Liquid discharge apparatus

A controller causes a notification device to provide a first alert in response to receipt of a first signal from a liquid level sensor. After the controller determines that a cartridge is located at a particular position in an installation case, the controller clears the first alert in response to receipt of a second signal from the liquid level sensor.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-068761 filed on Mar. 30, 2018, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Aspects described herein relates to a liquid discharge apparatus.

BACKGROUND

A known inkjet printer includes a detachably attachable main tank, a sub tank for storing ink supplied from the main tank attached to the inkjet printer, and an image recording unit for recording an image by discharging ink stored in the sub tank. An internal space of the main tank and an internal space of the sub tank each communicate with outside air. Therefore, when the main tank is attached to the inkjet printer, ink moves such that a surface of ink stored in the main tank and a surface of ink stored in the sub tank become at the same level due to a hydraulic pressure difference between the internal space of the main tank and the internal space of the sub tank. Based on an ink remaining amount detected by a sensor having reached lower than a threshold, the inkjet printer displays, on a display, an empty indication indicating that the main tank needs to be replaced with another, and/or prohibits ink discharge through the image recording unit.

SUMMARY

In response to attachment of a main tank to the inkjet printer due to main tank replacement, ink may move from the attached main tank to the sub tank. Thus, the remaining amount of ink in the sub tank may increase. The inkjet printer may be therefore configured to, in response to attachment of a main tank to the inkjet printer due to the main tank replacement, cancel display of the empty indication on the display and/or clear the prohibition of ink discharge. Nevertheless, such an inkjet printer might not determine actually whether the sub tank stores enough ink supplied from the main tank until a signal outputted by the sensor changes. Thus, a problem may occur in such an inkjet printer if a newly-attached main tank stores only a slight amount of ink. For example, in a case where the inkjet printer cancels the display of the empty indication on the display in response to attachment of a main tank due to the main tank replacement, the sub tank may remain in an empty state although the inkjet printer clears the empty indication on the display. In another case where the inkjet printer clears the prohibition of ink discharge in response to attachment of a main tank due to the main tank replacement, the inkjet printer may perform printing although the sub tank is still in the empty state (i.e., the sub tank does not store a sufficient amount of ink). This may cause intrusion of air into an ink channel that extends from the sub tank to the image recording unit.

Accordingly, some embodiments of the disclosure provide for a liquid discharge apparatus that may clear an alert after determining that a surface level of liquid in a tank has reached a predetermined level through liquid movement from a cartridge to the tank after cartridge replacement.

A liquid discharge apparatus includes an installation case, a tank, a head, a liquid level sensor, a notification device, and a controller. The installation case may be configured to accommodate a cartridge including a cartridge channel and a cartridge chamber. The tank may include a chamber. The tank may further include a first channel, a second channel, and a third channel. The first channel may include one end in fluid communication with an outside of the tank and an opposite end in fluid communication with the chamber. The second channel may include one end positioned below the first channel and in fluid communication with the chamber; and. The third channel may include one end in fluid communication with the chamber and the other end communicated with the outside of the tank. The head may be in fluid communication with an opposite end of the second channel from the one end. The cartridge chamber may be in fluid communication with the chamber of the tank via at least one of the cartridge channel and the first channel while the cartridge is located at a particular position in the installation case. The controller may be configured to receive a first signal from the liquid level sensor, wherein the first signal is outputted from the liquid level sensor if a surface level of liquid in the chamber is lower than a predetermined level; in response to the receipt of the first signal, cause the notification device to provide a first alert; determine whether the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case; receive a second signal from the liquid level sensor, wherein the second signal is outputted if the surface level of liquid in the chamber is higher than or equal to the predetermined level; and in response to the receipt of the second signal from the liquid level sensor after determining that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, clear the first alert.

The liquid discharge apparatus may further include the cartridge.

According to one or more aspects of the disclosure, the controller may be configured to, in response to the receipt of the second signal from the liquid level sensor after determining that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, clear the first alert. In other words, the first alert may be cleared after a user recognizes that the liquid amount in the tank has become sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank. Such a configuration may thus avoid clearance of the first alert indicating empty notification before the liquid amount in the tank becomes sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank.

In the liquid discharge apparatus, the controller may be configured to receive a discharge instruction for discharging liquid through the head; determine a count value corresponding to a liquid amount based on the discharge instruction that has been received after receiving the first signal; determine whether the count value has reached a threshold; and based on determining that the count value has reached the threshold, cause the notification device to provide the first alert.

In the liquid discharge apparatus, the controller may be configured to: in response to the receipt of the first signal, prohibit liquid discharge through the head; and in response to the receipt of the second signal from the liquid level sensor after determining that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, clear the prohibition of liquid discharge through the head.

According to one or more aspects of the disclosure, the controller may be configured to, in response to the receipt of the second signal from the liquid level sensor after determining that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, clear the prohibition of liquid discharge. In other words, the prohibition of liquid discharge may be cleared after a user recognizes that the liquid amount in the tank has become sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank. Such a configuration may thus reduce intrusion of air into a liquid channel that may extend from the tank to the head.

In the liquid discharge apparatus, the controller may be configured to, in response to absence of the second signal from the liquid level sensor before the controller determines that an elapsed time has exceeded a specified time since the controller determined that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, cause the notification device to provide a second alert.

According to one or more aspects of the disclosure, the controller may be configured to, in response to not determining, within the specified time, that the liquid amount in the tank has become sufficient by supply of liquid from the cartridge to the tank, cause the warning device to provide the second alert. For example, the cartridge newly accommodated in the installation case may store relatively small amount of liquid and thus the liquid amount in the tank might not become sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank. In this case, such a configuration may enable a user to inform that liquid amount in the tank has not become sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank.

In the liquid discharge apparatus, the controller may be configured to: based on the determination that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, cause the notification device to provide a third alert; and in response to the receipt of the second signal from the liquid level sensor being absent before the controller determines that an elapsed time has exceeded a specified time since the controller determined that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case has been completed, cause the notification device to provide a fourth alert.

According to one or more aspects of the disclosure, the controller may be configured to, in response to determining that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, cause the notification device to provide the third alert, and in response to not determining, within the specified time, that the liquid amount in the tank has become sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank, cause the notification device to provide the fourth alert. For example, the cartridge newly accommodated the installation case may store relatively small amount of liquid. In this case, after the controller causes the n notification device to provide a user with a notification that the liquid is being supplied to the tank from the cartridge, the liquid amount in the tank might not have become sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank. If such a situation happens, the above configuration may enable a user to inform that the liquid amount in the tank has not become sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank.

The liquid discharge apparatus may further include an interface. In the liquid discharge apparatus, the installation case may be configured to accommodate one of different types of cartridges. In one example, the controller may be configured to, based on the determination that the one of the different types of cartridges is located at the particular position in the installation case, read cartridge information indicating a type of the accommodated cartridge, from a memory of the accommodated cartridge through the interface; and determine whether the elapsed time has exceeded the specified time, the specified time being determined based on the read cartridge information.

In another example, the controller may be configured to, based on the determination that the one of the different types of cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, read cartridge information indicating viscosity of liquid in the cartridge chamber, from a memory of the accommodated cartridge through the interface; and determine whether the elapsed time has exceeded the specified time, the specified time being determined based on the read cartridge information.

In still another example, the controller may be configured to, based on the determination that the one of the different types of cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, read cartridge information indicating a surface level of liquid in the cartridge chamber, from a memory of the accommodated cartridge through the interface; and determine whether the elapsed time has exceeded the specified time, the specified time being determined based on the read cartridge information.

In yet another example, the controller may be configured to, based on the determination that the one of the different types of cartridges is located at the particular position in the installation case, read cartridge information indicating a channel resistance of the accommodated cartridge, from a memory of the accommodated cartridge through the interface; and determine whether the elapsed time has exceeded the specified time, the specified time being determined based on the read cartridge information.

The time required for liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank may vary according to a liquid flow speed from the cartridge to the tank. The liquid flow speed may also vary according to, for example, a cross-sectional area of the cartridge chamber, the surface level of liquid in the cartridge chamber, and/or liquid viscosity. According to one or more aspects of the disclosure, in the determination as to whether the elapsed time has exceeded the specified time, the controller may use an appropriate specified time based on the cartridge information read from the cartridge memory of the accommodated cartridge. Such a configuration may thus enable provision of the empty notification at an appropriate timing in a case where the liquid amount in the tank has not become sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank.

The liquid discharge apparatus may further include a temperature sensor, In the liquid discharge apparatus, the controller may be configured to receive a signal from the temperature sensor, the signal outputted responsive to ambient temperature; and determine whether the elapsed time has exceeded the specified time, the specified time being determined based on the signal received from the temperature sensor.

Temperature change may cause change in the liquid viscosity, thereby causing change in the liquid flow speed from the cartridge to the tank. This may further cause change in the time required for the liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank. According to one or more aspects of the disclosure, in the determination as to whether the elapsed time has exceeded the specified time, the controller may use an appropriate specified time based on the signal outputted by the temperature sensor. Such a configuration may thus enable provision of the empty notification at an appropriate timing in a case where the liquid amount in the tank has not become sufficient by supply of liquid from the cartridge to the tank.

Another liquid discharge apparatus may include an installation case, a tank, a head, a liquid level sensor, and a controller. The installation case may be configured to accommodate a cartridge including a cartridge channel and a cartridge chamber. The tank may include a chamber. The tank may further include a first channel, a second channel, and the third channel. The first channel may include one end in fluid communication with an outside of the tank and an opposite end in fluid communication with the chamber. The second channel may include one end positioned below the first channel and in fluid communication with the chamber. The third channel may include one end in fluid communication with the chamber and the other end communicated with the outside of the tank. The head may be in fluid communication with an opposite end of the second channel from the one end. The cartridge chamber may be in fluid communication with the chamber of the tank via at least one of the cartridge channel and the first channel while the cartridge is located at a particular position in the installation case. The controller may be configured to receive a first signal from the liquid level sensor, wherein the first signal is outputted from the liquid level sensor if a surface level of liquid in the chamber is lower than a predetermined level; in response to the receipt of the first signal, prohibit liquid discharge through the head; determine whether the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case; receive a second signal from the liquid level sensor, wherein the second signal is outputted if the surface level of liquid in the chamber is higher than or equal to the predetermined level; and in response to the receipt of the second signal from the liquid level sensor after determining that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, allow the liquid discharge through the head.

The liquid discharge apparatus may further include a cartridge.

According to one or more aspects of the disclosure, the controller may be configured to, in response to the receipt of the second signal from the liquid level sensor after determining that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, allow the liquid discharge through the head. In other words, the liquid discharge may be allowed after a user recognizes that the liquid amount in the tank has become sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank. Such a configuration may thus reduce intrusion of air into a liquid channel that may extend from the tank to the head.

The liquid discharge apparatus may further include a notification device. In such a liquid discharge apparatus, the controller may be configured to in response to the receipt of the first signal, cause the notification device to provide a first alert; and in response to the receipt of the second signal from the liquid level sensor after determining that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, clear the first alert.

According to one or more aspects of the disclosure, the controller may be configured to, in response to the receipt of the second signal from the liquid level sensor after determining that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, clear the first alert. In other words, the first alert may be cleared after a user recognizes that the liquid amount in the tank has become sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank. Such a configuration may thus avoid clearance of the first alert indicating empty notification before the liquid amount in the tank becomes sufficient by liquid flow from the cartridge to the tank.

In the liquid discharge apparatus, the controller may be configured to, based on the determination that the cartridge is located at the particular position in the installation case, prohibit the liquid discharge through the head.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, an illustrative embodiment will be described. The illustrative embodiment described below is merely an example. Various changes, arrangements and modifications may be applied therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Atop-bottom direction7may be defined with reference to an orientation of a printer10that may be disposed in an orientation in which it may be intended to be used with being placed on a horizontal surface. A side of the printer10, in which an opening13may be defined, may be defined as the front of the printer10. A front-rear direction8may be defined with reference to the front of the printer10. A right-left direction9may be defined with respect to the printer10as viewed from the front of the printer10. In the illustrative embodiment, the top-bottom direction7corresponds to the vertical direction and the front-rear direction8and the right-left direction9each correspond to the horizontal direction when the printer10is disposed in the used orientation. The front-rear direction8and the right-left direction9are orthogonal to each other.

Overall Configuration of Printer10

The printer10is an example of a liquid discharge apparatus that records an image onto a sheet using an inkjet recording method. The printer10includes a housing14having a rectangular parallelepiped shape. In other embodiments, for example, the printer10may be a multifunction device having multiple functions, such as a facsimile transmission/reception function, a scanning function, and a copying function.

As illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2, the printer10further includes a feed tray15, a feed roller23, conveying rollers25, a head21, a platen26, output rollers27, an output tray16, an installation case150, and one or more tubes32. The head21has a plurality of nozzles29. The platen26is disposed facing the head21. The installation case150is configured such that one or more cartridges200are attached to and detached from the installation case150. The tube32provides communication between the head21and the cartridge200.

The printer10causes the feed roller23and the conveying rollers25to be driven to convey a sheet onto the platen26from the feed tray15. The printer10then causes the head21to eject ink, which is supplied from the cartridge200attached to the installation case150through the tube32, through appropriate ones of the nozzles29. Thus, the ejected ink droplets land on the sheet supported by the platen26and an image is recorded on the sheet. Thereafter, the printer10causes the output rollers27to be driven to output the sheet on which the image has been recorded, onto the output tray16.

More specifically, the head21may be mounted on a carriage that reciprocates in a main scanning direction intersecting a sheet conveyance direction in which the conveying rollers25convey a sheet. In such a case, the printer10may cause the head21to eject ink through appropriate ones of the nozzles29while moving the carriage from one side to the other side with respect to the main scanning direction. Thus, a portion of the image may be recorded on a portion of the sheet facing the head21. Thereafter, the printer10may cause the conveying rollers25to convey the sheet such that another portion of the sheet which is subjected to the next recording faces the head21. By repeating recording and conveyance, the entire image may be recorded on the sheet.

In the illustrative embodiment, ink discharge from the nozzles29of the head21during image recording is referred to as “ejection”. Nevertheless, ink discharge from the nozzles29of the head21during purging is not referred to as “ejection”, but “ejection” is included in a concept of “discharge”.

The printer10further includes a temperature sensor89(refer toFIG. 6) in the housing14. The temperature sensor89enables a controller130to detect temperature in the housing14. The temperature sensor89is configured to output different signals depending on ambient temperatures. The temperature in the housing14may be substantially equal to the temperature in the installation case150. The controller130is thus configured to detect the temperature in the installation case150indirectly via the temperature sensor89.

As illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B, the housing14has an opening85in its front surface14A. The opening85is located at a right end portion of the housing14in the right-left direction9. The housing14further includes a cover87. The cover87is pivotable between a covering position at which the cover87closes the opening85(e.g., a position of the cover87inFIG. 1A) and an uncovering position at which the cover87exposes the opening85(e.g., a position of the cover87inFIG. 1B). The cover87is supported by a lower end portion of the housing14in the top-bottom direction9so as to be pivotable on an axis extending along the right-left direction9. The housing14has an accommodating space86therein. The accommodating space86extends toward the rear from the opening85in the housing14. The installation case150is disposed in the accommodating space86.

The printer10further includes a cover sensor88(refer toFIG. 6). In one example, the cover sensor88may be a mechanical sensor such as a switch to and from which the cover87contacts and separates. In another example, the cover sensor88may be an optical sensor in which light may be blocked or unblocked in accordance with the position of the cover87. The cover sensor88is configured to output a signal to the controller130in response to the position of the cover87. More specifically, for example, the cover sensor88is configured to, in response to the cover87located at the covering position, output a low level signal to the controller130. On the other hand, the cover sensor88is configured to, in response to the cover87not located at the covering position, output a high level signal to the controller130. In other words, the cover sensor88is configured to, when the cover87is located at the uncovering position, output a high level signal to the controller130.

As illustrated inFIG. 3, the installation case150includes at least one each of a contact152, a rod153, an installation sensor154, a liquid level sensor155, and a lock pin156. The installation case150is configured to accommodate four cartridges200corresponding to respective colors, e.g., black, cyan, magenta, and yellow. That is, the installation case150includes four each of the contact152, the rod153, the installation sensor154, and the liquid level sensor155. The number of cartridges200that the installation case150can accommodate therein is not limited to four, but may be one or five or more.

The installation case150has a box shape having an internal space for accommodating the cartridges200. The internal space of the installation case150is defined by an upper wall defining an upper end of the internal space, a lower wall defining a lower end of the internal space, a rear wall defining a rear end of the internal space in the front-rear direction8, and side walls defining right and left ends of the internal space in the right-left direction9. The rear wall of the installation case150faces the opening85. That is, when the cover87is located at the uncovering position, the opening85allows the internal space of the installation case150to be exposed to the outside of the printer10.

Each of the cartridges200may be inserted into and detached from the installation case150through the opening85of the housing14. More specifically, for example, when each of the cartridge200is attached to the installation case150, each of the cartridges200enters the installation case150through the opening85by moving rearward in the front-rear direction8. When each of the cartridge200is detached from the installation case150, each of the cartridges200exits from the installation case150through the opening85by moving frontward in the front-rear direction8.

The contacts152are disposed at the upper wall of the installation case150. The contacts152protrude downward toward the internal space of the installation case150from the upper wall of the installation case150. Each of the contacts152is disposed so as to contact a plurality of electrodes248of a corresponding one of the cartridges200in a state where each of the cartridges200is fully attached to the installation case150. Each of the contacts152has conductivity and is elastically deformable in the top-bottom direction7. Each of the contacts152is electrically connected to the controller130.

The rods153protrude frontward from the rear wall of the installation case150. The rods153are disposed above joints180at the rear wall of the installation case150. Each of the rods153is configured to, during attachment of each of the cartridges200to the installation case150, enter a ventilation valve chamber214via a ventilation opening221of a corresponding one of the cartridges200. In response to entry of the rod153into the ventilation valve chamber214, the ventilation valve chamber214becomes communicated with outside air.

The installation sensors154are disposed at the upper wall of the installation case150. Each of the installation sensors154enables the controller130to determine whether a corresponding one of the cartridges200is being fully attached to the installation case150, i.e., to determine whether a corresponding one of the cartridge is located at a particular position. Each of the installation sensors154includes a light emitter and a light receiver that are spaced apart from each other in the right-left direction9. In a state where a cartridge200is attached to the installation case150, a light blocking rib245of the cartridge200is located between a light emitter and a light receiver of a corresponding installation sensor154. In other words, in such a state, the light emitter and the light receiver of the installation sensor154face each other while sandwiching the light blocking rib245of the cartridge200fully attached to the installation case150.

Each of the installation sensors154is configured to output unique signals (inFIG. 7, referred to as an “installation signal”) depending on whether the light receiver has received light emitted from the light emitter in the right-left direction9. For example, each of the installation sensors154is configured to, in response to a detection that intensity of light received by the light receiver is less than a threshold, output a low level signal to the controller130. On the other hand, each of the installation sensors154is configured to, in a detection that intensity of light received by the light receiver is higher than or equal to the threshold, output a high level signal to the controller130. The high level signal, e.g., 3V (three volts), has a higher signal strength than the low level signal, e.g., 0V (zero volt).

Liquid Level Sensors155

Each of the liquid level sensors155enables the controller130to determine whether a detection portion194of an actuator190is located at a detection position. Each of the liquid level sensors155includes a light emitter and a light receiver that are spaced apart from each other in the right-left direction9. When the detection portion194is located at the detection position, the light emitter and the light receiver of the liquid level sensor155face each other while sandwiching the detection portion194. Each of the liquid level sensors155is configured to output unique signals (inFIG. 7, referred to as a “liquid level signal”) depending on whether the light receiver has received light emitted from the light emitter. For example, each of the liquid level sensors155is configured to, in response to a detection that intensity of light received by the light receiver is less than a threshold, output a low level signal to the controller130. On the other hand, each of the liquid level sensors155is configured to, in response to a detection that intensity of light received by the light receiver is higher than or equal to the threshold, output a high level signal to the controller130. The high level signal, e.g., 3V (three volts), has a higher signal strength than the low level signal, e.g., 0V (zero volt). The high level signal is an example of a first signal, and the low level signal is an example of a second signal.

The lock pin156is disposed in the internal space of the installation case150. The lock pin156is located at an upper end portion of the installation case150and close to the opening85. The lock pin156has a bar shape extending in the right-left direction9. Both ends of the lock pin156in the right-left direction9are fastened to the side walls of the installation case150. The lock pin156extends in the right-left direction9throughout all of four spaces capable of accommodating the respective four cartridges200. The lock pin156is configured to retain each of the cartridges200, which are fully attached to the installation case150, at the particular position (refer toFIG. 5). In a state where each of the cartridges200is fully attached to the installation case150, each of the cartridges200is engaged with the lock pin156.

The printer10further includes four tanks160, which are provided for the respective cartridges200. The tanks160are disposed further to the rear than the rear wall of the installation case150. All of the tanks160have the same or similar configuration, and therefore, one of the tanks160will be described in detail. As illustrated inFIG. 3, the tank160is defined by an upper wall161, a lower wall163, a rear wall164, and side walls. The front wall162includes a plurality of walls that are located at different positions with respect to the front-rear direction8. The tank160has a liquid chamber171therein. The liquid chamber171is an example of a second liquid chamber.

Of the walls constituting the tank160, at least the wall facing a corresponding liquid level sensor155is translucent or transparent to light. Thus, light emitted by the liquid level sensor155may pass through the wall that faces the liquid level sensor155. A film may constitute at least a portion of the rear wall164. In such a case, the film may have melted and stuck to end faces of the upper wall161, the lower wall163, and the side walls. The side walls of the tank160may be shared with the installation case150or may be provided separately from the side walls of the installation case150. The tanks160adjacent to each other in the right-left direction9are partitioned by respective partition walls.

The liquid chamber171communicates with an ink channel via an outlet174. The outlet174has a lower edge that is defined by the lower wall163defining the lower end of the liquid chamber171. The outlet174is located below the joint180(more specifically, for example, a lower edge of a through hole184). The ink channel communicating with the outlet174communicates with a corresponding tube32(refer toFIG. 2). Thus, the liquid chamber171communicates with the head21via the outlet174, the ink channel, and the tube32. That is, ink stored in the liquid chamber171is supplied to the head21via the outlet174, the ink channel, and the tube32. The ink channel and the tube32communicating with the outlet174is an example of a channel whose one end (e.g., the outlet174) communicates with the liquid chamber171and whose other end33(refer toFIG. 2) communicates with the head21.

The liquid chamber171communicates with air via a ventilation chamber175. More specifically, for example, the ventilation chamber175communicates with the liquid chamber171via a through hole176that penetrates the front wall162of the tank160. The ventilation chamber175communicates with the outside of the printer10via a ventilation port177and a tube connected to the ventilation port177. That is, the ventilation chamber175is an example of a channel whose one end (e.g., the through hole176) communicates with the liquid chamber171and whose other end (e.g., the ventilation port177) communicates with the outside of the printer10. The ventilation chamber175communicates with outside air via the ventilation port177and the tube.

As illustrated inFIG. 3, each of the joints180(one of which is illustrated inFIG. 3) includes a needle181and a guide182. The needle181may be a hollow cylinder having a channel therein. The needle181protrudes frontward from the front wall162defining the liquid chamber171. The needle181has an opening183at its protruding end. An internal space of the needle181communicates with the liquid chamber171via the through hole184that penetrates the front wall162of the tank160. That is, the needle181is an example of a channel whose one end (e.g., the opening183) communicates with the outside of the tank160and whose other end (e.g., the through hole184) communicates with the liquid chamber171. The guide182may be a hollow cylindrical member that surrounds the needle181. The guide182protrudes frontward from the front wall162and has an opening at its protruding end.

In the internal space of the needle181, a valve185and a coil spring186are disposed. The valve185is movable in the front-rear direction8between a closing position and an open position in the internal space of the needle181. When the valve185is located at the closing position, the valve185closes the opening183. When the valve185is located at the open position, the valve185opens the opening183. The coil spring186urges the valve185in a direction in which the coil spring186moves the valve185from the open position to the closing position, i.e., toward the front.

Each of the actuators190is disposed in a corresponding one of the liquid chambers171. The actuator190is supported by a support member disposed in the liquid chamber171so as to be pivotable in a direction of an arrow198and in a direction of an arrow199. The actuator190is pivotable between a position indicated by a solid line and a position indicated by a dashed line inFIG. 3. The actuator190is restricted in its further movement in the direction of the arrow198from the position indicated by the solid line by a stopper (e.g., one of inner walls of the liquid chamber171). The actuator190includes a float191, a shaft192, an arm193, and the detection portion194.

The float191may be made of material having a lower specific gravity than ink stored in the liquid chamber171. The shaft192protrudes from right and left surfaces of the float191in the right-left direction9. The shaft192is engaged with holes of the support member by insertion. Thus, the actuator190is supported by the support member so as to be pivotable on the shaft192. The arm193extends substantially upward from the float191. The detection portion194is disposed at a protruding end of the arm193. The detection portion194has a plate shape extending in both the top-bottom direction7and the front-rear direction8. The detection portion194may be made of material that may block light outputted by the light emitter of the liquid level sensor155or have a color that may block the light.

When a surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber171is higher than or equal to a predetermined level P, the actuator190that has moved in the direction of the arrow198due to a buoyant force of the float191is retained at the detection position (indicated by the solid line inFIG. 3) by the stopper (this state is an example of a first state). When the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber171is lower than the predetermined level P, the actuator190moves in the direction of the arrow199with the ink level lowering. Thus, the detection portion194moves to stop at a position different from the detection position (this state is an example of a second state). That is, the detection portion194moves correspondingly to an amount of ink remaining in the liquid chamber171.

The predetermined level P may be the same level as an axis of the needle181in the top-bottom direction7and the center of an ink supply port234. The predetermined level P is indicated by an imaginary line extending in the horizontal direction in the drawings. Nevertheless, the predetermined level P is not limited to the specific example but may be any level unless being located higher than the outlet174in the top-bottom direction7. In one example, the predetermined level P may be the same level as an upper edge or a lower edge of the internal space of the needle181. In another example, the predetermined level P may be the same level as an upper edge or a lower edge of the ink supply port234.

When the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber171is higher than or equal to the predetermined level P, the detection portion194blocks light outputted from the light emitter of the liquid level sensor155. Thus, the light outputted from the light emitter does not reach the light receiver and the liquid level sensor155outputs a low level signal to the controller130. When the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber171is lower than the predetermined level P, the detection portion194does not block light outputted from the light emitter of the liquid level sensor155. Thus, the light outputted from the light emitter reaches the light receiver and the liquid level sensor155outputs a high level signal to the controller130. That is, the controller130is capable of determining, based on a type of a signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155, whether the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber171is higher than or equal to the predetermined level P.

All of the cartridges200have the same or similar configuration, and therefore, the description will be provided with respect to one of the cartridges200. The cartridge200may be a container having a liquid chamber210(refer toFIG. 2). The liquid chamber210is configured to store ink therein. Ink is an example of liquid. The liquid chamber210is defined by walls made of, for example, resin or plastic. As illustrated inFIG. 4A, the cartridge200has greater dimensions in the top-bottom direction7and in the front-rear direction8than a dimension in the right-left direction9. In one example, the cartridges200storing respective different colors of ink may have the same external shape. In another example, the cartridges200storing respective different colors of ink may have different external shapes. At least one or more of the walls of the cartridge200is transparent or translucent to light. This configuration may therefore enable a user to recognize the amount or surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200.

The cartridge200includes a housing201and a supply tube230. The housing201includes a rear wall202, a front wall203, an upper wall204, a lower wall205, and side walls206and207. The rear wall202includes a plurality of walls that are located at different positions in the front-rear direction8. The upper wall204includes a plurality of walls that are located at different positions in the top-bottom direction7. The lower wall205includes a plurality of walls that are located at different positions in the top-bottom direction7.

As illustrated inFIG. 4B, the cartridge200includes the liquid chamber210, an ink valve chamber213, and the ventilation valve chamber214. The liquid chamber210includes an upper liquid chamber211and a lower liquid chamber212. The upper liquid chamber211, the lower liquid chamber212, and the ventilation valve chamber214may be internal spaces of the housing210. The ink valve chamber213is an internal space of the supply tube230. The liquid chamber210stores ink therein. The ventilation valve chamber214enables the liquid chamber210to communicate with the outside of the cartridge200. The liquid chamber210is an example of a first liquid chamber.

A partition wall215(an example of a wall) is disposed for partitioning the inside of the housing201. The upper liquid chamber211and the lower liquid chamber212of the liquid chamber210are partitioned by the partition wall215so as to be located one above the other in the top-bottom direction7. The upper liquid chamber211and the lower liquid chamber212communicate with each other via a through hole216defined in the partition wall215. Another partition wall217is disposed for further partitioning the inside of the housing201. The upper liquid chamber211and the ventilation valve chamber214are partitioned by the partition wall217so as to be located one above the other in the top-bottom direction7. The partition wall215has an upper surface215U (an example of a first surface) defining a portion of the upper liquid chamber211. The partition wall215has a lower surface215L (an example of a second surface) defining a portion of the lower liquid chamber212. The upper liquid chamber211and the ventilation valve chamber214communicate with each other via a through hole218defined in the partition wall217. The ink valve chamber213communicates with a lower end of the lower liquid chamber212via a through hole219.

The ventilation valve chamber214communicates with the outside of the cartridge200via the ventilation opening221defined in the rear wall202at an upper portion of the cartridge200. That is, the ventilation valve chamber214is an example of a channel whose one end (e.g., the through hole218) communicates with the liquid chamber210and whose other end (e.g., the ventilation opening221) communicates with the outside of the cartridge200. The ventilation valve chamber214may communicate with outside air via the ventilation opening221. A valve222and a coil spring223are disposed in the ventilation valve chamber214. The valve222is movable in the front-rear direction8between a closing position and an open position. When the valve222is located at the closing position, the valve222closes the ventilation opening221. When the valve222is located at the open position, the valve222opens the ventilation opening221. The coil spring223urges the valve222in a direction in which the coil spring223moves the valve222from the open position to the closing position, i.e., toward the rear.

During attachment of the cartridge200to the installation case150, the rod153enters the ventilation valve chamber214via the ventilation opening221of the cartridge200. The rod153entering the ventilation valve chamber214moves the valve222toward the front from the closing position against the urging force of the coil spring223. The movement of the valve222to the open position allows the upper liquid chamber211to communicate with outside air. The configuration for opening the ventilation opening221is not limited to the specific example. In other embodiments, for example, the ventilation opening221may be closed by a film, and the rod153may penetrate the film of the ventilation opening221.

The supply tube230protrudes rearward from the rear wall202at a lower portion of the housing201. The supply tube230has an opening at its protruding end (i.e., a rear end). That is, the air valve chamber213enables the liquid chamber210communicating therewith via the through hole219to communicate with the outside of the cartridge200. The air valve chamber213is an example of a channel whose one end (e.g., the through hole219) communicates with the liquid chamber210(more specifically, the lower liquid chamber212) and whose other end (e.g., the ink supply port234) communicates with the outside of the printer200. A sealer231, a valve232, and a coil spring233are disposed in the ink valve chamber213.

The sealer231has the ink supply port234in the center thereof. The ink supply port234penetrates the sealer231in the front-rear direction8. The ink supply port234has an inside diameter slightly smaller than an outside diameter of the needle81. The valve232is movable in the front-rear direction8between a closing position and an open position. When the valve232is located at the closing position, the valve232contacts the sealer231to close the ink supply port234. When the valve232is located at the open position, the valve232is spaced from the sealer231to open the ink supply port234. The coil spring233urges the valve232in a direction in which the coil spring223moves the valve222from the open position to the closing position, i.e., toward the rear. The coil spring233has a greater urging force than the coil spring186.

During attachment of the cartridge200to the installation case150, the supply tube230enters the inside of the guide182and then the needle181enters the ink valve chamber213via the ink support port234. At that time, the needle181fluid-tightly contacts an inner circumferential surface of the ink supply port234while elastically deforming the sealer231. As the cartridge200is further moved into the installation case150, the needle181moves the valve232toward the front against the urging force of the coil spring233. In response, the valve232moves the valve185, which protrudes from the opening183of the needle181, toward the rear against the urging force of the coil spring186.

Thus, as illustrated inFIG. 5, the ink supply port234and the opening183are opened, thereby providing communication between the ink valve chamber213of the supply tube230and the internal space of the needle181. That is, in a state where the cartridge200is fully attached to the installation case150, the ink valve chamber213and the internal space of the needle181constitute a channel that may provide communication between the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200and the liquid chamber171of the tank160.

Further, in such a state, the liquid chamber210and the liquid chamber171partially overlap each other as viewed in the horizontal direction. This configuration may therefore enable the ink stored in the liquid chamber210to move to the liquid chamber171of the tank160via the supply tube230and the joint180, which connected to each other, due to a hydraulic pressure difference therebetween.

As illustrated inFIGS. 4A and 4B, the upper wall204of the cartridge200includes a protrusion241. The protrusion241protrudes upward from an exterior surface of the upper wall204and is elongated in the front-rear direction8. The protrusion241includes a lock surface242and an inclined surface243. The lock surface242and the inclined surface243are located above the upper wall204. The lock surface242faces toward the front in the front-rear direction8and extends in both the up-down direction7and the right-left direction9. The inclined surface243is angled relative to the upper wall204and faces upwardly rearward.

In a state where the cartridge200is fully attached to the installation case150, the lock surface242contacts the lock pin156. During attachment of the cartridge200to the installation case150, the inclined surface243guides the lock pin156to a position where the lock pin156contacts the lock surface242. In a state where the lock surface242and the lock pin156contact with each other, the cartridge200is retained at the particular position (refer toFIG. 5) against the urging force of each of the coil springs186,223, and233.

The cartridge200further includes a plate-shaped member that is disposed further to the front than the lock surface42. The plate-shaped member extends upward from the upper wall204. The plate-shaped member has an upper surface that may be an operable portion244to be used by a user for detaching the cartridge200from the installation case150. In a state where the cartridge200is fully attached to the installation case150and the cover87is located at the uncovering position, the operable portion244may be accessed by the user. As the operable portion244is pressed downward, the cartridge200rotates and the lock surface242moves to below the lock pin156. Thus, the cartridge200is allowed to be detached from the installation case150.

The cartridge200further includes the light blocking rib245at the exterior surface of the upper wall204. The light blocking rib245is disposed further to the rear than the protrusion241. The light blocking rib245protrudes upward from the exterior surface of the upper wall204and is elongated in the front-rear direction8. The light blocking rib245may be made of material that may block light outputted by the light emitter of the installation sensor154or have a color that may block the light. In a state where the cartridge200is fully attached to the installation case150, the light blocking rib245is located on a path in which light emitted from the light emitter travels to the light receiver. That is, the installation sensor154is configured to, in response to a detection that a corresponding cartridge200is fully attached to the installation case150, output a low level signal to the controller130. On the other hand, the installation sensor154is configured to, in response to a detection that a corresponding cartridge200is not fully attached to the installation case150, output a high level signal to the controller130. That is, the controller130determines, based on a type of a signal outputted by the installation sensor154, whether a corresponding cartridge200is fully attached to the installation case150.

The cartridge200further includes an IC board247at the exterior surface of the upper wall204. The IC board247is disposed between the light blocking rib245and the protrusion241in the front-rear direction8. The IC board247includes the plurality of electrodes248. The IC board247further includes a memory. The electrodes248are electrically connected to the memory of the IC board247. The electrodes248are exposed at an upper surface of the IC board247and are configured to be electrically connected to the contact152in a state where the cartridge200is fully attached to the installation case150. The controller130is configured to read and write various information from and into the memory of the IC board247via the contact152and the electrodes248. The IC board247is an example of a cartridge memory. Each of the contacts152is an example of an interface.

The memory of the IC board247stores various information such as an ink amount Vc, individual identifying information identifying the cartridge200, and type information indicating the cartridge200. For a completely new cartridge200, a memory of its IC board247stores an initial ink amount Vc0as the ink amount Vc. The initial ink amount Vc0indicates an amount of ink stored in a completely new cartridge200. Each of various information stored in the memory of the IC board247is an example of cartridge information. The completely new cartridge200refers to a cartridge200that has not been used yet before and that has not yet allowed ink to flow out from the cartridge200after manufactured and sold.

The memory of the IC board247has, for example, an unrewritable area in which information is not rewritable by the controller130and a rewritable area in which information is rewritable by the controller130. For example, the identifying information and the type information are stored in the unrewritable area, and the ink amount Vc is stored in the rewritable area.

As illustrated inFIG. 6, the controller130includes a CPU131, a ROM132, a RAM133, an EEPROM134, and an ASIC135. The ROM132stores a program used by the CPU131for controlling various operations. The RAM133is used as a storage area for temporality storing data and/or signals to be used by the CPU131during execution of the program, and also as a working area for processing data. The EEPROM134stores setting information that needs to be retained after power of the printer10is turned off. The ROM132, the RAM133, and the EEPROM134are an example of a memory.

The ASIC135is used for activating the feed roller23, the conveying rollers25, the output rollers27, and the head21. The controller130is configured to control the ASIC135to drive a motor to rotate the feed roller23, the conveying rollers25, and the output rollers27. The controller130is further configured to control the ASIC135to output a drive signal to a drive element of the head21to eject ink through the head21via one or more of the nozzles29. The ASIC135is configured to output various drive signals in accordance with an amount of ink to be ejected via each of the nozzles29.

The printer10further includes a display17and an operation panel22, each of which is connected to the ASIC135. The display17may be, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescent display. The display17includes a screen for displaying various information. The display17is an example of a notification device Nevertheless, the notification device is not limited to the display17. In other embodiments, for example, the notification device may be a speaker, an LED lamp, or a combination of the speaker and the LED lamp. The operation panel22is configured to output an operation signal to the controller130in response to a user operation. The operation panel22may include, for example, a physical button and/or a touchscreen on the display17.

The contacts152, the cover sensor88, the installation sensors154, the liquid level sensors155, and the temperature sensor89are also each connected to the ASIC135electrically. The controller130is configured to access the memory of the IC board247of the cartridge200fully attached to the installation case150. The controller130is configured to detect the position of the cover87via the cover sensor88. The controller130is further configured to determine, via the installation sensor154, whether a corresponding cartridge200is fully attached or not to the installation case150. The controller130is further configured to determine whether the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber171is higher than or equal to the predetermined level P. The controller130is further configured to detect the temperature in the installation case150indirectly via the temperature sensor89.

The ROM132stores a predetermined ink amount Vsc and a predetermined ink amount Vcc. The predetermined ink amount Vsc refers to an amount of ink stored in the liquid chamber171of the tank160when a corresponding liquid level sensor155outputs a high level signal. The predetermined ink amount Vcc refers to an amount of ink stored in the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200when the corresponding liquid level sensor155outputs a high level signal. In the illustrative embodiment, the predetermined ink amount Vcc may be zero.

The ROM132stores a plurality of specified times ST for each of the types of the cartridges200.

The ROM132further stores temperature correction information. The temperature correction information may indicate a correspondence between temperature t in the installation case150detected by the temperature sensor89and a correction degree Δ of each specified time ST. For example, the temperature correction information may be expressed by an equation of the form Δ=p*t+q (“p” and “q” are constants). In other embodiments, for example, the temperature correction information may be a table indicating the correspondence between the temperature t and the correction degree Δ.

The EEPROM134stores various information in association with the respective four cartridges200to be attached to the installation case150, i.e., in association with the respective tanks160with which the respective cartridges200communicate. The various information includes, for example, the ink amount Vc, the ink amount Vs, a function F1, a function F2, a C_Empty flag, an S_Empty flag, a count value SN, a count value TN, a threshold Nth, and an initial setting flag.

The ink amount Vc, the identifying information, and the type information may be read by the controller130from the memory of the IC board247via the contact152in a state where the cartridge200is fully attached to the installation case150. Nevertheless, in other embodiments, for example, the function F1and the function F2may be stored in the ROM132instead of the EEPROM134.

The ink amount Vc indicates an amount of ink stored in the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200. The ink amount Vs indicates an amount of ink stored in the liquid chamber171of the tank160. The ink amount Vs is calculated using appropriate one of the function F1and the function F2. The ink amount Vc is calculated using the ink amount Vs calculated using appropriate one of the function F1and the function F2, and a total ink amount Vt.

The function F1and the function F2may be information that indicates a correspondence among the total ink amount Vt and the ink amount Vs. Ink stored in the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200and ink stored in the liquid chamber171of the tank160are in equilibrium while the surface of ink stored in the liquid chamber210and the surface of ink stored in the liquid chamber171are at the same level in the top-bottom direction7. That is, when equilibrium is reached, ink stops moving between the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200and the liquid chamber171of the tank160. A relationship between the total ink amount Vt and the ink amount Vs in equilibrium may be expressed by an approximation in which an actual measured value is approximated by a function.

For example, the relationship of the ink amount Vs relative to the total ink amount Vt may be expressed approximately using the functions F1and F2. The function F1indicates the relationship of the ink amount Vs relative to the total ink amount Vt when the total ink amount Vt is greater than or equal to a threshold Vh. For example, the function F1may be expressed by an equation of the form Vs=a*Vt+b (“a” and “b” are constants). The function F2indicates the relationship of the ink amount Vs relative to the total ink amount Vt when the total ink amount Vt is lower than the threshold Vh. For example, the function F2may be expressed by an equation of the form Vs=c*Vt+d (“c” and “d” are constants).

The threshold Vh indicates a value that corresponds to the total ink amount Vt when the surface of ink stored in the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200contacts the upper surface215U or the lower surface251L of the partition wall215. Therefore, when the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200is higher than the partition wall215, i.e., when the total ink amount Vt is greater than or equal to the threshold Vh, the ink amount Vs is calculated using the function F1. When the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200contacts the partition wall215or lower than the partition wall215, i.e., when the total ink amount Vt is less than the threshold Vh, the ink amount Vs is calculated using the function F2. The ink amount Vc is calculated by subtraction of the ink amount Vs from the total ink amount Vt.

The count value SN indicates a value corresponding to an ink discharge amount Dh (i.e., an ink amount indicated by a drive signal) which is instructed to the head21to discharge after a signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155has changed from the low level signal to the high level signal. The count value SN is updated to increase and approach to a threshold Nth. In this case, an initial value of the count value SN may be 0 (zero). The threshold Nthcorresponds to a volume of a portion of the liquid chamber171between the upper edge of the outlet174and the predetermined level P. Nevertheless, in other embodiments, for example, the count value SN may be updated to decrease and approach to a threshold Nth. In such a case, an initial value of the count value SN may be a value corresponding to the volume, and the threshold Nthmay be 0 (zero).

The count value TN indicates a value corresponding to an ink discharge amount Dh (i.e., an ink amount indicated by a drive signal) which is instructed to the head21to discharge after a signal outputted by the installation sensor154has changed from the high level signal to the low level signal. The count value TN increases and its initial value may be “0 (zero)”. Nevertheless, in other embodiments, for example, the count value TN may decrease. In such a case, the initial value of the count value TN may be a value corresponding to the total ink amount Vt.

The C_Empty flag indicates information as to whether the cartridge200is in a cartridge empty state. The C_Empty flag is assigned with one of values “ON” and “OFF”. The value “ON” indicates that the cartridge200is in the cartridge empty state. The value “OFF” indicates that the cartridge200is not in the cartridge empty state.

The cartridge empty state refers to a state where the cartridge200(more specifically, the liquid chamber210) is substantially empty of ink. In other words, the cartridge empty state refers to a state where ink does not move from the liquid chamber210to the liquid chamber171communicating with each other. In still other words, the cartridge empty state refers to a state where the surface level of ink stored in the tank160communicating with the cartridge200is lower than the predetermined level P.

The S_Empty flag indicates information as to whether the tank160is in an ink empty state. The S_Empty flag is assigned with one of values “ON” and “OFF”. The value “ON” indicates that the tank160is in the ink empty state. The value “OFF” indicates that the tank160is not in the ink empty state. The ink empty state refers to a state where the surface level of ink stored in the tank160(more specifically, the liquid chamber171) has reached proximity to the upper edge of the outlet174. In other words, the ink empty state refers to a state where the count value SN is greater than or equal to the threshold Nth. If ink ejection is performed by the head21repeatedly even after the tank160has become in the ink empty state, the surface level of ink stored in the tank160may become lower than the upper edge of the outlet174. This may cause intrusion of air into the ink channel that extends from the tank160to the head21or intrusion of air into the head21(i.e., air-in). Such an air-in may further cause insufficient supply of ink to each of the nozzles29, thereby causing an ink ejection failure.

Operation of Printer10

Referring toFIGS. 7 to 9C, an operation performed by the printer10according to the embodiment will be described. Each processing illustrated inFIGS. 7 and 8may be executed by the CPU131of the controller130. Each processing described below may be executed by the CPU131that reads the program stored in the ROM132or may be executed by a hardware circuit installed on the controller130. An order in which processing steps are executed in each processing may be changed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Image Recording Processing

The controller130is configured to, in response to input of a recording instruction to the printer10, execute image recording processing (refer toFIG. 7). The recording instruction is an example of a discharge instruction for causing the printer10to execute recording processing for recording an image represented by an image data onto a sheet. In one example, the printer10may receive a user operation for providing a recording instruction, via the operation panel22. In another example, the printer10may receive a recording instruction via its communication interface from an external device.

The controller130determines, with respect to each of the four S_Empty flags of the cartridges200, which value is assigned (e.g., step S11). If the controller130determines that at least one of the S_Empty flags of the cartridges200is assigned with the value “ON” (e.g., “ON” in step S11), the controller130displays an S_Empty notification screen on the display17(e.g., step S12). The S_Empty notification screen provides notification to the user that a tank160corresponding to the S_Empty flag that is assigned with the value “ON” is in the ink empty state and thus ink discharge via the head21cannot be performed. The S_Empty notification screen may include information indicating, for example, color of ink stored in the tank160having the ink empty state, and/or the ink amounts Vc and Vs. In other embodiments, for example, if the controller130determines that at least one of the S_Empty flags of the cartridges200is assigned with the value “ON” (e.g., “ON” in step S11), in step S12, the controller130may display a C_Empty notification screen in addition to the S_Empty notification screen. Displaying the S_Empty notification screen on the display17in step S12is an example of causing the notification device to provide a first alert.

FIG. 9Aillustrates an example of the S_Empty notification screen. The S_Empty notification screen may include objects251,252, and253. The object251may be a message prompting replacement of one or more cartridges200, for example, a text string “PLEASE REPLACE INK CARTRIDGE.” The object252may indicate a type of the one or more cartridges200that need to be replaced, for example, a letter “M” indicating a magenta cartridge200. The object253may illustrate the one or more empty cartridges200.

The controller130executes processing in steps S13to S22on each of the one or more cartridges200whose S_Empty flags are assigned with the value “ON” (hereinafter, also referred to as an “ON” cartridge200). That is, processing in each of steps S13to S22are executed on each of the one or more “ON” cartridges200, among the four cartridges200. The same processing is executed on all of the one or more “ON” cartridges200in steps S13to S22, and therefore, a description will be provided on processing in steps S13to S22to be executed on one of the one or more “ON” cartridges200.

Subsequent to step S12, the controller130receives a signal outputted by the installation sensor154(e.g., step S13). Subsequent to step S13, the controller130determines whether the signal received from the installation sensor154has changed from the high level signal (H) to the low level signal (L) (e.g., step S14). The controller130repeats steps S13and S14at predetermined intervals until the controller130determines that the signal outputted by the installation sensor154has changed from the low level signal (L) to the high level signal (H) and then has further changed from the high level signal (H) to the low level signal (L) again (e.g., NO in step S14). In other words, the controller130repeats steps S13and S14while the currently used cartridge200is detached from the installation case150and until a new cartridge200is fully attached to the installation case150as its replacement.

If, in step S14, the controller130determines that the controller130has received the low level signal, the high level signal, and the low level signal again in this order from the installation sensor154(e.g., YES in step S14), in step S15, the controller130reads the identifying information, the type information, and the ink amount Vc from the IC board247of the currently-attached cartridge200via the contact152and stores the read information in the EEPROM134. At that time, the controller130overwrites the ink amount Vc currently stored in the EEPROM134with the newly obtained ink amount Vc (e.g., the ink amount Vc read from the IC board247).

Subsequent to step S15, the controller130closes the S_Empty notification screen and displays an ink refilling notification screen on the display17(e.g., step S16). The ink refilling notification screen provides notification to the user that ink is flowing into a corresponding tank160from the cartridge200. Displaying the ink refilling notification screen on the display17is an example of causing the notification device to provide a third alert.

FIG. 9Billustrates an example of the ink refilling notification screen. The ink refilling notification screen may include objects254and255. The object254may be a message informing the user that ink is flowing into a corresponding tank160from the cartridge200, for example, a text string “TANK (2) IS BEING REFILLED WITH INK OF CARTRIDGE (1)”. The object255may illustrate a newly-attached cartridge200and a corresponding tank160in the printer10.

Subsequent to step S16, the controller130determines whether the signal received from the liquid level sensor155has changed from the high level signal (H) to the low level signal (L) (e.g., step S17). In response attachment of the completely new cartridge200to the installation case150, ink flows from the liquid chamber210of the newly-attached cartridge200to the liquid chamber171of the corresponding tank160. In response to the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber171having reached the predetermined level P, the signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155changes from the high level signal to the low level signal. If the controller130determines that the signal received from the liquid level sensor155has not changed from the high level signal to the low level signal (e.g., NO in step S17), the controller130executes processing for determining an elapsed time T (e.g., step S18).

The controller130reads an appropriate specified time ST from the ROM132based on the type information read from the IC board247of the newly-attached cartridge200in step S15, and stores the read specified time ST in the RAM133. Then, the controller130corrects the specified time ST stored in the RAM133, based on the temperature t indicated by a signal received from the temperature sensor89and the temperature correction information stored in the ROM132. More specifically, for example, the controller130calculates a correction amount A based on the temperature correction information (e.g., Δ=p*t+q (“p” and “q” are constants)), and then obtains a corrected specified time ST by adding the correction amount A to the original specified time ST read from the ROM132.

Thereafter, the controller130determines an elapsed time T that may be an amount of time that passes from occurrence of the event that the controller130determines that the controller130has received the low level signal, the high level signal, and the low level signal in this order from the installation sensor154(e.g., YES in step S14) until the current time. In one example, the controller130may store, in the RAM133, the time at which the controller130receives the low level signal after receiving the high level signal from the installation sensor154. The controller130may then determine the elapsed time T based on the time stored in the RAM133and the current time. In another example, the controller130may start a timer when the controller130receives the low level signal after receiving the high level signal from the installation sensor154, and determine the elapsed time T based on the time indicated by the timer.

The controller130determines whether the elapsed time T has exceeded the corrected specified time ST (e.g., step S18). If the controller130determines that the elapsed time T has not exceeded the corrected specified time ST (e.g., NO in step S18), the controller130repeats steps S17and S18until the controller130receives the low level signal or until the controller130determines that the elapsed time T has exceeded the corrected specified time ST. That is, the controller130waits until the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber171rises to the predetermined level P or until the elapsed time T has exceeded the corrected specified time ST since the cartridge200is attached to the installation case150.

If the controller130determines that the elapsed time T has exceeded the corrected specified time ST (e.g., YES in step S18), the controller130closes the ink refilling notification screen and displays the S_Empty notification screen on the display17(e.g., step S19). The S_Empty flag screen displayed in step S19may be the same as or different from the S_Empty flag screen displayed in step S12. Subsequent to step S19the controller130executes step S11and the subsequent steps again. Displaying the S_Empty notification screen on the display17in step S19is an example of causing the notification device to provide a fourth alert.

If the controller130determines that the signal received from the liquid level sensor155has changed from the high level signal (H) to the low level signal (L) (e.g., YES in step S17), the controller130calculates the total ink amount Vt of the post-cartridge replacement. More specifically, the controller130calculates the ink amount Vs of the pre-cartridge replacement based on the count value SN of the pre-cartridge replacement stored in the EEPROM134and the ink amount Vsc stored in the ROM132(Vs=Vsc−SN), and stores the calculated ink amount Vs in the EEPROM134. The ink amount Vs of the pre-cartridge replacement is equal to the total ink amount Vt of the pre-cartridge replacement. Thereafter, the controller130calculates the total ink amount Vt of the post-cartridge replacement based on the calculated ink amount Vs and the ink amount Vc read from the memory of the IC board247of the replacement cartridge200(Vt=Vs+Vc). With the cartridge replacement, the ink amount Vc that indicates the amount of ink stored in the liquid chamber210of the newly attached cartridge200is added to the ink amount Vs (=Vsc−SN) that indicates the amount of ink stored in the liquid chamber171of the corresponding tank160immediately before the replacement cartridge200is attached.

Subsequent to step S17, the controller130calculates, based on the calculated total ink amount Vt and an appropriate one of the functions F1and F2read from the EEPROM134, the ink amount Vc and the ink amount Vs after ink movement from the liquid chamber210to the liquid chamber171is completed (e.g., step S20). In response to cartridge replacement, ink stored in the liquid chamber210of the newly-attached cartridge200flows into the liquid chamber171of the corresponding tank160via the needle181. Thus, the ink amount Vc of ink stored in the liquid chamber210decreases and the ink amount Vt of ink stored in the liquid chamber171increases. Consequently, ink stored in the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200and ink stored in the liquid chamber171of the tank160become in equilibrium while the surface of ink stored in the liquid chamber210and the surface of ink stored in the liquid chamber171are at the same level in the top-bottom direction7.

The controller130determines whether the obtained total ink amount Vt is greater than or equal to the threshold Vh. For example, in a case where a completely new cartridge200is attached to the installation case150, the calculated total ink amount Vt is greater than or equal to the threshold Vh. If the controller130determines that the calculated total ink amount Vt is greater than or equal to the threshold Vh, the controller130calculates the ink amount Vs based on the total ink amount Vt using the function F1. The controller130then stores the calculated ink amount Vc in the EEPROM134(e.g., step S21). At that time, the controller130overwrites the ink amount Vs currently stored in the EEPROM134with the newly calculated ink amount Vs. The controller130also stores the calculated ink amount Vc in the memory of the IC board247via the contact152(e.g., step S21). At that time, the controller130overwrites the ink amount Vc currently stored in the IC board247with the newly calculated ink amount Vc.

Subsequent to step S21, the controller130clears the ink empty state and the cartridge empty state (e.g., step S22).

More specifically, for example, the controller130assigns the value “OFF” to each of the S_Empty flag and the C_Empty flag. Further, the controller130clears an alert by closing the one or more currently displayed screens, e.g., one or both of the S_Empty notification screen and the C_Empty notification screen. The controller130displays the calculated ink amounts Vc and Vs on the display17. The controller130may also display the calculated total ink amount Vt on the display17. The total ink amount Vt and the ink amounts Vc and Vs may be indicated by numeric values or by images such as a bar indicator. Both of the ink amount Vc and the ink amount Vs are not necessarily indicated. In one example, one of the ink amount Vc and the ink amount Vs, for example, only the ink amount Vc may be indicated. Subsequent to step S22, the controller130executes step S11and the subsequent steps again.

If the controller130determines that none of the S_Empty flags is assigned with the value “ON”, i.e., if the controller130determines that all of the S_Empty flags are assigned with the value “OFF” (e.g., OFF in step S11), the controller130obtains a signal currently outputted by each of the four liquid level sensors155(e.g., step S23). In step S23, the controller130stores, in the RAM133, information indicating one of the high level signal and the low level signal received from each of the liquid level sensors155.

Subsequent to step S23, the controller130executes recording of one of one or more images represented by image data included in the recording instruction, onto a single sheet (e.g., step S24). More specifically, for example, the controller130controls the feed roller23and the conveying rollers25to convey one of one or more sheets supported by the feed tray15. The controller130also controls the head21to eject ink therefrom and controls the output rollers27to output the sheet on which the image has been recorded, onto the output tray16. That is, in a case where all of the four S_Empty flags are assigned with the value “OFF” (e.g., OFF in step S11), the controller130executes step S24. That is, the controller130allows the head21to discharge ink. In a case where at least one of the four S_Empty flags is assigned with the value “ON” (e.g., ON in step S11), the controller130does not executes step S24. That is, the controller130prohibits ink discharge through the head21.

In response to completing image recording onto a single sheet in accordance with the recording instruction, the controller130obtains a signal currently outputted by each of the four liquid level sensors155(e.g., step S25). Similar to step S23, the controller130stores, in the RAM133, information indicating one of the high level signal and the low level signal received from each of the installation sensors155(e.g., step S25). Subsequent to step S25, the controller130executes count processing (e.g., step S26). The count processing may be for updating the count values TN and SN, and the values of the C_Empty flag and the S_Empty flag based on the signals received from the each of the liquid level sensors155in steps S23and S25. Details of the count processing will be described later with reference toFIG. 8.

Subsequent to step S26, the controller130repeats steps S11to S27until all of the one or more images represented by the image data included in the recording instruction have been recorded on respective sheets, i.e., until no more image is left for another page (e.g., YES in step S27). In response to completing recording of all of the one or more images represented by the image data included in the recording instruction onto the respective sheets (e.g., NO in step S27), the controller130may determine, with respect to each of the four S_Empty flags and/or each of the four C_Empty flags, which value is assigned (e.g., steps S28and S29).

More specifically, for example, if the controller130determines that at least one of the S_Empty flags is assigned with the value “ON” (e.g., ON in step S28), the controller130displays the S_Empty notification screen on the display17(e.g., step S30). Step S30is another example of causing the notification device to provide the first alert.

If the controller130determines that all of the S_Empty flags are assigned with the value “OFF” and at least one of the C_Empty flags is assigned with the value “ON” (e.g., OFF in step S28and ON in step S29), the controller130displays the C_Empty notification screen on the display17(e.g., step S31).

The S_Empty flag screen displayed in step S30may be the same as the S_Empty flag screen displayed in step S12. The C_Empty notification screen provides notification to the user that the cartridge200corresponding to the C_Empty flag assigned with the value “ON” is in the cartridge empty state. The C_Empty notification screen may include information indicating, for example, color of ink stored in the cartridge200having the cartridge empty state, and/or the ink amounts Vc and Vs.

FIG. 9Cillustrates an example of the C_Empty notification screen. Similar to the S_Empty notification screen (refer toFIG. 9A), the C_Empty notification screen may include the objects251,252, and253. The C_Empty notification screen may further include an object256. The object256may be a message informing the user that printing is available without cartridge replacement, for example, a text string “PRINTING IS AVAILABLE USING INK REMAINING IN TANK.”

If the controller130determines that all of the S_Empty flags are assigned with the value “OFF” and also determines that all of the C_Empty flags are assigned with the value “OFF” (e.g., OFF in step S29), the controller130ends the image recording processing.

Nevertheless, the discharge instruction is not limited to the recording instruction. In other embodiments, for example, the discharge instruction may be a maintenance instruction for instructing maintenance of the nozzles29(e.g., purging). The controller130is further configured to, in response to receiving a maintenance instruction via the operation panel22, execute similar processing described inFIG. 7. Nevertheless, in such a case, the following are different points from the case where the recording instruction has been received. In step S24, the controller130controls a maintenance mechanism to perform ink discharge via the nozzles29. Subsequent to the count processing, the controller130skips step S27and executes step S28and the subsequent steps.

Count Processing

Hereinafter, referring toFIG. 8, the count processing executed by the controller130in step S26will be described. The controller130executes the count processing on the four cartridges200individually. Nevertheless, the same processing is executed on all of the cartridges200, and therefore, a description will be provided with respect to the count processing to be executed on one of the cartridges200.

The controller130compares the information indicating the signal received from the liquid level sensor155stored in the RAM133in step S23with the information indicating the signal received from the liquid level sensor155stored in the RAM133in step S25(e.g., step S41). That is, the controller130determines, with respect to the signal outputted by each of the liquid level sensors155, whether the type of signal is different between before and after step S24which was executed immediately before the count processing (e.g., step S26).

If the controller130determines that both of the information indicating the signal received from the liquid level sensor155stored in the RAM133in step S23and the information indicating the signal received from the liquid level sensor155stored in the RAM133in step S25indicate the low level signal (L) (i.e., if the controller130determines that the type of the signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155is the same between before and after step S24) (e.g., L to L in step S41), the controller130updates the count value TN (e.g., step S42). That is, the controller130adds, to the count value TN, a value corresponding to the ink amount for discharge instructed immediately before step S24.

Subsequent to step S42, the controller130calculates the current total ink amount Vt (e.g., step S43). More specifically, for example, the controller130calculates the total ink amount Vt of the post-cartridge replacement that is a sum of the ink amounts Vc and Vs stored in the EEPROM134after cartridge replacement. Then, the controller130calculates the current total ink amount Vt by subtracting the ink amount corresponding to the count value TN from the calculated total value Vt (Vt=Vt−TN). The controller130calculates, based on the calculated current total ink amount Vt and an appropriate one of the functions F1and F2, the ink amount Vc and the ink amount Vs (e.g., step S43).

The controller130determines whether the calculated current total ink amount Vt is greater than or equal to the threshold Vh. If the controller130determines that the calculated current total ink amount Vt is greater than or equal to the threshold Vh, the controller130calculates the ink amount Vs based on the current total ink amount Vt using the function F1. If the controller130determines that the calculated current total ink amount Vt is less than the threshold Vh, the controller130calculates the ink amount Vs based on the current total ink amount Vt using the function F2. The controller130then calculates the ink amount Vc by subtracting the calculated ink amount Vs from the current total ink amount Vt.

Subsequent to step S43, the controller130displays the calculated total ink amount Vt or both of the calculated ink amounts Vc and Vs on the display17(e.g., step S44). Subsequent to step S34, the controller130overwrites the ink amount Vc currently stored in the IC board247of the cartridge200with the newly calculated ink amount Vc (e.g., step S45).

If the controller130determines that the information stored in the RAM133in step S23indicates the low level signal (L) and the information stored in the RAM133in step S25indicates the high level signal (H) (i.e., if the controller130determines that the type of the signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155is different between before and after step S24) (e.g., L to H in step S41), the controller130assigns the value “ON” to the C_Empty flag (e.g., step S46). Such change of the signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155occurs when the surface level of ink stored in the liquid level171reaches the predetermined level P during execution of step S24. From then on, ink does not move between the cartridge200and the tank160.

Subsequent to step S46, the controller130reads the predetermined ink amount Vcc (=0) from the ROM132and assigns the predetermined ink amount Vcc to the ink amount Vc (e.g., step S47). Similarly, the controller130reads the predetermined ink amount Vsc from the ROM132and assigns the predetermined ink amount Vsc to the ink amount Vc (e.g., step S47). Here, the predetermined ink amount Vsc corresponds to the volume of a portion of the liquid chamber171between the upper edge of the outlet174and the surface of ink lower than the predetermined level P. The ink amounts Vc and Vs calculated in the count processing may include errors. Therefore, the controller130resets the accumulated errors by assigning the predetermined ink amount Vcc and the predetermined ink amount Vsc to the ink amount Vc and the ink amount Vs, respectively, at the timing at which the signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155changes from the low level signal to the high level signal. Subsequent to step S46, the controller130calculates the current total ink amount Vt as the same value as the ink amount Vs (Vt=Vsc) (e.g., step S47). When the ink amount Vc becomes 0 (zero), the total ink amount Vt is equal to the ink amount Vs.

Subsequent to this, the controller130displays the current total ink amount Vt or both of the current ink amounts Vc and Vs on the display17(e.g., step S48). Subsequent to step S48, the controller130overwrites the ink amount Vc currently stored in the IC board247of the cartridge200with the newly calculated ink amount Vc (=0) (e.g., step S49).

The signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155may change during execution of step S24. Therefore, the predetermined ink amount Vsc read in step S47indicates the ink amount immediately prior to the change of the signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155but not the ink amount stored in the tank160at the moment when the signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155changes. Nevertheless, there is only a slight difference in those ink amounts. Therefore, the predetermined ink amount Vsc read in step S47may be approximately equal to the ink amount Vs at the moment when the signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155changes.

Subsequent to step S49, the controller130updates the count value SN stored in the EEPROM134, using a value corresponding to the ink amount for discharge instructed immediately before step S24(e.g., step S50). In other words, if the controller130determines that the signal received from the liquid level sensor155has changed from the low level signal (L) to the high level signal (H), the controller130adds, to the count value SN stored in the EEPROM134, the value corresponding to the ink amount for discharge instructed immediately before step S24. Further, the controller130adds, to the count value TN stored in the EEPROM134, the value corresponding to the ink amount for discharge instructed immediately before step S24(e.g., step S40).

Subsequent to step S50, the controller130calculates the ink amount Vs (e.g., step S51). The ink amount Vs obtained in step S51may be calculated by a subtraction of the ink amount corresponding to the count value SN stored in the EEPROM134from the predetermined ink amount Vsc stored in the ROM132. As described above, after the signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155changes to the high level signal, the ink amount Vs is equal to the current total ink amount Vt. The ink amount Vc is equal to zero.

Subsequent to step S51, the controller130displays both of the calculated current ink amounts Vc and Vs or the calculated current total ink amount Vt on the display17(e.g., step S52). After the signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155changes to the high level signal, the ink amount Vc is equal to zero. Therefore, the controller130does not overwrite the ink amount Vc currently stored in the IC board247of the cartridge200with the newly calculated ink amount Vc.

Subsequent to step S42, the controller130compares the count value SN updated in step S50and the threshold Nth(e.g., step S53). If the controller130determines that the count value SN updated in step S50is less than the threshold Nth(e.g., NO in step S53), the controller130ends the count processing. If the controller130determines that the count value SN updated in step S50is greater than or equal to the threshold Nth(e.g., YES in step S53), the controller130assigns the value “ON” to the S_Empty flag (e.g., step S54). Thereafter, the controller130determines that at least one of the S_Empty flags is assigned with the value “ON”, the controller130prohibits ink discharge through the head21and ends the count processing.

If the controller130determines that both of the information indicating the signal received from the liquid level sensor155stored in the RAM133in step S23and the information indicating the signal received from the liquid level sensor155stored in the RAM133in step S25indicate the high level signal (L) (e.g., H to H in step S41), the controller130reads the count value SN stored in the EEPROM134. Thereafter, the controller130adds, to the read count value SN, the value corresponding the ink amount for discharge instructed immediately before step S24, and stores the updated count value SN in the EEPROM134. That is, the controller130updates the count value SN (e.g., step S50). The controller130also updates the count value TN. Subsequent to step S50, the controller130executes steps S51to S54using the count value SN updated in step S40.

Effects

According to the illustrative embodiment, in response to receipt of the low level signal from the installation sensor154after the controller130receives the low level signal from the installation sensor154and before the elapsed time T exceeds the corrected specification time ST, the controller130may close the S_Empty notification screen.

In response to receipt of the low level signal from the installation sensor154, the controller130may display the ink refilling notification screen on the display17. In response to the elapsed time T having exceeded the corrected specified time ST, the controller130may display the S_Empty notification screen again on the display17. The controller130determines how much time has elapsed (e.g., the elapsed time T) with respect to a specified time ST appropriately determined based on the type information of the newly-attached cartridge200and the signal outputted by the temperature sensor89. Thus, the controller130may accurately determine whether ink flow from the cartridge200into the tank160has resulted sufficient ink in the tank160.

ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS

In the illustrative embodiment, in response to receipt of the low level signal from the installation sensor154, the controller130closes the S_Empty notification screen and displays the ink refilling notification screen on the display17. Nevertheless, in other embodiments, for example, in response to receipt of the low level signal from the installation sensor154, the controller130may continue displaying the S_Empty notification screen without displaying the ink refilling notification screen. In still other embodiments, for example, in response to receipt of the low level signal from the installation sensor154, the controller130may close the S_Empty notification screen instead of displaying the ink refilling notification screen. That is, none of the S_Empty notification screen and the ink refilling notification screen may be displayed on the display17at that time. In either of the cases where the controller130continues displaying the S_Empty notification screen without displaying the ink refilling notification screen or where the controller130closes the S_Empty notification screen without displaying the ink refilling notification screen, it may be preferable that, in response to the elapsed time T having exceeded the corrected specified time ST (e.g., YES in step S18), the controller130display the S_Empty notification screen again on the display17. In the example cases, displaying the S_Empty notification screen on the display17is an example of causing the notification device to provide a second alert.

In the illustrative embodiment, in a case where all of the four S_Empty flags are assigned with the value “OFF”, the controller130allows the head21to discharge ink.

Thus, when a user replaces at least one cartridge200with a new one200in response to displaying of the C_Empty notification screen while all of the four S_Empty flags are assigned with the value “OFF”, the controller130allows ink discharge through the head21. In other embodiments, for example, in response to replacement of the at least one cartridge200, that is, in response to determining that the controller130has received the low level signal, the high level signal, and the low level signal in this order from the installation sensor154, the controller130may prohibit ink discharge through the head21. In such a case, in response to determining that the controller130has received the low level signal from the liquid level sensor155due to ink flow from the cartridge200to the tank160, the controller130may allow ink discharge through the head21.

In the illustrative embodiment, the controller130corrects the specified time ST based on the temperature t detected by the temperature sensor89(e.g., step S18). Higher temperature may cause lower viscosity of ink, thereby increasing the speed of ink flow from the cartridge200to the tank160. Increase in the ink flow speed may shorten the time required for the ink flow from the cartridge200to the tank160as compared with the time required by ink of the same volume having higher viscosity to flow from the cartridge200to the tank160. Consequently, it may be preferable that the specified time ST be corrected such that the corrected specified time ST is shorter as the temperature t is higher.

Nevertheless, in other embodiments, the specified time ST may be corrected based on another factor. In one example, the specified time ST may be corrected based on the ink viscosity. Higher ink viscosity may cause lower speed of ink flow from the cartridge200to the tank160. Consequently, it may be preferable that the specified time ST be corrected such that the corrected specified time ST is shorter as the temperature t is higher. In such a case, the controller130may correct the specified time ST stored in the RAM18based on information indicating the ink viscosity stored in the memory of the IC board247of the newly-attached cartridge200(e.g., step S18).

In another example, the specified time ST may be corrected based on the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200. Higher surface level of ink may cause higher speed of ink flow from the cartridge200to the tank160. Consequently, it may be preferable that the specified time ST be corrected such that the corrected specified time ST is shorter as the surface level of ink is higher. In such a case, the controller130may correct the specified time ST stored in the RAM18based on information indicating the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber210stored in the memory of the IC board247of the newly-attached cartridge200(e.g., step S18).

In still another example, the specified time ST may be corrected based on a channel resistance Rc of the newly-attached cartridge200. The channel resistance Rc may be resistance caused when air passes through a semipermeable membrane positioned in the channel extending from the ventilation opening221to the through hole218in the cassette200. Higher channel resistance Rc may cause lower speed of ink flow from the cartridge200to the tank160. Consequently, it may be preferable that the specified time ST be corrected such that the corrected specified time ST is longer as the channel resistance Rc is higher. In such a case, the controller130may correct the specified time ST stored in the RAM18based on information indicating the channel resistance Rc stored in the memory of the IC board247of the newly-attached cartridge200(e.g., step S18).

In the illustrative embodiment, if the controller130determines that the controller130has received the low level signal, the high level signal, and the low level signal in this order from the installation sensor154(e.g., YES in step S14), the controller130executes step15. That is, in response to attachment of a cartridge200to a corresponding vacant space of the installation case150, the controller executes step S15. In other words, if the controller130determines that attachment of a cartridge200to a corresponding vacant space of the installation case150has been completed, the controller130may execute step S55. Determining that the controller130has received the low level signal, the high level signal, and the low level signal in this order from the installation sensor154is an example of determining that attachment of a cartridge to the installation case150has been completed, i.e., determining that the cartridge is located at the particular position. Another example of determining that attachment of a cartridge200to the installation case150has been completed will be described.

In one example, the controller130receives the low level signal after receiving the high level signal from the cover sensor88. Then, the controller130reads the identifying information from the memory of the IC board247of the newly-attached cartridge200and compares the read identifying information of the newly-attached cartridge200with the identifying information of the previously-used cartridge200stored in the EEPROM134. If the controller130determines that the identifying information read from the memory of the IC board247is different from the identifying information stored in the EEPROM134, the controller130may execute step S35. That is, the disclosure “the controller130reads the identifying information from the memory of the IC board247of the newly-attached cartridge200and compares the read identifying information with the identifying information of the previously-used cartridge200stored in the EEPROM134. As a comparison result, the controller130determines that the identifying information read from the memory of the IC board247is different from the identifying information stored in the EEPROM134.” is another example of determining that attachment of a cartridge200to the installation case150has been completed.

In another example, the controller130may receive the low level signal after receiving the high level signal from the cover sensor88. The controller130may display, on the display17, a confirmation screen asking the user whether attachment of a cartridge200to the installation case150has been completed. While the controller130displays the confirmation screen on the display17, the controller130may receive an input onto the confirmation screen via the operation panel22. If the controller130determines that the received input corresponds to completion of the attachment of a cartridge200to the installation case150, the controller may execute step S35. That is, the disclosure “the controller130receives the low level signal after receiving the high level signal from the cover sensor88. The controller130displays, on the display17, a confirmation screen asking the user whether attachment of a cartridge200to the installation case150has been completed. While the controller130displays the confirmation screen on the display17, the controller130receives an input onto the confirmation screen via the operation panel22. The received input corresponds to completion of the attachment of a cartridge200to the installation case150” is another example of determining that attachment of a cartridge200to the installation case150has been completed.

In the illustrative embodiment, the ink supply port234of the supply tube230and the opening183of the needle183are opened, thereby providing communication between the ink valve chamber213of the supply tube230and the internal space of the needle181. Nevertheless, in other embodiments, for example, each cartridge200may have the ink supply port234in the rear wall202. In such a case, for example, the ink supply port234may be a through hole that may penetrate the rear wall202in a thickness direction of the rear wall202. The internal space of the ink supply port234is another example of the channel whose one end communicates with the liquid chamber210and whose other end communicates with the outside of the printer200. In this case, during attachment of the cartridge200to the installation case150, the needle181may enter the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200via the ink supply port234and one end (e.g., the opening183) of the needle181may be positioned in the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200. This may allow communication between the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200and the internal space of the needle180. That is, in a state where the cartridge200is fully attached to the installation case150, the internal space of the needle181may constitute a channel that may provide communication between the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200and the liquid chamber171of the tank160.

In other embodiments, for example, each cartridge160may have the opening183in the front wall162. In such a case, for example, the opening183may be a through hole that may penetrate the front wall162in a thickness direction of the front wall162. The internal space of the opening183is another example of the channel whose one end communicates with the liquid chamber210and whose other end communicates with the outside of the printer200. In this case, during attachment of the cartridge200to the installation case150, the supply tube230may enter the liquid chamber171of the tank160via the opening183and the other end (e.g., the ink supply port234) of the supply tube230may be positioned in the liquid chamber171of the tank160. This may allow communication between the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200and the internal space of the needle180. That is, in a state where the cartridge200is fully attached to the installation case150, the ink valve chamber213may constitute a channel that may provide communication between the liquid chamber210of the cartridge200and the liquid chamber171of the tank160.

In the illustrative embodiment, the controller130determines, based on the type of the signal outputted by the liquid level sensor155, whether the detection portion194of the actuator190is located at the detection position. Nevertheless, the configuration of the liquid level sensor155is not limited to the specific example as long as the liquid level sensor155can detect the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber171. In one example, the liquid level sensor155may be a sensor configured to optically detect the surface level of ink stored in the liquid chamber171using prisms having different reflectivity depending on whether ink contacts the rear wall164of the liquid chamber171. In another example, the surface level of the ink stored in the liquid chamber171may be detected by an electrode.

In the illustrative embodiment, in a case where at least one of the four S_Empty flags is assigned with the value “ON” (e.g., ON in step S11), the controller130prohibits all of the four tanks160from discharging ink through the head21. Nevertheless, in other embodiments, for example, in a case where at least one of the four S_Empty flags is assigned with the value “ON”, the controller130may prohibit only the tank160corresponding to the S_Empty flag assigned with the value “ON” from discharging ink through the head21. In still other embodiments, for example, in a case where at least one of the S_Empty flags for magenta, cyan, and yellow tanks160is assigned with the value “ON” and the S_Empty flag for the black tank160is assigned with the value “OFF”, the controller130may prohibit all of the magenta, cyan, and yellow tanks160from discharging ink through the head21but allow the black tank160to discharge ink through the head21.

The IC board247is configured to contact the contact152to be electrically connected to the contact152. Nevertheless, in other embodiments, for example, an information medium and an interface may be used instead. In such a case, data may be written and read using radio waves such as Near Field Communication (“NFC”) or Radio Frequency Identification.

In the illustrative embodiment, ink is an example of the liquid. Nevertheless, in other embodiments, for example, the liquid may be a pre-treatment liquid that may be ejected onto a sheet prior to ink ejection or water that may be used for cleaning the head21.