JP2023143550A - Liquid discharge head, liquid discharge unit and liquid discharge device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a liquid discharge head that is excellent in toughness and can reduce breakage caused by impact from the outside.SOLUTION: A liquid discharge head comprises a nozzle plate in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged, where the plurality of nozzles are arranged in the nozzle plate while constituting nozzle rows based on a predetermined definition. The nozzle row having N nozzles is arranged in an area close to a center in an arranging direction of the nozzle rows. In the arranging direction, a nozzle row having M nozzles fewer than the N nozzles is arranged at a first end part, and in the arranging direction, a nozzle row having (N-M) nozzles is arranged at a second end part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

The present invention relates to a liquid ejection head, a liquid ejection unit, and a liquid ejection device.

Patent Document 1 discloses a droplet ejection head configured by connecting a plurality of head modules in which a plurality of nozzles for ejecting liquid are arranged.

Patent Document 2 discloses an inkjet head configured by arranging a plurality of actuator units each having a parallelogram external shape.

In the configuration as disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is difficult to provide a large space between the connecting portion of the plurality of head modules and the nozzle area where the nozzle is formed, and there is a problem that the robustness of the head is low.

In the configuration as described in Patent Document 2, it is difficult to provide a large space between the connecting portion of the plurality of actuator units and the nozzle area where the nozzle is formed within the actuator unit, and there is a problem that the robustness of the head is low. there were.

The present invention includes a nozzle plate in which a plurality of nozzles for ejecting liquid are arranged at a predetermined pitch (d) corresponding to a recording resolution in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, and the plurality of nozzles are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. is divided into P sub-nozzle groups (P is an integer of 1 or more) consisting of a plurality of sub-nozzles arranged at intervals of (d×P), and each of the sub-nozzle groups is divided into the (d ×P) and a sub-nozzle row consisting of a plurality of sub-nozzles arranged in a direction oblique to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate and the transverse direction of the nozzle plate perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, and When a set of rows consisting of sub-nozzle rows of P sub-nozzle groups lined up in a row along the direction is defined as a nozzle row, the nozzle plate has an area near the center of the nozzle plate in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. , the nozzle row having N nozzles is arranged, and the nozzle row has N nozzles at a first end of the nozzle plate that is closer to the first end than a region closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. The nozzle row having M number of nozzles is arranged, and the nozzle is located on the second end side opposite to the first end side from the area closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. The nozzle array having (NM) nozzles is arranged at the second end of the plate.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a liquid ejection head that has excellent robustness and can reduce damage caused by external impact.

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an example of a liquid ejection device. FIG. 3 is a bottom view showing an example of a head unit. The schematic exploded view which showed an example of a head. FIG. 3 is an explanatory plan view of a flow path portion of the head. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of the flow path portion of the head. An explanatory diagram of the definition of a nozzle row. An explanatory diagram of the definition of a nozzle row. FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the main parts of a head module as a comparative example. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of essential parts when a plurality of head modules are arranged in a row as a comparative example. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of essential parts of the head module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the main parts when a plurality of head modules of the first embodiment are arranged. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the main parts of a head in a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of essential parts when a plurality of heads of the second embodiment are arranged. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of essential parts of a head in a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of essential parts when a plurality of heads of the third embodiment are arranged. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of a main part of a head in a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a schematic bottom view of a head in a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a schematic bottom view of a head in a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a schematic bottom view of a head showing a modification. FIG. 7 is a bottom view showing a modification of the head unit.

Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, in the description of the drawings, the same elements are given the same reference numerals, and overlapping description will be omitted.

<Overview of liquid ejection device>
First, the outline of a liquid ejection device will be explained using FIG. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an example of a liquid ejection device. The liquid ejection device illustrated here is a printing device that ejects ink onto paper using an inkjet method to form an image on the paper.

The printing apparatus 500 includes a paper feeding section 501 , a conveying section 503 , a printing section 505 , a drying section 507 , and a paper discharging section 509 . The paper feeding unit 501 includes a holding roller 511 that holds a rolled paper 510, and supplies the continuous long paper 510 to the printing unit 505 side. The transport unit 503 performs, for example, tension control and meandering correction on the paper 510 supplied from the paper feed unit 501, adjusts the tension of the paper 510 and the transport position, and transports the paper 510 to the printing unit 505. do.

The printing section 505 includes an inkjet recording section 550 equipped with a head unit 555 and a conveyance guide member 559 facing the inkjet recording section 550. The printing unit 505 forms an image on the paper 510 by ejecting ink from the head unit 555 onto the paper 510 moving on the conveyance guide member 559 .

Note that the number of head units 555 mounted on the inkjet recording section 550 may be increased or decreased as appropriate depending on the type and number of ink colors used in the printing apparatus 500. Further, the liquid used in the head unit 555 is not limited to ink, and may include a processing liquid for modifying the surface of the paper 510, a coating agent for protecting the image formed on the paper 510, and the like.

The drying unit 507 heats the paper 510 on which the image is placed, and dries the paper 510 and the image formed on the paper 510. The paper discharge section 509 includes a winding roller 591 that winds up the paper 510, and winds up the paper 510 sent out from the drying section 507.

Although a description will be given below based on the configuration of the printing device 500 described above, the liquid ejection device according to the present invention is not limited to a printing device. For example, it can be applied to a three-dimensional printing device (three-dimensional printing device) that discharges a modeling liquid into a powder layer formed by layering powder in order to print a three-dimensional object (three-dimensional object). . Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to electronic device production equipment that discharges a resist pattern forming liquid to form a resist pattern for an electronic circuit.

Further, the medium is not limited to paper 510. In addition to paper, it can be applied to various materials such as fibers, fabrics, leather, metals, plastics, glass, wood, and ceramics. The form of the medium is not limited to a long one, and may be a medium cut into a predetermined size in advance.

Further, although the printing apparatus 500 has a so-called line type apparatus configuration in which the paper 510 is moved relative to the inkjet recording unit 550 in a fixed position and an image is formed on the paper 510, the configuration is not limited to the line type. . The inkjet recording unit 550 and the paper 510 may be configured to move relatively. Therefore, for example, a so-called serial type device configuration may be used in which an inkjet recording unit is moved in a direction perpendicular to the paper feeding direction for paper that is intermittently fed to form an image on the paper 510. Alternatively, a so-called flatbed type device configuration may be used in which the inkjet recording unit is moved in the XY direction with respect to the paper held on the paper mounting table to form an image on the paper 510.

In addition, the ejected materials used in devices that eject liquid include solvents such as water and organic solvents, colorants such as dyes and pigments, functional materials such as polymerizable compounds, resins, and surfactants, DNA, amino acids, etc. Examples include solutions, suspensions, and emulsions containing proteins, biocompatible materials such as calcium, and edible materials such as natural pigments. Further, the liquid may contain fine powder such as metal powder. These can be used, for example, as inkjet inks, paints for painting, surface treatment liquids, liquids for forming components of electronic elements and light emitting elements, resist patterns for electronic circuits, material liquids for three-dimensional modeling, and the like.

<Head unit configuration>
Next, the configuration of the head unit will be explained using FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a bottom view showing an example of a head unit, and is a view of one of the eight head units 555 shown in the inkjet recording section 550 of FIG. 1, viewed from the conveyance guide member 559 side. .

The head unit 555 includes a plurality of head modules 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d arranged in a direction perpendicular to the medium feeding direction. Hereinafter, these head modules 1a to 1d will be collectively referred to as "head module 1."

Further, the head modules 1a to 1d include heads 101a to 101d, head holding members 102a to 102d, and mount members 103a to 103d. Hereinafter, the heads 101a to 101d will be collectively referred to as "head 101," the head holding members 102a to 102d will be collectively referred to as "head holding member 102," and the mount members 103a to 103d will be collectively referred to as "mount member 103." write down

The head 101 includes a nozzle plate 10 having a generally parallelogram-shaped outer shape on which a plurality of nozzles are formed, and the head 101 is held by a head holding member 102 . The head holding member 102 includes a mount member 103 in a part thereof, and the head unit 555 is fixed to the inkjet recording section 550 by attaching the mount member 103 to a support member 550a provided in the inkjet recording section 550. Here, the head unit 555 is an example of a "liquid ejection unit," and the head 101 is an example of a "liquid ejection head."

<Head configuration>
Next, the structure of the head will be explained using FIGS. 3 to 5. FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded view showing an example of a head, and is a diagram showing only the head 101 constituting the head module 1 of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is an explanatory plan view of the flow path portion of the head, and FIG. 5 is an explanatory enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of the flow path portion of the head. Although the nozzle plate 10 has an approximately parallelogram outer shape as shown in FIG. 2, the explanation will be given here using a diagram simplified to a rectangle.

The head 101 includes a substrate (flexible wiring board) on which a nozzle plate 10, a channel plate (individual channel member) 20, a diaphragm member 30, a common channel member 50, a damper member 60, a frame member 80, and a drive circuit 104 are mounted. 105 and the like.

The nozzle plate 10 includes a plurality of nozzles 11 that eject liquid (ink in this embodiment), and the plurality of nozzles 11 are arranged two-dimensionally.

The individual flow path member 20 includes a plurality of pressure chambers (individual liquid chambers) 21 each communicating with the plurality of nozzles 11 , a plurality of individual supply flow paths 22 communicating with the plurality of pressure chambers 21 , and a plurality of pressure chambers 21 . A plurality of individual recovery channels 23 are formed, each of which communicates with the other. Note that one pressure chamber 21 and the individual supply channel 22 and individual recovery channel 23 communicating therewith are collectively referred to as an individual channel 25.

The diaphragm member 30 forms a diaphragm 31 that is a deformable wall surface of the pressure chamber 21, and the diaphragm 31 is integrally provided with a piezoelectric element 40. Further, the diaphragm member 30 is formed with a supply side opening 32 communicating with the individual supply channel 22 and a recovery side opening 33 communicating with the individual recovery channel 23.

The piezoelectric element 40 is a pressure generating means that deforms the diaphragm 31 and pressurizes the liquid in the pressure chamber 21.

Note that the individual flow path member 20 and the diaphragm member 30 are not limited to being separate members. For example, it is also possible to integrally form the individual flow path member 20 and the diaphragm member 30 with the same member using an SOI (Silicon on Insulator) substrate. In other words, an SOI substrate in which a silicon oxide film, a silicon layer, and a silicon oxide film are formed in this order on a silicon substrate is used, and the silicon substrate is used as the individual channel member 20, and the silicon oxide film, the silicon layer, and the silicon oxide film are formed on the silicon substrate. The diaphragm 31 can be formed using the above. In this configuration, the layered structure of the silicon oxide film, the silicon layer, and the silicon oxide film of the SOI substrate becomes the diaphragm member 30. In this way, the diaphragm member 30 includes one made of a material formed into a film on the surface of the individual channel member 20.

The common flow path member 50 connects a plurality of common supply flow path tributaries 52 communicating with two or more individual supply flow paths 22 and a plurality of common recovery flow path tributaries 53 communicating with two or more individual recovery flow paths 23 for medium feeding. They are formed adjacent to each other alternately in the direction orthogonal to the direction. The common channel member 50 includes a through hole that serves as a supply port 54 that communicates with the supply side opening 32 of the individual supply channel 22 and the common supply channel tributary 52, and a through hole that connects the recovery side opening 33 of the individual recovery channel 23 with the common recovery channel. A through hole is formed to serve as a recovery port 55 through which the tributary stream 53 passes. Further, the common flow path member 50 includes one or more common supply flow path main streams 56 communicating with the plurality of common supply flow path tributaries 52 and one or more common recovery flow path main streams communicating with the plurality of common recovery flow path tributaries 53. 57 is formed.

The damper member 60 includes a supply side damper 62 that faces (opposes) the supply port 54 of the common supply channel tributary 52 and a recovery side damper 63 that faces (opposes) the recovery port 55 of the common recovery channel tributary 53. ing. Here, the common supply flow path tributary 52 and the common recovery flow path tributary 53 connect grooves arranged alternately in the common flow path member 50, which is the same member, to the supply side damper 62 or the recovery side damper 63 of the damper member 60. It is constructed by sealing with. Note that as the damper material of the damper member 60, it is preferable to use a metal thin film or an inorganic thin film that is resistant to organic solvents. The thickness of the supply side damper 62 and recovery side damper 63 portions of the damper member 60 is preferably 10 μm or less.

The inner wall surfaces of the common supply channel tributary 52 and the common recovery channel tributary 53 and the inner wall surfaces of the common supply channel main stream 56 and the common recovery channel main stream 57 are provided with walls that protect the inner wall surfaces from the liquid flowing in the channels. A protective film (also called a wetted film) is formed for this purpose. For example, the inner wall surfaces of the common supply channel tributary 52 and the common recovery channel tributary 53, and the inner wall surfaces of the common supply channel main stream 56 and the common recovery channel main stream 57 are formed by heat-treating the Si substrate, so that the surface has silicon oxide. A film is formed. A tantalum silicon oxide film is formed on the silicon oxide film to protect the surface of the Si substrate from ink.

Frame member 80 includes a supply port 81 and a discharge port 82 at its upper portion. The supply port 81 supplies liquid to the main stream 56 of the common supply channel, and the discharge port 82 discharges the liquid discharged from the main stream 57 of the common recovery channel.

Next, in explaining the arrangement of the nozzles 11 provided on the nozzle plate 10, the definition of a "nozzle row" in this embodiment will be explained using FIGS. 6 and 7. In FIGS. 6 and 7, the nozzle 11 is shown as having a grid shape, but the nozzle 11 may have a circular or other shape. Further, the size and diameter of the nozzle 11 may be smaller than those shown.

As shown in FIG. 6, the plurality of nozzles 11 provided on the nozzle plate 10 are arranged in a sub-nozzle row by a plurality of nozzles 11 (four nozzles in the example shown) arranged at intervals of d×P in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. 11sb1 and 11sb2 are configured. In addition, in the above-mentioned interval, d indicates the recording resolution, P indicates the number of sub-nozzle groups, which will be described later, and P is an integer of 1 or more.

Further, each sub-nozzle row includes a plurality of sub-nozzle rows 11sb1 to constitute a sub-nozzle group SBN1, and a plurality of sub-nozzle rows 11sb2 to constitute a sub-nozzle group SBN2. That is, the figure exemplifies a configuration in which two sub-nozzle groups SBN1 and SBN2 are provided on the nozzle plate 10, that is, P=2.

The sub-nozzle groups SBN1, SBN2 include sub-nozzle rows 11sb1, 11sb2, which are composed of a plurality of sub-nozzles arranged at intervals of d×P in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate and in a direction inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate and the lateral direction of the nozzle plate. have Note that the term "sub nozzle" refers to a plurality of nozzles in a sub nozzle group among all the nozzles 11 provided on the nozzle plate 10. That is, the plurality of nozzles 11 belonging to the sub-nozzle group SBN1 are sub-nozzles that constitute the sub-nozzle group SBN1. Further, the plurality of nozzles 11 belonging to the sub-nozzle group SBN2 are sub-nozzles that constitute the sub-nozzle group SBN2. Here, a set of rows consisting of sub-nozzle rows 11sb1 and 11sb2 of P sub-nozzle groups SBN1 and SBN2, which are lined up in a row along the inclined direction, is referred to as a "nozzle row" (nozzle row 11N). It is defined as

Note that the number of nozzles 11 forming the sub-nozzle rows 11sb1 and 11sb2 is not limited to four. The number of nozzles 11 forming the sub-nozzle rows 11sb1 and 11sb2 may be more than four or less than four. Furthermore, the number of sub-nozzle groups SBN1 and SBN2 is not limited to two. The number of sub-nozzle groups SBN1 and SBN2 may be more than two, or may be one.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the definition of the nozzle array in more detail. As described above, the plurality of nozzles 11 are divided into P sub-nozzle groups SBN1 and SBN2 (P is an integer of 1 or more) in the nozzle plate lateral direction. Here, the plurality of nozzles 11 included in each sub-nozzle row 11sb1, 11sb2 (see FIG. 6) of the sub-nozzle groups SBN1, SBN2 are arranged at intervals of d×P in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate.

Further, the arrangement of the plurality of nozzles 11 lined up in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate in the lateral direction of the nozzle plate is such that a predetermined distance in the first direction (direction of arrow A in FIG. 7) of the lateral direction of the nozzle plate corresponds to a predetermined number of nozzles. It shifts sequentially by L1. Then, the nozzles in the next sub-nozzle row are shifted in a second direction (direction of arrow B in FIG. 7) opposite to the first direction. The arrangement of the nozzles 11 has a rule that repeats the above.

The nozzle plate 10 has a longitudinal ridge line (long side of the ridge line) extending in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate and a short ridge line (short side of the ridge line) extending in the lateral direction of the nozzle plate. Here, the origin is the first corner where the longitudinal ridgeline and the transverse ridgeline intersect at an angle θ1 (θ1 is an acute angle), and the coordinates are set so that the quadrant where the transverse ridgeline extends from the first corner is the second quadrant. A first axis extending in the longitudinal direction and a second axis extending in the transverse direction are defined as two orthogonal axes for forming a plane.

Furthermore, among the sub-nozzle groups, the sub-nozzle group closest to the first corner in the lateral direction is defined as the first sub-nozzle group (sub-nozzle group SBN1 in this example). Then, one nozzle out of the plurality of nozzles 11 included in the sub-nozzle group SBN1 is equally spaced by d×P on the negative side of the first axis when viewed from the one nozzle, and a predetermined distance L1 on the positive side of the second axis. A row consisting of a plurality of nozzles including one or more nozzles arranged at equal intervals is defined as a "first sub-nozzle row." Further, the sub-nozzle group arranged next to the first sub-nozzle group in the transverse direction is defined as the second sub-nozzle group (in this example, sub-nozzle group SBN2), and the sub-nozzles included in the second sub-nozzle group (in this example, sub-nozzle group SBN2) The row is defined as a "second sub-nozzle row." Note that when the number P of sub-nozzle groups is 3 or more, a third sub-nozzle row and a fourth sub-nozzle row are defined in the same way.

In addition, the number obtained by dividing the interval between the nozzles arranged on the most negative side of the second axis included in each of the plurality of first sub-nozzle rows in a region near the center of the nozzle plate 10 by a predetermined pitch (d) is calculated. Define N.

In addition, one straight line passing through the plurality of nozzles included in the first sub-nozzle row is set at the nozzle included in the first sub-nozzle row located furthest on the negative side of the second axis (in this example, nozzle 11-1), The distance by which the base point is shifted so that it coincides with the nozzle (in this example, nozzle 11-2) included in the sub-nozzle row next to the first sub-nozzle row and located furthest on the negative side of the second axis is defined as L2.

Then, a group of straight lines (straight lines indicated by broken lines in FIG. 7) including a straight line passing through a plurality of nozzles included in the first sub-nozzle row and a plurality of straight lines equally spaced by a distance L2 is defined as a "nozzle row straight line". The line passing through the middle of the straight lines included in the nozzle row straight line group (the straight line shown by the dashed-dotted line in FIG. 7) is defined as the "intermediate line".

At this time, the "nozzle row" refers to the nozzles that are on one straight line included in the nozzle row straight line group among the plurality of nozzles 11 included in the entire P sub-nozzle groups, and the nozzle plate longitudinal direction as seen from the one straight line. The nozzle is located on the intermediate line adjacent to the positive side of the first axis in the direction or closer to the one straight line than the intermediate line, and the nozzle is positioned closer to the intermediate line adjacent to the negative side of the first axis when viewed from the one straight line. It is defined as a row of nozzles located along one straight line.

<Comparative example>
Next, the configuration of a comparative example will be described using FIGS. 8 and 9. FIG. 8 is a bottom view of a main part of a head module as a comparative example, and FIG. 9 is a bottom view of a main part when a plurality of head modules as a comparative example are arranged.

The head module 1R shown as a comparative example has a ridge line inclined at an angle θr with respect to the medium feeding direction, and the head 101r and nozzle plate 10r are also formed in a shape along this ridge line. The head 101r has a nozzle plate 10r having a parallelogram external shape, and a plurality of nozzles 11r are regularly arranged in a two-dimensional manner on the nozzle plate 10r. The arrangement of the nozzles 11r is an arrangement in which N nozzles 11r form one nozzle row 11N, and a plurality of nozzle rows 11N are provided in a direction parallel to the above-mentioned ridge line and perpendicular to the medium feeding direction. It has become.

The head module 1r having the above configuration can have a plurality of head modules 1ra and 1rb arranged in a line in a direction orthogonal to the medium feeding direction, as shown in FIG. However, in the comparative example, the nozzle row 11N is uniformly composed of N nozzles 11r. Therefore, while the nozzles 11r included in the plurality of head modules 1ra and 1rb are connected so as to be lined up at a predetermined pitch d (recording resolution), the interval between the nozzle rows 11N in the left-right direction (direction perpendicular to the medium feeding direction) is In order to arrange the head modules 1r so that they are equal, it is necessary to arrange the plurality of head modules 1ra and 1rb close to each other in the left-right direction. Therefore, it is difficult to maintain a sufficient distance between both head modules.

That is, it is necessary to line up the nozzle row located at the left end of head module 1rb next to the nozzle row located at the right end of head module 1ra, and it is not possible to secure a sufficient interval between both nozzle rows. Therefore, there is a problem that the distance from the nozzle row at the end to the ridgeline of the head 101r is short, and the nozzles and the pressure chambers and flow paths connected thereto are easily damaged by external shocks.

The configuration of a head module according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

<First embodiment>
The configuration of the first embodiment will be described using FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the main parts of the head module in the first embodiment, and FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the main parts when a plurality of head modules of the first embodiment are arranged.

The head module 1 shown as the first embodiment has a ridge line that is inclined at an angle θa with respect to the lateral direction of the nozzle plate. Further, the head 101 provided in the head module 1 and the nozzle plate 10 provided in the head 101 are also formed in a shape along this ridgeline. The head 101 has a nozzle plate 10 having a generally parallelogram-shaped outer shape, and a plurality of nozzles 11 are regularly arranged in a two-dimensional manner on the nozzle plate 10.

The arrangement of the nozzles 11 is such that N nozzles 11 form one nozzle row 11N, and this nozzle row 11N is inclined at an angle θb (≠θa) with respect to the short direction of the nozzle plate, and at the same time as the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. The array is arranged in multiple rows in the direction. That is, the direction in which the nozzles 11 forming the nozzle row 11N are arranged is different from the direction of the ridgeline of the nozzle plate 10.

As a result, in the arrangement of the nozzles 11 on the nozzle plate 10, a nozzle row 11N having N nozzles 11 in one row is arranged near the center in the direction in which a plurality of nozzle rows are lined up (the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate). On the other hand, a nozzle row 11M having M (<N) nozzles 11 in one row is arranged at one end of the nozzle plate 10, and a nozzle row 11M having NM nozzles 11 in one row is arranged at the other end. A nozzle row 11L having 11 nozzles is arranged.

In this embodiment, the nozzle row 11N is divided into a first sub-nozzle group SBN1 and a second sub-nozzle group SBN2 provided at intervals in the lateral direction of the nozzle plate with respect to the first sub-nozzle group SBN1. It will be done. By providing a plurality of sub-nozzle groups, the recording of the head 101 can be performed while ensuring the physical distance between the nozzles (the distance between the nozzles 11 on the surface of the nozzle plate 10) compared to the case where there is only one sub-nozzle group. Resolution can be increased.

Note that the head may be configured such that the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 and the second sub-nozzle group SBN2 eject liquids of different colors. In addition, as long as it does not substantially affect the image recorded on the medium, the distance between the nozzles 11 arranged in the right end and/or left end region of the nozzle plate 10 in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate 10 is set to the center. The interval may be different from the interval between the nozzles 11 arranged in the area.

Furthermore, the number of nozzles 11 included in the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 gradually decreases from the central region of the nozzle plate 10 toward one end (the left end in FIG. 10). The nozzles 11 are arranged so that after the number of nozzles 11 included in the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 becomes zero, the number of nozzles 11 included in the second sub-nozzle group SBN2 decreases sequentially.

At the other end of the nozzle plate 10 (the right end in FIG. 10), the number of nozzles 11 included in the second sub-nozzle group SBN2 gradually decreases from the central region of the nozzle plate 10 toward the other end. To go. The nozzles 11 are arranged such that after the number of nozzles 11 included in the second sub-nozzle group SBN2 becomes zero, the number of nozzles 11 included in the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 decreases sequentially. Here, one end of the nozzle plate 10 (the left end in FIG. 10) is an example of the "first end", and the other end of the nozzle plate 10 (the right end in FIG. 10) is the "first end". This is an example of the second end portion.

In the head module 1 having the above configuration, a plurality of head modules 1a and 1b can be arranged in a line in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, as shown in FIG. At this time, a nozzle row 11M made up of M nozzles 11 of the head module 1b and a nozzle row 11L made up of NM nozzles 11 of the head module 1a are spaced apart in the vertical direction (in the short direction of the nozzle plate). line up. As a result, a nozzle row consisting of N nozzles 11 is formed, which is equivalent to the nozzle row 11N. When arranging the nozzle row 11M of the head module 1b and the nozzle row 11L of the head module 1a in the vertical direction (the short direction of the nozzle plate), a predetermined gap is created in the vertical direction between the nozzles at the ends of both head modules. Head modules can be connected to each other while leaving space between the head modules.

As a result, the nozzle 11 is not disposed to the very edge of the head module 1, and the entire head module does not have to be significantly offset in the vertical direction with respect to other head modules. The head modules can be connected to each other so that the nozzles 11 are lined up at a predetermined pitch d (recording resolution). This makes it possible to arrange the head modules 1 in one row in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate and manufacture a line-shaped head with any length.

In addition, since the distance between the head modules in the vertical direction can be secured and the distance from the nozzle 11 at the end to the ridgeline of the head 101 can be increased, the head 101 itself can be made stronger and its robustness can be increased. . As a result, even when the side surface of the nozzle plate 10 of the head 101 receives an external impact, the impact is less likely to be transmitted from the ridgeline of the side surface to the nozzle, pressure chamber, flow path, etc., and damage to the head 101 can be prevented. .

Further, the present invention can also be understood assuming the missing regions A and B shown in FIG. That is, it is assumed that N nozzles are arranged in each row at both ends of the nozzle plate 10 according to the same rule as in the area closer to the center. Then, a region outside the short side of the ridgeline of the nozzle plate 10 at the first end (the left end in FIG. 10) of the nozzle plate 10 is defined as a first defective region A. Further, a region outside the short side of the ridgeline of the nozzle plate 10 at the second end (the right end in FIG. 10) of the nozzle plate 10 is defined as a second defective region B.

When defined as above, in this embodiment, among the N nozzles assumed at the first end, at least some of the NM nozzles are located in the first defect area A. Become. Further, among the N nozzles assumed at the second end, at least some of the M nozzles are located in the second defective region B.

By connecting head modules 1 having such nozzle arrays as shown in FIG. 9, the nozzle rows can be regularly arranged without increasing the head size.

As described above, this embodiment includes a nozzle plate 10 in which a plurality of nozzles 11 for ejecting liquid are arranged at a predetermined pitch (d) corresponding to the recording resolution in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. is divided into P sub-nozzle groups SBN1 and SBN2 (P is an integer of 1 or more) each consisting of a plurality of sub-nozzles arranged at intervals of (d×P) in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, and each of the sub-nozzle groups SBN1 and SBN2 is from a plurality of sub-nozzles arranged at intervals of (d×P) in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate and in a direction inclined at an angle θb with respect to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate and the lateral direction of the nozzle plate orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. When a set of rows consisting of sub nozzle rows 11sb1 and 11sb2 of P sub nozzle groups SBN1 and SBN2 arranged in a row along the above-mentioned inclined direction is defined as a nozzle row 11N, the nozzle In the plate 10, a nozzle row 11N having N nozzles is arranged in a region closer to the center of the nozzle plate 10 in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, and a nozzle row 11N having N nozzles is arranged on the first end side than the region closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. A nozzle row 11M having M nozzles, which is less than N, is arranged at the first end (the left end in FIG. 10) of the nozzle plate 10, which is located closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. A nozzle row having (NM) nozzles at the second end of the nozzle plate 10 (the right end in FIG. 10), which is the second end opposite to the first end. 11L is placed.

This makes it possible to increase the distance from the nozzle 11 at the end to the ridgeline of the head 101, thereby increasing the robustness of the head 101. As a result, even when the head 101 receives an external impact, the impact is less likely to be transmitted to the nozzle, pressure chamber, flow path, etc., and damage to the head 101 can be prevented.

Further, as described above, the direction in which the nozzle rows 11N, 11M, and 11L are lined up (inclined at an angle θb with respect to the short direction of the nozzle plate) is the direction of the ridgeline of the short side of the nozzle plate (angle θa with respect to the short direction of the nozzle plate). ) is different.

As a result, when a plurality of nozzle plates 10 are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, the short side of the ridgeline of the nozzle plate 10 is arranged to cross between M nozzles and NM nozzles. In this case, the M nozzles on one nozzle plate 10 and the NM nozzles on the other nozzle plate can be arranged regularly without having to offset the two nozzle plates 10 greatly from each other in the nozzle plate lateral direction. You can line them up. Moreover, by arranging the two nozzle plates 10 side by side so that the short sides of their ridgelines face each other, the size of the entire head in the short direction can be reduced. In addition, the distance from the end nozzle of M nozzles to the short side of the ridge line, and the distance from the end nozzle of N nozzles to the short side of the ridge line must be secured in the short direction of the nozzle plate. This makes it possible to further prevent the nozzle at the end from chipping due to external shocks, etc.

Further, as described above, the plurality of nozzle rows 11N, 11M, and 11L are arranged within a region whose outer shape is approximately a parallelogram.

Thereby, a plurality of nozzle plates 10 can be arranged regularly to form a long head, and the overall size of the head can be reduced. Further, the overall size of the head unit configured by arranging a plurality of heads can be reduced.

Further, as described above, the value of P is an integer of 2 or more, and the plurality of sub-nozzle groups include the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 and the second sub-nozzle group SBN2, and the first end ( In FIG. 10, the number of nozzles 11 included in the sub-nozzle row 11sb1 of the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 gradually decreases toward the left end), and the number of nozzles 11 included in the sub-nozzle row 11sb1 of the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 gradually decreases. After the number of nozzles 11 becomes zero, the nozzles 11 are arranged so that the number of nozzles 11 included in the sub-nozzle row 11sb2 of the second sub-nozzle group SBN2 gradually decreases.

The value of P is an integer of 2 or more, and the plurality of sub-nozzle groups include a first sub-nozzle group SBN1 and a second sub-nozzle group SBN2. The number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle row 11sb2 of the second sub-nozzle group SBN2 gradually decreases as the number of nozzles 11 included in the sub-nozzle row 11sb2 of the second sub-nozzle group SBN2 reaches zero. , the nozzles 11 are arranged such that the number of nozzles 11 included in the sub-nozzle row 11sb1 of the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 decreases sequentially.

As a result, the recording resolution of the head can be increased compared to the case where there is only one sub-nozzle group, and the number of nozzles 11 is equal to that of the area near the center, without arranging the nozzles 11 to the very edge of the head (nozzle plate). A nozzle row consisting of nozzles can be formed.

Further, assuming that N nozzles are arranged per row at the first end and the second end according to the same rule as in the area closer to the center, the short ridge line of the nozzle plate 10 at the first end When the area outside the side is defined as the first defect area A, and the area outside the short side of the ridge line of the nozzle plate 10 at the second end is defined as the second defect area B, the first defect area Among the N nozzles assumed at the end of At least some of the nozzles are in the second defect area B.

Thereby, it is possible to form a nozzle row consisting of the same number of nozzles as the area closer to the center without arranging the nozzles to the very edge of the head (nozzle plate).

<Second embodiment>
Next, the configuration of the second embodiment will be described using FIGS. 12 and 13. In the following embodiments, illustration of the head module 1 will be omitted, and only the head 101 (nozzle plate 10) will be simplified and explained. FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the main parts of the head in the second embodiment, and FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the main parts when a plurality of heads of the second embodiment are arranged side by side.

In the head 101 shown in the first embodiment, the nozzle row 11N is divided into the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 and the second sub-nozzle group SBN2, but the nozzle row 11N does not need to be divided as shown in FIG. 12. In this case, the nozzles 11 forming the nozzle rows 11N, 11M, and 11L are arranged at equal intervals within each nozzle row 11N, 11M, and 11L.

In the case of the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to arrange a plurality of heads 101a and 101b in a line in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate as shown in FIG. The same effect can be achieved.

<Third embodiment>
Next, the configuration of the third embodiment will be described using FIGS. 14 and 15. FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the main parts of the head in the third embodiment, and FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the main parts when a plurality of heads of the third embodiment are arranged side by side.

The head 101 shown as the third embodiment has a larger inclination (angle θc) with respect to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate than in the first and second embodiments. The head 101 has a nozzle plate 10 having a generally parallelogram-shaped outer shape, and a plurality of nozzles 11 are regularly arranged in a two-dimensional manner on the nozzle plate 10. The nozzles 11 are arranged in such a manner that N nozzles 11 form one nozzle row 11N, and a plurality of nozzle rows 11N are provided in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate.

In the arrangement direction of the plurality of nozzle rows (longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate), a nozzle row 11N having N nozzles 11 is arranged in a region near the center, and a nozzle row 11N having N/2 nozzles 11 is arranged at both ends. Nozzle rows 11Na and 11Nb are arranged. The nozzle row 11N is divided into a first sub-nozzle group SBN1 and a second sub-nozzle group SBN2 in a direction intersecting the direction in which the nozzle rows are lined up (the nozzle plate lateral direction). Further, among the nozzle rows 11Na and 11Nb having N/2 nozzles 11, the nozzle row 11Na is composed only of the first sub-nozzle group SBN1, and the nozzle row 11Nb is composed only of the second sub-nozzle group SBN2.

In the third embodiment, as in the first and second embodiments, it is possible to arrange a plurality of heads 101a and 101b in a line in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate as shown in FIG. The same effects as those of the second embodiment can be achieved.

Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the inclination of the head 101 (nozzle plate 10) is increased so that the nozzle 11 can be arranged further inside from the end of the head module 1. That is, it becomes possible to arrange the nozzle 11 away from the end of the head module 1. Therefore, when an external impact is applied to the end of the head module 1, the impact can be made less likely to be transmitted to the nozzle, pressure chamber, flow path, etc.

<Fourth embodiment>
Next, the configuration of the fourth embodiment will be described using FIG. 16. FIG. 16 is a bottom view of essential parts of the head in the fourth embodiment.

In the head 101 shown in the third embodiment, the nozzle row 11N is divided into the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 and the second sub-nozzle group SBN2, but the nozzle row 11N does not need to be divided as shown in FIG. 16. That is, the number of sub-nozzle groups may be set to P=1. In this case, the nozzles 11 are arranged at equal intervals in each of the nozzle rows 11N, 11M, and 11L.

Regarding the arrangement of the nozzles 11, in the direction in which a plurality of nozzle rows are lined up (the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate), a nozzle row 11N having N nozzles 11 in one row is arranged near the center. In addition, the number of nozzles decreases from the center region toward both ends, such as a nozzle row 11M having M (<N) nozzles 11 and a nozzle row 11L having NM nozzles 11. The nozzle 11 is arranged at.

In the case of the fourth embodiment, as in the third embodiment, it is possible to arrange a plurality of heads 101 in a line in a direction orthogonal to the medium feeding direction, and the same effects as in the third embodiment can be achieved. I can do it.

<Fifth embodiment>
Next, the configuration of the fifth embodiment will be described using FIG. 17. FIG. 17 is a schematic bottom view of the head in the fifth embodiment.

For example, in the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17(b), the first sub nozzle row 11sb1 forming the first sub nozzle group SBN1 and the second sub nozzle row 11sb2 forming the second sub nozzle group SBN2 are approximately on a straight nozzle line straight line. The arrangement was such that they lined up. On the other hand, in the fifth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17(a), the straight line Lsb1 passing through the first sub-nozzle row 11sb1 and the straight line Lsb2 passing through the second sub-nozzle row 11sb2 are arranged so as not to overlap.

That is, in the fifth embodiment, the second sub-nozzle row 11sb2 is not arranged on the straight line Lsb1 passing through the first sub-nozzle row 11sb1, and the straight line Lsb1 passing through the first sub-nozzle row 11sb1 located at the leftmost end in FIG. The second sub-nozzle row 11sb2 is arranged outside of the second sub-nozzle row 11sb2. Conversely, at the right end, the first sub-nozzle row 11sb1 is arranged outside the second sub-nozzle row 11sb2.

The nozzle row 11N is hereinafter defined as a row consisting of the nozzles (i), (ii), and (iii).

(i) Among the plurality of nozzles 11 included in the entire first sub-nozzle group SBN1 and second sub-nozzle group SBN2, one straight line included in the nozzle line straight line group (i.e., the first sub-nozzle line 11sb1 in FIG. 17(a) Each nozzle of the first sub-nozzle row 11sb1 is on the straight line passing through each nozzle of

(ii) Nozzles located on the intermediate line LB adjacent to the first axis positive side in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate when viewed from the one straight line, or located closer to the one straight line than the intermediate line LB (i.e., as shown in FIG. 17(a) (each nozzle in the second sub-nozzle row 11sb2).

(iii) A nozzle located closer to the one straight line than the intermediate line LA adjacent to the negative side of the first axis when viewed from the one straight line (there is no corresponding nozzle in FIG. 17(a)).

Note that even in the case where the two second sub-nozzle rows 11sb2 coincide with each other on the two intermediate lines LA and LB as shown in FIG. is defined as a row consisting of each nozzle.

(i) Among the plurality of nozzles 11 included in the whole of the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 and the second sub-nozzle group SBN2, one straight line included in the nozzle row straight line group (that is, each nozzle of the first sub-nozzle row 11sb1 in FIG. Each nozzle of the first sub-nozzle row 11sb1 is on the straight line passing through the sub-nozzle row 11sb1.

(ii) Nozzles located on the intermediate line LB adjacent to the positive side of the first axis in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate when viewed from the one straight line, or located closer to the one straight line than the intermediate line LB (that is, the second each nozzle in the sub-nozzle row 11sb2).

(iii) A nozzle located closer to the one straight line than the intermediate line LA adjacent to the negative side of the first axis when viewed from the one straight line (no corresponding nozzle is shown in FIG. 18).

The nozzle row defined in this way is arranged as a nozzle row having N nozzles in a region closer to the center of the nozzle plate in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate 10, and in a region closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. is arranged as a nozzle row having fewer than N (N/2) nozzles at the first end of the nozzle plate, which is the first end side, and is arranged in a region closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. A nozzle row having (N/2) nozzles is arranged at the second end of the nozzle plate, which is the second end opposite to the first end.

As a result, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to obtain a liquid ejection head that has excellent robustness and can reduce damage caused by external impact. Furthermore, with the above configuration, in addition to the effects of the third embodiment, it becomes possible to arbitrarily set the distance between the first sub-nozzle group SBN1 and the second sub-nozzle group SBN2, increasing the degree of freedom in design. I can do it.

Note that the fifth embodiment is not limited to the nozzle arrays shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, and may be modified as appropriate within the definition of the nozzle arrays explained in FIGS. 6 and 7.

Furthermore, in the embodiments so far, a configuration has been described in which a plurality of heads 101 each having one nozzle plate 10 are arranged side by side to form the head unit 555. However, the number of nozzle plates 10 provided in one head 101 does not necessarily have to be one. For example, one head 101 may be provided with a plurality of nozzle plates 10, and a plurality of nozzle plates 10 may be arranged in line within one head 101 in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate.

Also in the case of the above configuration, when the head 101 receives an external impact, the impact is less likely to be transmitted to the nozzle, pressure chamber, flow path, etc., and damage to the head 101 can be prevented.

<Modified example>
Next, a modification of this embodiment will be described using FIG. 19. FIG. 19 is a schematic bottom view of a head showing a modification.

In each of the above-described embodiments, when arranging a plurality of heads 101, the ridge lines extending in the lateral direction of the nozzle plate are placed next to each other, but as shown in FIG. 101 may be arranged side by side.

According to this modification, a sufficient distance is obtained between the nozzle row 11Na at the right end of the head 101a and the nozzle row 11Nb at the left end of the head 101b, and the robustness against impact to the end of the head 101 is improved. It can be increased further.

Next, a modification of this embodiment will be described using FIG. 20. FIG. 20 is a bottom view showing a modification of the head unit.

The head unit 555 shown in FIG. 2 is configured by arranging a plurality of head modules 1a to 1d in a direction perpendicular to the medium feeding direction (longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate). On the other hand, a head unit 555' shown in FIG. 20 is configured as an integral member without providing the head holding member 102 and the mounting member 103 for each nozzle plate 10 (head 101). Thereby, for example, it is possible to make at least part of the flow path and wiring common to a plurality of nozzle plates 10.

<Application example>
<<Application example 1>>
The liquid ejection head of the present invention can also eject liquid used to form a three-dimensional object. Examples of liquids used to form three-dimensional objects include hydrogel-forming materials for forming three-dimensional three-dimensional structures used for therapeutic training. The hydrogel-forming material contains water and a polymerizable monomer, preferably contains a mineral and an organic solvent, and further contains a polymerization initiator and other components as necessary. The polymerizable monomer is a compound having one or more unsaturated carbon-carbon bonds, and preferably a polymerizable monomer that is polymerized by active energy rays such as ultraviolet rays or electron beams.

Examples of the polymerizable monomer include monofunctional monomers and polyfunctional monomers. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Examples of the polyfunctional monomer include bifunctional monomers, trifunctional monomers, and tetrafunctional or higher functional monomers.

The mineral is not particularly limited and can be selected as appropriate depending on the purpose, but since the hydrogel has water as its main component, clay minerals are preferable, and furthermore, clay minerals are preferable because they are uniformly dispersed in water at the level of primary crystals. Possible layered clay minerals are preferred, and water-swellable layered clay minerals are more preferred.

Examples of the organic solvent include water-soluble organic solvents. The water-soluble nature of a water-soluble organic solvent means that the organic solvent can be dissolved in water in an amount of 30% by mass or more. The water-soluble organic solvent is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, for example, methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, n-propyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, n-butyl alcohol, sec-butyl alcohol, tert - Alkyl alcohols having 1 to 4 carbon atoms such as butyl alcohol; amides such as dimethylformamide and dimethylacetamide; ketones or ketone alcohols such as acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, and diacetone alcohol; ethers such as tetrahydrofuran and dioxane; ethylene Glycol, propylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol, 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, thioglycol , polyhydric alcohols such as hexylene glycol and glycerin; polyalkylene glycols such as polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol; ethylene glycol monomethyl (or ethyl) ether, diethylene glycol methyl (or ethyl) ether, triethylene glycol monomethyl (or ethyl) ether Lower alcohol ethers of polyhydric alcohols such as; alkanolamines such as monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, and triethanolamine; N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, 2-pyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone, etc. can be mentioned.

These may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, polyhydric alcohol, glycerin, and propylene glycol are preferred, and glycerin and propylene glycol are more preferred, from the viewpoint of moisturizing properties.

The polymerization initiator is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and includes, for example, a photopolymerization initiator, a thermal polymerization initiator, and the like. As the photopolymerization initiator, any substance that generates radicals upon irradiation with light (particularly ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 220 nm to 400 nm) can be used. Note that when three-dimensional modeling is performed using a hydrogel-forming material, a UV (Ultra Violet) irradiation mechanism is provided, and the discharged hydrogel-forming material is cured and formed by UV irradiation.

(Specific example of hydrogel forming material)
While stirring 120.0 parts by mass of ion-exchanged water that had been degassed under reduced pressure for 30 minutes, synthetic hectorite (laponite) having a composition of [Mg5.34Li0.66Si8O20(OH)4]Na-0.66 was added as a layered clay mineral. 12.0 parts by mass of XLG (manufactured by RockWood) were added little by little and stirred. Furthermore, 0.6 parts by mass of etidronic acid (manufactured by Tokyo Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) was added and stirred to prepare a dispersion. To the resulting dispersion, 44.0 parts by mass of acryloylmorpholine (manufactured by KJ Chemicals Co., Ltd.), which had been passed through an activated alumina column to remove the polymerization inhibitor, and methylene bisacrylamide (manufactured by Tokyo Kasei Kogyo Co., Ltd.) were added as polymerizable monomers. ) 0.4 part by mass was added. Furthermore, 20.0 parts by mass of glycerin (manufactured by Sakamoto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.) and 0.8 parts by mass of N,N,N',N'-tetramethylethylenediamine (manufactured by Tokyo Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) were mixed, and a material for forming a hydrogel was added. I got it.

<<Application example 2>>
The liquid ejection head of the present invention can also be used for an inkjet method to arbitrarily arrange cells in order to artificially form a tissue body made of cells, and can eject a cell suspension (cell ink). It is. The cell suspension (cell ink) contains at least cells and a cell desiccation inhibitor. Furthermore, the cell suspension (cell ink) contains a dispersion medium in which cells are dispersed, and may contain other additive materials such as a dispersant and a pH adjuster, if necessary.

There are no particular restrictions on the type of cell, and it can be selected as appropriate depending on the purpose. Taxonomically, for example, regardless of whether it is a eukaryotic cell, a prokaryotic cell, a multicellular biological cell, or a unicellular biological cell, Can be used for all cells. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

Examples of eukaryotic cells include animal cells, insect cells, plant cells, and fungi. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, animal cells are preferable, and when the cells form a cell aggregate, cells adhere to each other and have cell adhesion to the extent that they cannot be isolated without physicochemical treatment. Cells are more preferred.

Cell desiccation inhibitors are substances that cover the surface of cells and have the function of suppressing cell desiccation, such as polyhydric alcohols, gel polysaccharides, and proteins selected from extracellular matrices. .

The dispersion medium is preferably a cell culture medium or buffer. A medium is a solution that contains components necessary for the formation and maintenance of cell tissues, prevents dryness and adjusts the external environment such as osmotic pressure, and can be appropriately selected and used as long as it is known as a medium. can. If it is not necessary to keep the cells constantly immersed in the medium, the medium can be removed from the cell suspension as appropriate. The buffer is used to adjust the pH depending on the cells and purpose, and any known buffer can be appropriately selected and used.

(Specific example of cell suspension (cell ink))
A green fluorescent dye (trade name: Cell Tracker Green, manufactured by Life Technologies) was dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (hereinafter referred to as "DMSO") at a concentration of 10 mmol/L (mM), and added to serum-free Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (Life Technologies). Technologies) to prepare a serum-free medium containing a green fluorescent dye at a concentration of 10 μmol/L (μM). Next, 5 mL of a serum-free medium containing a green fluorescent dye was added to a dish of cultured NIH/3T3 cells (Clone 5611, JCRB Cell Bank), and placed in an incubator (KM-CC17RU2, manufactured by Panasonic Corporation, 37°C, 5% CO2 by volume). environment)) for 30 minutes. Thereafter, the supernatant was removed using an aspirator. 5 mL of phosphate buffered saline (manufactured by Life Technologies, hereinafter also referred to as PBS(-)) was added to the dish, and the PBS(-) was removed by suction using an aspirator to wash the surface. After repeating the washing operation with PBS(-) twice, 2 mL of 0.05% by mass trypsin-0.05% by mass EDTA solution (manufactured by Life Technologies) was added to each dish.

Next, after heating in an incubator for 5 minutes to detach the cells from the dish, 10% by mass fetal bovine serum (hereinafter also referred to as "FBS") and 1% by mass antibiotic (Antibiotic-Antimycotic Mixed Stock Solution) were added. 100x), manufactured by Nacalai Tesque Co., Ltd.) was added. Next, the cell suspension in which trypsin was inactivated was transferred to a 50 mL centrifuge tube, centrifuged (product name: H-19FM, manufactured by KOKUSAN, 1,200 rpm, 5 minutes, 5°C), and aspirated. The supernatant was removed using

After removal, 2 mL of D-MEM containing 10% by mass FBS and 1% by mass of antibiotics was added to the centrifuge tube, and gently pipetting was performed to disperse the cells to obtain a cell suspension. 10 μL of this cell suspension was taken out into an Eppendorf tube, 70 μL of medium was added, 10 μL was taken out into another Eppendorf tube, 10 μL of 0.4% trypan blue staining solution was added, and pipetting was performed. 10 μL was taken out from the stained cell suspension and placed on a PMMA plastic slide.

A cell suspension with a counted cell number was obtained by counting the number of cells using a brand name: Countess Automated Cell Counter (manufactured by Invitrogen). PBS(-) was used as a dispersion medium. Glycerin (molecular biology grade, manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) as a cell drying inhibitor was dissolved in PBS (-) to a mass ratio of 0.5%, and the NIH/3T3 cell suspension was added. A cell ink was obtained by dispersing the cells in a dispersion medium at 6×10 6 cells/mL.

What has been described above is just an example, and the present invention provides unique effects in each of the following aspects.

A first aspect includes a nozzle plate in which a plurality of nozzles that eject liquid are arranged at a predetermined pitch (d) corresponding to a recording resolution in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, and the plurality of nozzles are arranged on the nozzle plate. It is divided into P sub-nozzle groups (P is an integer of 1 or more) (for example, a first sub-nozzle group SBN1, a second sub-nozzle group SBN2) each consisting of a plurality of sub-nozzles arranged at intervals of (d×P) in the longitudinal direction. , each of the sub-nozzle groups is arranged at intervals of (d×P) in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate and inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate and the short direction of the nozzle plate perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. A nozzle row is a set of rows consisting of sub-nozzle rows of P sub-nozzle groups, which have a sub-nozzle row (for example, sub-nozzle rows 11sb1, 11sb2), which is made up of a plurality of sub-nozzles arranged in a direction, and are arranged in a row along the inclined direction. (for example, a nozzle row 11N), the nozzle row having N nozzles is arranged on the nozzle plate in a region near the center of the nozzle plate in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, and the nozzle row has N nozzles. At a first end of the nozzle plate that is closer to the first end than the region closer to the center in the longitudinal direction (for example, the left end of the nozzle plate 10 in FIG. 10), there are M smaller than the N pieces. The nozzle row (e.g., nozzle row 11M) having nozzles is disposed on a second end side opposite to the first end side from a region closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. The nozzle row (for example, nozzle row 11L) having (NM) nozzles is arranged at the second end of the nozzle plate (for example, the right end of the nozzle plate 10 in FIG. 10). It is characterized by:

According to the first aspect, it is possible to provide a liquid ejection head that has excellent robustness and can reduce damage caused by external impact.

In a second aspect, in the first aspect, the direction in which the nozzle rows are lined up (for example, the direction inclined at an angle θb with respect to the nozzle plate short direction) is the direction of the ridgeline of the short side of the nozzle plate (for example, the nozzle plate short direction). This is characterized by being different from the direction (a direction inclined at an angle θa with respect to the hand direction).

According to the second aspect, when a plurality of nozzle plates (heads) are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, the short edge of the ridge line of the nozzle plate crosses between M nozzles and NM nozzles. The edges are placed. In this case, the M nozzles on one nozzle plate and the NM nozzles on the other nozzle plate can be connected without significantly offsetting the two nozzle plates in the nozzle plate lateral direction perpendicular to the nozzle plate longitudinal direction. can be arranged regularly. By arranging the two nozzle plates side by side so that the short sides of their ridge lines face each other, the size of the entire head in the short direction can be reduced. In addition, the distance from the end nozzle of M nozzles to the short side of the ridge line, and the distance from the end nozzle of N nozzles to the short side of the ridge line must be secured in the short direction of the nozzle plate. This makes it possible to further prevent the nozzle at the end from chipping due to external shocks, etc.

A third aspect of the present invention is that in the first aspect or the second aspect, the plurality of nozzle rows are arranged within a region having an approximately parallelogram external shape.

According to the third aspect, a plurality of nozzle plates can be regularly arranged to form a long head, and the overall size of the head can be reduced. Further, the overall size of the head unit configured by arranging a plurality of heads can be reduced.

In a fourth aspect, in any of the first to third aspects, the value of P is an integer of 2 or more, and a first sub-nozzle group (for example, a first sub-nozzle group SBN1) is selected as the plurality of sub-nozzle groups. and a second sub-nozzle group (e.g., second sub-nozzle group SBN2), and as it goes from the center region toward the first end (e.g., the left end of the nozzle plate 10 in FIG. 10), The number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle row of the first sub-nozzle group gradually decreases, and after the number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle row of the first sub-nozzle group reaches zero, the second The nozzles are arranged so that the number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle rows of the sub-nozzle group gradually decreases.

According to the fourth aspect, by having two sub-nozzle groups, the recording resolution of the head can be increased compared to the case where there is only one sub-nozzle group, and the recording resolution of the head can be increased even to the very edge of the head (nozzle plate). It is possible to form a nozzle row consisting of the same number of nozzles as the area closer to the center without arranging any nozzles.

In a fifth aspect, in any of the first to fourth aspects, the value of P is an integer of 2 or more, and a first sub-nozzle group (for example, a first sub-nozzle group SBN1) is selected as the plurality of sub-nozzle groups. and a second sub-nozzle group (e.g., second sub-nozzle group SBN2), and as it goes from the center region toward the second end (e.g., the right end of the nozzle plate 10 in FIG. 10), The number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle row of the second sub-nozzle group gradually decreases, and after the number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle row of the second sub-nozzle group reaches zero, the first The nozzles are arranged so that the number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle rows of the sub-nozzle group gradually decreases.

According to the fifth aspect, by having two sub-nozzle groups, the recording resolution of the head can be increased compared to the case where there is only one sub-nozzle group, and the recording resolution of the head can be increased even to the very edge of the head (nozzle plate). It is possible to form a nozzle row consisting of the same number of nozzles as the area closer to the center without arranging any nozzles.

In a sixth aspect, in any of the first to fifth aspects, the first end (for example, the left end of the nozzle plate 10 in FIG. 10) and the second end (for example, Assuming that N nozzles are arranged per row in the same manner as in the area near the center at the right end of the nozzle plate 10 in FIG. An area outside the side is defined as a first defect area (for example, a first defect area A), and an area outside the short side of the ridge line of the nozzle plate at the second end is defined as a second defect area. When defining a defective region (for example, a second defective region B), at least a part of the N−M nozzles among the N nozzles assumed at the first end are defined as the first defective region B. The present invention is characterized in that at least some of the M nozzles among the N nozzles assumed at the second end are located in the second defect region.

According to the sixth aspect, it is possible to form a nozzle row consisting of the same number of nozzles as the area closer to the center without arranging the nozzles to the very edge of the head (nozzle plate).

In a seventh aspect, in any of the first to third aspects, the value of P is an integer of 2 or more, and a first sub-nozzle group (for example, a first sub-nozzle group SBN1) is selected as the plurality of sub-nozzle groups. ) and a second sub-nozzle group (for example, second sub-nozzle group SBN2), a nozzle row having N nozzles is arranged in a region near the center in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, and At the end, a nozzle row (for example, nozzle rows 11Na, 11Nb) having N/2 nozzles consisting of only the sub-nozzle row of the first sub-nozzle group or only the sub-nozzle row of the second sub-nozzle group ).

Also in the seventh aspect, it is possible to provide a liquid ejection head that has excellent robustness and can reduce damage caused by external impacts. Further, the overall size of the head unit configured by arranging a plurality of heads can be reduced.

In an eighth aspect, in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the liquid ejection head includes a plurality of the nozzle plates, and a plurality of the nozzle plates are arranged in a line in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. It is characterized by being

According to the eighth aspect, for example, at least some of the flow paths and wiring can be made common to a plurality of nozzle plates, thereby simplifying the configuration and increasing the degree of freedom in design.

1 head module 101 head 102 head holding member 103 mount member 104 drive circuit 105 board (flexible wiring board)
10 Nozzle plate 11 Nozzle 11L Nozzle row (N-M nozzles)
11M nozzle row (M nozzles)
11N nozzle row (N nozzles)
11Na, 11Nb nozzle row (N/2 nozzles)
11sb1 1st sub-nozzle row 11sb2 2nd sub-nozzle row SBN1 1st sub-nozzle group SBN2 2nd sub-nozzle group 20 Channel plate (individual channel member)
21 Pressure chamber 22 Individual supply channel 23 Individual recovery channel 25 Individual channel 30 Vibration plate member 31 Vibration plate 32 Supply side opening 33 Recovery side opening 40 Piezoelectric element 50 Common channel member 52 Common supply channel tributary 53 Common recovery flow Channel tributary 54 Supply port 55 Recovery port 56 Common supply channel main stream 57 Common recovery channel main stream 60 Damper member 62 Supply side damper 63 Recovery side damper 80 Frame member 81 Supply port 82 Discharge port 500 Printing device 555 Head unit

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-173264 Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-160566

Claims (10)

a nozzle plate in which a plurality of nozzles for ejecting liquid are arranged at a predetermined pitch (d) corresponding to the recording resolution in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate;
The plurality of nozzles are divided into P sub-nozzle groups (P is an integer of 1 or more) each consisting of a plurality of sub-nozzles arranged at intervals of (d×P) in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate,
Each of the sub-nozzle groups is arranged at intervals of (d×P) in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, and in a direction inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate and the lateral direction of the nozzle plate orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. It has a sub-nozzle row consisting of a plurality of sub-nozzles lined up,
When a set of rows consisting of sub-nozzle rows of P sub-nozzle groups arranged in a row along the inclined direction is defined as a nozzle row,
The nozzle plate includes
The nozzle row having N nozzles is arranged in a region near the center of the nozzle plate in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate,
The nozzle row having M nozzles smaller than the N is arranged at a first end of the nozzle plate that is closer to the first end than the region closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. ,
(NM) pieces at the second end of the nozzle plate, which is on the second end side opposite to the first end side of the region closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. A liquid ejection head characterized in that the nozzle row having nozzles is arranged. 2. The liquid ejection head according to claim 1, wherein the direction in which the nozzle rows are lined up is different from the direction of a ridgeline on a short side of the nozzle plate. 3. The liquid ejection head according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of nozzle rows are arranged within a region having an approximately parallelogram external shape. The value of P is an integer of 2 or more,
It has a first sub-nozzle group and a second sub-nozzle group as the plurality of sub-nozzle groups,
The number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle rows of the first sub-nozzle group gradually decreases from the region near the center toward the first end, and the number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle rows of the first sub-nozzle group gradually decreases. Claim characterized in that the nozzles are arranged so that after the number of included nozzles becomes zero, the number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle row of the second sub-nozzle group decreases sequentially. 4. The liquid ejection head according to any one of 1 to 3. The value of P is an integer of 2 or more,
It has a first sub-nozzle group and a second sub-nozzle group as the plurality of sub-nozzle groups,
The number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle rows of the second sub-nozzle group gradually decreases from the region near the center toward the second end, and the number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle rows of the second sub-nozzle group gradually decreases. Claim characterized in that the nozzles are arranged so that after the number of included nozzles becomes zero, the number of nozzles included in the sub-nozzle row of the first sub-nozzle group decreases sequentially. 5. The liquid ejection head according to any one of 1 to 4. Assume that N nozzles are arranged in each row at the first end and the second end according to the same rule as in the area near the center,
A region outside the short side of the ridgeline of the nozzle plate at the first end is defined as a first defective region,
When a region outside the short side of the ridgeline of the nozzle plate at the second end is defined as a second defective region,
Among the N nozzles assumed at the first end, at least some of the NM nozzles are in the first defective region,
According to any one of claims 1 to 5, at least a portion of M nozzles among the N nozzles assumed at the second end are located in the second defective region. The liquid ejection head described. The value of P is an integer of 2 or more,
It has a first sub-nozzle group and a second sub-nozzle group as the plurality of sub-nozzle groups,
A nozzle row having N nozzles is arranged in a region near the center in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate, and only the sub-nozzle row of the first sub-nozzle group or the 4. The liquid ejection head according to claim 1, wherein a nozzle row having N/2 nozzles consisting only of the sub-nozzle rows of two sub-nozzle groups is arranged. The liquid according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the liquid ejection head includes a plurality of the nozzle plates, and a plurality of the nozzle plates are arranged in a line in the longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. discharge head. A liquid ejection unit comprising a plurality of liquid ejection heads according to claim 1 arranged in a longitudinal direction of the nozzle plate. A liquid ejection apparatus comprising the liquid ejection head according to claim 1 or the liquid ejection unit according to claim 9.