between the piezoelectric ink-jet head 70 and the ink cartridges 200 developed since the piezoelectric ink-jet head 70 is provided vertically above the ink cartridge holding portion P. Therefore, a negative pressure, that is, a back pressure acts on the ink in the nozzles of the piezoelectric ink-jet head 70 which prevents ink (not shown) from the nozzles in the piezoelectric ink-jet head 70 drips.

As in 9 The ink delivery mechanisms have shown 80 , the overpressure application mechanism 90 and the cartridge attachment mechanisms 100 substantially the same configuration for each of the four ink cartridge mounting portions S.

As in 9 and 10 is shown, each of the ink delivery mechanisms 80 from a buffer tank 84 holding a hollow inking needle 82 connected, and the ink supply tube T built. The hollow ink introduction needle 82 extends to the front surface opening portion O. The hollow needle 82 is hollow and formed on the sides of its pointed end with a pair of holes connected to the interior in the manner of a well-known hollow needle. If an ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the corresponding ink cartridge mounting portion S, becomes the hollow ink introduction needle 82 in the ink cartridge 200 so introduced that ink to the buffer tank 84 is delivered. The buffer tank 84 Temporarily holding ink from the hollow ink delivery needle 82 is delivered and filters foreign objects from the ink. Ink that has been filtered in this manner then becomes the piezoelectric ink-jet head 70 supplied through the corresponding ink supply tube T.

The overpressure application mechanism 90 Used to apply an excess air pressure to the ink in the ink cartridges 200 , The overpressure application mechanism 90 is from overpressure application parts 91 built with the pressure pump 36 are connected. It should be noted that a total of four overpressure application parts 91 provided for the four ink cartridge mounting portions S, directly to the positive pressure pump 36 by overpressure application tubes 92 are connected. There is a check valve (not shown) between the positive pressure pump 36 and the overpressure application tube 92 , The drive of the overpressure pump 36 forces airflow at substantially the same pressure from the four overpressure application parts 92 to the ink cartridges 200 through the overpressure application tubes 92 ,

As in 10 is shown is each of the overpressure application parts 91 from an annular resilient sealing member 93 and a supporting part 96 produced. The supporting part 96 carries the annular resilient sealing member 93 while a spring 94 the annular resilient sealing member 93 to the front surface opening portion O presses. The annular resilient sealing member 93 contains a centrally located overpressure hole 98 in fluid communication with the overpressure application tubes 92 from the overpressure pump 36 , The overpressure hole 98 is facing the front surface opening portion O.

The cartridge attachment mechanisms 100 contain the partitions 110 , the wells 102 on the cartridge holding section base wall 32 , Guide projection walls 120 , Needle protection plates 130 , Locking parts 180 ( 11 ) of the needle protection plates 130 , Lock release operation ribs 150 , Pull-out locking tabs 160 and residual ink detection photosensors 170 ,

The partitions 110 are mounted on both sides of each ink cartridge mounting portion S so as to be separated from the cartridge holding portion base wall 32 projecting upward, and so as to extend to the front surface opening portion O in the ink cartridge holding portion P. The partitions 110 define the width of the ink cartridge mounting portions S. It should be noted that the partitions 110 , the are positioned between adjacent ink cartridge mounting portions S, also serve to divide the adjacent ink cartridge mounting portions S.

The width of each of the ink cartridge attachment portions S is the size corresponding to the width of the corresponding ink cartridge 200 is appropriate, so that the corresponding ink cartridge 200 can be placed in it. As will be described later, the widths of the cyan (C) ink cartridge are 200c , the yellow (Y) ink cartridge 200y and the magenta (M) ink cartridge 200m equivalent to. The width of the black (K) ink cartridge 200k is larger than the width of the cyan (C) ink cartridge 200c , the yellow (Y) ink cartridge 200y and the magenta (M) ink cartridge 200m because the black ink is used more frequently during printing, leaving the black (K) ink cartridge 200k provided with a larger internal capacity. For this reason, the widths of the cyan (C) ink cartridge attachment portion Sc, the yellow (Y) ink cartridge attachment portion Sy and the magenta (M) ink cartridge attachment portion Sm are equivalent, and the width of the black (K) ink cartridge attachment portion Sk is larger than the width of the other ink cartridge attachment portions.

The cartridge holding section base wall 32 the ink cartridge mounting portions S extends from the hollow needle 82 further forward than the front surface opening portion O. Since the ceiling surface, that is, the cartridge holding cover portion 44 has a length to the position of the front surface opening portion O, is the portion of the Pa tronenhalteabschnittsbasiswand 32 extending further forward than the cartridge-holding section base wall 32 extends, open from the top, while the front surface cover 50 is in an open condition and is used to guide the ink cartridges 200 to the front surface opening portion O while the ink cartridges 200 be attached.

All cartridge attachment mechanisms 100 have substantially the same configuration, so that the configuration of a representative cartridge mounting mechanism 100 with reference to 10 for ease of explanation. The needle guard plate 130 , the rest ink capturing photo sensor 170 , the lock release operation rib 150 and the pull-out latching projection 160 are in this order from the side of the hollow ink introduction needle 82 to the front of the hollow ink introduction needle 82 with respect to the longitudinally extending axis of the hollow ink introduction needle 82 positioned. The guide projection wall 120 , the lock release operation rib 150 and the residual ink detection photosensor 170 close the longitudinally extending axis of the hollow ink introduction needle 82 in which the guide protrusion wall 120 and the lock release operation rib 150 are arranged on one side in the width direction and the residual ink detection photosensor 170 on the other side is arranged in the width direction. The guide projection wall 120 extends in the forward-backward direction. The lock release operation rib 150 is between the front end and the rear end of the guide protrusion wall 120 positioned in the forward-backward direction. The needle guard plate 130 is between the front end and the rear end of the guide protrusion wall 120 arranged in the front-rear direction and further to the rear than the lock release operation rib 150 po sitioned. The waste ink detection photo sensor 170 is also between the front end and the deep end of the guide protrusion walls 120 is disposed in the front-rear direction and is deeper therein than the lock release operation rib 150 positioned.

Referring to 9 , the guide projection wall 120 and the next partition 110 are separated by the same distance La in the left-right direction in all the cartridge mounting portions Sc, Sy, Sm and Sk. Next are the guide projection wall 120 and the residual ink detection photosensor 170 by the same distance Lb1 in the cyan (C) ink cartridge attachment portion Sc, the yellow (Y) ink cartridge attachment portion Sy, and the magenta (M) ink cartridge portion in the left-right direction. The guide projection wall 120 and the residual ink detection photosensor 170 However, they are separated by a larger distance Lb2 in the black (K) ink cartridge mounting portion Sk than the guide sensor pitch Lb1 for the other ink cartridge mounting portions.

Returning to 6 , the partitions 110 extend upwardly from the cartridge holding portion base wall 32 to the lower surface of the cover 40 , How clearer in 10 are shown are three enlarged sections 112 at the upper portion of each partition 110 educated. As can be seen in the figure, the enlarged sections stand 112 from the cartridge holding cover portion 44 to the cartridge holding portion base wall 32 in front. The enlarged sections 112 Regulate the vertical tilt and position of the ink cartridge after the ink cartridge 200 is introduced. The enlarged section 112 on the side of the front surface opening portion O of each partition wall 110 is at the bottom with a chamfering shape for facilitating the insertion of the ink cartridge formed. The enlarged section 112 at the forward-backward center of each partition 110 is formed, contains a spring 114 to push the ink cartridge 200 down and regulate the vertical movement of the inserted ink cartridge 200 ,

In that again the representative example of 10 is taken, the guide projection wall 120 stands up from the cartridge holding section base wall 32 at a position adjacent to the lock release operation rib 150 in front. The distance La between the guide projection walls 120 and the adjacent partitions 110 is sufficiently smaller than the thickness of the finger of a middle user to prevent the user from contacting the lock release operation rib 150 comes and the locked state of the needle guard plates 130 releases. Also, the guide protrusion wall serves 120 for guiding the ink cartridge 200 which is inserted from the front surface opening portion O side to the ink cartridge mounting portions S in the front-rear direction while the ink cartridge 200 is positioned in the left-right direction. The guide projection wall 120 is formed at its front and rear ends thicker than at the center, so that the guide projection wall 120 the ink cartridge 200 essentially contacted at two points corresponding to the thick sections. The positioning in the left-right direction can be performed accurately. It should be noted that the guiding and positioning of the ink cartridge 200 also through the partitions 110 can be performed or by the cooperative action of the partitions 110 and the guide protrusion wall 120 could be carried out.

The waste ink detection photo sensor 170 is from an emission section for infrared light 172 and a receiving portion for infrared light 174 and serves to detect the amount of residual ink in the ink cartridge 200 , The waste ink detection photo sensor 170 is connected to a printed circuit board which underlies the cartridge holding section base wall 32 is provided. The waste ink detection photo sensor 170 is above the cartridge holding portion base wall 32 from the circuit board in front. Sensor protection devices 176 Protecting the emission section for infrared light 172 and the receiving portion for infrared light 174 in front of the ink cartridge 200 serve when the ink cartridge 200 are standing by the cartridge holding section base wall 32 from the sides of the emission section for infrared light 172 and the receiving portion for infrared light 174 which are closer to the front surface opening portion O. The sensor protection devices 176 are formed with rounded surfaces at the portions of their facing surfaces that are closest to the front surface opening portion O.

The needle guard plate 130 is at the side of the front surface opening portion O of the hollow ink introduction needle 82 positioned, leaving a space between itself and the hollow ink-introducing needle 82 is formed. The needle guard plate 130 serves to cover the tip of the hollow ink introduction needle 82 from the side opposite to the front surface opening portion O. 11 shows a configuration that relates to the needle guard plate 130 , the lock release operation rib 150 and the pull-out latching projection 160 of the representative cartridge attachment mechanism 100 from 10 refers. The needle guard plate 130 becomes below the cartridge holding section base wall 32 stored so that they are around a Nadelschutzschwenkwelle 132 is pivotable, which intersects the forward-backward direction. The needle guard plate 130 is movable between a Abdeckposition and a release position. In the covering position is the needle guard plate 130 from an opening 104 Located in the cartridge holder section base wall 32 formed above the cartridge holding portion base wall 32 in front. In the release position is the needle guard plate 130 inside the opening 104 withdrawn. The needle guard plate 130 becomes constant by a spring 183 pressed to the covering position. The locking part 180 is pivotable around a shaft 184 below the cartridge holding section base wall 32 stored. A press plate 140 rises from one end of the locking part 180 at. The operation of the spring 182 moves the locking part 180 in one direction to move the press plate 140 in opposition to a side surface of the hollow ink introduction needle 82 the needle guard plate 130 , The locking part 180 integrally incorporates the lock release actuation rib 150 between the wave 184 and press plate 140 , The compressive force of the spring 182 pushes the lock release operation rib 150 from an opening 106 Located in the cartridge holder section base wall 32 is formed, between the guide projection walls 120 and the partitions 110 in front.

If in this condition the ink cartridge 200 is introduced from the front surface opening portion O, as will be described later, first presses the lower side of the ink cartridge 200 the lock release operation rib 150 so that the locking part 180 pivots and the press plate 140 down from the back surface of the needle guard plate 130 is withdrawn. If the ink cartridge 200 is further moved in the front-back direction of the attachment portion S, presses the front surface of the ink cartridge 200 the needle guard plate 130 , As ever but the press plate 140 under the back surface of the needle guard plate 130 has been withdrawn, the needle guard plate 130 not blocked on pivoting and thus falls into the opening 104 so that the ink cartridge 200 with the hollow ink introduction needle 82 can be connected.

In the reverse operation, that is, for removing the ink cartridge from the ink cartridge mounting portion S, the spring moves 183 the needle guard plate 130 upright at the position containing the hollow ink introduction needle 82 covered. Then the bottom surface of the ink cartridge becomes 200 from the lock release operation ribs 150 separated, and the spring 182 leads the press plate 140 back to the back surface of the needle guard plate 130 ,

When the lock release operation rib 150 is not pressed down, abuts the rear surface of the needle guard plate 130 against the press plate 140 so that the hollow ink introduction needle 82 is not exposed to the front surface portion O, even if an external force on the side of the front surface opening portion O of the needle protection plate 130 is exercised.

A leak prevention lock part 190 is to exert a resistance to the compressive force by the spring 94 the overpressure application parts 91 provided that the attached ink cartridge 200 in a direction to pull out of the ink cartridge mounting portion S suppressed. The leak prevention lock part 190 contains the pull-out latch tab 160 pointing to above the cartridge-holding section base wall 32 from an opening 108 may project in the cartridge holding section base wall 32 is formed. The leak prevention lock part 190 is pivotable around a shaft 192 under the cartridge holding section base wall 32 stored. The leak prevention lock part 190 gets up through the spring 182 pressed. Usually the lead is 160 upwards above the cartridge holding portion base wall 32 from the opening 108 and fits in a leak prevention latch recess 246 ( 18 ), which will be described later, of the ink cartridges 200 who is at her mounting position. However, as will be described later, when the ink cartridge 200 against the lead 160 by force, which is generated when the ink cartridge 200 is attached or released, the leakage prevention lock member pivots 190 around the shaft 192 so that the lead 160 is withdrawn down and the ink cartridge 200 attached or removed.

The cyan, yellow, magenta and black ink cartridges 200 In the present embodiment, all those in 12 shown shape. That is, they are all from a main body 230 and a lid 210 made of substantially transparent resin. Overall, the ink cartridge points 200 a flat and substantially parallelepiped shape. It should be noted that the cyan, yellow and magenta ink cartridges 200 (Color ink cartridges) are substantially the same size. The black ink cartridge 200 essentially has the same length as the color ink cartridges 200 on. However, the width of the black ink cartridge is wider than that of the color ink cartridges.

Next, an explanation will be given for the ink cartridges 200 the present embodiment, while on the in 12 to 39 shown representative example. The main body 230 contains flat sidewalls 232 on both sides in the left-right direction. The distance between the side walls 232 that is, the width of the main body 230 corresponds to the distance between the partitions 110 provided on both sides of the ink cartridge mounting portion S.

The lid 210 has a substantially flat shape with a spherically outwardly curved portion 212 which is curved outward in a spherical shape provided at its substantially central portion. A flat shaped protrusion section 213 is from a raised front end of the lid 210 formed with the exception of the left and right ends. A flat section 214 is on the left and right sides of the projecting portion 213 and around the spherically outwardly curved section 212 of the lid 210 educated. The left and right of the protrusion section 213 and the spherically outwardly curved portion 212 positioned section of the flat section 214 extends in the longitudinal direction (front-back) of the ink cartridges 200 , If the ink cartridge 200 is inserted into the ink cartridge mounting portion S, the front-rear extending portion of the flat portion slides 214 against the spring 114 opposite the underside of the enlarged sections 112 , The curved section 212 and the protrusion portion 213 protrude and are closer to in the direction of the lower surface of the cartridge holding cover portion 44 provided, that is, the ceiling surface, as the lower surfaces of the enlarged portions 112 on both sides of the curved section 212 and the protrusion portion 213 are positioned. The curved section 212 and the protrusion portion 213 extend higher to the cartridge holding cover portion 44 as the flat section 214 , If the ink cartridge 20 is mounted in the recording device, the curved regulate section 212 and the protrusion portion 213 the height position of the ink cartridge 200 if the ink cartridge 200 is introduced through the front surface opening portion O.

The ink cartridge 200 is sufficiently longer than the length in the front-rear direction of the cartridge holding cover portion 44 formed so that the rear end portion of the cartridge holding cover portion 44 protrudes when the ink cartridge 200 is in an attached state in the attachment portion S. The rear end portion of the ink cartridge 200 is a gripping section 202 which is narrower in width than the other areas. As in 6 can be a desired single ink cartridge 200 Easily gripped and taken out when a plurality of ink cartridges 200 are received in the ink cartridge holding portion P. In contrast, an ink cartridge 200 be gripped and easily attached, even if an ink cartridge 200 adjacent thereto is received in the ink cartridge holding portion P. A rib 217 is near the back end of the lid 210 formed so as to extend linearly in the left-right direction. Thus, the user can hook his or her finger on the rib 217 and pulling the ink cartridge 200 forward the ink cartridge 200 from the ink cartridge holding section P using a single finger.

As in 13 is shown is a projection portion 235 on a front surface wall 234 of the main housing 230 educated. The protrusion section 235 is at the left-right central area of the front surface wall 234 upwards. An ink delivery hole 260 is in the substantially center of the front surface wall 234 educated. The ink delivery hole 260 is a hole for supplying ink from an ink receiving portion 300 ( 14 ), which is in the main body 230 is provided to the outside. An ink delivery rubber stopper 262 ( 39 (a) ) is press-fitted in the ink supply hole 260 appropriate. An ink injection hole 270 is next to the ink delivery hole 260 open. An ink injection rubber stopper 272 ( 39 (a) ) is press-fitted in the ink injection hole 270 appropriate. Next is an atmosphere connection hole 280 also in the front surface wall 234 open. The atmosphere connection hole 280 is a long and thin hole of small diameter in fluid communication with the overpressure hole 98 the overpressure application parts 91 Stands when the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S. Next are a guide groove 236 and a sensor receiving groove 240 in the front surface wall 234 and across the bottom wall of the main housing 230 formed so that they are open to the front surface and lower surface. The guide groove 236 is a recessed portion for engagement with the guide projection wall 120 if the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S. A lock release section 238 is through the lower rear surface of the ink cartridge 200 defined between the guide groove 236 and the near sidewall 232 is. The guide groove 236 and the lock release section 238 are near the sections of the ink cartridge 200 provided the enlarged sections 112 correspond to the recording device. The lock release section 238 is for pressing the lock release operation rib 150 if the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S. The sensor receiving groove 240 is a recessed portion in an outline of the outer shape of the ink cartridge 200 and takes the residual ink detection photo sensor 170 on when the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S.

As in 14 is shown contains the main body 230 an ink receiving portion 300 on its inside and is open on its upper side. Described in detail, the main body 230 Contains the front surface wall 234 , the side walls 232 and a back surface wall 237 , The side walls 232 are on a left and right side of the main body 230 , The side walls 232 are with the front surface wall 234 and the back surface wall 237 connected. The gripping sections 202 are on the back of the back surface wall 237 educated. The ink receiving section 300 is from the front surface wall 234 , the side walls 232 and the back surface wall 237 surround. The ink receiving section 300 is with a flexible film 302 at an ink holding portion 310 ( 15 ), which will be described later. The ink holding section 310 is on the inside of the main body 230 educated. The flexible film 302 goes to the opening peripheral edge 312 of the ink holding section 310 welded. The ink gets between the flexible film 302 and the ink holding section 310 held. While the ink cartridge 200 filled with ink, the flexible film expands 302 upwards into a curved surface. The ink delivery hole 260 and the ink injection hole 270 are in fluid communication with the inside of the ink receiving portion 300 , Specifically described that ink delivery hole 260 is in fluid communication with the ink receiving portion 300 by a small diameter ink delivery connection pathway 268 , The ink injection hole 270 is in fluid communication with the ink receiving portion 300 through a small diameter ink infection connection pathway 278 from the ink injection hole 270 ,

A substantially rectangular plate för Mige tension plate 306 is on the flexible film 302 is provided so as to be longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal direction (backward forward) of the ink cartridge 200 extends. The tension plate 306 adheres to its longitudinal central portion at the substantially central portion of the flexible film 302 through a two-sided tape.

It should be noted that the longitudinal cross-sectional shape ( 21 ) of the housing body is the same for the black or color ink cartridges. Because the tension plate 306 adheres in the longitudinal direction, a similar voltage can be exerted by preparing and adhering the tension plate 306 with the same length for all color ink cartridges. The length of the tension plate 306 is slightly shorter than the dimension of the ink receiving portion 300 formed in the longitudinal direction. The material of the tension plate is a film formed of a resin such as PET film. It should be noted that the detailed operation of the tension plate 306 will be described later.

An atmosphere chamber 290 in fluid communication with the atmosphere communication hole 280 is in the scope of the ink receiving portion 300 educated. In detail, a partition 282 is at the back of the front surface wall 234 educated. The partition 282 connects the side walls 232 , Also is an outside projection wall 211 from the lid 210 educated. The outside projection wall 211 serves to connect to the partition 282 , the side walls 232 and the back surface wall 237 of the main housing 230 , If the lid 210 on the main body 230 is attached and the outside projection wall 211 with the partition 282 , the side walls 232 and the back surface wall 237 coupled, then is the atmosphere chamber 290 through the partition 282 , the side walls 232 and the back surface wall 237 surrounds and defines an area (through the lid 210 covered) containing the ink receiving portion 300 surrounds. The atmosphere chamber 290 is in a substantially sealed state in connection with the outside only through the atmosphere communication hole 280 , Here is the atmosphere connection hole 280 a through hole located between the front surface wall 234 and the partition 282 extends and that to the front surface wall 234 and the partition 282 is open. The ink delivery connection pathway 268 and the ink injection connection pathway 278 penetrate the connecting wall 282 and are in fluid communication with the ink receiving portion 300 , If the lid 210 on the main body 230 is attached and the opening of the main body 230 covered, is the atmosphere chamber 290 in fluid communication with the atmosphere only through the atmosphere communication hole 280 , By applying the atmospheric or overpressure to the atmosphere chamber 290 can. Pressure on the flexible film 302 of the ink receiving section 300 from the external side of the ink receiving portion 300 be placed so that ink in the ink receiving portion 300 to the outside of the ink cartridge 200 through the ink delivery hole 260 can be delivered.

It should be noted that a plurality of ribs 292 ( 15 ) on the inside of the atmosphere chamber 290 are formed so that the strength of the main body 230 is increased.

14 shows the inner surface of the lid 210 holding the ink cartridge 200 is attached. As is clear from the drawing, the lid is 210 essentially flat. The spherically outwardly curved section 212 which is in the central portion of the lid 210 is formed, has a shape that the bulge of the flexible film 302 surrounds. An annular section of the flat section 214 has a predetermined width, which is the spherically outwardly curved portion 212 surrounds and an ink receiving peripheral portion 216 defined, which will be described later. A groove-shaped notch 218 is formed to pass through the ink receiving peripheral portion 216 cuts. If the lid 210 with the main body 230 is connected, a space develops between the ink receiving peripheral portion 216 and the flexible film 302 at the opening peripheral edge 312 adheres. When the ink cartridge is vacuum-packed in a manner to be described later, the lid deforms 210 and the main body 230 flexible to each other. Even if the lid side of the ink receiving peripheral portion 216 in close contact with the flexible film 302 comes, serve the groove-shaped notch 218 and the protrusion wall notches 219 to be described later, bringing the space between the spherical outward curved section 212 and the flexible film 302 in fluid communication with the atmosphere chamber 290 , A protruding wall 215 is also on the inner side of the outside projection wall 211 formed the outside of the Tintenaufnahmeumfangsabschnittes 216 is. The projecting wall 215 extends from the lid 210 and stands by him so as to have the ink receiving peripheral portion 216 includes. The projecting wall 215 is arranged so that when the lid 210 on the main body 230 is attached, the outer circumference of the opening peripheral edge 312 , referring to later 27 to describe surrounds. The projecting wall 215 is interrupted at sections that are the sidewalls 232 follow and the outside projection wall 211 approach and are connected with it. These interrupted sections of the projecting wall 215 define the Projecting wall notches 219 , A protrusion wall notch 219 is adjacent to the groove-shaped notch 218 arranged and the other projection wall notch 219 is opposite the groove-shaped notch 218 in the left-right direction angeord net. The protrusion wall notches 219 also serve to bring a space between the spherical outwardly curved portion 212 and the flexible film 302 in fluid communication with the atmosphere chamber 290 and for preventing the overpressure from the atmosphere communicating hole 280 through the projecting wall 215 is blocked.

As in 15 is shown, the ink holding portion 310 from the opening peripheral edge 312 enclosed and contains a tub section 320 , The tub section 320 is open on the upper surface. The opening peripheral edge 312 has a circular or elliptical shape extending outward at a portion 328 bulges. The tub section 320 contains a curved surface section 324 extending downwardly in a substantially curved shape from a circular (or ellipsoidal) shaped peripheral edge 322 curves. The surrounding edge 322 is at the same height as the opening peripheral edge 312 positioned. The essential center of the curved surface section 324 is the lowest position. The curved surface section 324 contains a sloping surface section 326 which is flat (not curved). The horizontally extending flat shoulder cut 328 that goes to the outside of the opening perimeter edge 312 Bumps is between the opening peripheral edge 312 and the circular (or ellipsoidal) confinement edge 322 educated. Because the flexible film 302 at the opening peripheral edge 312 attached so that it is the tub section 320 covered, ink between the flexible film 302 , the curved surface section 324 including the inclined surface portion 326 and the flat shoulder portion 328 stored.

The height of the flat shoulder section 328 substantially matches the height of the opening peripheral edge 312 so that the flexible film 302 only in a small amount over the flat shoulder section 328 bulges. With this configuration, when the lid 210 on the main body 230 is attached, the user visually the color of the ink from above the lid 210 Confirm by looking at the color of the ink between the flat shoulder section 328 and the flexible film 302 has accumulated. In other words, if the tub section 320 is full of ink, the color of the ink appears in the trough portion 320 essentially black because the layer of ink is thick. However, the actual color of the ink may be at the thin ink layer between the flat shoulder portion 328 and the flexible film 302 be seen.

The flexible film 302 is preformed into a curved shape closely fitting the inner surface of the ink holding portion 310 contacted when virtually no ink in the ink holding portion 310 is. The method of making the flexible film 302 and its shape will be described later. Because the flexible film 302 is shaped in this way, the flexible film can gently and gradually deform by following the amount of ink from the point where the ink completely clears the space between the flexible film 302 and the ink holding section 310 fills to the point where virtually no ink in the ink holding portion 310 is. Virtually no pressure is applied to the ink from the flexible film itself, for example, by resilient contraction.

An air removal / ink supply groove 332 is in the base surface of the tub section 320 educated. The air-removal / ink supply groove 332 is in fluid communication with an ink injection groove 330 in fluid communication with the ink injection hole 270 stands (the ink injection connection pathway 278 ) and the ink supply hole 260 (Tintenlieferverbindungspfadweg 268 ). A detection mechanism 340 is further for the base surface of the tub section 320 intended. The detection mechanism 340 serves to detect the residual amount of ink in the tub section 320 remains.

As in 16 is shown, the detection mechanism of a sensor lever receiving groove 350 , a sensor lever 360 and a movie of oppression 342 produced. The sensor lever 360 is inside the sensor lever receiving groove 350 intended. The oppression movie 342 has a T-shape. The sensor lever receiving groove 350 is in the base surface of the tub section 320 open. The sensor lever receiving groove 350 has a base surface 352 on, the lower surface ( 8th ) of the main body 230 follows. The sensor lever receiving groove 350 is formed so as to extend in a direction inclined by 45 ° with respect to the front-rear direction of the case body from the central position of the curved surface portion 324 of the tub section 320 is shifted to bend by 45 °, where it forms the circular (or ellipsoidal) confinement edge 322 of the tub section 320 reached, and then to extend parallel to the longitudinal direction of the housing body. The portion of the sensor lever receiving groove 350 which extends parallel to the longitudinal direction of the case body becomes the groove portion 354 called and is at the top of the flat shoulder section 328 open. In this way, the sensor lever receiving groove is 350 so open that she extends in a direction 45 ° from the longitudinal direction of the case body at positions of the central portion of the curved surface portion 324 of the tub section 320 to the inclined surface portion 326 is shifted and is open so that they are parallel to the longitudinal direction of the housing body on the upper surface of the flat shoulder portion 328 extends. The depth of the sensor lever receiving groove 350 is substantially at the curved surface portion 324 fixed, rapidly takes on the inclined surface portion 326 to and is substantially on the flat shoulder portion 328 fixed. The groove section 354 the sensor lever receiving groove 350 extends to the outside of the tub section 320 , follows the wall leading to the inside of the sensor receiving groove 240 protrudes, and reaches the inside of the sensor receiving groove 240 , whereby a projection portion 372 is formed in 18 is shown. Also the sensor lever receiving groove 350 has a groove 351 on, which cuts the longitudinal direction.

The sensor lever 360 has a specific gravity higher than the specific gravity of ink, and is formed of a black-colored resin capable of blocking infrared light. The sensor lever 360 is in the sensor lever receiving groove 350 intended. The sensor lever 360 is an elongated plate-shaped part with a pivot point section 362 an actuator arm section 364 and a detection arm portion 366 , The pivot point section 362 has the shape of a triangular prism. The Betätigungsarmabschnitt 364 and the detection arm portion 366 extend on opposite sides of the pivot point section 362 , A hemispherical pivot 365 (A detection point of the remaining ink amount) is at the end portion of the Betätigungsarmabschnittes 364 intended. The sensor lever 360 is in the sensor lever receiving groove 350 so provided that the hemispherical pivot point 365 in the central position of the curved surface portion 324 of the tub section 320 is provided. As a result, the hemispherical pivot point is 365 at the lowest position of the curved surface portion 324 intended. The detection arm section 366 is bent at a 45 ° angle near its end, creating a curved end portion 367 formed in the groove portion 354 the sensor lever receiving groove 350 is positioned (the portion of the flat shoulder portion 328 open) and serves as a detection point. The pivot point section 362 is inside the tailor's groove 351 the sensor lever receiving groove 350 , The tip of the triangular cross section of the pivot point section 362 sinks into the ink so that it covers the bottom of the cutter groove 351 contacted. As a result, the sensor lever can 360 with the pivot point section 362 pivot as a fulcrum. Here is the weight of the detection arm section 366 greater than the weight of the Betätigungsarmabschnittes 364 , In this example, the weight of the detection arm section 356 five times or more than the weight of the Betätigungsarmabschnittes 364 , For this reason, the detection point 367 of the sensor lever 360 if enough ink remains on the base surface 352 the sensor lever receiving groove 350 indicated by the solid line in 17 is shown. The hemispherical pivot point 365 (Detection point of the remaining ink amount) floats in the ink from the base surface 352 and stands above the bottom of the tub section 320 in front. On the other hand, if the ink is used up, leaving the flexible film 302 to the tub section 320 moves, presses the flexible film 302 the hemispherical pivot point 365 (Detection point of the remaining ink amount) down as indicated by the double-dotted line in 17 is shown, so that the bent end portion 367 (Detection point) ascends. Because the sensor lever 360 in this way in the sensor lever receiving groove 350 taken up, extending from the tub section 320 from below the tub section 320 stick out, the sensor lever blocked 360 not the flexible film 302 when the flexible film 302 to the tub section 320 deformed. Therefore, the detection of the residual ink can be performed more reliably.

Also, the length L1 of the detection arm portion 366 of the sensor lever 360 longer than the length L2 of the Betätigungsarmabschnittes 364 , In this example, the length L1 of the detection arm section is 366 about four times the length L2 of the actuating arm cut 364 , Even if therefore the flexible film 302 the hemispherical pivot point 365 (Detection point of the remaining ink amount) only slightly lowered, the bent end portion 367 increases by a large amount, so that the detection using a residual amount detection sensor 70 to be described later, can be performed reliably.

The PET film tension plate 306 Make sure the sensor lever 360 reliably operates when virtually no ink remains unused, so that the ink can be used up to the maximum. That is, when the tension plate 306 not provided, could fold in a section of the flexible film 302 develop when the flexible film 302 lowers in connection with the decrease of ink and the flexible film 302 in close contact with the tub section 320 comes. In this case, the sensor lever would 360 be activated while ink between the fold sections and the tub section 320 remains so that the ink is not used up.

In the present embodiment, only the central portion of the tension plate is 306 that is, the portion corresponding to the hemispherical pivot point 365 of the sensor lever 360 opposite, with the central portion of the flexible film 302 connected. The tension plate 306 rides on top of the bulging flexible film 302 as indicated by the solid line in 17 is shown when there is a large amount of ink in the tub section 320 gives. The tension plate 306 moves down in connection with the decrease of ink. However, if a small amount of ink remains, both ends of the tension plate will collide 306 against the inner peripheral surface of the tub portion 320 at a position lower than the opening peripheral edge 312 and higher than the lowest position of the tub section 320 so that the tension plate 306 is prevented from moving further down. As a result, although the peripheral portion of the flexible film 302 in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the tub portion 320 Following is the central portion of the flexible film 302 raised because of the tension plate 306 , At this time, the central portion of the raised flexible film is 302 the hemispherical pivot point 365 of the sensor lever 360 opposite, with a space in between.

When the amount of ink is further reduced, the central portion of the flexible film moves 302 continue down against the spring force of the tension plate 306 , However, once the amount of ink in the tray section is reduced to less than a predetermined amount range so that hardly any ink remains, the flexible film overcomes 302 the compressive force of the tension plate 306 so that the central portion of the flexible film 302 against the hemispherical pivot point 365 of the sensor lever 360 pressed. At this time, the surface area of the peripheral portion of the flexible film decreases 302 in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the tub section 320 follows, gradually, until the center of the flexible film 302 the sensor lever 360 pressed. That is, the tension plate 306 prevents wrinkles that they are in the flexible film 302 be formed along the way. Likewise, the flexible film moves 302 down, while ink in the central portion of the tub section 320 is collected. Therefore, the sensor lever 360 reliably operates in the state where virtually no ink remains unused.

The tension plate 306 need not be formed in the substantially rectangular shape described above, but it may be triangularly shaped, star-shaped or have any optional shape, as long as their shape allows, a space between the flexible film 302 and the hemispherical pivot point 365 of the sensor lever 360 open when the downward movement is limited, as described above. Further, the outer peripheral portion of these various molded parts does not need to be against the inner circumferential surface of the trough portion 320 but he could be on the opening perimeter edge 312 to be placed.

It is desirable that the tension plate 306 has a compliance and a weight that does not affect the pressure in the ink receiving portion 300 exercise. The pressure in the ink receiving portion 300 However, it can be adjusted by properly adjusting the spring force and weight. If there is a large amount of ink, the weight of the tension plate will exercise 306 an overpressure on the inside of the ink receiving portion 300 off, because the voltage source 306 only the center of the flexible film 302 contacted. If only a little ink remains, the tension plate works 306 as a bar for lifting the central portion of the flexible film 302 , As a result, a negative pressure is applied to the ink receiving portion 300 exercised. By adjusting the spring force (which refers to the negative pressure when little ink remains), the weight (which refers to the overpressure when a large amount of ink remains) and the length (which depends on the time of switching from the application of the Overpressure on the application of negative pressure refers) the tension plate 306 For example, a pressure appropriate to the state of consumption of the ink may be applied to the ink receiving portion 300 ).

In this embodiment, the tension plate 306 with the flexible film 302 so connected to the flexible film 302 following moves until only a small amount of ink remains. On the other hand, the tension plate 306 through the tub section 320 prevents it from moving down if only a little ink remains, and it has spring force which is the flexible film 302 in a direction away from the pivot point (detection point of the remaining ink amount) 365 suppressed. The tension plate 306 enables sections of flexible film 302 that are not the sections opposite the pivot point (detection point of the remaining ink amount) 365 are the tub section 320 at least after a small amount of ink remains. The tension plate 306 however, pushes sections of the flexible film 302 that correspond to the pivot point (detection point of the remaining ink amount) 365 are opposite, in the direction away from the pivot point (detection point of the remaining ink amount) 365 , Further, in conjunction with the removal of ink after a small amount of ink remains, the tension plate is approaching 306 the pivot point (Erfas point of the remaining ink amount) 365 against ^pressing the voltage ^plate 306 , In this way, the ink can be used up reliably.

As in 16 is shown, the T-shaped suppression film 342 made of PET and for pressing the sensor lever 360 down into the sensor lever receiving groove from above the sensor lever 360 intended. Explained in more detail, the movie of oppression 342 has an integral solid section 342a and a resilient plate portion 342b on. The resilient plate section 342b presses the detection arm section 366 , From the sensor lever receiving groove 350 is the groove 351 that the pivot point section 362 absorbs, with a level difference formed. A pair of holes 344 is in the fixed section 342a educated. By fitting a pair of protrusions 356 in the pair of holes 344 and crushing the pair of protrusions 356 can the fixed section 342a at the tub section 320 be attached. This will make the pivot point section 362 in the tailor's groove 351 stored, with a space between himself and the T-shaped suppression film 342 is opened. The sensor lever 360 can freely with the pivot point section 362 pivot as a fulcrum. The resilient plate section 342b is inserted inside the sensor lever receiving groove 350 provided so as to become the sensor arm section 366 from the fixed section 342a extends. As a result, the detection arm section moves 366 through the resilient plate section 342b downward. That is, because the semicircular pivot point 365 for protruding over the bottom surface of the tub section 220 is pressed, the semicircular pivot portion 366 reliable above base surface of the tub section 320 even if the ink cartridge is turned upside down during transport of the ink cartridge. It should be noted that the spring force of the resilient plate portion 342b is large enough, a further increasing movement of the detection arm section 366 in connection with the increase of ink block.

It should be noted that the portion of the sensor lever receiving groove 350 that the sensor arm section 366 in the inclined surface section 326 is formed. Because the inclination of the inclined surface section 326 is larger than the inclination of the spherical surface portion, the detection arm portion 366 move up a sufficient amount without the flexible film 302 to touch and thereby be disturbed.

As in 18 is shown, contains the lower surface of the main housing 230 a flat smooth surface 242 that can slide with respect to the ink cartridge mounting portions S. The flat smooth surface 242 is with the sidewalls 232 connected on both sides. The bottom surface of the main body 230 is with the guide groove 236 and the sensor receiving groove 240 educated. As in 30 is shown, the distance Lac between the guide groove corresponds 236 and the side wall 232 nearest to the width, the guide partition interrupting distance La in the ink cartridge mounting portions S. As in 35 is shown is the guide groove 236 only formed with a length Lcc, which is the guide projection walls 120 in the longitudinal direction of the front surface wall 234 can record. Specifically, the guide groove 236 is formed with a length that is at least as long or longer than a length Lc between overpressure application parts 91 in the ink cartridge mounting portions S and the side end of the front surface opening portion O of the guide projection turn 120 is. Because of this, the guide groove can 236 the guide projection wall 120 record when the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S. As in 30 is shown, the distance Lbc between the guide groove corresponds 236 and the guide projection walls 120 a guide-sensor pitch in the ink cartridge mounting portion S. As in FIG 30 is shown, the sensor receiving groove 240 formed only to a length Ldc, the distance Ld between the overpressure application parts 91 in the longitudinal direction of the wall and the waste ink container photosensor 170 corresponds so that the residual ink detection photo sensor 170 can be included when the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S.

A plurality of ribs 243 is in the bottom surface of the main body 230 educated. Ribs 243 serve to assist the strength of the tub section 320 from the lower surface of the tub section 320 , It should be noted that a floor central axis rib 244 in the central position in the wide direction of the main housing 230 is formed so that it is in the longitudinal direction of the main body 230 extends. The floor central axis rib 244 continues, the pull-out latching projection 160 to withdraw (figure recovery unit 10 ) to below the ground surface when the ink cartridge 200 slides over the bottom surface of the ink cartridge mounting portion S. The ink cartridge 200 does not pull out of the ink cartridge mounting portion S since the pull-out latching resistor 160 in engagement with the leak prevention lock recess 246 is when the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S.

A sensor lever receiving section 370 bil Det the inner portion of the sensor lever receiving groove 350 , The sensor lever receiving section 370 is in the bottom surface of the main body 230 so formed that it from the tub section 320 herausvorsteht. The portion (sensor lever receiving projection portion 372 ) of the sensor lever receiving portion 370 , the base surface 352 the sensor lever receiving groove 350 is in the longitudinal direction at the center in the width of the sensor receiving groove 240 in front. The rounded surfaces, in the facing surfaces of the sensor protection devices 176 are formed, facilitate the insertion of the protrusion portion 372 between the sensor protection devices 176 and the emission section for infrared light 172 and the infrared light receiving section 174 the residual ink capture photo sensor 170 , As in 35 is shown is when the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the cartridge mounting portions S and the residual ink detection photosensor 170 in the sensor receiving groove 240 is received, the sensor receiving projection portion between the emission portion for infrared light 172 and the infrared light receiving section 174 the residual ink capture photo sensor 170 positioned. The sensor arm end section 367 (Sensor point) of the sensor lever 360 in the groove section 354 in the protrusion section 372 is positioned as a result between the emission portion for infrared light 172 and the infrared light receiving section 174 positioned. It should be noted that at least the projecting portion 372 the main body is made of a material which is permeable to infrared light.

19 is a schematic plan view of the ink cartridge 200 according to the embodiment having the above-described configuration. 19 shows the situation in the lid 210 on the main body 230 is appropriate. The internal configuration is shown by the dashed line. 20 is a view taken from the direction indicated by an arrow A of 19 is called, that is, it is a frontal view, which is the front surface of the ink cartridge 200 shows. 21 to 28 are cross-sectional views taken along the lines BB, CC, DD, EE, FF, GG, HH and II, respectively. It should be noted that the flexible film 302 and the ribs ( 243 . 292 ) are not indicated in the drawings for purposes of clarity. Furthermore, the floor center is axillary rib 244 referred to in some of the drawings. As in 15 and 27 is shown is a peripheral wall 231 in the main body 230 educated. The peripheral wall 231 extends from the opening peripheral edge 312 that the opening of the tub section 320 defined, integral and continuous to the bottom surface side (in the deep direction of the tub section 320 ) of the main body 230 , A peripheral wall section 233 is formed so that it is with the peripheral wall 231 , the side walls 232 and the flat smooth surface 242 connected is. The peripheral wall section 233 carries the tub section 320 from the periphery of the tub section 320 , The peripheral wall 231 and the side walls 232 are separated by a space interposed therebetween and by a plurality of wall-like ribs 292 connected. The flat section 214 the lid is with the upper end of the peripheral wall portion 233 coupled and serves as the outer peripheral portion in juxtaposition with the peripheral wall portion 233 , As a result, the lower surface of the ink accommodating portion becomes 300 through the flat smooth surface 242 stabilized, even if it is shaped substantially spherical. Attaching to and removing from the multi-function device 1 is simple. Because the flexible film 302 at the opening peripheral edge 312 adheres and the lid 210 with the upper end of the peripheral wall portion 233 ink can be reliably sealed therein without the adhered portion of the flexible film 302 the lid 210 disturbs. Since the peripheral wall section 233 has a two-layer configuration consisting of the peripheral wall 231 and the side walls 232 is manufactured, and uses a configuration in which the peripheral wall portion 233 and the peripheral wall 231 through a plurality of ribs 292 are connected, the peripheral wall portion 233 be prevented from deforming even if the ink cartridge 200 subjected to the vacuum packaging processes which will be described later. Continue, as out 18 is clear, is the majority of ribs 243 so formed that they the lower surface of the tub section 320 and the peripheral trough portion 233 connect. Because of this, the ribs prevent 243 that the tub section 320 and the peripheral tub section 233 deform, even if the ink cartridge 200 subjected to the vacuum packaging processes to be described later.

The ink cartridge 200 with the configuration described above has a flat lower surface. As in 29 is shown, the upper surface has a curved shape which is higher than the height at both ends (side walls 232 ) in the broad direction. The height at both ends is in the wide direction (the height of the flat smooth surface 242 to the flat section 214 ) is substantially the same as the distance between the base wall 32 and the enlarged section 112 on the upper portion of the side end of the front surface opening portion O of the partition walls 110 is formed. Consequently, the ink cartridge 200 are introduced into the ink cartridge mounting portions S. Also, the ink cartridge 200 prevented from being introduced upside down Be as the height of the spherically outwardly curved section 212 and the protrusion portion 313 is higher than the height at the two sides in the direction of the width and the curved protruding walls 47 the ceiling surface of the attachment portions S is formed to be the spherical outwardly curved portion 212 the ink cartridge 200 consequences.

As the bottom surface of the main body 230 is smooth and with the peripheral wall portion 233 is formed, which extends in the longitudinal direction, the ink cartridge 200 simply by inserting the ink cartridge 200 in the ink cartridge detaching portion S and sliding the same are applied over the bottom surface, during the pull-out locking projection 160 is in a retracted state. Next corresponds to the width of the ink cartridge 200 the distance between the partitions 110 of the ink attachment portion S, the distance Lac between the guide groove 236 and the side walls 232 closest to the width direction corresponds to the intermediate distance La of the guide partition in the ink cartridge mounting portion S, and the distance Lbc between the guide groove 236 and the sensor receiving groove 240 Accordingly, by sliding the cartridge so that the guide groove 236 through the guide protrusion walls 120 is guided when the ink cartridge 200 is introduced into the ink cartridge mounting portion S, the residual ink detection photosensor 170 reliable in the sensor receiving groove 240 taken up, and the curved end section 367 in the sensor receiving groove 240 is between emission section for infrared light 172 and the infrared light receiving section 174 introduced.

It should be noted that as in 9 and 30 The position of the end portion of the front surface opening portion O side of the guide protrusion walls is shown 120 in the ink cartridge mounting portion S at a position closer to the front surface opening portion O than the position of the end portion (sensor protection device 176 ) of the front surface portion O side of the residual ink detection photo sensor 170 is positioned. The end of the guide groove 236 , that of the front surface wall 234 is opposite, is farther from the front surface wall 234 as the end of the sensor receiving groove 240 positioned, which wall of the front surfaces 234 opposite. Consequently, if the ink cartridge 200 is introduced into the ink cartridge mounting portion S and over the holding portion base wall 32 is pushed, reaches the sensor receiving groove 240 the residual ink detection photo sensor 170 after the guide groove 236 the guide projection walls 120 receives. Because the main body 230 the residual ink detection photo sensor 170 reached after moving in the wide direction of the ink cartridge 200 by the engagement between the guide protrusion walls 120 and the guide groove 236 is positioned, the bent end portion 367 in the sensor receiving groove 240 between the emission section for infrared light 172 and the infrared light receiving section 174 introduced.

Since the guide projection wall 120 closer to the lock release operation rib 150 in the direction of width of the ink cartridge mounting portion S, and the guide groove 236 closer to the lock release section 238 in the direction of the width of the ink cartridge 200 is the latch release section 238 reliable against the lock release operation groove 150 and pulls it back when the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S. As the spring part continues 114 the ink cartridge 200 down from the partitions 110 near the guide protrusion walls 120 presses are the actions to pull back the lock release operation rib 150 more reliable.

As in 29 and 35 is shown contains the ink cartridge 200 the sensor receiving groove 240 and the guide groove 236 as openings in the front surface wall 234 and in the lower surface at positions on both sides of the ink supply hole 260 are provided as from the side of the front surface wall 234 is seen. The sensor receiving groove 240 Used to record the residual ink detection photo sensor 170 , The guide groove 236 serves to receive the guide projection walls 120 , The sensor arm end section 367 is between the emission section for infrared light 172 and the infrared light receiving section 174 inserted and is movable in the projecting portion 372 added. Since the projecting portion 372 into the sensor receiving groove 240 protrudes and the lock release section 238 adjacent to the guide groove 236 is provided, the ink cartridge 200 be flat and smooth and stable over the base wall 32 of the ink cartridge receiving portion S are moved. The ink cartridge 200 can be easily installed and removed. Further, the amount of residual ink can be reliably detected by simply attaching the ink cartridge 200 in the ink cartridge mounting portion S.

The ink cartridge 200 of the present embodiment is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S as shown in FIG 30 to 35 is shown.

The user waved the front upper surface cover 50 to expose the ink cartridge holding portion P. Then the user guides the ink cartridge 200 into the front surface opening portion O of the ink cartridge mounting portion S, and pushes the lower surface of the ink cartridge 200 via the cartridge holding section base wall 32 , As a result, first, as in 30 and 31 is shown, the front surface wall 234 the pull-out latch projection 160 back. After that, as in 32 is shown, the pull-out locking projection 160 away, through the floor central axis rib 244 retracted while the cartridge slides forward. The guide groove 236 engages with the guide projection walls 120 one and slide on. When the lock release section 238 the front surface wall 234 against the lock release operation rib 150 pushes, gives the locking part 180 the locking of the needle protection plates 130 free (lowers the press plate 140 from). After that, as in 33 shown is the needle guard plate 130 back when the front upper surface wall 234 the ink cartridge 200 the needle guard plate 130 pressed. If the ink cartridge 200 is moved forward and fully inserted into the ink cartridge mounting portion S, penetrates the hollow ink introduction needle 82 the ink delivery rubber plug 262 ( 39 (a) ) in the ink supply hole 260 , After that, as in 34 and 35 is shown, the front surface wall 234 against the rubber cap 93 of overpressure application part 91 , The cartridge is against the force of the spring 94 of overpressure application part 91 pressed until she goes a little further. At this time, it is desirable that the front surface of the cartridge abut against a stopper wall (not shown) so as to block the forward movement of the cartridge. After that, though, the cartridge comes a little bit by the force of the spring 94 moved back, the pull-out locking tab 160 in engagement with the leak prevention lock recess 246 on the bottom surface of the cartridge. As a result, the cartridge is blocked in place and prevented from being pulled out. That way, the ink cartridge becomes 200 mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S. Because the front surface wall 234 the ink cartridge 200 against the annular resilient sealing member 93 with a substantially flat portion thereof, become the atmosphere communication hole 280 and the overpressure hole 98 the annular resilient sealing member 93 reliably brought into fluid communication without any air leaks.

Since the black ink cartridge has a wider width than the other color ink cartridges, the black ink cartridge can not be erroneously inserted into an ink cartridge mounting portion S for a color ink cartridge. On the other hand, conceivably, other color ink cartridges may be introduced more erroneously into the black ink cartridge mounting portion. The distance in the width direction Lb1 between the guide groove 236 and the sensor receiving groove 240 in the color ink cartridges, however, is narrower than the distance in the width direction Lb2 between the guide projection wall 120 and the residual ink detection photosensor 170 in the housing section for the black ink cartridge. As a result, the front surface of the cartridge becomes against the sensor protection devices 176 bump and not continue to move forward, even if the guide groove 236 in engagement with the guide projection wall 120 comes and the ink cartridge is pushed. Even if the width of the color cartridges were large enough for insertion between the guide projection wall 120 in the housing section for the black cartridge and the partition 110 on the side farther from the guide projection wall 120 can the lock release operation rib 150 not be retracted, if not the guide groove 236 in engagement with the guide projection wall 120 is. Therefore, the needle guard plate 130 Do not be withdrawn, leaving the front surface of the cartridge against the needle guard plate 130 butts, and the hollow ink introduction needle 82 can not into the ink delivery hole 260 be introduced.

If the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S, provides the hollow ink introduction needle 82 Ink from the inside of the ink receiving portion 300 to the buffer tank 84 , The ink from the buffer tank 84 becomes the ink-jet head 70 supplied by the ink supply tube T according to recording operations.

Although the pressure pump 36 During normal printing activities and while waiting is stopped, the inside of the ink cartridge is 200 with atmospheric pressure in the atmosphere chamber 290 inside the ink cartridge 200 through the pump 36 , the overprinting tubes 92 , the overpressure application parts 91 and the atmosphere communication hole 280 applied. For this reason, the flexible film deforms 302 in connection with the decrease in the ink without applying pressure to the ink, and the preformed shape of the flexible film 302 essentially follows the tub section 320 and comes in close contact with the tub section 320 , Therefore, the pressure of the ink coming to the inkjet head 70 is delivered, kept fairly fixed, and the ejection of ink from the ink jet head 70 can be stabilized. The amount of remaining ink can be reduced because of the flexible film 302 in close contact with the tub section 320 ends, being essentially the tub section 320 follows. Furthermore, at least a portion of the tub section 320 the curved surface chenabschnitt 324 , whose cross-sectional surface area in connection with the distance from above (the open side) of the trough portion 320 decreases. Therefore, the flexible film 302 easily the tub section 320 follow if only a small amount of ink remains. The amount of residual ink can be reduced, and the pressure of the supplied ink can be maintained substantially fixed to the last end.

The ink cartridge mounting portion S in which the ink cartridge 200 is lower than the ink jet head 70 positioned in the vertical direction. For this reason (see 3 ), the difference in the print head constantly exerts a negative pressure on the ink in the nozzles of the piezoelectric ink-jet head 70 in the same manner as in a general ink jet recording apparatus. Under normal conditions, however, the surface tension of the meniscus of the ink in the nozzles maintains the ink in the nozzles against the vacuum. After operation of the well-known cleaning unit 78 That is, after capping the nozzles with a cap and sucking the ink from the nozzles using the pump, the ink with bubbles in the cap, when the suction actions are stopped by the pump, enters the nozzles by the difference in the print head. There is a possibility that erroneous ejection may occur later when printing operations are performed by the ink-jet head 70 , In the present embodiment, the positive pressure pump 36 Pressed after the cleaning activities until the cap is opened. Operation of the overpressure pump 36 can also be started during the cleaning activities. As a result, a positive pressure air flow into the atmosphere chamber 290 delivered in the cartridge. An overprint is applied to the ink through the flexible film 302 exercised. As a result, an overpressure from the cartridge side to the ink in the nozzles of the ink jet head 70 can be exerted, and bubbles can be prevented from being pulled into the nozzles. It should be noted that at this time pressure, by the positive pressure pump 36 is applied, can be sufficient pressure, so that the bubbles do not enter the nozzles. Although there is no need to apply pressure large enough to positive pressure ink from the nozzles, such a large pressure can be used.

If the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S, pushes the atmosphere communication hole 280 against the overpressure application parts 91 after the hollow ink introduction needle 82 the ink delivery rubber plug 282 in the pull-out latching protrusion 160 penetrates. (Explains in greater detail how in 35 is shown, the distance A in the ink cartridge mounting portion S is between the needle hole in the hollow ink introduction needle 82 and the front surface of the rubber cap 93 of overpressure application part 91 greater than the distance B that the ink supply rubber plug 262 the inside of the ink supply hole 260 from the front surface of the ink cartridge 200 blocked.) When the ink cartridge 200 is pulled out of the ink cartridge mounting portion S, the hollow ink introduction needle 82 from the rubber stopper 262 within the ink delivery hole 260 pulled out after the atmosphere connection hole 280 from the overpressure attachment parts 91 is disconnected. Even if therefore the ink cartridge 200 is pulled out of the ink cartridge mounting portion S, while the positive pressure pump 36 Overpressure to the ink cartridge 200 would create the atmosphere connection hole 280 first from the overpressure attachment parts 91 while loosening the hollow ink introduction needle 82 remains in its permeated state. Therefore, ink can be prevented from getting out of the ink cartridge 200 to lick.

If the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S, then, as in FIG 35 is shown, the emission portion for infrared light 172 and the infrared light receiving section 174 the residual ink capture photo sensor 170 in the sensor receiving groove 240 so taken up that they the projection section 372 including the detection arm end portion 367 (Detection point) of the sensor lever 360 receives. As a result, the detection arm end portion is 367 (Detection point) of the sensor lever 360 between the emission section for infrared light 172 and the infrared light receiving section 174 positioned. By doing this, the ink detecting mechanism for detecting the state that the ink cartridge is 200 from ink runs empty, finished. That is, the sensor section 170 (Light-emitting section 172 + Light receiving section 174 ) of the ink detecting mechanism of the present embodiment is provided in the ink cartridge mounting portion S. The lever (sensor lever 360 black resin), which detects if the sensor section 170 ON or OFF is in the ink cartridge 200 provided so that the ink detection portion can be completed, in which the ink cartridge 200 is attached to the ink cartridge mounting portion S.

As previously explained, the sensor lever moves 360 the detection arm end section 367 (Detection point) vertically according to the amount of remaining ink. If a sufficient amount of the ink remains, the detection arm end portion is 367 between the emission section for infrared light 172 and the infrared light receiving section 174 positions and blocks the infrared light. When the ink is practically used up, it will the detection arm end section 367 between the emission section for infrared light 172 and the infrared light receiving section 174 pulled out, so that the receiving section for infrared light 174 Infrared light is received. As a result, a person skilled in the art can easily convert the presence or absence of ink into an electrical signal, and control the operations of the recording apparatus. The sensor 170 can be used to detect whether the ink cartridge is attached, and not only for detecting the presence or absence of ink.

The ink cartridge 200 The present embodiment is constructed only of resin parts. The basic configuration of the ink cartridge 200 is a film that is pulled over a resin case with ink held therebetween. That is, a single sheet of film is placed over the tub section 320 of the main housing 230 pulled, and ink is between the main body 230 and filled the movie. By attaching the lid 210 on the main body 230 prevents the user from directly touching the film or breaking the film.

Specifically explained that main body 230 is made of a resin having a high resistance to dissolution properties of ink. In this example, the main body is 230 made of a non-additive polypropylene (PP) that has no additives contained therein. If additives were included in the polypropylene, the ink could dissolve the additives because the main body 230 (the ink holding section 310 ) touched the ink directly. On the other hand, the lid 210 made of an additive polypropylene (PP), in which additives are added to maintain the strength, since the lid 210 do not touch the ink directly. In this way, the main body 230 and the lid 210 are used in the ultrasonic welding is used, since both are made of the same resin material (PP).

In the present embodiment, the ink accommodating portion is 300 between the tub section 320 and the flexible film 302 Are defined. The ink can be used up completely because no foam is used to hold the ink. Because the ink cartridge 200 Made only of resin without any foam, no dioxin is produced when the ink cartridge 200 is burned after the ink is used up. This reduces adverse influence on the environment of waste materials. Also, there is no need to provide tab portions or a spout, which would be necessary if the ink receiving portion 300 would be in a bag shape. Therefore, a large amount of ink can be accommodated in the housing only in a small volume. According to the present embodiment, the ink accommodating portion 300 with a simple configuration of simply preparing a concave holding vessel and masking with a film. The very simple configuration can be easily redesigned if necessary.

According to the present embodiment, the flexible film is 302 a two-layer configuration. That is, the flexible film 302 is shown by adhering together an inner layer made of polypropylene (30 μm thick) having heat fusion properties and an outer layer made of nylon having heat resistance and impact resistance. The polypropylene (30μm thick) is a non-additive type that has virtually no additives contained therein. Since the inner layer contacts the ink, the inner layer would dissolve in the ink if the inner layer contained additives. However, polypropylene (30μm thick) is extremely weak against mechanical impact. For this reason, the outer layer of nylon is provided for absorbing impact. The two-layer configuration made of the inner layer made of polypropylene (30 μm thick) and the outer layer made of nylon has the property of stretching when heat is applied, and it is also permeable for air and other gases. As will be described later, this is extremely desirable for the flexible film 302 the present embodiment is used.

According to the present embodiment, the above-described flexible double-layered film becomes 302 is made in a manner described below so that it can bulge outward when attached to the ink holding portion 310 is attached. The flexible film 302 is from an inner layer 302a made of polypropylene (30μm thick) and an outer layer 302b made of nylon.

As in 37 (a) shown is the flexible film 302 provided so that it the open portion of the tub section 320 covered while the flexible film 302 is in a flat state. Then heat is applied to the opening peripheral edge 312 through the flexible film 302 exercised. As a result, only the inner layer melts 302a and is heated by the opening peripheral edge 312 merged. Next, as in 37 (b) is shown, a vacuum device, not shown, with the ink supply hole 260 connected in fluid communication with the tub portion 320 stands. The vacuum device is used to empty air and other gases from the space between the flexible film 302 and the tub section 320 for developing a vacuum state in the Room. Atmospheric pressure acting on the flexible film 302 from the outside, moves the flexible film 302 in close contact with the tub section 320 , At the same time as the vacuum is applied, heat is applied to the flexible film 302 applied anywhere by an external heat source (not shown) that overlies the flexible film 302 is provided. As a result, the flexible film deforms 302 plastically into a shape corresponding to the tub section 320 follows. As a result, the flexible film becomes 302 shaped so that it is exactly at the tub section 320 adheres. As a result, the flexible film becomes 302 formed in a mold on the base surface of the tub section 320 is modulated. When ink between the tub section 320 and the flexible film 302 is introduced, the flexible film expands 302 in the direction that takes him from the tub section 320 separates, leaving ink with twice the volume of the tub section 320 can be included. When the ink is used up, the flexible film approaches 302 the tub section 320 , When the ink is completely used up, the flexible film sticks 302 completely on the tub section 320 , As a result, the ink can be completely used up.

Although the nylon is the outer layer 302b is positioned at a position closer to the external heat source (not shown), the nylon does not melt because it has heat resistance. On the other hand, the polypropylene layer of the inner layer deforms 302a only plastically without melting, since it is located far from the external heat source. As a result, the flexible film melts 302 not because of the external heat source, which would be a potential problem if the flexible film 302 made of a single layer of polypropylene.

If an attempt was made, the flexible film 302 by pressing rollers, there is a potential risk of wrinkles in the flexible film 302 could be formed, and ink and air could leak. However, these problems do not occur when the method described above is used.

Further, the present embodiment uses a method in which the curved surface portion 324 even when the mold is used, and the flexible film 302 is used to transmit the shape of the curved surface portion 324 on the flexible film 302 used. Consequently, the curved surface portion 324 be formed in any optional form, and the flexible film 302 can be easily formed to follow the optional form. Consequently, changes in the shape of the tub section 320 easily recorded. The flexi ble film 302 can be prevented from being on the curved surface portion 324 during the heat process described above, in which the plurality of ink injection grooves 330 and the ink supply groove 332 to be formed later, or by forming a grain structure on the curved surface portion 324 ,

Furthermore, fewer processes are necessary than when a plurality of flexible films 302 would be pressed into a bulging shape and then the opening peripheral edge 312 would be attached. Therefore, the risk is that foreign matter enters the ink receiving section 300 enter, decreased. Further, a simple plant is sufficient because no separate metal mold is needed for a pressing operation.

It should be noted that the inner layer 302a and the outer layer 302b can be made of two types of polypropylene with different properties, in which the outer layer 302b is made of an additive polypropylene that is difficult to melt, instead of nylon, and the inner layer 302a from a non-additive polypropylene.

As in 38 can be shown a shape 400 on the tub section 320 be provided. Form 400 is provided separately, and has a concave shape, which is symmetrical to the shape of the trough portion 320 is. In this case, after the flexible film 302 with heat with the opening peripheral edge 312 fused in a flat state, compressed air between the flexible film 302 the tub section 320 through the ink delivery hole 260 dented while the shape 400 is heated. As a result, the flexible film expands 302 out, and the desired shape of the form 400 becomes the flexible film 302 transfer. It should be noted that the pressure in the space between the flexible film 302 and the shape 400 can be reduced instead of increasing the pressure within the internal space between the flexible film 302 and the tub section 320 by pushing air into the room.

Next, the method of injecting ink between the tub portion 320 and the flexible film 302 (Ink receiving portion 300 ) formed in the bulging shape will be described below with reference to FIG 39 (a) and 39 (b) explained.

As in 39 (a) is shown, are a backflow prevention valve 264 and the ink delivery rubber plug 262 (Silicone rubber bush) within the ink supply hole 260 intended. An ink injection rubber stopper 272 (Silicone rubber bush) is inside the ink injection hole 270 intended. The ink injection rubber stopper 272 is with the inks delivery rubber stoppers 262 through a connecting section 266 connected. An ink injection needle insertion groove 264 and a stopper tip 276 are in the ink injection rubber plug 272 formed at staggered positions. Although the rubber stopper 262 . 272 punctured by needles in a manner to be described later, point the rubber stoppers 262 . 272 the quality of flow of the pierced portion by their own elasticity after the needles are pulled out.

First, like, in 39 (a) is shown, the ink delivery rubber plug 262 and the ink injection rubber stopper 272 in engagement with the ink supply hole 260 and the ink injection hole 270 brought. The ink injection rubber stopper 272 is partially in the ink injection hole 270 fitted to the condition in which the stopper tip 276 from the ink injection connection pathway 278 is disconnected. While the front surface wall 234 of the main housing 230 is in a position pointing vertically upward, penetrates a hollow air removal needle 502 the ink delivery rubber plug 662 , and an ink injection needle 504 Penetrates the ink injection rubber stopper 272 until the needles 502 . 504 in the internal recessed portions of the respective rubber plugs are open. The hollow air removal needle 502 is in fluid communication with an air removal vacuum pump, not shown, and the ink injection needle 504 is in fluid communication with an ink pump. Air is taken from the inside of the ink receiving portion 300 through the ink delivery hole 260 pulled to create a vacuum within the ink receiving portion 300 , Then, the ink pump becomes for injecting ink into the ink injection hole 270 actuated. Since the ink injection needle insertion recess 274 so narrow, it is impossible, all in the ink injection needle insertion recess 274 Remaining air, regardless of how high a vacuum is made. Furthermore, there is a danger of air in the ink receiving portion 300 mixes that the air bulges out and causes a false detection in the balance or prevents the supply of ink to the head. For this reason, the ink injection rubber plug becomes 272 completely into the ink injection hole 270 pressed after the ink injection is completed. As in 39 (b) As shown, this results in the teat tip 276 completely the ink injection connection pathway 278 blocked. Consequently, the small amount of air inside the ink injection needle insertion well becomes 274 is prevented from getting inside the ink receiving portion 300 penetrate.

As in 15 is shown, the ink injection groove 330 in fluid communication with the ink injection hole 270 (the ink injection connection pathway 278 ) and is formed so as to suit the curved surface portion 324 so follows that ink around the tub section 320 flows. When ink is injected, the ink follows the ink injection groove 330 and enters the tub section 320 one. Therefore, the air removal is enhanced. An air removal / ink supply groove 332 is in fluid communication with the ink supply hole 260 (the ink delivery connection pathway 268 ), it is formed to suit the curved surface section 324 and further, it is in fluid communication with the ink introduction groove 330 , Therefore, the air is more easily removed during the air removal. That is, even if the flexible film 302 close to the curved surface section 324 during air removal, the air from the entire ink receiving portion 300 be removed because an air removal space through the air removal / ink supply groove 332 is open. It should be noted that each valley-shaped surface has the ability to remove air from the ink receiving portion 300 can amplify. For example, instead of or in addition to the air removal / ink supply groove 332 the tub section 320 be formed with a granular surface, whereby valleys are formed between the grains of the granular surface. The valleys are in fluid communication with the ink injection groove 330 and thus increase the air distance. Likewise, the enclosing edge 322 or protrusions around the lowest position of the curved surface portion 324 extend, that is, the hemispherical pivot point 365 such that ink flow can be uniquely controlled when ink is supplied to the ink jet head. For example, ink can be easily pulled out of the lowermost position, even if only little ink remains, and the force with which the flexible film 302 and the curved surface portion 324 can stick together, can be reduced, so that an increase in the back pressure can be prevented.

After ink into the ink receiving section 300 is introduced, the lid becomes 210 on the main body 230 mounted, and the ink cartridge 200 is finished. After that, the ink cartridge 200 packed in a vacuum packaging. That is, as in 36 shown is the entire ink cartridge 200 gets through a sheet 500 of resin film material and then dumped to a vacuum condition. Since the inkjet head 70 As ink ejects using pressure waves, bubbles in the ink absorb the pressure so that the ink is not ejected properly. The bubbles form and grow over time from the air dissolved in the ink. Therefore, the ink cartridge becomes 200 Vacuum packed to limit the amount of dissolved air in the ink holding the ink cartridge 200 crowded.

The into the ink receiving section 300 inji graced ink already has the ink removed to a certain extent. That is, the amount of the air component of the ink is about 30 to 35% of the saturation amount. The ink receiving section 300 is filled with this ink, and the entire ink cartridge 200 is included in the footage. When a vacuum state is then established within the film material, the air in the ink passes through the flexible film 302 made of polypropylene and nylon, and the wall of the main body, which is made of a resin made of polypropylene, and it is pulled inside the vacuum packing. Air is further removed from the ink in the ink cartridge. After a few days have elapsed, the air component of the ink in the ink cartridge may drop to approximately 20% of saturation. Consequently, ink having a high level of air removal can be provided to users by providing the ink cartridge to users in a vacuum packed state.

If the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S, becomes the hollow ink introduction needle 82 in the ink delivery rubber plug 262 of the ink delivery hole 260 introduced. The hollow ink introduction needle 82 is in fluid communication with the ink jet head 70 through the buffer tank 84 and the ink supply tube T.A., which is dissolved in the ink, bubbles over time and adheres to the inner walls of the buffer tank 84 and the ink supply tube T. The bubbles can grow even larger during changes in temperature and the like. The backflow prevention valve 264 in the ink supply hole 260 is designed to be the ink delivery hole 260 blocked, even if a slight external pressure is applied. As a result, the backflow prevention valve closes 264 even if bubbles in the buffer tank 84 and the ink delivery tube T grow, allowing a slight pressure on the backflow prevention valve 264 is exercised. On the other hand, the backflow prevention valve moves 264 free with respect to the pull of ink through the piezoelectric ink-jet head 70 , For this reason, although the backflow prevention valve closes 264 Any amount of ink can deliver that backflow prevention valve 264 by the pressure applied by the bubbles so that the bubbles can be prevented from entering the ink receiving portion 300 to penetrate the ink cartridge. Consequently, problems such as bubbles entering the ink cartridge and bubbles entering the head from the ink cartridge and causing erroneous ejections can be prevented.

In the present embodiment, the ink injection hole 270 and the ink delivery hole 260 separately provided so as to open in the left-right direction on the front surface of the ink cartridge. Only a single hole is provided in the front surface of the ink cartridge. If vacuum activities, ink injection, and ink delivery are all performed through this hole, then the same rubber stopper mounted in the hole would be pierced by the needles three times. The hole diameter itself would be increased to ensure that the needles pierce three different locations. According to the present invention, each hole may have a small diameter because the holes for ink injection and ink supply are divided separately. The ink cartridge can be made thin because these holes are aligned in the left-right direction.

So that the ink delivery hole 260 Also, to create a vacuum during ink injection, the position at which the hollow air removal needle should be used should be 502 the ink delivery rubber plug 262 penetrates, be different from the position at which the hollow ink introduction needle 82 the ink delivery rubber plug 262 Penetrates when the ink cartridge 200 is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion S. According to the present invention, as in 20 shown is the ink supply hole 260 in the front surface wall 234 arranged in the substantially in the center in the height direction and the width direction. Since the projecting portion 235 in the approximate center in the width direction of the front surface wall 234 is formed, the height (thickness) of the ink cartridge 200 larger at the protrusion portion 235 as at the broad ends. Therefore, the ink supply hole can 260 with a larger diameter, and the ink supply rubber stopper 262 can be made with a larger diameter. The hollow air removal needle 502 can easily in a position of ink delivery rubber plug 262 which differs from the position indicated by the hollow ink introduction needle 82 is punctured.

The ink cartridge 200 according to the present embodiment is sealed in a vacuum packaging. At this time, pressure is applied to the main body and the lid 210 compresses. In order to withstand this pressure, according to the present embodiment, the spherical outwardly curved portion 212 of the lid 210 and the tub section 320 formed in an approximately curved shape and a configuration that is reinforced by ribs.

As in 40 is shown, according to the present embodiment, the spherical curved portion 212 of the lid 210 formed so that the ink receiving peripheral portion 216 at the periphery of the spherical outwardly curved portion 212 a little outside the interior edge of the opening peripheral edge 312 the side of the main body is positioned. That is, an inner peripheral edge portion 216a of the ink receiving peripheral portion 216 is the middle portion of the outer edge and the inner edge of the opening peripheral edge 312 across from. When the inner peripheral edge portion 216a to the inside of the inner circumference of the opening peripheral edge 312 positioned, there is a danger that the inner peripheral edge portion 216a against the flexible film 302 bumps and damages it when the lid is open 210 and the tub section 320 approach each other under the force of the vacuum packing. According to the present embodiment, however, the lid abuts 210 against the position just outside the inner edge of the opening peripheral edge 312 that is from the top of the opening peripheral edge 312 , The flexible film 302 is fixed on the opening peripheral edge 312 welded and with the resin of the main body 230 integrated. As a result, the ink receiving peripheral portion is damaged 216 of the lid 210 not the flexible film 302 even if he is right against the flexible film 302 on the opening peripheral edge 312 encounters.

Next, ink cartridges according to first to twelfth modifications of the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG 41 to 53 (b) described.

41 shows an ink cartridge 200 according to a first modification of the embodiment, wherein the guide groove 236 and the sensor receiving groove 240 open to the side walls 232 are shaped. In this case, the ink cartridge becomes 200 by sliding the guide groove notch recess portion 236 ' led to follow the side surface, the guide projection wall 120 equivalent. 42 shows the configuration of the recording apparatus 1 for the ink cartridge 200 from 41 is modified. The lock release operation rib 150 is near the guide projection wall 120 provided to the side where the hollow ink introduction needle 82 is provided. The section of the front surface wall 234 the ink cartridge 200 , the position below the atmosphere connection hole 280 corresponds, serves as a lock release section 238 ,

43 (a) and 43 (b) show an ink cartridge 200 according to a second modification of the embodiment, wherein a plurality of ribs 243 are arranged in a turtle shell configuration.

44 (a) and 44 (b) show an ink cartridge 200 according to a third modification of the embodiment, wherein the plurality of ribs 243 in a circle concentric with the enclosing edge 322 are arranged.

45 (a) and 45 (b) show an ink cartridge 200 according to a fourth modification of the embodiment, wherein the plurality of ribs 243 are arranged in a diamond shape.

46 (a) and 46 (b) show an ink cartridge 200 according to a fifth modification of the embodiment, wherein the lower surface of the ink cartridge 200 smooth without ribs.

47 (a) and 47 (b) show an ink cartridge 200 according to a sixth modification of the embodiment, wherein the gripping portion 202 and the side walls 232 shaped differently than in the embodiment.

48 (a) and 48 (b) show an ink cartridge 200 according to a seventh modification of the embodiment, wherein the gripping portion 202 and the side walls 232 shaped differently than in the embodiment.

49 (a) and 49 (b) show an ink cartridge 200 according to an eighth modification of the embodiment, wherein the gripping portion 202 and the side walls 232 shaped differently than in the embodiment.

50 (a) and 50 (b) show an ink cartridge 200 according to a ninth modification of the embodiment, wherein the gripping portion 202 and the side walls 232 shaped differently than in the embodiment.

51 (a) and 51 (b) show an ink cartridge 200 according to a tenth modification of the embodiment, wherein the gripping portion 202 and the side walls 232 shaped differently than in the embodiment.

52 (a) and 52 (b) show an ink cartridge 200 according to an eleventh modification of the embodiment, wherein the section 212 has a turtle shell pattern instead of a spherical outwardly curved shape.

53 (a) and 53 (b) show an ink cartridge 200 according to a twelfth modification of the embodiment, wherein the section 212 has a square shape instead of the spherically outwardly curved shape.

While the Invention in detail with reference to a specific embodiment and Modifications thereof has been described, it is for the skilled person seen that different changes and modifications can be made therein without the invention is left, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims.

For example, the configurations of the needle guard plate 130 , the locking part 180 and the leak prevention lock member 190 not on those in 11 shown limited.

Claims (27)

Combination of a recording device ( 20 ) and an ink cartridge ( 200 ); the recording device ( 20 ): an ink cartridge attachment portion (S); a connection portion (T) for transferring ink to a recording head (Fig. 70 ) supplies; and a sensor section ( 170 ) with a light emission section ( 172 ) and a light receiving section ( 174 ) facing each other, the sensor portion projecting into the ink cartridge mounting portion (S); the ink cartridge ( 200 ) has a portion of an outer shape substantially matching the inside of the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) when the ink cartridge (FIG. 200 ) is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion (S), the portion of the outer mold including a contour that receives the sensor portion; and a light blocking part ( 367 ) provided within the contour of the portion of the outer mold, wherein the light-blocking member (FIG. 367 ) is moved according to the amount of ink in the ink cartridge ( 200 ) so as to enter between the light-emitting portion and the light-receiving portion, or from between the light-emitting portion (FIG. 172 ) and the light receiving section ( 174 ) moved out. A combination according to claim 1, wherein a sensor recess portion (Fig. 240 ) receiving the sensor portion in which the contour is provided. A combination according to claim 1, wherein the outer mold further comprises a sensor recess portion (14). 240 ), which is open in one direction, for connecting an ink supply hole ( 260 ) with the connecting portion (T) in the ink cartridge mounting portion (S), the light blocking member (15) 367 ) in the sensor recess portion (FIG. 240 ) in a direction parallel to a direction for connecting the ink supply hole ( 260 ). A combination according to claim 3, wherein a mounting wall in the sensor recess portion (Fig. 240 ), the mounting wall has an internal groove ( 354 ) extending parallel to the direction of insertion into an opening portion (O) so that the mounting wall is interposed between the light emitting portion (O). 172 ) and the light receiving section ( 174 ), the internal groove ( 354 ) the light blocking part ( 367 ) receives in a movable state. Combination according to Claim 1, in which the recording device ( 20 ) includes: an opening portion (O) having an opening opening in a horizontal direction to the outside; a bottom surface extending in the horizontal direction; a ceiling surface extending in the horizontal direction, the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) being defined by the opening portion (O), the bottom surface, and the ceiling surface; a hollow needle ( 82 ), the ink to a recording head ( 70 ), wherein the hollow needle ( 82 ) is positioned opposite to the opening portion (O) and extends in a needle axial direction; a cover ( 130 ), which selectively uses the hollow needle ( 82 ) is covered and released with respect to the opening portion (O); a lever ( 150 ), the cover ( 130 ) for releasing the needle ( 82 ), whereby the lever ( 150 ) closer to the opening portion (O) than the cover ( 130 ) is positioned; a projecting wall ( 120 ) coming from the ground surface adjacent to the lever (FIG. 150 ) projecting, wherein the projecting wall ( 120 ) extends in the needle axial direction; the axial needle ( 82 ) extends in the needle axial direction; and wherein the ink cartridge ( 200 ) is removably mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) and the ink cartridge ( 200 ) contains; a lower surface adapted to abut against the ground surface and from the opening portion (O) to the hollow needle (FIG. 82 ) of the recording device ( 20 ) slides; a front surface ( 234 ) with an ink supply hole ( 260 ) into which the hollow needle ( 82 ) is to be introduced; a protrusion wall recessed portion (FIG. 236 ), the projecting wall ( 120 ) receives; an operating section ( 238 ) provided at a position adjacent to the protrusion wall recessed portion (FIG. 236 ) and the position of the lever ( 150 ) and for actuating the lever ( 150 ) serves; a sensor recess section (FIG. 240 ), the sensor section ( 170 ) receives; the light blocking part ( 367 ) moves according to the amount of ink in the ink cartridge ( 200 ) remains, the light blocking part ( 367 ) corresponding to the sensor section ( 170 ) is provided so that it in the sensor recess portion ( 240 ) and between the light emitting section ( 172 ) and the light receiving section ( 174 ) is inserted when the ink cartridge ( 200 ) is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion (S), the sensor recess portion (FIG. 240 ) and the protrusion wall recessed portion (FIG. 236 ) open at the front surface ( 234 ) and the lower surface at a position on both sides of the ink supply hole ( 260 ), as seen from the front surface side. Combination according to Claim 5, in which the recording device ( 20 ) includes a plurality of ink cartridge attachment portions (Sc, Sk, Sm, Sy) aligned on the ground surface on substantially the same imaginary plane. A combination according to claim 6, wherein the ink cartridge mounting portions (Sc, Sk, Sm, Sy) are positioned below a transport path for sheets to be picked up by the recording head (5). 70 ) is recorded. A combination according to claim 5, wherein: the recording device ( 20 ) further projecting sections ( 112 ) provided at horizontal ends of the ink cartridge mounting portion (S), the projection portions (15) 112 ) protrude away from the ceiling surface to the floor surface; and the ink cartridge ( 200 ) further has an upper surface ( 212 ) which extends higher to the ceiling surface at portions that extend to between the protrusion portions (Fig. 112 ) of the recording device ( 20 ), as the sections that the protrusion sections ( 112 ), wherein the projection sections ( 112 ) the height position of the ink cartridge ( 200 ) when the ink cartridge ( 200 ) is introduced into the opening portion (O), the projection wall recess portion (FIG. 236 ) and the operating section ( 238 ) near the sections of the ink cartridge ( 200 ) are provided, which the projection portion ( 112 ) of the recording device ( 20 ) correspond. A combination according to claim 5, wherein the bottom surface of the hollow needle ( 82 ) further than the ceiling surface extends away. Combination according to Claim 5, in which the front surface ( 234 ) has a protruding shape, which is higher at portions extending to between the protrusion portions (FIG. 112 ) and lower at portions corresponding to the projection portions ( 112 ), wherein an ink supply hole ( 260 ) substantially in the horizontal center of the higher portion of the front surface ( 234 ) is formed. An ink cartridge according to claim 5, wherein when the recording device ( 20 ) is constructed so that a tip of the opening portion side of the projecting wall ( 120 ) closer to the opening portion (O) than a tip portion of an opening portion side of the sensor portion (FIG. 170 ), one end of the protrusion wall recessed portion (FIG. 236 ) provided at one end of the protrusion wall recessed portion (FIG. 236 ) facing towards the front surface ( 234 ) is open, further from the front surface ( 234 ) is positioned as one end of the sensor recess portion (FIG. 240 ) opposite one end of the sensor recess portion (FIG. 240 ) leading to the front surface ( 234 ) is open. A combination according to claim 1, wherein said recording device includes an opening portion (O) having an opening opening in a horizontal direction to the outside; a bottom surface extending in the horizontal direction; a ceiling surface extending in the horizontal direction; wherein the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) is defined by the opening portion (O), the bottom surface, and the ceiling surface; a hollow needle ( 82 ), the ink to a recording head ( 70 ), wherein the hollow needle ( 82 ) is positioned opposite to the opening portion (O) and extends in a needle axial direction; a cover ( 130 ), which selectively uses the hollow needle ( 82 ) is covered and released with respect to the opening portion (O); a lever ( 150 ), the cover ( 130 ) for releasing the needle ( 82 ), whereby the lever ( 150 ) closer to the opening portion (O) than the cover ( 130 ) is positioned; a projecting wall ( 120 ) coming from the ground surface adjacent to the lever (FIG. 150 ) projecting, wherein the projecting wall ( 120 ) extends in the needle axial direction; where the lever ( 150 ) and the sensor section ( 170 ) protrude from the bottom surface into the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) at two positions defining therebetween an imaginary extension of the axial needle (5). 82 ) extending in the needle axial direction; wherein the ink cartridge ( 200 ) is removably mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion (S), the ink cartridge ( 200 ) has a lower surface which abuts against the bottom surface and slides from the opening portion (O) to the hollow needle (FIG. 82 ) of the recording device ( 20 ) is designed; a front surface ( 234 ) with an ink supply hole ( 260 ) into which the hollow needle ( 82 ) is to be introduced; a protrusion wall recessed portion (FIG. 236 ), the projecting wall ( 120 ) receives; and a sensor recess section (FIG. 240 ), the sensor section ( 170 ), wherein the sensor recess portion ( 240 ) and the protrusion wall recessed portion (FIG. 236 ) open at the front surface ( 234 ) and the lower surface are formed at a position that both sides of the ink supply hole ( 260 ), as seen from the front surface side. Combination according to claim 12, in which when the recording device ( 20 ) Projecting sections ( 112 ) protruding away from the ceiling surface toward the ground surface, the protrusion portions (FIG. 112 ) the height position of the ink cartridge ( 200 ), when the ink cartridge ( 200 ) is introduced into the opening portion (O). Combination according to Claim 1, in which the recording device ( 20 ) includes an opening portion (O) having an opening which opens in a horizontal direction to the outside; a bottom surface extending in the horizontal direction; a ceiling surface extending in the horizontal direction, the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) being defined by the opening portion (O), the bottom surface, and the ceiling surface; a hollow needle ( 82 ), the ink to a recording head ( 70 ), wherein the hollow needle is positioned opposite to the opening portion (O) and extends in a needle axial direction; a cover ( 130 ), which selectively uses the hollow needle ( 82 ) is covered and released with respect to the opening portion (O); a lever ( 150 ) closer to the opening portion (O) than the cover (FIG. 130 ), the lever ( 150 ) for moving the cover ( 130 ) for releasing the needle ( 82 ) projects into the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) from a position which is on the ground surface and which is shifted from the needle axial direction in a direction parallel to the ground surface; and a projecting wall ( 120 ) coming from the ground surface adjacent to the lever (FIG. 150 ) projecting, wherein the projecting wall ( 120 ) extends in the needle axial direction, the lever ( 150 ) projects from the bottom surface into the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) at two positions sandwiching therebetween an imaginary extension of the axial needle extending in the needle axial direction; wherein the ink cartridge ( 20 ) is removably mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion (S), the ink cartridge ( 200 ) has a lower surface which abuts against the bottom surface and slides from the opening portion (O) to the hollow needle (FIG. 82 ) of the recording device ( 20 ) is designed; a front surface ( 234 ) with an ink supply hole ( 260 ), with the hollow needle ( 82 ) connected is; a protrusion wall recessed portion (FIG. 236 ) leading to the front surface ( 234 ) and the ground surface is open for receiving the projecting wall ( 120 ), wherein the protrusion wall recessed portion (FIG. 236 ) with respect to a view from the front surface side of an ink supply hole (FIG. 260 ) is displaced in a direction parallel to the lower surface; and an operating section ( 238 ) provided at a position adjacent to the protrusion wall recessed portion (FIG. 236 ) and the position of the lever ( 150 ) and for operating the lever ( 150 ) serves. Combination according to Claim 14, in which the ink cartridge ( 200 ) further comprises: an upper surface ( 212 ), the ceiling surface of the recording device ( 20 ), and when the ink cartridge ( 200 ) in the recording device ( 20 ), the upper surface ( 212 ) extends higher to the ceiling surface at portions leading to between the protrusion portions ( 112 ) provided on the ceiling surface at horizontal ends of the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) and projecting toward the bottom surface as portions corresponding to the protrusion portions (FIG. 112 ) correspond. An ink cartridge according to claim 15, wherein the front surface ( 234 ) has a protrusion shape higher at portions to be joined between the protrusion portions (FIG. 212 ), and lower at portions corresponding to the projecting portions ( 212 ), the ink supply hole ( 260 ) substantially in the horizontal center at the higher portion of the front surface (FIG. 234 ) is formed. A combination according to claim 1, wherein said recording apparatus includes an opening portion (O) having an opening opening outwardly in a horizontal direction; a bottom surface extending in the horizontal direction; a ceiling surface extending in the horizontal direction, the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) being defined by the opening portion (O), the bottom surface, and the ceiling surface; a right and a left side surface ( 110 ) extending from the ground surface to the ceiling surface; a hollow needle ( 82 ), the ink to a recording head ( 70 ), wherein the hollow needle ( 82 ) is positioned over the opening portion (O) and extends in a needle axial direction; a cover ( 130 ), which selectively uses the hollow needle ( 82 ) is covered and released with respect to the opening portion (O); a projecting wall ( 120 ) positioned on the ground surface, the projecting wall ( 120 ) extends in the needle axial direction; the sensor section ( 170 protruding from the bottom surface into the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) at a position shifted from the needle axial direction in a direction parallel to the bottom surface, the sensor portion (15) 170 ) protrudes from the bottom surface into the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) at two positions defining an imaginary extension of the axial needle (S) therebetween. 82 ) extending in the needle axial direction; wherein the ink cartridge ( 200 ) is removably mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion (S), the ink cartridge ( 200 ) has a lower surface that abuts against the bottom surface and slides from the opening portion (O) to the hollow needle (FIG. 82 ) of the recording device ( 20 ) is designed; a front surface ( 234 ) with an ink supply hole ( 260 ), with the hollow needle ( 82 ) connected is; a sensor recess section (FIG. 240 ) leading to the front surface ( 234 ) and the lower surface is open for receiving the sensor section ( 170 ), wherein the sensor recess portion ( 240 ) with respect to a view from the front surface side of the ink supply hole (FIG. 260 ) is displaced in a direction parallel to the lower surface; and a light blocking part ( 367 ), which moves according to the amount of ink in the ink cartridge ( 200 ) remains the light blocking part ( 367 ) corresponding to the sensor ( 170 ) is provided so that it in the sensor recess portion ( 240 ) and between the light emitting section ( 172 ) and the light receiving section ( 174 ) is inserted when the ink cartridge ( 200 ) is mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion (S). Combination according to Claim 17, in which, when the recording device ( 20 ) includes a plurality of ink cartridge mounting portions (Sc, Sk, Sm, Sy) with a space between left and right side surfaces (FIG. 110 ) of an ink cartridge attachment portion (S), which is different from a distance between left and right side surfaces of another ink cartridge attachment portion (S), a distance between one of the left and right side surfaces (Fig. 110 ) of the ink cartridge ( 200 ) mounted in the one ink cartridge mounting portion (S) and the sensor recess portion (FIG. 214 ) from a distance between one of the left and right side surfaces ( 110 ) of an ink cartridge ( 200 ) mounted in the other ink cartridge mounting portion (S) and the sensor recess portion (FIG. 240 ) is different. Combination according to claim 18, wherein when the recording device ( 20 ) Projecting sections ( 112 ) protruding from the ceiling surface to the floor surface, the ink cartridge ( 200 ) has a height which is defined by a distance between the projecting portions ( 112 ) and the bottom surface of the recording device ( 20 ) is determined when the ink cartridge ( 200 ) is inserted into the opening portion (O). A combination according to claim 18, wherein a mounting wall in said sensor recess portion (Fig. 240 ), the mounting wall has an internal groove ( 354 ) which extends parallel to the direction of insertion into the opening portion (O), so that the mounting wall between the light emission distance (O) ( 172 ) and the light receiving section ( 174 ), the internal groove ( 354 ) the light blocking part ( 367 ) receives in a movable state. Combination according to Claim 1, in which the recording device ( 20 ) includes an opening portion (O) having an opening that opens outwardly in a horizontal direction; a bottom surface extending in the horizontal direction; a ceiling surface extending in the horizontal direction; wherein the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) is defined by the opening portion (O), the bottom surface, and the ceiling surface; the connecting portion (T) injects ink into a recording head ( 70 ), wherein the connection portion (T) is positioned opposite to the opening portion (O) and extends in a connection portion axial direction; and protrusion sections ( 112 ) provided at horizontal ends of the ink cartridge mounting portion (S), the projection portions (15) 112 ) protrude away from the ceiling surface to the floor surface; wherein the ink cartridge ( 200 ) is removably mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion (S), the ink cartridge ( 200 ) has a lower surface for abutting against the bottom surface and sliding from the opening portion (O) to the connecting portion (T) of the recording apparatus (Fig. 20 ) is designed; a front surface ( 234 ) with an ink supply hole ( 260 ) connectable to the connecting portion (T); and an upper surface ( 212 ) which extends higher to the ceiling surface at portions that go to between the protrusion portions (FIG. 212 ) of the recording device ( 20 ), as at portions corresponding to the projecting portions ( 212 ) correspond. Combination according to claim 21, wherein when the recording device ( 20 ) a spring part ( 114 ), which is at a position closer to the side of the joint portion (T) of the ceiling surface than the protrusion portions (FIG. 212 ) and projecting downwardly, an upper surface ( 214 ) is provided, which the projection portion ( 212 ), and in a direction for inserting the ink cartridge (FIG. 200 ) extends into the ink cartridge mounting portion (S) so as to slidably abut against the spring member. Combination according to Claim 21, in which the ink cartridge ( 200 ) further comprising: an ink holding portion ( 310 ), which is provided in an inner section of the sections the upper surface ( 212 ) extending higher to the ceiling surface; and a flexible film ( 302 ) containing the ink holding section ( 310 ) covered. Combination according to Claim 21, in which the front surface ( 234 ) has a protruding shape, the height at portions that go to between the protruding portions ( 112 ) and lower at portions corresponding to the projecting portions ( 112 ), where the ink supply hole ( 260 ) substantially in the horizontal center of the higher portion of the front surface ( 234 ) is formed. Combination according to Claim 1, in which the recording device ( 20 ) includes an opening portion (O) having an opening that opens outwardly in a horizontal direction; a bottom surface extending in the horizontal direction; a ceiling surface extending in the horizontal direction, a plurality of ink cartridge mounting portions (Sc, Sk, Sm, Sy) mutually closest to each other on substantially the same planar surface of the ground surface; a hollow needle ( 82 ), the ink to a recording head ( 70 ), wherein the hollow needle ( 82 ) is positioned opposite to the opening portion (O), the ink cartridge ( 200 ) is removably mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion (S), the ink cartridge ( 200 ): a bottom surface which is for sliding the bottom surface following from the side of the opening portion in a direction for connecting an ink supply hole ( 260 ) is designed with the connecting portion (T); a front surface ( 234 ) with the ink supply hole ( 260 ), with the hollow needle ( 82 ) connects; and a rear end portion on a side opposite to the front surface (FIG. 234 ), wherein the rear end portion of the opening portion (O) is open when the ink cartridge ( 200 ) in an attached state, the rear end portion has a width in a direction in which the plurality of cartridge mounting portions (Sc, Sk, Sm, Sy) are aligned, which is narrower than a width of the front surface (FIG. 234 ). Combination according to Claim 25, in which, when the bottom surface of the recording device ( 20 ) extends farther than the ceiling surface in a direction opposite to the side of the hollow needle, the rear end portion is disposed on a portion of the bottom surface that extends beyond the ceiling surface. Combination according to Claim 1, in which the recording device ( 20 ) includes an opening portion (O) having an opening opening in a horizontal direction to the outside, a bottom surface extending in the horizontal direction; a ceiling surface extending in the horizontal direction with the connection portion (T) positioned opposite to the opening portion (O), the bottom surface extending further than the opening portion (O) in a direction opposite to the side of the connection portion (T), the ink cartridge ( 200 ) is removably mounted in the ink cartridge mounting portion (S), the ink cartridge ( 200 ): a lower surface which is for sliding the bottom surface following from the side of the opening portion in a direction for connecting an ink supply hole ( 260 ) is designed with the connecting portion (T); a front surface ( 234 ) with the ink supply hole ( 260 ), with the hollow needle ( 82 ) connects; and a rear end portion on a side opposite to the front surface (FIG. 234 ), wherein the rear end portion is disposed on a portion of the bottom surface projecting from the opening portion (O), the rear end portion being formed on an upper surface thereof with an upwardly projecting rib (Fig. 214 ) for detecting by a user's finger.