JP2018103140A - Fluid discharge device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technology which can suppress leakage of a fluid from a discharge port.SOLUTION: A fluid discharge device includes: a storage chamber which stores a fluid; a discharge port which discharges the fluid; a moving body which reciprocates between a first position where a tip end part opposite to the discharge port comes closest to the discharge port and a second position where the tip end part is away from the discharge port, and pushes out the fluid from the discharge port; and an inflow port from which the fluid flows in the storage chamber. The inflow port is positioned in a position separate from the moving body in an intersection direction with a moving direction. The moving body has a valve part which protrudes in the intersection direction and displaces in response to movement of the moving body. The valve part takes at least one of a state of closing at least a part of the inflow port and a state of positioning between the inflow port and the discharge port in the moving direction when the moving body is in the first position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a fluid ejection device.

  Conventionally, various fluid ejection devices that eject fluid from ejection ports have been proposed. For example, in the following Patent Document 1, in a liquid chamber that is a storage chamber, a plunger rod that is a moving body is reciprocated to push out liquid from a liquid chamber outlet that is a discharge port and discharge it as droplets. A jet discharge device is disclosed. A fluid ejection mechanism using a piston motion of a moving body as in Patent Document 1 is applied to an ink jet printer that ejects ink to produce a printed matter, or a 3D printer that ejects a liquid material to model a three-dimensional object. In some cases.

International Publication WO2008 / 146464 Pamphlet

  In the fluid discharge mechanism as described in Patent Document 1, the tip of the moving body and the peripheral edge of the discharge port are usually brought into contact with each other to close the discharge port, thereby suppressing fluid leakage from the discharge port. To do. In such a configuration, since the fluid is generally stored in the storage chamber at a high pressure, if a gap is generated between the distal end portion of the moving body and the peripheral portion of the discharge port, for example, it is about 1 μm. Even if it is a minute gap, fluid may leak from the gap. When powder or the like is contained in the fluid to be discharged, the gap described above is generated by the powder entering between the tip of the moving body and the peripheral edge of the discharge port. The possibility that it will end up increases. The leakage of fluid from the discharge port leads to waste of fluid. In addition, when the fluid to be discharged is, for example, a liquid or a highly viscous granular material, the fluid leaking from the discharge port adheres to the peripheral edge of the discharge port and is used for discharging the next fluid. It may have an adverse effect and may cause a discharge failure.

  Thus, in the technical field of fluid ejection devices, there is still room for improvement with respect to the technology for suppressing the leakage of fluid from such ejection ports. Such a problem is a problem common to a dispenser, an inkjet printer, and a 3D printer which are one embodiment of the fluid ejection device. In particular, in a 3D printer, in general, a liquid material having a high viscosity including a powder material may be used, and it is possible to generate a large pressure in the storage chamber and to prevent leakage of the liquid material from the discharge port. There is a great demand.

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

[1] According to an aspect of the present invention, a fluid ejection device is provided. The fluid discharge device includes a storage chamber, an inflow port, a discharge port, and a moving body. The storage chamber stores a fluid. The inlet is provided in the storage chamber, and allows the fluid to flow into the storage chamber from the outside of the storage chamber. The discharge port is provided in the storage chamber and discharges the fluid in the storage chamber. The movable body has a tip portion facing the discharge port in the storage chamber. The movable body reciprocates between a first position where the tip end is closest to the discharge port and a second position where the tip end is away from the discharge port. The moving body pushes the fluid from the discharge port by moving from the second position toward the first position. The inflow port is located in an intersecting direction intersecting a moving direction of the moving body with respect to the moving body. The moving body has a valve portion that protrudes in the intersecting direction and is displaced according to the movement of the moving body. The valve portion closes at least a part of the inflow port when the moving body is located at the first position, and is positioned between the inflow port and the discharge port in the moving direction. When the moving body is positioned at the second position, the moving body is positioned on the opposite side of the inflow port from the discharge port.
According to the fluid discharge device of this aspect, when the moving body is positioned at the first position, the flow of the fluid from the inlet to the outlet is suppressed by the valve unit. The amount can be reduced, and fluid leakage from the discharge port is suppressed.

[2] In the fluid ejection device of the above aspect, the valve portion locally protrudes toward the inflow port, and protrudes to close the inflow port when the movable body is located at the first position. May have a part.
According to the fluid discharge device of this aspect, when the moving body is located at the first position, the inflow port can be closed by the protrusion provided in the valve portion, and leakage of the fluid from the discharge port can be suppressed.

[3] In the fluid discharge device according to the above aspect, the valve section may include the fluid in the first area located closer to the discharge port than the valve section in the storage chamber, with the valve section interposed between the first area and the first area. You may have a guidance part which guides to the 2nd field located in the opposite side.
According to the fluid discharge device of this aspect, the guiding portion can reduce the movement resistance when the moving body moves toward the discharge port, and the movement of the moving body in the accommodation chamber can be facilitated.

[4] In the fluid ejection device of the above aspect, the guide portion may include a groove portion that connects the first region and the second region.
According to the fluid discharge device of this aspect, since the groove functions as a fluid flow path, the movement resistance of the moving body can be reduced. Further, the moving body can be reduced in weight by the amount of the groove.

[5] In the fluid ejection device of the above aspect, the guide portion may include a through hole including the first region and the second region.
According to the fluid ejection device of this aspect, since the through hole functions as a fluid flow path, the movement resistance of the moving body can be reduced. Further, the moving body can be reduced in weight by the amount of the through hole.

[6] In the fluid ejection device according to the above aspect, the guide portion faces the first region, and a portion closer to the end of the valve portion in the intersecting direction is located closer to the second region in the moving direction. An inclined surface may be included.
According to the fluid ejection device of this aspect, the movement resistance of the moving body can be reduced by the inclined surface.

[7] In the fluid ejection device according to the above aspect, the inner wall surface of the storage chamber is curved so as to surround the moving body when viewed along the moving direction, and the valve portion is formed of the inner wall surface. The guide portion may be formed as a gap between the inner wall surface and the flat side surface.
According to the fluid discharge device of this aspect, since the gap serving as the fluid escape portion is formed between the flat side surface of the valve portion and the inner wall surface of the storage chamber, the movement resistance of the moving body can be reduced.

[8] In the fluid ejection device of the above aspect, the valve portion is formed so as to surround a periphery of the moving body when viewed along the moving direction, and the accommodating chamber includes the moving direction. And when the movable body moves to the first position, it contacts the valve portion in the direction from the first position toward the second position, A valve seat portion that blocks the flow of the fluid from the inflow port to the discharge port is provided, and the distal end portion of the movable body is separated from the discharge port when the movable body is located at the first position. It may be separated.
According to the fluid discharge device of this aspect, when the moving body is located at the first position, the flow of the fluid to the discharge port is blocked by the valve unit coming into contact with the valve seat unit. Leakage of fluid is suppressed. Moreover, since it is suppressed that the front-end | tip part of a mobile body contacts the peripheral part of a discharge outlet, the deformation | transformation and damage of a discharge outlet by the contact of a mobile body are suppressed.

[9] In the fluid ejection device of the above aspect, the inlet may be provided at a position that is closed by the valve portion when the valve portion contacts the valve seat portion.
According to the fluid discharge device of this aspect, the flow of the fluid to the discharge port is blocked and the inflow port is closed by the valve portion by the contact between the valve portion and the valve seat portion. Therefore, fluid leakage from the discharge port is further suppressed.

[10] In the fluid discharge device according to the above aspect, the storage chamber further includes an outlet through which the fluid flows out of the storage chamber at a position away from the discharge port in the intersecting direction. The outlet may be provided at a position that is closed by the valve portion when the valve portion contacts the valve seat portion.
According to the fluid discharge device of this aspect, the change in the properties of the fluid due to the retention of the fluid in the storage chamber is suppressed by flowing the fluid from the inlet to the outlet in the storage chamber. Moreover, when the moving body is positioned at the first position, the outlet is closed by the valve portion, and it is possible to prevent the fluid from flowing out from the outlet.

[11] In the fluid discharge device according to the above aspect, the inlet and the outlet are open toward the valve portion in the valve seat portion, and the valve portion is in contact with the valve seat portion. It may be closed by the valve part.
According to the fluid discharge device of this aspect, the closing property of the inlet and the outlet by the valve portion is improved.

  A plurality of constituent elements of each aspect of the present invention described above are not indispensable, and some or all of the effects described in the present specification are to be solved to solve part or all of the above-described problems. In order to achieve the above, it is possible to appropriately change, delete, replace with a new other component, and partially delete the limited contents of some of the plurality of components. In order to solve part or all of the above-described problems or to achieve part or all of the effects described in this specification, technical features included in one embodiment of the present invention described above. A part or all of the technical features included in the other aspects of the present invention described above may be combined to form an independent form of the present invention.

  The present invention can be realized in various forms other than the fluid ejection device. For example, it is realized in the form of a head or dispenser that discharges fluid, a fluid discharge mechanism, a three-dimensional object forming apparatus that discharges fluid material to produce a three-dimensional object, an image forming apparatus that discharges ink to form an image Can do.

Schematic which shows the structure of the fluid discharge apparatus of 1st Embodiment. The 1st schematic diagram showing the discharge process in a discharge part. The 2nd schematic diagram which shows the discharge process in a discharge part. The 3rd schematic diagram which shows the discharge process in a discharge part. FIG. 9 is a fourth schematic diagram illustrating a discharge process in the discharge unit. Schematic which shows the structure of the discharge part of 2nd Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structure of the discharge part of 3rd Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structure of the discharge part of 4th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structure of the discharge part of 5th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structure of the discharge part of 6th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structure of the discharge part of 7th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structure of the discharge part of 8th Embodiment. The schematic sectional drawing of the discharge part of 8th Embodiment. The schematic sectional drawing of the discharge part of 9th Embodiment. The schematic sectional drawing of the discharge part of 10th Embodiment. The schematic sectional drawing of the discharge part of 11th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structure of the discharge part of 12th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structure of the discharge part of 13th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structure of the fluid discharge apparatus of 14th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structure of the discharge part of 15th Embodiment.

A. First embodiment:
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a fluid ejection device 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 1 shows an arrow G indicating the direction of gravity (vertical direction) when the fluid ejection device 100 is arranged in a normal use state. In this specification, “upper” or “lower” means a direction based on the vertical direction unless otherwise specified.

  The fluid ejection device 100 is a 3D printer that is a three-dimensional modeling device, and shapes a three-dimensional object by stacking layers in which the fluid FL is ejected and the fluid FL is cured. In the present specification, the term “ejection” means that fluid is discharged from the space in which the fluid is contained to the outside by some force including gravity, and includes “jet” that discharges the fluid by pressure. It is a concept. A specific example of the fluid FL that is ejected by the fluid ejection device 100 as the material of the three-dimensional object that is the modeling object will be described later. The fluid ejection device 100 includes a ejection unit 10A that ejects the fluid FL.

  The ejection unit 10A corresponds to a head in a 3D printer, and ejects a fluid FL, which is a fluid material, in the form of fluid droplets. “Fluid droplet” means a granular mass of fluid, or a droplet when the fluid is a liquid. The shape of the fluid droplet is not limited, and may be spherical, or may be a shape in which the spherical shape is extended in one direction, a needle shape, a rod shape, or a thread shape. Further, the number of fluid droplets ejected per ejection is not limited to one, and a plurality of fluid droplets may be ejected.

  The ejection unit 10 </ b> A includes a head main body 11. In the present embodiment, the head main body 11 is configured as a hollow container having a substantially cylindrical shape. The head main body 11 is made of a metal such as stainless steel, for example. The head main body 11 includes a storage chamber 12, a drive chamber 14, a moving body 20, and a drive unit 30.

  The storage chamber 12 is provided at the lower end of the head main body 11. The storage chamber 12 stores a fluid FL that is a discharge target of the discharge unit 10A. In the present embodiment, the storage chamber 12 is configured by a substantially columnar cavity. A supply flow path 15 for receiving a fluid FL pumped from a supply unit 50 described later is connected to the storage chamber 12 from the side. The supply flow path 15 is configured as a conduit that penetrates the outer wall of the head main body 11. In the side wall surface 12 w of the storage chamber 12, an inflow port 15 o into which the fluid FL flows from the supply channel 15 into the storage chamber 12 is opened.

  The storage chamber 12 is provided with a discharge port 16 that functions as a nozzle for discharging the fluid FL. The discharge port 16 is provided as a through hole that communicates from the storage chamber 12 to the outside of the head main body 11, and opens at the bottom surface 11 b of the head main body 11. In the present embodiment, the central axis NX of the discharge port 16 is a direction along the vertical direction, and opens downward in the bottom surface 11 b of the head main body 11. In the present embodiment, the discharge port 16 has a substantially circular opening cross section over the vertical direction. The opening diameter of the discharge port 16 may be about 10 to 200 μm, for example. The length of the discharge port 16 in the vertical direction may be about 10 to 30 μm, for example.

  An enlarged opening 18 is preferably provided above the discharge port 16. The enlarged opening 18 is an opening located above the discharge port 16 and connected to the discharge port 16. In the enlarged opening 18, the opening area becomes larger as it is closer to the tip 21 of the moving body 20. The enlarged opening 18 may be omitted.

  The drive chamber 14 is located above the storage chamber 12 and stores the drive unit 30. In the present embodiment, a seal member 19 is disposed at the boundary between the storage chamber 12 and the drive chamber 14. The seal member 19 is configured by, for example, a resin O-ring.

  The moving body 20 is disposed across the accommodation chamber 12 and the drive chamber 14. In this embodiment, the moving body 20 is comprised by the shaft-shaped member which has a substantially cylindrical main-body part. The moving body 20 is comprised by metals, such as stainless steel, for example. The diameter of the moving body 20 may be about 0.3 to 5 mm.

  In the present embodiment, the moving body 20 is arranged such that the central axis CX coincides with the central axis NX of the discharge port 16. The moving body 20 is hermetically inserted through the central through hole of the seal member 19 and is held in a state in which movement in the direction along its own central axis CX is allowed. In addition, when the seal member 19 is in close contact with the side surface of the moving body 20, the fluid FL in the storage chamber 12 is suppressed from entering the drive chamber 14.

  The fluid FL in the storage chamber 12 is discharged from the discharge port 16 by reciprocating the moving body 20 in the direction toward the discharge port 16 and in the direction away from the discharge port 16. In the present embodiment, the moving direction of the moving body 20 is a direction along the central axis CX of the moving body 20 and a direction along the vertical direction. The movable range of the moving body 20 may be, for example, about 10 to 500 μm. The discharge process of the fluid FL from the discharge port 16 will be described later.

  The distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 is disposed at a position facing the discharge port 16 in the storage chamber 12. The tip 21 contacts the peripheral edge of the discharge port 16 when the moving body 20 is closest to the discharge port 16 and closes the discharge port 16. It is desirable that the tip portion 21 is configured to be in line contact with the peripheral portion of the discharge port 16 when the discharge port 16 is closed. Therefore, it is desirable that the tip portion 21 has a substantially hemispherical shape that is convex toward the discharge port 16. The diameter of the tip 21 is preferably larger than the opening diameter of the discharge port 16 and smaller than the opening diameter at the upper end of the enlarged opening 18.

  A valve portion 25A is provided at a portion of the moving body 20 on the accommodation chamber 12 side. The valve portion 25 </ b> A protrudes in a direction that intersects the moving direction of the moving body 20, and is displaced in the storage chamber 12 as the moving body 20 moves. The valve portion 25A closes the inflow port 15o located at a position away from the moving body 20 in the crossing direction. Hereinafter, the direction intersecting the moving direction of the moving body 20 is also simply referred to as “crossing direction”. In the present embodiment, the valve portion 25 </ b> A protrudes in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the moving body 20. The valve portion 25 </ b> A of the present embodiment is configured by a substantially annular member surrounding the moving body 20. For example, the valve portion 25A may be made of resin or metal.

  The side surface 25 s of the valve portion 25 </ b> A is desirably slightly separated from the side wall surface 12 w of the storage chamber 12. The separation distance may be, for example, about several + μm to several mm. Thereby, an increase in the movement resistance of the moving body 20 and generation of frictional heat due to the movement of the moving body 20 are suppressed. The center of the valve portion 25A with respect to the central axis CX of the moving body 20 is such that the side surface 25s facing the inlet 15o can contact the peripheral edge of the inlet 15o and seal the inlet 15o. You may be located in the position slightly shifted | deviated to the inflow port 15o side. It is desirable that the moving body 20 is provided with a fixing portion that suppresses the rotation of the moving body 20 around the central axis CX so that the change in the positional relationship between the valve portion 25A and the inlet 15o is suppressed. Details and functions of the configuration of the valve portion 25A will be described later.

  The driving unit 30 is accommodated in the driving chamber 14 and generates a driving force for moving the moving body 20. In the present embodiment, the drive unit 30 is configured by a piezoelectric element that is also called a piezoelectric element. The drive unit 30 has a configuration in which a plurality of piezoelectric materials are stacked, and the length changes in the stacking direction according to the magnitude of the voltage applied to each piezoelectric material. One end of the drive unit 30 in the stacking direction is fixed to the upper wall surface of the drive chamber 14, and the other end is connected to a rear end located at the upper end of the moving body 20. The drive unit 30 is expanded and contracted by an electric drive force to displace the moving body 20.

  In addition to the drive unit 30, the driving chamber 14 is provided with an elastic force in a direction to move the moving body 20 in a direction away from the discharge port 16, and presses the moving body 20 toward the driving unit 30. May be arranged. A connecting member that connects the moving body 20 and the driving unit 30 may be disposed between the moving body 20 and the driving unit 30.

  The fluid ejection device 100 further includes a supply unit 50, a modeling stage 60, a moving mechanism 65, and an energy application unit 70 in addition to the ejection unit 10A. The supply unit 50 pressure-feeds the fluid FL to the storage chamber 12 of the discharge unit 10 </ b> A through the supply channel 15. The supply unit 50 includes a pipe 51, a fluid storage unit 52, and a pressure generation unit 53.

  The pipe 51 connects the supply flow path 15 of the head main body 11 and the fluid storage part 52. The fluid storage unit 52 is a supply source of the fluid FL in the fluid ejection device 100, and is configured by a tank that stores the fluid FL. In the fluid storage part 52, the viscosity of the fluid FL is maintained at a predetermined viscosity by mixing the solvent with the stored fluid FL. The viscosity of the fluid FL may be, for example, about 50 to 40,000 mPa · s.

  The pressure generating unit 53 is configured by a pressurizing pump, for example. The pressure generation unit 53 applies pressure for pressure-feeding the fluid FL in the fluid storage unit 52 to the head main body 11 via the pipe 51. The pressure generating unit 53 applies a pressure of about 0.4 to 0.6 MPa to the fluid FL, for example. In FIG. 1, the pressure generation unit 53 is provided on the upstream side of the fluid storage unit 52, but the pressure generation unit 53 may be provided on the downstream side of the fluid storage unit 52.

  The modeling stage 60 is arranged at the tip in the opening direction of the discharge port 16 in the discharge unit 10A. The discharge unit 10A discharges the fluid FL using the modeling stage 60 as a target object. A three-dimensional object is modeled by the fluid droplet of the fluid FL that has landed on the modeling stage 60. In the present embodiment, the modeling stage 60 is configured by a flat plate-like member and is disposed substantially horizontally. The modeling stage 60 is arrange | positioned in the position which left | separated about 1.5-3 mm vertically downward from the discharge outlet 16, for example.

  The moving mechanism 65 includes a motor, a roller, a shaft, and various actuators for displacing the modeling stage 60 with respect to the discharge unit 10A. The moving mechanism 65 displaces the modeling stage 60 in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction relative to the discharge unit 10A. Thereby, the landing position of the fluid FL on the modeling stage 60 is adjusted. The fluid ejection device 100 may be configured such that the position of the modeling stage 60 is fixed and the ejection unit 10A is displaced with respect to the modeling stage 60 by a moving mechanism.

  The energy applying unit 70 applies energy to the fluid FL that has landed on the modeling stage 60 and cures it. In this embodiment, the energy provision part 70 is comprised with a laser apparatus, and provides optical energy to the fluid FL by laser irradiation. The energy applying unit 70 includes at least a laser light source, a condensing lens for condensing the laser emitted from the laser light source onto the fluid FL that has landed on the modeling stage 60, a galvanometer mirror for scanning the laser, (Not shown). The energy applying unit 70 scans the landing position of the fluid droplet on the modeling stage 60 with a laser, and sinters the powder material in the fluid FL with the optical energy of the laser. Alternatively, the powder material in the fluid FL is once melted and bonded. Thereby, a material layer constituting the three-dimensional object is formed on the modeling stage 60.

  The energy applying unit 70 may cure the fluid FL by a method other than laser irradiation. The energy applying unit 70 may cure the fluid FL by irradiation with ultraviolet rays, or may cure at least a part of the solvent of the fluid FL by heating with a heater to cure the powder material. In addition, the three-dimensional object modeled on the modeling stage 60 may be subjected to a sintering process in a heating furnace as necessary.

  With the above configuration, the fluid ejection device 100 of the present embodiment forms a three-dimensional object using the fluid FL to be ejected as a material. A specific example of the fluid FL that is a material of the three-dimensional object will be described. In the present embodiment, the fluid FL is a paste-like fluid composition containing a powder material and a solvent. The fluid FL may include a powder material and a solvent. As a powder material, for example, magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni) simple powder, Alternatively, alloy powders containing one or more of these metals (maraging steel, stainless steel, cobalt chromium molybdenum, titanium alloy, nickel alloy, aluminum alloy, cobalt alloy, cobalt chromium alloy), or a single powder or alloy powder are selected. 1 type or 2 types or more mixed powders may be used. The solvent of the fluid FL is, for example, water; (poly) alkylene glycol monoalkyl ethers such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, propylene glycol monoethyl ether; ethyl acetate, n-propyl acetate Acetates such as iso-propyl acetate, n-butyl acetate and iso-butyl acetate; aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene and xylene; methyl ethyl ketone, acetone, methyl isobutyl ketone, ethyl n-butyl ketone, diisopropyl ketone , Ketones such as acetylacetone; alcohols such as ethanol, propanol, butanol; tetraalkylammonium acetates; dimethyl sulfoxide, diethyl sulfoxide, etc. Sulfoxide solvents; pyridine solvents such as pyridine, γ-picoline, 2,6-lutidine; ionic liquids such as tetraalkylammonium acetate (for example, tetrabutylammonium acetate), or one or two selected from these It may be a combination of more than one species.

  The fluid FL may be a mixed material in which the powder material and the solvent are mixed with a binder to form a slurry or a paste. The binder may be, for example, an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a silicone resin, a cellulosic resin or other synthetic resin, PLA (polylactic acid), PA (polyamide), PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), or other thermoplastic resin. . The fluid FL is not limited to the one containing the above powder material. For example, the fluid FL is obtained by melting a resin such as general-purpose engineering plastics such as polyamide, polyacetal, polycarbonate, modified polyphenylene ether, polybutylene terephthalate, and polyethylene terephthalate. Also good. The fluid FL may be a resin such as engineering plastics such as polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyphenylene sulfide, polyarylate, polyimide, polyamideimide, polyetherimide, and polyetheretherketone. The fluid FL may contain metals other than the above metals, ceramics, resins, and the like. The fluid FL may contain a sintering aid.

  With reference to FIGS. 2A to 2D, the discharge process of the fluid FL in the discharge unit 10 </ b> A will be described. FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram illustrating a state where the discharge port 16 is closed by the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20. FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram illustrating a state when the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 is at a position farthest from the discharge port 16. FIG. 2C is a schematic diagram illustrating a state when the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 is moving toward the discharge port 16. FIG. 2D is a schematic diagram illustrating a state when the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 is moving in a direction away from the discharge port 16.

  First, before the start of the discharge process, the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1 where the tip 21 is closest to the discharge port 16 (FIG. 2A). In the present embodiment, the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 closes the discharge port 16 when the moving body 20 is positioned at the first position P1. Further, the valve portion 25A is located at a position where the side surface 25s faces the inflow port 15o and closes the entire inflow port 15o.

  In this specification, the state where the entire inlet 15o is “closed” includes the state where the entire inlet 15o is completely sealed and the case where the entire inlet 15o is substantially blocked. Including the state. That is, the communication with the storage chamber 12 may not be completely blocked, and a minute gap may be formed between the valve portion 25A and the inflow port 15o. It is only necessary that the inflow of the fluid FL from the valve portion 25A is substantially blocked with respect to a state in which an inflow port 15o described later is opened. In the state where the inflow port 15o is “closed”, for example, the flow rate of the fluid FL flowing into the storage chamber 12 through the inflow port 15o is 90 to 100 with respect to the state where the inflow port 15o is opened. It is good also as what includes the state reduced about%.

  In the discharging step, first, the drive unit 30 is contracted, and the moving body 20 is moved to the second position P2 where the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 is separated from the discharge port 16 and the discharge port 16 is opened (FIG. 2B). . In the present embodiment, the second position P <b> 2 of the moving body 20 is a position where the distal end portion 21 is farthest from the discharge port 16. The movement of the moving body 20 from the first position P1 to the second position P2 is desirably performed instantaneously. The moving time of the moving body 20 at this time may be, for example, about 5 to 400 μs.

  Thereafter, the moving body 20 is positioned at the second position P2 for a predetermined waiting time. The standby time may be, for example, about 100 to 300 μs. When the moving body 20 is located at the second position P2, the valve portion 25A is located on the opposite side of the discharge port 16 with respect to the inlet 15o in the moving direction of the moving body 20, and the inlet 15o is the valve portion. 25A is separated and opened. Therefore, while the moving body 20 is located at the second position P2, the tip 21 and the discharge port 16 are used as indicated by the arrow f1 with the pressure applied by the pressure generator 53 as a driving force. The fluid FL flows into the area between the two.

  After the waiting time, the drive unit 30 is extended again to move the moving body 20 toward the discharge port 16 (FIG. 2C). When the moving body 20 moves toward the discharge port 16, the fluid FL is pushed out toward the discharge port 16 by the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 as indicated by an arrow f <b> 2, and is discharged from the discharge port 16. It starts to flow out of the head main body 11. When the moving body 20 reaches the first position P1 as it is and the tip 21 closes the discharge port 16, the fluid FL flowing out from the discharge port 16 is separated from the fluid FL in the discharge port 16, and the fluid FL The fluid droplets fly toward a predetermined target position on the modeling stage 60 (FIG. 2D).

  In the discharge process of the fluid discharge device 100, the reciprocating movement between the first position P1 and the second position P2 of the moving body 20 shown in FIGS. 2A to 2D is repeated, and fluid droplets of the fluid FL are continuously formed. Discharged. In the fluid discharge device 100, when the discharge of the fluid FL is stopped and the standby state is set, the moving body 20 is moved to the first position P1, the discharge port 16 is closed by the tip portion 21, and the flow is discharged by the valve portion 25A. The inlet 15o is closed (FIG. 2A).

  In the fluid ejection device 100 of the present embodiment, when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1, the valve portion 25A closes the inflow port 15o, and the inflow of the fluid FL from the inflow port 15o to the storage chamber 12 is a valve. It is blocked by the part 25A. Therefore, even if a minute gap is generated between the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 and the discharge port 16, the fluid FL is suppressed from leaking from the gap, and the bottom surface 11 b of the head main body portion 11 is prevented. The leaked fluid FL is prevented from adhering to the periphery of the discharge port 16. As a result, the trailing end portion of the fluid droplet of the fluid FL to be ejected in the next ejection step pulls a thread between the fluid FL and the fluid FL to which it adheres, resulting in fluid FL ejection failure. Is suppressed. Further, since the adhesion of the leaked fluid FL to the periphery of the discharge port 16 is suppressed, the cleaning process of the bottom surface 11b of the head main body 11 can be reduced or omitted.

  Note that while the moving body 20 is moved to the first position P1 and the discharge of the fluid FL is stopped, the pressure applied to the fluid in the pipe 51 is temporarily reduced by the pressure generator 53. Alternatively, it is desirable that the pressurization by the pressure generator 53 is stopped. As a result, the leakage of the fluid FL from the discharge port 16 can be further suppressed.

  As described above, according to the fluid ejection device 100 of the present embodiment, when the ejection port 16 is located at the first position P1 where the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 is closed, the inlet 15o is moved to the ejection port 16. The flow of the fluid FL toward is blocked by the valve portion 25A. Therefore, even when a minute gap is formed between the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 and the discharge port 16, the leakage of the fluid FL from the discharge port 16 is suppressed, and a problem caused by such leakage of the fluid FL. Is suppressed.

B. Second embodiment:
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10B included in the fluid discharge device of the second embodiment. The configuration of the fluid ejection device of the second embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment except that the configuration of the ejection unit 10B is different. The configuration of the discharge unit 10B of the second embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the discharge unit 10A of the first embodiment, except that the position of the valve unit 25A in the moving body 20 is different.

  In the discharge unit 10B of the second embodiment, the valve body 25A moves when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1 where the tip 21 is closest to the discharge port 16 and closes the discharge port 16. It is located between the inflow port 15o and the discharge port 16 in the moving direction of the body 20. Therefore, the resistance (flow path resistance) received by the fluid FL flowing from the inlet 15o to the outlet 16 in the storage chamber 12 is increased by the valve portion 25A. Therefore, even if the fluid FL begins to leak from a minute gap between the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 and the discharge port 16, the flow of the fluid FL from the inlet 15o toward the discharge port 16 is caused by the valve portion 25A. The amount of the fluid FL that is suppressed and leaks from the discharge port 16 is reduced. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the second embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the first embodiment can be achieved.

C. Third embodiment:
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10 </ b> C included in the fluid discharge device of the third embodiment. The configuration of the fluid ejection device of the third embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment, except that the configuration of the ejection unit 10C is different. The configuration of the discharge unit 10C of the third embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the discharge unit 10A of the first embodiment except that the position of the valve unit 25A in the moving body 20 is different.

  In the discharge unit 10C of the third embodiment, when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1, the valve portion 25A is positioned slightly above the inflow port 15o in the moving direction of the moving body 20. Then, a part of the inlet 15o is closed. Thus, in the fluid discharge device of the third embodiment, the valve portion 25A suppresses the outflow of the fluid FL from the inlet 15o, and the fluid FL flows from the inlet 15o to the outlet 16 in the storage chamber 12. The resistance received by is increased. Therefore, even if the fluid FL starts to leak from a minute gap between the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 and the discharge port 16, the flow of the fluid FL toward the discharge port 16 from the inlet 15o by the valve portion 25A. Is suppressed, and leakage of the fluid FL from the discharge port 16 is suppressed. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the third embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

D. Fourth embodiment:
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10 </ b> D included in the fluid discharge device of the fourth embodiment. The configuration of the fluid ejection device 100D of the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment except for the points described below. In the fluid ejection device 100 </ b> D of the fourth embodiment, the pipe 51 connected to the fluid reservoir 52 is connected to the head main body 11 via a plurality of branch pipes 54. Further, in the ejection unit 10D provided in the fluid ejection device 100D, the head main body unit 11 is provided with a plurality of supply channels 15p. Each supply flow path 15p is connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of branch pipes 54. In the storage chamber 12, a plurality of inflow ports 15o that are open ends of the supply channels 15p are opened. In the present embodiment, the plurality of inlets 15 o are arranged in a line along the moving direction of the moving body 20.

  In the discharge unit 10D of the fourth embodiment, the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 closes the discharge port 16 when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1. Then, the valve portion 25A faces a part of the plurality of inflow ports 15o on the side surface 25s and closes the part of the inflow ports 15o. At this time, the valve portion 25A desirably closes the inflow port 15o arranged on the discharge port 16 side. According to the fluid ejection device of the fourth embodiment, when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1, even if there is a gap in the ejection port 16, some of the plurality of inflow ports 15o are blocked. As a result, the amount of the fluid FL flowing to the discharge port 16 is reduced. Therefore, leakage of the fluid FL from the discharge port 16 is suppressed. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device 100D of the fourth embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

E. Fifth embodiment:
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10E included in the fluid discharge device of the fifth embodiment. The configuration of the fluid ejection device of the fifth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment, except that the configuration of the ejection unit 10E is different. The configuration of the discharge unit 10E of the fifth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the discharge unit 10A of the first embodiment, except that the movable body 20 is provided with a valve unit 25E having a protruding portion 26. In the discharge unit 10E of the fifth embodiment, when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1 and the discharge port 16 is closed, the valve unit 25E is on the second position P2 side above the inflow port 15o. Is located. A protruding portion 26 that locally protrudes toward the lower discharge port 16 side is provided on the surface of the valve portion 25E on the discharge port 16 side. The protrusion 26 is located at a position facing the inflow port 15o when the movable body 20 is positioned at the first position P1, and closes the inflow port 15o at a side surface 26s thereof. According to the fluid ejection device of the fifth embodiment, when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1, the protrusion of the valve portion 25E causes the fluid FL to flow into the storage chamber 12 from the inlet 15o. It is suppressed. Therefore, leakage of the fluid FL from the discharge port 16 is suppressed. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the fifth embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

F. Sixth embodiment:
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10F included in the fluid discharge device of the sixth embodiment. The configuration of the fluid ejection device of the sixth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment except that the configuration of the ejection unit 10F is different. The configuration of the discharge unit 10F of the sixth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the discharge unit 10A of the first embodiment, except that the shape of the valve unit 25F is different.

  Hereinafter, a region located on the discharge port 16 side of the valve portion 25F in the storage chamber 12 is referred to as a “first region AF”, and a region located on the opposite side of the first region AF across the valve portion 25F is referred to as a “first region AF”. This is referred to as “two regions AS”. The valve portion 25F of the sixth embodiment has an inclined surface 25i that functions as a guide portion that guides the fluid FL in the first area AF to the second area AS when the moving body 20 moves toward the discharge port 16. doing.

  The inclined surface 25i is a surface on the discharge port 16 side of the valve portion 25F. The inclined surface 25i is inclined so that the portion closer to the end of the valve portion 25F in the crossing direction intersecting the moving direction of the moving body 20 is located on the second region AS side in the moving direction of the moving body 20. When the moving body 20 moves toward the discharge port 16, the fluid FL on the first area AF side is guided to the second area AS side along the inclined surface 25i. Thereby, the movement resistance, which is the resistance received by the valve portion 25F from the fluid FL, is reduced, and the movement of the moving body 20 is facilitated.

  Note that the valve portion 25F has a side surface 25s facing the inflow port 15o at the end on the inflow port 15o side in the crossing direction when the movable body 20 is located at the first position P1. Thereby, when the moving body 20 is located in the 1st position P1, the inflow port 15o is obstruct | occluded by the side surface 25s of the valve part 25F.

  As described above, according to the fluid ejection device of the sixth embodiment, the movement of the moving body 20 is facilitated by having the inclined surface 25i as the guiding portion, and the fluid FL ejection process is performed. Increased efficiency. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the sixth embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

G. Seventh embodiment:
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10 </ b> G included in the fluid discharge device of the seventh embodiment. The configuration of the fluid ejection device of the seventh embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment except that the configuration of the ejection unit 10G is different. The configuration of the discharge unit 10G of the seventh embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the discharge unit 10A of the first embodiment, except that the shape of the valve unit 25G is different.

  The valve portion 25G of the seventh embodiment is provided with a tapered portion 25tp functioning as a guiding portion for guiding the fluid FL of the first region AF on the discharge port 16 side to the second region AS side on the discharge port 16 side. . The taper portion 25tp is a portion that decreases in diameter as it approaches the discharge port 16. The side surface 25 tps of the tapered portion 25 tp configures an inclined surface that is located closer to the second region AS in a portion closer to the outer peripheral end of the valve portion 25G. The valve portion 25G has a side surface 25s that faces the inflow port 15o and closes the inflow port 15o when the movable body 20 is positioned at the first position P1 above the tapered portion 25tp.

  According to the fluid discharge device of the seventh embodiment, since the valve portion 25G has the tapered portion 25tp, the movement resistance when the moving body 20 moves toward the discharge port 16 is reduced, and the moving body 20 The movement is smooth. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the seventh embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

H. Eighth embodiment:
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10H included in the fluid discharge device of the eighth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the discharge unit 10H in the XX section shown in FIG. The configuration of the fluid ejection device of the eighth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment except that the configuration of the ejection unit 10H is different. The configuration of the discharge unit 10H of the eighth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the discharge unit 10A of the first embodiment, except that the shape of the valve unit 25H is different.

  The valve portion 25H of the eighth embodiment has a side surface 25s that faces the inflow port 15o and closes the inflow port 15o when the movable body 20 is located at the first position P1. In addition, the valve portion 25H has a planar flat side surface 25p that faces the side wall surface 12w that is the inner wall surface of the storage chamber 12 facing the moving body 20 in the crossing direction, in a portion other than the side surface 25s. The flat side surface 25p is formed as a flat portion formed by cutting out a part of the outer peripheral side surface of the valve portion 25H. The flat side surface 25p may be provided only at one place, or may be provided at a plurality of places.

  The side wall surface 12w of the storage chamber 12 forms a curved surface that surrounds the moving body 20 when viewed along the moving direction of the moving body 20. Therefore, a gap GP is formed between the side wall surface 12w of the storage chamber 12 and the flat side surface 25p of the valve portion 25H to connect the first area AF and the second area AS on the discharge port 16 side. When the moving body 20 moves toward the discharge port 16, the fluid FL in the first area AF flows to the second area AS via the gap GP. The gap GP functions as a guide unit that guides the fluid FL in the first area AF to the second area AS.

  According to the fluid discharge device of the eighth embodiment, the movement resistance when the moving body 20 moves toward the discharge port 16 is reduced because the valve portion 25H has the flat side surface 25p. Further, the valve portion 25H is reduced in size and weight by the amount of the flat side surface 25p. Therefore, the movement of the moving body 20 is further smoothed. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the eighth embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

I. Ninth embodiment:
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10I included in the fluid discharge device according to the ninth embodiment. FIG. 11 shows a schematic cross section of the discharge section 10I at the same cutting position as the XX cutting shown in FIG. The configuration of the fluid ejection device of the ninth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment, except that the configuration of the ejection unit 10I is different. The configuration of the discharge unit 10I of the ninth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the discharge unit 10A of the first embodiment, except that the groove 27 is provided in the valve unit 25I.

  A groove portion 27 that extends along the moving direction of the moving body 20 and connects the first region AF and the second region AS is provided on the outer peripheral side surface of the valve portion 25I. The groove portion 27 is provided as a concave portion that is recessed toward the center of the valve portion 25I. Only one groove portion 27 may be provided, or a plurality of groove portions 27 may be provided. When the moving body 20 moves toward the discharge port 16, the fluid FL in the first area AF flows to the second area AS via the groove 27. The groove portion 27 functions as a guide portion that guides the fluid FL in the first area AF to the second area AS.

  According to the fluid discharge device of the ninth embodiment, the movement resistance when the moving body 20 moves toward the discharge port 16 is reduced because the valve portion 25I has the groove portion 27. Further, the valve portion 25I is reduced in size and weight by the amount of the groove portion 27 formed. Therefore, the movement of the moving body 20 is further smoothed. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the ninth embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

J. Tenth embodiment:
FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10J included in the fluid discharge device according to the tenth embodiment. FIG. 12 shows a schematic cross section of the discharge section 10J at the same cutting position as the XX cutting shown in FIG. The configuration of the fluid ejection device of the tenth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment except that the configuration of the ejection unit 10J is different. The configuration of the discharge unit 10J of the tenth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the discharge unit 10A of the first embodiment, except that the through hole 28 is provided in the valve unit 25J.

  The valve portion 25J is provided with a through hole 28 that penetrates the valve portion 25J along the moving direction of the moving body 20. The through hole 28 connects the first area AF and the second area AS. Only one through hole 28 may be provided in the valve portion 25J, or a plurality of through holes 28 may be provided. When the moving body 20 moves toward the discharge port 16, the fluid FL in the first area AF flows to the second area AS through the through hole 28. The through hole 28 functions as a guiding portion that guides the fluid FL in the first area AF to the second area AS.

  According to the fluid discharge device of the tenth embodiment, the movement resistance when the moving body 20 moves toward the discharge port 16 is reduced by the valve portion 25J having the through hole 28. Further, the valve portion 25J is reduced in weight by the amount that the through hole 28 is formed. Therefore, the movement of the moving body 20 is further smoothed. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the tenth embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

K. Eleventh embodiment:
FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10K included in the fluid discharge device according to the eleventh embodiment. FIG. 13 shows a schematic cross section of the discharge section 10K at a cutting position similar to the XX cutting shown in FIG. The configuration of the fluid ejection device of the eleventh embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment, except that the configuration of the ejection unit 10K is different. The configuration of the discharge unit 10K according to the eleventh embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the discharge unit 10A according to the first embodiment, except that the shape of the valve unit 25K is changed and a protruding portion 26a is provided.

  The valve portion 25K of the eleventh embodiment has a protruding portion 26a that locally protrudes in the radial direction of the valve portion 25K that is the intersecting direction on the outer peripheral side surface thereof. The end surface 26as at the tip of the protrusion 26a faces the inflow port 15o and closes the inflow port 15o when the movable body 20 is located at the first position P1. The side surface 25s of the valve portion 25K at a portion other than the protruding portion 26a is sufficiently separated from the side wall surface 12w of the storage chamber 12. As a result, the valve portion 25K is made smaller and lighter than the valve portion 25A of the first embodiment, and the movement resistance when the moving body 20 reciprocates is reduced. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the eleventh embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

L. Twelfth embodiment:
FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10L included in the fluid discharge device of the twelfth embodiment. FIG. 14 illustrates a state in which the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1 that is closest to the discharge port 16. The configuration of the fluid ejection device of the twelfth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment, except that the configuration of the ejection unit 10L is different. The configuration of the discharge unit 10L of the twelfth embodiment is that the valve seat 40 is provided in the storage chamber 12, and the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 contacts the peripheral edge of the discharge port 16 at the first position P1. Except for not doing so, the configuration is substantially the same as that of the ejection unit 10A of the first embodiment.

  The valve seat portion 40 is provided above the discharge port 16, and is formed as a step portion in the accommodation chamber 12 formed at the upper end of the enlarged opening 18. The valve seat portion 40 is formed so as to surround the discharge port 16 when viewed along the moving direction of the moving body 20. The valve seat portion 40 has a valve seat surface 42 that faces in a direction from the first position P1 to the second position P2.

  When the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1 that is closest to the discharge port 16, the valve seat portion 40 is positioned in the direction from the first position P1 to the second position P2 with respect to the valve portion 25A. The valve portion 25A is received by coming into contact with 25A. At this time, the valve portion 25A is located below the inflow port 15o. The valve portion 25 </ b> A is located between the inflow port 15 o and the discharge port 16 in the moving direction of the moving body 20.

  In the discharge part 10L of the twelfth embodiment, when the moving body 20 moves to the first position P1 and the valve part 25A and the valve seat part 40 come into contact with each other, there is no discharge between the valve part 25A and the valve seat part 40. A seal line surrounding the outlet 16 is formed. Accordingly, the flow of the fluid FL from the inlet 15o toward the discharge port 16 is blocked by the valve portion 25A, and leakage of the fluid FL from the discharge port 16 is suppressed.

  In the discharge process of the discharge unit 10L of the twelfth embodiment, after the moving body 20 reaches the first position P1 from the second position P2, the moving body 20 instantaneously moves again toward the second position P2. As a result, a negative pressure is temporarily generated between the discharge port 16 and the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20, and a force for pulling back the fluid FL in the discharge port 16 toward the storage chamber 12 is generated. The fluid FL flowing out from the outlet 16 is separated. In the fluid FL discharge process, as described above, the discharge unit 10L naturally separates the fluid FL discharged from the discharge port 16 by gravity without generating a negative pressure due to the movement of the moving body 20. It is good also as what makes it.

  In the discharge process in the discharge unit 10L of the twelfth embodiment, the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 does not contact the peripheral edge of the discharge port 16, so that deformation and damage of the discharge port 16 due to repeated collisions of the mobile body 20 are suppressed. The Therefore, leakage of the fluid FL due to deformation / damage of the discharge port 16 is suppressed.

  As described above, according to the fluid discharge device of the twelfth embodiment, the valve positioned between the inflow port 15o and the discharge port 16 when the moving body 20 is at the first position P1 closest to the discharge port 16. The leakage of the fluid FL from the discharge port 16 is suppressed by the portion 25A. Further, since the distal end portion 21 of the moving body 20 does not contact the peripheral edge of the discharge port 16, the discharge port 16 is protected from the collision of the moving body 20. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the twelfth embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

M. Thirteenth embodiment:
FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10M included in the fluid discharge device according to the thirteenth embodiment. The configuration of the fluid ejection device according to the thirteenth embodiment is the twelfth embodiment except that when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1, the side surface 25s of the valve portion 25A is located at a position where the inlet 15o is closed. This is almost the same as the configuration of the fluid discharge device of the embodiment. In the discharge unit 10M included in the fluid discharge device of the thirteenth embodiment, when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1, a seal line is formed between the valve unit 25A and the valve seat unit 40, and the valve The inlet 15o is closed by the portion 25A. Therefore, the leakage of the fluid FL from the discharge port 16 is further suppressed as compared with the twelfth embodiment. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the thirteenth embodiment, various functions and effects similar to those described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

N. Fourteenth embodiment:
FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a fluid ejection device 100N according to the fourteenth embodiment. FIG. 16 illustrates a state when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1. The fluid ejection device 100N according to the fourteenth embodiment includes the circulation unit 55 and is configured to circulate and re-supply the fluid FL supplied to the storage chamber 12. The configuration is almost the same as that of the discharge device (FIGS. 1 and 15).

  In the ejection unit 10N of the fourteenth embodiment, the outflow channel 56 is provided in the head main body 11. The outflow channel 56 is configured as a conduit that passes through the outer wall of the head main body 11 and is connected to the storage chamber 12. In addition to the inflow port 15 o, the storage chamber 12 has an outflow port 56 o through which the fluid FL flows out to the outflow channel 56. The inflow port 15 o and the outflow port 56 o are open toward the side surface of the moving body 20.

  The fluid discharge device 100 </ b> N includes a circulation unit 55 that circulates the fluid FL flowing out of the storage chamber 12 through the outflow channel 56 to the supply unit 50. The circulation unit 55 includes a pipe 57 that connects the outflow channel 56 and the fluid storage unit 52 of the supply unit 50, and a flow rate adjustment unit 58 that adjusts the flow rate of the fluid FL in the pipe 57. The fluid FL that has flowed out of the storage chamber 12 flows into the pipe 57 via the outflow channel 56. The fluid FL in the pipe 57 is circulated to the fluid storage unit 52 of the supply unit 50.

  The flow rate adjusting unit 58 adjusts the flow rate of the fluid FL in the pipe 57 so that the internal pressure of the storage chamber 12 is maintained at a pressure suitable for discharging the fluid FL from the discharge port 16. For example, the flow rate adjusting unit 58 may be configured by a valve such as a regulator or an on-off valve, or may be configured by a pump. By providing the circulation part 55, the flow of the fluid FL from the inflow port 15o to the outflow port 56o can be generated in the storage chamber 12. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the particles contained in the fluid FL from staying in the storage chamber 12 and the change in the concentration of the fluid FL due to evaporation of the solvent component.

  In the discharge unit 10N of the fourteenth embodiment, the outlet 56o is provided at the same height as the inlet 15o. When the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1 and the valve portion 25A is received by the valve seat portion 40, the outlet 56o is closed together with the inlet 15o by the side surface 25s of the valve portion 25A.

  According to the fluid ejection device 100N of the fourteenth embodiment, in the ejection process, the outlet 56o is closed by the valve portion 25A as the moving body 20 approaches the ejection port 16. Therefore, the pressure for discharging the fluid FL from the discharge port 16 can be prevented from escaping to the outlet 56o, and the occurrence of defective discharge of the fluid FL due to insufficient pressure can be suppressed. Further, when the moving body 20 is positioned at the first position P1, the valve portion 25A suppresses the leakage of the fluid FL from the discharge port 16, and the fluid FL flows out from the outlet 56o in vain. Is suppressed. Furthermore, according to the fluid discharge device of the fourteenth embodiment, as described in the twelfth embodiment, deformation / damage of the discharge port 16 due to the collision of the moving body 20 is suppressed. In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the fourteenth embodiment, various functions and effects described in the above embodiments can be achieved.

P. Fifteenth embodiment:
FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a discharge unit 10P included in the fluid discharge device of the fifteenth embodiment. The configuration of the fluid ejection device of the fifteenth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the fluid ejection device 100N of the fourteenth embodiment, except that the configuration of the ejection unit 10P is different. The configuration of the discharge unit 10P of the fifteenth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the discharge unit 10N of the fourteenth embodiment, except that the configuration in the storage chamber 12 is different and the shape of the valve unit 25P is different. It is.

  In the discharge portion 10P of the fifteenth embodiment, the inflow port 15o and the outflow port 56o are respectively positioned in the crossing direction with respect to the moving body 20, and open upward on the valve seat surface 42 of the valve seat portion 40. Yes. The valve portion 25P is enlarged in size in the radial direction so as to cover the inflow port 15o and the outflow port 56o in the valve seat surface 42. In the discharge unit 10P of the fifteenth embodiment, when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1 closest to the discharge port 16, the valve unit 25Q closes the inlet 15o and the outlet 56o from above. Further, when the moving body 20 moves from the first position P1 toward the second position P2, the valve portion 25Q is separated upward with respect to the inflow port 15o and the outflow port 56o, and the inflow port 15o and the outflow port 56o. Is released.

  According to the fluid discharge device of the fifteenth embodiment, since the inlet 15o and the outlet 56o are provided on the valve seat surface 42, the inlet 15o and the outlet 56o are more tightly closed by the valve portion 25P. The In addition, according to the fluid ejection device of the fifteenth embodiment, the various functions and effects described in the fourteenth embodiment and the various functions and effects described in the other embodiments can be achieved.

Q. Variations:
The various configurations described in the above embodiments can be modified as follows, for example. Any of the modifications described below is positioned as an example of an embodiment for carrying out the invention. Any of the modifications described below is positioned as an example of an embodiment for carrying out the invention. In the following description, when it is not necessary to distinguish the discharge units 10A to 10N and 10P of the respective embodiments, the reference numerals are omitted and collectively referred to as “discharge units” unless otherwise specified. Similarly, for the valve portions 25A, 25E to 25K, 25P and the fluid discharge device 100 of each embodiment, unless it is necessary to distinguish between them, the reference numerals are omitted unless otherwise specified. Collectively referred to as “discharge device”.

Q1. Modification 1:
In the first embodiment, when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1, the valve portion 25A takes a state of closing the entire inflow port 15o (FIGS. 2A and 2D), and the third embodiment described above. In the fourth embodiment, the valve portion 25A is in a state of closing a part of the inflow port 15o when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1 (FIGS. 5 and 4). In the second embodiment, the valve portion 25A is positioned between the inlet 15o and the discharge port 16 in the moving direction of the moving body 20 when the moving body 20 is positioned at the first position P1. (FIG. 3). In contrast, when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1, the valve portion 25A closes at least a part of the inflow port 15o and is located between the inflow port 15o and the discharge port 16. You may take That is, in the configuration of the first embodiment, when the moving body 20 is positioned at the first position P1, the valve portion 25A is positioned at a position facing a part of the inflow port 15o, and the moving direction of the moving body 20 is , It may be located at a position close to the discharge port 16 side.

Q2. Modification 2:
In said 5th Embodiment and 11th Embodiment, when the mobile body 20 is located in the 1st position P1, protrusion part 26,26a is the valve part 25A demonstrated in 3rd Embodiment or 4th Embodiment. It may be located at the position described in the first modification, such as the position of the side surface 25s. Similarly, in the sixth to tenth embodiments, when the moving body 20 is located at the first position P1, the side surface 25s of the valve portion may be located at such a position.

Q3. Modification 3:
The configurations of the above embodiments can be combined as appropriate. For example, the valve portion 25E having the protruding portion 26 of the fifth embodiment and the valve portion 25K having the protruding portion 26a of the eleventh embodiment, the inclined surface 25i of the sixth embodiment, the tapered portion 25tp of the seventh embodiment, You may apply at least 1 of the flat side surface 25p of 8th Embodiment, the groove part 27 of 9th Embodiment, and the through-hole 28 of 10th Embodiment. Alternatively, the valve portion 25F having the inclined surface 25i of the sixth embodiment and the valve portion 25G having the tapered portion 25tp of the seventh embodiment, the flat side surface 25p of the eighth embodiment of the eighth embodiment, and the ninth embodiment. At least one of the groove portion 27 and the through hole 28 of the tenth embodiment may be applied. You may apply at least 1 of the groove part 27 of 9th Embodiment, and the through-hole 28 of 10th Embodiment to the valve part 25H which has the flat side surface 25p of 9th Embodiment. You may apply the through-hole 28 of 10th Embodiment to the valve part 25I which has the groove part 27 of 9th Embodiment.

Q4. Modification 4:
In the above embodiments, the moving direction of the moving body 20 is the central axis CX and the vertical direction, and the direction along the central axis NX of the discharge port 16. On the other hand, the moving direction of the moving body 20 is not limited to the direction along the central axis CX or the vertical direction. The moving direction of the moving body may be a direction that intersects the vertical direction or a direction that intersects the central axis CX. Similarly, the moving direction of the moving body 20 may not be a direction along the central axis NX of the discharge port 16 but may be a direction intersecting the central axis NX of the discharge port 16. Further, the discharge direction of the fluid FL of the fluid discharge device may not be a direction along the gravity direction, but may be a direction intersecting the gravity direction.

Q5. Modification 5:
In the discharge process in each of the first to eleventh embodiments, when the fluid FL is pushed out from the discharge port 16, the moving body 20 is moved to the first position P1. On the other hand, in the discharge process of each of the second to eleventh embodiments, as described in the twelfth embodiment, the tip 21 moves before reaching the discharge port 16. The body 20 may be stopped. In the discharge process, the fluid FL may be pushed out from the discharge port 16 when the moving body 20 moves from the first position P1 to the second position P2.

Q6. Modification 6:
In each of the embodiments described above, the drive unit 30 generates an external force that moves the moving body 20 by expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric element. On the other hand, the drive unit 30 may generate an external force that moves the moving body 20 by means other than the expansion / contraction deformation of the piezoelectric element. The drive unit 30 may generate an external force that moves the moving body by, for example, a solenoid, an air cylinder, or giant magnetostriction.

Q7. Modification 7:
The fluid ejection device according to each of the above embodiments is configured as a 3D printer that ejects the fluid FL to form a three-dimensional object. On the other hand, the fluid ejection device may be configured as, for example, an ink jet printer that ejects ink to form an image. In this case, the ink as the fluid FL is ejected using the printing medium or the recording medium as the target object instead of the modeling stage 60. In addition, the fluid ejection device may be configured as an adhesive application device that ejects and applies a liquid adhesive. Moreover, the fluid discharge device of each of the above embodiments discharges the amount of liquid material used for producing a three-dimensional object as the fluid FL. On the other hand, the fluid discharge device of each of the above embodiments may discharge a fluid such as gas or fluid powder as the fluid FL.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, examples, and modifications, and can be realized with various configurations without departing from the spirit thereof. For example, the technical features in the embodiments, examples, and modifications corresponding to the technical features in each embodiment described in the summary section of the invention are to solve some or all of the above-described problems, or In order to achieve part or all of the above effects, replacement or combination can be performed as appropriate. In addition, the technical features are not limited to those described as not essential in the present specification. If the technical features are not described as essential in the specification, they may be deleted as appropriate. Is possible.

10A to 10N, 10P ... discharge section, 11 ... head main body, 11b ... bottom surface, 12 ... storage chamber, 12w ... side wall surface, 14 ... drive chamber, 15 ... supply channel, 15o ... inlet, 15p ... supply channel , 16 ... discharge port, 18 ... enlarged opening, 19 ... sealing member, 20 ... moving body, 21 ... tip, 25A, 25E to 25K, 25P, 25Q ... valve, 25i ... inclined surface, 25p ... flat side, 25 s ... side surface, 25 tp ... tapered portion, 25 tps ... side surface, 26, 26a ... projecting portion, 26as ... end surface, 26s ... side surface, 27 ... groove portion, 28 ... through hole, 30 ... drive portion, 40 ... valve seat portion, 42 ... Valve seat surface, 50 ... supply section, 51 ... piping, 52 ... fluid storage section, 53 ... pressure generation section, 54 ... branch piping, 55 ... circulation section, 56 ... outflow passage, 56o ... outlet, 57 ... piping, 58 ... Flow rate adjusting unit, 60 ... Modeling stage, 6 ... Movement mechanism, 70 ... Energy application unit, 100, 100D, 100N ... Fluid ejection device, AF ... First region, AS ... Second region, CX ... Central axis, FL ... Fluid, GP ... Gap, NX ... Central axis, P1 ... 1st position, P2 ... 2nd position

Claims (11)

A fluid ejection device comprising:
A containment chamber containing fluid;
An inlet provided in the storage chamber for allowing the fluid to flow into the storage chamber from the outside of the storage chamber;
A discharge port provided in the storage chamber for discharging the fluid in the storage chamber;
In the storage chamber, a front end portion that opposes the discharge port, the first end portion being closest to the discharge port, and a second position where the front end portion is separated from the discharge port. A moving body that reciprocates and pushes the fluid out of the discharge port by moving from the second position toward the first position;
With
The inflow port is located in an intersecting direction intersecting a moving direction of the moving body with respect to the moving body,
The movable body has a valve portion that protrudes in the intersecting direction and is displaced according to the movement of the movable body,
The valve portion closes at least a part of the inflow port when the moving body is located at the first position, and is positioned between the inflow port and the discharge port in the moving direction. When the moving body is located at the second position, the moving body is located on the opposite side of the inflow port with respect to the inflow port. Fluid ejection device. The fluid ejection device according to claim 1,
The fluid ejecting apparatus, wherein the valve portion locally protrudes toward the inflow port, and has a protrusion that closes and faces the inflow port when the movable body is located at the first position. The fluid ejection device according to claim 1 or 2,
The valve portion moves the fluid in the first region located closer to the discharge port than the valve portion in the accommodating chamber to the second region located on the opposite side of the first region across the valve portion. And a fluid discharge device having a guiding portion for guiding. The fluid ejection device according to claim 3, wherein
The fluid ejection device, wherein the guide part includes a groove part that connects the first region and the second region. The fluid ejection device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein
The fluid ejection device, wherein the guide portion includes a through hole including the first region and the second region. The fluid ejection device according to any one of claims 3 to 5,
The fluid discharge device, wherein the guide portion includes an inclined surface that faces the first region and is located closer to the second region in the moving direction as a portion closer to the end of the valve portion in the intersecting direction. The fluid ejection device according to any one of claims 3 to 6,
The inner wall surface of the storage chamber is curved so as to surround the moving body when viewed along the moving direction,
The valve portion has a flat side surface which is a planar side wall surface facing the inner wall surface,
The fluid ejection device, wherein the guide portion is formed as a gap between the inner wall surface and the flat side surface. The fluid ejection device according to claim 1,
The valve portion is formed so as to surround the periphery of the moving body when viewed along the moving direction.
The storage chamber surrounds the discharge port when viewed along the moving direction, and in a direction from the first position toward the second position when the moving body moves to the first position. A valve seat portion that abuts on the valve portion and blocks the flow of the fluid from the inflow port to the discharge port,
The fluid ejection device, wherein the distal end portion of the movable body is separated from the ejection port when the movable body is located at the first position. The fluid ejection device according to claim 8,
The inflow port is a fluid ejection device provided at a position that is closed by the valve portion when the valve portion abuts on the valve seat portion. The fluid ejection device according to claim 9, wherein
The storage chamber further has an outlet through which the fluid flows out of the storage chamber at a position away from the discharge port in the intersecting direction,
The fluid discharge device, wherein the outlet is provided at a position that is closed by the valve portion when the valve portion abuts on the valve seat portion. The fluid ejection device according to claim 10,
The inflow port and the outflow port are open toward the valve portion in the valve seat portion, and are closed by the valve portion when the valve portion comes into contact with the valve seat portion. apparatus.

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