Patent Description:
<CIT> discloses a technology in which a print head for ejecting ink in an inkjet system is configured by adjoining an ejection module, which includes an ejection substrate equipped with an ejection port that ejects ink and a pressure generation chamber communicating with the ejection port, to a flow path member, which supplies the ink to the ejection substrate.

In the print head according to the technology disclosed in <CIT>, it is necessary to arrange the ejection substrate with high accuracy in order to form high-resolution images. However, in such a print head, the ejection module and the flow path member are integrally configured using an adhesive agent. For this reason, for example, in a case where the ink is adjusted to a high temperature and then ejected, the temperature of the ink flow path member is raised by the temperature of the ink and the flow path member thermally expands, and thus there is a risk that the position of the ejection substrate, which is arranged with high accuracy, may be misaligned.

<CIT> relates to a liquid ejecting head unit including liquid ejecting head bodies for ejecting liquid by the drive of a pressure generating device, wiring members for feeding drive signals to the pressure generating device of the liquid ejecting head bodies, and connector members including a retaining member fixed to a base member covering a wiring member connector section, wherein wiring members inserted into a wiring member connector are retained in a folded state by the retaining members.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, so as to provide a technology capable of suppressing misalignment of the arrangement position of an ejection substrate even if a flow path member that supplies ink to the ejection substrate thermally expands.

The present invention in its first aspect provides a liquid ejection head as specified in claims <NUM> to <NUM>.

The present invention in its second aspect provides a liquid ejection apparatus as specified in claim <NUM>.

According to the present invention, even if a flow path member that supplies ink to an ejection substrate thermally expands, misalignment of the arrangement position of an ejection substrate can be suppressed.

Hereinafter, an example of embodiments of a liquid ejection head and a liquid ejection apparatus is explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the present invention. Further, the positions, shapes, etc., of the constituent elements described in the embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit this invention to the range of the examples.

First, with reference to <FIG>, an explanation is given of a liquid ejection head according to the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, an inkjet print head (hereinafter simply referred to as a "print head") capable of performing printing on an object by driving a piezoelectric element to eject ink is taken as an example of the liquid ejection head for the explanation. Note that the ejection energy generation element is not limited to a piezoelectric element, and it is also possible to use an electrothermal conversion element (heater element). In this case, ink is ejected by bubbles generated by the heater element. Further, the system of ejecting liquid is not limited to the above-described systems, and various publicly-known systems can be used.

<FIG> is a schematic configuration diagram of a printing apparatus equipped with print heads, which are liquid ejection heads according to the present embodiment. The printing apparatus <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> is a printing apparatus that performs printing on the print medium P by ejecting ink from the print heads in an inkjet system. Note that the liquid ejected from the print heads is not limited to ink, and it is also possible to use a treatment liquid that performs a predetermined process on the ink ejected onto the print medium P.

The printing apparatus <NUM> is equipped with the conveyance part <NUM>, which conveys the print medium P in the +Y direction, and the printing part <NUM>, which performs printing by ejecting ink onto the print medium P conveyed by the conveyance part <NUM>. The conveyance part <NUM> includes the belt <NUM> stretched endlessly around the two rollers <NUM> and <NUM>. The roller <NUM> is a driving roller that is driven by the driving of a driving motor, and the roller <NUM> is a follower roller that pivotally moves by the driving force of the roller <NUM> transmitted via the belt <NUM>.

The printing part <NUM> is equipped with the print heads <NUM> whose surfaces that eject ink face the print medium P which is conveyed by the conveyance part <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the printing part <NUM> includes the print heads <NUM> that eject ink of different colors, respectively. Specifically, the print head 22C that ejects cyan (C) ink, the print head <NUM> that ejects magenta (M) ink, the print head 22Y that ejects yellow (Y) ink, and the print head <NUM> that ejects black (K) ink are included. In the printing apparatus <NUM>, the array of respective print heads <NUM> is arranged along the +Y direction in the order of print head 22C, print head <NUM>, print head 22Y, and print head <NUM>.

In the respective print heads <NUM>, arrays of multiple ejection ports for ejecting ink are arranged in the X direction which intersects (perpendicularly in the present embodiment) the Y direction. The length in the X direction of an ejection port array formed by arranging an array of multiple ejection ports in the print heads <NUM> corresponds to the length in the width direction (X direction) of the largest print medium P that can be printed by the printing apparatus <NUM>. The respective print heads <NUM> are connected to ink tanks (not illustrated in the drawings) that store the corresponding inks and are configured so that the inks circulate between the ink tanks and the print heads <NUM>. Note that various publicly-known technologies can be used for the configuration of circulating the inks between the ink tanks and the print heads <NUM>, and thus a detailed explanation thereof is omitted.

Although the present embodiment is configured so that the inks circulate between the ink tanks and the print heads <NUM>, there is not a limitation as such. For example, there may be such a form in which, without circulating the inks, two tanks are installed with a print head interposed therebetween, so that the ink in the print head <NUM> is made to flow by flowing the ink from one tank to the other tank. Further, in the printing apparatus <NUM>, at the timing where the printing start position on the print medium P is positioned below the print head 22C, the C ink is ejected under the control of a control part (not illustrated in the drawings) which controls the printing apparatus <NUM>. Thereafter, the print medium P is conveyed, and ink is ejected from the print head <NUM>, print head 22Y, and print head <NUM> in the same manner, so as to thereby perform printing on the print medium P. That is, in the present embodiment, the printing apparatus <NUM> performs printing on a print medium by conveying the print medium once in the +Y direction. The configuration of the printing apparatus <NUM> is not limited to such a full-line type configuration as described above and may be a serial scan type configuration or a flatbed type configuration.

Next, an explanation is given of the configuration of print heads mounted on the printing apparatus <NUM>. <FIG> are perspective configuration diagrams of a print head. <FIG> is a diagram viewed from the downstream side in the +Z direction, and <FIG> is a diagram viewed from the upstream side in the +Z direction. <FIG> are perspective configuration diagrams of a substrate part and a flow path part accommodated inside the print head of <FIG>. <FIG> is the substrate part, and <FIG> is the flow path part. <FIG> is an exploded diagram of the print head.

The print head <NUM> is equipped with the substrate part <NUM>, which includes the print element substrate <NUM> capable of ejecting ink, and the flow path part <NUM>, in which a flow path for supplying and collecting ink to and from the print element substrate <NUM> is formed (see <FIG>). Note that, in the present embodiment, an explanation is given of the case in which the print head <NUM> is equipped with one print element substrate <NUM>. In the print head <NUM>, the substrate part <NUM> and the flow path part <NUM> are connected to each other and are accommodated in the cover member <NUM> in a state of being supported by the support member <NUM> (hereinafter also referred to as a "frame"). Here, the flow path connection parts <NUM> (which are described later) for connecting to external flow paths are in the state of protruding from the upper side of the print head <NUM> (see <FIG>). Further, on the lower surface of the print head <NUM>, the print element substrate <NUM> is exposed in the state of being supported by the print element substrate support member <NUM> (which is described later) (see <FIG>).

The substrate part <NUM> is equipped with the print element substrate <NUM>, the drive circuit substrates <NUM>, the flexible wiring substrates <NUM>, and the electrical wiring substrates <NUM>. The print element substrate <NUM> is electrically connected via the drive circuit substrates <NUM>, the flexible wiring substrates <NUM>, and the electrical wiring substrates <NUM> to a control part (not illustrated in the drawings) that controls the entire printing apparatus. Note that the print element substrate <NUM> corresponds to the ejection substrate described in the related art section. That is, the print element substrate <NUM> is equipped with ejection ports and pressure generation chambers communicating with the ejection ports, and, in the pressure generation chambers, pressure is generated by driving print elements (ejection energy generation elements), so that ink is ejected from the ejection ports by the pressure. As the print elements, for example, various publicly-known elements such as electrothermal conversion elements and piezo elements can be used.

The electrical wiring substrates <NUM> are equipped with the electrical connection terminals <NUM>. Further, the electrical wiring substrates <NUM> are connected to the flexible wiring substrates <NUM> via the electrical connection parts <NUM> installed on the flexible wiring substrates <NUM>. Regarding the two side surfaces parallel to the XZ plane in the cover member <NUM>, the openings 206a are installed at the upper parts thereof. Further, if the substrate part <NUM> and the flow path part <NUM> are accommodated in the cover member <NUM>, the electrical connection terminals <NUM> are exposed to the outside through the openings 206a (see <FIG>). The wiring connected to the control part of the printing apparatus <NUM> is connected to the electrical connection terminals <NUM>. Accordingly, ejection drive signals output from the control part and the electric power necessary for ejection are input from the electrical connection terminals <NUM> and supplied to the print element substrate <NUM> via the electrical wiring substrates <NUM>, the flexible wiring substrates <NUM>, and the drive circuit substrates <NUM>.

With the wiring consolidated by the electric circuit on the electrical wiring substrates <NUM>, the number of terminals in the electrical connection terminals <NUM> can be reduced compared to the number of terminals in the print element substrate <NUM>. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the number of electrical connection parts that need to be removed at the time of replacing the print head <NUM> in the printing apparatus <NUM>. Further, the print element substrate <NUM> and parts of the flexible wiring substrates <NUM> are supported by the print element substrate support member <NUM>. If the substrate part <NUM> and the flow path part <NUM> are accommodated in the cover member <NUM>, the print element substrate support member <NUM> is supported by the support member <NUM> and thereby forms the lower surface of the print head <NUM>. The print element substrate support member <NUM> is supported so that the print element substrate <NUM> is exposed from the bottom surface of the print head <NUM>.

The flow path part <NUM> is equipped with the first flow path member <NUM>, the second flow path member <NUM>, and the third flow path member <NUM>. The first flow path member <NUM> is connected to the second flow path member <NUM> so that fluid can flow in the flow path formed therein, that is, fluidly connected. The second flow path member <NUM> is fluidly connected to the third flow path member <NUM>. Note that, if the substrate part <NUM> and the flow path part <NUM> are connected to each other, the first flow path member <NUM> is fluidly connected to the print element substrate <NUM>.

Further, the flow path part <NUM> is equipped with the fourth flow path member <NUM>, the fifth flow path member <NUM>, and the liquid supply unit <NUM>. The third flow path member <NUM> and the fourth flow path member <NUM> are connected to each other as a flow path, and the fourth flow path member <NUM> and the fifth flow path member <NUM> are fluidly connected to each other. The fifth flow path member <NUM> is connected to the liquid supply unit <NUM> via the connection part <NUM> (see <FIG>).

In the liquid supply unit <NUM>, the flow path connection parts <NUM> are installed on the upper surface thereof. Further, a filter (not illustrated in the drawings) for removing foreign substances in the flowing ink is installed inside the liquid supply unit <NUM> so as to communicate with the respective openings of the flow path connection parts <NUM>. The flow path connection parts <NUM> are connected to the ink supply system of the printing apparatus <NUM>. Specifically, the ink supply system is connected to one of the two flow path connection parts <NUM> installed in the liquid supply unit <NUM> so that ink is supplied into the liquid supply unit <NUM>, and the ink supply system is also connected to the other one of them so that ink is collected from the liquid supply unit <NUM>.

As described above, the flow path of the flow path part <NUM> is fluidly connected to the flow path of the print element substrate <NUM>. Therefore, the present embodiment is configured so that the ink circulates in the ink flow path system, which includes the flow path of the printing apparatus <NUM> and the flow path of the print head <NUM>. The liquid supplied to the liquid supply unit <NUM> passes through the fifth flow path member <NUM>, the fourth flow path member <NUM>, the third flow path member <NUM>, the second flow path member <NUM>, and the first flow path member <NUM> to be supplied to the print element substrate <NUM>. Further, the ink that is supplied to the print element substrate <NUM> but is not ejected passes through the first flow path member <NUM>, the second flow path member <NUM>, the third flow path member <NUM>, the fourth flow path member <NUM>, and the fifth flow path member <NUM> to be collected from the print element substrate <NUM> to the liquid supply unit <NUM>.

In the print head <NUM>, the electrical wiring substrate support part <NUM> is installed so as to surround the outer periphery of the liquid supply unit <NUM>. If the substrate part <NUM> and the flow path part <NUM> are connected to each other, the electrical wiring substrates <NUM> are supported by the electrical wiring substrate support part <NUM>. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that a part of the substrate part <NUM> and a part of the flow path part <NUM> form the ejection module <NUM> (see <FIG>). The configuration of the substrate part <NUM> that configures the ejection module <NUM> includes the flexible wiring substrates <NUM>, the drive circuit substrates <NUM>, and the print element substrate <NUM>. Further, the configuration of the flow path part <NUM> that configures the ejection module <NUM> includes the first flow path member <NUM>, the second flow path member <NUM>, and the third flow path member <NUM>.

Next, a detailed explanation is given of the configuration of the ejection module <NUM>. <FIG> are perspective configuration diagrams of an ejection module.

<FIG> is a diagram viewed from the downstream side in the +Z direction, and <FIG> is a diagram viewed from the upstream side in the +Z direction. <FIG> is an exploded view of the ejection module. <FIG> is a cross-sectional diagram of the VII-VII line of <FIG>. <FIG> is an enlarged diagram in the frame VIII of <FIG>.

In the ejection module <NUM>, the print element substrate <NUM> and the flexible wiring substrates <NUM> are adjoined to the print element substrate support member <NUM> so as to be supported (see <FIG>). On the flexible wiring substrates <NUM>, electrodes for grounding the drive circuit substrates <NUM> are installed, and the drive circuit substrates <NUM> are fixed with a conductive adhesive agent. In the print element substrate support member <NUM>, the print element substrate <NUM> and the drive circuit substrates <NUM> are electrically connected with the bonding wire <NUM>, and the drive circuit substrates <NUM> and the flexible wiring substrates <NUM> are electrically connected with the bonding wire <NUM> (see <FIG>).

The drive circuit substrates <NUM> are connected to the first flow path member <NUM> via the heat-dissipating member <NUM> in order to suppress a temperature rise due to heat generated at the time of driving the drive circuit substrates <NUM> (see <FIG>). Note that, in the ejection module <NUM>, the coolant flow paths <NUM> are formed with the first flow path member <NUM> and the second flow path member <NUM> right above the drive circuit substrates <NUM>. A coolant flows through this coolant flow paths <NUM>. Therefore, heat generated in the drive circuit substrates <NUM> is dissipated to the first flow path member <NUM> via the heat-dissipating member <NUM>. Further, the heat dissipated to the first flow path member <NUM> is then absorbed by the coolant in the coolant flow paths <NUM>. Therefore, it is preferable to form the first flow path member <NUM> from a material with high thermal conductivity such as alumina.

In the ejection module <NUM>, the liquid flow path part <NUM> is formed with the first flow path member <NUM>, the second flow path member <NUM>, and the third flow path member <NUM> (see <FIG>). The liquid flow path part <NUM> includes the liquid flow path part 702a, which stores ink to be supplied to the print element substrate <NUM>, and the liquid flow path part 702b, which stores ink collected from the print element substrate <NUM>. Ink is supplied from the liquid supply unit <NUM> to the liquid flow path part 702a via the fourth flow path member <NUM> and the fifth flow path member <NUM>. The ink stored in the liquid flow path part 702b is collected by the liquid supply unit <NUM> via the fourth flow path member <NUM> and the fifth flow path member <NUM>.

In the ejection module <NUM>, the first flow path member <NUM>, the second flow path member <NUM>, and the third flow path member <NUM>, which configure the flow path of ink, have approximately the same length in the Y direction. Further, the second flow path member <NUM> and the third flow path member <NUM> have approximately the same length in the X direction. The first flow path member <NUM> is formed to be longer in the X direction than the second flow path member <NUM> and the third flow path member <NUM> (see <FIG>). The second flow path member <NUM> is adhered at the approximately center position of the first flow path member <NUM> with respect to the X direction. Therefore, if the first flow path member <NUM> and the second flow path member <NUM> are adhered together, predetermined regions where the second flow path member <NUM> is not adhered are formed at both ends of the first flow path member <NUM> in the X direction (predetermined direction). In the first flow path member <NUM>, the convex parts <NUM> that protrude in the Z direction are formed in the predetermined regions, which are formed at both ends in the X direction. Note that the convex parts <NUM> extend in the Y direction at positions where the second flow path member <NUM> adhered on the first flow path member <NUM> does not come into contact. Further, the convex parts <NUM> are formed so as not to make contact with the second flow path member <NUM> adhered to the first flow path member <NUM>, for example, in the predetermined regions formed at both ends of the first flow path member <NUM> in the X direction.

Next, an explanation is given of adjoining of the ejection module <NUM> in the print head <NUM>. In the print head <NUM>, while the substrate part <NUM> and the flow path part <NUM> are accommodated in the cover member <NUM> in a state of being connected to each other, the ejection module <NUM> is supported by the support member <NUM>. Note that the cover member <NUM> is adhered to the support member <NUM> with an adhesive agent or the like, for example. <FIG> is a diagram viewed in the IX arrow of <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional diagram of the X-X line of <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional diagram of the XI-XI line of <FIG>.

In the ejection module <NUM>, the flexible wiring substrates <NUM> are bent toward the side surfaces parallel to the XZ plane of the first flow path member <NUM>, the second flow path member <NUM>, and the third flow path member <NUM> and supported by the support member <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>).

The support member <NUM> that supports the ejection module <NUM> is equipped with the opening 205a penetrating in the Z direction (see <FIG>). The opening 205a is configured of the upper opening 205a-<NUM> located downstream in the +Z direction and the lower opening 205a-<NUM> located upstream in the +Z direction (see <FIG> and <FIG>). The upper opening 205a-<NUM> and the lower opening 205a-<NUM> have approximately rectangular shapes. The opening area of the lower opening 205a-<NUM> is designed to be larger than the opening area of the upper opening 205a-<NUM>. More specifically, the opening area of the upper opening 205a-<NUM> is designed to be larger than the second flow path member <NUM> and smaller than the first flow path member <NUM>. Further, the lower opening 205a-<NUM> is designed to be larger than the first flow path member <NUM> and smaller than the print element substrate support member <NUM>.

Therefore, in the opening 205a, the inner walls are bent at the boundary between the upper opening 205a-<NUM> and the lower opening 205a-<NUM>, so that the wall surfaces <NUM> extending in the X direction (see <FIG>) and the wall surfaces <NUM> extending in the Y direction and approximately parallel to the XY plane (see <FIG>) are formed. That is, the wall surfaces <NUM> are formed at both ends of the opening 205a with respect to the Y direction, and the wall surfaces <NUM> are formed at both ends of the opening 205a with respect to the X direction. The wall surfaces <NUM> have a predetermined length in the X direction, which is a size capable of being adhered to the convex parts <NUM> formed at both ends of the first flow path member <NUM> with respect to the X direction if the ejection module <NUM> is supported by the support member <NUM>.

The ejection module <NUM> is inserted from the upstream side in the +Z direction into the opening 205a of the support member <NUM> formed as described above. If the ejection module <NUM> is inserted into the opening 205a, the second flow path member <NUM> and the third flow path member <NUM> pass through the lower opening 205a-<NUM> and are inserted into the upper opening 205a-<NUM>. On the other hand, the first flow path member <NUM> is inserted into the lower opening 205a-<NUM> but cannot be inserted into the upper opening 205a-<NUM> because the convex parts <NUM> and the wall surfaces <NUM> make contact with each other.

Then, registration of the ejection module <NUM> and the support member <NUM> is performed so that the second flow path member <NUM> does not make contact with the inner walls of the upper opening 205a-<NUM> and the first flow path member <NUM> does not make contact with the inner walls of the lower opening 205a-<NUM>. Here, the first flow path member <NUM> and the second flow path member <NUM> are arranged to face the support member <NUM> with a space therebetween. Specifically, a space is formed between the second flow path member <NUM> and the upper opening 205a-<NUM>, and the second flow path member <NUM> and the upper opening 205a-<NUM> are arranged to face each other. Further, a space is formed between the first flow path member <NUM> and the lower opening 205a-<NUM>, and the first flow path member <NUM> and the lower opening 205a-<NUM> are arranged to face each other. Note that the members such as the opening 205a, the first flow path member <NUM>, and the second flow path member <NUM> are designed so that these spaces are large enough to accept thermal expansion of the first flow path member <NUM> and the second flow path member <NUM>. That is, each member is designed so that, even if thermal expansion occurs in the first flow path member <NUM> and the second flow path member <NUM>, these flow path members do not abut on the lower opening 205a-<NUM> and the upper opening 205a-<NUM> or, even if they do, they do not deform the support member <NUM>.

Further, if the registration of the ejection module <NUM> and the support member <NUM> is performed, only the convex parts <NUM> and the wall surfaces <NUM> abut on each other, and thus these members are adhered with an adhesive agent, so that thereby the ejection module <NUM> is fixed and supported by the support member <NUM>. As described above, in the present embodiment, the ejection module <NUM> is supported by the support member <NUM> in a state where the convex parts <NUM> of the first flow path member <NUM> and the wall surfaces <NUM> of the support member <NUM> abut on each other in the inserting direction of the ejection module <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the convex parts <NUM> function as abutment parts that abut on the support member <NUM>. Further, the wall surfaces <NUM> are parts of the support member <NUM> that abut on the convex parts <NUM> of the first flow path member <NUM>.

Furthermore, if the registration of the ejection module <NUM> and the support member <NUM> is performed, the print element substrate support member <NUM> is supported by the insertion surface of the support member <NUM> through which the ejection module <NUM> is inserted, i.e., the bottom surface 205b. That is, in the present embodiment, the ejection module <NUM> is supported by the support member <NUM> by inserting the ejection module <NUM> into the support member <NUM> for engagement. Here, the +Z direction is the inserting direction for inserting the ejection module <NUM> into the support member <NUM>.

The fourth flow path member <NUM> is fluidly connected via the seal member <NUM> or the like to the ejection module <NUM> supported by the support member <NUM> as described above. Furthermore, the print head <NUM> is assembled such that the fifth flow path member <NUM>, the liquid supply unit <NUM>, and the like are fluidly connected onto the fourth flow path member <NUM> and the electrical wiring substrate support part <NUM> and the like are attached.

As explained above, the present embodiment is configured so that the ejection module <NUM> is inserted into the support member <NUM> for engagement, so as to be supported. Here, the first flow path member <NUM> and the second flow path member <NUM> are arranged to face the support member <NUM> with a space therebetween in a direction intersecting the inserting direction of the ejection module <NUM>. Note that the space has a size that can accept thermal expansion of the first flow path member <NUM> and the second flow path member <NUM>. Further, in the inserting direction, the first flow path member <NUM> is configured to make contact with the wall surfaces <NUM> of the support member <NUM>, so as to be supported.

Accordingly, the support member <NUM> is less likely to deform even if the first flow path member <NUM> and the second flow path member <NUM> thermally expand due to heat generated at the time of operating the drive circuit substrates <NUM>, heat generated by a large amount of current flowing to the flexible wiring substrates <NUM>, etc. Specifically, spaces that can accept thermal expansion of the flow path members are formed between the first flow path member <NUM> and the lower opening 205a-<NUM> and between the second flow path member <NUM> and the upper opening 205a-<NUM>. Therefore, even if thermal expansion occurs in the first flow path member and the second flow path member, the flow path members are less likely to push the opening 205a, and thus the support member <NUM> is less likely to deform.

Further, by suppressing deformation of the support member <NUM>, deformation of the print element substrate support member <NUM> which is supported by the bottom surface 205b of the support member <NUM> is suppressed. Accordingly, misalignment of the arrangement position of the print element substrate <NUM> which is supported by the print element substrate support member <NUM> is suppressed.

Next, with reference to <FIG>, an explanation is given of a liquid ejection head according to the second embodiment. Note that, in the following explanation, the same or corresponding configurations as those of the liquid ejection head according to the first embodiment described above are assigned with the same signs as those used in the first embodiment, so as to omit detailed explanations thereof.

The second embodiment differs from the above-described first embodiment in the aspect that the four print element substrates <NUM> capable of ejecting ink are arranged in a staggered pattern in the print head <NUM>.

An explanation is given of a print head as a liquid ejection head in the present embodiment. <FIG> are perspective configuration diagrams of a print head in the present embodiment. <FIG> is a diagram viewed from the downstream side in the +Z direction, and <FIG> is a diagram viewed from the upstream side in the +Z direction. <FIG> are perspective configuration diagrams of a printing part and a flow path part accommodated inside the print head of <FIG>. <FIG> is the substrate part, and <FIG> is the flow path part. <FIG> is an exploded diagram of the print head.

The print head <NUM> is equipped with the substrate part <NUM>, which includes the print element substrates <NUM> capable of ejecting ink, and the flow path part <NUM>, in which flow paths for supplying and collecting ink to and from the print element substrates <NUM> are formed (see <FIG>). In the present embodiment, the print head <NUM> is equipped with the four print element substrates <NUM>, and the print element substrates <NUM> are arranged in a staggered pattern. In the print head <NUM>, the substrate part <NUM> and the flow path part <NUM> are connected to each other and are accommodated in the cover member <NUM> in a state of being supported by the support member <NUM>. Here, the flow path connection parts <NUM> for connecting to external flow paths are in the state of exposing from the upper side of the print head <NUM> (see <FIG>). Further, on the lower surface of the print head <NUM>, the print element substrates <NUM> are exposed in the state of being supported by the print element substrate support members <NUM> (see <FIG>).

The substrate part <NUM> is equipped with the four substrate groups <NUM> including the print element substrates <NUM>, the drive circuit substrates <NUM>, and the flexible wiring substrates <NUM>, and these four substrate groups <NUM> are connected to the electrical wiring substrates <NUM>, respectively. The print element substrates <NUM> are electrically connected via the drive circuit substrates <NUM>, the flexible wiring substrates <NUM>, and the electrical wiring substrates <NUM> to a control part that controls the entire printing apparatus <NUM>.

One electrical wiring substrate <NUM> is installed for two substrate groups <NUM>, respectively. Accordingly, the substrate part <NUM> is equipped with the two electrical wiring substrates <NUM>. The electrical wiring substrates <NUM> are connected to the substrate groups <NUM> via the electrical connection parts <NUM> of the flexible wiring substrates <NUM> in two substrate groups <NUM> arranged adjacent to each other in the X direction. Each electrical wiring substrate <NUM> is equipped with the electrical connection terminals <NUM> corresponding to the respective substrate groups <NUM> to be connected to. Therefore, two electrical connection terminals <NUM> are installed on the electrical wiring substrates <NUM>. Specifically, in the electrical wiring substrates <NUM>, the electrical connection terminals 1310a corresponding to one substrate group <NUM> are installed in the Y direction, and the electrical connection terminals 1310b corresponding to the other substrate group <NUM> are installed in the +Z direction.

Regarding the two side surfaces parallel to the XZ plane in the cover member <NUM>, the openings 1206a are installed at the upper parts thereof. Further, the two openings 1206b are installed on the upper surface of the cover member <NUM>. Further, if the substrate part <NUM> and the flow path part <NUM> are accommodated in the cover member <NUM>, the electrical connection terminals 1310a are exposed to the outside through the openings 1206a, and the electrical connection terminals 1310b are exposed to the outside through the openings 1206b (see <FIG>). The wiring connected to the control part of the printing apparatus <NUM> is connected to the electrical connection terminals <NUM>. Accordingly, ejection drive signals output from the control part and the electric power necessary for ejection are input from the electrical connection terminals <NUM> and supplied to the print element substrates <NUM> of the respective substrate groups <NUM>.

With the wiring consolidated by the electric circuit on the electrical wiring substrates <NUM>, the number of terminals in the electrical connection terminals <NUM> can be reduced compared to the number of terminals in the print element substrates <NUM>. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the number of electrical connection parts that need to be removed at the time of replacing the print head <NUM> in the printing apparatus <NUM>. Further, in the substrate groups <NUM>, the print element substrates <NUM> and parts of the flexible wiring substrates <NUM> are supported by the print element substrate support members <NUM>. If the substrate part <NUM> and the flow path part <NUM> are accommodated in the cover member <NUM>, the print element substrate support members <NUM> are supported by the support member <NUM> and positioned on the lower surface of the print head <NUM>. The print element substrate support members <NUM> are supported so that the print element substrates <NUM> are exposed from the bottom surface of the print head <NUM>.

The flow path part <NUM> is equipped with the four flow path groups <NUM> to which the first flow path members <NUM>, the second flow path members <NUM>, and the third flow path members <NUM> are fluidly connected. The flow path groups <NUM> are connected to the substrate groups <NUM>, respectively, and the print element substrates <NUM> and the first flow path members <NUM> are fluidly connected. Further, the flow path part <NUM> is equipped with two sets of the fourth flow path members <NUM> and the fifth flow path members <NUM>. The fourth flow path members <NUM> and the fifth flow path members <NUM> are connected to each other as flow paths and are connected to two flow path groups <NUM> adjacent to each other in the X direction. Therefore, in the fourth flow path members <NUM> and the fifth flow path members <NUM>, flow paths that supply ink to the above-described two flow path groups <NUM> and flow paths that collect ink from the flow path groups <NUM> are formed. Further, the fourth flow path members <NUM> are connected to the third flow path members <NUM> in the corresponding flow path groups <NUM> via the seal members <NUM> (see <FIG>).

In the flow path part <NUM>, the sixth flow path member <NUM> and the seventh flow path member <NUM> are fluidly connected to the two fifth flow path members <NUM>, which are positioned adjacent in the Y direction and fluidly connected to the fourth flow path members <NUM>. Specifically, the sixth flow path member <NUM> is fluidly connected to the two fifth flow path members <NUM> via the seal members <NUM>, and the seventh flow path member <NUM> is fluidly connected to the sixth flow path member <NUM>.

The flow path part <NUM> is equipped with the liquid supply unit <NUM>. The liquid supply unit <NUM> is fluidly connected to the seventh flow path member <NUM>. In the liquid supply unit <NUM>, the two pairs of flow path connection parts <NUM> are installed on the upper surface thereof. A filter (not illustrated in the drawings) for removing foreign substances in the flowing ink is installed inside the liquid supply unit <NUM> so as to communicate with the respective openings of the flow path connection parts <NUM>. The flow path connection parts <NUM> are connected to the ink supply system of the printing apparatus <NUM>. Specifically, the flow path connection parts <NUM> installed in the liquid supply unit <NUM> are equipped with the flow path connection parts 324a for supplying ink into the liquid supply unit <NUM> and the flow path connection parts 324b for collecting ink from the liquid supply unit <NUM>. One of the two pairs of flow path connection parts <NUM> installed in the liquid supply unit <NUM> supply and collect ink to and from the two flow path groups <NUM> positioned upstream in the +Y direction. Further, the other one of the two pairs of flow path connection parts <NUM> supply and collect ink to and from the two flow path groups <NUM> positioned downstream in the +Y direction.

As described above, the flow path of the flow path part <NUM> is fluidly connected to the flow paths of the four print element substrates <NUM>. Therefore, the present embodiment is configured so that the ink circulates in the ink flow path system, which includes the flow path of the printing apparatus <NUM> and the flow path of the print head <NUM>. The inks supplied to the liquid supply unit <NUM> pass through the seventh flow path member <NUM>, the sixth flow path member <NUM>, the fifth flow path members <NUM>, and the fourth flow path members <NUM> to flow into the flow path groups <NUM> and be supplied to the print element substrates <NUM> via the flow path groups <NUM>. Further, the inks supplied to the print element substrates <NUM> pass through the flow path groups <NUM>, the fourth flow path members <NUM>, the fifth flow path members <NUM>, the sixth flow path member <NUM>, and the seventh flow path member <NUM> to be collected from the print element substrates <NUM> to the liquid supply unit <NUM>.

In the print head <NUM>, the electrical wiring substrate support part <NUM> is installed so as to surround the outer periphery of the liquid supply unit <NUM>. If the substrate part <NUM> and the flow path part <NUM> are connected to each other, the electrical wiring substrates <NUM> are supported by the electrical wiring substrate support part <NUM>. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the substrate group <NUM> and the flow path group <NUM> form the ejection modules <NUM> (see <FIG>). That is, the print head <NUM> is equipped with the four ejection modules <NUM>. Note that, since the configuration of the ejection modules <NUM> is the same as the ejection module <NUM> explained in the above-described first embodiment, a detailed explanation thereof is omitted in the present embodiment.

Next, an explanation is given of adjoining of the ejection modules <NUM> in the print head <NUM>. In the print head <NUM>, while the substrate part <NUM> and the flow path part <NUM> are accommodated in the cover member <NUM> in a state of being connected to each other, the ejection modules <NUM> are supported by the support member <NUM>. Note that the cover member <NUM> is adhered to the support member <NUM> with an adhesive agent or the like, for example. <FIG> is a diagram viewed in the XV arrow of <FIG>, and <FIG> is a cross-sectional diagram of the XVI-XVI line of <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional diagram of the XVII-XVII line of <FIG>.

In the ejection modules <NUM>, the flexible wiring substrates <NUM> are bent toward the side surfaces parallel to the XZ plane of the first flow path members <NUM>, the second flow path members <NUM>, and the third flow path members <NUM> and supported by the support member <NUM> (see <FIG>). The support member <NUM> that supports the four ejection modules <NUM> is equipped with the four openings 205a penetrating in the Z direction (see <FIG>). Since the configuration of the openings 205a is explained in the above-described first embodiment, a detailed explanation thereof is omitted.

For supporting the ejection modules <NUM> with the support member <NUM>, the ejection modules <NUM> are inserted into the respective openings 205a of the support member <NUM> from the upstream side in the +Z direction. If the ejection modules <NUM> are inserted into the openings 205a, the second flow path members <NUM> and the third flow path members <NUM> pass through the lower openings 205a-<NUM> and are inserted into the upper openings 205a-<NUM>. On the other hand, the first flow path members <NUM> are inserted into the lower openings 205a-<NUM> but cannot be inserted into the upper openings 205a-<NUM> because the convex parts <NUM> and the wall surfaces <NUM> make contact with each other.

Then, registration of the respective ejection modules <NUM> and the support member <NUM> is performed so that the second flow path members <NUM> do not abut on the inner walls of the upper openings 205a-<NUM> and the first flow path members <NUM> do not abut on the inner walls of the lower openings 205a-<NUM>. Here, the first flow path members <NUM> and the second flow path members <NUM> are arranged to face the support member <NUM> with a space therebetween. Specifically, a space is formed between the second flow path members <NUM> and the upper openings 205a-<NUM>, and the second flow path members <NUM> and the upper openings 205a-<NUM> are arranged to face each other. Further, a space is formed between the first flow path members <NUM> and the lower openings 205a-<NUM>, and the first flow path members <NUM> and the lower openings 205a-<NUM> are arranged to face each other. Note that the members such as the openings 205a, the first flow path members <NUM>, and the second flow path members <NUM> are designed so that these spaces are large enough to accept thermal expansion of the first flow path members <NUM> and the second flow path members <NUM>. That is, each member is designed so that, even if thermal expansion occurs in the first flow path members <NUM> and the second flow path members <NUM>, these flow path members do not abut on the lower openings 205a-<NUM> and the upper openings 205a-<NUM> or, even if they do, they do not deform the support member <NUM>.

Further, if the registration of the respective ejection modules <NUM> and the support member <NUM> is performed, the convex parts <NUM> and the wall surfaces <NUM> abut on each other, and thus these members are adhered with an adhesive agent, so that thereby the ejection modules <NUM> are fixed and supported by the support member <NUM>. As described above, in the present embodiment, the ejection modules <NUM> are supported by the support member <NUM> in a state where the convex parts <NUM> of the first flow path members <NUM> and the wall surfaces <NUM> of the support member <NUM> abut on each other in the inserting direction of the respective ejection modules <NUM>. Furthermore, if the registration of the ejection modules <NUM> and the support member <NUM> is performed, the print element substrate support members <NUM> are supported by the bottom surface 1205b of the support member <NUM>.

The ejection modules <NUM> supported by the support member <NUM> in this manner are fluidly connected to the fourth flow path members <NUM> via the seal members <NUM>. Further, onto the fourth flow path members <NUM>, the fifth flow path members <NUM> are fluidly connected, and the sixth flow path member <NUM> is fluidly connected via the seal members <NUM>. Furthermore, the seventh flow path member <NUM>, the liquid supply unit <NUM>, etc., are fluidly connected. Further, the print head <NUM> is assembled by attaching the electrical wiring substrate support part <NUM>, etc..

As explained above, the present embodiment is configured so that the four ejection modules <NUM> are inserted into the support member <NUM> for engagement to be supported. Here, the first flow path members <NUM> and the second flow path members <NUM> are arranged to face the support member <NUM> with a space therebetween in a direction intersecting the inserting direction of the ejection modules <NUM>. Note that the space has a size that can accept thermal expansion of the first flow path members <NUM> and the second flow path members <NUM>. Further, in the inserting direction, the first flow path members <NUM> are configured to abut on the wall surfaces <NUM> of the support member <NUM> to be supported. Thus, the printing apparatus <NUM> according to the present embodiment also has the same functional effects as those of the first embodiment.

Note that the above-described embodiments may be modified as shown in the following (<NUM>) through (<NUM>).

(<NUM>) Although not specifically described in the embodiments above, it is preferable that the adhesive agent for adhering the convex parts <NUM> and the wall surfaces <NUM> to each other is an adhesive agent that does not easily transmit heat, i.e., that has low thermal conductivity. Accordingly, the heat in the first flow path member <NUM> is suppressed from being transmitted to the support member <NUM> via the convex parts <NUM>, and thus deformation caused by thermal expansion of the support member <NUM> due to heat transmitted to the support member <NUM> is suppressed. Further, it is also possible that the adhesive agent for adhering the convex parts <NUM> and the wall surfaces <NUM> has lower thermal conductivity than the first flow path member <NUM>.

Further, it is preferable that the support member <NUM> is configured of a material whose thermal conductivity and linear expansion coefficient are both low, for example. Accordingly, deformation caused by thermal expansion of the support member <NUM> is reduced even if the heat is transmitted to the support member <NUM> via the convex parts <NUM> and the adhesive agent.

(<NUM>) Although not specifically described in the embodiments above, it is also possible that the convex parts <NUM> are made of a material capable of absorbing thermal expansion occurring in the first flow path member <NUM>, such as an elastic material. Alternatively, as the adhesive agent for adhering the convex parts <NUM> and the wall surfaces <NUM>, it is also possible to use an adhesive agent with properties capable of absorbing displacement of the convex parts <NUM> due to thermal expansion of the first flow path member <NUM>, such as elasticity or expansion and contraction properties. Further, in the embodiments above, although the convex parts <NUM> are formed so as not to make contact with the second flow path member <NUM> adhered to the first flow path member <NUM> in the predetermined regions formed at both ends of the first flow path member <NUM> in the X direction, there is not a limitation as such. That is, it is also possible that the convex parts <NUM> are formed so as to make contact with the second flow path member <NUM> adhered to the first flow path member <NUM> in the predetermined regions. In this case, it is preferable that the convex parts <NUM> are formed of a material with low thermal conductivity and a low linear expansion coefficient.

(<NUM>) In the embodiments above, although the convex parts <NUM> are installed at both ends of the first flow path member <NUM> in the X direction and the supporting is performed by the wall surfaces <NUM> of the support members <NUM> and <NUM> via the convex parts <NUM>, there is not a limitation as such. That is, it is also possible that both ends of the first flow path member <NUM> in the X direction are directly supported by the wall surfaces <NUM>. Alternatively, it is also possible that the abutment parts are formed so as to be flat without forming a step with the surface of the first flow path member <NUM> connected to the second flow path member <NUM> at both ends of the first flow path member <NUM> in the X direction. In this case, the abutment parts may be formed of an elastic material or the like as described in (<NUM>) above or may be formed of a material with low thermal conductivity and a low linear expansion coefficient as described in (<NUM>) above.

(<NUM>) In the embodiments above, although the size of the first flow path member <NUM> is set to be larger than the second flow path member <NUM> only in the X direction and to be almost the same in the Y direction since thermal expansion in the X direction, i.e., the longitudinal direction of the print element substrate <NUM>, is of particular concern, there is not a limitation as such. For example, in a case where thermal expansion in the Y direction is also of concern as thermal expansion in the X direction, the size of the first flow path member <NUM> is set to be larger than the second flow path member <NUM> in the X direction and Y direction. Further, the convex parts <NUM> are installed at both ends in the X direction and both ends in the Y direction formed in the first flow path member <NUM> to which the second flow path member <NUM> is connected, and the wall surfaces <NUM> of the opening 205a are formed as planes with a width in the Y direction. Further, for the registration of the ejection module <NUM> to the support member <NUM>, the convex parts <NUM> and the wall surfaces <NUM> which face each other in the X direction are abutted and adhered on each other, and the convex parts <NUM> and the wall surfaces <NUM> which face each other in the Y direction are abutted and adhered on each other.

(<NUM>) The above-described embodiments and various forms shown in (<NUM>) through (<NUM>) may be combined as appropriate.

Claim 1:
A liquid ejection head comprising:
a module (<NUM>) equipped with a substrate (<NUM>) capable of ejecting a liquid by driving an ejection energy generation element and a flow path part (<NUM>) that is fluidly connected to the substrate;
a support member (<NUM>) configured to support the substrate; and
a frame (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to support the module that is inserted and engaged, and to support the support member at an insertion surface (205b) of the module,
wherein, if the module is inserted and engaged with the frame, the frame and the flow path part face each other via a space in a direction (X, Y) intersecting an inserting direction (Z) of the module and abut on each other in the inserting direction so as to be supported;
characterized in that
the flow path part is configured with a plurality of members (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) connected in the inserting direction, and
an abutment part (<NUM>) of the flow path part that abuts on the frame is formed on a member (<NUM>) positioned upstream in the inserting direction.