JP5458864B2 - Liquid container - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a liquid container that supplies liquid to a liquid ejecting apparatus.

  A liquid ejecting apparatus such as an ink jet recording apparatus, an ink jet textile printing apparatus, or a micro dispenser receives a liquid such as ink from a liquid container and ejects the liquid. The liquid container (also referred to as “liquid container”) includes a liquid storage chamber that stores a liquid and a liquid detection device that is used to detect the remaining amount of ink in the liquid container. The liquid storage chamber has a discharge port. The liquid detection device includes a liquid inflow port connected to the discharge port, a liquid detection chamber through which the liquid passes, and a liquid outflow port through which the liquid flows to the liquid ejecting device side.

JP 2007-210330 A

  In the conventional liquid container, the liquid storage chamber and the liquid detection device are separately removable, and the discharge port and the liquid inflow port are fitted and connected. For this reason, in addition to the liquid outlet, air (bubbles) is mixed into the liquid of the liquid container from the outside via the connection between the outlet of the liquid storage chamber and the liquid inlet of the liquid detection device. In some cases, the liquid container has a problem that the liquid evaporates. In particular, when bubbles are mixed in the liquid stored in the liquid container, problems such as erroneous detection of the liquid detection device and deterioration of the liquid may occur in the liquid container.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique for suppressing the occurrence of problems in the liquid container such as air mixed into the liquid stored in the liquid container.

SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is to solve at least a part of the problems described above, and the invention can be implemented as the following forms or application examples.
[Form 1]
A liquid container for supplying a liquid to a liquid ejecting apparatus,
A liquid container capable of containing a liquid;
A liquid supply unit having one end connected to the liquid storage unit and the other end opening toward the outside, and a liquid supply unit configured to circulate liquid from the liquid storage unit to the liquid ejection device; Prepared,
The liquid supply unit has a liquid detection unit used for detecting the amount of liquid stored in the liquid storage unit,
The liquid detector is
A liquid detection chamber for storing the liquid supplied from the liquid storage unit;
A communication channel that communicates with the liquid detection chamber, and a sensor unit that varies an output state of a detection signal according to the amount of liquid stored in the liquid storage unit,
The liquid supply unit is
A first flow path in which the liquid detection chamber is not disposed in the middle, and allows the liquid in the liquid storage portion to flow to the liquid ejecting apparatus without passing through the liquid detection chamber;
The liquid detection chamber is disposed in the middle, and has a second flow path that passes through the liquid detection chamber and distributes the liquid in the liquid storage portion to the liquid ejecting apparatus,
The first flow path and the second flow path are formed in parallel.
Liquid container.
According to the liquid container of this aspect, by providing the liquid detection unit in the liquid supply unit itself, a connection unit provided when the liquid supply unit and the liquid detection unit are separated is not formed. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of defects in the liquid container such as air (gas) mixed into the liquid stored in the liquid container from the outside.
[Form 2]
The liquid container according to the first aspect,
In the flow direction of the liquid when supplying the liquid to the liquid ejecting apparatus,
A check valve that suppresses the flow of liquid from the opening toward the liquid detection chamber is provided in a downstream flow path that is located downstream of the liquid detection chamber among the flow paths of the liquid supply unit. The liquid container.
[Form 3]
The liquid container according to the first aspect,
The second flow path is a downstream communication flow path that connects the liquid detection chamber and the first flow path, and when the liquid in the liquid container is supplied to the liquid ejecting apparatus, A downstream communication channel that causes the liquid that has flowed into the second channel from the first channel or the liquid container to flow out to the first channel;
The sensor unit is provided in contact with the liquid detection chamber,
In the state where the liquid container is mounted on the liquid ejecting apparatus and the liquid ejecting apparatus is used, the sensor unit is provided in the liquid detection chamber so as to be positioned below the downstream communication channel. A liquid container.
[Form 4]
The liquid container according to any one of Forms 1 to 3,
The sensor unit is
A diaphragm constituting a part of the communication channel;
A piezoelectric element that applies a vibration to the diaphragm and outputs a waveform signal corresponding to a residual vibration waveform associated with the vibration;
Liquid container.
[Form 5]
The liquid container according to Form 4 that is dependent on Form 2,
The check valve has a valve body and a valve seat,
The liquid detection chamber is
Having an opening formed in a surface facing the sensor unit;
The liquid detection unit further includes
A flexible portion that closes the opening and deforms according to the pressure in the liquid detection chamber;
A moving member that is at least partially displaced in accordance with the deformation of the flexible portion, the moving member capable of disabling the liquid detection chamber and the communication channel of the sensor unit by displacement; Have
The liquid detection chamber and the downstream flow path communicate with each other through a through hole provided in a part of the moving member,
A liquid container in which a through hole forming portion in which the through hole is formed functions as the valve seat among the moving member.
[Form 6]
A liquid container according to the fourth aspect,
The liquid detection chamber is
Having an opening formed in a surface facing the sensor unit;
The liquid detection unit further includes
A flexible portion that closes the opening and deforms according to the pressure in the liquid detection chamber;
A moving member that is in contact with the flexible portion in the liquid detection chamber and is at least partially displaced in accordance with the deformation of the flexible portion. A movable member that can be in a communicating state;
A liquid container comprising: a spring that biases the distance between the moving member and the sensor unit to increase.
[Form 7]
A liquid container according to the fourth aspect,
The liquid storage chamber is
Having an opening formed in a surface facing the sensor unit;
The liquid detection unit further includes
A flexible portion that closes the opening and deforms according to the pressure in the liquid detection chamber;
A moving member that is in contact with the flexible portion in the liquid detection chamber and is at least partially displaced in accordance with the deformation of the flexible portion, and the displacement between the liquid detection chamber and the communication portion of the sensor portion is not caused by the displacement. A movable member that can be in a communicating state;
A liquid container having a spring that biases the distance between the moving member and the sensor unit to be small.
[Form 8]
The liquid container according to any one of Forms 5 to 7,
The moving member is
A fixing part fixed to the liquid detection chamber;
A liquid container comprising: a seal portion that can displace the liquid detection chamber and the communication flow path of the sensor portion by being displaced.

[Application Example 1] A liquid container for supplying a liquid to a liquid ejecting apparatus, a liquid container that can store a liquid, one end connected to the liquid container, and the other opened to the outside A liquid supply unit, wherein the liquid supply unit is configured to circulate liquid from the liquid storage unit to the liquid ejecting apparatus.
The liquid supply unit includes a liquid detection unit used for detecting the amount of liquid stored in the liquid container,
The liquid detection unit is disposed in the liquid detection chamber for storing the liquid supplied from the liquid storage unit and the liquid detection chamber, and is used for detecting the amount of liquid stored in the liquid storage body. And a sensor unit for outputting a detection signal.
According to the liquid container of Application Example 1, by providing the liquid detection unit in the liquid supply unit itself, a connection unit provided when the liquid supply unit and the liquid detection unit are separated is not formed. . Therefore, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of defects in the liquid container such as air (gas) mixed into the liquid stored in the liquid container from the outside.

Application Example 2 In the liquid container according to Application Example 1, in the liquid supply unit, the liquid detection chamber is not disposed in the middle, and the liquid storage unit does not pass through the liquid detection chamber. A first flow path through which the liquid is circulated to the liquid ejecting apparatus and the liquid detection chamber are arranged in the middle, and the liquid in the liquid container is circulated to the liquid ejecting apparatus through the liquid detection chamber. A liquid container having two flow paths.
According to the liquid container of Application Example 2, when the first flow path and the second flow path are further arranged in series (that is, one flow path is formed in the liquid supply unit, the flow path Compared to the case where the liquid detection chamber is disposed in the liquid supply section, the possibility of the air entering the sensor section can be reduced even when air enters the liquid supply section from the opening of the liquid supply section. For the second flow path, “circulate the liquid in the liquid container to the liquid ejecting apparatus” includes the meaning of indirectly circulating the liquid to the liquid ejecting apparatus. That is, it also includes the meaning that the liquid that has flowed through the second flow path flows out into the first flow path, and the liquid flows through the first flow path to the liquid ejecting apparatus.

Application Example 3 In the liquid container according to Application Example 1 or Application Example 2, in the flow direction of the liquid when supplying the liquid to the liquid ejecting apparatus, A liquid container in which a check valve that suppresses a flow of liquid from the opening toward the liquid detection chamber is provided in a downstream flow path located downstream of the liquid detection chamber.
According to the liquid container of Application Example 3, the possibility of air entering the sensor unit by the check valve can be further reduced.

Application Example 4 In the liquid container according to Application Example 2, the second channel is a downstream communication channel that connects the liquid detection chamber and the first channel, When the liquid in the liquid container is supplied to the liquid ejecting apparatus, the liquid that has flowed into the second flow path from the first flow path or the liquid storage portion flows out to the first flow path. A side communication channel, wherein the sensor unit is provided in contact with the liquid detection chamber, the liquid container is attached to the liquid ejecting apparatus, and the liquid ejecting apparatus is used in the state where the liquid ejecting apparatus is used. The liquid container, which is provided in the liquid detection chamber so that the sensor unit is positioned below the downstream communication channel.
According to the liquid container of Application Example 4, in a state where the liquid container is mounted on the liquid ejecting apparatus, even when air enters the liquid supply unit from the opening of the liquid supply unit, there is a possibility that air may enter the sensor unit. Can be further reduced.

Application Example 5 In the liquid container according to any one of Application Examples 1 to 4, the sensor unit includes a communication channel that communicates with the liquid detection chamber, and one of the communication channels. A liquid container comprising: a diaphragm that constitutes a portion; and a piezoelectric element that applies a vibration to the diaphragm and outputs a waveform signal corresponding to a residual vibration waveform associated with the vibration.
According to the liquid container of Application Example 5, the residual state of the liquid in the liquid container can be accurately detected by analyzing the waveform signal output from the piezoelectric element.

Application Example 6 The liquid container according to Application Example 5 subordinate to Application Example 3, wherein the check valve includes a valve body and a valve seat, and the liquid detection chamber includes the sensor unit. The liquid detection unit further includes a flexible part that closes the opening and deforms according to the pressure in the liquid detection chamber, and the deformation of the flexible part. A moving member that is at least partially displaced in accordance with the moving member that is capable of disengaging the liquid detection chamber and the communication flow path of the sensor unit by the displacement. The chamber and the downstream flow path communicate with each other through a through hole provided in a part of the moving member, and a through hole forming portion in which the through hole is formed is a valve of the moving member. A liquid container that functions as a seat.
According to the liquid container of Application Example 6, it is not necessary to newly use the valve seat by using the moving member of the liquid detection unit as the valve seat. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the flow of liquid from the opening to the liquid detection chamber while reducing the number of parts.

Application Example 7 In the liquid container according to Application Example 5, the liquid detection chamber has an opening formed on a surface facing the sensor unit, and the liquid detection unit further includes the A flexible portion that closes the opening and deforms in response to the pressure in the liquid detection chamber, and a moving member that contacts the flexible portion in the liquid detection chamber and at least partially displaces in accordance with the deformation of the flexible portion. In this case, the liquid detection chamber and the communication passage of the sensor unit can be disconnected from each other by displacement, and the moving member and the sensor unit are urged so that the distance between the moving member and the sensor unit is increased. A liquid container having a spring.
According to the liquid container of Application Example 7, even when the liquid is supplied from the liquid container to the liquid ejecting apparatus by sucking the liquid in the liquid container from the liquid ejecting apparatus, the piezoelectric element is By analyzing the output waveform signal, the liquid remaining state of the liquid container can be detected with high accuracy.

Application Example 8 In the liquid container according to Application Example 5, the liquid storage chamber has an opening formed in a surface facing the sensor unit, and the liquid detection unit further includes A flexible portion that closes the opening and deforms in response to the pressure in the liquid detection chamber, and a moving member that contacts the flexible portion in the liquid detection chamber and at least partially displaces in accordance with the deformation of the flexible portion. In this case, the liquid detection chamber and the communication channel of the sensor unit can be disconnected from each other by displacement, and the distance between the movement member and the sensor unit is urged to be reduced. A liquid container having a spring.
According to the liquid container of the application example 8, the waveform signal output from the piezoelectric element even when the liquid is supplied from the liquid container to the liquid ejecting apparatus by pressurizing the liquid container from the outside. By analyzing the above, it is possible to accurately detect the remaining state of the liquid in the liquid container.

[Application Example 9] The liquid container according to any one of Application Examples 6 to 8, wherein the moving member is displaced by a fixed portion fixed to the liquid detection chamber, thereby moving the moving member. A liquid container comprising: a liquid detection chamber; and a seal portion capable of bringing the communication channel of the sensor portion into a non-communication state.
According to the liquid container of Application Example 9, the moving member can be stably held in the liquid detection chamber as compared with the case where the moving member is not fixed.

  Note that the present invention can be realized in various forms, and in addition to the configuration as the liquid container described above, the present invention is realized in a mode such as a liquid ejecting apparatus including the liquid container having any one of the above-described configurations. can do.

1 is an external perspective view of an ink cartridge according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating an ink flow path provided in the liquid supply unit 20. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a liquid supply unit 20. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a liquid supply unit 20. FIG. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a liquid supply unit 20. 4 is a diagram for explaining a detailed configuration of a sensor unit 220. FIG. It is a figure which shows the AA cross section of FIG.5 (b). It is a figure for demonstrating the BB cross section of Fig.5 (a). It is a figure which shows CC cross section of Fig.5 (a). It is a figure for demonstrating the moving member 400a which concerns on 2nd Example of this invention. It is the 1st figure for demonstrating the BB cross section of FIG.10 (b). It is the 2nd figure for demonstrating the BB cross section of FIG.10 (b). It is a figure for demonstrating the moving member 400a and the non-return valve 222. FIG.

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following order.
A. First embodiment:
B. Second embodiment:
C. Variations:

A. First embodiment:
A-1: Overall Configuration of Liquid Container FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of an ink cartridge according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 shows the XYZ axes for specifying the direction. The ink cartridge 10 includes a first case 12, a second case 16, and a liquid container (also referred to as “ink pack”) 14. The ink pack 14 is housed in the second case 16, and the ink cartridge 10 is manufactured by mounting the first case 12 on the second case 16. Each of the first and second cases 12 and 16 is integrally formed by resin molding. An insertion port (not shown) is formed on the surface of the second case 16 on the Y axis positive direction side so that an ink supply needle (liquid supply needle) of a printer (liquid ejecting apparatus) can be inserted. .

  The ink pack 14 includes a liquid storage unit 18 and a liquid supply unit 20. The liquid storage unit 18 is a bag and stores ink therein. The liquid container 18 is formed of an aluminum laminated multilayer film in which an aluminum layer is laminated on a resin film layer, and has flexibility.

  One end of the liquid supply unit 20 is connected to the liquid storage unit 18. In addition, an open hole 303 that opens toward the outside is formed on the other end side of the liquid supply unit 20. The liquid supply unit 20 includes a liquid detection unit 22 used to detect the amount of ink contained in the ink pack 14 (hereinafter also referred to as “ink remaining amount”), and the ink in the ink pack 14 to the printer side. A liquid discharge channel (not shown) for discharging. The open hole 303 is sealed with a film 210 so that liquid does not leak outside before the ink cartridge 10 is mounted on the printer.

A-2. Before describing the detailed configuration of the liquid supply unit 20, for the sake of easy understanding, the configuration of the main ink channels included in the liquid supply unit 20 and the ink supply to the printer are described. The ink flow will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating an ink flow path included in the liquid supply unit 20. The direction of the arrow shown in the drawing indicates the direction of ink flow when the ink IK is supplied to the printer. Moreover, the dashed-dotted line shown in the figure has shown that each flow path is connected.

  The liquid supply unit 20 includes a liquid discharge channel 320 as a first channel and a liquid detection channel 331 as a second channel. The liquid detection channel 331 includes an upstream communication channel 340, a liquid detection chamber 305, and a downstream communication channel 324. In the liquid detection chamber 305, a sensor unit 220 used for detecting the remaining amount of ink is disposed. First, the flow of ink in the liquid detection channel 331 when supplying ink to the printer will be described. A portion of the ink that flows into the liquid discharge channel 320 from the liquid storage unit 18 (FIG. 1) via the first opening 308 branches and flows into the upstream communication channel 340. The ink that has flowed into the upstream communication channel 340 passes through the liquid detection chamber 305 and the downstream communication channel 324 in this order, and flows out to the liquid discharge channel 320. The ink flowing out from the downstream communication channel 324 to the liquid discharge channel 320 passes through the opening hole 303 and is supplied to the printer. That is, the liquid detection flow path 331 is a flow path in which the liquid detection chamber 305 is disposed in the middle, and passes through the liquid detection chamber 305 and distributes the ink in the liquid storage unit 18 to the printer. On the other hand, the liquid discharge flow path 320 is a flow path that allows the ink in the liquid storage unit 18 to flow directly to the printer without passing through the liquid detection chamber 305. Here, the downstream communication channel 324 corresponds to the downstream channel described in the means for solving the problem.

  The liquid detection channel 331 (specifically, the liquid detection chamber 305) and the liquid discharge channel 320 are formed in the liquid supply unit 20 so as to intersect on different planes. In other words, the liquid detection chamber 305 and the liquid discharge flow path 320 are three-dimensionally crossed.

A-3: Configuration of Liquid Supply Unit Next, the configuration of the liquid supply unit 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5 show XYZ axes in order to specify the direction. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid supply unit 20. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the liquid supply unit 20. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the liquid supply unit 20. 5A is a diagram of the liquid supply unit 20 viewed from the Z-axis positive direction side, and FIG. 5B is a diagram of the liquid supply unit 20 viewed from the X-axis negative direction side. In FIGS. 4 and 5, two films 210 and 500 described later are not shown.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the liquid supply unit 20 includes a supply unit main body 300, a valve mounting unit 230, a sensor unit 220, a seal unit 200, a moving member 400, a spring 221, and two films 210 and 500. And a relay terminal 246 and two check valves 222 and 232 as valve bodies. Here, the ink contained in the ink pack 14 by the supply unit main body 300 (a liquid detection chamber 305 described in detail later), the moving member 400, the flexible film 500, the spring 221, and the sensor unit 220. A liquid detection unit 22 (FIG. 1) used for detecting the amount of the liquid is configured.

  The supply unit main body 300 is integrally formed of a synthetic resin such as polyethylene, for example. The supply unit main body 300 is formed with a flow path (for example, the liquid discharge flow path 320 and the liquid detection chamber 305) through which the ink flowing from the liquid storage section 18 (FIG. 1) flows. The supply unit main body 300 includes a first main body 302 to which the liquid storage unit 18 is welded and a second main body 304 in which a liquid detection chamber 305 is formed.

  The first main body 302 is formed with a first opening 308, a second opening 306, and two protrusions 311 that protrude from the surface on which the first opening 308 is formed. A valve mounting portion 230 and a check valve 232 are mounted in the first opening 308. Further, the ink stored in the liquid storage unit 18 flows into the first opening 308 via the valve mounting unit 230. The protruding portion 311 is a member for holding the valve mounting portion 230. The second opening 306 communicates with a portion on the downstream side of a portion where the check valve 232 is disposed in a portion of the liquid discharge channel 320 described later. The second opening 306 will be described later. In this specification, “upstream side” and “downstream side” are based on the direction of ink flow when ink is supplied from the ink pack 14 to the printer.

  The valve mounting portion 230 is a member for holding the check valve 232. The valve mounting portion 230 is formed with an opening 233 and two through holes 234. As shown in FIG. 3, the valve mounting portion 230 is fixed to the supply portion main body 300 by fitting the through hole 234 into the protruding portion 311. The check valve 232 suppresses the flow of ink from the supply unit main body 300 to the liquid storage unit 18, thereby suppressing bubbles from entering the liquid storage unit 18 together with ink. Specifically, the check valve 232 that is a valve body is seated on the valve seat of the valve mounting portion 230, thereby suppressing the flow of ink from the supply portion main body 300 to the liquid storage portion 18.

  As shown in FIG. 3, when the liquid container 18 is filled with ink, cross-hatching located on the open hole 303 side from the second opening 306 is added to the outer surface portion of the first main body 302. The liquid container 18 is welded to the outer surface portion 302a. Next, ink is injected from the open hole 303 into the liquid discharge channel 320. Then, ink flows out from the second opening 306 communicating with the liquid discharge flow path 320, and the liquid container 18 is filled with ink. After the ink is filled in the liquid container 18, the liquid container 18 is welded to the outer surface portion 302 b that is single-hatched and includes the second opening 306 in the outer surface portion of the first main body 302. As a result, the second opening 306 is closed by the liquid storage unit 18. By doing so, ink can be filled into the liquid storage portion 18 even though the check valve 232 for suppressing the back flow of ink is provided in the liquid discharge flow path 320.

  In the second main body 304, a part of the liquid discharge channel 320 and the liquid detection chamber 305 are mainly formed. The liquid detection chamber 305 is an area surrounded by the second main body 304. In the liquid detection chamber 305, various members used for detecting the remaining amount of liquid in the ink pack 14 to be described later are arranged. For convenience of explanation, the surface located on the positive side in the Z-axis direction of the liquid detection chamber 305 is referred to as the upper surface and the surface located on the negative side in the Z-axis is referred to as the bottom surface.

  The upper surface of the liquid detection chamber 305 has an opening 305a. As shown in FIG. 4, a sensor placement opening 305 b for placing a sensor base 240 described later is formed on the bottom surface of the liquid detection chamber 305. The sensor arrangement opening 305 b is formed by penetrating the bottom surface member 304 b of the second main body 304. As shown in FIG. 3, a spring 221, a moving member 400, and a sensor unit 220 are disposed in the liquid detection chamber 305. Further, the flexible film 500 is adhered to the protrusion 304 c provided inside the peripheral end surface 304 a of the second main body 304 so as to close the opening 305 a of the liquid detection chamber 305.

  The moving member 400 includes a seal part 424, a spring holding part 425, and a contact part 426. The moving member 400 is disposed in the liquid detection chamber 305 so as to be displaceable in the depth direction (Z-axis vertical direction) of the liquid detection chamber 305. As shown in FIG. 3, the seal portion 424 is a member that extends in the depth direction of the liquid detection chamber 305 and can contact the sensor unit 220. The spring holding portion 425 is a substantially cylindrical portion, and holds the upper end side of the spring 221 on its inner peripheral surface. The outer shape of the contact portion 426 is substantially the same as the outer shape of the space of the liquid detection chamber 305 where the contact portion 426 is accommodated. Thereby, when the moving member 400 is disposed in the liquid detection chamber 305, it can be prevented from moving in the width direction (X-axis direction) or the length direction (Y-axis direction) of the liquid detection chamber 305. The contact portion 426 is formed with a through hole 430 that allows the liquid detection chamber 305 and the downstream communication channel 324 (FIG. 2) to communicate with each other. A check valve 222, which is a valve body, is provided in the downstream communication channel 324. The check valve 222 suppresses the flow of ink from the liquid discharge channel 320 toward the liquid detection chamber 305 via the downstream communication channel 324. In other words, the check valve 222 suppresses the flow of ink from the open hole 303 (FIG. 1) to the liquid detection chamber 305 (the flow opposite to the flow when supplying ink to the printer). That is, the check valve 222, which is a valve body, abuts (sits) on the abutting portion 426 of the moving member 400 and closes the through hole 430 to close the valve (FIG. 3).

  The spring 221 is held by a spring holding portion 310 that protrudes from the bottom surface of the liquid detection chamber 305 to the upper surface side, and a spring holding portion 425 of the moving member 400, so that the distance between the sensor unit 220 and the seal portion 424 increases. Energize. That is, the spring 221 biases both in the direction in which the volume of the liquid detection chamber 305 increases.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the sensor unit 220 includes a metal (stainless steel) sensor base 240, a resin film 250, and a sensor unit 260 attached to one surface (back surface) of the sensor base 240. . The sensor base 240 is accommodated in a sensor arrangement opening 305 b (FIG. 4) formed on the bottom surface of the liquid detection chamber 305. The sensor base 240 is attached to the liquid detection chamber 305 by covering the periphery of the sensor placement opening 305 b and the sensor base 240 with the film 250. An opening that is slightly larger than the outer shape of the sensor unit 260 is formed at the center of the film 250, and the sensor unit 260 is disposed in the opening and fixed to the sensor base 240. The sensor base 240 is formed with two through holes 240a and 240b penetrating in the thickness direction (Z-axis vertical direction).

  The sensor unit 260 includes a sensor cavity (also referred to as “communication flow path”) 262 through which ink flows in and out of the liquid detection chamber 305, a diaphragm 266 (FIG. 6), and a piezoelectric element 268 (FIG. 6). A detection signal used for detecting the remaining amount of ink in the ink pack 14 is output on the printer side. When each component is assembled as the sensor unit 220, the sensor cavity 262 and the liquid detection chamber 305 are communicated with each other through the through holes 240a and 240b.

  The relay terminal 246 electrically connects the sensor unit 260 and a circuit board (not shown) attached to the second case 16 (FIG. 1). As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5B, the relay terminal 246 is held by a total of four relay terminal holding portions 309 a and 309 b protruding from the bottom surface and the side surface of the second main body portion 304. The signal output from the sensor unit 260 is transmitted to the control unit mounted on the printer via the relay terminal 246 and the circuit board, and the control unit detects the remaining amount of liquid in the ink pack 14.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the seal unit 200 includes a seal member 212, a valve member 214, and a compression coil spring 216, and the members 212, 214, and 216 are liquids in this order in order from the opening hole 303. It is arranged in the discharge channel 320. The seal member 212 is a cylindrical member. When the ink supply needle of the printer is inserted into the liquid discharge channel 320, the seal member 212 is interposed between the inner wall of the liquid discharge channel 320 and the outer peripheral surface of the ink supply needle. Seal between the two so that there is no gap. The valve member 214 comes into contact with the seal member 212 when the ink cartridge 10 (FIG. 1) is not attached to the printer (when the ink supply needle is not inserted into the liquid discharge channel 320). As a result, the surface on one end side of the valve member 214 (the surface on the Y axis positive direction side) closes the opening of the seal member 212. The compression coil spring 216 urges the valve member 214 in a direction in which the valve member 214 is brought into contact with the seal member 212. When the ink supply needle of the printer is inserted into the liquid discharge channel 320 from the opening hole 303, the ink supply needle pushes the valve member 214 away from the seal member 212. Then, a gap is generated between the valve member 214 and the seal member 212, and ink is supplied from the gap to the ink supply needle. When the ink cartridge 10 is manufactured, the opening 303 is closed by the film 210. The film 210 is broken by the ink supply needle when the ink cartridge 10 is mounted on the printer. The ink cartridge 10 (FIG. 1) is mounted on the printer so that the X-axis positive direction side shown in FIG. 3 is the lower side and the X-axis negative direction side is the upper side.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a detailed configuration of the sensor unit 220. FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the sensor unit 220, and the film 250 (FIG. 3) is omitted for convenience of illustration. FIG. 6B is a view showing a 4-4 cross section of FIG. FIG. 6B shows a moving member 400 arranged in the liquid detection chamber 305, a spring 221, a bottom surface 305c of the liquid detection chamber 305, and a flexible film 500 for easy understanding. Shown with dotted lines.

  In the sensor unit 220 shown in FIG. 6A, the sensor unit 260 is attached to the back surface (surface on the Z-axis negative direction side) of the sensor base 240. As shown in FIG. 6B, the sensor unit 260 mainly includes a ceramic main body 264, a diaphragm 266, and a piezoelectric element 268. The diaphragm 266 is disposed on a surface (a surface having an opening) facing the surface on which the sensor base 240 is disposed, of the upper and lower surfaces of the main body 264. A sensor cavity 262 is formed by the diaphragm 266 and the main body 264. The sensor cavity 262 communicates with the liquid detection chamber 305 through the through holes 240a and 240b.

  When a predetermined drive signal is applied to the piezoelectric element 268, the diaphragm 266 starts free vibration after the piezoelectric element 268 is excited as a actuator for a predetermined time. Due to the free vibration of the diaphragm 266, a back electromotive force is generated in the piezoelectric element 268, and a waveform representing the back electromotive force is output as a detection signal (also referred to as a “waveform signal”) to the control unit of the printer.

  Here, the state (amplitude and frequency) of the waveform signal changes as the communication state between the sensor cavity 262 and the liquid detection chamber 305 changes. For example, when the moving member 400 comes into contact with the sensor base 240 and the sensor cavity 262 and the liquid detection chamber 305 are not in communication with each other, the vibration plate 266 hardly vibrates even when a drive signal is applied to the piezoelectric element 268. A linear waveform without fluctuation is output as the detection signal. On the other hand, when the moving member 400 is separated from the sensor base 240 and the sensor cavity 262 and the liquid detection chamber 305 are in communication with each other, when a drive signal is applied to the piezoelectric element 268, the diaphragm 266 vibrates and fluctuates as a detection signal. A certain waveform is output. That is, the sensor unit 260 changes the output state of the detection signal based on the state of the ink in the sensor cavity 262 (whether the ink in the sensor cavity 262 is in communication with the liquid detection chamber 305).

  As shown in FIG. 6B, the moving member 400 (specifically, the seal portion 424) and the sensor base 240 are separated from each other immediately after the ink pack 14 is filled with ink. If the amount of ink stored in the liquid storage unit 18 (FIG. 1) is sufficient, even if ink is supplied from the liquid storage unit 18 to the printer via the liquid detection chamber 305 by suction from the printer, Little negative pressure is generated in the liquid detection chamber 305. For this reason, the moving member 400 and the sensor base 240 are kept in a separated state by the urging force of the spring 221 (the force applied by the spring 221 to the moving member 400 in the direction of separating the moving member 400 and the sensor base 240). On the other hand, when the amount of ink stored in the liquid storage unit 18 is reduced, a negative pressure (a force for bringing the moving member 400 and the sensor base 240 close to each other) is generated in the liquid detection chamber 305 by suction from the printer. The absolute value of the negative pressure increases as the amount of ink stored in the liquid storage unit 18 decreases. Thereby, the separation distance between the moving member 400 and the sensor base 240 is gradually reduced, and finally the moving member 400 (specifically, the seal portion 424) abuts on the sensor base 240 so as to block the through holes 240a and 240b. . That is, the sensor cavity 262 and the liquid detection chamber 305 are not in communication. From the above, when the sensor unit 260 outputs a detection signal without fluctuation, it can be determined that almost no ink is stored in the liquid storage unit 18, and when a detection signal with fluctuation is output, the ink is supplied to the printer. It can be determined that sufficient ink for supplying the liquid is stored in the liquid storage unit 18.

  Next, the detailed structure of the liquid supply unit 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 7 is a view showing an AA cross section of FIG. FIG. 8 is a view for explaining a BB cross section of FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a CC cross section of FIG. 8A is a view showing the outer shape of the moving member 400 arranged in FIG. 8B, and FIG. 8B is a view showing a BB cross section of FIG. 5C. is there. In FIG. 8B, the illustration of the seal unit 200 (FIG. 2) is omitted for convenience of illustration.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, the supply unit main body 300 is formed with a liquid discharge channel 320 and a liquid detection channel 331. The liquid detection channel 331 includes an upstream communication channel 340 (FIG. 7), a liquid detection chamber 305 (FIGS. 7 and 8B), and a downstream communication channel 324 (FIGS. 8B and 9). ). Further, as shown in FIG. 8B, the liquid detection chamber 22 is configured by arranging the sensor unit 220, the spring 221, the moving member 400, and the flexible film 500 in the liquid detection chamber 305. .

  In this way, by providing the liquid detection unit 22 in the liquid supply unit 20 itself, a connection unit provided when the liquid supply unit 20 and the liquid detection unit 22 are detachable separate bodies is formed. There is no. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that gas (air) is mixed into the ink stored in the ink pack 14 from the outside. Thereby, the situation which causes the false detection of the sensor part 260 can be reduced. Specifically, for example, when a bubble enters the sensor cavity 262, the state of the waveform signal output from the piezoelectric element 268 changes and erroneous detection occurs. In addition, since the possibility of bubbles being mixed into the ink stored in the ink pack 14 can be reduced, the situation in which the printer (specifically, the recording head) cannot stably eject ink can be reduced. In this way, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of problems in the ink pack 14 caused by the bubbles mixed in the ink stored in the ink pack 14.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the liquid discharge channel 320 includes a central channel 320a, a groove channel 320b, and a communication channel 320c. As shown in FIG. 8, the central flow path 320a is a flow path having a substantially circular cross section. The groove channel 320b is two channels having a substantially rectangular channel cross section formed at the periphery of the central channel. As shown in FIG. 7, the communication flow path 320 c is a flow path that connects the central flow path 320 a and the liquid storage unit 18. The communication flow path 320 c is provided with a check valve 232 for suppressing the flow of ink from the liquid discharge flow path 320 to the liquid storage unit 18. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the bubbles that have entered the liquid discharge channel 320 from the outside via the open hole 303 from flowing into the liquid storage unit 18. Through holes H1 and H2 are formed in the member forming the supply unit main body 300 located between the communication flow path 320c and the upstream communication flow path 340 and between the communication flow path 320c and the central flow path 320a. The ink can pass through. As shown in FIG. 7, the liquid discharge channel 320 and the liquid detection channel 331 are formed in the supply unit main body 300 so as to be in parallel.

  Thus, since the liquid discharge flow path 320 and the liquid detection flow path 331 are formed in parallel, compared with the case where the liquid discharge flow path 320 and the liquid detection flow path 331 are formed in series, Even when gas is mixed into the liquid supply unit 20 from the open hole 303, the possibility that the bubbles enter the sensor unit 260 can be further reduced.

  In addition, since the pressure of the ink positioned in the liquid detection chamber 305 is affected by the flow velocity of the ink flowing in the liquid detection chamber 305, the piezoelectric element 268 is used for detecting the remaining amount of ink as in the present embodiment. It is preferable to apply the drive signal to the piezoelectric element 268 after stopping the ink flow in the liquid detection chamber 305. When a predetermined amount of ink is supplied to the printer via the two flow paths 320 and 331 formed in parallel, the flow of ink in the liquid detection flow path 331 when the supply of ink to the printer is stopped. The stopping time is shorter than when the two flow paths 320 and 331 are formed in series. Therefore, after the ink flow is stopped, the drive signal is applied to the piezoelectric element 268, and the time required for detection when the printer detects the remaining amount of ink in the ink pack 14 can be shortened.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8B, the sensor unit 220 (sensor unit 260) is arranged on the upstream side of the liquid detection chamber 305, and the sensor unit 260 and the downstream communication channel 324 are connected to the liquid discharge channel. It is in a positional relationship across 320.

  As shown in FIG. 8B, the liquid detection chamber 305 crosses the liquid discharge channel 320 three-dimensionally. That is, the liquid detection chamber 305 and the liquid discharge flow path 320 are formed so as to partially overlap in the thickness direction (Z-axis direction) of the liquid supply unit 20. As a result, even when the liquid detection channel 331 is provided in the liquid supply unit 20, the volume of the liquid detection chamber 305 (a volume that can accommodate the moving member 400) is sufficiently secured, and the supply unit main body 300 has a sufficient capacity. Compactness can be achieved.

  Further, by making the liquid detection chamber 305 and the liquid discharge channel 320 three-dimensionally intersect, the channel length of the liquid detection chamber 305 can be increased while the liquid supply unit 20 is made compact. Accordingly, the sensor unit 220 is arranged on the upstream side of the liquid detection chamber 305 (for example, in the vicinity of the connection point between the upstream communication channel 340 and the liquid detection chamber 305), so that the liquid is passed through the downstream communication channel 324. Even if air bubbles enter the detection chamber 305, the intrusion of air bubbles into the sensor unit 260 can be further reduced. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of the false detection of the sensor part 260 can further be reduced.

  Further, in a state where the ink cartridge 10 is mounted on the printer, the sensor unit 260 is disposed in the liquid detection chamber 305 so as to be positioned below the downstream communication channel 324. That is, in a state where the ink cartridge 10 is mounted on the printer, in FIG. 8B, the X axis positive direction side is the lower side, and the X axis negative direction side is the upper side. Thereby, even when bubbles that have entered through the open hole 303 enter the liquid detection chamber 305 via the downstream communication flow path 324, the possibility of bubbles reaching the sensor unit 260 can be further reduced. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of the misdetection by the bubble penetration | invasion to the sensor part 260 can be reduced further.

  As described above, by providing the liquid detection unit 22 (FIG. 1) in the liquid supply unit 20 itself, occurrence of problems of the ink pack 14 such as gas mixed into the ink stored in the ink pack 14 is reduced. be able to.

B. Second embodiment:
FIG. 10 is a first diagram for explaining the moving member 400a. FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the moving member 400a, and FIG. 10B is a view of the liquid supply unit 20 viewed from the Z axis positive direction side. The difference from the moving member 400 of the first embodiment is mainly the method of accommodating the moving member 400a in the liquid detection chamber 305 and the displacement mode of the moving member 400a. About the structure similar to the moving member 400 of 1st Example, it attaches | subjects the same code | symbol and abbreviate | omits description. Other configurations (such as the supply unit main body 300) are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 10A, the moving member 400 a has a thin portion 427. The thin portion 427 is formed with a through hole 428 penetrating in the thickness direction. The thin portion 427 is formed between the contact portion 426a and the seal portion 424. The thin portion 427 is a portion having a smaller thickness than the contact portion 426a and the seal portion 424.

  Furthermore, the outer shape of the contact portion 426a is larger than the outer shape of the contact portion 426 of the first embodiment. That is, the contact portion 426 of the first embodiment is formed substantially the same as the outer shape of the space of the portion of the liquid detection chamber 305 in which the contact portion 426 is accommodated, but the second embodiment. The abutting portion 426a is slightly larger than the outer shape of the space.

  The contact part 426a of the moving member 400a is press-fitted into a part of the liquid detection chamber 305, whereby the moving member 400a is accommodated in the liquid detection chamber 305 (FIG. 10B). Thereby, the contact portion 426a is fixed to the liquid detection chamber 305. When the contact portion 426a is fixed to the liquid detection chamber 305, the thin portion 427 is deformed by a change in external force (the pressure in the liquid detection chamber 305 and the urging force of the spring 221) received by the moving member 400a, whereby the seal portion. 424 is displaced in the liquid detection chamber 305. In addition, the flexible film 500 (FIG. 3) adheres to the part (the upper surface of the contact part 426a) which attached the dot among the protrusion 304c and the upper surface (surface on the Z-axis positive direction side) of the moving member 400a. Is done. Here, the contact portion 426a corresponds to the fixing portion described in the means for solving the problem.

  Next, the displacement aspect of the moving member 400a is demonstrated using FIG.11 and FIG.12. FIG. 11 is a first view for explaining the BB cross section of FIG. FIG. 11B is a diagram illustrating a cross section taken along the line B-B in a state where there is an ink in which sufficient ink that can supply ink to the printer is stored in the liquid storage unit 18, and FIG. It is a figure showing the external shape of the moving member 400a in the state of (b). FIG. 12 is a second view for explaining the BB cross section of FIG. FIG. 12B is a diagram showing a BB cross section in an ink end state in which almost no ink is stored in the liquid storage portion 18, and FIG. 12A shows the movement in the state of FIG. It is a figure showing the external shape of the member 400a.

  As shown in FIG. 11B, when the ink state of the liquid storage unit 18 is the ink present state, the biasing force of the spring 221 causes the seal portion 424 to be displaced away from the sensor base 240 around the thin portion 427. . Thereby, the seal portion 424 and the sensor base 240 are separated from each other.

  As shown in FIG. 12B, when the ink state of the liquid storage portion 18 is the ink end state, the absolute value of the negative pressure of the liquid detection chamber 305 is larger than the biasing force of the spring 221, and the seal portion is the sensor base. It is displaced in a direction approaching 240. Thereby, the seal part 424 and the sensor base 240 abut.

  As described above, when the ink in the liquid storage portion 18 is consumed and the ink end state is changed to the ink end state, the seal portion 424 is displaced around the thin portion 427, so that the sensor base 240 and the seal member 212 are separated from each other. It comes into contact. Thereby, the moving member 400a can be stably held in the liquid detection chamber 305 as compared with the first embodiment in which the entire moving member 400 is displaced. In addition, since the contact portion 426a is fixed to the liquid detection chamber 305 by press-fitting, bubbles are generated between the outer peripheral surface of the contact portion 426a and the inner peripheral wall of the liquid detection chamber 305. It is possible to further reduce the possibility of intruding into the camera.

  FIG. 13 is a view for explaining the moving member 400a and the check valve 222. FIG. FIG. 13A is a BB partial cross-sectional view in the vicinity of the downstream communication flow path 324 in FIG. 11B, and shows a state where the check valve 222 is open. FIG. 13B is a BB partial cross-sectional view in the vicinity of the downstream communication flow path 324 in FIG. 11B, and shows a state where the check valve 222 is closed. The check valve 222 and the through hole 428 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13A, by providing the through-hole 428, even when bubbles enter the liquid detection chamber 305, the bubbles are prevented from staying in the liquid detection chamber 305, and can be more smoothly downstream. Bubbles can be discharged to the side communication channel 324. For example, even when a bubble enters the space between the moving member 400 and the liquid discharge channel 320 in the liquid detection chamber 305, as shown by an arrow A, the bubble is smoothly communicated with the downstream side by the through hole 428. It can be discharged to the flow path 324.

  Next, the check valve 222 will be described. As shown in FIG. 13A, when the ink flows from the liquid detection chamber 305 (FIG. 11) toward the downstream communication channel 324, the check valve 222 is separated from the contact portion 426a and is opened. ing. In this state, the ink in the liquid detection chamber 305 passes through the through hole 430 and flows to the downstream communication channel 324. Of the downstream communication flow path 324, the flow path provided with the check valve 222 includes a bypass flow path that bypasses the check valve 222 on the Y axis positive direction side and the Y axis negative direction side. The ink flows from the upstream side to the downstream side of the check valve 222 through the bypass flow path.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 13B, when the ink is about to flow from the liquid discharge channel 320 toward the liquid detection chamber 305 (that is, the direction opposite to the flow when supplying ink to the printer). When the ink is about to flow), the check valve 222 comes into contact with the contact portion 426a and closes by closing the through hole 430. In other words, the check valve 222 that is the valve body and the contact portion 426a of the moving member 400 constitute a check valve mechanism that suppresses the back flow of ink. Further, as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the check valve 222 has a downstream communication flow in which the check valve 222 is accommodated so that a part of the downstream communication channel 324 can be easily reciprocated. The diameter of the channel 324 is slightly smaller than the diameter of the channel cross section. Note that the check valve 222 of the first embodiment is also closed by contacting the contact portion 426 (FIG. 8) as in the second embodiment.

  Thus, since the contact part 426a of the moving members 400 and 400a functions as the valve seat, it is not necessary to provide a separate valve seat, and the number of parts can be reduced. Here, the contact portions 426 and 426a correspond to the through hole forming portion described in the means for solving the problem.

  As described above, the possibility of bubbles entering or staying in the liquid detection chamber 305 can be further reduced as compared with the first embodiment. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of the misdetection by the bubble penetration | invasion to the sensor part 260 can be reduced further compared with 1st Example.

C. Variations:
In addition, elements other than the elements described in the independent claims of the claims in the constituent elements in the above-described embodiments are additional elements and can be omitted as appropriate. Further, the present invention is not limited to the above-described examples and embodiments, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the gist thereof. For example, the following modifications are possible.

C-1. First modification:
In the above embodiment, the liquid supply unit 20 has the liquid discharge channel 320 and the liquid detection channel 331 in parallel, but may have two channels in series. For example, the liquid supply unit 20 may have the liquid detection channel 331 and the liquid discharge channel 320 in series in this order with reference to the direction of ink flow from the liquid storage unit 18 to the open hole 303. . Even if it does in this way, the liquid detection part 22 will be provided in the liquid supply part 20 itself, and generation | occurrence | production of the malfunction of an ink pack can be reduced compared with the case where a liquid supply part and a liquid detection part are separate bodies.

C-2. Second modification:
In the above embodiment, the upstream communication flow path 340 is connected to the liquid discharge flow path 320 (FIG. 7), but may be connected to the liquid storage unit 18 instead. Even if it does in this way, the liquid detection part 22 will be provided in the liquid supply part 20 itself, and generation | occurrence | production of the malfunction of an ink pack can be reduced compared with the case where a liquid supply part and a liquid detection part are separate bodies.

C-3. Third modification:
In the above embodiment, the check valve 222 is provided in the downstream communication channel 324 of the liquid detection channel 331, but the check valve 222 may not be provided. Even if it does in this way, the liquid detection part 22 will be provided in the liquid supply part 20 itself, and generation | occurrence | production of the malfunction of an ink pack can be reduced compared with the case where a liquid supply part and a liquid detection part are separate bodies.
In the above embodiment, the abutting portions 426 and 426a of the moving members 400 and 400a function as valve seats, but a valve seat may be provided in the downstream communication flow path 324 separately. Even in this case, the flow of ink from the liquid discharge channel 320 to the liquid detection chamber 305 can be suppressed.

C-4. Fourth modification:
In the above embodiment, the sensor unit 260 including the piezoelectric element 268 is used to detect the remaining amount of ink in the ink pack, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, two electrode pins whose energization state changes according to the remaining amount of ink in the liquid detection chamber 305 may be provided in the liquid detection chamber as a sensor unit. For example, when filling the ink pack with conductive ink, the two electrode pins are energized when the liquid detection chamber is filled with ink. When the ink is consumed and the liquid detection chamber is filled with gas, the two electrode pins are not energized.

C-5. Fifth modification:
In the above embodiment, the liquid detection flow path 331 and the liquid discharge flow path 320 are formed in the supply unit main body 300 so as to cross three-dimensionally. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the liquid detection flow path 331 and the liquid discharge flow path 320 may not be three-dimensionally crossed in the thickness direction of the liquid supply unit 20. Further, although the sensor unit 260 is disposed on the upstream side of the liquid detection chamber 305, the sensor unit 260 is not limited to this and can be disposed at an arbitrary position in the liquid detection chamber 305. Even if it does in this way, the liquid detection part 22 will be provided in the liquid supply part 20 itself, and generation | occurrence | production of the malfunction of an ink pack can be reduced compared with the case where a liquid supply part and a liquid detection part are separate bodies.

C-6. Sixth modification:
In the above embodiment, the supply unit main body 300 is integrally formed of synthetic resin, but is not limited to this. Specifically, as long as the liquid discharge flow path 320 and the liquid detection flow path 331 are formed by an integrally formed member, other members (for example, the relay terminal holding portion 309a) may not be formed integrally. good. Further, even if the liquid discharge channel 320 and the liquid detection channel 331 are formed by separate members, both members (the liquid discharge channel forming member and the liquid detection channel forming member) are fixed so that they cannot be removed, and the gas However, both members may be configured not to enter the ink pack 14 from other than the opening hole 303. Even in this case, the liquid supply unit 20 itself is provided with the liquid detection unit 22, and the occurrence of problems with the ink pack can be reduced as compared with the case where the liquid supply unit and the liquid detection unit are separately removable. Can do.

C-7. Seventh modification:
In the said Example, although the valve mounting part 230 and the non-return valve 232 were provided, it is not necessary to provide. Even if it does in this way, the liquid detection part 22 will be provided in the liquid supply part 20 itself, and generation | occurrence | production of the malfunction of an ink pack can be reduced compared with the case where a liquid supply part and a liquid detection part are separate bodies.

C-8. Eighth modification:
The sensor unit 260 using the piezoelectric element 268 in the above embodiment can be changed so as to realize its function depending on the ink supply method to the printer. For example, when ink is supplied to the printer by pressurizing the ink pack 14 instead of supplying ink by suction, the following changes may be made.
Instead of the spring 221 of the above-described embodiment, a spring that biases the sensor unit 220 and the seal portion 424 (FIG. 8B) in a direction that reduces the distance is provided. That is, a spring that biases both the liquid detection chamber 305 in a direction in which the volume of the liquid detection chamber 305 decreases is provided. Immediately after the ink pack 14 is filled with ink, the moving member 400 (specifically, the seal portion 424) and the sensor base 240 are in contact with each other. When the ink is sufficiently stored in the liquid storage unit 18, sufficient ink flows into the liquid detection chamber 305, and a large liquid pressure (a force for separating the moving member 400 and the sensor base 240) causes a liquid detection chamber. Occurs at 305. As a result, the sensor unit 220 and the seal portion 424 are separated from each other. On the other hand, when the amount of ink stored in the liquid storage unit 18 decreases, even if the ink pack 14 is pressurized, the pressure is not transmitted to the ink, and the ink does not flow into the liquid detection chamber 305. Then, sufficient liquid pressure is not generated in the liquid detection chamber 305, and the moving member 400 comes into contact with the sensor base 240 by the biasing force of the spring.

C-9. Ninth modification:
In the liquid container according to Application Example 2, the second flow path is a downstream communication flow path that connects the liquid detection chamber and the first flow path, and the liquid storage body When the body liquid is supplied to the liquid ejecting apparatus, the downstream communication flow that causes the liquid that has flowed into the second flow path from the first flow path or the liquid container to flow out to the first flow path A liquid container in which the downstream communication flow path is provided with a check valve that suppresses the flow of liquid from the first flow path to the liquid detection chamber. .
Even if it does in this way, possibility that air will penetrate into a sensor part by a check valve can be reduced more.

C-10. 10th modification:
In the above embodiment, the ink pack 14 used in the printer as the liquid container has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the liquid container of the present invention can be used for various liquid ejecting apparatuses. is there.
Specific examples of the liquid ejecting apparatus include an apparatus having a color material ejecting head such as a liquid crystal display, and an electrode material (conductive paste) ejecting head used for forming an electrode such as an organic EL display and a surface emitting display (FED). And an apparatus equipped with a bio-organic substance ejecting head used for biochip production, an apparatus equipped with a sample ejecting head as a precision pipette, a printing apparatus, a microdispenser, and the like.
When the liquid container 14 is used in the various liquid ejecting apparatuses described above, a liquid corresponding to the type of liquid ejected by the various liquid ejecting apparatuses may be stored in the liquid container 14.
Moreover, the manufacturing method of this invention is applicable to the liquid container 14 which accommodated various liquids. Examples of the various liquids include liquids (coloring material, conductive paste, biological organic matter, etc.) ejected by the above-described various liquid ejecting apparatuses.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Ink cartridge 12 ... 1st case 14 ... Liquid container (ink pack)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 16 ... 2nd case 18 ... Liquid storage part 20 ... Liquid supply part 22 ... Liquid detection part 200 ... Seal unit 210 ... Film 212 ... Seal member 214 ... Valve member 216 ... Compression coil spring 220 ... Sensor unit 221 ... Spring 222 ... Check valve (valve)
230 ... Valve mounting part 232 ... Check valve (valve element)
233 ... Opening part 234 ... Through hole 240 ... Sensor base 240a ... Through hole 240b ... Through hole 246 ... Relay terminal 250 ... Film 260 ... Sensor part 262 ... Sensor cavity 264 ... Body part 266 ... Vibration plate 268 ... Piezoelectric element 300 ... Supply Part main body 302 ... 1st main body part 303 ... Opening hole 304 ... 2nd main body part 304a ... Peripheral end surface 304b ... Bottom surface member 304c ... Projection part 305 ... Liquid detection chamber 305a ... Opening part 305b ... Opening part 305c ... Bottom for sensor arrangement 306 ... second opening 308 ... first opening 309a ... relay terminal holding part 310 ... spring holding part 311 ... protruding part 320 ... liquid discharge channel 320a ... central channel 320b ... groove channel 320c ... communication channel 324 ... downstream communication channel 331 ... liquid detection channel 340 ... upstream communication channel 400, 400 ... moving member 424 ... seal portion 425 ... spring holding portion 426 and 426A ... contact portion 427 ... thin portion 428 ... through hole 430 ... through hole 500 ... flexible film H1, H2 ... through hole

Claims (8)

A liquid container for supplying a liquid to a liquid ejecting apparatus,
A liquid container capable of containing a liquid;
A liquid supply unit having one end connected to the liquid storage unit and the other end opening toward the outside, and a liquid supply unit configured to circulate liquid from the liquid storage unit to the liquid ejection device; Prepared,
The liquid supply unit includes a liquid detecting portion is used to detect the amount of liquid contained in the liquid containing portion,
The liquid detector is
A liquid detection chamber for storing the liquid supplied from the liquid storage unit;
Said communication passage communicating with the liquid detection chamber is provided, have a, and sensors unit for varying the output state of the detection signal according to the amount of liquid contained in the liquid containing portion,
The liquid supply unit is
A first flow path in which the liquid detection chamber is not disposed in the middle, and allows the liquid in the liquid storage portion to flow to the liquid ejecting apparatus without passing through the liquid detection chamber;
The liquid detection chamber is disposed in the middle, and has a second flow path that passes through the liquid detection chamber and distributes the liquid in the liquid storage portion to the liquid ejecting apparatus,
The first flow path and the second flow path are formed in parallel.
Liquid container. The liquid container according to claim 1 ,
In the flow direction of the liquid when supplying the liquid to the liquid ejecting apparatus,
A check valve that suppresses the flow of liquid from the opening toward the liquid detection chamber is provided in a downstream flow path that is located downstream of the liquid detection chamber among the flow paths of the liquid supply unit. The liquid container. The liquid container according to claim 1 ,
The second flow path is a downstream communication flow path that connects the liquid detection chamber and the first flow path, and when the liquid in the liquid container is supplied to the liquid ejecting apparatus, A downstream communication channel that causes the liquid that has flowed into the second channel from the first channel or the liquid container to flow out to the first channel;
The sensor unit is provided in contact with the liquid detection chamber,
In the state where the liquid container is mounted on the liquid ejecting apparatus and the liquid ejecting apparatus is used, the sensor unit is provided in the liquid detection chamber so as to be positioned below the downstream communication channel. A liquid container. The liquid container according to any one of claims 1 to 3 ,
The sensor unit,
A vibration plate constituting a part of the front Killen flow path,
By applying a vibration to the vibrating plate, further comprising a piezoelectric element outputting a waveform signal corresponding to the residual vibration waveform due to this vibration, and
Liquid container. The liquid container according to claim 4 , which is dependent on claim 2 ,
The check valve has a valve body and a valve seat,
The liquid detection chamber is
Having an opening formed in a surface facing the sensor unit;
The liquid detection unit further includes
A flexible portion that closes the opening and deforms according to the pressure in the liquid detection chamber;
A moving member that is at least partially displaced in accordance with the deformation of the flexible portion, the moving member capable of disabling the liquid detection chamber and the communication channel of the sensor unit by displacement; Have
The liquid detection chamber and the downstream flow path communicate with each other through a through hole provided in a part of the moving member,
A liquid container in which a through hole forming portion in which the through hole is formed functions as the valve seat among the moving member. The liquid container according to claim 4 ,
The liquid detection chamber is
Having an opening formed in a surface facing the sensor unit;
The liquid detection unit further includes
A flexible portion that closes the opening and deforms according to the pressure in the liquid detection chamber;
A moving member that is in contact with the flexible portion in the liquid detection chamber and is at least partially displaced in accordance with the deformation of the flexible portion. A movable member that can be in a communicating state;
A liquid container comprising: a spring that biases the distance between the moving member and the sensor unit to increase. The liquid container according to claim 4 ,
The liquid storage chamber is
Having an opening formed in a surface facing the sensor unit;
The liquid detection unit further includes
A flexible portion that closes the opening and deforms according to the pressure in the liquid detection chamber;
A moving member that is in contact with the flexible portion in the liquid detection chamber and is at least partially displaced in accordance with the deformation of the flexible portion. A movable member that can be in a communicating state;
A liquid container having a spring that biases the distance between the moving member and the sensor unit to be small. The liquid container according to any one of claims 5 to 7 ,
The moving member is
A fixing part fixed to the liquid detection chamber;
A liquid container comprising: a seal portion that can displace the liquid detection chamber and the communication flow path of the sensor portion by being displaced.

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