WO1999061258A1

WO1999061258A1 - Writing instrument

Info

Publication number: WO1999061258A1
Application number: PCT/JP1999/002804
Authority: WO
Inventors: Takao Koyama
Original assignee: Mitsubishi Pencil Kabushiki Kaisha
Priority date: 1998-05-27
Filing date: 1999-05-27
Publication date: 1999-12-02
Also published as: AU3954699A; EP1093936A1; KR20010043725A; EP1093936A4

Abstract

A writing instrument (A) having an ink tank portion (31) for storing ink (11) therein, characterized in that the ink (11) in the ink tank portion (31) comprises an ink component (12), and a layer separation component (13) separated in the form of layer from the ink component (12), both the specific gravity and surface tension of the layer separation component (13) being lower than those of the ink component (12), the ink (11) being able to move freely in the interior of the ink tank portion (31). Owing to these characteristics, a writing instrument and a liquid application device in which a remaining amount of the ink can be visually recognized are provided.

Description

Specification

Technical Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a writing implement having an ink tank section for storing ink, and more particularly, to a direct liquid writing implement or a method of supplying raw ink in an ink tank section to a pen tip. Excellent visibility of remaining ink or coating liquid in writing instruments with cartridge-type ink tanks for storing, and liquid applicators with cartridge-type tanks for storing coating liquid. Writing instruments and liquid applicators. BACKGROUND ART In general, one of the features of a direct liquid type writing instrument is that the remaining ink amount can be confirmed (visibility). In other words, in the direct liquid type writing instrument, ink is filled in the ink tank serving as the shaft, and the ink moves freely in the ink tank, and when the pen tip is directed downward, the ink remaining amount is measured. It can be confirmed by the visible part of the part. At present, the shaft used in direct liquid type writing instruments is made of polypropylene or the like, which has excellent transparency and solvent resistance and is excellent in molding, as it can secure visibility. There is known a method of improving the visibility by performing a surface treatment such as a treatment with fluorine, a silicone treatment, or the like on the ink by using a rib shape or the like.

However, the method of improving the ink drainage property by the rib shape or the like has a problem in that the steps such as complicating the mold shape become complicated. Also, Even if the surface has been improved such as ink removal by the shape of the ink or surface treatment such as fluorine treatment or silicone treatment, the visibility is still insufficient, especially for dark inks such as black and blue. However, there is still a problem in the visibility of the direct liquid type writing instrument filled with the ink, which is poor in the cutting performance of the ink, and there is no such thing in practice that has excellent visibility.

On the other hand, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 3-53902 discloses a transparent or translucent ink cylinder made of polyethylene or polypropylene, wherein the ink is a water-based ink, and the water-based ink has a terminal side. In the ink cylinder of a writing implement made of a grease-like backflow preventing agent (ink follower) that is incompatible with the aqueous ink, the aqueous ink flows through the backflow at the center of the contact surface between the aqueous ink and the backflow preventing agent. The anti-reflux agent is made of polybutene so that the water-based ink wets the ink cylinder more easily than the anti-reflux agent wets the ink tube so that the anti-reflux agent comes into contact with the anti-reflection agent. There is known an ink-ink barrel for a writing instrument, wherein the water-based ink has a smaller wettability with respect to the ink-cylinder than the wetness of the polybutene with respect to the ink-cylinder.

However, the purpose, technical idea, and the like described in this publication are as follows. In order to prevent the ink from scattering from the ink cylinder, a grease-like polybutene backflow preventing agent that is incompatible with the aqueous ink is brought into contact with the ink and filled. However, the boundary line between the ink and the anti-reflux agent moves smoothly in accordance with the amount of ink written out, so that the boundary line can always be easily observed from outside the ink, and the amount of ink in the ink cylinder can be reliably read. The ink cylinder is a structure in which the ink can freely move in the shaft portion also serving as the ink tank, which is one of the inventions of the present invention, and when the pen tip is directed downward, the remaining amount of the ink can be confirmed by the visual recognition portion of the shaft portion. The purpose and structure of the writing instrument are different from those of the direct liquid writing instrument, and the ink having such a composition cannot be applied with the above-mentioned grease-like polybutene backflow inhibitor. In addition, a number of writing implements in which an ink tank portion for storing ink is a cartridge type have been conventionally known (for example, Japanese Utility Model Application Laid-Open No. 56-42070). In the case of a writing instrument whose ink tank is a force cartridge type, when it is used repeatedly, the ink inside the ink tank is completely consumed and writing is performed until the drawing lines are blurred, and then replaced with a new cartridge.

However, even if a new cartridge is used for writing, there is a problem that the amount of ink spilled from the original pen tip is remarkably reduced and the writing line density is remarkably reduced, so that the ink cannot be used. At present, no satisfactory solution has been proposed yet.

The cause of the above-mentioned problems is that, due to the complete consumption of ink, a space due to air is created in the pen core, which is the pen tip, and clogging occurs due to aggregation of the pigment in that space, and a new force cartridge is installed. It is speculated that the flow rate of ink passing through the pen core is significantly suppressed, and as a result, the drawing line density is significantly reduced.

Further, such problems and the like also have the same problems as described above in a liquid applicator in which a tank for accommodating an application liquid such as a nail polish is a force-tridge type.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems of the conventional direct liquid type and cartridge type writing implements and liquid applicators, and is intended to solve the problem. The present invention provides a writing instrument and a liquid applicator in which the replacement time of an ink cartridge and the like can be reliably visually confirmed, and the original ink flow amount can be maintained as it is even when the ink cartridge is replaced with a new one. Aim. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION As a result of diligent studies on the above-mentioned conventional problems, the present inventor has found that, in addition to an ink component or a coating liquid component contained in an ink tank or the like, a component having specific physical properties is filled, and the like. The present inventors have found that a writing instrument and a liquid applicator having the above object can be obtained, and have completed the present invention. That is, the present invention resides in the following (1) to (7).

(1) In a writing instrument having an ink tank portion for storing ink, the ink in the ink tank portion is composed of an ink component and a layer separation component that separates the ink component from the ink component, and the layer separation component has a specific gravity higher than that of the ink component. A writing implement characterized by low surface tension and the ability of ink to move freely in the ink tank.

(2) The writing implement according to the above (1), wherein the writing implement is a direct liquid type writing implement having a viewing portion for confirming the remaining ink amount on a shaft portion also serving as an ink tank portion.

(3) The writing implement according to the above (1), wherein the writing implement is a writing implement provided with a cartridge-type ink tank unit for storing ink.

(4) The writing implement according to (2) above, wherein the surface tension of the layer separation component is smaller than the surface tension of the visual recognition part for confirming the remaining amount of ink in the shaft part also serving as the ink tank.

(5) The writing implement according to any one of the above (1) to (4), wherein the viscosity of the layer separation component is 100 0 OmPa · s or less at 25 ° C.

(6) The viscosity of the ink component is 10 OmPas or less at 25 ° C (1) to

The writing instrument according to any one of (6).

(7) In a liquid applicator provided with a force-trigger type tank portion for storing a coating solution, the coating solution in the tank portion comprises a coating solution component, and a layer separation component for layer-separating the coating solution component, A liquid applicator characterized in that the layer separation component has a smaller specific gravity and a lower surface tension than the coating solution component, and the coating solution can move freely in the tank.

Note that, in the present invention, a "direct liquid writing implement" has an ink tank that directly stores ink without absorbing it into batting or the like, and when the air in the ink tank expands due to a rise in temperature or the like. This is a writing implement with an ink reservoir (part of the collector) that temporarily stores the ink pushed out of the ink tank from the pen tip and air holes to prevent it from dripping. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an explanatory view showing an example of the embodiment in a case where the direct liquid writing instrument of the present invention is applied to a marking pen, in a sectional form.

FIG. 2 (a) is an explanatory view showing an example of an embodiment in which the direct liquid writing instrument of the present invention is applied to a pole pen in a sectional view, and FIG. 2 (b) is a plan view of the ink tank of FIG. 2 (a). It is explanatory drawing shown in an aspect.

FIG. 3 is a schematic explanatory diagram for explaining the outline of the writing instrument of the present invention in (a) and (b).

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the liquid applicator of the present invention in an exploded view.

FIG. 5 is a sectional view showing a state where the liquid applicator of FIG. 4 is set.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a writing instrument used in Example 7 and Comparative Example 7. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION In order to describe the present invention in more detail, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 and 2 show an embodiment of a direct liquid type writing instrument, FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of a writing instrument having a cartridge type ink tank, and FIGS. 4 and 5 show 1 is an embodiment of a liquid applicator provided with a force cartridge type application liquid tank unit.

FIG. 1 is an example of an embodiment in which a direct liquid writing instrument is applied to a marking pen.

As shown in FIG. 1, the direct liquid writing implement A of the present embodiment has a structure in which the ink 11 in the ink tank portion 10 serving as a shaft portion is separated from the ink component 12 and the ink component 12 by a layer. The layer separation component 13 has a lower specific gravity and a lower surface tension than the ink component 12, and the ink 11 can move freely in the ink tank portion 10. It is characterized by the following.

In FIG. 1, 14 is a collector member, 15 is a holder member, 16 is a relay core, and 17 is a pen core serving as a pen tip. The ink is drawn from the ink tank 10 to the pen core 17 via a relay core 16 provided with an ink flow passage provided in the center hole 14 a of the collector member 14. By drawing out the ink 11 to the pen tip 17.

In the present invention, the layer separation component 13 is for improving the visibility of the visible portion in the shaft portion 10 also serving as an ink tank, and the surface tension of the layer separation component 13 is the ink component 1 in the ink 11. In particular, if the surface tension is smaller than the surface tension of (2), the layer separates without being compatible with the ink component (12), and the specific gravity is smaller than that of the ink component (12). It is not limited.

The layer separation component 13 separates layers without being compatible with the ink component 12 and does not adversely affect the physical properties of the ink component 12.

In addition, the layer separation component 13 is a visual recognition unit for confirming the remaining amount of ink in the shaft unit 10 where the surface tension of the layer separation component 13 also serves as an ink tank (in the present embodiment, the entire shaft unit serving as a visual recognition unit). Even if the surface tension is larger than the surface tension of the ink, the purpose of the present invention is to make it easy to confirm the remaining amount of the ink. However, preferably, the layer separation component 13 has the surface tension of the layer separation component 13 of the ink tank. It is desirable that the surface tension be smaller than the surface tension of the visible portion (the entire shaft portion becomes the visible portion) for confirming the remaining ink amount of the shaft portion 10 also serving as the visual portion. This layer separation component makes it easier to confirm the remaining amount of ink.

As the layer separation component 13 used in the present invention, for example, a linear silicone oil having a dimethylsiloxane bond as a main skeleton, a cyclic silicone oil, a part of a methyl group is replaced with another functional group (an amino group, an epoxy group, Modified silicone oil modified with olepoxyl group, carbinol group, methacryl group, mercapto group, alkyl group, higher fatty acid ester group, higher alkoxy group, fluorine group, methylstyryl group, etc.) or hydrocarbon-based Liquid substances etc. can be listed as one type or a mixture of two or more types. You.

Specifically, a linear silicone oil represented by the following general formula (I), a cyclic silicone oil represented by the following general formula (II), and a silicone oil represented by the following general formulas (III) to (VI) Modified silicone oil with an organic group introduced into the side chain or both ends of the siloxane, or one end, and the side chain or both ends (amino-modified silicone oil, epoxy-modified silicone oil, carboxyl-modified silicone oil, carbinol-modified silicone oil) Silicone oil, modified silicone oil, modified mercapto silicone oil, modified phenolic silicone oil, modified silicone oil at one end (modified carbinol modified silicone oil at one end, modified epoxy silicone oil at one end, modified acrylic oil at one end) Modified silicone oil, etc.), modified silicone oil of different functional groups (epoxy / polyether group modified silicone oil, No.polyether group modified silicone oil, amino / alkoxy group modified silicone oil, etc.), polyether modified silicone oil, methylstyryl modified silicone oil, alkyl modified silicone oil, higher fatty acid ester modified silicone oil, hydrophilic modified silicone oil Oil, higher alkoxy-modified silicone oil, higher fatty acid-containing modified silicone oil, fluorine-modified silicone oil, etc.)

Mineral oils (60, 1000, 150, 300, 500, neutral oils, bright stocks, etc.) and synthetic oils such as poly-α-polyolefin (ethylene-propylene copolymer, polybutene, 1-octene oligomers and their hydrides), alkylbenzenes, alkylnaphthylene, polyalkylene glycols (polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, etc.), diesters (di-2-ethylhexyl sebacate, diisooctyl adipate) , Dioctyl adipate, dioctyl sebacate, diisodecyl adipate, dibutyl adipate, etc.), and polyol esters (trimethylolpropane ester, neopentyldaricol, diperargonate, penpo erythri! Letetraperargonate, di (isooctyl) azelate, bis (2,2-dimethyloctyl) azelate, bis (2,2-dimethylpentyl) 2,2,8,8-tetraethylaze Rates, etc.), phosphates (tricresyl phosphate, etc.), silanes

(Didodecyldioctylsilane, etc.), silicates (hexa (2-ethyl butoxy) disiloxane, etc.), polyphenyl ethers (m-bis- (m-phenoxyphenoxy) benzene, bis ( m-phenoxyphenyl) ether], fluorocarbons (fluorocarbon, etc.), neopentyl polyol esters, other castor oil, squalene, higher fatty acids (oleic acid, lauric acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, etc.) , Isostearic acid, isostearyl alcohol, branched higher alcohols, polyglycerin esters, apogado oil, almond oil, olive oil, sesame oil, southern power oil, safflower oil, camellia oil, corn oil, rapeseed oil, Cottonseed oil, peanut oil, palm oil, coconut oil, vaseline, It is possible to use one or a mixture of two or more hydrocarbon-based oils such as polystanester, squalane, liquid paraffin, etc. Things.

[N in the formula (I) is an integer of 0 to 250;

CH ₃

S i — 0 — (II)

I

CH ₃

[N in the formula (II) is an integer of 3 to 6. ] CH: CH: CH: CH ₃

I I

C H I

• S i--S i-■ S i -S i—— C H: — (III)

I I I

CH; CH: Organic group CH ₃

CH ₃ CH _: CH:

I I I

Organic group • S i—— 0- • S i- -S i- Organic group • (IV)

I I

CH ₃ CH _: CH _:

CH: CH ₃ CH ₃

I I I

C H; -S i- ■ S i—— 0- ■ s i——Organic group · '· (ν)

I I I

CH; CH ₃₀ R

CH ₃ CH; CH: CH:

I I I

Attached group -S i—— 0- ■ S i-■ S i • S i- -Au group • (VI)

I I I

CH ₃ CH; organic group CH _; In the above general formulas (III) to (VI), m and n are integers of 0 or more, and m and n are appropriately set, respectively, and function as a layer separation component. Those within the range are limited.

In particular, the preferred layer separation component 13 is the case where the layer separation component 13 is discharged from the pen core 17 of the direct liquid writing implement A (the case where the ink component 12 in the ink tank 10 is finally discharged after being consumed by writing). In consideration of the fact that the paper surface is not contaminated and there is no residual property, volatile oils may be mentioned. For example, volatile linear silicone oil [where n is 5 to 30 in the above general formula (I)] And volatile cyclic silicone oil [in the above general formula (II), when n is 3 to 4].

In the present invention, when the surface tension of the layer separation component 13 is larger than the ink component 12 in the ink 11, the layer separation component cannot intervene between the surface of the ink tank member and the ink component, and a clear drain cannot be performed. When the layer separation component 13 has a higher specific gravity than the ink component 12, at the time of writing (normal writing with the pen tip downward), the layer separation component passes through the pen core through the relay core or stays on the writing surface. Normal drawing lines may not be obtained, which is not preferable.

The phase separation component 13 has a viscosity at 25 ° C. of not more than 1000 OmPa · s, preferably not more than 100 OmPa · s, and more preferably not more than 3 OmPa · s.

If the viscosity exceeds 1000 OmPas, it takes time to check the remaining ink and it is difficult to check the remaining ink.

The amount of the layer separation component used is 0.01% to 50%, preferably 0.1% to 20%, and more preferably 1% to 10%, based on the internal volume (volume) of the ink tank. If the amount of the layer separation component is less than 0.01%, a portion that cannot intervene between the surface of the ink tank member and the ink component is generated, and a clear drain cannot be formed, and the amount of the layer separation component is 50%. Exceeds the limit, when writing horizontally with the pen tip, the normal writing line may not be obtained due to the layer separation component on the side of the relay core. is there.

Further, the ink component 12 of the present invention is not particularly limited as long as it separates the layer from the layer separation component 13 and functions as an ink component of a writing instrument. Colorants consisting of pigments, resins, dispersants, preservatives, other additives for writing instruments, etc. can be used in water (purified water, ion-exchanged water, etc.) or organic solvents (1-methoxy-2-propanol, 1-ethoxy-2-propanol). , Benzyl alcohol, ethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, carbitol, cellosolve, glycerin, ethylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol, 1-butanol, 2-butanol, t-butyl Alcohol, etc.) or a mixture of two or more of them, dissolved or dispersed in a liquid. Water-based inks and oil-based inks used can be used.

The viscosity of the ink component at 25 ° C. is preferably 10 OmPa · s or less, more preferably 5 OmPa-s or less, and even more preferably 1 OmPa · s or less.

If the viscosity of the ink component exceeds 10 OmPas, the movement in the ink tank will be poor and it will be difficult to check the remaining amount of the ink, and the ink tracking will be extremely poor in writing. Is generated.

In addition, as the member of the shaft part which also serves as the ink tank and the visual recognition part used in the present invention, a transparent injection-moldable thermoplastic plastic can be mentioned. Specifically, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate Rate, polystyrene, polyetherimide, polyacrylonitrile, polysulfone, acrylonitrile acryl styrene copolymer, acrylonitrile styrene copolymer, butadiene styrene methyl methacrylate copolymer, ethylene monochloride copolymer, ethylene vinyl alcohol Copolymers, polymethylpentene, polyethersulfone and the like can be exemplified.

It is preferable to select a thermoplastic having a large surface tension and no solubility for the ink component and the layer separation component in the ink. The surface of the visible portion inside the shaft portion which also functions as the ink tank and the visible portion may be subjected to a surface treatment such as a fluororesin or a silicone resin to further improve the visibility.

In the direct liquid type writing implement A of the present embodiment, the layer separation component 13 having the above-described characteristics leaves the ink component 12 in the ink tank 10 serving as the visible portion without leaving the ink component 12, and the ink runs out in a short time. Is extremely excellent in visibility.

Also, by filling the ink tank 10 with the ink 11 composed of the ink component 12 and the layer separation component 13 having the above characteristics, a direct liquid writing instrument with excellent visibility of the remaining amount of the ink can be obtained. In this way, the desired direct liquid writing instrument can be manufactured without going through the steps of forming a rib shape on the conventional ink for improving the visibility of the remaining ink, thereby reducing productivity and cost. This will provide a direct liquid writing instrument that is excellent in terms of surface.

2 (a) and 2 (b) are explanatory diagrams showing an embodiment in which a direct liquid writing instrument is applied to a pole pen.

The direct-liquid writing implement B of the present embodiment includes an ink 21 in an ink tank 20 serving as a shaft portion, an ink component 22, and a layer separation component 23 that separates the ink component 22 from the ink component 22. The layer separation component 23 has a lower specific gravity and a lower surface tension than the ink component 22, and the ink component 22 can freely move in the shaft portion 20 also serving as the ink component. is there.

In addition, the surface tension of the layer separation component 23 is smaller than the surface tension of the viewing portion 20a for confirming the remaining amount of ink in the shaft portion 20 also serving as an ink tank.

′ A coating film such as a coating film or a metal vapor-deposited film is applied to the surface of the ink tank 20 other than the visible portion 20 a to form an opaque portion that cannot be visually recognized. As the ink tank 20, the ink component 22, the layer separation component 23, and the like serving as the shaft portion, those described in detail in the above-described embodiment of the making ben can be used.

In FIG. 2, reference numeral 24 denotes a collector member, reference numeral 25 denotes a holder member, and reference numeral 26 denotes a collector member. A relay core made up of an induction core 26a and a medium core 26b, and a pen tip 27 made up of a ballpoint pen tip. Also, the ink is drawn out from the ink tank 20 to the pen tip 27 by the induction core 26 a and the center core 26 b provided with an ink flow path provided in the center hole 24 a of the collector member 24. This is performed by drawing out the ink 21 from the ink tank 20 to the pen tip 27 through a relay core 26 composed of

In the direct liquid type writing implement B of the present embodiment, a visual recognition portion 20a (a visual recognition portion of the same structure is also formed on the opposite back surface side) is formed in a part of the ink tank 20. Even if the visible part 20a is a part of the ink tank 20, the layer separation component 23 having the above characteristics leaves no ink component on the surface of the visible part 20a and the ink is cut off in a short time. Therefore, it has good clear drain properties and extremely excellent visibility of ink remaining amount.

In particular, when the visual recognition part is formed in a part of the ink tank, the conventional direct liquid type writing instrument filled with a dark ink component such as black or blue has a rib shape or the like. Even ink tanks have poor ink drainability and still have a problem with their visibility. However, in the present invention, a direct liquid writing instrument filled with black or blue or other dark colored ink is used. However, it does not leave any ink components on the surface of the visible portion 20a, runs out of ink in a short time, and has excellent visibility of the remaining amount of ink.

The direct liquid type writing implement of the present invention is not limited to the marking pen and the pole pen of the above embodiment, but can be applied to a brush pen, a fountain pen, a sign pen, an applicator such as cosmetics, and the like.

In addition, as described above, the direct liquid writing implement of each of the above-described embodiments is characterized by an ink composed of an ink component filled in the ink tank portion and a layer separation component having the above characteristics. The structure and the like of the direct liquid type writing instrument having the configuration are not particularly limited.

The direct liquid writing implement according to the embodiment of the present invention is configured as described above. The ink in the ink tank portion is composed of an ink component and a layer separation component that separates the ink component from the ink component, and the layer separation component has a lower specific gravity and a lower surface tension than the ink component. By allowing the ink to move freely, the ink does not leave any ink component on the surface of the shaft portion, runs out of ink in a short time, and is extremely excellent in visibility of the remaining ink amount.

Further, if the layer separation component has a surface tension smaller than the surface tension of the shaft portion (viewing portion) also serving as the ink tank, the visibility of the remaining ink amount is further excellent.

Furthermore, simply filling the ink tank with ink composed of the ink component and the layer separation component having the above-described characteristics provides a direct liquid-type writing instrument with excellent visibility of the remaining amount of the ink. A direct liquid writing instrument excellent in cost can be provided. FIG. 3 is a schematic explanatory view for explaining an outline of an embodiment of a writing instrument provided with a cartridge type ink tank portion.

As shown in FIG. 3 (a), the writing implement C of the cartridge type according to the present embodiment is provided with a detachable force-trigger type ink tank portion 31 on a writing implement main body 30 serving as a shaft. The ink 32 in the ink tank section 31 comprises an ink component 33 and a layer separation component 34 that separates the ink component 33 from the ink component 33. The layer separation component 34 is greater than the ink component 33. It is characterized in that both the specific gravity and the surface tension are small, and the ink 32 can move freely in the ink tank 31.

In addition, a pen tip 35 composed of a pen core or the like is attached to the tip of the writing implement body 30.

The ink component 33 contained in the ink tank portion 31 is not particularly limited, and includes the various components shown in the above-described embodiment of the marking pen, and includes, for example, a dye and Z or a pigment. Aqueous inks comprising a colorant, water, an organic solvent, and the like are included. In addition, conventionally known additives such as a pH adjuster, a dispersant, a preservative, an antiseptic, and a dye for complementary colors are appropriately added to these ink components as necessary. be able to.

In addition, the layer separation component 3 4 contained together with the ink component 3 3 in the ink tank portion 3 1 has a lower specific gravity and a lower surface tension than the ink component 33, and the ink 3 2 is filled in the ink tank portion 3 1. It is necessary to be able to move freely, and even if the ink component 33 is completely consumed by writing and the drawn line density is significantly reduced, the amount of the layer separation component 34 still contained in the ink tank 31 is small. Required.

The required amount of the layer separation component 34 is not particularly limited as long as the specific gravity and the surface tension are both smaller than those of the ink component 33 and the ink has the property of allowing the ink to move freely in the ink tank. For example, various layer separation components having the characteristics shown in the above-described embodiment of the marking pen may be used.

In the present embodiment, the material, size, shape, etc. of the cartridge type ink tank portion 31 and the pen tip portion 35 containing the ink 32 composed of the ink component 33 and the layer separation component 34 having the above-mentioned characteristics are stored. Is not particularly limited, and those shown in the above-described embodiments of the marking vane can be used. For example, as the pen tip 35, a fiber convergent body integrated with the pen tip, a synthetic resin pen tip having continuous porosity, a small tube tip, and the like are appropriately used.

In the writing implement C of the present embodiment configured as described above, the ink 32 in the ink tank portion 31 includes an ink component 33 and a layer separation component 34 that separates the layer from the ink component 33. The layer separation component 34 has a lower specific gravity and a lower surface tension than the ink component 33, and the ink 32 can move freely in the ink tank 31. Even if the ink component 33 is completely consumed by writing and the drawn line density is significantly reduced, as shown in Fig. 3 (b), the layer separation component 34 is contained in the ink tank 31. The pen tip 35 is filled with a layer separation component 34.

Therefore, when the layer separation component 34 flows out of the pen tip 35, that is, when the writing line changes from the ink component 33 to the layer separation component 34, The ink in the part 31 is completely consumed, and this indicates that the ink tank part 31 has been replaced (signed).

Also, in this embodiment, even if the next new ink tank section 31 is replaced, the pen tip section is replaced.

Since there is no space in the space 5 due to air or clogging due to agglomeration of the pigment contained in the ink component in the space, the original amount of ink flowing out can be maintained as it is, and the original drawing line density can be maintained . Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the ink tank 31 can be replaced repeatedly until writing failure occurs due to damage to the pen tip 35 itself. If the pen tip 35 is of a cartridge type, it can be used repeatedly with replacement of the ink tank 31.

FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are cross-sectional views showing an example of the embodiment of the liquid applicator. The liquid applicator D of the present embodiment includes an applicator main body 40 having an open rear end, a cartridge type tank section 50, and a cylindrical tail plug 60. The coating solution (not shown) contained in the coating solution is composed of a coating solution component such as a manicure solution, and a layer separation component that separates the coating solution component from the coating solution component. Both the surface tension is small and the coating liquid can move freely in the tank 50. In addition, 45 is a cap.

In this set of the liquid applicator D, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the tail plug 60 is inserted from the rear end side of the force-tridge type tank portion 50. At this time, the tip opening portion 67 of the tail plug 60 comes into contact with the step portion 54 of the cartridge type tank portion 50, and the insertion of the tail plug 60 stops.

In this inserted state, the tail plug 60 is inserted into the inside of the applicator main body 40 from the rear end opening side. As a result, the concave fitting portion 65 of the tail plug 60 is formed with the convex fitting portion of the applicator body 40 while the outer peripheral surface on each slit 64 narrows the width of the slit 64 with an appropriate tightening margin.

In addition to being fitted and fixed to 42, the opening of the inner tip shaft 53 of the cartridge type tank portion 50 is inserted into the pipe member 43 of the applicator body 40, and the setting is completed. Next, a method of using the liquid applicator D thus set will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, the cartridge type tank portion 50 is slidable in the axial direction with respect to the pipe portion 43, and when the rear end of the tank portion 50 is pressed forward, the tank portion 50 The valve body 52 is opened, and the application liquid in the tank 50 flows into the pipe member 43 through the valve body 52 and is supplied to the brush member 41a.

When the pressing against the rear end of the tank portion 50 is released, the tank portion 50 retreats with respect to the pipe member 53 by the valve spring 52 incorporated in the valve member 52 to close the valve member 52, and at the same time, When the tank section 50 is pressed (knocked) by the step section 54 or an inadvertent force is applied to the tank section 50, the tank section 50 slides to the tail plug 60 side, and the tank section 50 is moved to the tank section 50. In order to prevent the valve element 52 incorporated into the pipe member 43 from falling off from the pipe member 43, the valve element 52 comes into contact with the tip opening 67 of the tail plug 60 and stops.

By repeating the pressing operation, the liquid applicator D of the present embodiment supplies a required amount of the application liquid to the brush member 41a for use.

The coating liquid component contained in the tank portion 50 is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a liquid cosmetic such as a manicure liquid, a liquid cleaning agent, a liquid drug, and the like.

In addition, the layer separation component contained together with the coating liquid component in the tank section 50 must have a lower specific gravity and lower surface tension than the coating liquid component, and must allow the coating liquid to move freely in the tank. In addition, even if the coating liquid component is completely consumed by coating and the coating concentration is significantly reduced, the amount of the layer separation component still required to accommodate the layer separation component in the tank 50 is required.

The layer separation component to be the required amount is not particularly limited as long as the specific gravity and the surface tension are both smaller than the coating solution component and the coating solution has a characteristic that the coating solution can move freely in the tank. Instead, for example, various layer separation components having the characteristics shown in the above-described embodiment of the marking pen can be used. The liquid applicator D of the present embodiment configured as described above has the same operation and effect as the above-described writing instrument C, and When the layer separation component flows out of the brush member 41a, that is, when the coating drawing line changes from the coating solution component to the layer separation component having the above characteristics, the coating solution in the tank 50 is completely consumed. It will notify the exchange (sign) of the tank 50.

To replace the cartridge type tank 50, remove the tail plug 60 from the applicator body 40 by releasing the fitting, then remove the tank 50, and replace the new tank with the above. If set according to the setting method, it can be easily replaced.

In a writing instrument or a liquid applicator having a force-trick type ink tank section or the like for accommodating the above-mentioned ink or application liquid configured as described above, the ink or the application liquid contained in the tank section is an ink component or a manicure. A coating solution component such as a liquid, and a layer separation component that separates the layer from the ink component or the coating solution component. The layer separation component has a lower specific gravity and a lower surface tension than the ink component or the coating solution component. In addition, by allowing the coating liquid to move freely in the tank portion, it is possible to easily and easily confirm the target ink or the remaining amount of the coating liquid. The configuration other than the layer separation component is not particularly limited.

Further, as the writing implement having the ink cartridge unit of the cartridge type of the above embodiment, for example, it can be applied to a marking pen such as a sign pen, a ball-point pen, a marker for an underline and a fountain pen having a cartridge type ink tank unit. Further, the present invention can be applied to a liquid applicator for various uses including a tank portion containing a cartridge type application liquid. Examples Next, the present invention will be described in more detail based on examples and comparative examples, but the present invention is not limited to the following examples. Examples 1 to 7 and Comparative Examples 1 to 5 are Examples and Comparative Examples of a direct liquid writing instrument, and Examples 8 and 6 are Writing Instruments having a cartridge type ink tank section. Examples and Comparative Examples.

(Example 1)

As shown in Fig. 1, the ink tank used had a smooth surface with no ribs or other shapes and a 2.0 cc internal volume, as shown in Fig. 1.

The material used was polypropylene (PP) with a surface tension of 32 dyn / cm (at at 25).

Ink composition

(1) Ink component composition (% by weight) Purified water 55.0

Propylene dalicol 17.0

Glycerin 5.0

Preservative (1,2-benzisothiazoline-3_one) 0.3

Resin (acrylic emulsion) 7.0

Dispersant (styrene-acrylic dispersion resin) 0.7

Carbon black 15.0

Surface tension 35 d y n / cm (at 25 ° C)

Specific gravity 1.07 (at 25 ° C)

Viscosity 4.5 mPas · at (25)

(2) Sun (KF 995; manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) was used as the layer separation component,

Surface tension 17.8 dyn / cm (at 25 ° C) Specific gravity 0.956 (at 25 ° C)

Viscosity 3.8mPas (at 25 ° C)

Fill the ink tank with 1.5 inks of the above ink component (: and 0.1 lcc of the layer separation component) Then, the visible part was completely covered with the ink component. This was assembled into a writing instrument as shown in Fig. 1 and a visibility test was performed by the following method. [Visibility test]

As a test method of visibility, cover the visible area with the ink component with the pen point downward. Next, the pen tip is turned upward so that the ink component is positioned below the visible part. At this time, the visibility is measured by measuring the time until the ink breaks at the visible part and the remaining amount of the ink can be confirmed. Was evaluated. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

(Example 2)

The ink tank used had an inner volume of 2.0 cc and had a smooth surface without ribs or the like at the visible portion inside the ink tank as shown in Fig. 1.

The material used was polypropylene with a surface tension of 32 dynZcm (at 25 ° C).

Ink composition

(1) Ink component composition (% by weight)

Propylene dalycol monomethyl ether 80.0

Resin (Alkyl phenol resin) 7.0

Dye (black) 13.0

Surface tension 24 d y η, cm (at 25 ° C)

Specific gravity 0.950 (at 25 ° C)

Viscosity 4.7mPas (at 25 ° C)

(2) Dimethyl silicone oil (KF 96-10; manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) was used as a layer separation component.

Surface tension 20.0 dyn / cm (at 25 ° C) Specific gravity 0.940 (at 25 ° C)

Viscosity 9.4 mPas (at 25 ° C)

Fill the ink tank with 1.5 (0.5 lcc of the above ink component Then, the visible part was completely covered with the ink component. This was assembled into a writing instrument as shown in FIG. 1 and a visibility test was performed in the same manner as in the method of Example 1 above. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

(Example 3)

The ink tank used had an inner volume of 2.0 cc and had a smooth surface with no ribs or other shapes in the visible part inside the ink tank as shown in Fig. 2.

The material used was polypropylene with a surface tension of 32 dyn / cm (at 2 ° C).

Ink composition

(1) Ink component composition (% by weight)

Purified water 55.0

Propylene dalicol 1 7.0

Glycerin 5.0

Preservative (1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one) 0.3

Fat (acrylic emulsion) 7.0

Dispersant (styrene-acrylic dispersion resin) 0.7

Carbon black 15.0

Surface tension 35 dyn / cm (at 25 ° C)

Specific gravity 1.0 7 (at 25 ° C)

Viscosity 4.5 mPas (at 25 ° C)

(2) As a layer separation component, α-olefin olefin (hydrocarbon oil, SHF-20, manufactured by Mobil) was used.

Surface tension 27.2 dy nZcm (at 25 ° C) Specific gravity 0.80 (at 25 ° C)

Viscosity 6.5mPas (at 40 ° C)

Fill the ink tank with 1.5 of the above ink components and 0.1 lcc of the layer separation component Then, the visible part was completely covered with the coloring component. This was assembled into a writing instrument as shown in FIG. 2 and a visibility test was performed in the same manner as in the method of Example 1 above. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

(Example 4)

Ink composition

Component composition (% by weight) Purified water 55.0

Propylene dalycol .7.0

Glycerin 5, 0

Preservative (1,2-benzisothiazoline-3-one) 0.3

Resin (acrylic emulsion) 7.0

Dispersant (styrene-acrylic dispersion resin) 0.7

Carbon black 5.0

Surface tension 35 d y nZcm (at 25 ° C)

Specific gravity 1.07 (at 25 ° C)

Viscosity 4.5mPa a-s (at 25 ° C)

(2) Layer separation component composition (wt%) α-refined oligomer 98.0

(Hydrocarbon oil, SHF-20, manufactured by Mobile)

Dimethyl silicone oil 2.0

(KF 96- 10,000; manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.)

Surface tension 22.0 dyn / cm (at 25 ° C) Specific gravity 0.805 (at 25 ° C)

Viscosity 6. OmP as (at 25 ° C)

The ink tank was filled with 1.5 cc of the above-mentioned ink component and 0.1 cc of the layer separation component composed of the above two components so that the visible part was completely covered with the ink component. This was assembled into a writing instrument as shown in FIG. 1, and a visibility test was performed in the same manner as in the method of Example 1 above. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

(Example 5)

As shown in Fig. 1, the ink tank used had a smooth surface with no ribs or other shapes inside the ink tank as shown in Fig. 1, and had an internal volume of 2.0 cc.

Ink composition

(1) Ink component composition (% by weight) Propylene dalicol monomethyl ether 80.0

Resin (alkylphenol resin) 7.0

Dye (black) 13.0

Surface tension 24dyru cm (at 25 ° C)

0 950 (at 25 ° C)

Viscosity 47 mPas (at 25 ° C)

(2) Composition of layer separation components (% by weight) Liquid paraffin 99.0 (Reagent 1st grade, manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.)

Dimethyl silicone oil 1.0

(KF 96-50,000; manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.)

Surface tension 21.9 dyn cm (at 25 ° C) Specific gravity 0.990 (at 25 ° C) Viscosity 1 1 OmPas (at 25 ° C) Fill an ink tank with 1.5 cc of the above ink component and 0.1 cc of a layer separation component consisting of the above two components, and make sure that the visible area is completely ink component To be covered. This was assembled into a writing instrument as shown in FIG. 1 and a visibility test was performed in the same manner as in the method of Example 1 above. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

(Example 6)

The ink tank used had an inner volume of 2.0 cc and had a smooth surface with no ribs or other shapes in the visible area inside the ink tank as shown in Fig. 1.

The material was made of polypropylene (PP) that did not contain antioxidants, photodeterioration inhibitors, or antistatic agents, and had a surface tension of 28 dynZcm (at 25 ° C).

Ink composition

(1) Ink component composition (% by weight) Purified water 55.0

Propylene dalicol 17.0 Glycerin 5.0 Preservative (1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one) 0.3

Resin (acrylic emulsion) 7.0 Dispersant (styrene-acrylic resin) 0.7 Ripbon black 15.0 Surface tension 35 dyn / cm (at 25 ° C) Specific gravity 1.07 (at 25 ° C) )

Viscosity 4.5 mPas (at 25 ° C)

(2) 100% by weight of liquid paraffin (first-class reagent, manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) was used as a layer separation component.

Surface tension 30.5 dy nZcm (at 25 ° C) Specific gravity 0.870 (at 25 ° C)

Viscosity 105mP a · s (at at 25)

The ink tank was filled with 1.5 components of the ink component and 0.1 lcc of the layer separation component so that the visible portion was completely covered with the coloring component. This was assembled into a writing instrument as shown in FIG. 1 and a visibility test was performed in the same manner as in the method of Example 1 above. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

(Comparative Example 1)

In Example 1 described above, a writing instrument excluding the layer separation component was assembled, and a visibility test was performed in the same manner as in the method of Example 1 above. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

(Comparative Example 2)

In Example 2 described above, a writing instrument excluding the layer separation component was assembled, and a visibility test was performed in the same manner as in the method of Example 1 above. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

(Comparative Example 3)

In Example 3 described above, a writing instrument excluding the layer separation component was assembled, and a visibility test was performed in the same manner as in the method of Example 1 above. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

(Comparative Example 4)

The ink tank used had an inner volume of 2.0 cc and had a smooth surface without ribs or other shapes at the visible part inside the ink tank as shown in Fig. 1.

The material is a polypropylene (PP) coated on the surface of the visible part inside the ink tank with a fluororesin (fluorine coating agent: FC-722 manufactured by Sumitomo 3LEM) with a surface tension of 12 dyn cm (at 25 ° C) was used.

The same ink composition as in Example 3 was used. That is, the surface tension is 35 dyn / cm (at 25 ° C), the specific gravity is 1.07 (at 25 ° C), and the viscosity is 4.5 mPa-s (at 25 ° C).

The ink tank was filled with 1.5 cc of the above ink component so that the visible part was completely covered with the coloring component. This was assembled into a writing instrument as shown in FIG. A visibility test was performed in the same manner as in the above method. The results are shown in Table 1 below. (Comparative Example 5)

The material is polypropylene (PP) coated on the surface of the visible part inside the ink tank with a fluororesin (fluorine coating agent: FLORAD FC-722 manufactured by Sumitomo Suriname) with a surface tension of 12 dynZcm (at 25 ° C ) Was used.

The same ink composition as in Example 2 was used. That is, the surface tension is 24 dynZcm (at 25), the specific gravity is 0.950 (at 25 ° C), and the viscosity is 4.7 mPa · s (at 25 ° C).

The ink tank was filled with 1.5 cc of the above-mentioned ink component so that the visible part was completely covered with the colored component. This was assembled into a writing instrument as shown in FIG. 1 and a visibility test was performed in the same manner as in the method of Example 1 above. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

(Comparative Example 6)

In Example 6 described above, a writing instrument excluding the layer separation component was assembled, and a visibility test was performed in the same manner as in the method of Example 1 above. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

Time until the remaining amount of light can be confirmed Example 1 Within 1 second

Example 2 Within 1 second

Example 3 Within 1 second

Example 4 Within 1 second

Example 5 Within 3 seconds

Example 6 Within 5 seconds

Comparative Example 1 5 minutes or more

Comparative Example 2 20 minutes or more

Comparative Example 3 5 minutes or more

Comparative Example 4 5 minutes or more * 1

Comparative Example 5 20 minutes or more * 1

Comparative Example 6 1 min or more

* 1: In both cases, the initial time was less than 5 seconds, but the coating film detached from the inner surface of the ink tank over time, and the effect disappeared. Natsuta As is clear from the results in Table 1 above, the direct liquid writing implements containing the phase separation component of Examples 1 to 6 according to the present invention are the direct liquid type writing tools containing no phase separation component of Comparative Examples 1 to 6. It was found that the visibility of the remaining amount of the ink was extremely superior to that of the marker.

Looking at the examples individually, Examples 1 to 6 show that the ink in the ink tank is composed of an ink component and a layer separation component that separates the ink component from the ink component. Since both the specific gravity and the surface tension are small and the ink can move freely in the ink tank, it can be seen that the visibility of the remaining ink amount is extremely excellent. Considering further, Examples 1 to 5 show that the surface tension of the layer separation component is smaller than the surface tension of the visible portion for confirming the remaining amount of ink in the shaft portion also serving as the ink sink. The surface tension of the layer separation component is larger than the surface tension of the viewing portion for confirming the remaining amount of ink in the shaft portion also serving as the ink tank, and in each case, the object of the present invention is achieved. You can see that.

In contrast, Comparative Examples 1 to 6 are direct liquid writing instruments that do not contain a layer separation component. In particular, Comparative Examples 4 and 5 further coat the surface of the visible part inside the ink tank with a fluorine resin. In these cases, the initial time was less than 5 seconds, but over time (after leaving for 5 days), the coating film detached from the inner surface of the ink tank, and the effect disappeared. It took 5 minutes or more in Comparative Example 4 and 20 minutes or more in Comparative Example 5 until it could be confirmed.

(Example 7 and Comparative Example 7)

In Example 7, a water-based ink having the following composition (specific gravity: 0.7 to 25 ° C.) was used as an ink component.

(Ink ingredient composition)

Colored resin emulsion toner (yellow) 50.0% by weight

(Colored emulsion particle size: 0.5 x m)

Purified water 29.5% by weight Glycerin 20.0% by weight Preservative 0.5% by weight Surface tension 35 dynZcm (at 25)

Specific gravity 1.07 (at 25)

Viscosity 5mP a · s (at 25)

(Layer separation component)

Decamethylcyclopentene siloxane (KF 995; manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) was used.

Surface tension 17.8 dyn / cm (at 25 ° C) Specific gravity 0.956 (at 25 ° C)

Viscosity 3.8mPa-s (at 25 ° C)

As Comparative Example 7, a test was conducted by the following method using the same ink as in Example 7 but not containing silicone oil.

The writing instrument shown in Fig. 6 was used for this test. The writing implement E includes an ink tank 70 that also serves as a shaft, which serves as a cartridge. The ink tank 70 is detachably attached to the main body 71 via a screwing portion 72. The ink 73 stored in the ink sink 70 is led out to the pen core 75 via the relay core 74. In addition, 76 is one member of the collector.

(Test method)

The ink cartridge part 70 of the ink cartridge type is filled with the ink component of the above composition and the above layer separation component 2. O cc and 0.2 cc, respectively, and the ink in the ink tank part 70 is completely consumed and the writing line is drawn. When the writing was carried out until it was faded, it was replaced with a new ink tank cartridge / shaft filled with the ink component and the layer separation component of the above composition, and the writing was performed again. It was compared with the concentration. This operation was repeated five times.

From the above test results, it can be seen that, even when the ink tank cartridge was replaced five times, the writing line density was not completely reduced even when the layer separation component of Example 7 was filled together with the ink component. In contrast to Comparative Example 7, where the layer separation component was not filled together with the ink component in Comparative Example 7, the writing line density was already reduced from the second time and markedly increased with the number of ink tank cartridge replacements, etc. The concentration was reduced. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, according to the present invention, there is provided a writing instrument having a direct liquid type writing instrument and a cartridge type ink tank which is extremely excellent in visibility of the remaining ink amount. According to the writing implement of the present invention, the ink tank contains not only the conventional ink component but also the specific gravity and the surface tension smaller than the ink component and the layer separation component which separates the ink component from the ink component. Therefore, a writing instrument with excellent productivity and economy can be provided.

Furthermore, in a writing instrument equipped with a cartridge type ink tank, the cartridge in the ink tank can be replaced any number of times, and even if the ink component is completely consumed, the inside of the pen tip such as a pen core is filled with a layer separation component. In addition, when the ink component is completely consumed, the writing line changes from the ink component to the liquid of the above-mentioned layer separation component. Become.

Furthermore, according to the liquid applicator of the present invention, it is possible to reliably visually confirm the replacement time of the cartridge type tank portion, and to maintain the original flow rate of the coating solution even when replacing the tank portion with a new tank portion. Become.

Claims

The scope of the claims

1. In a writing instrument having an ink tank portion for storing ink, the ink in the ink tank portion includes an ink component and a layer separation component that separates the ink component from the ink component, and the layer separation component has a specific gravity higher than that of the ink component. A writing implement characterized by having a low surface tension and allowing the ink to move freely within the ink ink portion.

2. The writing implement according to claim 1, wherein said writing implement is a direct liquid type writing implement having a visual recognition part for confirming the remaining amount of ink on a shaft part also serving as an ink tank part.

3. The writing implement according to claim 1, wherein said writing implement is a writing implement having a force-trigger type ink tank for accommodating the ink.

4. The writing implement according to claim 2, wherein the surface tension of the layer separation component is smaller than the surface tension of the viewing part for confirming the remaining amount of ink in the shaft part also serving as the ink tank.

5. The writing implement according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the viscosity of the layer separation component is 100 000 11 & 's or less as compared to 25.

6. The writing implement according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the viscosity of the ink component is 10 OmPa · s or less at 25 ° C.

7. In a liquid applicator provided with a cartridge-type tank for storing a coating liquid, the coating liquid in the tank comprises a coating liquid component and a layer separation component for layer-separating the coating liquid component. A liquid applicator characterized in that the components are smaller in specific gravity and surface tension than the coating liquid components, and the coating liquid can move freely in the tank.