[0001] The present application is based on, and claims priority from
JP Application Serial Number 2018-239217, filed December 21, 2018,
JP Application Serial Number 2018-239219, filed December 21, 2018,
JP Application Serial Number 2018-239220, filed December 21, 2018,
JP Application Serial Number 2019-056087, filed March 25, 2019, and
JP Application Serial Number 2019-140488, filed July 31, 2019, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
1. Technical Field
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a liquid ejecting head and a liquid ejecting apparatus.
2. Related Art
[0003] Hitherto, a liquid ejecting head that ejects a liquid, such as ink, from a plurality
of nozzles has been proposed. For example,
JP-A-2013-184372 discloses a configuration in which a liquid is ejected from nozzles by changing pressures
inside pressure chambers that are in communication with the nozzles.
[0004] In liquid ejecting heads of recent years, there is a very high demand for high density
nozzles. However, when a large number of nozzles are formed with high density, a phenomenon
(hereinafter, referred to as "crosstalk") in which a pressure change in one of the
pressure chambers affects a pressure change in an adjacent pressure chamber occurs,
which becomes a problem. When crosstalk occurs, errors occur in ink ejection characteristics
of each nozzle.
SUMMARY
[0005] In order to overcome the above issue, a liquid ejecting head according to an aspect
of the present disclosure includes a plurality of nozzles that eject a liquid along
a first axis, a row of individual flow paths that includes a plurality of individual
flow paths arranged in parallel along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis when
viewed in a direction of the first axis, and a common liquid chamber that is commonly
in communication with the plurality of individual flow paths. In the liquid ejecting
head, the plurality of individual flow paths include a first individual flow path
and a second individual flow path that are adjacent to each other in the row of individual
flow paths, and a position of a first opening that is a connection port between the
common liquid chamber and the first individual flow path and a position of a second
opening that is a connection port between the common liquid chamber and the second
individual flow path are different in the direction of the first axis.
[0006] A liquid ejecting head according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes
a plurality of nozzles that eject a liquid along a first axis, a row of individual
flow paths that includes a plurality of individual flow paths arranged in parallel
along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis when viewed in a direction of the
first axis, a first common liquid chamber that is commonly in communication with the
plurality of individual flow paths, and a second common liquid chamber that is commonly
in communication with the plurality of individual flow paths. In the liquid ejecting
head, the plurality of individual flow paths include a first individual flow path
and a second individual flow path that are adjacent to each other in the row of individual
flow paths, a position of a first opening that is a connection port between the first
common liquid chamber and the first individual flow path and a position of a second
opening that is a connection port between the first common liquid chamber and the
second individual flow path are different in the direction of the first axis, and
a position of a third opening that is a connection port between the second common
liquid chamber and the first individual flow path and a position of a fourth opening
that is a connection port between the second common liquid chamber and the second
individual flow path are different in the direction of the first axis.
[0007] A liquid ejecting head according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes
a plurality of nozzles that eject a liquid along a first axis, a row of individual
flow paths that includes a plurality of individual flow paths arranged in parallel
along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis when viewed in a direction of the
first axis, and a common liquid chamber that is commonly in communication with the
plurality of individual flow paths. In the liquid ejecting head, the plurality of
individual flow paths include a first individual flow path and a second individual
flow path that are adjacent to each other in the row of individual flow paths, and
a direction of a first opening that is a connection port between the common liquid
chamber and the first individual flow path and a direction of a second opening that
is a connection port between the common liquid chamber and the second individual flow
path are different.
[0008] A liquid ejecting head according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes
a plurality of nozzles that eject a liquid along a first axis, a row of individual
flow paths that includes a plurality of individual flow paths arranged in parallel
along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis when viewed in a direction of the
first axis, a first common liquid chamber that is commonly in communication with the
plurality of individual flow paths, and a second common liquid chamber that is commonly
in communication with the plurality of individual flow paths. In the liquid ejecting
head, the plurality of individual flow paths include a first individual flow path
and a second individual flow path that are adjacent to each other in the row of individual
flow paths, a direction of a first opening that is a connection port between the first
common liquid chamber and the first individual flow path and a direction of a second
opening that is a connection port between the first common liquid chamber and the
second individual flow path are different, and a direction of a third opening that
is a connection port between the second common liquid chamber and the first individual
flow path and a direction of a fourth opening that is a connection port between the
second common liquid chamber and the second individual flow path are different. Note
that the present disclosure is specified as a liquid ejecting apparatus that includes
the liquid ejecting head according to each of the aspects described above.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a liquid ejecting apparatus
according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a liquid ejecting head.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid ejecting head.
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid ejecting head.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of flow paths formed in the liquid ejecting head.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a first individual flow path.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a second individual flow path.
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a first common liquid chamber on a first individual
flow path side.
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the first common liquid chamber on a second individual
flow path side.
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a second common liquid chamber on the first individual
flow path side.
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the second common liquid chamber on the second
individual flow path side.
DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
Exemplary Embodiment
[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a liquid ejecting apparatus
100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The liquid ejecting apparatus
100 of the present exemplary embodiment is an ink jet printing apparatus that ejects
ink, which is an example of a liquid, on a medium 12. While the medium 12 is typically
printing paper, an object to be printed formed of any material, such as a resin film
or fabric, is used as the medium 12. As illustrated as an example in FIG. 1, a liquid
container 14 that stores ink is installed in the liquid ejecting apparatus 100. For
example, a cartridge configured to detach from the liquid ejecting apparatus 100,
a bag-shaped ink pack formed of flexible film, or an ink tank into which ink can be
refilled is used as the liquid container 14. A plurality of types of inks of different
colors are stored in the liquid container 14.
[0011] As illustrated as an example in FIG. 1, the liquid ejecting apparatus 100 includes
a control unit 20, a transport mechanism 22, a moving mechanism 24, and a liquid ejecting
head 26. The control unit 20 includes a processing circuit such as a central processing
unit (CPU) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA) and a memory circuit such as
a semiconductor memory, and controls each element of the liquid ejecting apparatus
100 in an integrated manner. The transport mechanism 22 transports the medium 12 in
a Y-axis direction under the control of the control unit 20.
[0012] The moving mechanism 24 transports the liquid ejecting head 26 in an X-axis direction
under the control of the control unit 20. The X-axis intersects the Y-axis along which
the medium 12 is transported. Typically, the X-axis and the Y-axis are orthogonal
to each other. The moving mechanism 24 of the present exemplary embodiment includes
a substantially box-shaped transport body 82 that houses the liquid ejecting head
26, and a transport belt 84 to which the transport body 82 is fixed. Note that a configuration
in which a plurality of liquid ejecting heads 26 are mounted in the transport body
82 or a configuration in which the liquid container 14 is mounted in the transport
body 82 together with the liquid ejecting head 26 can be adopted.
[0013] Under the control of the control unit 20, the liquid ejecting head 26 ejects ink,
which is supplied from the liquid container 14, onto the medium 12 through a plurality
of nozzles. The control unit 20 generates various signals and voltages for ejecting
ink from the nozzles and supplies the signals and voltages to the liquid ejecting
head 26. The ink is ejected along a Z-axis. The Z-axis is an axis that is perpendicular
to an XY plane. In other words, the X-axis and the Y-axis are orthogonal to the Z-axis.
The Z-axis is an example of a "first axis", the Y-axis is an example of a "second
axis", and the X-axis is an example of a "third axis". Concurrently with the transportation
of the medium 12 performed with the transport mechanism 22 and the repetitive reciprocation
of the transport body 82, the liquid ejecting head 26 ejects ink onto the medium 12
to form a desired image on a surface of the medium 12.
[0014] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid ejecting head 26. As illustrated
as an example in FIG. 2, the liquid ejecting head 26 includes a plurality of nozzles
N arranged in the Y-axis direction. The plurality of nozzles N of the present exemplary
embodiment are divided into a first line L1 and a second line L2 that are parallelly
arranged with a space in between in the X-axis direction. The first line L1 and the
second line L2 are each a set of a plurality of nozzles N linearly arranged in the
Y-axis direction. As illustrated as an example in FIG. 2, positions of the nozzles
N of the first line L1 and positions of the nozzles N of the second line L2 are different
in the Y-axis. Specifically, when viewed in the X-axis direction, a single nozzle
N of the second line L2 is positioned between two adjacent nozzles N of the first
line L1.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 is
a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. 2. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional
view of elements related to a single nozzle N in the first line L1, and FIG. 4 is
a cross-sectional view of elements related to a single nozzle N in the second line
L2. As it can be understood from FIGS. 3 and 4, the elements related to each nozzle
N of the first line L1 and the elements related to each nozzle N of the second line
L2 are in an inverted relationship with respect to a YZ plane.
[0016] As illustrated as an example in FIGS. 2 to 4, the liquid ejecting head 26 includes
a flow path structure 30. The flow path structure 30 forms flow paths that supply
ink to the nozzles N. As illustrated as an example in FIG. 2, a diaphragm 42, a protective
substrate 46, and a housing portion 48 are provided on the negative side in the Z-axis
direction with respect to the flow path structure 30. On the other hand, a nozzle
plate 62, a first vibration absorber 64, and a second vibration absorber 65 are provided
on the positive side in the Z-axis direction with respect to a flow path substrate
32. Generally, each element of the liquid ejecting head 26 is a plate-shaped member
elongated along the Y-axis and is connected to each other using an adhesive agent,
for example.
[0017] The nozzle plate 62 is a plate-shaped member in which a plurality of nozzles N are
formed and is provided on a surface of the flow path structure 30 on the positive
side in the Z-axis direction. Each of the plurality of nozzles N is a circular through
hole through which ink passes. In the nozzle plate 62 of the present exemplary embodiment,
the plurality of nozzles N constituting the first line L1 and the plurality of nozzles
N constituting the second line L2 are formed. The nozzle plate 62 is manufactured
by processing a single crystal substrate formed of silicon using a semiconductor manufacturing
technique such as, for example, dry etching or wet etching. However, any known materials
and any known manufacturing methods can be adopted to manufacture the nozzle plate
62.
[0018] As illustrated as an example in FIG. 2 to 4, the flow path structure 30 includes
the flow path substrate 32 and a pressure chamber substrate 34. The flow path substrate
32 is positioned on the positive side in the Z-axis direction in the flow path structure
30, and the pressure chamber substrate 34 is positioned on the negative side in the
Z-axis direction in the flow path structure 30. As illustrated as an example in FIG.
2, a space Ka1 and a space Ka2 are formed in the flow path substrate 32. The space
Ka1 and the space Ka2 are each an opening elongated along the Y-axis. The space Ka1
is formed, in the flow path substrate 32, on the positive side in the X-axis direction,
and the space Ka2 is formed, in the flow path substrate 32, on the negative side in
the X-axis direction.
[0019] The flow path substrate 32 of the present exemplary embodiment is formed of layers
including a first substrate 321 and a second substrate 322. The first substrate 321
is positioned between the second substrate 322 and the pressure chamber substrate
34. As illustrated as an example in FIGS. 3 and 4, the space Ka1 is formed across
the first substrate 321 and the second substrate 322. Similarly, the space Ka2 is
formed across the first substrate 321 and the second substrate 322.
[0020] The housing portion 48 is a case for storing the ink. A space Kb1 corresponding to
the space Ka1 and a space Kb2 corresponding to the space Ka2 are formed in the housing
portion 48. The space Ka1 of the flow path structure 30 and the space Kb1 of the housing
portion 48 are in communication with each other and the space Ka2 of the flow path
structure 30 and space Kb2 of the housing portion 48 are in communication with each
other. The space formed by the space Ka1 and the space Kb1 functions as a first common
liquid chamber K1, and the space formed by space Ka2 and the space Kb2 functions as
a second common liquid chamber K2. The first common liquid chamber K1 and the second
common liquid chamber K2 are each a space commonly formed across a plurality of nozzles
N and each store ink suppled to the plurality of nozzles N.
[0021] An introduction port 481 and a discharge port 482 are formed in the housing portion
48. The ink is supplied to the first common liquid chamber K1 through the introduction
port 481. The ink inside the second common liquid chamber K2 is discharged through
the discharge port 482. As illustrated as an example in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first vibration
absorber 64 is a flexible film constituting a portion of the wall surface of the first
common liquid chamber K1. The portion (hereinafter, referred to as a "first deforming
portion 641") in the first vibration absorber 64 that becomes deformed in response
to a pressure change of the ink inside the first common liquid chamber K1 is where
the first vibration absorber 64 constitute the portion of the wall surface of the
first common liquid chamber K1. In other words, a portion of the first vibration absorber
64 that is not fixed to a surface of the flow path substrate 32 is the first deforming
portion 641. The first deforming portion 641 absorbs the pressure change of the ink
inside the first common liquid chamber K1 by becoming deformed according to the pressure
change inside the first common liquid chamber K1. As understood from the description
above, the first common liquid chamber K1 includes the first deforming portion 641.
[0022] The second vibration absorber 65 is a flexible film constituting a portion of the
wall surface of the second common liquid chamber K2. The portion (hereinafter, referred
to as a "second deforming portion 651") in the second vibration absorber 65 that becomes
deformed in response to a pressure change of the ink inside the second common liquid
chamber K2 is where the second vibration absorber 65 constitute the portion of the
wall surface of the second common liquid chamber K2. In other words, a portion of
the second vibration absorber 65 that is not fixed to a surface of the flow path substrate
32 is the second deforming portion 651. The second deforming portion 651 absorbs the
pressure change of the ink inside the second common liquid chamber K2 by becoming
deformed according to the pressure change inside the second common liquid chamber
K2. As understood from the description above, the second common liquid chamber K2
includes the second deforming portion 651.
[0023] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the flow paths formed in the liquid ejecting head
26. As illustrated as an example in FIG. 5, an individual flow path Q is formed for
each nozzle N in the flow path structure 30. In other words, a plurality of individual
flow paths Q are each formed for a corresponding one of a plurality of nozzles N.
As illustrated as an example in FIGS. 3 and 4, the nozzles N are formed in the nozzle
plate 62 in portions where the wall surfaces of the individual flow paths Q are formed.
In other words, each nozzle N is formed so as to branch out from the corresponding
individual flow path Q. The first common liquid chamber K1 and the second common liquid
chamber K2 are in communication with each other through the individual flow paths
Q. Specifically, the individual flow paths Q are formed so that the space Ka1 of the
first common liquid chamber K1 and the space Ka2 of the second common liquid chamber
K2 communicate with each other. The individual flow paths Q are flow paths formed
from an inner wall surface of the first common liquid chamber K1 to an inner wall
surface of the second common liquid chamber K2. The individual flow paths Q corresponding
to the nozzles N of the first line L1 and the individual flow paths Q corresponding
to the nozzles N of the second line L2 are in an inverted relationship with respect
to the YZ plane.
[0024] As illustrated as an example in FIG. 5, the plurality of individual flow paths Q
are arranged in parallel to each other and along the Y-axis. In other words, a row
of individual flow paths that includes the plurality of individual flow paths Q are
formed. Specifically, the individual flow paths Q corresponding to the nozzles N of
the first line L1 and the individual flow paths Q corresponding to the nozzles N of
the second line L2 are arranged alternately in the Y-axis direction. As understood
from the description above, the plurality of individual flow paths Q are in communication
with both the first common liquid chamber K1 and the second common liquid chamber
K2. In the ink that is supplied to the individual flow paths Q from the first common
liquid chamber K1, the ink that is not ejected through the nozzles N is stored in
the second common liquid chamber K2.
[0025] As illustrated as an example in FIG. 5, the liquid ejecting apparatus 100 includes
a circulation mechanism 90. The circulation mechanism 90 is a mechanism that recirculates
the ink, which is to be discharged from the liquid ejecting head 26, to the liquid
ejecting head 26. The circulation mechanism 90 is a mechanism that circulates the
ink that is supplied to the liquid ejecting head 26 and includes, for example, a supply
flow path 91, a discharge flow path 92, and a circulation pump 93.
[0026] The supply flow path 91 is a flow path that supplies the ink to the first common
liquid chamber K1 and is coupled to the introduction port 481 of the first common
liquid chamber K1. The discharge flow path 92 is a flow path that discharges the ink
from the second common liquid chamber K2 and is coupled to the discharge port 482
of the second common liquid chamber K2. The circulation pump 93 is a pumping mechanism
that sends the ink supplied through the discharge flow path 92 to the supply flow
path 91. In other words, the ink discharged from the second common liquid chamber
K2 is recirculated to the first common liquid chamber K1 through the discharge flow
path 92, the circulation pump 93, and the supply flow path 91. As understood from
the description above, the circulation mechanism 90 functions as an element that collects
the ink from the second common liquid chamber K2 and that recirculates the collected
ink to the first common liquid chamber K1. Note that a configuration in which the
circulation mechanism 90 collects the ink from the first common liquid chamber K1
and that recirculates the ink to the second common liquid chamber K2 may be adopted
as well.
[0027] As illustrated as an example in FIG. 5, each individual flow path Q includes a pressure
chamber C. As illustrated as an example in FIG. 2, the pressure chambers C are formed
in the pressure chamber substrate 34. The pressure chamber substrate 34 is a plate-shaped
member in which the plurality of pressure chambers C are each formed for a corresponding
one of the plurality of nozzles N. Each pressure chamber C is a space elongated along
the X-axis in plan view. As illustrated as an example in FIGS. 2 and 3, the plurality
of pressure chambers C corresponding to the nozzles N of the first line L1 are arranged
in the Y-axis direction and in a portion in the pressure chamber substrate 34 on the
positive side in the X-axis direction. As illustrated as an example in FIG. 4, the
plurality of pressure chambers C corresponding to the nozzles N of the second line
L2 are arranged in the Y-axis direction and in a portion in the pressure chamber substrate
34 on the negative side in the X-axis direction. Each pressure chamber C overlaps
the corresponding nozzle N in plan view.
[0028] Similar to the nozzle plate 62 described above, the flow path substrate 32 and the
pressure chamber substrate 34 are manufactured by processing a single crystal substrate
formed of silicon using a semiconductor manufacturing technique, for example. However,
any known materials and any known manufacturing methods can be adopted to manufacture
the flow path substrate 32 and the pressure chamber substrate 34.
[0029] As illustrated as an example in FIG. 2, the diaphragm 42 is formed on a surface of
the pressure chamber substrate 34 on a side opposite the flow path substrate 32. The
diaphragm 42 of the present exemplary embodiment is a plate-shaped member configured
to vibrate elastically. Note that portions or the entire diaphragm 42 can be formed
so as to be integrated with the pressure chamber substrate 34 by selectively removing
portions of a plate-shaped member, having a predetermined plate thickness, corresponding
to the pressure chambers C in the plate thickness direction. The pressure chambers
C are spaces located between the flow path substrate 32 and the diaphragm 42.
[0030] As illustrated as an example in FIGS. 2 to 4, energy generating portions 44 are formed
on a surface of the diaphragm 42 on a side opposite the pressure chambers C. The energy
generating portions 44 are each formed for a corresponding nozzle N. The plurality
of energy generating portions 44 are each formed for a corresponding one of the plurality
of nozzles N. Each energy generating portion 44 generates energy for ejecting ink.
Specifically, the energy generating portions 44 are each a drive element that ejects
ink through the corresponding nozzle N by changing the pressure inside the corresponding
pressure chamber C. In the present exemplary embodiment, piezoelectric elements are
used as the energy generating portions 44. The piezoelectric elements each change
the volume of the corresponding pressure chamber C by deforming the diaphragm 42.
In other words, each energy generating portion 44 generates a pressure for ejecting
ink. Specifically, each energy generating portion 44 is an actuator that becomes deformed
by having a drive signal supplied thereto and is formed so as to be elongated along
the X-axis in plan view. The plurality of energy generating portions 44 are arranged
in the Y-axis direction so as to correspond to the plurality of pressure chambers
C. When the diaphragm 42 working together with the deformation of the energy generating
portions 44 is vibrated, the pressure inside each pressure chamber C is changed, which
ejects the ink filled in each pressure chamber C through the corresponding nozzle
N.
[0031] The protective substrate 46 in FIG. 2 is a plate-shaped member that, while protecting
the plurality of energy generating portions 44, reinforces the mechanical strength
of the diaphragm 42. The protective substrate 46 is mounted on a side opposite the
pressure chamber substrate 34 so that the protective substrate 46 and the pressure
chamber substrate 34 interpose the diaphragm 42 in between. The plurality of energy
generating portions 44 are mounted between the protective substrate 46 and the diaphragm
42. The protective substrate 46 is formed of silicon (Si), for example. As illustrated
as an example in FIGS. 3 and 4, a wiring substrate 50, for example, is joined to a
surface of the diaphragm 42. The wiring substrate 50 is a mounted component in which
a plurality of wires that electrically couple the control unit 20 or a power supply
circuit and the liquid ejecting head 26 to each other are formed. The flexible wiring
substrate 50 such as, for example, a flexible printed circuit (FPC) or a flexible
flat cable (FFC) is desirably used. A drive circuit 52 mounted on the wiring substrate
50 supplies a drive signal to each energy generating portion 44.
[0032] In the following description, between two individual flow paths Q adjacent to each
other in the Y-axis direction, one is denoted as a "first individual flow path Q1"
and the other is denoted as a "second individual flow path Q2". FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional
view of the first individual flow path Q1 and FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of
the second individual flow path Q2. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the individual flow
path Q illustrated as an example in FIG. 3 and FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the individual
flow path Q illustrated as an example in FIG. 4.
[0033] The first individual flow path Q1 is an individual flow path Q corresponding to any
single nozzle N (hereinafter, referred to as a "first nozzle N1") in the first line
L1, and the second individual flow path Q2 is an individual flow path Q corresponding
to any single nozzle N (hereinafter, referred to as a "second nozzle N2") in the second
line L2. The first nozzle N1 and the second nozzle N2 are, among the plurality of
nozzles N formed in the nozzle plate 62, two nozzles N adjacent to each other when
viewed in the X-axis direction. Furthermore, among the plurality of pressure chambers
C, the pressure chamber C corresponding to the first individual flow path Q1 is denoted
as a "first pressure chamber C1", and among the plurality of pressure chambers C,
the pressure chamber C corresponding to the second individual flow path Q2 is denoted
as a "second pressure chamber C2". The first individual flow path Q1 and the second
individual flow path Q2 are in an inverted relationship with respect to an XZ plane.
Note that a flow path resistance R of the first individual flow path Q1 and a flow
path resistance R of the second individual flow path Q2 are substantially the same.
[0034] As illustrated as an example in FIG. 6, a first opening 01 that is a connection port
between the first individual flow path Q1 and the first common liquid chamber K1 is
formed in a wall surface of the first common liquid chamber K1. It can also be said
that an interface between the first common liquid chamber K1 and the first individual
flow path Q1 is the first opening 01. On the other hand, a third opening O3 that is
a connection port between the second common liquid chamber K2 and the first individual
flow path Q1 is formed in a wall surface of the second common liquid chamber K2. It
can also be said that an interface between the second common liquid chamber K2 and
the first individual flow path Q1 is the third opening O3. As understood from the
description above, a flow path from the first opening O1 to the third opening O3 is
the first individual flow path Q1.
[0035] Furthermore, as illustrated as an example in FIG. 7, a second opening O2 that is
a connection port between the second individual flow path Q2 and the first common
liquid chamber K1 is formed in a wall surface of the first common liquid chamber K1.
It can also be said that an interface between the first common liquid chamber K1 and
the second individual flow path Q2 is the second opening O2. A fourth opening O4 that
is a connection port between the second common liquid chamber K2 and the second individual
flow path Q2 is formed in a wall surface of the second common liquid chamber K2. It
can also be said that an interface between the second common liquid chamber K2 and
the second individual flow path Q2 is the fourth opening O4. As understood from the
description above, a flow path from the second opening O2 to the fourth opening O4
is the second individual flow path Q2.
[0036] As illustrated as an example in FIG. 6, the first individual flow path Q1 includes
a first communication flow path Q11 and a second communication flow path Q12. The
first communication flow path Q11 allows the first common liquid chamber K1 and the
first nozzle N1 to communicate with each other. Specifically, the first communication
flow path Q11 is a flow path from the first opening 01 formed in the wall surface
of the space Ka1 to an opening of the first nozzle N1 on the negative side in the
Z-axis direction. The first communication flow path Q11 of the present exemplary embodiment
includes a first flow path 111, the first pressure chamber C1, and a second flow path
112. The first flow path 111 allows the space Ka1 and the first pressure chamber C1
to communicate with each other. Specifically, the first flow path 111 is a through
hole formed in the first substrate 321 and along the Z-axis. The first pressure chamber
C1 allows the first flow path 111 and the second flow path 112 to communicate with
each other. As described above, the first pressure chamber C1 is a space that is elongated
along the X-axis and that is formed in the pressure chamber substrate 34. The energy
generating portion 44 corresponding to the first nozzle N1 is mounted on a surface
of the diaphragm 42 on a side opposite the first pressure chamber C1. It can also
be said that the energy generating portion 44 corresponding to the first nozzle N1
is provided midway of the first individual flow path Q1. Note that the energy generating
portion 44 corresponding to the first nozzle N1 is an example of a "first energy generating
portion". The second flow path 112 allows the first pressure chamber C1 and the first
nozzle N1 to communicate with each other. Specifically, the second flow path 112 is
a through hole formed along the Z-axis and across the first substrate 321 and the
second substrate 322.
[0037] The first pressure chamber C1 is in communication with the first common liquid chamber
K1 through the first flow path 111 and is in communication with the first nozzle N1
through the second flow path 112. Accordingly, the ink filled in the first pressure
chamber C1 from the first common liquid chamber K1 through the first flow path 111
passes through the second flow path 112 and is ejected through the first nozzle N1
with the deformation of the energy generating portion 44 corresponding to the first
pressure chamber C1.
[0038] The second communication flow path Q12 allows the second common liquid chamber K2
and the first nozzle N1 to communicate with each other. Specifically, the second communication
flow path Q12 is a flow path from a plane that includes a central axis of the first
nozzle N1 and that is parallel to the YZ plane to the third opening O3 formed in a
lateral surface of the space Ka2. The second communication flow path Q12 of the present
exemplary embodiment includes a third flow path 121, a fourth flow path 122, and a
fifth flow path 123. The third flow path 121 allows the first nozzle N1 and the fourth
flow path 122 to communicate with each other. Specifically, the third flow path 121
is formed along the X-axis and in a surface of the second substrate 322 on the positive
side in the Z-axis direction. The fourth flow path 122 allows the third flow path
121 and the fifth flow path 123 to communicate with each other. Specifically, the
fourth flow path 122 is a through hole formed in the second substrate 322 and along
the Z-axis. The fifth flow path 123 allows the fourth flow path 122 and the second
common liquid chamber K2 to communicate with each other. Specifically, the fifth flow
path 123 is formed along the X-axis and in a surface of the second substrate 322 on
the negative side in the Z-axis direction. In the ink that is supplied to the first
individual flow path Q1 from the first common liquid chamber K1, the ink that is not
ejected through the first nozzle N1 is stored in the second common liquid chamber
K2.
[0039] As illustrated as an example in FIG. 7, the second individual flow path Q2 includes
a third communication flow path Q23 and a fourth communication flow path Q24. The
third communication flow path Q23 corresponds to the first communication flow path
Q11, and the fourth communication flow path Q24 corresponds to the second communication
flow path Q12. The first communication flow path Q11 and the fourth communication
flow path Q24 are provided alternately along the Y-axis and on the positive side in
the X-axis direction. The second communication flow path Q12 and the third communication
flow path Q23 are provided alternately along the Y-axis and on the negative side in
the X-axis direction.
[0040] The fourth communication flow path Q24 allows the first common liquid chamber K1
and the second nozzle N2 to communicate with each other. Specifically, the fourth
communication flow path Q24 is a flow path from the second opening O2 formed in a
lateral surface of the space Ka1 to a plane that includes a central axis of the second
nozzle N2 and that is parallel to the YZ plane. The fourth communication flow path
Q24 of the present exemplary embodiment includes a sixth flow path 241, a seventh
flow path 242, and an eighth flow path 243. The sixth flow path 241 couples the first
common liquid chamber K1 and the seventh flow path 242 to each other. Specifically,
the sixth flow path 241 is formed along the X-axis and in a surface of the second
substrate 322 on the negative side in the Z-axis direction. The seventh flow path
242 couples the sixth flow path 241 and the eighth flow path 243 to each other. Specifically,
the seventh flow path 242 is a through hole formed in the second substrate 322 and
along the Z-axis. The eighth flow path 243 allows the seventh flow path 242 and the
second nozzle N2 to communicate with each other. Specifically, the eighth flow path
243 is formed along the X-axis and in a surface of the second substrate 322 on the
positive side in the Z-axis direction.
[0041] The third communication flow path Q23 is a flow path that allows the second common
liquid chamber K2 and the second nozzle N2 to communicate with each other. Specifically,
the third communication flow path Q23 is a flow path from an opening of the second
nozzle N2 on the negative side in the Z-axis direction to the fourth opening O4 formed
in an upper surface of the space Ka2. The third communication flow path Q23 of the
present exemplary embodiment includes a ninth flow path 231, the second pressure chamber
C2, and a tenth flow path 232. The ninth flow path 231 couples the second nozzle N2
and the second pressure chamber C2 to each other. Specifically, the ninth flow path
231 is a through hole formed along the Z-axis and across the first substrate 321 and
the second substrate 322. The second pressure chamber C2 allows the ninth flow path
231 and the tenth flow path 232 to communicate with each other. As described above,
the second pressure chamber C2 is a space that is elongated along the X-axis and that
is formed in the pressure chamber substrate 34. The energy generating portion 44 corresponding
to the second nozzle N2 is mounted on a surface of the diaphragm 42 on a side opposite
the second pressure chamber C2. It can also be said that the energy generating portion
44 corresponding to the second nozzle N2 is provided midway of the second individual
flow path Q2. Note that the energy generating portion 44 corresponding to the second
nozzle N2 is an example of a "second energy generating portion". The tenth flow path
232 allows the second pressure chamber C2 and the space Ka2 to communicate with each
other. Specifically, the tenth flow path 232 is a through hole formed in the first
substrate 321 and along the Z-axis.
[0042] The ink is filled into the second pressure chamber C2 from the first common liquid
chamber K1 through the fourth communication flow path Q24 and the ninth flow path
231. The ink inside the second pressure chamber C2 is ejected through the second nozzle
N2 via the ninth flow path 231 with the deformation of the energy generating portion
44. In the ink that is supplied to the second individual flow path Q2 from the first
common liquid chamber K1, the ink that is not ejected through the second nozzle N2
is stored in the second common liquid chamber K2.
[0043] The first opening 01, the second opening O2, the third opening O3, and the fourth
opening O4 will be described below in detail. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of
the first common liquid chamber K1 on the first individual flow path Q1 side, and
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the first common liquid chamber K1 on the second
individual flow path Q2 side. Furthermore, FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the
second common liquid chamber K2 on the first individual flow path Q1 side, and FIG.
11 is a cross-sectional view of the second common liquid chamber K2 on the second
individual flow path Q2 side.
[0044] As illustrated as an example in FIGS. 8 and 9, the first common liquid chamber K1
includes a first surface F1, a second surface F2, a third surface F3, and a fourth
surface F4. The first surface F1, the second surface F2, the third surface F3, and
the fourth surface F4 constitute wall surfaces of the first common liquid chamber
K1. The first surface F1 is a bottom surface of the space Ka1. It can also be said
that the first surface F1 is, among the wall surfaces of the space Ka1, the portion
that is on the positive side in the Z-axis direction and that extends along the Y-axis.
Specifically, the entire first surface F1 is constituted by the first deforming portion
641. Note that it is only sufficient that at least a portion of the first surface
F1 is constituted by the first deforming portion 641. For example, the first deforming
portion 641 and the flow path substrate 32 may constitute the first surface F1. The
second surface F2 is an upper surface of the space Ka1. It can also be said that the
second surface F2 is, among the wall surfaces of the space Ka1, the portion that is
on the negative side in the Z-axis direction and that extends along the Y-axis. In
other words, the first surface F1 and the second surface F2 oppose each other. Specifically,
the second surface F2 is constituted by the flow path substrate 32.
[0045] The third surface F3 and the fourth surface F4 are portions of the lateral surfaces
of the space Ka1. In other words, the third surface F3 and the fourth surface F4 are
surfaces that intersect the first surface F1 and the second surface F2. In the present
exemplary embodiment, the third surface F3 and the fourth surface F4 are orthogonal
to the first surface F1 and the second surface F2. Specifically, the third surface
F3 is, among the lateral surfaces of the space Ka1, the portion that is on the negative
side in the X-axis direction and that extends along the Y-axis. On the other hand,
the fourth surface F4 is, among the lateral surfaces of the space Ka1, the portion
that is on the positive side in the X-axis direction and that extends along the Y-axis.
In other words, the third surface F3 and the fourth surface F4 oppose each other.
The third surface F3 and the fourth surface F4 are constituted by the flow path substrate
32.
[0046] As illustrated as an example in FIG. 8, the first opening 01 is provided in the second
surface F2. In other words, the first opening 01 opposes the first deforming portion
641. An opening parallel to the XY plane is the first opening 01. As illustrated as
an example in FIG. 9, the second opening O2 is provided in the third surface F3. In
other words, the second opening O2 opposes the fourth surface F4. An opening that
is parallel to the YZ plane is the second opening O2. As understood from the description
above, the first opening 01 and the second opening O2 are not parallel to each other.
[0047] As illustrated as an example in FIGS. 8 and 9, the positions of the first opening
01 and the second opening O2 are different in the Z-axis direction. It can also be
said that the heights of the first opening 01 and the second opening O2 are different.
The position of the first opening 01 in the Z-axis direction is, for example, a position
of a center of gravity p1 of the first opening 01 in the Z-axis direction. The position
of the second opening O2 in the Z-axis direction is, for example, a position of a
center of gravity p2 of the second opening O2 in the Z-axis direction. Specifically,
the first opening 01 is positioned on the negative side in the Z-axis direction with
respect to the second opening O2. It can also be said that the first opening 01 is
closer to the pressure chamber substrate 34 than the second opening O2. In other words,
the first opening 01 is positioned higher than the second opening O2.
[0048] A distance D1 between the first opening 01 and the first deforming portion 641 and
a distance D2 between the second opening O2 and the first deforming portion 641 are
different. The distance D1 is, for example, the shortest distance between the center
of gravity p1 of the first opening 01 and a surface of the first deforming portion
641 on the negative side in the Z-axis direction. The distance D2 is, for example,
the shortest distance between the center of gravity p2 of the second opening O2 and
a surface of the first deforming portion 641 on the negative side in the Z-axis direction.
Specifically, the distance D1 is larger than the distance D2. In other words, the
first opening 01 is farther away from the first deforming portion 641 than the second
opening O2.
[0049] Furthermore, a direction P1 of the first opening 01 and a direction P2 of the second
opening O2 are different. The direction P1 of the first opening 01 is a direction
of the normal line of the first opening 01. It can also be said that the direction
of a central axis of the first flow path 111 is the direction P1 of the first opening
01. Similarly, the direction P2 of the second opening O2 is a direction of the normal
line of the second opening O2. It can also be said that a direction of a central axis
of the sixth flow path 241 is the direction P2 of the second opening O2. Specifically,
the direction P1 of the first opening O1 is a direction extending along the Z-axis,
and the direction P2 of the second opening O2 is a direction extending along the X-axis.
In other words, an angle formed between the direction P1 of the first opening O1 and
the direction P2 of the second opening O2 is 90 degrees.
[0050] As illustrated as an example in FIGS. 10 and 11, the second common liquid chamber
K2 includes a fifth surface F5, a sixth surface F6, a seventh surface F7, and an eighth
surface F8. The fifth surface F5, the sixth surface F6, the seventh surface F7, and
the eighth surface F8 constitute wall surfaces of the second common liquid chamber
K2. The fifth surface F5 is a bottom surface of the space Ka2. It can also be said
that the fifth surface F5 is, among the wall surfaces of the space Ka2, the portion
that is on the positive side in the Z-axis direction. Specifically, the entire fifth
surface F5 is constituted by the second deforming portion 651. Note that it is only
sufficient that at least a portion of the fifth surface F5 is constituted by the second
deforming portion 651. For example, the second deforming portion 651 and the flow
path substrate 32 may constitute the fifth surface F5. The sixth surface F6 is an
upper surface of the space Ka2. It can also be said that the sixth surface F6 is,
among the wall surfaces of the space Ka2, the portion that is on the negative side
in the Z-axis direction. Specifically, the sixth surface F6 is constituted by the
flow path substrate 32. The fifth surface F5 and the sixth surface F6 oppose each
other.
[0051] The seventh surface F7 and the eighth surface F8 are portions of the lateral surfaces
of the space Ka2. In other words, the seventh surface F7 and the eighth surface F8
are surfaces that intersect the fifth surface F5 and the sixth surface F6. In the
present exemplary embodiment, the seventh surface F7 and the eighth surface F8 are
orthogonal to the fifth surface F5 and the sixth surface F6. Specifically, the seventh
surface F7 is, among the lateral surfaces of the space Ka2, the portion that is on
the positive side in the X-axis direction and that extends along the Y-axis. On the
other hand, the eighth surface F8 is, among the lateral surfaces of the space Ka2,
the portion that is on the negative side in the X-axis direction and that extends
along the Y-axis. In other words, the seventh surface F7 and the eighth surface F8
oppose each other. The seventh surface F7 and the eighth surface F8 are constituted
by the flow path substrate 32.
[0052] As illustrated as an example in FIG. 10, the third opening O3 is provided in the
seventh surface F7. In other words, the third opening O3 opposes the eighth surface
F8. An opening that is parallel to the YZ plane is the third opening O3. As illustrated
as an example in FIG. 11, the fourth opening O4 is provided in the sixth surface F6.
In other words, the fourth opening O4 opposes the second deforming portion 651. An
opening parallel to the XY plane is the fourth opening O4. As understood from the
description above, the third opening O3 and the fourth opening O4 are not parallel
to each other.
[0053] As illustrated as an example in FIGS. 10 and 11, the positions of the third opening
O3 and the fourth opening O4 are different in the Z-axis direction. It can also be
said that the heights of the third opening O3 and the fourth opening O4 are different.
The position of the third opening O3 in the Z-axis direction is, for example, a position
of a center of gravity p3 of the third opening O3 in the Z-axis direction. The position
of the fourth opening O4 in the Z-axis direction is, for example, a position of a
center of gravity p4 of the fourth opening O4 in the Z-axis direction. Specifically,
the fourth opening O4 is positioned on the negative side in the Z-axis direction with
respect to the third opening O3. It can also be said that the fourth opening O4 is
closer to the pressure chamber substrate 34 than the third opening O3. In other words,
the fourth opening O4 is positioned higher than the third opening O3.
[0054] A distance D3 between the third opening O3 and the second deforming portion 651 and
a distance D4 between the fourth opening O4 and the second deforming portion 651 are
different. The distance D4 is, for example, the shortest distance between the center
of gravity p4 of the fourth opening O4 and a surface of the second deforming portion
651 on the negative side in the Z-axis direction. The distance D3 is, for example,
the shortest distance between the center of gravity p3 of the third opening O3 and
a surface of the second deforming portion 651 on the negative side in the Z-axis direction.
Specifically, the distance D4 is larger than the distance D3. In other words, the
fourth opening O4 is farther away from the second deforming portion 651 than the third
opening O3.
[0055] Furthermore, a direction P3 of the third opening O3 and a direction P4 of the fourth
opening O4 are different. The direction P3 of the third opening O3 is a direction
of the normal line of the third opening O3. It can also be said that the direction
P3 of the third opening O3 is a direction of a central axis of the fifth flow path
123. Similarly, the direction P4 of the fourth opening O4 is a direction of the normal
line of the fourth opening O4. It can also be said that the direction P4 of the fourth
opening O4 is a direction of a central axis of the tenth flow path 232. Specifically,
the direction P3 of the third opening O3 is a direction extending along the X-axis,
and the direction P4 of the fourth opening O4 is a direction extending along the Z-axis.
In other words, an angle formed between the direction P3 of the third opening O3 and
the direction P4 of the fourth opening O4 is 90 degrees.
[0056] As described above, the first individual flow path Q1 and the second individual flow
path Q2 are in an inverted relationship. Accordingly, as illustrated as an example
in FIGS. 8 and 11, the positions of the first opening 01 and the fourth opening O4
are the same in the Z-axis direction. Furthermore, the direction P1 of the first opening
01 and the direction P4 of the fourth opening O4 are the same. In other words, the
first opening 01 and the fourth opening O4 are parallel to each other. Furthermore,
as illustrated as an example in FIGS. 9 and 10, the positions of the second opening
O2 and the third opening O3 are the same in the Z-axis direction. Furthermore, the
second opening O2 and the third opening O3 are parallel to each other. Specifically,
the direction P2 of the second opening O2 and the direction P3 of the third opening
O3 extend in opposite directions.
[0057] A description of crosstalk between adjacent individual flow paths Q will be given
next. Crosstalk includes crosstalk caused in a mechanical manner through the structure
constituting the flow paths, and crosstalk caused in a hydrodynamic manner through
the liquid inside the flow paths. The latter crosstalk is greatly affected by the
behavior of the liquid inside the common liquid chambers K (K1 and K2), which are
portions where the adjacent individual flow paths Q are fluidly coupled to each other.
For example, when distances between fluxes occurring near the openings O (O1, O2,
O3, O4) are small and when the directions of the fluxes are close to each other, the
effect exerted between the fluxes becomes large and the crosstalk becomes large. Furthermore,
as the absorption and the attenuation of the change in pressure propagated into the
common liquid chamber K through the openings O become smaller, the crosstalk becomes
larger.
[0058] As understood from the description above, since the positions of the first opening
O1 and the second opening O2 in the Z-axis direction are different in the present
exemplary embodiment, when compared with a configuration in which the positions of
the first opening O1 and the second opening O2 are the same in the Z-axis direction,
for example, the distance between the first opening O1 and the second opening O2 can
be large. In other words, the distance between the flux occurring near the first opening
O1 and the flux occurring near the second opening O2 is larger. As a result, the flux
occurring near the first opening O1 and the flux occurring near the second opening
O2 do not easily affect each other. Accordingly, crosstalk between the first individual
flow path Q1 and the second individual flow path Q2 can be reduced. Consequently,
errors in ejection characteristics of the first nozzle N1 and the second nozzle N2
can be reduced. The ejection characteristics are the ejection speed, the ejection
direction, and the ejection amount, for example. As understood from the description
above, there is an advantage in that crosstalk between adjacent individual flow paths
Q can be suppressed even when a plurality of individual flow paths Q are disposed
in a highly dense manner.
[0059] According to the configuration of the present exemplary embodiment in which the direction
P1 of the first opening O1 and the direction P2 of the second opening O2 are different,
the direction of the flux occurring near the first opening O1 and the direction of
the flux occurring near the second opening O2 are different. In other words, the flux
occurring near the first opening O1 and the flux occurring near the second opening
O2 do not easily affect each other. Accordingly, compared with a configuration in
which the direction P1 of the first opening O1 and the direction P2 of the second
opening O2 are the same, crosstalk between the first individual flow path Q1 and the
second individual flow path Q2 can be reduced. Consequently, errors in the ejection
characteristics of the first nozzle N1 and the second nozzle N2 can be reduced. In
particular, in the present exemplary embodiment, since the angle formed between the
direction P1 of the first opening O1 and the direction P2 of the second opening O2
is 90 degrees, the effect of reducing crosstalk between the first individual flow
path Q1 and the second individual flow path Q2 is prominent.
[0060] Since the first opening O1 is closer to the energy generating portion 44 than the
second opening O2, propagation of the pressure change, which is caused by the energy
generating portion 44, to the first common liquid chamber K1 through the first opening
O1 is facilitated. In the present exemplary embodiment, since the distance D1 is larger
than the distance D2, attenuation of the pressure change propagating from the first
opening O1 towards the first deforming portion 641 is facilitated. Accordingly, the
effect of reducing crosstalk is prominent. Since the first opening O1 is provided
in the second surface F2, and the second opening O2 is provided in the third surface
F3, compared with, for example, a configuration in which the first opening O1 and
the second opening O2 are provided in the same surface, the effect of reducing crosstalk
is prominent. Furthermore, there is an advantage in that absorption of the pressure
change, which is propagated through the first opening O1, with the first deforming
portion 641 is facilitated with the configuration in which the first opening O1 opposes
the first deforming portion 641. Similarly, since the fourth opening O4 opposes the
second deforming portion 651, absorption of the pressure change, which is propagated
through the fourth opening O4, with the second deforming portion 651 is facilitated.
[0061] In a configuration, for example, in which the position of the third opening O3 in
the Z-axis direction is the same as that of the first opening O1, and the position
of the fourth opening O4 in the Z-axis direction is the same as that of the second
opening O2, a flow path length of the first individual flow path Q1 and the flow path
length of the second individual flow path Q2 are different and errors in the ejection
characteristics occur in the first nozzle N1 and the second nozzle N2. Conversely,
in the configuration of the present exemplary embodiment in which the positions of
the first opening O1 and the fourth opening O4 are the same in the Z-axis direction
and the positions of the second opening O2 and the third opening O3 are the same in
the Z-axis direction, the flow path length of the first individual flow path Q1 and
the flow path length of the second individual flow path Q2 approximate each other
and, accordingly, the errors in the ejection characteristics of the first nozzle N1
and the second nozzle N2 can be reduced.
[0062] Furthermore, in a configuration, for example, in which the direction P3 of the third
opening O3 and the direction P1 of the first opening O1 are parallel to each other
and in which the direction P4 of the fourth opening O4 and the direction P2 of the
second opening O2 are parallel to each other, a flow path length of the first individual
flow path Q1 and the flow path length of the second individual flow path Q2 are different
and errors in the ejection characteristics occur in the first nozzle N1 and the second
nozzle N2. Conversely, in the present exemplary embodiment, the direction P1 of the
first opening O1 and the direction P4 of the fourth opening O4 are parallel to each
other and the direction P2 of the second opening O2 and the direction P3 of the third
opening O3 are parallel to each other; accordingly, the flow path length of the first
individual flow path Q1 and the flow path length of the second individual flow path
Q2 approximate each other. Accordingly, errors in the ejection characteristics of
the first nozzle N1 and the second nozzle N2 can be reduced. Note that the relational
configuration between the third opening O3 and the fourth opening O4 can achieve an
effect similar to that of the effect achieved by the relational configuration between
the first opening O1 and the second opening O2 described above.
Modifications
[0063] The configurations described above illustrated as examples can be modified in various
ways. Specific modification modes that can be applied to the embodiments described
above will be exemplified below. Two or more optionally selected modes from the examples
below can be merged as appropriate as long as they do not contradict each other.
- 1. The shapes of the individual flow paths Q are not limited to those illustrated
as examples in the above description. For example, in addition to the first flow path
111, the first pressure chamber C1, and the second flow path 112, the first communication
flow path Q11 may include another flow path. Same applies to the second communication
flow path Q12, the third communication flow path Q23, and the fourth communication
flow path Q24. Furthermore, the shapes of the first individual flow path Q1 and the
second individual flow path Q2 may be different, or the shapes of the first individual
flow path Q1 and the second individual flow path Q2 may be the same. In other words,
a configuration in which the positions of the first opening O1 and the fourth opening
O4 in the Z-axis direction are different, or a configuration in which the positions
of the second opening O2 and the third opening O3 in the Z-axis direction are different
may be adopted as well.
- 2. In the configuration described above, the flow path substrate 32 is formed of layers
including the first substrate 321 and the second substrate 322; however, the configuration
of the flow path substrate 32 is not limited to the example described above. For example,
the flow path substrate 32 may be formed of a single layer, or the flow path substrate
32 may be formed of at least three layers.
- 3. In the configuration described above, the liquid ejecting head 26 adopting both
configurations, specifically, a configuration in which the positions of the first
opening O1 and the second opening O2 in the Z-axis direction are different and a configuration
in which the direction P1 of the first opening O1 and the direction P2 of the second
opening O2 are different, has been described as an example; however, only either one
of the configurations may be adopted. Even when only one of the configurations, specifically,
the configuration in which the positions of the first opening O1 and the second opening
O2 in the Z-axis direction are different and the configuration in which the direction
P1 of the first opening O1 and the direction P2 of the second opening O2 are different,
is adopted, the effect of reducing crosstalk between the first individual flow path
Q1 and the second individual flow path Q2 can be obtained.
- 4. In the configuration described above, the first opening O1 is formed in the second
surface F2 of the first common liquid chamber K1, and the second opening O2 is formed
in the third surface F3; however, the positions where the first opening O1 and the
second opening O2 are formed are optional. For example, the first opening O1 may be
formed in the third surface F3, and the second opening O2 may be formed in the second
surface F2. In other words, it is only sufficient that either one of the first opening
O1 and the second opening O2 opposes the first deforming portion 641. Similarly, it
is only sufficient that either one of the third opening O3 and the fourth opening
O4 opposes the second deforming portion 651.
Furthermore, the first opening O1 and the second opening O2 may be formed in the same
surface. For example, a configuration in which both the first opening O1 and the second
opening O2 are formed in the third surface F3, or a configuration in which both the
first opening O1 and the second opening O2 are formed in the second surface F2 may
be adopted. Similarly, the third opening O3 and the fourth opening O4 may be formed
in the same surface.
- 5. In the configuration described above, the first vibration absorber 64 and the second
vibration absorber 65 can be omitted. In other words, it is not essential that the
first deforming portion 641 constitutes a portion of the wall surface of the first
common liquid chamber K1, and that the second deforming portion 651 constitutes a
portion of the wall surface of the second common liquid chamber K2.
- 6. In the configuration described above, a configuration in which the liquid ejecting
apparatus 100 includes the circulation mechanism 90 has been illustrated as an example;
however, it is not essential that liquid ejecting apparatus 100 includes the circulation
mechanism 90. In other words, either one of the first line L1 and the second line
L2 is omitted. For example, when the second line L2 is omitted, the various elements
related to the second line L2 are also omitted. For example, the second common liquid
chamber K2 is omitted. In other words, the third opening O3 and the fourth opening
O4 are also omitted.
- 7. In the configuration described above, a configuration in which the angle formed
between the direction P1 of the first opening O1 and the direction P2 of the second
opening O2 is 90 degrees has been illustrated as an example; however, the angle formed
between the direction P1 of the first opening O1 and the direction P2 of the second
opening O2 is optional. From the viewpoint of reducing crosstalk, the angle formed
between the direction P1 of the first opening O1 and the direction P2 of the second
opening O2 is preferably at least 45 degrees. Note that the effect of reducing crosstalk
becomes prominent as the angle formed between the direction P1 of the first opening
O1 and the direction P2 of the second opening O2 approaches 90 degrees. However, a
configuration in which the angle formed between the direction P1 of the first opening
O1 and the direction P2 of the second opening O2 is under 45 degrees can be adopted
as well. Similarly, the angle formed between the direction P3 of the third opening
O3 and the direction P4 of the fourth opening O4 is optional as well.
- 8. The energy generating portions 44 that generate energy to eject the liquid inside
the pressure chambers C through the nozzles N are not limited to the piezoelectric
elements. For example, heating elements that generate air bubbles inside the pressure
chambers C through heating to change the pressure inside the pressure chambers C may
be used as the energy generating portions 44. As it can be understood from the examples
described above, the energy generating portions 44 are expressed comprehensively as
elements that eject the liquid in the pressure chambers C through the nozzles N, and
the operation system such as a piezoelectric system or a thermal system, and the specific
configuration of the energy generating portions 44 do not need to be stated in particular.
In other words, the energy to eject the liquid includes both heat and pressure.
- 9. While in the embodiments described above, the serial type liquid ejecting apparatus
100 in which the transport body 82 in which the liquid ejecting head 26 is mounted
is reciprocated has been described as an example, a line type liquid ejecting apparatus
in which a plurality of nozzles N are distributed across the entire width of the medium
12 can also be applied to the present disclosure.
- 10. The liquid ejecting apparatuses 100 described as examples in the embodiments described
above may be employed in various apparatuses other than an apparatus dedicated to
printing, such as a facsimile machine and a copier. Note that the application of the
liquid ejecting apparatus of the present disclosure is not limited to printing. For
example, a liquid ejecting apparatus that ejects a coloring material solution is used
as a manufacturing apparatus that forms a color filter of a display device such as
a liquid crystal display panel. Furthermore, a liquid ejecting apparatus that ejects
a conductive material solution is used as a manufacturing apparatus that forms wiring
and electrodes of a wiring substrate. Furthermore, a liquid ejecting apparatus that
ejects a solution of an organic matter related to a living body is used, for example,
as a manufacturing apparatus that manufactures a biochip.
1. A liquid ejecting head comprising:
a plurality of nozzles that eject a liquid along a first axis;
a row of individual flow paths that includes a plurality of individual flow paths
arranged in parallel along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis when viewed
in a direction of the first axis; and
a common liquid chamber that is commonly in communication with the plurality of individual
flow paths, wherein
the plurality of individual flow paths include a first individual flow path and a
second individual flow path that are adjacent to each other in the row of individual
flow paths, and
a position of a first opening that is a connection port between the common liquid
chamber and the first individual flow path and a position of a second opening that
is a connection port between the common liquid chamber and the second individual flow
path are different in the direction of the first axis.
2. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 1, wherein
the common liquid chamber includes a deforming portion that deforms in response to
a pressure change of a liquid inside the common liquid chamber, and
a distance between the first opening and the deforming portion is different from a
distance between the second opening and the deforming portion.
3. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 1, wherein
the common liquid chamber includes a first surface, a second surface, and a third
surface, in which the first surface and the second surface oppose each other,
at least a portion of the first surface is formed of a deforming portion that deforms
in response to a pressure change of a liquid inside the common liquid chamber,
the first opening is provided in the second surface, and
the second opening is provided in the third surface.
4. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 1, wherein
a direction of the first opening and a direction of the second opening are different.
5. A liquid ejecting head comprising:
a plurality of nozzles that eject a liquid along a first axis;
a row of individual flow paths that includes a plurality of individual flow paths
arranged in parallel along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis when viewed
in a direction of the first axis;
a first common liquid chamber that is commonly in communication with the plurality
of individual flow paths; and
a second common liquid chamber that is commonly in communication with the plurality
of individual flow paths, wherein
the plurality of individual flow paths include a first individual flow path and a
second individual flow path that are adjacent to each other in the row of individual
flow paths,
a position of a first opening that is a connection port between the first common liquid
chamber and the first individual flow path and a position of a second opening that
is a connection port between the first common liquid chamber and the second individual
flow path are different in the direction of the first axis, and
a position of a third opening that is a connection port between the second common
liquid chamber and the first individual flow path and a position of a fourth opening
that is a connection port between the second common liquid chamber and the second
individual flow path are different in the direction of the first axis.
6. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 5, wherein
a position of the first opening and a position of the fourth opening are same in the
direction of the first axis, and
a position of the second opening and a position of the third opening are same in the
direction of the first axis.
7. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 5, wherein
the first common liquid chamber includes a first deforming portion that deforms in
response to a pressure change of a liquid inside the first common liquid chamber,
the second common liquid chamber includes a second deforming portion that deforms
in response to a pressure change of a liquid inside the second common liquid chamber,
a distance between the first opening and the first deforming portion is different
from a distance between the second opening and the first deforming portion, and
a distance between the third opening and the second deforming portion is different
from a distance between the fourth opening and the second deforming portion.
8. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 7, wherein
in the first individual flow path, a first energy generating portion that generates
energy to eject the liquid is provided midway of a first communication flow path that
communicates the first common liquid chamber and a first nozzle in the plurality of
nozzles to each other,
in the second individual flow path, a second energy generating portion that generates
energy to eject the liquid is provided midway of a second communication flow path
that communicates the second common liquid chamber and a second nozzle in the plurality
of nozzles to each other,
a distance between the first opening and the first deforming portion is larger than
a distance between the second opening and the first deforming portion, and
a distance between the fourth opening and the second deforming portion is larger than
a distance between the third opening and the second deforming portion.
9. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 8, wherein
the first opening opposes the first deforming portion, and
the fourth opening opposes the second deforming portion.
10. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 5, wherein
a direction of the first opening and a direction of the second opening are different,
and
a direction of the third opening and a direction of the fourth opening are different.
11. A liquid ejecting apparatus comprising:
a liquid ejecting head according to claim 5; and
a circulation mechanism that collects the liquid from either one of the first common
liquid chamber and the second common liquid chamber and that recirculates the liquid
to the other one of the first common liquid chamber and the second common liquid chamber.