JP7062950B2 - Flow path member and liquid discharge device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a technique for ejecting a liquid such as ink.

Various structures (flow path members) that supply a liquid to a liquid discharge head that discharges a liquid such as ink from a plurality of nozzles have been proposed. For example, the flow path member described in Patent Document 1 includes a second upstream flow path (first liquid flow path), an upstream filter chamber (first space), a filter, and a downstream surface in order from the upstream side through which the liquid flows. It is provided with a filter chamber (second space) and a third upstream flow path (second liquid flow path), and is further provided with point-shaped protrusions protruding from the bottom surface of the downstream filter chamber toward the filter side. The liquid from which foreign matter has been removed by passing through the first liquid flow path, the first space, the filter, the second space, and the second liquid flow path passes through the downstream flow path member, and the head body (liquid) of the recording head. It is supplied to the discharge head).

The punctate protrusions prevent the filter from sticking to the bottom surface even when the filter is pressed toward the bottom surface of the downstream filter chamber by the pressure of the flowing liquid. As a result, the problem that the effective area (execution filtration area) of the filter is reduced and the pressure loss is increased is suppressed. Further, by forming the protrusions in a dot shape and making the protrusions smaller, the bubbles mixed in the downstream filter chamber are less likely to be caught by the protrusions. This improves the discharge of air bubbles.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-049725

However, if a structural portion protruding from the bottom surface of the downstream filter chamber to the filter side is provided, air bubbles are inevitably easily caught in the structure. Even if there is, it is difficult to completely suppress the catching of bubbles. Therefore, in the flow path member described in Patent Document 1, there is a possibility that bubbles may be caught by the point-shaped protrusions and the dischargeability of the bubbles may be deteriorated.

The present invention has been made to solve at least a part of the above-mentioned problems, and can be realized as the following form or application example.

[Application Example 1] The flow path member according to this application example includes a filter, a first space provided with an inlet through which a liquid flows in, and an outlet in which the liquid flows out, separated from the first space by the filter. The bottom surface comprises a second space having a bottom surface facing the filter, the bottom surface comprising a slope away from the filter from the edge of the filter to the center when the filter is viewed in a plan view. Is in the middle of the slope.

The bottom surface of the second space facing the filter is a slope away from the filter from the end of the filter to the center when the filter is viewed in a plan view, so that the pressure of the flowing liquid causes the filter to move to the bottom surface of the second space. Even when pressed to the side, the filter is less likely to stick to the bottom surface. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the problem that air bubbles are confined in the portion where the filter is attached to the bottom surface and the air bubbles are discharged poorly. In addition, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the execution filtration area of the filter due to the filter sticking to the bottom surface.

Further, since the bottom surface is a slope separated from the filter, air bubbles will not be caught on the bottom surface of the second space unless a structural portion protruding toward the filter is provided on the bottom surface of the second space. In addition, the pressure of the flowing liquid pushes the filter toward the bottom surface of the second space, and when the distance between the filter and the slope (bottom surface) becomes shorter, the cross-sectional area of the flow path through which the liquid flows toward the outlet increases. It becomes smaller and the flow (flow velocity) of the liquid becomes faster than when the cross-sectional area of the flow path is large. Then, when the liquid contains air bubbles, the air bubbles are likely to be quickly discharged from the outlet without staying in the second space.
Therefore, it is possible to improve the air bubble discharge property of the flow path member.

[Application Example 2] In the flow path member described in the above application example, when the filter is viewed in a plan view, it is preferable that the width of the bottom surface is gradually reduced toward the outlet side than at the opposite side.

The second space is a space partitioned by the filter and the bottom surface, and the portion where the filter and the bottom surface are in contact becomes the end of the second space and becomes the contour of the bottom surface. Since the liquid that has flowed into the second space via the entrance, the first space, and the filter flows along the edge of the second space, the flow direction of the liquid that has flowed into the second space by the edge of the second space is determined. Can be controlled. In other words, the flow direction of the liquid flowing into the second space can be controlled by the contour of the bottom surface.
When the filter is viewed in a plan view, the state in which the width of the bottom surface gradually decreases with respect to the outlet side corresponds to the state in which the contour of the bottom surface becomes thinner in the direction toward the exit on the outlet side. Further, when the contour of the bottom surface becomes thinner in a predetermined direction, the state in which the direction toward the exit side gradually decreases from the opposite side corresponds to the state in which the exit side becomes thinner than the opposite side.

Therefore, the area of the bottom surface becomes smaller on the exit side and larger on the opposite side. Since the executed filtration area of the filter corresponds to the area of the bottom surface, the area of the bottom surface on the opposite side can be increased, so that the execution filtration area of the filter can also be increased. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the problem that the execution filtration area of the filter is reduced and the pressure loss is increased.
When the contour of the bottom surface becomes thinner toward the outlet on the outlet side, the flow direction of the liquid is controlled by the contour of the bottom surface, so that the liquid flows in the direction toward the outlet. That is, the liquid flowing in the second space is collected toward the outlet and easily discharged from the outlet. Therefore, when the liquid contains air bubbles, the discharge property of the air bubbles can be enhanced.

[Application Example 3] The flow path member according to the present application example has a filter, a first space provided with an inlet through which a liquid flows, and a bottom surface separated from the first space by the filter and facing the filter. A second space and an outlet provided on the bottom surface from which the liquid flows out are provided, and when the filter is viewed in a plan view, the width of the bottom surface is gradually reduced with respect to the outlet side as compared with the opposite side. It is characterized by doing.

The area of the bottom surface is smaller on the exit side and larger on the opposite side. Since the execution filtration area of the filter corresponds to the area of the bottom surface, the execution filtration area of the filter can be increased by increasing the area of the bottom surface on the opposite side. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the problem that the execution filtration area of the filter is reduced and the pressure loss is increased.
On the outlet side, when the contour of the bottom surface becomes thinner toward the outlet, the liquid flows in the direction toward the outlet. That is, the liquid flowing in the second space is collected toward the outlet and easily discharged from the outlet. Therefore, when the liquid contains air bubbles, the discharge property of the air bubbles can be enhanced.

[Application Example 4] In the flow path member according to the above application example, the bottom surface connects a first portion whose width gradually decreases on the outlet side, the outlet, and the first portion, and connects to the outlet. It is preferable to have a second portion of the same width.

The liquid that has flowed into the second space is discharged from the outlet via the first portion where the contour of the bottom surface narrows toward the outlet and the second portion having the same width as the outlet. That is, the liquid that has flowed into the second space is collected in the second portion by the first portion, and the flow direction of the liquid is aligned in the direction toward the outlet by the second portion, and then the liquid is discharged from the outlet. ..
Since the flow direction of the liquid toward the outlet is aligned, the liquid is more likely to be discharged from the outlet than when the flow direction of the liquid toward the outlet is not aligned (for example, when turbulence occurs), and bubbles are formed in the liquid. When it is contained, the discharge of air bubbles can be enhanced.

[Application Example 5] In the flow path member according to the above application example, the contour of the bottom surface includes a first contour forming the contour of the outlet, a second contour different from the contour of the outlet, and the first contour. The first direction is the direction from the portion of the second contour farthest from the intersection to the portion of the first contour farthest from the intersection, which has an intersection of the contour and the second contour. If so, it is preferable that the first contour is located on the first direction side with respect to the intersection.

By the second contour, the liquid collected toward the intersection (outlet side) of the first contour and the second contour is discharged from the outlet. In other words, the second contour drains the liquid collected in the first direction from the outlet.
The state in which the first contour is located on the first direction side with respect to the intersection is a state in which the outlet is arranged at the end of the bottom surface in the first direction (the portion where the bottom surface and the filter are in contact with each other). If the outlet is located in the center of the bottom surface, the liquid collected in the first direction may move beyond the outlet in the second space and may not be discharged from the outlet. On the other hand, if the outlet is located at the end of the bottom surface in the first direction, the liquid collected in the first direction is reliably discharged from the outlet without exceeding the outlet, so that the outlet is located in the center of the bottom surface. It is easier to discharge from the outlet than when it is done. Therefore, when the liquid contains air bubbles, the discharge property of the air bubbles can be enhanced.

[Application Example 6] In the flow path member described in the above application example, it is preferable that the intersection is located on the side opposite to the first direction with respect to the center of the outlet.

When the liquid collected in the first direction is discharged from the outlet, the upstream side of the first direction at the outlet has a shorter length of the liquid flow path than the downstream side of the first direction at the outlet. As a result, the resistance when the liquid flows is reduced, so that the flow of the liquid discharged from the outlet becomes faster, and the liquid is easily discharged from the outlet. Also, the upstream side of the exit in the first direction is opposite to the center of the exit at the exit, and the downstream side of the exit in the first direction is relative to the center of the exit at the exit. It is the first direction side. Therefore, on the side opposite to the center of the exit at the exit in the first direction, the flow of the liquid discharged from the outlet is faster than on the side in the first direction with respect to the center of the exit at the exit, and the flow from the outlet is faster. The liquid is easily discharged.
It should be noted that the flow of the liquid discharged from the outlet is slower on the first direction side with respect to the center of the outlet at the outlet than on the side opposite to the first direction with respect to the center of the exit at the outlet.

When the intersection is located on the opposite side of the first direction with respect to the center of the exit, the liquid collected toward the intersection (exit side) by the second contour is in the first direction with respect to the center of the exit at the exit. Since it goes to the opposite side (the side where the liquid flow is fast), it is easier to be discharged from the outlet as compared with the case where it goes to the first direction side (the side where the liquid flow is slow) with respect to the center of the outlet at the outlet. Therefore, when the liquid contains air bubbles, the discharge property of the air bubbles can be enhanced.

[Application Example 7] In the flow path member described in the above application example, when the filter is viewed in a plan view, a fixing portion fixed to the end of the filter is provided on the outside of the outer shape of the bottom surface. preferable.

When the fibers are knitted to form a filter, if a fixing portion fixed to the end of the filter is provided, the fibers constituting the filter are difficult to be unraveled at the end of the filter. For example, when the fibers constituting the filter are unraveled, the unraveled fibers may be separated from the main body of the filter and become a new foreign substance. In this application example, since the fibers constituting the filter are difficult to be unraveled by the fixed portion, it is possible to suppress the possibility that the unraveled fibers become new foreign substances.

[Application Example 8] In the flow path member described in the above application example, it is preferable that the filter is arranged along a direction intersecting a horizontal plane.

When the filter is arranged in the direction intersecting the horizontal plane, the dimension (width) in the direction intersecting the horizontal plane of the flow path member can be shortened as compared with the case where the filter is arranged along the horizontal plane.

[Application Example 9] In the flow path member described in the above application example, the outlet is preferably located on the uppermost side in the gravity direction on the bottom surface.

When the liquid contains a gas, the gas floats on the upper side in the gravitational direction due to buoyancy. Therefore, if the outlet is located on the uppermost side in the gravitational direction on the bottom surface, the bubbles floating on the upper side in the gravitational direction due to the buoyancy are likely to be discharged.

[Application Example 10] In the flow path member according to the application example, the liquid flows from the first space toward the second space, and the filter bends from the first space toward the second space. If so, the slope is preferably along the deflection of the filter from the first space to the second space.

When the liquid flows from the first space to the second space and the filter bends from the first space to the second space, the slope (bottom surface) bends from the first space to the second space of the filter. Since it is along the line, it is difficult for the filter to stick to the bottom surface. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the problem that air bubbles are confined in the portion where the filter is attached to the bottom surface and the air bubbles are discharged poorly. In addition, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the execution filtration area of the filter due to the filter sticking to the bottom surface.

[Application Example 11] In the flow path member described in the above application example, it is preferable that the portion of the bottom surface that is most distant from the filter is a curved surface.

Since the portion of the bottom surface that is most distant from the filter has a curved surface, it is difficult for bubbles to get caught in that portion, so that the dischargeability of bubbles can be improved.

[Application Example 12] In the flow path member according to the above application example, a plane inclined toward the filter is continuous with the curved surface between the portion of the bottom surface most distant from the filter and the outlet. , Or, it is preferable that a curved surface having a curvature larger than that of the curved surface is continuous.

Since the cross-sectional area of the cross section intersecting in the direction toward the outlet can be reduced from the portion of the bottom surface farthest from the filter to the outlet, the flow velocity can be increased, and the air bubble discharge property can be improved.

[Application Example 13] The liquid discharge device according to the present application example is characterized by including the flow path member described in the above application example and a nozzle for discharging liquid from the flow path member.

Since the flow path member described in the above application example has enhanced air bubble dischargeability, the liquid discharge device having the flow path member suppresses the adverse effect of air bubbles, for example, the problem that the liquid is not properly discharged due to the air bubbles. be able to.

The partial block diagram of the inkjet printing apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. Perspective view of any one liquid discharge unit. The schematic diagram of the flow path formed in the flow path member which concerns on embodiment. The block diagram of the flow path member which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. The block diagram of the flow path member which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. The block diagram of the flow path member which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. Top view of the first surface of the substrate. Top view of the second surface of the substrate. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the flow path member according to the first embodiment along the VV line of FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a flow path member according to the first embodiment along the VI-VI line of FIG. A plan view of the flow path chamber as viewed from the X-axis direction. An enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the exit in FIG. 7. An enlarged plan view of the vicinity of the exit in FIG. An enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the outlet of the flow path member according to the first modification. An enlarged plan view of the vicinity of the outlet of the flow path member according to the second modification. Sectional drawing of the flow path member which concerns on Embodiment 2. The plan view which shows the state of the bottom surface of the flow path member which concerns on embodiment. The plan view which shows the state of the bottom surface of the flow path member which concerns on modification 3. The plan view which shows the state of the bottom surface of the flow path member which concerns on modification 4. The plan view which shows the state of the bottom surface of the flow path member which concerns on modification 5. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the bottom surface of the flow path member according to the modified example 7 along the VV line of FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the bottom surface of the flow path member according to the modification 7 along the VI-VI line of FIG.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each of the following figures, the scale of each layer and each member is different from the actual scale in order to make each layer and each member recognizable.

(Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a partial configuration diagram of an inkjet printing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of any one liquid discharge unit.
In FIGS. 1 and 2, an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis are illustrated as three spatial axes orthogonal to each other. Of the X-axis directions along the X-axis, the + X-axis direction is a positive direction, and the −X-axis direction is a negative direction. Of the Y-axis directions along the Y-axis, the + Y-axis direction is a positive direction, and the −Y-axis direction is a negative direction. Of the Z-axis directions along the Z-axis, the + Z-axis direction is a positive direction, and the −Z-axis direction is a negative direction. That is, the arrow side of the arrow indicating the axial direction is the + direction (positive direction), and the proximal end side is the-direction (negative direction). Further, the XY plane is a horizontal plane, and the −Z axis direction is the direction of gravity. Further, the XYZ axes of FIGS. 1 and 2 correspond to the XYZ axes of other figures.
Further, the X-axis direction is the width direction of the printing device 10, the Y-axis direction is the depth direction of the printing device, and the Z-axis direction is the height direction of the printing device 10.

As shown in FIG. 1, the printing device 10 according to the first embodiment is an example of a "liquid ejection device", and ejects ink, which is an example of a "liquid", onto a medium 12 such as printing paper. The printing device 10 includes a control device 22, a transport mechanism 24, a plurality of liquid discharge units 26, and a carriage 28. Further, the printing apparatus 10 is equipped with a liquid container (cartridge) 14 for storing ink.

The control device 22 comprehensively controls each element of the printing device 10. The transport mechanism 24 transports the medium 12 in the −Y axis direction (sub-scanning direction) under the control of the control device 22. The carriage 28 is equipped with a liquid discharge unit 26 and reciprocates in the X-axis direction (main scanning direction) under the control of the control device 22. The liquid ejection unit 26 ejects the ink supplied from the liquid container 14 from each of the plurality of nozzles N to the medium 12 under the control of the control device 22.
The printing device 10 alternately repeats the operation of ejecting the liquid while the liquid ejection unit 26 reciprocates together with the carriage 28 in the X-axis direction and the operation of the conveying mechanism 24 conveying the medium 12 in the −Y axis direction. , A desired image is formed on the medium 12.

As shown in FIG. 2, the liquid discharge unit 26 includes a flow path member 32, a liquid discharge head 34, and a wiring board 36.
The flow path member 32 is arranged on the + Z axis direction side with respect to the liquid discharge head 34, and is X as compared with the dimension in the Z axis direction (dimension in the height direction) and the dimension in the Y axis direction (dimension in the depth direction). It has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with shortened axial dimensions (width dimensions). That is, the flow path member 32 is installed so that the dimension in the width direction is short and the dimension in the height direction is long.
In the following description, when the flow path member 32 is installed so that the dimension in the width direction is short and the dimension in the height direction is long, the flow path member 32 is referred to as being vertically placed. Further, when the flow path member 32 is installed so that the dimension in the width direction is long and the dimension in the height direction is short, it is said that the flow path member 32 is horizontally placed.

In this embodiment, the flow path member 32 is vertically placed. By vertically arranging the flow path member 32, the width dimension of the liquid discharge unit 26 can be shortened, and the width dimension of the printing device 10 can be shortened.
The liquid discharge head 34 is a thin member arranged on the −Z axis direction side with respect to the flow path member 32, and the dimension in the Z axis direction is shorter than the dimension in the X axis direction and the dimension in the Y axis direction. ..

The flow path member 32 includes a base 42 forming the main body of the flow path member 32, a sealing body 44 that seals the first surface 42A on the −X axis direction side of the base 42, and a + X axis direction side of the base 42. A sealing body 46 for sealing the second surface 42B, a supply flow path (supply port) 16, and a discharge flow path (discharge port) 17 are provided.
The supply flow path 16 is arranged on the + Z axis direction side with respect to the substrate 42, and the discharge flow path 17 is arranged on the −Z axis direction side with respect to the substrate 42. Further, the surface of the substrate 42 on the −Y axis direction side (the surface intersecting the first surface 42A and the second surface 42B) is the third surface 42C.
The flow path member 32 passes through a flow path formed by sealing the surfaces 42A and 42B of the substrate 42 with the sealing bodies 44 and 46 for the ink supplied from the liquid container 14 to the supply flow path 16. , Discharge to the discharge channel 17.

The liquid discharge head 34 is connected to the discharge flow path 17 of the flow path member 32 via the supply pipe 38. The liquid discharge head 34 discharges ink supplied from the discharge flow path 17 of the flow path member 32 via the supply pipe 38 from a plurality of nozzles N.
Specifically, the liquid discharge head 34 has a plurality of pressure chambers (not shown) and piezoelectric elements (not shown) corresponding to different nozzles N. A flexible wiring board 36 such as an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) or an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) is connected to the liquid discharge head 34. The wiring board 36 is formed with wiring for supplying a drive signal for driving each piezoelectric element and a power supply voltage to the liquid discharge head 34. By vibrating the piezoelectric element according to the drive signal and the power supply voltage supplied via the wiring board 36 to fluctuate the pressure in the pressure chamber, the ink filled in the pressure chamber is ejected from each nozzle N.

Since a part of the member (for example, a resin tube) forming the ink flow path from the liquid container 14 to the nozzle N has substrate permeability, the printing device 10 can be used from the liquid container 14 for a long period of time. Bubbles may be mixed into the ink in the ink flow path leading to the nozzle N.
If gas is mixed in the flow path of the ink from the liquid container 14 to the nozzle N and the bubbles stay in the pressure chamber, the pressure fluctuation in the pressure chamber due to the piezoelectric element is hindered, and the ink filled in the pressure chamber is charged. The image may not be properly ejected from the nozzle N, and the quality of the image formed on the medium 12 may deteriorate. Therefore, the printing apparatus 10 periodically performs a maintenance process (for example, a flushing process) to forcibly discharge air bubbles mixed in the ink flow path from the liquid container 14 to the nozzle N to the outside from the nozzle N. ing.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a flow path formed inside the flow path member according to the present embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 3, the flow path member 32 has a plurality of flow paths QA, QB, QC and a plurality of flow path chambers 1, 2, and 3 between the supply flow path 16 and the discharge flow path 17. are doing. Each flow path QA, QB, QC is a path through which ink flows, and each flow path chamber 1, 2, 3 is a space that communicates with each flow path QA, QB, QC.

The flow path chamber 1 is a space that is arranged between the supply flow path 16 and the flow path QA and communicates with the supply flow path 16 and the flow path QA. A filter FA is installed in the flow path chamber 1. The filter FA collects foreign matter from the ink supplied from the supply flow path 16 to the flow path chamber 1.

The flow path chamber 2 is a space that is arranged between the flow path QA and the flow path QB and communicates with the flow path QA and the flow path QB. Further, an adjusting mechanism B is installed between the flow path QA and the flow path chamber 2.
The adjusting mechanism B is a valve mechanism that controls opening / closing (opening / closing) of the flow path QA according to the pressure (negative pressure) in the flow path chamber 2. Specifically, the adjusting mechanism B closes the flow path QA in a normal state in which the pressure in the flow path chamber 2 is maintained within a predetermined range, the ink in the flow path chamber 2 is consumed, and the flow path chamber 2 is filled with ink. When the negative pressure becomes strong, the flow path QA is opened. With the adjusting mechanism B opening the flow path QA, the ink flowing into the flow path chamber 2 from the flow path QA is supplied to the flow path QB.
Further, if foreign matter is mixed in the ink supplied from the flow path chamber 1 to the flow path QA, the foreign matter may interfere with the operation of the adjusting mechanism B, so that the ink from which the foreign matter has been removed by the filter FA is used. , Is supplied from the flow path chamber 1 to the flow path QA.

The flow path chamber 3 is a space that is arranged between the flow path QC and the flow path QC and communicates with the flow path QB and the flow path QC. The flow path chamber 3 has an inlet E1 for ink to flow in and an outlet E2 for ink to flow out. A filter FB is installed in the flow path chamber 3. The filter FB collects foreign matter from the ink supplied from the flow path QB to the flow path chamber 3.
Further, the filter FB divides the flow path chamber 3 into two spaces S1 and S2. In the flow path chamber 3, the space on the inlet E1 side with respect to the filter FB is the first space S1, and the space on the outlet E2 side with respect to the filter FB is the second space S2.

With this configuration, the ink in the flow path chamber 2 flows into the first space S1 in the flow path chamber 3 via the flow path QB and the inlet E1, and after the foreign matter is collected by the filter FB, the ink flows. It flows into the second space S2 of the road chamber 3 and is discharged from the exit E2. Then, the ink discharged from the outlet E2 is supplied to the liquid discharge head 34 from the discharge flow path 17 communicating with the flow path QC via the flow path QC.

Of the flow path chambers 1, 2 and 3 of the flow path member 32, the flow path chamber 3 is arranged on the most downstream side in the ink flow direction and has the greatest effect on the operation of the liquid ejection head 34.
For example, if the ink supplied from the flow path chamber 3 to the liquid discharge head 34 contains a foreign substance, the liquid discharge head 34 may not operate properly. Therefore, the filter FB installed in the flow path chamber 3 is used. Compared to the filter FA installed in the flow path chamber 1, the eyes are finer and it is possible to collect minute foreign substances.
For example, if the ink supplied from the flow path chamber 3 to the liquid discharge head 34 contains air bubbles, the liquid discharge head 34 may not operate properly, so that the air bubbles are difficult to stay in the flow path chamber 3 and described above. In the maintenance process, air bubbles are easily discharged from the outlet E2 together with the ink. That is, the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment has an excellent configuration in which when bubbles are contained in the ink, the bubbles are easily discharged from the outlet E2 and the dischargeability of the bubbles can be improved. The details will be described below.

4A, 4B, and 4C are block views of the flow path member according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a plan view of the first surface of the substrate. FIG. 6 is a plan view of the second surface of the substrate.
Note that FIG. 4A is a view of the flow path member 32 as viewed from the first surface 42A side. FIG. 4B is a view of the flow path member 32 as viewed from the third surface 42C side. FIG. 4C is a view of the flow path member 32 as viewed from the second surface 42B side. Further, in FIGS. 4A to 4C, in order to make the states of the surfaces 42A and 42B easy to understand, the illustration of the sealing body 44 and the sealing body 46 is partially omitted. Further, in FIGS. 5 and 6, the adjusting mechanism B is shown in addition to the surfaces 42A and 42B of the substrate 42.
Further, in FIG. 4C, the contour of the second space S2 in the flow path chamber 3 is shown by a solid line, the contour of the first space S1 in the flow path chamber 3 is shown by a broken line, and the fixing portion 6 (see FIG. 8) is provided. The end T (see FIG. 8) of the filtered filter FB is illustrated by a chain double-dashed line. The broken line in FIG. 4C is a part of the contour of the first space S1.

As shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C, the substrate 42 is a substantially flat structure including the first surface 42A and the second surface 42B located on opposite sides of each other, and is, for example, in injection molding of a resin material. It is formed. In this embodiment, the substrate 42 is made of polypropylene (PP).
The sealing bodies 44 and 46 are members having a barrier property against moisture, oxygen and nitrogen in addition to flexibility (elasticity). Specifically, the sealing bodies 44 and 46 have a three-layer structure in which a polypropylene film layer having flexibility (elasticity), a barrier layer made of silica (SiO ² ), and a reinforcing layer made of polyethylene terephthalate are laminated. have. The encapsulant 44 is bonded to the first surface 42A of the substrate 42, and the encapsulant 46 is bonded to the second surface 42B of the substrate 42.

As shown in FIG. 5, a recess 62, a groove portion 54, and a groove portion 56 are formed on the first surface 42A of the substrate 42. The recess 62, the groove 54, and the groove 56 are low recessed portions on the first surface 42A, and are sealed (sealed) by the sealing body 44 joined to the first surface 42A. The recess 62 is formed in a substantially circular shape in a plan view from the X-axis direction.
The space surrounded by the recess 62 and the sealing body 44 functions as the flow path chamber 2. The space surrounded by the groove portion 56 and the sealing body 44 functions as the flow path QC. The space surrounded by the groove portion 54 and the sealing body 44 functions as the partial QA1 of the flow path QA.

As shown in FIG. 6, a recess 61, a recess 63, a groove 67, and a groove 68 are formed on the second surface 42B of the substrate 42. The recess 61, the recess 63, the groove 67, and the groove 68 are low recessed portions on the second surface 42B, and are sealed (sealed) by the sealing body 46 joined to the second surface 42B.
The space surrounded by the recess 61 and the sealing body 46 functions as the flow path chamber 1. The space surrounded by the recess 63 and the sealing body 46 functions as the flow path chamber 3. The space surrounded by the groove portion 67 and the sealing body 46 functions as the partial QA2 of the flow path QA. The space surrounded by the groove portion 68 and the sealing body 46 functions as the flow path QB.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the supply flow path 16 communicates with the flow path chamber 1 on the second surface 42B side via the communication hole H1 penetrating the substrate 42. The flow path chamber 1 on the second surface 42B side is communicated with the upstream end of the portion QA1 of the flow path QA on the first surface 42A side via the communication hole H2 penetrating the substrate 42. The downstream end of the flow path QA on the first surface 42A side is the upstream end of the flow path QA on the second surface 42B side via the communication hole H3 penetrating the substrate 42. Communicate with. Further, the downstream end of the portion QA2 of the flow path QA on the second surface 42B side is communicated with the flow path chamber 2 on the first surface 42A side via the adjusting mechanism B. The flow path chamber 2 on the first surface 42A side is communicated with the upstream end of the flow path QB on the second surface 42B side via the communication hole H4 penetrating the substrate 42. The downstream end of the flow path QB on the second surface 42B side communicates with the flow path chamber 3 on the second surface 42B side via the inlet E1. The inlet E1 is an opening provided in the partition wall that separates the flow path QB and the flow path chamber 3. The flow path chamber 3 on the second surface 42B side communicates with the upstream end of the flow path QC on the first surface 42A side via the outlet E2. The outlet E2 is a hole that penetrates the substrate 42. The downstream end of the flow path QC on the first surface 42A side is communicated with the discharge flow path 17 via the communication hole H5.

As described above, in the flow path member 32, the supply flow path 16, the communication hole H1, the flow path chamber 1 on the second surface 42B side, the communication hole H2, and the partial QA1 of the flow path QA on the first surface 42A side. , The communication hole H3, the flow path QA on the second surface 42B side, the adjustment mechanism B, the flow path chamber 2 on the first surface 42A side, the communication hole H4, and the flow path QB on the second surface 42B side. Ink flows through the inlet E1, the flow path chamber 3 on the second surface 42B side, the outlet E2, the flow path QC on the first surface 42A side, the communication hole H5, and the discharge flow path 17. It is formed.
Then, the ink supplied from the liquid container 14 is supplied to the liquid discharge head 34 via the flow path of the flow path member 32 and the supply pipe 38.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the flow path member according to the present embodiment along the VV line of FIG. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a flow path member according to the present embodiment along the VI-VI line of FIG. FIG. 9 is a plan view of the flow path chamber 3 as viewed from the X-axis direction, and is a schematic view showing the state of the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65 of the recess 63 forming the flow path chamber 3.
In FIGS. 7 and 8, the filter FB when the ink does not flow is shown by a long-dashed line, and the filter FB when the ink flows is shown by a broken line. Further, in FIG. 9, the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65 is shown by a solid line or a broken line, the contours E2A and E2B of the outlet E2 formed on the bottom surface 65 are shown by a broken line or a dashed line, and the filter FB is shown by a two-dot chain line. ing.

As shown in FIG. 7, the flow path chamber 3 is a space in which the recess 63 is sealed by the sealing body 46, and the filter FB is installed inside. In the flow path chamber 3, the space partitioned by the sealing body 46 and the filter FB is the first space S1, and the space partitioned by the filter FB and the bottom surface 65 of the recess 63 is the second space S2. The first space S1 is arranged on the + X-axis direction side with respect to the filter FB, and the second space S2 is arranged on the −X-axis direction side with respect to the filter FB.
Further, the bottom surface 65 of the recess 63 is a surface facing the filter FB. The end of the space (flow path chamber 3) in which the bottom surface 65 (recessed portion 63) is sealed by the sealing body 46 becomes the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65. That is, the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65 corresponds to the portion where the bottom surface 65 and the sealing body 46 are in contact with each other.
The first space S1 is provided with an inlet E1 (see FIG. 6) into which ink flows. The second space S2 is separated from the first space S1 by the filter FB, and has an outlet E2 through which ink flows out and a bottom surface 65 facing the filter FB.

When the ink is not flowing in the flow path chamber 3, the filter FB is arranged along the Z-axis direction as shown by the alternate long and short dash line in the figure. The XY plane is a horizontal plane, the Z-axis direction is an example of "direction intersecting the horizontal plane", and the filter FB is arranged along the direction intersecting the XY plane (horizontal plane). In the present embodiment, the angle formed by the filter FB and the XY plane (horizontal plane) is 90 °. The angle formed by the filter FB and the XY plane (horizontal plane) is not limited to 90 °, and may be smaller than 90 ° or larger than 90 °.

The bottom surface 65 of the recess 63 is inclined so as to intersect the Z-axis direction. Specifically, the bottom surface 65 of the recess 63 is separated from the filter FB from the end to the center of the filter FB when the filter FB is viewed in a plan view. In other words, the bottom surface 65 of the recess 63 includes a slope 66 away from the filter FB toward the center from the end of the filter FB when the filter FB is viewed in a plan view.
In the following description, the bottom surface 65 of the recess 63 may be simply referred to as a slope 66. The slope 66 is a surface of the bottom surface 65 that intersects the Z-axis direction.

When the ink flows in the flow path chamber 3, that is, when the ink flows from the first space S1 to the second space S2, the filter FB moves from the first space S1 to the second space S2 due to the pressure of the flowing ink. It bends in the direction toward which the ink flows. Specifically, the filter FB is displaced so that the center of the filter FB approaches the slope 66, as shown by the broken line in the figure. As a result, when the ink flows in the flow path chamber 3, the distance between the filter FB and the slope 66 becomes shorter than in the case where the ink does not flow in the flow path chamber 3, and the cross-sectional area of the first space S1 becomes shorter. It becomes large and the cross-sectional area of the second space S2 becomes small.
The cross-sectional area of the spaces S1 and S2 is the area of the surface of the spaces S1 and S2 along the XY plane.

The slope 66 becomes a filter FB when the ink flows from the first space S1 to the second space S2 and the filter FB bends from the first space S1 to the second space S2 due to the pressure of the flowing ink. It is provided so that it does not come into contact. In other words, when the ink flows from the first space S1 to the second space S2 and the filter FB bends from the first space S1 to the second space S2, the slope 66 is the first of the filter FB. It is arranged along the deflection from the space S1 to the second space S2.

Temporarily, bubbles are contained in the ink flowing from the first space S1 to the second space S2, the filter FB bends from the first space S1 to the second space S2 due to the pressure of the flowing ink, and the filter FB becomes a slope. When it comes into contact with 66, the bubbles are confined (constrained) in the portion where the filter FB and the slope 66 are in contact with each other, and the bubbles are less likely to be discharged from the flow path chamber 3. In the present embodiment, the slope 66 is provided so as not to come into contact with the filter FB even when the filter FB bends from the first space S1 to the second space S2 due to the pressure of the flowing ink. It is possible to suppress the problem that the air bubbles are confined (constrained) in the portion where the filter FB and the slope 66 come into contact with each other, and the air bubbles are difficult to be discharged from the flow path chamber 3.

In the present embodiment, when the ink flows in the flow path chamber 3, the cross-sectional area of the second space S2 is smaller than that in the case where the ink does not flow in the flow path chamber 3, so that the second space S2 is cut off. Compared with the case where the area is large, the flow (flow velocity) of the ink flowing in the second space S2 becomes faster. When the flow of ink flowing in the second space S2 becomes faster, the ink flowing into the second space S2 stays in the second space S2 as compared with the case where the flow of ink flowing in the second space S2 is slower. It becomes easy to be discharged from the outlet E2 promptly. That is, when the cross-sectional area of the second space S2 becomes smaller and the flow of ink flowing in the second space S2 becomes faster, the ink is more likely to be discharged from the outlet E2, and when the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are discharged from the outlet E2. It becomes easy to be discharged, and the discharge property of air bubbles can be improved.

As the filter FB, for example, a fiber made of stainless steel is woven in a tatami mat. In addition, as the filter FB, a non-woven fabric or the like can be used. The filter FB is larger than the bottom surface 65 (recessed portion 63), and the end T projects from the bottom surface 65 (recessed portion 63) in a plan view (see FIG. 9).
The sealing body 46 is fixed (bonded) to the substrate 42 by heat welding. Specifically, the encapsulant 46 and the substrate 42 are heat-welded by heat tools or irradiation with laser light, and the encapsulant 46 is fixed (bonded) to the substrate 42. The portion where the sealing body 46 and the substrate 42 are heat-welded is the joint portion 5. The joint portion 5 is formed on the peripheral edge of the flow path chamber 3 (recessed portion 63).

The end T of the filter FB is arranged at the joint portion 5 where the sealing body 46 and the substrate 42 are heat-welded. That is, in a state where the end T of the filter FB is arranged between the sealing body 46 and the substrate 42, the sealing body 46 and the substrate 42 are heat-welded, and the end T of the filter FB is arranged at the joint portion 5. , The end T of the filter FB is fixed to the substrate 42. By heat-welding the encapsulant 46 and the substrate 42 in this way, in addition to fixing the encapsulant 46 to the substrate 42, the filter FB is fixed to the substrate 42.
It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to forming the joint portion 5 by heat-welding the encapsulant 46 and the substrate 42, and an adhesive is placed between the encapsulant 46 and the substrate 42 to cure the adhesive. The joint portion 5 may be formed by forming an O-ring between the sealing body 46 and the substrate 42, and the portion where the O-ring is arranged may be pressed by a pressing member to form the joint portion 5. good.

Since the end T of the filter FB is arranged at the portion (joint portion 5) where the sealing body 46 and the substrate 42 are heat-welded, it becomes difficult for the fibers made of stainless steel constituting the filter FB to be unraveled at the end T. ..
If the fiber made of stainless steel constituting the filter FB is unraveled at the end T, the unwound portion of the fiber made of stainless steel is separated from the end T and becomes a new foreign substance, and the new foreign substance becomes the outlet E2. May be discharged from. Further, the unraveled portion of the fiber made of stainless steel may damage the sealing bodies 44 and 46, and holes (scratches) may be formed in the sealing bodies 44 and 46. When the end T of the filter FB is arranged at the joint portion 5, the fibers made of stainless steel constituting the filter FB are difficult to be unraveled at the end T, so that such a defect can be suppressed.

As shown in FIG. 8, the filter FB has a portion where the end T is arranged between the joint portion 5 and the bottom surface 65 in addition to the portion where the end T is arranged at the joint portion 5. In the present embodiment, a fixing portion 6 fixed to the end T of the filter FB arranged between the joining portion 5 and the bottom surface 65 is provided. That is, as shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 4C, the fixing portion 6 is provided at the end T of the filter FB located outside the second space S2 and the outlet E2 (that is, outside the outer shape of the bottom surface 65). There is.
In other words, when the filter FB is viewed in a plan view, a fixing portion 6 fixed to the end T of the filter FB is provided on the outside of the outer shape of the bottom surface 65. The fixing portion 6 is formed, for example, by applying an adhesive to the end T of the filter FB and curing the adhesive. When the adhesive has adhesiveness to the substrate 42, the end T of the filter FB can be fixed to the substrate 42.
When the fixing portion 6 fixed to the end T of the filter FB is provided, the fibers made of stainless steel constituting the filter FB are difficult to be unraveled at the end T, and the fibers made of stainless steel constituting the filter FB are unraveled at the end T. It is possible to suppress problems caused by being scratched.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, in the flow path chamber 3 (bottom surface 65), the outlet E2 is arranged at the end of the bottom surface 65 and further projects in the + Z axis direction. In other words, in the flow path chamber 3 (bottom surface 65), the outlet E2 is located on the uppermost side in the direction of gravity.
When the ink flowing into the flow path chamber 3 contains air bubbles, the air bubbles float on the upper side in the direction of gravity due to buoyancy. Therefore, if the outlet E2 is formed on the uppermost side of the flow path chamber 3 (bottom surface 65) in the gravity direction, bubbles floating on the upper side in the gravity direction due to buoyancy can be easily discharged from the outlet E2.
Therefore, if the outlet E2 is formed on the uppermost side of the flow path chamber 3 (bottom surface 65) in the direction of gravity, the air bubble discharge property can be enhanced.

Further, the exit E2 is (provided) in the middle of the slope 66. At the outlet E2, one end E2T1 of the exit E2 in the Z-axis direction is arranged on the -Z-axis direction side, the other end E2T2 of the exit E2 in the Z-axis direction is arranged on the + Z-axis direction side, and the end E2T1 of the exit E2. The position in the X-axis direction of is different from the position in the X-axis direction of the end E2T2 of the exit E2.
"In the middle of the slope" in the present application means a state in which the position of the end E2T1 of the outlet E2 in the X-axis direction and the position of the end E2T2 of the exit E2 in the X-axis direction are different. In other words, "in the middle of the slope" in the present application means a state in which the distance between the end E2T1 of the outlet E2 and the filter FB and the distance between the end E2T2 of the outlet E2 and the filter FB are different. ..

As described above, the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment is separated from the filter FB, the first space S1 provided with the inlet E1 into which the ink flows, and the first space S1 by the filter FB, and the ink flows out. A second space S2 having an outlet E2 and a bottom surface 65 facing the filter FB is provided, and the bottom surface 65 is a slope away from the filter FB toward the center from the end of the filter FB when the filter FB is viewed in a plan view. Including 66, the exit E2 has a configuration in the middle of the slope 66.
In other words, the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment is separated from the filter FB, the first space S1 provided with the inlet E1 into which the ink flows, and the first space S1 by the filter FB, and faces the filter FB. It has a second space S2 having a bottom surface 65 and an outlet E2 provided on the bottom surface 65 from which ink flows out.

The contour E2A of the exit E2 shown by the broken line in FIG. 9 forms a part of the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65 and is an example of the “first contour”. The contour 65B of the bottom surface 65 shown by the solid line in FIG. 9 forms a part of the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65 and is an example of the “second contour”. The contour E2B of the outlet E2 shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 9 is not included in the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65.

The parts P1 and P2 shown by black circles in FIG. 9 are parts where the contour 65B of the bottom surface 65 and the contour E2A of the exit E2 intersect, form a part of the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65, and are an example of an “intersection”. be. The site P3 indicated by a white circle in FIG. 9 is a site of the contour E2A of the outlet E2 farthest from the sites P1 and P2, and is an example of “a site of the first contour farthest from the intersection”.
The portion E2C indicated by a black star in FIG. 9 is the center of the exit E2 and is hereinafter referred to as the center E2C. The part P4 indicated by a white circle in FIG. 9 is the part of the contour E2B of the outlet E2 farthest from the parts P1 and P2. The portion P5 indicated by a white circle in FIG. 9 is a portion of the contour 65B of the bottom surface 65 of the recess 63 farthest from the portions P1 and P2, and is an example of the “second contour portion farthest from the intersection”. ..

The portion P3 corresponds to the other end E2T2 of the outlet E2 in the Z-axis direction, and the portion P4 corresponds to the one end E2T1 of the outlet E2 in the Z-axis direction. Further, the direction from the part P5 to the part P3 is the + Z axis direction, which is an example of the "first direction".
Further, on the bottom surface 65, the region on the + Z axis direction side (the side closer to the exit E2) with respect to the middle between the parts P3 and the parts P5 is an example of the “exit side”, and will be referred to hereinafter as the exit side ES. On the bottom surface 65, the region on the −Z axis direction side (the side far from the exit E2) with respect to the middle between the parts P3 and the parts P5 is an example of the “opposite side”, and is hereinafter referred to as the opposite side OS.

As shown in FIG. 9, the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65 includes a contour E2A forming the contour of the outlet E2, a contour 65B different from the contour E2A of the outlet E2, and portions P1 and P2 where the contour E2A and the contour 65B intersect. Have. The contour of the outlet E2 is composed of the contour E2A and the contour E2B forming the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65.
Further, when the filter FB is viewed in a plan view, the width of the bottom surface 65 (the dimension of the bottom surface 65 in the Y-axis direction) is gradually reduced with respect to the exit side ES as compared with the opposite side OS.
When the filter FB is viewed in a plan view, the width of the bottom surface 65 gradually decreases with respect to the outlet side ES. Corresponds to the shape. Further, when the contour 65B of the bottom surface 65 becomes thinner in a predetermined direction (+ Z-axis direction and -Z-axis direction), the width of the bottom surface 65 gradually decreases with respect to the exit side ES as compared with the opposite side OS. The exit side ES corresponds to a state in which the contour 65B of the bottom surface 65 is sharply thinner than that of the opposite OS.
That is, the contour 65B at the exit side ES is sharply narrowed in the direction toward the exit E2 (+ Z axis direction) as compared with the contour 65B at the opposite OS. In other words, the contour 65B is provided so as to become thinner when it is closer to the exit E2 and thicker when it is farther from the exit E2 in the exit side ES. In other words, the contour 65B is provided so as to start from the exit E2 and extend radially from the exit E2.

The contour E2A is located on the + Z axis direction side with respect to the portions P1 and P2. The contour 65B is located on the −Z axis direction side with respect to the portions P1 and P2. The contour E2B is located on the −Z axis direction side with respect to the portions P1 and P2. The portions P1 and P2 are located on the −Z axis direction side with respect to the center E2C of the outlet E2.
Further, the contour 65B located on the −Z axis direction side with respect to the portions P1 and P2 is a straight line portion 65B1 extending linearly from the portion P1 in the −Y axis direction and a straight line extending linearly from the portion P2 in the + Y axis direction. It has a portion 65B2 and an arcuate curved portion 65B3 connecting the straight portion 65B1 and the straight portion 65B2. The straight lines 65B1 and 65B2 are provided so as to radiate from the portions P1 and P2 of the outlet E2 as a starting point. The curved portion 65B3 connecting the straight portion 65B1 and the straight portion 65B2 is arranged on the −Z axis direction side with respect to the portions P1 and P2, has an arc shape (circular shape), and is rounded.

As described above, the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment has a first direction from the portion P5 of the contour 65B farthest from the portions P1 and P2 toward the portion P3 of the contour E2A farthest from the portions P1 and P2. When the direction (+ Z axis direction) is set, the contour E2A has a configuration in which the contour E2A is located on the first direction side (+ Z axis direction side) with respect to the portions P1 and P2.
Further, the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment has a configuration in which the portions P1 and P2 are located on the side opposite to the first direction (-Z axis direction side) with respect to the center E2C of the outlet E2. There is.

When the filter FB is viewed in a plan view, the filter FB is larger than the bottom surface 65 and projects from the bottom surface 65. The area of the area where the filter FB and the bottom surface 65 overlap in a plan view is the execution filtration area of the filter FB in which the ink is filtered by the filter FB.
When the execution filtration area of the filter FB is narrowed, the pressure loss when the ink is filtered by the filter FB becomes large, the ink becomes difficult to flow in the flow path between the filter FB and the nozzle N, and the ink flows from the nozzle N. It becomes difficult to discharge properly. When the execution filtration area of the filter FB is widened, the pressure loss when the ink is filtered by the filter FB becomes small, the ink easily flows in the flow path between the filter FB and the nozzle N, and the ink flows from the nozzle N. It becomes easy to discharge properly. Therefore, it is preferable that the execution filtration area of the filter FB is large.

In the present embodiment, in order to increase the execution filtration area of the filter FB, the execution filtration area of the filter FB in the opposite OS is larger than the execution filtration area of the filter FB in the outlet side ES. Since the execution filtration area of the filter FB is the area of the bottom surface 65, the area of the bottom surface 65 of the opposite OS is larger than that of the outlet side ES.
As described above, the curved portion 65B3 connecting the straight portion 65B1 and the straight portion 65B2 is arranged on the −Z axis direction side with respect to the portions P1 and P2, has an arc shape (circular shape), and is rounded. .. When the area where the bottom surface 65 is arranged is the same, if the curved portion 65B3 has a circular shape, the area of the bottom surface 65 (executed filtration area of the filter FB) is wider than that when the curved portion 65B3 has an elliptical shape, for example. can do.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the outlet in FIG. 7, and shows the flow state of the ink in the vicinity of the outlet. FIG. 11 is an enlarged plan view of the vicinity of the outlet in FIG. 9, and shows the flow state of the ink in the vicinity of the outlet. FIG. 12 is a view corresponding to FIG. 10, is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the outlet of the flow path member according to the first modification, and shows the flow state of ink in the vicinity of the outlet. FIG. 13 is a view corresponding to FIG. 11, which is an enlarged plan view of the vicinity of the outlet of the flow path member according to the modified example 2, and shows the flow state of ink in the vicinity of the outlet.
In FIGS. 10 to 13, the flow direction of the ink is indicated by an arrow. Further, in FIG. 12 corresponding to the modified example 1 and FIG. 13 corresponding to the modified example 2, the same reference numerals are given to the same constituent parts as those in the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 10, when the ink flows through the second space S2 and is discharged from the outlet E2, the ink flows in the + Z-axis direction along the slope 66, and the ink flow direction at the outlet E2 is in the + Z-axis direction. To-changes in the X-axis direction.
On the + Z-axis direction side of the outlet E2, that is, near the end E2T2 of the outlet E2, a component that hinders the flow of ink in the + Z-axis direction (sealing body 46, wall surface along the X-axis direction of the outlet E2). Is placed. Therefore, on the + Z-axis direction side of the outlet E2, the ink flow direction is changed from the + Z-axis direction to the −X-axis direction at the outlet E2 while the ink flow is hindered by the component that hinders the ink flow.

The −Z axis direction side of the outlet E2, that is, near the end E2T1 of the outlet E2, is farther from the components that hinder the ink flow than the + Z axis direction side of the outlet E2, so that the ink flow is hindered. The influence of the components to be used is weakened. Further, since the length of the ink flow path near the end E2T1 of the outlet E2 is shorter than the length of the ink flow path near the end E2T2 of the outlet E2, the side near the end E2T1 of the outlet E2. Has a smaller resistance when the ink flows than the side closer to the end E2T2 of the outlet E2.
Therefore, the -Z-axis direction side of the outlet E2 (the side closer to the end E2T1) is less likely to be obstructed by the ink flow than the + Z-axis direction side of the outlet E2 (the side closer to the end E2T2), and -X at the outlet E2. The flow of ink flowing in the axial direction becomes faster.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, the flow of ink flowing in the −X-axis direction at the outlet E2 becomes faster in the hatched region R1 (region R1 on the side closer to the end E2T1) in the figure. It becomes slower in the shaded area R2 (the area R2 on the side closer to the end E2T2).
Hereinafter, the region R1 on the near side of the end E2T1 is referred to as a high flow velocity region R1, and the region R2 on the near side of the end E2T2 is referred to as a low flow velocity region R2. Further, at the outlet E2, the high flow velocity region R1 is arranged between the center E2C and the site P4, and the low flow velocity region R2 is arranged between the center E2C and the site P3.

As described above, the end of the space (flow path chamber 3) in which the bottom surface 65 (recessed portion 63) is sealed by the sealing body 46 is the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65, and is the end of the flow path chamber 3. In other words, the portion where the bottom surface 65 and the sealing body 46 are in contact with each other is the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65, which is the end of the flow path chamber 3. Since the ink flows along the end of the flow path chamber 3 (contour 65A of the bottom surface 65), the flow direction of the ink depends on the shape of the end of the flow path chamber 3 (contour 65A of the bottom surface 65). It becomes possible to control.

In the present embodiment, the straight lines 65B1 and 65B2 forming the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65 are provided so as to radiate from the portions P1 and P2 of the outlet E2 as a starting point, so that the ink flowing in from the inlet E1 is provided. The flow direction of the ink is controlled by the linear portions 65B1 and 65B2, and the ink flows so as to collect at the outlet E2.

If the outlet E2 is provided in the central portion of the bottom surface 65 and does not have the straight portions 65B1 and 65B2 extending radially from the outlet E2, the ink flowing in from the inlet E1 radiates from the inlet E1. As it spreads, it becomes difficult to gather at the exit E2. Therefore, in the flow path chamber 3, ink stagnation occurs in which ink is difficult to be discharged from the outlet E2.
In the present embodiment, even if the ink flowing in from the inlet E1 spreads radially from the inlet E1, the ink spreads radially from the inlet E1 by the straight lines 65B1 and 65B2 that spread radially from the outlet E2. Is collected in the outlet E2, so that the ink flowing in from the inlet E1 is discharged from the outlet E2 without stagnation in the flow path chamber 3. Therefore, when the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are easily discharged from the outlet E2, and the discharge property of the bubbles can be improved.

Further, since the ink collected by the straight portions 65B1 and 65B2 is directed to the high flow velocity region R1 of the outlet E2, the ink is more easily discharged from the outlet E2 as compared with the case where the ink is directed to the low flow velocity region R2 of the outlet E2. When the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are more easily discharged from the outlet E2, and the discharge property of the bubbles can be further improved.

As described above, the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment can obtain the following effects.
(1) Even when the ink flows from the first space S1 to the second space S2 and the filter FB bends from the first space S1 to the second space S2 due to the pressure of the flowing ink. Since the slope 66 is provided so as not to come into contact with the filter FB, it is possible to suppress the problem that air bubbles are trapped in the portion where the filter FB and the slope 66 come into contact with each other and the air bubbles are difficult to be discharged from the flow path chamber 3. Can be done.

(2) When the filter FB bends from the first space S1 to the second space S2 due to the pressure of the flowing ink, the cross-sectional area of the second space S2 becomes smaller and the cross-sectional area of the second space S2 becomes larger than in the case where the cross-sectional area of the second space S2 is large. Since the flow of ink flowing in the second space S2 becomes faster, when the ink flowing into the second space S2 contains air bubbles, the air bubbles do not stay in the second space S2 and are swiftly discharged from the outlet E2. It becomes easier to discharge from the air, and the discharge of air bubbles is enhanced.

(3) When the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles float on the upper side in the direction of gravity due to buoyancy. Therefore, if the outlet E2 is formed on the uppermost side of the flow path chamber 3 (bottom surface 65) in the gravity direction, bubbles floating on the upper side in the gravity direction due to buoyancy are likely to be discharged.

(4) When the straight portions 65B1 and 65B2 that spread radially from the outlet E2 are provided, the ink that flows in from the inlet E1 and spreads radially from the inlet E1 is collected at the outlet E2 by the straight portions 65B1 and 65B2. Is easy to be discharged from the outlet E2, and when the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are easily discharged from the outlet E2, and the discharge property of the bubbles can be improved.

(5) Since the ink collected by the straight portions 65B1 and 65B2 is directed to the high flow velocity region R1 of the outlet E2, the ink is more likely to be discharged from the outlet E2 as compared with the case where the ink is directed to the low flow velocity region R2 of the outlet E2. When the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are easily discharged from the outlet E2, and the discharge property of the bubbles can be improved.
(6) By the above-mentioned (1) to (5), it is possible to improve the discharge property of air bubbles in the flow path member 32. Therefore, the printing device 10 having the flow path member 32 with improved bubble ejection ability suppresses the adverse effect of bubbles, for example, the problem that ink is not properly ejected due to bubbles.

(Modification 1) As shown in FIG. 12, in the flow path member 32A according to the modification 1, the outlet E2 is arranged inside the contour 65A of the bottom surface 65 away from the end of the bottom surface 65, and the outlet E2 is in the + Z axis direction. Not overhanging. On the other hand, in the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment, the outlet E2 is arranged at the end of the bottom surface 65, and the outlet E2 projects on the bottom surface 65 in the + Z axis direction. This point is the difference between the flow path member 32A according to the first modification and the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment, and the other configurations are the same.

Similar to the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment, the flow path member 32A according to the first modification is indicated by an arrow in the drawing when the ink flows through the second space S2 and is discharged from the outlet E2. The ink flows in the + Z-axis direction along the slope 66, and the ink flow direction changes from the + Z-axis direction to the −X-axis direction at the outlet E2.

However, since the end E2T2 of the outlet E2 is arranged away from the end of the bottom surface 65 (contour 65A of the bottom surface 65), it is placed between the end E2T2 of the outlet E2 and the end of the bottom surface 65 (contour 65A of the bottom surface 65). A region (region where the ink stagnates) R3 in which the ink does not easily flow, which is indicated by a two-dot chain line in the figure, is generated. Therefore, when the ink contains bubbles, a part of the ink containing the bubbles tends to stay in the region R3, the bubbles staying in the region R3 are difficult to be discharged from the outlet E2, and the discharge of the bubbles deteriorates.
On the other hand, in the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment, the outlet E2 is arranged at the end of the bottom surface 65, and the above-mentioned ink is formed between the end E2T2 of the outlet E2 and the end of the bottom surface 65 (contour 65A of the bottom surface 65). Compared to the case where the region R3 where the ink is difficult to flow is not generated and the region R3 where the ink is difficult to flow is generated, the ink is more likely to be discharged from the outlet E2, and when the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are more likely to be discharged. .. Therefore, in order to make it easier for the ink to contain air bubbles and discharge the air bubbles from the outlet E2, the configuration of the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment, that is, the end E2T2 of the outlet E2 is the end of the bottom surface 65 (bottom surface). The configuration arranged in the contour 65A) of 65 is preferable.

The configuration in which the outlet E2 protrudes in the + Z axis direction on the bottom surface 65 (the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment) has a configuration in which the outlet E2 does not project in the + Z axis direction on the bottom surface 65 (configuration according to the modification 1). ), The dimension in the + Z axis direction (dimension in the height direction) is longer. In order to shorten the dimension in the + Z axis direction (dimension in the height direction), a configuration in which the outlet E2 does not project in the + Z axis direction on the bottom surface 65 (the flow path member 32A according to the modified example 1) is preferable.
Further, in the flow path member 32A according to the first modification, the effects (1), (2), and (4) of the flow path member 32 according to the above-described first embodiment can be obtained, so that the effect can be put into practical use. It is possible to improve the dischargeability of air bubbles in the flow path member 32A at a level that allows the flow member 32A to be discharged. Then, the printing apparatus 10 having the flow path member 32A according to the present modification suppresses an adverse effect of air bubbles, for example, a problem that ink is not properly ejected due to air bubbles.

(Modification 2) As shown in FIG. 13, in the flow path member 32B according to the modification 2, the portions P1 and P2 of the outlet E2 are located on the + Z axis direction side with respect to the center E2C of the outlet E2. In the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment, the portions P1 and P2 of the outlet E2 are located on the −Z axis direction side with respect to the center E2C of the outlet E2. This point is the difference between the flow path member 32B according to the modified example 2 and the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment, and the other configurations are the same.

In the flow path member 32B according to the second modification, since the portions P1 and P2 of the outlet E2 are located on the + Z axis direction side with respect to the center E2C of the outlet E2, a part of the ink collected by the linear portions 65B1 and 65B2 is It is easy to go to the low flow velocity region R2 at the outlet E2. Therefore, in the flow path member 32B according to the present modification, a part of the ink is likely to be discharged from the low flow velocity region R2 of the outlet E2.
In the flow velocity member 32 according to the present embodiment, since the portions P1 and P2 of the outlet E2 are located on the −Z axis direction side with respect to the center E2C of the outlet E2, the ink collected by the linear portions 65B1 and 65B2 is the outlet E2. It is easy to go to the high flow velocity region R1 and difficult to go to the low flow velocity region R2 at the outlet E2. Therefore, in the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment, the ink is easily discharged from the high flow velocity region R1 of the outlet E2, and a part of the ink is easily discharged from the low flow velocity region R2 of the outlet E2. When the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are easily discharged from the outlet E2, and the discharge property of the bubbles can be improved.
Therefore, in order to make it easier for the ink to contain air bubbles and discharge the air bubbles from the outlet E2, the configuration of the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment, that is, the portions P1 and P2 of the outlet E2 are the center E2C of the outlet E2. A configuration located on the −Z axis direction side is preferable.

On the other hand, in the bottom surface 65, the configuration in which the portions P1 and P2 of the outlet E2 are located on the −Z axis direction side with respect to the center E2C of the outlet E2 (the flow path member 32 according to the present embodiment) is the portion P1 of the outlet E2. The dimension in the + Z axis direction (dimension in the height direction) is longer than that in the configuration in which P2 is located on the + Z axis direction side with respect to the center E2C of the outlet E2 (the flow path member 32B according to the modified example 2). In order to shorten the dimension in the + Z axis direction (dimension in the height direction), the portions P1 and P2 of the outlet E2 are located on the + Z axis direction side with respect to the center E2C of the outlet E2 on the bottom surface 65 (modification example 2). 32B) of the flow path member according to the above is preferable.
Further, in the flow path member 32B according to the second modification, the effects (1) to (4) of the flow path member 32 according to the above-described first embodiment can be obtained, so that the flow path can be put into practical use. It is possible to improve the dischargeability of air bubbles in the member 32B. The printing device 10 having the flow path member 32B according to this modification suppresses the adverse effect of air bubbles, for example, the problem that ink is not properly ejected due to air bubbles.

(Embodiment 2) FIG. 14 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 7, and is a cross-sectional view of a flow path member according to the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a view corresponding to FIG. 9, and is a plan view showing a state of a bottom surface of a flow path member according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 15, the shaded area is the first portion 101 that gradually decreases in the exit side ES, the white circle is the exit E2, and the hatched area is the exit ES and the first portion 101. The second part 102 is connected to.

In the flow path member 32C according to the present embodiment, the outlet E2 and the first portion 101 gradually decreasing at the outlet side ES are separated from each other, and in the flow path member 32 according to the first embodiment, the exit E2 and the exit side ES gradually decrease. It is in contact with the first portion 101. This is the main difference between the present embodiment and the first embodiment.
Hereinafter, the flow path member 32C according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. Further, the same components as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate description will be omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the flow path member 32C according to the present embodiment is separated from the filter FB, the first space S1 provided with the inlet E1 into which the ink flows, and the first space S1 by the filter FB. A second space S2 having a bottom surface 65 facing the filter FB and an outlet E2 provided on the bottom surface 65 from which ink flows out are provided, and the width of the bottom surface 65 (Y-axis of the bottom surface 65) when the filter FB is viewed in a plan view. The dimension in the direction) is gradually reduced with respect to the exit side ES than with the opposite side OS.

The bottom surface 65 has a first portion 101 whose width (dimension in the Y-axis direction of the bottom surface 65) gradually decreases at the outlet side ES, an outlet E2, and a second portion 102 connecting the outlet E2 and the first portion 101. And have. The bottom surface 65 in the first portion 101 is a slope 66 that intersects the Z-axis direction. The bottom surface 65 in the second portion 102 is a vertical plane 69 along the Z-axis direction. The bottom surface 65 in the second portion 102 may be a surface that intersects the Z-axis direction instead of the vertical surface 69 along the Z-axis direction.
The outlet E2 is located away from the tapering first portion 101 at the exit side ES, and the outlet E2 and the first portion 101 are connected by a second portion 102. The width of the second portion 102 (the dimension of the second portion 102 in the Y-axis direction) is the same as the width of the outlet E2 (the diameter of the outlet E2). A high flow velocity region R1 is arranged on the second portion 102 side of the outlet E2.
The straight line portions 65B1 and 65B2 are provided so as to radiate from the end of the second portion 102 on the −Z axis direction side (the boundary between the second portion 102 and the first portion 101 side) as a starting point. ing. Therefore, the ink flowing in from the inlet E1 is collected by the linear portions 65B1 and 65B2 at the end on the −Z axis direction side of the second portion 102, and is the second from the end on the −Z axis direction side of the second portion 102. It flows toward the end of the portion 102 on the + Z axis direction side and reaches the high flow velocity region R1 at the outlet E2.

The second portion 102 has a role of aligning the flow direction of the ink toward the high flow velocity region R1 of the outlet E2 and guiding the ink to the high flow velocity region R1 of the outlet E2. When the ink flow direction is aligned in the direction toward the high flow velocity region R1 of the outlet E2, compared with the case where the ink flow direction is not aligned in the direction toward the high flow velocity region R1 of the outlet E2 (for example, when ink turbulence occurs). Therefore, the ink flows easily, the ink flows faster, the ink is easily discharged from the outlet E2, and when the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are easily discharged from the outlet E2, and the discharge property of the bubbles is improved. Can be done.
As described above, in the flow path member 32C according to the present embodiment, in addition to the effects (1) to (5) of the flow path member 32 according to the above-described first embodiment, the flow directions of the ink toward the outlet E2 are aligned. When the ink flows easily and the ink flows quickly, and the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are easily discharged from the outlet E2, and the discharge property of the bubbles can be improved. The printing device 10 having the flow path member 32C according to the present embodiment suppresses the adverse effects of air bubbles, for example, the problem that ink is not properly ejected due to air bubbles.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and can be appropriately modified as long as it does not contradict the gist or idea of the invention that can be read from the claims and the entire specification. Conceivable. Hereinafter, a modified example will be described.

(Deformation Example 3) FIG. 16 is a view corresponding to FIG. 15, and is a plan view showing a state of a bottom surface of a flow path member according to Deformation Example 3. In this modification, the width of the outlet E2 (diameter of the outlet E2) is longer than the width of the second portion 102 (dimension of the second portion 102 in the Y-axis direction). This is the difference between this modification and the second embodiment.
The same components as those in the second embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate description will be omitted. Hereinafter, the differences from the second embodiment will be mainly described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 16, in the flow path member 32D according to this modification, the width of the outlet E2 is longer than the width of the second portion 102, and the width of the high flow velocity region R1 (in the Y-axis direction of the high flow velocity region R1). Dimension) is longer than the width of the second portion 102. Since the width of the high flow velocity region R1 is longer than the width of the second portion 102, the straight portion 65B1, 65B2 is compared with the case where the width of the high flow velocity region R1 is the same as the width of the second portion 102. The ink collected by is stably guided to the high flow velocity region R1 of the outlet E2 and is surely discharged from the high flow velocity region R1 of the outlet E2. Therefore, the ink containing bubbles is discharged from the high flow velocity region R1 of the outlet E2. It can be reliably discharged.
That is, in the flow path member 32D according to the present modification, the effect (5) of the flow path member 32 according to the above-described first embodiment can be stably and surely obtained. Of course, in the flow path member 32D according to the present modification, the effects (1) to (4) of the flow path member 32 according to the above-described first embodiment can be obtained. Therefore, when the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are generated. It becomes easy to be discharged from the outlet E2, and the discharge property of air bubbles can be improved. The printing device 10 having the flow path member 32D according to this modification suppresses the adverse effect of air bubbles, for example, the problem that ink is not properly ejected due to air bubbles.

The width of the outlet E2 (diameter of the outlet E2) is shorter than the width of the second portion 102 (dimension in the Y-axis direction of the second portion 102), and a part of the ink is in the low flow velocity region of the outlet E2. Even when the bubbles are easily discharged from R2, the bubble discharge property can be enhanced to a level that can be put into practical use, similarly to the flow path member 32B according to the second modification.
That is, the width of the outlet E2 may be the same as the width of the second portion 102, the width of the exit E2 may be longer than the width of the second portion 102, and the width of the exit E2 is the second portion. It may be shorter than the width of 102.

(Deformation Example 4) FIG. 17 is a view corresponding to FIG. 15, and is a plan view showing a state of a bottom surface of a flow path member according to the modification 4.
As shown in FIG. 17, in the flow path member 32E according to this modification, the outlet E2 is arranged inside the second portion 102. This is the difference between this modification and the second embodiment.
When the outlet E2 is arranged inside the second portion 102, the flow direction of the ink toward the outlet E2 is aligned, the ink flows easily and the ink flows faster, so that if the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are present. Can be easily discharged from the outlet E2, and the discharge of air bubbles can be improved.
Of course, in the flow path member 32E according to the present modification, the effects (1) to (4) of the flow path member 32 according to the above-described first embodiment can be obtained. Then, the printing apparatus 10 having the flow path member 32E according to the present modification suppresses an adverse effect of air bubbles, for example, a problem that ink is not properly ejected due to air bubbles.

(Deformation Example 5) FIG. 18 is a view corresponding to FIG. 15, and is a plan view showing a state of a bottom surface of a flow path member according to the modification 5.
As shown in FIG. 18, in the flow path member 32F according to the present modification, the outlet E2 is arranged inside the first portion 101, and the second portion 102 is not provided. This is the difference between this modification and the second embodiment. Even when the outlet E2 is arranged inside the first portion 101, the straight portions 65B1 and 65B2 collect the ink in the direction toward the outlet E2, so that if the ink contains bubbles, the bubbles are collected at the outlet E2. It becomes easy to be discharged from the air bubble, and the discharge property of air bubbles can be improved.

(Deformation Example 6) In the first embodiment, the flow path member 32 is vertically placed so that the dimension in the width direction is short and the dimension in the height direction is long. The flow path member 32 may be horizontally placed so that the dimension in the width direction is long and the dimension in the height direction is short.
If the flow path member 32 is placed horizontally, the inlet E1 is placed on the upper side in the gravity direction, and the outlet E2 is placed on the lower side in the gravity direction, the ink tends to flow in the weight direction, so that the ink is in the gravity direction. It becomes easy to flow from the inlet E1 arranged on the upper side toward the outlet E2 arranged on the lower side in the direction of gravity, and when the ink contains air bubbles, the air bubbles are easily discharged from the outlet E2, and the air bubbles can be discharged easily. Can be enhanced.

Further, the flow path member according to the above-described embodiment or modification can be applied to a printing device (liquid ejection device) different from the printing device 10. For example, a color material discharge device having a color material discharge head used for manufacturing a color filter such as a liquid crystal display, an electrode material discharge head used for electrode formation of an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, a FED (surface emitting display), etc. The present invention can also be applied to an electrode material ejection device having an electrode material, a bioorganic substance ejection device having a bioorganic substance ejection head used for manufacturing a biochip (biochemical element), and the like.

Further, in the above-described embodiment and modification, the slope 66 of the bottom surface 65 forming the flow path chamber 3 includes not only a flat surface but also a curved surface.

(Modification 7) FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the bottom surface 65 of the flow path member 32 of the modification 7 along the VV line of FIG. 6, and FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along the VI-VI line of FIG. It is sectional drawing of the bottom surface of the flow path member which concerns on modification 7. FIG. As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the range M1 including the portion M of the bottom surface 65 that is most distant from the filter FA is a curved surface having a concave filter FA side. According to this configuration, since the portion M most distant from the filter FA has a curved surface, it is difficult for bubbles to be caught in the portion M, so that the dischargeability of bubbles can be improved.

Further, the portion M of the bottom surface 65 that is most distant from the filter FA may be a curved surface, and a plane inclined so as to approach the filter FA may be continuous with the curved surface between the portion M and the outlet E2. .. In FIG. 19, the range M1 of the bottom surface 65 is a curved surface, and the range M2 continuous with the range M1 up to the exit E2 is an inclined plane. With this configuration, the cross-sectional area of the range M2 can be made smaller than the cross-sectional area of the range M1 between the portion M of the bottom surface 65 that is most distant from the filter FA and the outlet E2. Since the flow velocity can be increased, the air bubble discharge property can be improved. The cross-sectional area here is a cross-sectional area that intersects in the direction from the portion M most distant from the filter FA toward the outlet E2, and specifically, is a cross-sectional area of a cross-sectional area cut in the XY plane. The range M2 of the bottom surface 65 may be a curved surface having a curvature larger than the curved surface of the range M1. Even with this configuration, the cross-sectional area of the range M2 can be made smaller than the cross-sectional area of the range M1 between the portion M most distant from the filter FA and the outlet E2, so that the flow velocity can be increased until the outlet E2. Therefore, the dischargeability of air bubbles can be improved.

1,2,3 ... Flow chamber, 5 ... Joint, 6 ... Fixed part, 10 ... Printing device, 12 ... Medium, 14 ... Liquid container, 26 ... Liquid supply unit, 32 ... Flow member, 34 ... Liquid discharge Head, 42 ... Base, 44,46 ... Sealed body, 61,62,63 ... Recessed, 65 ... Bottom, 65A ... Contour, 66 ... Slope, E1 ... Entrance, E2 ... Exit, S1 ... First space, S2 ... Second space, T ... filter end, FA, FB ... filter, E2T1, E2T2 ... exit end.

Claims (21)

With a filter
The first space with an inlet for liquid to flow in,
A second space separated from the first space by the filter and having an outlet through which the liquid flows out and a bottom surface facing the filter.
The bottom surface includes a slope away from the filter from the edge of the filter toward the center when the filter is viewed in a plan view.
The flow path member, characterized in that the outlet is in the middle of the slope and is closer to the end of the filter than the portion of the slope that is most distant from the filter . The flow path member according to claim 1, wherein when the filter is viewed in a plan view, the width of the contour of the bottom surface is gradually reduced with respect to the outlet side as compared with the opposite side. With a filter
The first space with an inlet for liquid to flow in,
A second space separated from the first space by the filter and having a bottom surface facing the filter.
Provided on the bottom surface and provided with an outlet through which the liquid flows out.
A flow path member characterized in that the width of the contour of the bottom surface is gradually reduced with respect to the outlet side as compared with the opposite side when the filter is viewed in a plan view. When the direction perpendicular to the direction from the first space to the second space is defined as the first direction, and the direction orthogonal to both the direction and the first direction is defined as the second direction.
When the filter is viewed in a plan view, the width of the contour of the bottom surface in the second direction is characterized in that the width with respect to the outlet side is gradually reduced with respect to the first direction as compared with the opposite side.
The flow path member according to claim 2 or 3. The bottom surface is
The first portion where the width gradually decreases on the exit side, and
It is characterized by connecting the outlet and the first portion and having a second portion having the same width as the outlet.
The flow path member according to any one of claims 2 to 4 . With a filter
The first space with an inlet for liquid to flow in,
A second space separated from the first space by the filter and having a bottom surface facing the filter.
Provided on the bottom surface and provided with an outlet through which the liquid flows out.
When the filter is viewed in a plan view, the width of the bottom surface gradually decreases with respect to the outlet side as compared with the opposite side.
The bottom surface is
The first portion where the width gradually decreases on the exit side, and
It is characterized by connecting the outlet and the first portion and having a second portion having the same width as the outlet.
Channel member. With a filter
The first space with an inlet for liquid to flow in,
A second space separated from the first space by the filter and having an outlet through which the liquid flows out and a bottom surface facing the filter.
The bottom surface includes a slope away from the filter from the edge of the filter toward the center when the filter is viewed in a plan view.
The exit is in the middle of the slope
The contour of the bottom surface is characterized by having a first contour forming the contour of the outlet, a second contour different from the contour of the outlet, and an intersection of the first contour and the second contour. To
Channel member . With a filter
The first space with an inlet for liquid to flow in,
A second space separated from the first space by the filter and having a bottom surface facing the filter.
Provided on the bottom surface and provided with an outlet through which the liquid flows out.
When the filter is viewed in a plan view, the width of the bottom surface gradually decreases with respect to the outlet side as compared with the opposite side.
The contour of the bottom surface is characterized by having a first contour forming the contour of the outlet, a second contour different from the contour of the outlet, and an intersection of the first contour and the second contour. To
Channel member. The contour of the bottom surface has a first contour forming the contour of the outlet, a second contour different from the contour of the outlet, and an intersection of the first contour and the second contour. Features
The flow path member according to any one of claims 2 to 6 . When the direction from the portion of the second contour farthest from the intersection toward the portion of the first contour farthest from the intersection is defined as the first direction.
The first contour is characterized in that it is located on the first direction side with respect to the intersection.
The flow path member according to any one of claims 7 to 9 . The intersection is characterized in that it is located on the side opposite to the first direction with respect to the center of the exit.
The flow path member according to claim 10 . When the filter is viewed in a plan view, a fixing portion fixed to the end of the filter is provided on the outside of the outer shape of the bottom surface.
The flow path member according to any one of claims 2 to 11 . The filter is placed along a direction that intersects the horizontal plane.
The outlet is located on the bottom surface at the uppermost position in the direction of gravity .
The flow path member according to claim 1 to 12 . With a filter
The first space with an inlet for liquid to flow in,
A second space separated from the first space by the filter and having an outlet through which the liquid flows out and a bottom surface facing the filter.
The bottom surface includes a slope away from the filter from the edge of the filter toward the center when the filter is viewed in a plan view.
The exit is in the middle of the slope
The filter is placed along a direction that intersects the horizontal plane.
The outlet is located on the bottom surface at the uppermost position in the direction of gravity.
Channel member. With a filter
The first space with an inlet for liquid to flow in,
A second space separated from the first space by the filter and having a bottom surface facing the filter.
Provided on the bottom surface and provided with an outlet through which the liquid flows out.
When the filter is viewed in a plan view, the width of the bottom surface gradually decreases with respect to the outlet side as compared with the opposite side.
The filter is placed along a direction that intersects the horizontal plane.
The outlet is located on the bottom surface at the uppermost position in the direction of gravity.
Channel member. When the liquid flows from the first space toward the second space and the filter bends from the first space toward the second space, the slope is said from the first space of the filter. The flow path member according to any one of claims 1 , 2 , 7, and 14 , characterized in that it is along a deflection toward a second space. The bottom surface is characterized in that the portion most distant from the filter is a curved surface.
The flow path member according to any one of claims 1 to 16 . From the portion of the bottom surface farthest from the filter to the outlet, a plane inclined toward the filter is continuous with the curved surface, or a curved surface having a curvature larger than the curved surface is continuous. To
The flow path member according to claim 17 . With a filter
The first space with an inlet for liquid to flow in,
A second space separated from the first space by the filter and having an outlet through which the liquid flows out and a bottom surface facing the filter.
The bottom surface includes a slope away from the filter from the edge of the filter toward the center when the filter is viewed in a plan view.
The exit is in the middle of the slope
The portion of the bottom surface that is most distant from the filter is a curved surface.
From the portion of the bottom surface farthest from the filter to the outlet, a plane inclined toward the filter is continuous with the curved surface, or a curved surface having a curvature larger than the curved surface is continuous. To
Channel member. With a filter
The first space with an inlet for liquid to flow in,
A second space separated from the first space by the filter and having a bottom surface facing the filter.
Provided on the bottom surface and provided with an outlet through which the liquid flows out.
When the filter is viewed in a plan view, the width of the bottom surface gradually decreases with respect to the outlet side as compared with the opposite side.
The portion of the bottom surface that is most distant from the filter is a curved surface.
From the portion of the bottom surface farthest from the filter to the outlet, a plane inclined toward the filter is continuous with the curved surface, or a curved surface having a curvature larger than the curved surface is continuous. To
Channel member. The flow path member according to any one of claims 1 to 20 ,
A liquid ejection device including a nozzle for ejecting a liquid from the flow path member.

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