DE9218960U1 - Ink jet recorder - Google Patents

Description

- 1 ~ DESCRIPTION

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Scope of the invention

The invention relates to an ink jet recording apparatus using the ink jet recording method, wherein recording is performed by ejecting ink, and a method of assembling an ink jet recording head therefor.

Related state of the art

Nowadays, a number of printers, facsimile machines, word processors and other information devices are being developed. In these devices, the ink jet recording method is widely used because it provides the possibility of high resolution, high recording speed, and compact manufacture and low cost. Among many other advantages, the possibility of compact construction and operation at low running costs are particularly significant.

As shown in Fig. 20, there is a method in which a head cartridge 1801 integrally constructed with a recording head 1801a and an ink tank 1801b filled with ink is removably mounted on a mounting unit 1802 of an apparatus. However, this method has a disadvantage in that the running cost is high because the recording head in this case is a consumable item. The recording head 1801a still reaches its life when the ink has been completely used up. This is a waste because the recording head 1801a, which is still usable for recording, is thrown away.

There is also a method in which a recording head 1901 and an ink tank 1903 are constructed separately from each other and are interchangeably mounted on the mounting unit 1903 of a recording

drawing apparatus are individually mounted, for example, as shown in Fig. 21. In this method, however, it is necessary to provide the ink supply channel 1904 on the recording apparatus in order to supply ink in the ink tank to the recording head. Consequently, the cost inevitably increases and this also hinders making the apparatus compact. Moreover, when an ink tank containing ink material of different colors is used, mixing of the ink in the ink channels in a recording apparatus takes place even if the recording heads 1901 and ink tanks 1902 are replaced. In order to avoid this mixing, it is necessary that the recording heads 1901, ink tanks 1902 and ink supply channels 1904 are mounted separately for each color on the mounting units 1903.

For example, as shown in Fig. 22, there is also a method in which a recording head 1701 is connected and fixed to the mounting unit 1702 of a recording apparatus, while an ink tank 1703 is removably connected to the aforementioned recording head 1701. However, this method makes it difficult to replace the recording heads with ease when the recording head is damaged. When using ink tanks containing ink materials of different colors, mixing of the ink will also occur in the recording head. Accordingly, the recording heads 1701 in the mounting unit 1702 must be provided separately for each color of the ink.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention has been designed in consideration of the above problems. It is an object of the invention to provide an ink jet recording apparatus which makes it possible to reduce the running cost, replace the ink tanks and recording heads with ease, prevent the ink from being scattered when the recording heads are replaced, and replace ink colors easily without any mixing.

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It is another object of the invention to provide an ink jet recording apparatus which enables reliable connection of the recording head and a carriage when the recording head is mounted on the carriage, while maintaining the ease with which the ink tanks and recording heads are replaced.

It is another object of the invention to provide an ink jet recording apparatus in which the positioning accuracies of the ink tank and the recording head do not influence each other when the ink tank and the recording head are mounted and fixed on a carriage while maintaining the ease with which the ink tanks and the recording heads are replaced.

An embodiment of the invention is characterized by the provision of ink channel means for enabling the ink container and the recording head to be connected to and separated from each other, and the provision of connecting means for enabling the recording head and the recording device to be connected to and separated from each other.

According to such an embodiment, it is possible to reduce the running cost because the recording heads and ink tanks can be selectively replaced, resulting in an improvement in the operating efficiency.

0 The recording heads and ink tanks can also be replaced as one unit; this enables maintenance of the recording heads and ink tanks having different ink colors. In this way, it is possible to change the ink colors simply by replacing these heads and ink tanks as thus obtained.

Since the recording heads and ink tanks can be replaced on a carriage, the operability is still

improves print quality while preventing ink from scattering.

In addition, there is less chance of the recording head being directly touched by the hand. Therefore, it is possible to prevent dust particles and air from mixing with the ink, thereby improving the recording reliability.

According to another embodiment of an ink jet recording apparatus of the invention, there are provided an ink channel connection unit for allowing the ink tank and the recording head to be connected to and separated from each other, and a connection unit for allowing the recording head and the mounting unit to be connected to and separated from each other, the ink channel connection unit being constructed so as to enable the ink tank and the recording head to be connected to and separated from each other in at least two directions or more.

According to such an embodiment, the recording head can be mounted regardless of the mounting directions of the ink tank, thereby enabling the selection of the ink jetting direction, with the result that the mounting direction of the apparatus is not limited. This provides flexibility for this purpose.

Since the ink tank is mounted on the carrier, there is also no need for the provision of any ink supply pipes and other components. This will enable the device to be made compact. Moreover, when the ink is completely used up, it is sufficient to replace only the ink tanks and not the cartridge with which the head is made as one piece. This can reduce running costs.

If either the recording head or the ink tank needs to be replaced, it is also good enough to replace only one of

both where replacement is required. This improves operational efficiency.

When replacing the recording heads, it is also simple to separate the carrier and carriage. This will make replacement easier.

In addition, it is possible to use only one type of recording head for different types of head cartridge, allowing its application to many different types of recording devices. This improves versatility to provide desirable efficiency.

According to another embodiment of an ink jet recording apparatus of the invention, an ink jet recording apparatus which records by ejecting ink is characterized in that a recording head and an ink tank are separable and replaceable, and that the aforesaid recording head can be connected to a carriage which carries the recording head in a predetermined direction by pressing the aforesaid recording head.

According to such an embodiment, regardless of whether the recording head is connected to the ink tank or not, the recording head is directly pressed against the carriage without any interposition of other members. Consequently, the accuracy with which the recording head and the carriage are positioned is greatly improved. At the same time, the contact reliability of the electrical connection for supplying power from the recording device to the recording head is remarkably improved to obtain an ink jet recording device having a replaceable ink tank/head and remarkable reliability as well as extremely high recording quality.

According to another ink jet recording apparatus embodying the invention, an ink jet recording apparatus

device which performs recording by ejecting ink, constructed so that the ink tank and the recording head are separated, and is characterized in that the aforesaid ink tank and recording head can each be mounted on a carriage by separate means.

With such an embodiment as this, it becomes possible to mount a most suitable ink tank without deteriorating the accuracy with which a recording head is mounted on the carriage because the recording head and the replaceable ink tank are arranged independently of each other, thereby enabling the realization of an ink jet recording apparatus which exhibits desirable recording quality as well as remarkable reliability and which can be operated at a low running cost.

Another ink jet recording apparatus embodying the invention is characterized as follows:

(1) A member is arranged to detachably mount an ink jet cartridge on a carrier and to hold it on the carrier for the aforementioned ink jet cartridge.

(2) In an ink jet recording apparatus, an ink jet cartridge is divided into a recording head and an ink tank which are separately constructed, and a recording head is provided with a member for detachably mounting the recording head in a substrate and holding it on the substrate.

(3) In the ink jet cartridge described in paragraph (2), an ink tank is provided with a member for detachably mounting the ink tank in the carrier and holding it in the carrier.

In such an embodiment as this, an element is arranged on an inkjet cartridge to control the ink

to detachably mount a laser beam cartridge on a carrier and to hold it in the carrier. Accordingly, it becomes unnecessary for the carrier to be provided with such a member; thereby, the finished product can be made compact with a simple structure and improved operability.

According to another embodiment of an ink jet recording apparatus of the invention, in an ink jet recording apparatus which performs recording by ejecting ink onto a recording medium, there is provided a carriage for mounting the aforementioned recording head, which is moved along the aforementioned recording medium; and an ink tank which is detachably mountable on the aforementioned recording head. Such an ink jet recording apparatus is characterized in that means for regulating the direction in which the aforementioned ink tank is moved toward the recording head is arranged on the aforementioned carriage or ink tank or the carriage and the ink tank.

According to such an embodiment as this, the means for regulating the direction in which the aforesaid container is moved toward the recording head is arranged on the carriage and/or the ink container, whereby the ink container is prevented from causing damage to the recording head even if an additional force is applied by an operator when the ink container is mounted or if the ink container is erroneously pressed because the ink container is regulated before the ink container imparts such pressure to the recording head. ~™

Another ink jet recording apparatus embodying the invention is characterized in that the head is provided with an ink supply inlet for supplying ink to an ink cartridge, and a member for positioning the head and the ink cartridge is provided, and characterized in that the ink supply inlet is cylindrically shaped with a desirable sealing ability, while

a separate element is provided to position the ink cartridge and the head.

According to another embodiment of the ink jet recording apparatus of the invention, in an ink jet recording apparatus which performs recording by a recording head which ejects ink onto a recording medium, there is provided a carriage on which the above-mentioned recording head is mounted, which is moved along the above-mentioned recording medium, an ink container is detachably mountable to the above-mentioned recording head, and means for regulating the mounting direction of the above-mentioned ink container on the carriage is arranged in only one of the above-mentioned carriage or the ink container or the carriage and the ink container.

According to such an embodiment as this, means is provided for regulating the mounting direction of the ink tank on the carriage in only one way so as to avoid the occurrence of any errors when the mounting direction of the ink tank with respect to the carriage is selected, as well as to prevent any damage to the recording head due to an incorrect mounting of the ink tank.

According to another embodiment of an ink jet recording apparatus of the invention, an ink jet recording apparatus in which an ink container is connected to a recording head when the recording head is mounted in the recording apparatus is characterized in that an indicator is provided to indicate that the recording head and the ink container have been correctly connected.

According to such an embodiment as this, it is possible to securely connect the ink tank and the recording head by performing the connecting operation until positioning indicators or positioning clutches provided on the ink tank and the recording head are brought into coincident positions or are operated.

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Another ink jet recording apparatus embodying the invention is characterized as follows:

(1) An absorbent is provided near the area where the recording head of the above-mentioned ink jet cartridge and the ink tank are connected.

(2) A groove is provided near the area where the recording head of the above-mentioned ink jet cartridge and the ink tank are connected.

(3) The vicinity of the area where the recording head of the above-mentioned ink jet cartridge and the ink tank are connected is treated with hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity.

According to such an embodiment as this, it is possible to prevent ink leakage or ink splashing by providing the absorbent, the groove and the water-attracting and/or water-repellent treatment. Thereby, an ink-jet recording apparatus can be provided which contributes to improving the reliability and safety of a finished product.

In another ink jet recording apparatus embodying the invention, in which recording is carried out by ejecting ink onto a recording medium, such an ink jet recording apparatus is characterized by comprising: a recording head for ejecting ink; an ink container containing ink to be supplied to the above-mentioned recording head and which is detachable together with the above-mentioned recording head with respect to the above-mentioned ink jet recording apparatus, the ink container being in detachable interrelation with the above-mentioned recording head; detection means for detecting whether or not the ink container is mounted in the ink jet recording apparatus; and control means for controlling the recording operation of the ink jet recording apparatus to

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on the basis of the results recorded by the aforementioned recording device.

It should also be more preferably characterized in that the aforementioned detecting means doubles as detecting means for detecting the amount of ink in the aforementioned ink tank.

According to such an embodiment as this, it becomes possible to suppress any recording operation of the ink jet recording apparatus when the ink tank is not mounted; thereby making it possible to prevent ink run-out or the like in the middle of the recording operation.
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Even if an empty ink tank is accidentally mounted for recording, such operation can also be prevented; thereby making it possible to prevent air from mixing in the recording head or ink from leaking out of the recording head.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing an embodiment of an ink jet recording apparatus according to the invention.

Fig. 2 is a schematic partial enlargement showing the embodiment in perspective. 30

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a partial enlargement of the embodiment.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing a first 5 mode of operation of an interchangeable structure according to the embodiment.

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Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a second mode of operation of an interchangeable structure according to the embodiment.

Fig. 6 is a schematic plan view illustrating the manner in which pressure is applied by the embodiment.

Fig. 7 is a perspective view schematically showing the entire body of a recording apparatus for an ink jet recording apparatus embodying the invention.

Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a replaceable ink tank according to the embodiment.

Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing an example of an ink jet recording apparatus to which the invention is applicable.
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Figures 10A and 10B are schematic perspective views illustrating an information processing apparatus using an ink jet recording apparatus according to the invention.
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Fig. 11 is an electrical circuit diagram showing an information processing apparatus using an ink jet recording apparatus according to the invention.

0 Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing the recording process according to the embodiment.

Fig. 13 is a schematic plan view showing another embodiment.
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Fig. 14 is a schematic plan view showing a second construction according to another embodiment.

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Figures 15A, 15B and 15C are schematic cross-sectional views showing the structure of still other embodiments.

Fig. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the structure of the embodiment shown in Fig. 15.

Figures 17A and 17B are schematic cross-sectional views showing the structure of another embodiment.

Figures 18A and 18B are schematic plan views showing yet another embodiment.

Fig. 19 is an electrical circuit diagram showing the structure of still another embodiment.

Fig. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a prior art.
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Fig. 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a prior art.

Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a prior art.

Fig. 23 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the state in which a replaceable recording head and a replaceable ink tank according to another embodiment are mounted on a carriage.

Fig. 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an assembly sequence.

Fig. 25 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a replaceable container.

Fig. 26 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state in which a replaceable recording head

and a replaceable ink tank according to another embodiment are mounted on a carriage.

Fig. 27 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an assembly sequence of a recording head and a replaceable ink tank.

Fig. 28 is a view illustrating the connection of a recording head and a replaceable ink tank.

Fig. 2 9 is a view showing the recording head according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 26, as seen from the direction in which the ink is ejected. 15

Fig. 3 0 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state where a replaceable recording head and a replaceable ink tank of still another embodiment are mounted on a carriage. 20

Fig. 31 is a partial sectional view showing the embodiment shown in Fig. 30, viewed from the direction in which ink is ejected.

Fig. 32 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a replaceable container.

Fig. 33 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the state in which a replaceable recording head and a replaceable ink tank according to still another embodiment are mounted on a carriage.

Fig. 34 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an assembly sequence of a recording head and a replaceable ink tank.

Fig. 35 is a partial sectional view showing the embodiment shown in Fig. 33, viewed from the direction in which ink is ejected.

Fig. 36 is a schematic perspective view showing another embodiment.

Fig. 3 7 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which the head cartridge shown in Fig. 3 6 is mounted on a carrier.

Fig. 38 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the connecting portion of the ink channel shown in Fig. 36.

Figures 39A and 39B are cross-sectional views showing the structure of another embodiment. 15

Fig. 4 0 is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of still another embodiment.

Fig. 41 is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of another embodiment.

Fig. 42 is an exploded view illustrating a carrier and an ink jet cartridge according to another embodiment.
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Fig. 43 is a view illustrating the operation of an inkjet cartridge mounting and holding arm.

Fig. 44 is an exploded view showing a carriage 0 and an ink jet cartridge according to still another embodiment. "

Fig. 45 is an exploded view illustrating a carriage and an inkjet cartridge according to another embodiment.

Fig. 4 6 is an exploded view showing the ink jet cartridge shown in Fig. 45.

Fig. 47 is an exploded view illustrating a carrier and an inkjet cartridge according to still another embodiment.

Fig- 48 is a schematic perspective view showing a carriage before an ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 49 is a schematic perspective view showing the carriage after the ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 50 is a schematic perspective view showing a carriage before an ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 51 is a schematic perspective view showing the carriage after the ink tank is mounted.
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Fig. 52 is a schematic view showing the positional relationships between a recording head, an ink tank groove, and the boss of a carriage lever.

Fig. 53 is a schematic perspective view showing an ink tank.

Fig. 54 is a side view schematically showing an ink tank.
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Fig. 55 is a schematic perspective view showing a carriage before an ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 56 is a schematic perspective view showing the carriage after the ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 57 is a schematic perspective view showing an ink tank.

Fig. 58 is a schematic perspective view showing a carriage before an ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 59 is a schematic perspective view showing the carriage after the ink tank is mounted.

Figures 6OA and 6OB are schematic views illustrating another embodiment.

Fig. 61 is a schematic view showing still another embodiment.

Fig. 62 is a schematic view showing another embodiment.
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Fig. 63 is a schematic perspective view showing a carriage before an ink tank is mounted. .

Fig. 64 is a schematic perspective view showing the carriage while the ink tank is being mounted.

Fig. 65 is a schematic perspective view showing the carriage after the ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 6 6 is a schematic perspective view showing an ink tank.
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Fig. 67 is a schematic perspective view showing a carriage before an ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 68 is a schematic perspective view showing the carriage while the ink tank is being mounted.

Fig. 69 is a schematic perspective view showing the carriage after the ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 70 is a schematic perspective view showing an ink tank.

Fig. 71 is a side view schematically showing the ink tank.

Fig. 72 is a schematic perspective view showing a carriage before an ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 73 is a schematic perspective view showing the carriage after the ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 74 is a schematic perspective view showing an ink tank.
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Fig. 75 is a schematic perspective view showing a carriage before an ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 76 is a schematic perspective view showing the carriage after the ink tank is mounted.

Fig. 77 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state where an ink jet recording head and an ink tank are separated according to another embodiment.

Fig. 78 is a schematic perspective view showing the state where the ink jet recording head and the ink tank are connected.

Fig. 79 is a schematic perspective view showing the state where the ink jet recording head and the ink tank are connected.

Fig. 8 0 is a schematic view showing the state where a head cartridge is mounted on a carrier.

Fig. 81 is a schematic view showing the state where a head cartridge is mounted on a carrier.

Fig. 82 is a schematic view showing the state where a head cartridge is mounted on a carrier.
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Fig. 83 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state where a recording head and an ink tank are separated according to still another embodiment.
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Fig. 84 is a schematic view showing the state where the recording head and the ink tank are connected.

Fig. 85 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state where a recording head and an ink tank are connected according to still another embodiment.

Fig. 86 is a schematic perspective view showing another manner in which the recording head, the ink tank and the carrier are connected.

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Fig. 87 is a partial perspective view schematically illustrating the structure of a carrier and an ink-jet cartridge according to another embodiment.

Fig. 88 is a partial perspective view schematically illustrating the structure of a carrier and an ink jet cartridge according to still another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 89 is a partial perspective view schematically showing the structure of an ink jet cartridge according to another embodiment.

Fig. 90 is a partial perspective view showing the structure of the ink jet cartridge.

Fig. 91 is a partial perspective view showing the structure of an ink jet cartridge according to another embodiment.
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Fig. 92 is a partial perspective view showing the structure of an ink cartridge according to still another embodiment.

Fig. 93 is a block diagram showing the setup of the ink tank detection according to another embodiment.

Fig. 94 is a block diagram showing the setup of 0 ink tank detection according to still another embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

5 A detailed description of the embodiments according to the invention follows with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the recording head unit and the carrier unit of a recording apparatus embodying the invention. In Fig. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a recording head which ejects ink in accordance with electric signals; 2, an ink tank containing ink to supply it to the recording head 1; 102, a carrier provided on the recording apparatus body for holding the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2; 106, a head lever for holding or releasing the recording head 1; 107, an ink tank lever for mounting or dismounting the ink tank 2; and 108, a head fixing spring for fixing the recording head 1 on the carrier 102. The recording head unit and the carrier unit are constructed from these components.

Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 according to the embodiment of the invention. In Fig. 2, reference numeral 10 denotes the ink supply inlet serving as the ink channel for the ink to be supplied from the ink tank 2 to the recording head 1; 11, an ink supply outlet for supplying ink from the ink tank 2 to the recording head 1; 12, connecting tabs for guiding and holding the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 when they are integrally connected; 13, connecting tab guide grooves engaging with the connecting tabs 12; and 14, ink tank holding grooves for holding the ink tank 2 when the ink tank 2 and the recording head 1 are assembled or disassembled. A head cartridge 101 is constructed of these elements.

The recording head 1 comprises a substrate on which are formed a plurality of electrothermal transducers that generate thermal energy used to eject ink, and a circuit for driving them; outlet ports and liquid channels corresponding to each of the above-mentioned plurality of electrothermal transducers; and further a cover plate laminated to form a common

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liquid chamber conductively connected to each of the liquid channels. Then, the recording head thus constructed is mounted on the apparatus so that the outlet port surface with the outlet ports of the head is arranged opposite to a recording medium.

The ink tank 2 is a tank which holds ink therein and appropriately supplies it to the recording head to replenish the ink consumed by recording. When two individual bodies form an ink tank, the ink supply outlet 11 is sealed by sealing means (not shown) to prevent any leakage of ink. These sealing means are automatically or manually released when the ink tank is connected to the recording head 1 to enable ink supply. It may also be possible to arrange a mechanism so that air is introduced from the outside when the volume of ink is reduced by ink consumption. Further, it may be possible to provide a mechanism in the inside to maintain a pressure which is slightly negatively applied to the ink supplied to the recording head with the aim of improving the print quality as well as preventing any leakage of ink.

The recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 are used in the recording apparatus in the form of a cartridge 101 which is manufactured as an assembly therewith. The manner in which these are assembled will now be described.

Essentially, the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 are assembled by connecting the ink supply inlet 10 and the ink supply outlet 11. Therefore, this portion is carefully arranged to prevent ink leakage from or air entry into the ink channels. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 13A, a method is adopted to utilize the elasticity of a mold member for this purpose. In other words, the ink supply inlet hole 10a and the ink supply outlet 11 are

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supply outlet hole 11a is formed cylindrically, with the inner diameter of the ink supply outlet 11a being slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the ink supply inlet hole 10a. Thereby, when the ink supply inlet hole 10a is pressed into the ink supply outlet hole 11a, the two holes are assembled in a close manner while being slightly deformed in the radial direction. The connecting portion is also not necessarily a molded member, but it will suffice if the material only has a sealing ability. Other connecting methods will be described later.

In assembling the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2, while it is good enough to connect the ink supply inlet 10 and the ink supply outlet 11 as described above, the connection is intensified in the embodiment by providing the connecting tabs 12 and the connecting tab guide grooves 13 to prevent them from disengaging due to a simple unexpected force that may be applied when the head cartridge 101 is handled or to simplify the assembly. In other words, the connecting tabs 12 which are integrally formed by molding with the ink supply inlet 10 and which are elastically deformable are provided with projections at the leading edges and fitted into the connecting tab guide grooves 13 while being elastically deformed by the portions corresponding to the height of the projections. The connection is completed when the projections of the connecting tabs 12 reach the deepest portions arranged in the rear sides of the connecting tab guide grooves 13.

Further, the connecting tabs 12 serve as guide grooves to allow the ink supply inlet 10 and the ink supply outlet 11 to be easily aligned when the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 are connected. In other words, the connecting tabs 12 are longer than the ink supply inlet 10 so that the connecting tabs 12 must contact the ink tank 2 before the ink supply inlet 10 reaches the ink supply outlet 11. Here, the leading

the edges of the connecting tabs 12 are diagonally beveled. This diagonal beveled portion serves as its guide in the direction shown by an arrow a in Fig. 2 to facilitate engagement with the connecting tab guide grooves. Also, the projections provided on the leading edges of the connecting tabs 12 are diagonally beveled to promote easier engagement by serving as a guide in the direction shown by an arrow b in Fig. 2.

While the connecting tabs in this respect are provided on the side of the recording head in the present embodiment, their location is not limited thereto. It may be possible to arrange them on the side of the ink tank 2 or on both sides of the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2.

The following is a description of the mechanical and electrical connections of the recording head 1 to the carrier 102.

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the portion where the carrier 102 is connected to the recording head 1, viewed from the direction indicated by an arrow a in Fig. 1. In Fig. 3, a reference numeral 109 denotes a positioning pin fitted into a hole provided on the recording head 1 fixed to the carrier 102 to adjust the position in the vertical direction in Fig. 3 and in the direction perpendicular to the plane thereof; 110 a stopper fixed to the carrier 102 to receive the recording head 1 pressed in the direction indicated by an arrow a in Fig. 3; 401 a flexible cable electrically connecting the recording apparatus body and the recording head 1; 111, a cushion inserted between the flexible cable 401 and the support 102 to elastically support the flexible cable 401; and 15, a contact provided on the recording head 1 and electrically connected to a heating unit in the recording head 1.

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The recording head is pushed in the direction indicated by an arrow a by means of the head fixing spring 108 by a lever not shown. Its position is finally determined by the hole provided in the recording head 1, the positioning pin 109 and the intermediate position of the stopper 110. In this way, the recording head 1 and the carrier 102 are mechanically connected.

Also, a plurality of electrical contact points are arranged on the contact 15 of the recording head 1 and the end of the flexible cable 401 in opposing positions. By being pressed with a predetermined pressure, the recording apparatus body and the recording head 1 are electrically connected. In this meeting, the plurality of electrical contact points must be pressed together in contact. Finally, the pad 111 made of an elastic material is inserted into the compressed portion to evenly press these contact points. The material of the pad 111 is made of, for example, silicon rubber, and is arranged so that the reaction force exerted by the depression is much smaller than the force exerted by the head fixing spring 108 pressing the recording head 1.

In particular, the electrical contact provided on the flexible cable 401 can be extended in assembly to cause an increase in the reaction force when depressed, so that the connection becomes reliable.

In this connection, the electrical or mechanical connections are arranged on the side of the recording head in the present embodiment. Regardless of this arrangement, the connections may be arranged on the side of the ink tank 2 or on both sides of the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2. It may also be possible to arrange the electrical connections and the mechanical connections separately on each side.

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The following is a description of the handling of the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2, that is, the procedure according to which a used ink tank 2 is replaced with a new ink tank 2, or according to which the recording head 1 which cannot be used any more for some reason is replaced.

In a first operation mode, the fixation between the recording head 1 and the carrier 102 is released. The recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 are removed from the carrier 102 while they are still in the connected state. Then, in a state in which they are detached from the carrier 102 (hereinafter referred to as a carrier-free state), the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 are separated or connected.

Fig. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 are removed from the carrier 102 while they are still in a connected state. In this state, the head lever 106 is pulled rotationally in the direction indicated by an arrow a from the state shown in Fig. 1 to the position shown in Fig. 4A. This releases the pressure exerted on the recording head 1 by the head fixing spring 10 8. In this encounter, the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2, while they are still in a connected state, are displaced in the direction indicated by an arrow b by a lever (not shown) arranged on the carrier 102. This causes the engagement between the positioning pin 10 9 and the hole of the recording head 1 to be released; therefore, the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 can be displaced in the direction indicated by an arrow c in Fig. 4 while they are still in a bonded state, and they can be in a carrier-free state. In the carrier-free state, a force is applied in a direction opposite to the direction in which the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 are bonded to separate them

and replace the one that needs replacing. Then, by the previously described joining method, both are assembled and mounted on the support 102 in reverse order to complete the replacement process. 5

In this regard, in the present embodiment, the head lever 106 is used to release the pressure applied to the recording head 1. Regardless of this method, it may be possible to make an arrangement in which the lever that presses the recording head 1 can be directly slid. Also, regardless of the methods in which the head fixing spring 108 is used to press the recording head to fix it, it is possible to use a locking hook or the like having a spring property for head fixing.

Furthermore, it is possible to mount or dismount the recording head 1 and ink tank 2 in the connected state by holding the recording head 1 directly against the pressure exerted by such a pressing device.

When the first operating mode is adjusted, the following effects are available:
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When either the recording head or the ink tank needs to be replaced, it is possible to replace only the one that needs to be replaced. Therefore, operational efficiency is improved.
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The recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 can also be replaced while they are in the bonded state. The recording heads and ink tanks with different colors can be kept together when they are in the carrierless state. This makes it easy to replace recording colors.

In a second operating mode, the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 on the carrier 102 are separated,

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while the recording head 1 and the carrier remain fixed to each other (hereinafter referred to as carrier-fixed state).

Fig. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which the ink tank 2 is separated from the recording head 1 on the carrier 102. In this case, by pulling the tank lever 107 upward from the state shown in Fig. 1 to the position shown in Fig. 5A while rotating it in the direction indicated by an arrow a, a lever (not shown) arranged on the carrier 102 engages with the ink tank guide groove 14 provided on the side of the ink tank 2 and is displaced in the direction indicated by an arrow b in Fig. 5. In this coincidence, the fixation of the recording head 1 is in the same state as in Fig. 1, and it is not displaced together with the ink tank 2. Accordingly, the engagement between the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 is released, thereby enabling separation of the two. By further allowing the ink container 2 to be displaced in the direction indicated by an arrow c in Fig. 5, it can be removed from the carrier 102.

5 In this regard, when the recording head 1 is elastically pressed by the head fixing spring 108 as in the present embodiment, there is a possibility that the head fixing is released depending on the manner in which the separating force is applied. It is preferable to arrange the structure as follows:

Fig. 6 is a schematic plan view showing the manner in which such a force is applied. In Fig. 6, the recording head 1 is pressed by a force fl applied to the carrier 102 by a head fixing spring 108. It is also assumed that a force f2 is necessary to release the connecting tabs 12 and the ink supply inlet 10 to separate the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2. In this state, it is possible to prevent

the fixation of the recording head 1 is released during the separation process by defining the strength of the forces to fl > f2.

Here, in the present embodiment, the separation is carried out by applying a force equal to the force f2 by using a tank lever 107. Regardless of this method, it may be possible to arrange the structure so that the ink tank is pulled upward in the direction indicated by an arrow b in Fig. 5 by directly holding it to separate the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2.

When the second operating mode is adapted, the following effects exist in addition to those available through the first operating mode:

It is possible to control the speed at which the ink tank is drawn out when it is separated by designing the cam configuration of the tank lever 107; thereby making it possible to prevent the ink from scattering from the ink supply inlet 10 and the ink supply outlet 11.

There is also no need for the recording head 1 to be directly held by hand. Accordingly, there is no possibility of a hand touching the vicinity of the ink ejection nozzles of the recording head 1. Therefore, it is possible to prevent any undesirable contamination which may produce a negative effect on printing.

Also, the portion where the force is applied by the ink tank 2 can be specified precisely. Therefore, it is sufficient if only such a portion is reinforced. 5 All other portions can be made thin to make the ink tank lighter, resulting in a larger ink storage capacity among other effects.

The following is a description of the structure and operation of a recording apparatus in which the above-mentioned recording head 1, the ink tank 2 and the carrier 102 are mounted.
5

Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view showing the plan of a recording apparatus embodying the invention.

A carrier 102 with a head cartridge 101 mounted thereon has a pin (not shown) which engages with the spiral groove 105 of a lead screw 103 which is interrelated with the normal and reverse rotation of a carrier motor 402a and which is rotated by a transmission mechanism (not shown). As a result, the carrier is reciprocated in the directions indicated by arrows a and b, following the rotation of the lead screw 103. Here, a reference numeral 104 denotes a slide shaft for regulating the rotation of the carrier. The carrier 102 also realizes the position (home position) in the directions indicated by arrows a and b through a carrier sensor 510. A reference numeral 301 denotes a recovery unit which has a cap 302 facing the discharge surface of the head cartridge 101 at a predetermined position (for example, at a home position) outside the recording surface of the head cartridge 101, and a drive (not shown) for advancing and retracting the cap to keep the cap in contact with the discharge surface to protect it when recording is paused or on similar occasions. It is also possible to arrange a pump for sucking out a viscous film of ink, dirt particles and air bubbles from the discharge openings when the cap is in contact with the discharge surface to maintain the ink ejection conditions in a desirable manner, and further an element for receiving such unwanted ink thus sucked out.

Furthermore, a scraper (not shown) is provided to clean the vicinity of the discharge openings of the ink cartridge 101.

A reference numeral 201 denotes a conveyance roller that conveys a recording medium 6 in the directions indicated by an arrow c in Fig. 7, and 202 a pinch roller for pressing the recording medium 6 against the conveyance roller 201. The recording medium 6 is gradually conveyed in the directions indicated by an arrow c in Fig. 7 while being pinched by a pair of these rollers. The conveyance roller 201 is connected to a conveyance motor 402b through a transmission mechanism constituted by a conveyance roller gear 205 and a conveyance roller idler gear 206 to receive the transmission of the driving force. The pinch roller 202 is also capable of being in contact with or separated from the conveyance roller 201 by operating a release lever 201.

A reference numeral 207 denotes a pressing plate for regulating the recording surface of the recording medium 6 so as to be kept flat. It may also be possible to provide a member for preventing the recording medium 6 from being lifted by being pressed against the pressing plate 207.
25

A reference numeral 213 denotes a discharge roller which rotates in synchronism with the conveyance roller 201 to distribute the recording medium 6 after recording in the directions indicated by an arrow c in Fig. 7. A front roller 214 is provided at a position opposite to the discharge roller 213 with respect to the recording medium 6. With these rollers, the recording medium 6 is distributed out of the printer after the completion of recording.

As shown in Fig. 8, the recovery unit comprises: a cap 4021 for covering the discharge surface 4002c of the recording head 4002a; a pump unit 4023 that applies negative pressure to the inside of the cap to suck out from the cap 4021 the waste ink that is forced

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from the discharge surface 402c and to convey it into a waste fluid pipe 4031d; and a transmission mechanism (timing gear) 4024 consisting of a known cam and gear mechanism for transmitting the driving forces to the aforementioned cap 4021, thereby moving it forward and backward with respect to the discharge surface 402c, and for driving the aforementioned pump unit 4023. To the aforementioned timing gear 402c, a rotational driving force of the carriage motor is transmitted through a carriage motor pin 4020.

The pump unit 4023 also includes a plunger pump shown in Fig. 9, in which a reference numeral 4031 denotes a cylinder having a cylindrical portion 4031a and a guide member (not shown) that guides a plunger 4022 described later. Then, it is partially cut open in the axial direction to provide an ink channel; 4031b is a cap lever formed to be receptive to allow the lever seal described later to be inserted. Also, a reference numeral 4031c denotes an ink suction inlet opened to a predetermined position; 4031d a waste ink tube whose integrally formed leading edge is inserted into a waste ink absorbent 4028; also 4031e is a cap opening and closing projection which is pressed by the cap opening and closing cam 4024a of the timing gear 4024 so that the cylinder 4031 is caused to rotate to open and close the cap 4021.

A reference numeral 4022 denotes a plunger which has an operating shaft 4022a, a plunger stopper 4022b, a plunger seat 4022c and a pump seal stopper 4022d. Then, a groove 4022e serving as an ink channel is formed throughout the aforementioned operating shaft 4022a. This groove is partially inserted into the aforementioned guide of the cylinder 4031 to prevent the rotation of the plunger 4022. A guide groove 4022f is formed on the operating shaft 4022a to regulate the reciprocating movement of the plunger 4022. The projection of a lifting tooth (not shown)

gear 4005 is inserted into this guide groove 4022b. Then, by normal and reverse rotation of the lifting gear 4005, a desired amount of lifting is applied to the plunger 4022 to generate the negative pressure.
5

A reference numeral 4032 denotes a piston made of a rubber material such as NBR. Its outer diameter is larger than the inner diameter of the cylinder 4031 by a predetermined amount. It is suitably compressed when inserted into the aforementioned cylinder 4031; 4033 is a pump seal made of a rubber material such as silicon rubber or NBR, which is inserted into the cylinder 4031. Its inner diameter is slightly smaller to obtain a predetermined pressure with respect to the plunger 4022. Furthermore, it can be reciprocated in the cylinder 4031 by being pressed by the pump seal stopper 4022d of the plunger 4022 and the piston seat 4022c. It may also be possible to reduce the sliding friction between the cylinder 4031 and the plunger 4022 by applying a lubricant to the surface of the pump seal.

A reference numeral 4034 denotes a cap lever. An ink guide (not shown) biases the cap lever seal, which will be described later. The other rotary shaft 4034a is rotatably mounted in the hole 4031f of the cylinder 4031 by a snap fit and on a cap lever seal 4035 into which the ink guide of the aforementioned cap lever 4034 is press-fitted. It is further fitted into the cap lever receptacle 4031b of the cylinder 4031.

A reference numeral 4021 denotes a cap made of an annular chrominated butyl rubber or other elastic material having a triangular cross section. It is mounted on a cap mounting unit 4034b of the aforementioned cap lever 4034; also 4024 is a preliminary discharge pad made of a polymeric absorbent like the aforementioned wiper cleaner 4039. It is mounted on the aforementioned cap lever 4034.

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The aforementioned preliminary discharge pad is composed of an absorbent for absorbing the ink that is provisionally discharged besides the main ink discharge for a printing operation. This preliminary ink discharge is performed to prevent ink on the discharge surface 4002c from drying during the printing operation.

The following is a description of the information processing apparatus in which a recording apparatus embodying the present invention is incorporated. Its structure and electrical circuitry are described.

Fig. 10A is a schematic perspective view illustrating the external appearance of an information processing apparatus 604 in which a recording apparatus embodying the present invention is installed.

In Fig. 10A, reference numeral 601 denotes the above-mentioned printing unit; 602 a keyboard provided with keys for inputting letters, numbers and other characters and keys for specifying various commands; and 603 a display unit provided with a display. Fig. 10B is a perspective view showing the external appearance of an information processing apparatus 604 in which a recording device embodying the present invention is installed. In Fig. 10B, reference numeral 605 denotes a window provided for replacing the aforementioned recording head 1 and the ink tank 2; 606 a cover for the window 605 for covering it except during the period of the replacement operation. The window 605 is large enough that a head lever 601 and a tank lever 605 can be operated when the recording head 1 or the ink tank 2 are replaced. A reference numeral 607 denotes a changeover switch for the intended replacement of the recording head 1 or the ink tank 2. When the changeover switch 607 is turned on, a carrier motor 402a is driven to move the carrier 102 to the window position 605 from the previous home position or from the recording field. In this position, when the replacement of the recording head 1 or the ink tank 2 is

heads 1 or the ink tank 2 is completed, the carrier 102 is shifted to its home position when a release switch 608 is turned on. Then, a recovery unit 301 is operated to perform ink suction and ejection or wiping and other recovery operations. This returns the current status to the operation that prevailed before the switch 607 was turned on. Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing the structure of the electric circuits of an information processing apparatus according to the present embodiment.

In Fig. 11, reference numeral 501 denotes a controller for carrying out the main control; 502 a CPU (central processing unit) for a microcomputer mode for carrying out certain procedures, for example; 503 a RAM (read-write memory) for providing development and work areas for text data and image data; 504 a ROM (read-only memory) for storing programs corresponding to the aforementioned procedures; 505 a timer for the CPU 502 for working out execution cycles and for the printing unit 601 for working out timing required when a recording operation is carried out; and 506 an interface unit for connecting signals from the CPU 502 to the peripheral devices.

Reference numeral 507 also denotes a controller for the printing unit 601; 508 a head driver for transmitting recording signals and electric power of the head cartridge 101; 509a and 509b motor drivers for transmitting signals and electric power required to drive a carrier motor 402a and a conveyance motor 402b, respectively; 510 a carrier sensor for detecting the current position of the carrier 102 and determining whether or not the carrier 102 is currently, for example, in its home position; and 511 a paper sensor for detecting the presence of a recording medium 6 so that recording is not performed at any locations other than the recording medium 6 when the recording medium 6 is being inserted or to stop recording at the end of a page.

In addition, reference numeral 605 denotes an external memory such as an FDD (Floppy Disk Drive), HDD (Hard Disk) or RAM card (Read-Write Memory Card) and an external interface for communicating with other information processing devices or for controlling peripheral devices by connecting to internal terminals.

In this regard, an electric power source is provided, although not included in the block diagram shown in Fig. 11, for supplying power to the above-mentioned electric circuits. As such an electric power source, a rechargeable battery, disposable dry cells or an AC converter is available, for example, when the information processing apparatus body is fixed for use.

With the above-mentioned construction of the electric circuits, recordings are performed on the recording medium 6 by the recording unit. Now, using a flow chart shown in Fig. 12, the control sequence of the recording operation will be briefly described.

With a command to start recording by using a recording command button on a display operation unit of a printer body or with an external command to start recording through an external interface a series of procedures are started as follows:

First, in step S1, it is determined whether the display operation unit is in the ON state or not. This is a precautionary measure not to start any recording operation without making necessary preparation on the printer side when an external command to start the recording operation is transmitted mainly by communication. If it is determined here that the display operation unit is in the ON state, the procedure goes to step S2.

In step S2, it is determined in accordance with signals from the paper sensor 511 and other signals whether or not the recording medium 6 is set in the printing unit. This is a precautionary measure not to start printing because if printing is started without a recording medium, ink will be scattered in the printer to stain the device, particularly when an ink-jet printer or the like is used as a recording device, or ink which is a recording medium will be wastefully consumed.

Furthermore, in the step S2, it may be possible to determine whether or not the pinch roller 202 and the conveying roller 201 are released in addition to detecting the presence of the recording medium. This is necessary to prevent any irregular conveying of the recording medium because, when the pinch roller 202 is released, normal conveying is impossible even if the recording medium 210 is set. Whether or not the pinch roller 202 is released can be detected by means of a mechanical switch provided on the release lever or the like. If it is found here that the recording medium is not normally set, the process proceeds to the next step 3.

In step S3, a message is sent to call the attention of an operator to insert the recording medium. Such a message may be sent by lighting up a light in the display operation unit or generating a buzzer sound.

If it is also found in step S3 that the recording medium 6 is inserted, the process proceeds to step S4.
35

In this step, recording is started. By command of the CPU 502, the head driver 508 drives the head cartridge 101. Synchronously, the motor drivers 509a and 509b drive the carrier motor 402a and the conveyor motor 402b, respectively, in order to

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to perform recording while allowing the carrier 102 to be shifted in the main scanning direction, the recording medium to be shifted in the sub-scanning direction, and the recording head 1 to be cleaned, among other things. 5

Finally, in step S5, when there is an instruction by the corresponding signal of the CPU 502, for example, to terminate the recording operation, or when it is determined that no further recording is possible, when the number of recording lines of one page in a predetermined sub-scanning direction has been reached, or when the terminal end of the recording surface of a recording medium 6 is detected by the paper sensor 511, it is decided that the recording operation is terminated and that the procedures for the recording operation are completed.

Then, in step S6, the carrier 102 is returned to its home position as a procedure to terminate the recording operation. This is carried out to cover the ink discharge surface of the recording head 1 for protection in preparation for power off after the termination of the recording operation. Then, for example, the convey motor 402b is driven by a predetermined amount or the convey motor 402b is driven until the time when the paper sensor 510 detects and confirms that the recording medium 6 has been discharged. In this way, the recording medium is discharged. Thereafter, the CPU 502 instructs the display operation unit to display the termination of the recording operation or informs the peripheral devices accordingly through the external interface; thereby, the termination of the recording operation is completed.

As described above, the recording head and the ink tank are separable as in the present embodiment 5. Then, by arranging the structure of the ink jet recording apparatus and performing the separating or joining operation in either the carrier-fixed state or the carrier-free state, the following effects can be obtained:

Since the ink tank is mounted on the carrier, any ink supply tube and the like are no longer necessary. This makes it possible to make the device smaller. 5

Even if the ink is completely used up, it is sufficient to replace only the ink tank and not the cartridge, which is integral with the head. Therefore, it is possible to significantly reduce operating costs. 10

When either the recording head or the ink tank needs to be replaced, it is possible to replace only the one that needs to be replaced, thereby improving operational efficiency.
15

Even when the recording head and the ink tank on the substrate are separated using a lever or the like, it is possible to control the speed at which the separation is carried out; thereby, the ink is prevented from scattering from the ink supply inlet 10 and the ink supply outlet 11.

Even if the recording head and the ink tank are separated on the substrate, there is no need to hold the recording head directly by hand. Accordingly, there is no possibility of a hand touching the vicinity of the nozzles of the recording head 1. This makes it possible to prevent any undesirable contamination which may produce adverse effects in printing.

Even if the recording head and the ink tank are separated on the substrate, the portion to which a force is applied by the ink tank 2 can be specified. Therefore, the structure can be arranged to be made strong enough only at that specific portion. Consequently, all other portions can be made thin; this makes it possible to make the tank lightweight while increasing its volume. Even if ink colors are to be replaced, recording heads and

Ink tanks can be replaced while they are still connected. There is no possibility of ink colors being mixed. Replacement can also be carried out easily.
5.

Fig. 13 is a plan view schematically showing another embodiment according to the invention.

Fig. 13 is a plan view corresponding to a top view of the foregoing embodiment shown in Fig. 1. A reference numeral 112 denotes a head clamp lever for fixing the recording head 1 on the carrier 102; 113 denotes a head contact for electrically connecting the head; and 114 denotes an ink tank pressing lever which is in interrelation with an ink tank lever 107 for carrying out the joining and separating of the ink tank 2. The head unit and the carrier unit of the ink jet recording apparatus each comprise these elements.

In the foregoing embodiment, the recording head 1 is pressed against the stopper 110 in the direction indicated by an arrow a in Fig. 6 to mechanically connect the recording head 1 and the carrier 102 with the pressure applied by the head fixing spring 108. The method of fixing the recording head is not limited to this. It may be possible to employ a method described below.

0 In other words, the head clamp lever 112 is made of a rigid material capable of rotating and moving in parallel, rather than an elastic material for pressing the object. Hereinafter, a description will be given of a method for mounting the recording head on the carrier 102. First, the head clamp lever 112 is retracted to the position indicated by a dashed line. Then, the recording head 1 itself or the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2, which are in the assembled state, are mounted in the position indicated by an arrow a in FIG.

·

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Fig. 13 and is displaced from this state until the leading edge of the recording head 1 abuts against the head contact 113. From this state, the head clamp lever 112 is displaced in the direction indicated by an arrow c in Fig. 13 while rotating, to assume the position indicated by a solid line and is fixed there.

In the head contact 113, an elastic pad 111 is clamped as described in connection with the previous embodiment. Therefore, the recording head is pushed backward in the direction indicated by an arrow b in Fig. 13, but due to the presence of the head clamp lever 112, it cannot be displaced but is fixed there. In this connection, the contact pressure of the head contact 113 is ensured by the force with which it is pushed backward. The separation of the recording head 1 and the carrier 102 can also be carried out in the process opposite to the above, and the extraction is carried out by sliding the two in the direction indicated by an arrow b in Fig. 13.

In this connection, in order to separate the ink tank 2, the ink tank lever 107 (not shown) is operated to cause the ink tank pressing lever 114 to move in the direction indicated by an arrow b in Fig. 13. With the above-mentioned structure, the following effects can be obtained:

0 When the separating operation of the ink tank 2 is carried out in the carrier-fixed state, the force applied to the recording head 1 is absorbed by the head clamp lever 112. Therefore, the recording head 1 is not displaced; thereby, improved reliability is obtained.

Even if only the ink tank 2 is separated in the carrier-fixed state, or if the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 are separated from the carrier 102 in the still connected state, the shift direction as shown by

an arrow b in Fig. 13 is indicated. Therefore, the operability is improved.

Fig. 14 is a plan view schematically showing a method according to another embodiment.

In Fig. 14, reference numeral 115 denotes a head pressing lever which holds a head contact 113 and which can rotate or move in parallel, and 116 denotes a head stopper which is fixed to the inside of the carrier.

According to the present embodiment, the following methods can be adopted to fix the carrier 102 in the recording head 1. The head fixing lever 115 rotatably fixed to the carrier 102 is rotated to the position indicated by a dashed line in Fig. 14. Then, the recording head 1 itself or the recording head connected to the ink tank 2 is inserted in the direction perpendicular to the plane of Fig. 14 so that the projection of the recording head is located between the head stopper 116 and the head pressing lever 115. Then, the head fixing lever 115 is rotated to the position indicated by a solid line, and the head fixing lever 115 is now fixed by means not shown in Fig. 14. In this connection, since an elastic pad 111 is used for the head contact 113 as in the case of the previous embodiment described in Fig. 13, the contact pressure is ensured by the compressed elasticity of the elastic material.

Also, the separation of the recording head 1 and the carrier 10 2 can be carried out by the operation opposite to the above and pulling out is carried out by sliding them in the direction perpendicular to the plane of Figure 14.

In this regard, in order to separate the ink tank 2, the ink tank lever 107 (not shown) is operated to move the ink tank pressing lever 114 in the direction indicated by an arrow b in Fig.

14. With the above mentioned structure the following effects can be obtained:

When the separation of the ink tank 2 is carried out in the carrier-fixed state, the force applied to the recording head 1 is absorbed by the head stopper 116, so that displacement of the recording head 1 is not caused; therefore, improved reliability is obtained.

Figs. 15B, 15C and 16 illustrate connecting the ink channel of the recording head and the ink tank according to still another embodiment of the invention. Fig. 15B shows the case where the ink supply outlet 11b is made of an elastic material such as rubber.

It is possible to make the inner diameter of the ink supply outlet 11b smaller than the outer diameter of the ink supply inlet 10a; thereby, the contact between the ink supply inlet 10a and the ink supply outlet 11b is improved when the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 are connected. Accordingly, the sealing ability of the ink channel is also improved. Further, since a force required to deform the ink supply outlet 11b can be small, it is possible to similarly make the force for mounting and dismounting the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 small.

Fig. 15C shows the case where the ink supply inlet 10c is made ring-shaped with a pointed end, while the ink supply outlet lic is made of an elastic material such as rubber without any hole. When the recording head 1 is separated, the ink supply outlet lic of the ink container 2 closes so that no leakage of ink from the ink supply outlet lic is possible. Therefore, the ink container itself can be handled excellently. Even when the ink container 2 and the recording head 1 are to be connected, the pointed end of the ink supply inlet 10c makes a hole in the ink supply outlet lic to form an ink channel. This enables stable connection of the ink channels while making small the force required to close the ink supply outlet lic.

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container 2 to the recording head or to disconnect it.

Fig. 16 shows the case where guides 10e and He are provided in the direction perpendicular to the direction of the ink passage. By sliding the ink container 2 in the plane perpendicular to the plane of Fig. 16 relative to the recording head, the connection and disconnection are performed. In the connection portion, a sealing member 10f for preventing ink leakage made of an elastic material such as rubber is also provided. When the directions in which the recording head 1 is mounted or dismounted are the same as the directions in which the ink container 2 is mounted or dismounted, the structure is the same as in the previous embodiment. However, such directions are arranged as indicated by arrows a and b in Fig. 16 so that the mounting or dismounting directions of the recording head 1 and the ink container 2 are different. Consequently, the relationship related to the forces as shown in Fig. 6 is eliminated; thereby making it possible to mount or dismount the ink tank 2 and the recording head 1 with a minimum required force.

Figures 17A and 17B show another embodiment according to the invention in which the mounting and dismounting of the ink tank 2 are controlled. Figure 17A shows the state in which neither the recording head 1 nor the ink tank 2 are present, wherein a reference numeral 151 denotes a head detecting lever which is rotated in response to the mounting or dismounting of the recording head 1; 151a denotes a pin which transmits the rotation of the head detecting lever 151 to a rack 152a of a stopper 152; 153 denotes a tank regulating lever for regulating the installation of the ink tank 2. When neither the recording head 1 nor the ink tank 2 are present, both the head detecting lever 151 and the tank regulating lever 153 are arranged by the biasing force exerted by springs or the like (not shown) to control the installation paths of the

ink tank 2 and the recording head 1. Also, the stopper 152 is moved by the head detection lever 151 to the position where it can control the rotation of the tank control lever 153 in the installation direction of the ink tank 2. In other words, when the recording head 1 is being mounted, the installation of the ink tank 2 is blocked by the ink control lever 153. Fig.'17B shows the state in which the recording head 1 is mounted. The head detection lever 151 is rotated due to the installation of the recording head 1 as shown in Fig. 17B. The rotation of the head detection lever 151 is transmitted to the stopper 152 through the pin 151a to release the rotation control of the tank control lever 151 as shown in Fig. 17B. In other words, when the recording head 1 is mounted, installation of the ink tank 2 becomes possible. Consequently, the ink tank 2 can be attached to or detached from the recording head 1. In a case where the arrangement is simple so that only the recording head 1 is mounted on or detached from the carrier 102, installation of the ink tank 2 is also prevented when the recording head 1 is about to be mounted; thereby preventing any misoperation.

Figs. 18A and 18B show still another embodiment according to the invention, in which the mounting and dismounting of the recording head 1 is controlled. Fig. 18A shows the state in which both the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 are installed. The structure is the same as in Fig. 4, but a tank detecting lever 160 is provided under the lower part of the ink tank mounting unit of the bracket 102. The contact portion 160a of the tank detecting lever 160 is controlled by the ink tank 2 so that its position is adjusted while the hook 160b of the tank detecting lever 160 is released from a breakout portion 106a of the head lever 106. This allows the head lever 106 to rotate. When the head lever 106 is rotated in the direction indicated by an arrow at a, the recording head 1 and the ink tank 2 are moved in the direction indicated by an arrow at b, as long as

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ge they are still in the connected state as in the case shown in Fig. 4. This makes it possible to remove them. Fig. 18B shows the state in which the recording head 1 is mounted while the ink tank 2 is about to be mounted. The tank detecting lever 160 is biased by biasing means (not shown) such as a spring in the direction indicated by an arrow at 16d. When the ink tank 2 is not present, the lever is rotated as in the state shown in Fig. 18B. Then, the hook 160b engages with the breakout portion 106a to regulate the rotation of the head lever 106. In other words, it becomes possible to remove the recording head 1 when there is no ink tank 2. Consequently, it becomes impossible that only the recording head 1 needs to be handled. Therefore, there is no possibility of a hand touching the vicinity of the ink ejection nozzles of the recording head 1 or the vicinity of the ink supply inlet 10. Any contamination that may produce adverse effects on recording can be prevented with certainty. Also, any adverse effects that may affect recording attributable to the fact that the recording head 1 is handled as a single body can be eliminated with certainty because there is no possibility of air being taken in through the ink ejection nozzles and the ink supply inlet 10 to mix in the ink passages.

In the foregoing embodiment described in Fig. 1, the presence of the recording head 10 on the carriage 102 can be detected by discriminating whether the recording head 1 is electrically connected or not. However, it has no means for detecting the remaining amount of ink in the ink tank 2 or for transmitting to an information processing apparatus the information regarding the presence of the ink tank 2 on the carrier 102. The invention is not limited to this, and it may be possible to provide the above-mentioned detecting means.

• · ft · ft *

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Fig. 19 is a block diagram showing the electric circuits of an information processing apparatus according to still another embodiment of the invention.

In Fig. 19, reference numeral 513 denotes an ink tank sensor that detects whether or not the ink tank 2 is present on the carrier 102, and 514 denotes an ink remaining sensor that detects the presence of printable ink in the ink tank 2. The description of any elements having the same reference numerals as those of Fig. 11 will be omitted.

More specifically, the ink container sensor 513 may be such that mechanical contacts are arranged on the carrier 102, or a structure is arranged to provide an optical sensor for this purpose. The ink remaining sensor 514 may be such that the ink container 2 is made of a transparent material to allow the remaining amount to be optically detected from the outside, or a sensor is provided in the ink container 2 to sense the liquid contained therein. Contacts leading to such a sensor are arranged on the surface of the ink container; thereby the contacts are arranged on the carrier 102.

With the above-mentioned sensors, it is possible to transmit information to the CPU 502 through the interface 506 to issue a warning or execute appropriate programs when a recording operation is intended without the 0 ink tank 2 or the recording head 1 being present, or the associated printing becomes impossible due to the shortening of the remaining ink during the recording operation.

For example, there is a possibility that the recording operation becomes impossible immediately after the ink tank 2 is connected to the recording head 1 because of air bubbles mixing in the recording head 1. To prevent this, it may be possible to arrange the system to

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Such a change in state that, while the recording head 1 is on the carrier 102, the missing ink tank 2 is now present, may be designed as a case where an ink tank 2 is newly connected to the recording head in the carrier-fixed state. It is also possible to allow the carrier 102 to return to its initial position for the suction operation by the recovery unit 301.

With the above mentioned structure, the following effects can be obtained.

If the ink runs out completely during printing, the operation will automatically stop and a warning will be issued. This will prevent any recording media from being wasted.

Even after replacing the ink tanks, there is no need to perform the recovery process manually. This improves operability.

Any of the above embodiments can be preferably used in the above-mentioned ink jet recording apparatus. As another embodiment, description will be given below of an embodiment in which a recording head and an ink tank are separable and replaceable, and the recording head is connected by being pressed to the carriage which supports the recording head in a predetermined direction.

0 Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which a recording head, an ink tank and a carriage are connected in an ink jet recording apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention.

In the present embodiment, a recording head 1010a is of the type used in an ink jet method in which electrothermal transducers are used to generate thermal energy in accordance with electrical

·

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see signals so that film boiling occurs in the ink.

In Fig. 23, the basic structure of the recording head 1010a is such that all elements are laminated by gluing or pressing on a head base plate 1011a with the positioning projections 1011a-1 and 1011a-2 arranged on the head base plate 1011a as a positioning reference.

Here, in the vertical direction on the inner surface in Fig. 23, positioning is performed by the reference surface 1104a-1 of a front plate 1101a and a projection 1101a-1, while in the horizontal direction on the inner surface of Fig. 23, positioning is performed by a head positioning unit 1104a and a projection 1101a-2. Further, in the direction perpendicular to the cross section of Fig. 23, positioning is performed by the projecting portion (not shown) of the projection 1101a-2 which partially projects to cover the head positioning unit 1104a and the head positioning unit 1104a.

On a heater plate 1013a-2, electrothermal transducers (jet heaters) in multiple arrays and electric wires made of aluminum and others for electric power supply are formed by film deposition on a Si substrate. The heater plate is connected to a flexible head board (hereinafter referred to as head PCB) 1013a having rows of pads 1013a-1 arranged at their leading edges for receiving electric signals from the device body. The connection is made by wire connection to each of the corresponding rows arranged opposite to each other. Then, the ink ejection unit is formed with a common liquid chamber from which the ink is supplied from a replaceable ink tank 1001a through partition walls which separate each of the plurality of ink channels in correspondence with the jet heaters and liquid channels to supply it to the ink channels. A grooved cover plate 1012a formed integrally from polysulfone or the like with openings forming a plurality of discharge openings is supported by a

(not shown) spring is pressed onto the heater plate 1013a-2, and at the same time, it is fixed and sealed by the pressing with adhesives, thereby producing the ink discharge unit. The liquid passages 1015a, which are connected and sealed with the grooved cover 1012a, can be connected to the replaceable ink tank 1001a in the present embodiment. Finally, the liquid passages penetrate the opposite side of the head base plate 1011a through the hole provided for the head PCB 1013a, and penetrate the head base plate 1011a while being fixed to the head base plate 1011a by adhesives.

At the end of the connection side between the liquid channel 1015a and the ink tank 1001a, a filter 1008a is provided to prevent dirt particles and unwanted air bubbles from flowing into the discharge channels. A head cover 1018a is also provided to protect the discharge channels of the recording head 1010a and the pads 1013a-1 of the electrical connection, as well as to make it easier to hold the recording head 1010a at its end for handling.

The replaceable ink tank 1001a has, in its tank case 1001a-1 having ribs 1001a-2 on its inner surface, ink absorbers 1002a which retain ink and take up almost no space, the ink supply outlet (hole) 1004a to which the leading end of the liquid passage 1015a is connected, the filter 1008a inserted at its leading end to establish ink communication, and the air guide 1003a (hole) for preventing excessive generation of negative pressure by supplying air into the replaceable ink tank 1001a in an amount corresponding to the ink flowing out of the replaceable ink tank 1001a. The ribs 1001a-2 are provided on the inner wall of the container casing 1001a-1 to prevent the direct flow of air into the ink supply outlet 1004a through the inner wall of the container casing 1001a-1, so that ink can be dispersed in the entire area of the ink absorbers 1002a by the force exerted due to the capillary phenomenon.

is utilized to the maximum. At the same time, the air guide 1003a is arranged as far away from the ink supply outlet 1004a as possible. The ribs lOOla-2 serve to reinforce the container case lOOla-1 and at the same time contribute to improving the operability when the containers are replaced. The initial amount of ink retained in the ink absorbers 1002a is less than the total absorbable amount of the ink absorbers 1002a in order to exert a negative water column pressure on the sickle of the discharge openings of the recording head 1010a when it is connected for functional reasons to enable stabilized ejection as well as for operational reasons to prevent any ink leakage even if a slight impact is exerted during the replacement of the ink containers. It may be possible to control the leakage of ink from the air line 1003a by arranging the provision of a liquid-repellent treatment of the ink absorbent 1002a in the air line 1003a or by using a separate liquid-repellent absorbent. The ink supply to the replaceable ink tank 1001a reaches a limit when the ink retained in the ink absorbent 1002a becomes extremely little so that the suction of ink by the ink absorbent 1002a becomes larger than the ink supply ability to the recording head 1010a by the force exerted by the capillary phenomenon of the nozzles due to the ink ejection, or when the air flowed in from the air pipe 1003a becomes large around the filter 1008a and the air is supplied to the ink absorbent 1002a in a large amount through the air filter 1008a.

The mechanical and electrical connection of the recording head 1010a and the replaceable ink tank 1001a to the carrier HC is carried out in the following manner.

On the carriage HC are provided: a front plate 1101a arranged on the side of the plate (the front of the head); a flexible layer 1102a-1 provided with the head drive electrode 1102a corresponding to the pad 1013a-1 on the PCB head of the recording head 1010a;

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an electrical contact support plate 1100a having an elastic member (rubber pad) 1102a-2 that presses the back of the flexible layer; a head positioning unit 1104a for mechanically fixing the recording head 1010a; and a pressing hook 1103a for supporting the recording head 1010a with a bias in one direction. Here, two front plates 1101a are arranged for each of the aforementioned positioning projections 1011a and 1011a, which form the positioning reference surface 1104a-1 for the head base plate 1011a of the recording head 1010a. The pressing hook 1103a of the carriage HC is constructed to exert a biasing force in the direction indicated by a broken arrow in Fig. 23, that is, inclined by about 10° against the moving direction of the carriage HC. Due to such a biasing force, the recording head 1010a is pressed in the direction against both the front plate 1101a and the electrical connection support plate 1100a. At the same time, it is pressed in the moving direction of the carriage HC in the head positioning unit 1104a with the electrical connection support plate 1100a as its fulcrum. Although this pressing-connecting operation of the pressing hook 1103a can be carried out in any manner, it is preferable to do so by a lever or the like from the side of the surface of the carriage HC. However, when this pressing hook 1103a is connected, the recording head 1010a and the replaceable ink tank 1001a are electrically connected after being slightly rotated on the carriage HC to allow the positioning projections 1011a-1 and 1011a-2 to contact the positioning reference surface 1104a-1 of the front plate 1101a. Thereby, the positioning of the pad 1013a-1 on the PCB head 1013a and the head drive electrode 1102 is also reliably carried out.

Before the recording head 1010a and the replaceable ink tank 1001a are connected, the carriage HC and the recording head 1010a and the recording head 1010a and the replaceable ink tank 1001a are separated as shown in Fig. 24. Only the respective connecting portions are in contact. The recording head 1010a and the replaceable ink tank 1001a are connected.

t tank 1001a start the connection, wherein the connection hook 1017a provided on the head base 1010a engages with the connection guide 1005a provided on the replaceable ink tank 1001a, as shown in Fig. 24. The arrangement of this connection portion between the ink supply outlet 1004a and the head positioning unit 1104a makes it possible to securely connect the ink supply channels when the replaceable ink tank is connected to the recording head 1010a.

In other words, as is clear from Fig. 24, when the replaceable ink tank 1001a is rotated clockwise in Fig. 24, the ink supply outlet 1004a becomes the operation point with the connecting portion between the connecting hook 1017a and the connecting guide 1005a as its fulcrum when contact is applied to the connection of the recording head 1010a and the replaceable ink tank 1001a. Therefore, the ends of the liquid passages are connected with the ink absorbent 1002a and the filter 1008a serving as connecting surfaces. Further, at the same time, an elastic ring seal 1009a clamped between the head base plate 1011a and the outer wall of the replaceable ink tank is pressed and deformed so as to be in tight contact with both. This completely blocks the passage between the interior of the replaceable ink tank 1001a in the ink supply outlet 1004a and the outside. If this sealing is insufficient, the air passage into the interior of the replaceable ink tank 1001a following the ink supply to the recording head 1010a directly occurs without the ink absorbent 1002a intervening. Consequently, it becomes difficult to effectively use the ink retained in the ink absorbent 1002a. The pressing hook 1103a is implemented to provide its pressure in the direction inclined at 10° to position the recording head 1010a in the direction against the plane of Fig. 24 with respect to the carriage HC, as described above. Therefore, even in consideration of the connection with the recording head 1010a, a force is applied in the direction perpendicular to the connection direction.

Now, assuming that the force in the pressing direction is F and the contact force between the pad 1013a-1 on the PCB head 1013a of the recording head 1010a and the head driving electrode 1102a on the flexible layer 1102a-1 through the rubber pad 1102a-2 on the electrical connection support plate 1100a is F ₁ , the following relationship is available:

F ₁ = F cos 10°

On the other hand, assuming that the contact pressure between the positioning projection lOlla-1 of the head base plate 1011a of the recording head 1010a and the positioning reference surface 1104a-l of the front plate 1101a of the carriage is F2, the following relationship is available:

F ₂ = F sin 10°

This force F ₁ which causes the electrical connection is a component in the direction of the plane of the head driving electrode when the pressing hook 1103a is inclined at 10° to the plane which is on the plane of the head pressing electrode with respect to the pressing guide lOlla-3 which is a part of the head base plate 1011a of the recording head 1010a. However, it acts directly on the recording head 1010a without intervening any other member such as the replaceable ink tank 1001a. Therefore, it is possible to obtain an optimum effective force F ₁ with certainty; thus, it is possible to provide a recording apparatus which has extremely high reliability in its electrical connection from the viewpoints of environment and distribution.

On the other hand, the application of the contact force F ₂ results in maintaining the position in which the carriage HC faces the surface of a recording medium. The recording quality depends greatly on the reference position between the carriage HC and the recording head 1010a. If such a

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Before the position is not appropriate, the recording will be slanted or the linear lines will be in a sawtooth configuration. In the worst case, the electrical connection will shift to cause poor contacts, which will produce missing dots.

In the present embodiment, the positioning contact pressure F2 acts directly on the pressure guide lOlla-3, which is a part of the head base 1011a of the recording head 1010a, without any other members intervening therebetween. Its effective force is not weakened, and thereby an optimum contact force F2 can be obtained. In this way, a remarkable improvement in the accuracy of the distance between the recording medium and the recording head, which is one of the main factors affecting the recording quality of an ink jet recording apparatus, is achieved.

Moreover, since the force F]_ causes the printing guide with the electrical connection as its fulcrum, a movement of the recording head 1010a is generated with the electrical connection as its fulcrum. Therefore, a contact force by the above-mentioned moment is given to the positioning projection 1011a-2 which is a part of the head base plate 1011a of the recording head 1010a and to the head positioning unit 1104a on the front plate 1101a of the carriage HC without any other members intervening. Consequently, the positioning accuracy of the recording head 1010a in the printing direction is remarkably improved.

As described above, by directly passing through the recording head 1010a, the electric power is surely supplied from the recording apparatus to the recording head 1010a, while at the same time it is possible to remarkably improve the positioning accuracy of the carriage HC and the recording head 1010a. Thereby, it is possible to obtain an ink jet recording apparatus having high reliability and desirable recording quality.

The following is a description of another embodiment with reference to Figures 26 to 29.

The basic structure of the recording head 1010b and the replaceable ink tank 1001b is the same as that of the embodiment shown in Fig. 23. This embodiment differs in the direction of the pressing force to connect the recording head 1010b to the carriage HC and the direction in which the replaceable ink tank 1001b is installed.

In other words, as shown in Fig. 26, no front plate is provided on the side of the pressing plate (front side of the head). A side plate 1900 of the carriage HC is provided instead in the direction perpendicular to the pressing plate. The electric connection is arranged thereon as in the embodiment described in Fig. 23. At the two locations substantially in the middle of the two ends of the head base plate 1011b of the recording head 1010b, pressing guides 1901 are provided. Against the pressing guides 1901, the side plate 1900 of the carriage HC is pressed by the pressing hook 1908 shown in Fig. 29. This makes it possible to supply power from the recording apparatus to the recording head 1010b. In this case too, the pressing force is applied directly to the recording head 1010b vertically, without any other elements intervening. Thus, an optimum pressing force can be obtained with certainty. Therefore, it is possible to obtain a recording device 0 having extremely high reliability of its electrical connection from the viewpoints of environment and distribution.

Also, the projection 1902, which is a part of the base plate 1011b of the recording head 1010b, and the carriage positioning unit 1903 are in contact, so that it is possible for the pressing force to be applied to the carriage HC directly from the recording head 110b. Consequently,

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the positioning accuracy of the recording head 1010b in the recording direction is remarkable.

In this regard, it may be possible to connect the replaceable ink tank 1001b to the recording head 1010b after the recording head 1010b is connected to the carriage HC, or to connect the recording head 1010b to the replaceable ink tank 1001b before the recording head 1010b is installed on the carriage HC.

Fig. 27 shows the state in which the recording head 1010b and the replaceable ink tank 1001b are separated. Also, Fig. 28 shows the state in which the recording head 1010b and the replaceable ink tank 1001b are connected.

Fig. 29 is a partial cross-sectional view viewed from the direction indicated by a blank arrow A shown in Fig. 26. A reference numeral 1906 denotes the portion where the recording head 1010b and the replaceable ink tank 1001b are connected. A locating pin 1907 is provided on the side plate 1900 of the carriage, and the pressing hook 1908 is rotated around this locating pin 1907 as a fulcrum. A notch is provided on the leading edge 1908a of the pressing hook 1908 for holding the pressing guide 1901 integral with the head base of the recording head 1904. The locating pin 1907 and the pressing hook locating pin 1909 are also biased by a biasing ring spring 1911. In this way, the recording head 1010b is reliably electrically connected to the carriage HC through its side plate 1900. These recording head mounting pressing hooks 1908 are also provided below the recording head 1010b. As a result, the recording head 1010b is firmly pressed against the carriage side plate 190 from above as well as from below.

In this respect, a reference numeral 1910 denotes ink ejection nozzles, 1908b denotes a lever to be used when the recording head 1010b is removed from the carriage HC. By clamping two places of this

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lever, the leading edge 1908a of the pressing hook 1908 is released from the pressing guide 1901 of the recording head 1010b; thereby making it possible for the recording head 1010b to be dismounted from the carriage. 5

Next, as another embodiment, description will be given of an embodiment in which an ink tank and a recording head can be separated while the aforementioned ink tank and recording head are each mounted by separate means.

An ink tank 2001a is inserted into a carriage HC in the direction perpendicular to the plane of Fig. 30 in a state of being connected to a recording head 2010a. At this point, the removable ink tank 2001a is installed at a predetermined location in the carriage HC by being guided by a replaceable ink tank front guide 2907a and a replaceable ink tank rear guide 2908a on the carriage HC. Then, the replaceable ink tank 2901a is regulated by the engaging function of a pair of tank pressing front latches 2909a and 2911a and that of tank pressing rear latches 2910a and 2912a. Fig. 31 is a partial sectional view showing this from the ink loading surface side. The liquid passage 2913a extending from the recording head 2010a penetrates the bottom of the replaceable ink tank 2001a to the ink absorbent 202a in the replaceable ink tank 2001a.

In order to prevent dirt particles and other contaminants from mixing in the recording head 2010a, a filter 2914a is provided here. Also, a ring seal 2915a is provided around the liquid passage 2913a to prevent ink leakage from the portion where the recording head 2010a and the replaceable ink tank 2001a are connected.

A member connecting the ink tank and the recording head, that is, an ink absorbent 2002a with which a liquid passage 2913a is in contact under pressure,

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is made of absorbent material. Also, the ring seal 2915a is made of elastic material having a low hardness. Therefore, the ink tank 2001a does not exert a constraining force on the recording head 2010a. In this respect, a reference numeral 2916a denotes nozzles. Fig. 32 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A in Fig. 30 to show the replaceable ink tank itself. When mounted on the recording head 2010a, a feed unit seal 2004a-l and a guide unit seal 2003a-l are removed in the direction indicated by arrows, respectively.

Now follows the description of yet another embodiment with reference to Figures 33 to 35.

In the present embodiment, the basic structure of a recording head 2010b and a replaceable ink tank 2001b is the same as in the previous embodiment described in Fig. 30. The difference lies in the direction in which pressure is applied when the recording head 2010b is connected to the carriage HC and also in the direction in which the replaceable ink tank 2001b is installed.

In other words, as shown in Fig. 33, no front plate is arranged on the side of the pressure plate (front side of the head). A side plate 2 900b of the carriage HC is provided instead in the direction perpendicular to the pressure plate. On this, the same electrical connection unit 0 as in the previous embodiment described in Fig. 3 0 is arranged. At two locations substantially at the center of both ends of the head base plate 2011b of the recording head 2010b, pressure guides 2901b are arranged. These pressure guides 2901b are pressed against the side plate 2900b of the carriage HC by the pressure hooks 2908b shown in Fig. 35. This makes it possible to supply power from the recording device to the recording head 2010b. Here, the pressure is applied directly to the recording head 2010b vertically without any other elements.

- 59 -

Consequently, an optimal pressure can be reliably obtained. This makes it possible to obtain a recording device that has an extremely high reliability in its electrical connection from the point of view of the environment and distribution.

Also, the projection 2902b, which is a part of the head base 2011b of the recording head 2010b, and the carriage positioning unit 2903b abut against each other to allow a direct action of the pressure from the recording head 2010b on the carriage HC. The positional accuracy of the recording head 2010b in the recording direction can be remarkably improved.

In this respect, the replaceable ink tank 2001b is connected to the recording head 2010b after the recording head 2010b is mounted on the carriage HC.

Fig. 34 shows the state where the recording head and the replaceable ink tank are separated.

Fig. 35 is a partially cross-sectional view showing the recording head and the container, viewed in the direction indicated by a blank arrow B in Fig. 33. Locating pins 2907b are arranged on the side plate 2900b of the carriage HC, and pressing hooks 2908b are respectively rotated around the locating pins 2907b as a fulcrum. Notches are provided on the leading edges 2908b-l of the pressing hooks 2908b to hold the pressing guides 2901b which are integrally formed with the head base plate 2011b of the recording head 2010b. Also, the alignment pins 2907b arranged on the side plate 2900b and the pressing hook alignment pins 2909b are each preloaded by preload ring springs 2011b. This securely electrically connects the recording head 2010b to the carriage HC on the side plate 2900b. These recording head mounting pressing hooks 2908b are also provided below the recording head 2010b to firmly press the recording head 2010b against the side plate 2900b of the carriage from above and below. to press.

· I

ti * ··

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In this regard, a reference numeral 2910b denotes discharge ports (which are called nozzles in some cases) that eject ink. 2980b-2 denotes a detent used when the recording head 2010b is to be removed from the carriage HC. By pressing two parts of the detent together, the leading edges 2908b-l of the pressing hooks 2908b are released from the pressing guides 2901b of the recording head 2010b. This releases the recording head 2010b from the carriage HC.

Figs. 33 and 35 are views showing the replaceable ink tank 2001b installed in the horizontal direction as in Fig. 34 when the overall state is as described above. The replaceable ink tank 2001b is installed in the horizontal direction against the pressure exerted by a pair of notches 2912b and 2913b located on the tank-side end. Accordingly, when it abuts against a pair of carriage stoppers 2914b and 2915b, the notches 2912b and 2913b are restored on the tank-side end to complete the installation of the replaceable ink tank 2001b, thereby fitting it therein. Also, the carriage front latch 2 916b and the carriage rear latch 2 917b are designed to prevent the replaceable ink tank 2001b from being released upward.

Here, at the same time as the replaceable ink tank 2001b is mounted on the carriage, an elastic ring seal 2009b for connecting them, which is provided in the portion 2906b where the recording head 2010b and the replaceable ink tank 2001b are connected, is deformed. As a result, no ink leakage occurs. Also, since the connecting portion is flexibly constructed using elastic material, no constraining force is applied to the recording head 2010b 5 when the replaceable ink tank 2001b is mounted on the carriage. There is no possibility that the positional accuracy of the recording head 2010b with respect to the carriage will decrease.

: &iacgr;

5 \

- 61 -

Fig. 3 6 is a schematic perspective view showing the recording head and the ink tank of an ink jet recording apparatus
according to another embodiment. In Fig. 36, reference numeral 3001
a recording head that ejects ink in accordance with electrical signals; 3002 denotes an ink container (ink cartridge) containing ink supplied to the recording head
3001; 3010 denotes an ink supply inlet (liquid channel connection unit) for supplying ink from the ink tank 3002 to the recording head 3001; 3 012 denotes connection notches which connect the recording head
3001 and the ink tank 3002 when both are assembled; 3013a and 3013b denote connecting notch guide grooves that engage with the connecting notches 3012; 3016 denotes a plurality of tank inner walls for dividing the interior of the ink tank 3 0 02 into small chambers
and 3017 denotes line holes connected to
the container inner walls 3016 are open. The head cartridge 3101 is constructed from these elements.

Fig. 3 7 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which the head cartridge shown in Fig. 36 is mounted on the carrier unit. In Fig. 3 7, a reference numeral 3102 denotes a carrier (mounting unit) which

provided on a recording device housing and the

Recording head 3001 and the ink tank 3002; 3106
indicates a head lever to move the recording head 3 0 01
hold or release; 3107 denotes an ink tank lever to mount or dismount the ink tank 3002.

and 3108 denotes a head fixing spring for fixing the recording head
3(TÖ~1 on the carrier 3102. From these elements the head unit and the carrier unit of the recording device
built up.

5 The above-mentioned recording head 3 001 comprises a plurality of electrothermal transducers which generate thermal energy used to eject ink, and a
Substrate on which a drive circuit is formed
to drive these converters; it has discharge openings

·* s

- 62 -

and liquid channels arranged on the substrate corresponding to each of the above-mentioned plurality of electrothermal transducers; and further a laminated cover plate forming a common liquid chamber which is conductively connected to each of the liquid channels. Then, the recording head 3001 thus constructed is mounted on the apparatus so that the discharge surface on which the discharge openings are arranged is arranged facing a recording medium. In the head cartridge 3101 shown in Fig. 36, the structure is arranged so that ink is ejected in the direction indicated by an arrow a.

The ink tank 3002 is arranged to refill the ink consumed by recording while holding the ink and feeding it to the recording head 3001 in an appropriate manner. When this ink tank 3002 is provided as a single body, the ink supply outlet 3011 is sealed with sealing means (not shown) so that any leakage of ink is not possible. This sealing means is automatically or manually released when the ink tank is assembled with the recording head 3001 to make the ink supply possible. It may also be possible to arrange a mechanism that introduces air from the outside when the ink volume decreases due to ink consumption. Furthermore, the structure may be made such that a mechanism is arranged inside to make the pressure of the ink to be fed to the recording head 3001 slightly negative; This makes it possible to improve print quality and prevent any ink leakage.

Also, the recording head 3 001 and the ink tank 3 0 02 are used in the apparatus as a head cartridge 3101 in a recording operation, both of them being assembled together. A method of assembling the two will now be described.

Essentially, the recording head 3001 and the ink tank 3002 are assembled by inserting the ink supply unit

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3010 and the ink supply outlet 3011. Therefore, this portion is carefully arranged to prevent ink leakage from or air entry into the ink channels. As shown in Fig. 38, in the present invention, a method is adopted to utilize the elasticity of a molding member for this purpose. In other words, the ink supply inlet hole 3010a and the ink supply outlet hole 3011a are formed cylindrically. The inner diameter of the ink supply outlet 3011a is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the ink supply inlet hole 3010a. Then, when the ink supply inlet hole 3010a is pressed into the ink supply outlet hole 3011a, these two holes are tightly fitted together while being slightly deformed in the radial direction. The connection section also does not necessarily consist of a shaped element, but it is sufficient if the material only has a sealing ability. The other connection methods are described later.

In assembling the recording head 3001 and the ink tank 3002, while it is good enough to connect the ink supply inlet 3010 and the ink supply outlet 3011 as described above, the connection is enhanced in effect in the present embodiment by providing the connection latches 3012 and the connection latch guide grooves 3013a to prevent both from being easily disengaged due to an unexpected force that may be exerted when the head cartridge 3101 is handled, or to simplify the assembly. In other words, the connecting notches 3012, which are integrally formed with the ink supply inlet 3010 by molding and are elastically deformable, are provided with projections at the leading edges and are fitted into the connecting notch guide grooves 3013a while being elastically deformed by the portions corresponding to the height of the projections. The joining is completed when the projections of the connecting notches 3012 reach the deepest portions located in the backs of the connecting notch guide grooves 3013a.

- 64 -

Furthermore, the connecting notches 3012 serve as guides to allow the ink supply inlet 3010 and the ink supply outlet 3011 to be easily connected when the recording head 3001 and the ink tank 3002 are connected. In other words, the connecting notches 3012 are longer than the ink supply inlet 3010 so that the connecting notches 3012 are already in contact with the ink tank 3002 before the ink supply inlet 3010 reaches the ink supply outlet 3011. Here, the leading edges of the connecting notches 3012 are diagonally beveled. This diagonally beveled portion serves as its guide in the direction indicated by an arrow b in Fig. 36 to facilitate engagement with the notch guide grooves 3013d. Also, the projections provided on the leading edges of the connecting catches 3 012 are diagonally beveled to promote easier engagement by serving to guide them in the direction indicated by an arrow c in Fig. 3 6.

In this respect, while the connecting latches 3012 are provided on the side of the recording head 3001, their position is not limited thereto. It may be possible to arrange them on the side of the ink tank 3002 or on both sides of the recording head 3001 and the ink tank 3002.

Here, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the interior of the ink container 3002 is divided into several small chambers by the inner walls 3016. The structure is arranged so that the small chambers are connected to each other by guide holes 3017 provided near the lower edge of the inner walls 3016 of the ink container 3002. In this case, some of the guide holes 3017 must be filled with ink. Accordingly, it is necessary for the ink container 3002 to have the edge on which the guide holes 3017 are arranged at its bottom with respect to gravity {in the direction in which it is arranged in Fig. 36).

Therefore, if it is necessary to change the ink ejection direction from the downward direction as shown in Fig. 3 6

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is to rotate in a direction shown by an arrow e in Fig. 3 6, or to use the recording head for an apparatus in which the feeding direction of its recording medium (not shown) is vertical rather than horizontal, for example, or when a recording apparatus itself is arranged vertically or horizontally for use, the ink tank 3 0 02 rotated together with the ink cartridge 3101 cannot satisfy the aforementioned conditions, making its ink supply impossible. In the present embodiment, in addition to a first direction, a second connection direction is arranged which is rotated by about 90°, with the connection latches 3 012 and the connection latch guide grooves 3013a engaged. For this second connection direction, the connection latches 3 012 are used in the same way, but the connection latch guide groove 3 013 engages with the other connection latch guide groove 3 013b. The connection method in this case is the same as that used for connection in the first direction.

Since the positional relationship between the connecting notches 3012 and the connecting notch guide grooves 3013 is also rotationally symmetrical with respect to the ink supply inlet 3010, connection is possible in a total of four directions, that is, in two further directions at 90°, each in addition to the second connection direction mentioned above.

Fig. 3 9 illustrates another embodiment to show the portion where the ink channels of the recording head 3 001 and the ink tank 3002 are connected. Fig.

39A shows a case where the ink supply outlet 3011b is made of an elastic material such as rubber. Here, it is possible to make the inner diameter of the ink supply outlet 3011b smaller than the outer diameter of the ink supply inlet 3010b. This improves the connection between the ink supply inlet 3010b and the ink supply outlet 3011b when the recording head 3001 and the ink tank 3002 are connected. Consequently, the sealing ability of the ink channels is improved. Also, a force

- 66 -

required to deform the ink supply outlet 3 011b may be small. Also, the force required to cause the attachment or removal of the recording head 3 001 and the ink tank 3002 may be small. .

Also, Fig. 39B shows a case where the ink supply inlet 3010c is formed to be annular with a pointed end, while the ink supply outlet 3011c is made of an elastic material such as rubber and has no holes. After separation from the recording head 3001, the ink supply unit 3011c of the ink container 3002 is in a blocked state. Therefore, no ink leaks out of the ink supply unit 3011c. The ink container 3002 can be excellently handled as a single body.

Even when the ink tank 3002 is connected to the recording head 3001, the pointed end of the ink supply inlet 3010c makes a hole in the ink supply outlet 3011c to form an ink channel. The liquid channels can be firmly connected. Also, a force required to attach or remove the ink tank 3002 can be small.

In the other embodiment described in Fig. 36, the mounting direction of the ink tank 3002 is such that it differs only by the difference in angle in the axial direction, but regardless of this fact, it may be possible to provide the ink channels in a different position. Fig. 40 is a schematic view showing still another embodiment constructed like this to show the direction in which the recording head 3001 and the ink tank 3002 are connected. In Fig. 40, a reference numeral 3018 denotes a first ink supply inlet provided on the recording head 3001, and 3019 denotes a second ink supply inlet arranged in a direction different from the first supply inlet 3018. A head cartridge 3101 has each of these elements. Here, the ink ejection direction of the recording head 3001 is that indicated by an arrow Bk in Fig. 40. As the ink supply device

·

- 67 -

For supplying ink to the recording head 3001, the first ink supply inlet 3018 and the second ink supply inlet 3019 open at angles approximately 90° to each other. These inlets are sealed when no ink supply outlets 3011 of the ink tank 3002 are installed. By a mechanism (not shown), they are only released when the ink supply outlet 3011 is mounted to form an ink channel. Therefore, when the ink tank 3 is attached to either one or the other, the other is closed and no air mixes into the ink channel. Even when the ink tanks are attached to both outlets, the ink can flow smoothly.

In this regard, unlike the embodiment described in Fig. 36, it is possible to use an ink container that can supply ink from the ink container 3002 without being influenced by gravity. Therefore, in the present embodiment, it is also possible to attach the ink container 3002 to the second ink supply inlet 3019 in the direction indicated by an arrow a. The ink container can also be attached to the first ink inlet 3018 in the direction indicated by an arrow b in Fig. 40.

Even if the scanning direction of the carrier 3102 is assumed to be in the direction indicated by an arrow a in Fig. 40, when the head cartridge 3101 is mounted on the carrier 3102, the ink tank attached to the second ink supply inlet 3019 does not protrude beyond the recording apparatus. This makes it possible to reduce the overall height. When the ink tank 3002 is attached to the first ink inlet 3018, it is possible to reduce the width of the carriage 3012. This makes it possible to reduce the overall width of the recording apparatus. Furthermore, in a case where another ink supply inlet is provided to allow the ink tank 3002 to be attached in the direction indicated by an arrow c in Fig. 40, the overall width of the recording head can also be reduced.

As described above, it is with the structure that it

allows the connection direction of the recording head 3 001 and the ink tank 3 002 to be provided in two or more directions, it is possible to obtain an effect that with only one recording head 3001 the operation of the head cartridge

tridge 3101 is adaptable to fit many types of recording devices; this enables its versatility to be enhanced to create desirable effectiveness.
10

Fig. 41 is a perspective view showing the structure of another embodiment according to the invention. More specifically, the present embodiment is to form a color recording head by using the recording head 3001 of the embodiment described in connection with Fig. 40.

In Fig. 41, the recording head 3001 and the ink tank 3002 comprise the recording heads IBK, IY, IM and IC which respectively eject color ink materials of black (BK), yellow (Y), magenta (M) and cyan (C), and have ink tanks 2BK, 2Y, 2M and 2C. The directions indicated by the arrows in Fig. 41 represent those in which the ink materials are ejected.

As for the composition of the above-mentioned recording head 3001, the same type of head as used in the embodiment described in Fig. 40 can be used. As for the structure of the liquid passage between the head and the ink tank 3002, the first ink supply inlet 3018 is also usable. Here, in the case of a head for color recording, it is necessary to maintain the accuracy with which the recording heads themselves are accurately positioned. Therefore, a positioning projection 3020 is provided on the side of the recording head 1 opposite to a second ink supply inlet. This is connected to the second ink supply inlet of the adjacent recording head. In this way, positioning can be carried out.

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The ink supply inlets may also be arranged in the direction indicated by an arrow c in Fig. 41, and the ink tank 3002 may of course be connected in such a direction.

As described above, the assembling directions of the recording head 3001 and the ink tank 3002 can be arranged in two directions or more, and then a plurality of these recording heads 3001 and ink tank 3002 are made usable. Thereby, the following effects can be achieved:

It is possible to obtain a color recording cartridge only by adding head cartridges for multiple colors to the head cartridge 3101 which is usually used for a single color.

Also, by making the size of an ink tank 3002 for use in a single color and that of the recording head 3001 added for multi-color recording substantially the same, it is possible to perform single-color recording and multi-color recording with a carrier which is divisible for this purpose.

This makes it possible to create a compact color recording device at a low cost. Furthermore, by using the ink supply inlet for positioning, it is possible to accurately perform positioning between the heads for high-quality color recording.

Fig. 42 shows another embodiment. A mounting and holding lever 4002f for an ink cartridge 4002 is provided on a recording head 4002a. This lever 4002f can be held downward with its mounting shaft 4002g as the fulcrum. When an ink jet cartridge 4002 is mounted in the carriage, the lever is raised in the direction opposite to the direction of ink ejection as indicated by a solid line in Fig. 42 to move it in the direction indicated by an arrow A.

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with the aforementioned mounting shaft 4002g fitted in the carriage guide grooves 4001c. Then, as shown in Fig. 43, when the mounting shaft 4002g reaches the bottom of the guide grooves 4001c and is no longer slidable, the lever 4002f is rotated 90° in the direction B to hold the carriage 4001. In practice, it is preferable to provide a snap function or the like to improve the feeling of operation. In this connection, the extended cylindrical portions 4002h provided on the lever 4002f are regulated by the walls 4001e of the positioning grooves 4001d and displaced by a distance ε to the left in Fig. 43. By this displacement, the contact between the recording head 4002a and the carrier 4001 is caused to electrically connect them.

Now, still another embodiment will be described. As shown in Fig. 44, the present embodiment is such that the ink jet cartridge mounting and holding lever 4002f provided on the recording head 4002a in the previous embodiment described in connection with Fig. 42 is arranged on the ink tank 4002c. All other construction is the same as in the embodiment shown in Fig. 42.

Next, still another embodiment will be described. As shown in Fig. 45, the present embodiment is applicable to the structure in which the recording head 4002a and the ink tank 4002b are separable. In the present embodiment, the extended cylindrical portions 4002k of the ink tank lever 4002j are made longer. Accordingly, the displacement amount ε increases by this amount. As shown in Fig. 46, this is required to insert the connecting rod 4002d of the recording head 4002a into the connecting hole 4002e of the ink tank 4002b.

Now, still another embodiment will be described. As shown in Fig. 47, the present embodiment is a modification of the embodiment described in

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ation with Fig. 45. Its structure is arranged so that the ink tank 4002b is held by the recording head 4002a. The guide grooves for the ink tank 4002b are provided on the recording head 4002a (4021), while the guide groove for the recording head 4002a is provided on the carriage (400If). In the present embodiment, the ink tank 4002b can be independently replaced by the ink tank lever 4002j, but the recording head 4002a cannot be independently replaced. It must be replaced in the ink jet cartridge mode while the ink tank 4002b is held.

With a structure such as this, the replacement can be performed with only one operation, whereas in the prior art, the operation must be performed twice when the recording head 4002a is replaced, that is, the ink tank 4002b must be removed first before the recording head 4002a is replaced.

Now, Figs. 48 and 49 illustrate another embodiment. Fig. 48 is a schematic perspective view showing a state before an ink tank is attached to a recording head. Fig. 49 is a schematic perspective view showing a state after the ink tank is attached to the recording head.

In Figs. 48 and 49, a reference numeral 5006 denotes an ink tank containing ink supplied to a recording head 5004 via the nozzle 5005 of the recording head 5004 through a hole 5007 provided in the ink tank 5006. The recording head 5004 is also detachably connected to a hole 5003 of the carriage 5001 by means not shown. Here, the scanning directions of the carriage 5001 are as indicated by an arrow S in Fig. 48 5. The direction in which the ink is ejected from the recording head 5004 onto a recording medium is as indicated by an arrow T in Fig. 4 8.

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An operator of a recording apparatus removes an empty ink tank 5006 when it is known that the ink in the ink tank 5006 has been used up, and installs an ink tank 5006 containing ink on the recording head 5004.

In such a case, the ink tank 5006 is displaced from the position in Fig. 48 in the direction indicated by an arrow P in Fig. 48 to allow the nozzles 5004 of the recording head 5004 to be connected to the hole 5007 of the ink tank 5006. In this connection, the ink tank 5006 engages with a stopper 5002 of the carriage 5001 before abutting against the ink tank 5004 (Fig. 49).

By providing the stopper 5002 on the carriage 5001 in this way, the ink tank 5006 is allowed to engage with the stopper 5002 of the carriage 5001 before it collides with the recording head 5004 even if an excessive force is applied to the ink tank 5006 when the ink tank 5006 is installed. Therefore, there is no possibility that the recording head 5004 will be damaged.

Figures 50 and 51 illustrate another embodiment. Figure 50 is a schematic perspective view showing a state before an ink tank is installed on a recording head. Figure 51 is a schematic perspective view showing a state after the ink tank is installed on the recording head. '"

In Figures 50 and 51, a reference numeral 5026 denotes an ink tank containing ink to be supplied through the ink supply nozzle 5005 of a recording head 5004 to the recording head 5004 through a hole 5028 provided on the ink tank 5026. The recording head 5004 is also detachably connected to the hole 5021 of a carriage 5020 by means not shown. Here, the scanning directions

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ments of the carriage 5020 as indicated by an arrow S, while the ink ejection direction from the recording head 5004 onto a recording medium is as indicated by an arrow T. A reference numeral 5027 denotes ink tank installation grooves provided on the ink tank 5026 and engaging with bosses arranged on a carriage lever 5024 installed on the upper holes 5023 of arms 5022 provided on both sides of the carriage 5020.

An operator lifts the carriage lever 5024 to install the ink tank 5026 so that the grooves 5027 of the ink tank 5026 engage with the bosses 5025 when it is installed on the recording head 5004 (Fig. 50).

Then, the carriage lever 5024 is held downward in the direction indicated by an arrow A. This causes the ink tank 5026 to slide in the direction (indicated by an arrow B) approaching the recording head 5004. The ink supply nozzle 5005 of the recording head 5004 and the hole 5028 of the ink tank 5026 are connected (Fig. 51). In this case, even if an operator applies an excessive force to the carriage lever 5024, a stopper disposed on the carriage lever 5024 is caused to abut against the carriage 5020. The ink tank 5026 can no longer approach the recording head 5004. Here, Fig. 52 shows the recording head 50 04 of the embodiment described in Fig. 50. It shows the positional relationship between the grooves 5027 of the ink tank 5026 and the hubs 5025 of the carriage lever

5024. Now, even if an operator erroneously pushes the ink tank 5026 in the direction so as to approach the recording head 5004, the ink tank 5026 does not collide with the recording head 5004 because, as shown in Fig. 52, a space y between the recording head 5004 and the ink tank 5026 is larger than a space x between the bosses 5025 and the grooves 5027, maintaining a relationship (y > x).

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With the above-described structure, even if an excessive force is applied to the ink tank 5026, there is no possibility that the recording head 5004 will be damaged.
5

In the present embodiment, the hubs 5025 are also arranged on the slide lever 5024, but it is not necessary to design them in a hub type if only some projections can be provided instead. 10

Figs. 53 to 56 illustrate still another embodiment. Fig. 53 schematically shows an ink tank itself. Fig. 54 is a side view of the ink tank, seen from the direction indicated by an arrow C in Fig. 53. Fig. 55 is a schematic perspective view showing the state where the recording head is installed on a carriage before the ink tank is mounted on the carriage. Fig. 56 is a schematic perspective view showing the state where the ink tank is attached to the recording head installed on the carriage.

In Figs. 53, 54 and 55, a reference numeral 5046 denotes an ink tank containing ink therein. Ink is supplied to the recording head 5004 via the ink supply nozzle 5005 of the recording head 5004 through the hole 5048 of the ink tank 5046. The recording head 5004 is also detachably connected to the hole 5041 of a carriage 5040 by means not shown. A reference numeral 5042 denotes a guide provided to guide the carriage 5040 for ink tank installation. Also, a reference numeral 5047 denotes a stopper rib provided on the ink tank 5046.

5 An operator inserts the ink container 5046 into the guide 5042 of the carriage 5040 from the hole 5048 in the direction indicated by an arrow D in Fig. 55, so that it is possible that the direction (E) of the ink container 5046, in which no rib 5047 is provided, is aligned with the F section of the

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carriage 5040 when the ink tank 5046 is mounted on the recording head 5004. The ink tank is inserted until the rib 5047 of the ink tank 5046 abuts against the edge 5043 of the guide 5042. Thereby, the ink supply nozzle 5005 of the recording head 5004 and the hole 5048 of the ink tank 5046 are connected to complete the installation of the ink tank 5046 (Fig. 56).

By providing the stopper rib 5047 on the ink tank 5046 as described above, there is no possibility that the recording head 5004 will be damaged even if the recording head 5004 is impacted due to an excessive force applied to the ink tank 5046.

Figs. 57 to 59 illustrate still another embodiment. Fig. 57 is a schematic perspective view showing the ink tank itself. Fig. 58 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which a recording head is mounted on a carriage before the ink tank is installed on the carriage. Fig. 59 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which the ink tank is attached to the recording head installed on the carriage.

In Figs. 57 and 58, reference numeral 5056 denotes an ink tank containing ink therein. Ink is supplied to the recording head 5004 via the ink supply nozzle 5005 of the recording head 5004 through the hole 5058 of the ink tank 5056. The recording head 5004 is also detachably connected to the hole 5051 of the carriage 5050 by means not shown. Reference numeral 5052 denotes a guide provided on the carriage for installing the ink tank. Also, 5057 denotes a stopper provided on the ink tank 5056 and engaging with the groove 5053 of the guide 5052.

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An operator inserts the ink tank 5026 into the guide 5052 of the carriage 5050 from the hole 5058 in the direction indicated by an arrow D in Fig. 58 to allow the projection 5057 of the ink tank 5056 and the groove 5053 of the carriage 5050 to coincide with each other when the ink tank 5056 is mounted on the recording head 5004. The ink tank is inserted until the projection 5057 abuts against the deepest portion of the groove 5053. Thereby, the ink supply nozzle 5005 of the recording head 5004 and the hole 5058 of the ink tank 5056 are connected to complete the installation of the ink tank 5056 (Fig. 59).

By providing the stopper projection 5057 of the ink tank 5056 and the groove 5053 on the guide 5052 of the carriage 5050 as described above, there is no possibility that the recording head 5004 is damaged even if the recording head 5004 is impacted by an excessive force applied to the ink tank 5056.

Figs. 60A and 60B show another embodiment. In an ink jet head 6106, an ink supply tube 6104 serves as an ink supply means. It has a cylindrical external appearance that can be fitted into an ink supply outlet 6103 with a desirable tightness, with a recess provided on the ink tank 6102. However, the positional relationship in connection between the ink jet head 6101 and the ink tank 6102 is not determined only by the ink supply means 6104 and the ink supply outlet 6103. The positioning is made perfectly three-dimensional by further fitting positioning pins 6105 and 6106 provided on the ink jet head 6106 into positioning holes 6107 and 6108 provided on the ink tank 6102, also allowing release blocking elements 6109 and 6110 provided on the ink jet head 6101 to engage with engagements 6111 and 6112 provided on the ink tank 6102. As shown in Figures 60A and 60B, it is clear that the positioning means

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for connecting the inkjet head and the ink tank are not independent of the ink supply device.

In the ink jet head 6101, the positions at which the positioning pins 6105 and 6106 are arranged are not particularly limited. However, it is preferable to select them as far away from the ink supply device as possible in order to hinder its actions and improve positioning accuracy. It is sufficient to select practical positions on the surface opposite to that on which the ink jet head 6101 and the ink tank 6102 are connected. The selection of the position at which the removal blocking members are arranged requires consideration of easier release of the connection in addition to the same considerations as described above. The positioning pins and the removal blocking members shown in Figs. 60A and 60B mainly represent one embodiment each, and are not intended to be limited thereto.

0 The compositions of the ink supply tube 6104 and the ink supply outlet 6103 are not necessarily the constituents of the present invention and can be arbitrarily selected. However, it is preferable to form a cylindrical projection and an opposing recess from the viewpoint of preventing ink leakage.

Fig. 60B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X-X (shown in the ink tank 6102) after the ink cartridge 6101 and the ink tank 6102 are connected. It shows the connected states of the positioning devices 6106 and 6108 arranged on both members, respectively. It also shows the removal blocking members 6190 and 6111. In this regard, reference numeral 6115 denotes an ink chamber.

Fig. 61 shows yet another embodiment.

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As far as a suitable ink supply channel can be formed on a carriage 6301, it may be possible to use the carriage 6301 for positioning the ink jet head 6302 and the ink tank 6303 by arranging a connection between the ink jet head 6302 and the carriage 6301 and a connection between the ink tank 6303 and the carriage 6301 instead of using the head cartridge in the type in which an ink jet head and an ink tank are connected as in the embodiment shown in Figures 60A and 60B.

In this case too, the ink supply tubes 6308 and 6309 which are conductive in relation to each other are not used for positioning. On the carriage 6301, there are provided elements 6304, 6305, 6306 and 6307 which are only for positioning. Meanwhile, a structure is arranged to provide opposing recesses on the ink jet head 6302 and the ink tank 6303. This makes it possible to position the ink jet head and the ink tank with accuracy even though the ink supply tubes are formed cylindrically with a desirable tightness.

The ink jet head 6302 and the ink tank 6303 are each formed of elastic materials, and the removal blocking members 6310, 6311, 6312 and 6313 are detachably connected to the recesses 6314, 6315, 6316 and 6317 of the carriage 6301 .

Figures 62 to 65 illustrate still another embodiment. Fig. 62 is a schematic perspective view showing an ink tank itself. Fig. 63 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which a recording head is installed on a carriage before the ink tank is mounted on the carriage. Fig. 64 is a schematic perspective view showing the recording head, the ink tank and the carriage before the ink tank is attached to the recording head. Fig. 65 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which the ink tank is attached to the

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Recording head is mounted on the carriage.

In Figs. 62 and 63, a reference numeral 7026 denotes an ink tank containing ink therein. The ink is supplied to the recording head 7004 via the ink supply nozzle 7005 of the recording head 7004 through the hole 7028 of the ink tank 7026. The recording head 7004 is also detachably connected to the hole 7021 of the carriage 7020 by means not shown. Here, the scanning direction of the carriage 7020 is as indicated by an arrow S in Fig. 62, while the ink ejection direction of the recording head 7004 onto a recording medium is as indicated by an arrow T in Fig. 62. A reference numeral 7027 denotes grooves provided on the ink tank 7026 to prevent any erroneous tank installation, the grooves engaging with the bosses 7025 disposed on the carriage lever 7024 rotatably mounted in the upper holes 7023 of the arms 7022 provided on both sides of the carriage 7020.

An operator installs the ink tank 7026 so that the grooves 7027 of the ink tank 7026 engage with the bosses 7025 while the carriage lever 7027 is held upward when the ink tank 7026 is attached to the recording head 7004 (Fig. 64).

In this case, if the ink tank 7026 is placed with its top side facing downward or its inside side facing outward, that is, in directions different from the normal direction, the bosses and grooves 7027 do not match when installed on the carriage 7020, so that even installation on the carriage 7020 is impossible.

Subsequently, the carriage lever 7024 is held downward in the direction indicated by an arrow A. In this way, the ink tank 7026 is allowed to move in the direction in which it approaches the recording head 7004 (indicated by an arrow B). The ink supply

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nozzle 7005 of the recording head 7004 is connected to the hole of the ink tank 7026 to complete the installation of the ink tank 7026. In this connection, a stopper 7029 provided on the carriage lever 7024 is allowed to abut against the carriage 7024 (Fig. 65).

As described above, the grooves 7027 are provided at the position spaced from the center of the ink tank 7026 as shown in Fig. 62, while the bosses 7025 engaging with the grooves 7027 are provided on the carriage 7027. This makes it possible to prevent any erroneous installation of the ink tank 7026 on the carriage 7020.

In the present embodiment, the bosses 7025 are also provided on the slide lever 7024, but they do not have to be limited to this shape as long as they are in a protruding shape.

Figs. 66 to 69 show still another embodiment. Fig. 66 is a schematic perspective view showing an ink tank itself. Fig. 67 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which a recording head is installed on a carriage before the ink tank is mounted on the carriage. Fig. 68 is a schematic perspective view showing the recording head, the ink tank and the carriage before the ink tank is attached to the recording head. Fig. 69 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which the ink tank is attached to the recording head which is installed on the carriage.

In Figures 66 and 67, reference numeral 7036 denotes an ink tank containing ink therein. The ink is supplied to the recording head 7004 via the ink supply nozzle 7005 of the recording head 7004 through the hole 7038 of the ink tank 7036. The recording head 7004 is also detachably connected to the hole 7021 of the carriage 7020 by means not shown. Reference numeral 7037 denotes RiI-

•&iacgr; · ♦ ·

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provided on the ink tank 7036/ which engage with the bosses 7025 arranged on the carriage lever 7024 mounted in the upper holes 7023 of the arms 7022 provided on both sides of the carriage 7020.

An operator installs the ink tank 7036 so that the wall 7039 of the ink tank 7036 is located on the side of the recording head 7004 and also that the grooves 7037 engage with the bosses 7025 while the carriage lever 7024 is held upward when the ink tank 7036 is mounted on the recording head 7004 (Fig. 68). In this case, even if it happens that the ink tank 7036 faces its top side downward or its inside side outward, that is, in directions different from the normal direction, the wall 7039 is blocked by the recording head 7004 when mounted on the carriage 7021 or the bosses 7025 do not match the positions of the grooves 7037. Thus, even mounting on the carriage 7020 is impossible.

Subsequently, the carriage lever 7024 is held downward in the direction indicated by an arrow A. Thereby, the ink tank 7036 shifts in the direction approaching the recording head 7004 (the direction indicated by an arrow B), and the ink supply nozzle 7005 of the recording head 7004 is connected to the hole 7038 of the ink tank 7036 to complete the installation of the ink tank 7036 (Fig. 69).

"As described above, the wall 703 7 is provided at an end portion of the ink tank 703 6. Further, the grooves 7037 are provided away from the center of the ink tank 7036, while the bosses 7025 engaging with the grooves 7037 are provided on the carriage 7020. This makes it possible to prevent any erroneous installation of the ink tank 7036 on the carriage 7027.

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In the present embodiment, the bosses 7025 are also provided on the slide lever 7024, but the bosses 7025 are not necessarily limited to this shape if they are only formed in a protruding shape. 5

Figs. 70 to 73 illustrate still another embodiment. Fig. 70 is a schematic perspective view showing an ink tank itself. Fig. 71 is a side view showing the ink tank schematically viewed from the direction indicated by an arrow C in Fig. 7. Fig. 72 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which a recording head is installed on a carrier before the ink tank is mounted on the carriage. Fig. 73 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which the ink tank is attached to the recording head installed on the carriage.

In Figs. 70, 71 and 72, reference numeral 7046 denotes an ink tank containing ink therein. The ink is supplied to the recording head 7004 via the ink supply nozzle of the recording head 7004 through the hole 7048 of the ink tank 7045. The recording head 7004 is also detachably connected to the hole 7041 of the carriage 7040 by means not shown. Reference numeral 7042 denotes an ink tank installation guide provided on the carriage 7042, and also 7047 denotes a rib for preventing erroneous installation of the ink tank 7047.

An operator inserts the ink container 7046 into the guide 7042 of the carriage 7040 in the direction indicated by an arrow D in Fig. from the hole 7048 so that the direction (E) in which there is no rib 7047 on the ink container 7046 coincides with the F portion of the carriage 7040 when the ink container 7046 is attached to the recording head 7004. The ink container is inserted until the rib 7047 of the ink container 7046 is allowed to abut against the edge 7043 of the guide 7042 of the carriage 7040. Thereby, the ink supply nozzle 7005 of the recording head 7004 is opened.

head 7004 is connected to the hole 7048 of the ink tank 7046 to complete the ink tank installation {Fig. 73).

In this case, even if the ink container 7046 is placed with its top side facing down or its inside facing out, that is, in the directions different from the regulated directions, the rib 7047 interferes with the mounting on the carriage 7040, so that the carriage 7040 cannot be inserted into the guide 7042, thereby making the mounting impossible.

As described above, the rib 7047 is arranged on the edge of the ink tank 7046 to provide the guide 7042 on the carriage 7040, thereby preventing the ink tank 7046 from being incorrectly mounted on the carriage 7040.

Figs. 74 to 76 illustrate still another embodiment. Fig. 74 is a schematic perspective view showing the ink tank itself. Fig. 75 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which a recording head is installed on a carriage before the ink tank is mounted on the carriage. Fig. 76 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which the ink tank is attached to the recording head installed on the carriage.

In Figures 74 and 75, reference numeral 7056 denotes an ink tank containing ink therein. The ink is supplied to the recording head 7004 via the ink supply nozzle 7005 of the recording head 7004 through the hole 7058 of the ink tank 7056. The recording head 7004 is also detachably connected to the hole 7051 of the carriage 7050 by means not shown. Reference numeral 7052 denotes an ink tank installation guide provided on the carriage 7050; 7057 denotes a projection for preventing the ink tank from being erroneously installed; and 7053 denotes

·

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net a groove provided on the carriage to prevent the ink tank from being installed incorrectly.

When an operator mounts the ink tank 7056 on the recording head 7004, the ink tank 7056 is inserted into the guide 7052 of the carriage from the hole 7058 in the direction indicated by an arrow D in Fig. 75 so that the projection 7057 of the ink tank 7056 and the groove 7053 of the carriage 7050 coincide. The ink tank is inserted until the projection 7057 abuts against the end of the groove 7053. Thereby, the ink supply nozzle 7005 of the recording head 7004 and the hole 7058 of the ink tank 7056 are connected to complete the installation of the ink tank 7056 {Fig. 76).

In this case, even if it happens that the ink tank 7056 is placed with its top side facing down or its inside side facing out or in any directions other than the normally regulated directions, the ink tank cannot be inserted into the guide 7052 of the carriage 7050 because it is blocked by the projection 7057; its installation becomes impossible.

As described above, it is possible to prevent the ink tank 7056 from being incorrectly installed in the carriage 7050 by providing the projection on the ink tank 7056 and the groove 7053 of the guide 7052 of the carriage 7050.

0 Fig. 77 illustrates another embodiment in the state where a head cartridge 8002 is separated from a recording head 8002a and an ink tank 8002b.

In the present embodiment, the recording head 8002a and the ink tank 8002b are connected such that an ink supply pipe 8002a4 formed in the recording head 8002a for supplying ink to the recording head 8002a from the ink tank 8002b is connected to a sealing ring 8002b4 provided on the ink tank 8002b.

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hen to prevent the leakage of ink by fitting it into the above-mentioned ink supply tube 8002a4. In addition, locking notches 8002b3 formed on the ink tank 8002b are connected to the receptacles 8002a3 provided on the recording head 8002a to receive the foregoing locking notches 8002b3. Reference numerals 8002al and 8002bl denote the registration marks provided on the ink tank 8002b to indicate a correct position of the insertion amount when connecting; 8002a2 and 8002b2 denote marks provided on the recording head 8002a and the ink tank 8002b, respectively, to indicate the direction in which they are connected. They are arranged in stripes of different colors on the recording head 8002a and the ink tank 8002b, in engraved lines or the like, to facilitate the distinction of the connection direction of the recording head 8002a and the ink tank 8002b when separated; 8002a5 denotes a contact for establishing an electrical connection between the carrier 8001 and the recording head 8002a when the head cartridge 8002 is mounted on the carrier 8001; and reference numeral 8002b5 denotes a receptacle for a lock lever (described later) for fixing the head cartridge 8002 on the carrier when the head cartridge 8002 is mounted on the carrier 8001.

Fig. 78 shows the state in which the recording head 8002a and the ink tank 8002b are being connected to each other.

0 When the ink tank 8002b is just inserted into the recording head 8002a, a pressing load increases more when the locking tabs 8002b3 abut against the locking tab seats 8002a3. In this state, however, the matching marks 8002al and 8002bl are still offset. This allows the operator to see that the connection is not yet completed.

When the ink tank 8002b continues to print, the arms of the locking catches 8002b3 bend to release the

8002a3, allowing them to connect correctly. Then the match marks 8002al and 8002bl match. Fig. 79 shows this state.

Fig. 80 shows the state in which the head cartridge 8002 is mounted on the substrate. Here, the recording head 8002a and the ink tank 8002b are not particularly securely connected to each other. There is still a space between them in such a connected state of the head cartridge 8002 as shown in Fig. 80. In the present embodiment, correct installation is possible even in a state like this.

In Fig. 80, provided on the carriage 8001 are: an electrical contact 8001a for establishing an electrical connection with the recording head 8002a; an elastic member 8001b made of rubber or the like for providing a pressure required for the electrical contact; an operating lever 8001c for mounting or dismounting the head cartridge 8002; a cartridge locking lever 8001d for fixing the head cartridge on the carrier 8001; a lever spring 8001e for biasing the operating lever 8001c; a pressing lever 8001f for supporting the head cartridge 8002 from below; and an intermediate locking lever 8001g for moving the aforementioned pressing lever 8001f. The four components, the operating lever 8001c, the cartridge locking lever 8001d, the push lever 8001f and the intermediate locking lever 8001g are mounted axially at the same point. The three components, the operating lever 8001c, the cartridge locking lever 8001d and the intermediate locking lever 8001g are locked to one another and are operated synchronously, while the movement of the operating lever 8001c is transmitted to the push lever 8001f via the intermediate locking lever 8001g.

When there is no cartridge 8002 on the carrier 8001, the above-mentioned levers are biased by the lever spring 8001e in the clockwise direction in Fig. 80. The state shown in Fig. 80 is such that the head cartridge is mounted under this condition. From this state, the operating lever

8001c is rotated in the direction indicated by an arrow c. Then, the front edge of the pressing lever 8001f descends to cause the head cartridge 8002 to descend in a similar manner. With the further rotation of the operating lever 8001c, the intermediate lock lever 8001g separates from the pressing lever 8001f and is no longer rotated, thereby assuming the state as shown in Fig. 81. When the operating lever 8001c is further rotated, the cartridge lock lever 80Old starts to press the ink tank 8002b.

Even if there is a clearance due to incomplete connection of the recording head 8002a and the ink tank 8002b, the ink tank is pressed in the mounting direction by the cartridge lock lever 8001d. As a result, the recording head 8002a and the ink tank 8002b are finally fully connected once the head cartridge 8002 is mounted on the carrier 8001.

Fig. 81 shows the state in which the head cartridge 8002 is mounted on the carrier. From this state, when the operating lever 8001c is rotated counterclockwise, the front end of the cartridge lock lever SOOIe reaches the lower side of the rotation center of the lever (Fig. 82). As a result, the cartridge lock lever SOOId is further urged counterclockwise by the force exerted due to the elastic member 8001b against the force exerted by the lever spring 8001e. As a result, the cartridge lock lever 8001d is locked.

Now, as a still further embodiment, a case will be described in which the connection indication marks are provided on a structure that accommodates an ink tank in a recording head casing. Fig. 83 is a schematic perspective view showing a recording head and an ink tank according to the present embodiment. Fig. 84 is a plan view. In Fig. 83, reference numeral 8200 denotes a recording head and 8220 denotes an ink tank. On the foregoing recording head 8200, a nozzle unit 8201 is provided for ejecting ink splashes; further, a supply pipe 8202 is provided.

provided to receive ink supply from an ink tank 8220; a window 8203 is provided to check matching marks; moving masks 8204 are provided; finger supports 8205 are provided for removing the ink tank 8220; and locking tabs 8206 are provided to fix the ink tank 8220. On the preceding ink tank 8220, there are provided matching lines 8221; finger supports 8222 for use in installation; an ink supply outlet for supplying ink to the preceding recording head 8200 and receptacles 8224 for receiving the preceding locking tabs 8206.

The connection of the ink tank 8220 is carried out by inserting the ink tank in the direction indicated by an arrow.

As shown in the left side of the figure, when the ink tank 8220 is inserted in the correct position, the registration marks 8204 of the recording head 8200 and the registration line 8221 of the ink tank 8220 are brought into alignment. This makes it easy to distinguish whether the installation is carried out correctly or not. When the installation is not correct, the registration mark 8204 and the registration line 8221 are offset as shown in the right side of the figure 84. Since the inspection window 8203 is provided diagonally with respect to the installation direction, even a slight offset in the installation direction is strongly indicated, so that the distinction becomes easier.

As still another embodiment, Fig. 85 illustrates a case where a latch for connecting a head cartridge and a carrier is provided in an operation mode in which an ink tank is housed in the recording head housing. Fig. 85 is a schematic perspective view showing a recording head and an ink tank according to the present embodiment. For each element having the same function as above, the same description is given.

train marking is provided at the appropriate location and its description is omitted.

In Fig. 85, the ink tank 8002b is installed in the direction indicated by an arrow A with respect to the recording head 8002a. They are connected by engaging the catches 8002a6 arranged at two locations on the recurring head side and the receptacles 8002a6 on the ink tank side. The recording head 8002a is installed in the direction indicated by an arrow B, which is the same as the direction indicated by the arrow A with respect to the carrier 8001. It is connected thereto by engaging a spring 8001h and a receptacle portion 8002a7. The ink tank 8002b alone can be replaced even in a state where the recording head 8002a is connected to the carrier 8001. However, since the ink tank 8002b and the recording head 8002a are mounted or dismounted in the same direction, the rigidity of the latch for connecting the ink tank 8002b should be set lower than that of the latch for connecting the recording head 8002a. In this way, when only the ink tank 8002b is replaced, it is possible to prevent the recording head 8002a from being removed together with the ink tank by mistake.

As also shown in Fig. 86, the installation direction of the recording head 8002a and that of the ink tank 8002b are made different. Consequently, it becomes possible to reliably perform the installation of the ink tank and the recording head separately.

Although in Fig. 86 the manner in which the ink tank 8002b and the recording head 8002a are connected is the same as that of the case described in connection with Fig. 85, the directions in which the recording head 8002a and the carriage 8001 are connected are different. In order to connect the recording head 8002a to the carrier 8001, the recording head 8002a must first be slightly displaced before it is mounted on the carrier 8001. If the amount of such displacement is insufficient, a pin

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8002a9 is caused to abut against an inclination 800In provided on the carrier to displace the recording head 8002a in the horizontal direction while simultaneously preventing the engagement of the notches 8001m and seats 8002a8. When the recording head 8002a is mounted on the carrier as indicated by an arrow D, it is displaced in the horizontal direction to complete the installation by engaging the notches 8001m on the carriage side and the seats 8002a8 on the recording head side.

As shown in Fig. 87, the recording head 9002a and the ink tank 9002b are connected by inserting a connecting rod 9002d into a connecting hole 9002e. The connecting and disconnecting operation on the carrier 9001a is performed by a lever or the like provided on the carrier. Here, the description and illustration of such operations by a drawing are omitted.

Usually, the ink jet cartridge 9002 with the recording head 9002a and ink tank 9002b connected is mounted on a substrate to perform printing. A reference numeral 9043 denotes an absorbent according to the present invention. It is made of a high molecular polymer or the like. It is arranged in adhesive bonding on the support by a double-sided adhesive tape or the like so that the absorbent is arranged under the connecting portion of the connecting rod 9002d and the connecting hole 9002e, that is, it is provided in the vicinity of the connecting portion of the recording head and the ink tank. Therefore, when the recording head 9002a and the ink tank 9002b are separated, the absorbent 9043 absorbs ink dripping from the outer periphery of the connecting rod 9002b and the end of the connecting hole 9002e and retains such ink drops to prevent them from flowing outward. Here, the neighborhood of the connecting portion of the present invention means the area comprising the connecting portion and its neighborhood where ink leakage or ink scattering occurs.

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when the recording head and ink tank are separated.

Now another embodiment is described. 5

As shown in Fig. 88, a groove 9001b is provided under the connecting portion of the connecting rod 9002d and the connecting hole 9002e on the support 9001. The present embodiment is effective when the absorbent 9043 shown in the embodiment described in connection with Fig. 87 cannot be arranged in the desired position. With the present embodiment, it is possible that the absorbent can be arranged at an arbitrary position by adhesive bonding. First, ink dripping from the connecting portion is received by the groove 9001b. By the capillary phenomenon, it flows along the groove 9001b. Finally, it reaches the absorbent 9043 adhered to the terminal end of the groove and is held there. 20

Another embodiment is described below.

As shown in Fig. 89, the absorbent 9043 is adhesively disposed on the recording head 9002a. Also in Fig. 90, the absorbent 9043 is fitted around the outer periphery of the connecting rod 9002d and is pressed against the side of the ink tank 9002c by a compression spring 9044. Thereby, it is removed upon separation from the connecting rod 9002d while absorbing ink existing on the outer periphery of the connecting rod 9002d. Furthermore, a groove is disposed on at least either the recording head 9002a or the ink tank 9002c, thus providing a structure that can achieve approximately the same effect as the embodiment described in connection with Fig. 88.

Another embodiment is described below.

·

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As shown in Fig. 91, the present embodiment is that the absorbent described in connection with Fig. 87 is arranged on the side of the ink tank.

Now another embodiment is described.

As shown in Fig. 92, the present embodiment is that the connecting rod 9002d is treated to be water-repellent while the connecting hole 9002e is treated to be water-attractive. In this case, the ink does not adhere to the connecting rod 9002d which is treated to be water-repellent. It always adheres to the ink hole 9002e which is treated to be water-attractive. Consequently, no leakage of ink from the inside of the ink container 9002c to the outside occurs.

Fig. 93 illustrates another embodiment and is a block diagram showing a circuit for detecting the ink tank and an ink amount using a detection terminal 9360 and a detection pin 9380. This circuit is provided in an ink jet recording apparatus body described above.

Whether the ink container is present and whether there is a sufficient amount of ink is determined in Fig. 93 by the discrimination circuit 9300 on the basis of the detection results of the current detection circuit 9200 in accordance with the presence or absence of the contact between the detection terminal 9360 and the detection pin 9380 and the amount of ink present as described above. The signals carrying the detection results are transmitted to a control circuit 9400. The control circuit 9400 is built in the ink container 9900. When it is determined that there is ink, the usual recording operation such as driving the recording head by driving the carriage (the drive circuit for this is not shown) and the recording head is performed.

: ♦:

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drive circuit 9500. On the other hand, when the discrimination circuit 9300 does not detect ink, the control circuit 9400 causes the recording operation not to be enabled.
. 5

The control circuit 9400 also causes a display device 9600 to display the results provided by the discrimination circuit 9300.

In this regard, according to the present embodiment, the detection is performed by two detection pins which detect the presence of ink, but it may be possible to detect the remaining amount of ink by detecting the material value of the ink using the two detection pins 9380. In this embodiment, the current detection circuit 9200 and the discrimination circuit 9300 are provided on the side of the recording apparatus, but it may be possible to arrange them on the side of the head cartridge.

In another embodiment, the details of which are shown in Fig. 94, the detection terminal 9360 for detecting the presence of the ink tank 990 0 is arranged on the side of the carriage HC. This makes it possible to detect both the presence of the ink tank and the ink in accordance with the installation of the head cartridge on the carriage HC.

As described above, each of the embodiments has its own effect, but it may be possible to combine a plurality of these embodiments to provide an ink jet recording apparatus having higher reliability.

5 In this regard, particularly among the ink jet recording methods, the present invention produces excellent effects in a recording head and recording apparatus which produces a change in the state of aggregation of the ink with means provided for generating thermal energy,

which is used to eject the ink (electrothermal transducer, laser beam or similar, for example).

As for the typical structure and operating principle of such a method, it is preferable to use those that can be used using the main principle used in the specifications of U.S. Patent Nos. 4,723,129 and 4,740,796. This method is applicable to a so-called on-demand recording system and a continuous recording system. In particular, however, it is suitable for the on-demand system because the principle is that at least one drive signal that provides a rapid temperature rise above a limit point of a nucleate boiling point in response to the recording information is applied to an electrothermal transducer disposed on a liquid (ink) retaining sheet or in a liquid channel, thereby causing the electrothermal transducers to generate thermal energy to cause film boiling on the thermally active portion of the recording head; this effectively leads to the resulting formation of a bubble in the recording liquid (ink) for each of the drive signals. By the development and collapse of the bubble, the liquid (ink) is ejected through a discharge port to produce at least one splash. The drive signal is preferably pulse-shaped because the development and collapse of the bubble can be effected instantaneously and therefore the liquid (ink) is ejected in a quick response.

0 The pulse-shaped drive signal is preferably as disclosed in the specifications of US Patents 4~463359 and 4345262.

In addition, the temperature rise gradient of the heating surface is preferably as disclosed in the specification of U.S. Patent 4,313,124 for excellent recording in a better condition.

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The structure of the recording head may be as mentioned in each of the above descriptions. The structure is arranged such that the discharge ports, liquid passages and electrothermal transducers are combined as disclosed in the above-mentioned patents (lens-shaped liquid passage or liquid passage at a right angle). In addition, the present invention also includes the structure disclosed in the specifications of U.S. Patents 4,558,333 and 4,459,600, wherein the thermally active portions are arranged in a curved region.

In addition, the invention is applicable to the structure disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 95-123670 in which a common slot is used as the discharge ports for a plurality of electrothermal transducers. The invention is also applicable to the structure disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 59-138461 in which an opening for absorbing the pressure wave of thermal energy is formed corresponding to the discharge ports. In other words, according to the present invention, it becomes possible to perform recording securely regardless of the types of recording heads.

Furthermore, it may be possible to arrange a structure as a full-line recording head with a length corresponding to the maximum recording width by either combining a plurality of recording heads disclosed in the above-mentioned descriptions or by providing a single recording head integrally constructed to cover such a length.

In addition, the present invention is applicable to a recording head that records serially, the recording head being mounted on the main assembly. It is applicable to a recording head with a replaceable chip that is electrically connected to the main assembly and that can be supplied with ink when mounted on the main assembly. It is also applicable to a recording head in car-

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tridge design, which has a one-piece ink tank.

It is also preferable to additionally provide recording head recovery means and preliminary means arranged as components of a recording apparatus according to the present invention. These elements contribute to making the effectiveness of the present invention even more stable. Specifically, such elements are capping means for the recording head, cleaning means, compression or suction means, preheating means such as electrothermal transducers or other heating elements such as those of the transfer type or a combination of these types of elements, and an operation mode for preliminary ejection in addition to the regular ejection for recording.

As for the type and number of the recording heads mountable on the carriage, there may be a single color ink or a plurality of heads corresponding to a plurality of ink materials having different recording colors or densities. The invention is effectively applicable to an apparatus having at least one of a single color mode mainly in black, a multi-color mode using various color ink materials, and/or a full color mode using the mixture of colors, which may be an integrally formed recording unit or a combination of a plurality of recording heads.

While in the above embodiments the ink has been described as a liquid, it may be an ink material which solidifies below room temperature and liquefies at room temperature. Since the ink is controlled within a temperature range of not lower than 30 ^° C and not higher than 70 ^° C to stabilize its viscosity so that continuous ejection is generally provided, the ink may be such that it is liquefied when applicable recording signals are given.

While the temperature rise due to thermal energy is prevented by the positive use of such energy, when the energy is consumed to change the states of the ink from solid to liquid, or when ink is used which solidifies when it remains intact with the aim of preventing evaporation of ink, it may be possible to apply to the present invention the use of an ink which naturally liquefies only upon application of thermal energy, such as an ink capable of being ejected as an ink liquid by allowing itself to become liquid in some way when the thermal energy is applied in accordance with recording signals. An ink which always starts to solidify at the time it reaches a recording medium may also be used.

As such an ink, it may be possible to hold the ink as a liquid or solid material in through-holes or recesses formed in a porous sheet as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 54-56847 or Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 60-71260 to perform an operation mode, thereby allowing the ink to face the electrothermal transducers in such a state.

The most effective method for each of the above-mentioned ink materials for the present invention is the one in which the film boiling method described above can be used.

Furthermore, as the mode of the foregoing ink jet recording apparatus, a copying machine combined with a reader or the like or a facsimile machine having transmission and reception functions or the like may be used, in addition to those used as an image output terminal of an information processing apparatus such as a computer.

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An ink jet recording apparatus comprises an ink tank containing ink; a recording head for performing recording by selectively ejecting ink; a mounting portion for mounting the ink tank and the recording head; a liquid channel connecting portion provided on either the ink tank or the recording head or both for separating or connecting the ink channels in the ink tank and the recording head; a holding portion provided on either the ink tank or the recording head or both for guiding the ink tank to the recording head to hold them in a separated manner; and an electrical or mechanical connecting portion provided on either the recording head or the mounting portion or both for connecting or separating the recording head from the mounting portion.

Claims (22)

&diams;» &diams;· »* f TIEDTKE - BÜHLHSPG ^: SRI-NSiE: & PARTNER Patent attorneys Tiedtke-Bühling-Kinne & Partner, POB 20 19 18, D-80019 Munich Represented at the EPO* Dipl.-Ing. H. Tiedtke" Dipl.-Chem. G. Bühling' Dipl.-Ing. R. Kinne* Dipl.-Ing. B. Pellmann* Dipl.-Ing. K. Grams' Dipl.-Biol. Dr. A. Link Dipl.-Ing. A. Vollnhals' Dipl.-Ing. T. Leson' Dipl.-Ing. H. Trösch Dipl.-Ing. Dr. G. Chivarov' Bavariaring 4, D-80336 Munich Utility model application G 92 18 960.1 CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA EN 17706 28 June 1996 1. Inkjet cartridge that can be removably mounted on a carriage of an inkjet device, the cartridge having the following components: a head housing provided with an inkjet head ; and an ink tank housing in which ink to be supplied to the ink jet head is stored, characterized in that the head housing has a frame member for supporting the ink jet head and for accommodating the ink tank housing, the frame member having a first engaging portion for engaging with the ink tank housing and a breakout portion used as a finger gripping portion for removing and assembling the ink tank housing, and the ink tank housing has a first engaging portion provided on the head housing and a second engaging portion for engaging with the first engaging portion, and the ink tank housing further has a finger gripping portion used for removing and assembling the ink tank housing. 2. Cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that the head housing is provided with an ink supply tube for supplying ink to the ink jet head, the ink supply tube protruding into the frame member. Telephone: 089-544690 100446.2361@COmpUServe.COm Dresdner Bank (Munich) Klo. 3939 844 (Bank code 700 800 00) ·· ·· i"* ·. "·· .. .. Deutsche Bank (Munich) Account 2861060 (bank code 700 70010) Fax (G3): 0 89-53 26 11 (ßuriäg* inlrofiiicfl9H*piiaäeimailbo)i Postbank (Munich) Account 670-43-eo4 (blz 7oo ioo so) &bull;&bull;J ,* ; J ; **;; j; ; Dai-ichi-Kangyo Bank (Munich) Account 51 042 (bank code 700 207 00) Telefax (<34): 0 69-53 29 09 50 (cheeR wilt b^«on+y two a week) Sanwa Bank (Dusseidorf) Kto. 500047 (blz 301307 oo> 3. A cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that the ink supply tube is inserted into an ink supply port provided on the ink tank housing by inserting the ink tank housing into the head housing to create an ink supply state. 4. Cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that the ink container housing is provided with a line confirming an assembly state on the head housing. 5. Cartridge according to claim 4, characterized in that the line is a mark on the head housing which is capable of confirming an assembly state on the head housing. 6. Cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that the first engaging portion provided on the head housing is elastically deformable, and the second engaging portion is provided on the ink container housing in three dimensions, the first engaging portion being elastically deformable to complete the engagement of the first and second engaging portions when the first engaging portion engages the second engaging portion. 7. Cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that the frame member has an opening for removing the ink container housing on a side opposite to a side on which a head is provided. 8. Cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that the ink container housing and the head housing are removably mounted on a carriage of an ink jet device when the ink container housing is connected to the head housing. 9. Inkjet cartridge which is removably mounted on a carriage of an inkjet device, the cartridge having the following components: a head housing provided with an ink jet head and with a receiving portion for receiving an ink tank storing ink to be supplied to the head; and
5 an ink tank that is removable on the receiving section is mounted to store the ink to be supplied to the head, characterized in that the receiving portion has an opening opening upward to a mounting direction of the head housing on the carriage and capable of removably mounting the ink tank, the carriage has an opening opening upward and capable of containing the head housing, and the ink tank is removably mounted when the head housing is mounted on the carriage or not. 10. Cartridge according to claim 9, characterized in that the ink jet head is provided with an ink supply tube which projects into the opening for mounting the ink container, the ink supply tube being inserted into the ink container by mounting the ink jet head above the ink container. 11. Cartridge according to claim 9, characterized in that the ink container is provided with a first connecting portion for connecting the ink container to the head housing, and wherein the head housing has a second connecting portion for connecting to the first connecting portion and a third connecting portion which is connected to the carriage. 12. Cartridge according to claim 11, characterized in that the carriage is provided with a fourth connecting section which is to be connected to the third connecting section. 13. Cartridge according to claim 9, characterized in that the ink container is provided with a finger gripping portion which is used to removably mount it. 14. An ink container containing ink to be supplied to an ink jet head, the ink jet head and the ink container being mountable on a carriage, the ink container being capable of supplying ink to the ink jet head when mounted on the carriage and being separable from the ink jet head via a lever portion mounted on the carriage, characterized in that the ink container has the following components: an ink accommodating portion for containing ink; a communication path for connecting the ink accommodating portion to an exterior of the ink tank, the communication path having an ink supply path for supplying ink from the ink accommodating portion to the ink jet head; and an engaging portion provided on an outer surface of the ink tank, the engaging portion engaging with the lever portion to separate the ink tank from the ink jet head. 15. An apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the ink jet head has an ink outlet port for discharging ink and an electrothermal transducer element, wherein ink is discharged from the ink outlet port by thermal energy generated by the electrothermal transducer element. 16. Replaceable ink container for an ink jet printer having a carriage adapted to scan a recording sheet, an ink jet print head having at least one connector and an ink supply inlet for supplying liquid ink to the ink jet print head mountable on the carriage to dispense liquid ink by the action of thermal energy to eject the ink while the carriage scans the recording sheet, and an ink tank receiving portion on the carriage for receiving the replaceable ink tank and supporting the same for connection to the ink jet print head using a movable mounting lever mechanism on the carriage, the ink tank comprising: a container having a reservoir for liquid ink to be supplied to the inkjet printhead, the container being configured to be received in the ink container receiving portion on the carriage; an ink supply outlet in the reservoir for supplying liquid ink from the reservoir to the ink supply inlet of the inkjet printhead; at least one engagement element on the container arranged relative to the ink supply outlet to cooperate with the connecting element on the ink jet print head so that the replaceable ink container is connected to the ink jet print head, the ink supply outlet being connected to the ink supply inlet upon movement of the mounting lever mechanism to a secured position; and an engagement portion on the outer surface of the container, the engagement portion being arranged to engage the mounting lever mechanism upon movement thereof to a replacement position to release the engagement member from the connecting member and separate the replaceable ink container from the inkjet printhead, thereby enabling removal of the replaceable ink container from the carriage. 17. A replaceable ink container according to claim 16, characterized in that the container has four generally rectangular side walls and two end walls, one of which has the ink supply outlet therein, the replaceable ink supply container further comprising two of the engaging elements to interact with corresponding connecting elements on the inkjet print head. 18. Replaceable ink container according to claim 17, characterized in that each of the engagement elements has a engaging notches extending beyond the end wall having the ink supply outlet therein, each of the engaging notches including a locking projection which is fitted into a recess in the ink jet head body. 10 19. Replaceable ink container according to claim 18, characterized in that each of the engagement tabs has a pointed end. 20. A replaceable ink container according to claim 17, characterized in that the container comprises a removable sealing element that seals the ink supply outlet. 21. A replaceable ink container according to claim 17, characterized in that the container includes a vent for introducing external air into the container as ink is supplied to the inkjet printhead. 22. Replaceable ink container according to claim 16, characterized characterized in that the engagement portion comprises a groove in a side wall of the container.