| 摘要 |
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily detect a residual quantity of liquid in a liquid cartridge by using an optical sensor, regardless of whether it is a liquid through which the light hardly pass. SOLUTION: A member 915 to be detected, and a float member 916 fixed to the member 915 are set in the liquid cartridge 910. When the liquid in the liquid cartridge 910 decreases to approach the float member 916, the float member 916 moves in a direction Q1. When the member 915 moves in operative association with the movement of the float member 916, a light shielding part 962 passes through a detecting position 942. The residual quantity of the liquid is grasped by detecting passing of the light shielding part 962 with the use of the optical sensor. On the other had, the detecting position 942 is adjusted to be located above a liquid level when the liquid is the maximum amount. Accordingly, the light from the optical sensor is prohibited from passing through the liquid, therefore, the residual quantity of the liquid is easily detected even in the case of the liquid through which the light hardly pass. COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT |
