EP3112169A1 - Device to assist in the maintenance of a hydraulic circuit - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for assisting the cleaning of the fluid circuit of an inkjet printer, comprising: a support (80) defining, between a front face (80c) of access and a rear face (80d), a free volume (80a), substantially parallelepipedic, means (88) for fastening the support, means forming two fluidic connections, the means (88) for hooking the support and the means forming two fluidic connections being arranged on or against the rear face, on the opposite side to said free volume (80a).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD AND PRIOR ART

The invention relates to the field of printers, in particular of the ink jet type, for example of the continuous type (CIJ).

It also relates to the architecture (the arrangement of the ink circuit) of such a printer, in particular to prevent situations in which certain channels borrowed by the ink can be plugged during use.

Continuous inkjet (CIJ) printers are well known in the field of coding and industrial marking of various products, for example to mark barcodes, the expiry date on food products, or references or distance marks on the cables or pipes directly on the production line and at high speed. This type of printer is also found in some areas of decoration where the graphic printing capabilities of the technology are exploited.

These printers have several standard subsets as shown in figure 1 .

First, a print head 1, generally remote from the body of the printer 3, is connected thereto by a flexible umbilicus 19 gathering the hydraulic and electrical connections necessary for the operation of the head by giving it flexibility that facilitates integration on the production line.

• un circuit d'encre dans la partie basse du pupitre (zone 4'), qui permet d'une part, de fournir de l'encre à la tête à une pression stable et d'une qualité adéquate, et d'autre part de prendre en charge l'encre des jets non utilisée pour l'impression,
• un contrôleur situé dans le haut du pupitre (zone 5'), capable de gérer les séquencements d'actions et de réaliser les traitements permettant l'activation des différentes fonctions du circuit d'encre et de la tête.
• une interface 6 qui donne à l'opérateur le moyen de mettre l'imprimante en oeuvre et d'être informé sur son fonctionnement.

The body of the printer 3 (also called desk or cabinet) usually contains three subsets:

• an ink circuit in the lower part of the console (zone 4 '), which allows, on the one hand, to supply ink to the head at a stable pressure of adequate quality, and on the other hand to support jets ink not used for printing,
• a controller located at the top of the console (zone 5 '), capable of managing the sequencing of actions and performing the processing for activating the various functions of the ink circuit and the head.
• an interface 6 which gives the operator the means to implement the printer and to be informed about its operation.

In other words, the cabinet has 2 sub-assemblies: in the upper part, the electronics, the power supply and the operator interface, and in the lower part an ink circuit supplying the ink, of nominal quality, under pressure at head and vacuum recovery of ink not used by the head.

The figure 2 schematically represents a print head 1 of an ICJ printer. It comprises a drop generator 60 supplied with electrically conductive ink pressurized by the ink circuit (in the zone 4 ').

This generator is capable of emitting at least one continuous jet through a small orifice called a nozzle. The jet is transformed into a regular succession of drops of identical size under the action of a periodic stimulation system (not shown) located upstream of the outlet of the nozzle. When the drops 7 are not intended for printing, they go to a gutter 62 which recovers them in order to recycle the unused ink and send them back into the ink circuit 4.

Devices 61 placed along the jet (charge and deflection electrodes) make it possible, on command, to electrically charge the drops and to deflect them in an electric field Ed. These are then deviated from their natural trajectory of ejection of the generator of drops. The drops 9 intended for printing escape the gutter and will be deposited on the print medium 8.

This description can be applied to so-called continuous jet (CIJ) printers or multi-deflected continuous jet. The binary CIJ printers are equipped with a head whose drop generator has a multitude of jets, each drop of a jet can be oriented only to 2 paths: printing or recovery. In multi-deflected continuous jet printers, each drop of a single jet (or a few spaced jets) can be deflected on different paths corresponding to different charge commands from one drop to another, thus performing a scan from the zone to to print in a direction which is the direction of deflection, the other scanning direction of the area to be printed is covered by relative movement of the print head and the print medium 8. Generally the elements are arranged such that these 2 directions are substantially perpendicular.

An ink circuit of a continuous inkjet printer first makes it possible to supply ink under controlled pressure, and possibly solvent, to the drop generator of the head 1 and to create a depression to recover the unused fluids for back printing of the head.

It also allows the management of consumables (dispensing of ink and solvent from a reserve) and the control and maintenance of ink quality (viscosity / concentration).

Finally, other functions are related to the comfort of the user and the automatic support of certain maintenance operations to ensure the same operation regardless of the conditions of use. These functions include solvent rinsing of the head (drop generator, nozzle, gutter), assistance with preventive maintenance such as the replacement of components with limited lifespan (filters, pumps).

These different functions have very different purposes and technical requirements. They are activated and sequenced by the controller of the printer which will be all the more complex as the number and sophistication of the functions will be great.

As regards the inks used, those containing pigments, for example titanium oxide (rutile TiO ₂ or anatase), in the form of sub-micron-sized particles, are particularly interesting for their whiteness and opacity. They are called pigment inks and are used for marking and identifying black or dark media.

But the dense particles of pigments have a natural tendency to sediment, especially in the ink supply ducts, when the ink is at rest. The consequences of this sedimentation may be the formation, in these conduits, of solid plugs which can block them, in part or even completely. In addition, during the necessary maintenance operations, venting of the connectivity, in the presence of ink, can form dry ink plugs. The same problem also relates to the cannula for connecting ink cartridges to the ink circuit: the ink is supplied to the circuit from a cartridge, consumable element that the user replaces when empty. The connection to the ink circuit is made by a cannula which fits into a suitable opening of the cartridge and which is also a zone of sedimentation of the ink and formation of solid plugs.

This can result, in particular, ink supply difficulties as well as a loss of opacity of the markings.

In general, therefore, techniques have been developed for cleaning or rinsing all or part of the circuit.

One technique uses the cartridges usually used. The ink cartridge is empty, depressurized. It can then be filled with a fluid, the solvent that comes from the solvent cartridge, after it has rinsed part of the circuit. However, the capacity of an ink cartridge or solvent is limited to less than one liter. A complete emptying of the printer, whose total volume, including the tank (s) and ducts, is greater than 1 l, is not possible. It is even less possible to rinse for which the volume of waste required comprises the volume of rinse solvent. Finally, during a rinsing operation, it may be necessary to change the solvent cartridge, an intervention is then necessary during these rinsing operations themselves.

Another technique uses 2 solvent cartridges, of the type usually used for printing. But, one of the solvent cartridges must be connected to the usual connection means of an ink cartridge, which requires the use of a specific adapter. In addition, there is the problem of the limited volume, already mentioned above, which may require manual intervention during cleaning.

According to another technique, cartridges are not used, but the solvent and ink tanks are emptied directly and solvent is added manually to one of these two reservoirs. The printer then controls the cleaning operations, but the manual intervention mentioned above requires that the operator or in contact with the fluids handled, which results in the use of protective means of the face and hands.

Another technique uses a set of specific means, including in particular a pump (or a solenoid valve) and a recovery can, arranged for example at ground level, and a can of rinsing liquid, the assembly being connected to the printer using a specific hydraulic circuit and specific electrical connection means. This technique is cumbersome to implement because it requires specific connections and a modification of the hydraulic circuit.

There is therefore the problem of finding a new method, and a new device, for performing a complete cleaning of an ICJ type printing machine, minimizing the modifications to be made to the printing circuit usually used during the printing phases. 'impression. It seeks to use the hydraulic circuit and the hydraulic connections of such a printer, usually used in printing operations, carried out using solvent cartridges and ink.

Preferably, such a method, and such a device, can minimize the intervention of an operator during the operations of preparation of a cleaning, or during the cleaning itself.

STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

• un support définissant, entre une face avant d'accès et une face arrière, un volume, dit volume libre ou volume d'accueil, sensiblement parallélépipédique;
• des moyens d'accrochage du support ;
• des moyens formant 2 connexions fluidiques, les moyens d'accrochage du support et les moyens formant 2 connexions fluidiques, étant disposés sur ou contre la face arrière, du côté opposé audit volume libre.

The invention firstly relates to a device for assisting the cleaning or cleaning of the fluid circuit of an ink jet printer, comprising:

• a support defining, between an access front face and a rear face, a volume, said free volume or reception volume, substantially parallelepipedic;
• means for fastening the support;
• means forming 2 fluidic connections, the hooking means of the support and the means forming 2 fluidic connections being disposed on or against the rear face, on the opposite side to said free volume.

The support and the volume of reception can receive a first container, or can and a second container, or can, cleaning.

The home volume is between, and limited by, the front and the back. The support comprises front means which form or define the front face, and rear means which form or define the rear face and face the front means.

The hooking means of the support makes it possible to position and hold the support hooked or suspended in a cartridge compartment of an ink jet printer. This maintenance is provided by the cooperation of the attachment means with corresponding means of said compartment, for example means in the form of notch or notch or groove or one or more orifice (s) or hole (s). The attachment means comprise for example one or more axis (s) or one or more tab (s) or one or more claw (s) or one or more hook (s).

The fluidic connection means make it possible to connect containers or cans, positioned in the reception volume, to the solvent supply system or circuit and to the ink supply system or circuit of an inkjet printer. preferably at the entrance of these systems or circuits. Thus, it is possible to use the solvent supply circuit of an inkjet printer to pump clean solvent into the first cleaning can, and send it into the ink circuit of the printer. to clean it; and it is possible to use the ink supply circuit of the same ink jet printer to recover contaminated solvent, after the clean solvent has cleaned, and send it to the second cleaning can.

The fluidic connection means and / or the attachment means of the support are preferably positioned against the rear face of the reception volume, this rear face then being disposed between the reception volume and the fluidic connection means and / or the attachment means.

• un support définissant, entre une face avant d'accès et une face arrière, un volume d'accueil pour des récipients;
• des moyens d'accrochage du support ;
• des moyens de connexion fluidique de chacun des récipients au système d'alimentation en solvant et en encre d'une imprimante à jet d'encre.

The invention therefore also relates to a device for assisting the cleaning or cleaning of the fluid circuit of an ink jet printer, in particular of the above type, comprising:

• a support defining, between an access front face and a rear face, a reception volume for containers;
• means for fastening the support;
• means for fluidically connecting each of the containers to the solvent and ink supply system of an ink jet printer.

Again, the support and the volume of reception can receive a first container, or can and a second container, or can, cleaning.

The home volume is between, and limited by, the front and the back. The support comprises front means which form or define the front face, and rear means which form or define the rear face and face the front means. The hooking means of the support make it possible to position the support, and to keep it hooked or suspended, in a cartridge compartment of an ink jet printer. This maintenance is provided by the cooperation of the attachment means with corresponding means of said compartment, for example means in the form of notch or notch or groove or one or more orifice (s) or hole (s). The attachment means comprise for example one or more axis (s) or one or more tab (s) or one or more claw (s) or one or more hook (s) .The fluidic connection means can connect containers , or cans, positioned in the receiving volume, the solvent supply system or circuit, and the ink supply system or circuit of an inkjet printer, preferably at the input of these systems or circuits. Thus, it is possible to use the solvent supply circuit of an inkjet printer to pump clean solvent into the first cleaning can, and send it into the ink circuit of the printer. to clean it; and it is possible to use the ink supply circuit of the same ink jet printer to recover contaminated solvent, after the clean solvent has cleaned, and send it to the second cleaning can.

The fluidic connection means and / or the attachment means of the support are preferably positioned against the rear face of the reception volume, this rear face then being disposed between the reception volume and the fluidic connection means and / or the attachment means.

During the preparation of a cleaning operation, cans or containers are positioned in the reception volume provided for this purpose with a device according to the invention. The holder is hooked into the compartment usually used to receive solvent and ink cartridges from the printer. The fluidic connection means make it possible to connect the cans or containers to the usual fluid circuits of the printer.

Caps may be provided, each plug having fluid connection tips or connectors. Preferably, such tips for connecting cans to the solvent supply system or ink of an ink jet printer and optionally containers therebetween. Thus, the cap for a 1 ^st container allows, by a nozzle or connection, to connect this 1 ^st container to the solvent supply system. Another tip or connection allows to connect to the ^2nd container. This ^2nd container has an end piece or coupling for connecting the ^2nd container to the hydraulic circuit for supplying ink to the printer.

The support may further comprise means defining lateral faces of the free volume, perpendicular to said front face. For example it comprises at least 2 portions of side plates. These side faces can be used to block the containers positioned in said free volume, in particular containers emptying position on the support, or to prevent their movement, in at least one 1 ^st direction.

The support may comprise a base, or means forming or defining a base, perpendicular to the front face, in particular to support a first container and a second container; we just put one or more container (s) on this base. If the support comprises means defining side faces, perpendicular to the front face and said base, they allow to block the containers in position on the support, preventing at least one lateral movement in a plane parallel to said base.

A device according to the invention (this expression is used, here and in the rest of the text, as synonymous with "as described above and / or in the present application") may further comprise means defining one or more edge (s) or rim (s) of said front face, extending parallel to, or along, it. The so-called edges can prevent movement, following at least a ^2nd direction parallel to the base plane and perpendicular to the one direction of ^AD. The so-called edges can be used to define or delimit the front face of the free volume, or the volume of reception.

A device according to the invention may further comprise means defining or separating 2 compartments of the free volume. These means may comprise a tab or a central plate portion. They can be arranged between two container receiving areas, and prevent at least one lateral movement in a plane parallel to said base. These means may comprise at least one flange extending along said front face.

A device according to the invention may comprise at least one rear plate portion, defining said rear face; this plate can be arranged substantially perpendicularly to the base plate; it can prevent at least one lateral movement, in a plane parallel to said base, of a container positioned in said free volume.

The fluidic connection means may be arranged against said rear plate portion or, more generally, against the means forming or defining a rear face.

A device according to the invention may further comprise at least one flange, substantially perpendicular to said rear face, or to said rear plate, provided with attachment means of the support.

The media hooking means may include an axis for device rotation when positioned in an ink cartridge and solvent cartridge compartment of an ink jet printer. Other embodiments of the hooking means have been given above.

A device according to the invention may further comprise at least one window in the rear face of the device. This window allows a reading of a tag of one of the containers used in the support.

• une tête d'impression:
• un circuit d'alimentation de la tête d'impression en encre et en solvant,
• un dispositif d'assistance au nettoyage selon l'invention, tel que décrit ci-dessus et/ou dans la présente demande.

The invention also relates to an ink jet printer comprising:

• a print head:
• a supply circuit of the ink and solvent print head,
• a cleaning assistance device according to the invention, as described above and / or in the present application.

• l'enlèvement des cartouches ;
• le positionnement dans ledit compartiment de cartouches, d'un dispositif selon l'invention, tel que décrit ci-dessus et/ou dans la présente demande, muni, dans ledit volume, d'un 1^er récipient, contenant du solvant, et d'un 2^ème récipient, et le raccordement, à l'aide des moyens formant connexions fluidiques, du 1^er récipient au système d'alimentation en solvant et du 2^ème récipient au système d'alimentation en encre de l'imprimante;
• l'envoi du solvant du 1^er récipient dans au moins une partie du circuit fluidique de l'imprimante, et la récupération de ce solvant, après circulation dans ladite au moins une partie du circuit, dans le 2^ème récipient.

The invention also relates to a method for cleaning an ink jet printer, comprising a fluid circuit fed by an ink cartridge and a solvent cartridge, arranged in a cartridge compartment of the printer, which method comprises :

• the removal of the cartridges;
• positioning in said cartridge compartment, a device according to the invention, as described above and / or in the present application, provided, in said volume, a ^1st container, containing solvent, and a ^2nd container and the connection, using means fluidic connections, the container ¹ to the solvent supply system and the ^2nd container supply system printer ink;
• the transmission of the solvent in container ¹ at least a portion of the fluid circuit of the printer, and recovering this solvent after passing through said at least one part of the circuit, in the ^2nd vessel.

In such a process, the solvent of the first container can be sent into at least a portion of the fluid circuit of the printer using a solvent transfer pump of this circuit.

A mixture of solvent and ink, after cleaning the fluid circuit of the printer, can be sent to the second container by means of a pump, for example an ink transfer pump of this circuit.

After cleaning of the fluid circuit of the printer, the ^2nd container can be removed from the holder and then be replaced by the ^1st receptacle.

During cleaning of the fluid circuit of the printer, part of the liquid of the ^2nd container can be sent to the container ^1.

The container ¹ may contain an initial solvent volume at least greater than the maximum volume of solvent contained in the solvent cartridge. The ^2nd container may have a volume at least greater than the initial volume of solvent contained in the container ^1.

• l'enlèvement des cartouches ;
• le remplacement de la cartouche de solvant par un 1^er récipient, contenant un volume initial de solvant au moins strictement supérieur au volume maximum de solvant contenu dans la cartouche de solvant;
• le remplacement de la cartouche d'encre par un 2^ème récipient, ayant un volume au moins strictement supérieur au volume initial de solvant contenu dans le 1^er récipient et au volume maximum d'encre contenu dans la cartouche d'encre;
• l'envoi du solvant du 1^er récipient, dans au moins une partie du circuit fluidique de l'imprimante, et la récupération de ce solvant, après circulation dans ladite au moins une partie du circuit, dans le 2^ème récipient.

The invention also relates to a method for cleaning an inkjet printer, comprising a fluid circuit fed by an ink cartridge and a solvent cartridge, said method comprising:

• the removal of the cartridges;
• replacing the solvent cartridge with a container ^1, containing an initial volume of solvent at least strictly greater than the maximum volume of solvent contained in the solvent cartridge;
• replacing the ink cartridge with a ^2nd container having a volume at least strictly greater than the initial volume of solvent contained in the container ¹ and the maximum volume of ink contained in the ink cartridge;
• the transmission of the solvent of the ^1st receptacle, in at least a portion of the fluid circuit of the printer, and recovering this solvent after passing through said at least one part of the circuit, in the ^2nd vessel.

The ink jet printer may be an ink jet printer according to the invention, particularly as described above and / or in the present application.

¹ container and the ^2nd container can be arranged in a device for assisting in cleaning the fluid circuit according to the invention, particularly as described above and / or herein.

In such a process, the solvent of the first container can be sent into at least a portion of the fluid circuit of the printer using a solvent transfer pump of this circuit.

A mixture of solvent and ink, after cleaning the fluid circuit of the printer, can be sent to the second container by means of a pump, for example an ink transfer pump of this circuit.

¹ container and the ^2nd container can be connected, using means fluidic connection of the latter, the solvent supply system and the ink supply system of the printer.

Thus, it is possible to use the solvent supply circuit of an inkjet printer to pump clean solvent into the first cleaning can, and send it into the ink circuit of the printer. to clean it; and it is possible to use the ink supply circuit of the same ink jet printer to recover contaminated solvent, after the clean solvent has cleaned, and send it to the second cleaning can. In other words, the contaminated solvent circulates in the ink supply circuit in the opposite direction to the direction in which the ink flows when it is sent to the printer circuits, in particular the main tank and / or the head of the printer. 'impression.

After cleaning of the fluid circuit of the printer, the ^2nd container can be removed and be replaced by the ^1st receptacle.

During cleaning of the fluid circuit of the printer, part of the liquid of the ^2nd container can be sent to the container ^1.

The container ¹ may contain an initial solvent volume at least greater than the maximum volume of solvent contained in the solvent cartridge. The ^2nd container may have a volume at least greater than the initial volume of solvent contained in the container ^1.

• une base cylindrique,
• une portion de raccordement dans une partie supérieure, qui comporte au moins 2 embouts de raccordement, ainsi que, éventuellement, au moins une ouverture, par exemple pour mise à la pression atmosphérique (cette ouverture, lorsqu'elle est présente, peut être obturée par un obturateur);
• du côté de la partie inférieure de la base, ou du côté du bouchon destiné à être tourné vers l'intérieur d'un récipient fermé par le bouchon, au moins 2 ouvertures correspondantes, qui communiquent avec lesdits embouts; et, éventuellement, une ouverture qui communique avec l'éventuelle ouverture dans la portion de raccordement.

The invention also relates, optionally in combination with a device for assisting the cleaning of the fluid circuit according to the invention, a container cap comprising:

• a cylindrical base,
• a connecting portion in an upper part, which comprises at least two connecting ends, and possibly at least one opening, for example for setting atmospheric pressure (this opening, when present, can be closed by a shutter);
• on the side of the lower part of the base, or on the side of the cap intended to be turned towards the inside of a container closed by the stopper, at least 2 corresponding openings, which communicate with said end pieces; and, optionally, an opening which communicates with the possible opening in the connecting portion.

Such a stopper can be made independently of a device for assisting the cleaning of the fluid circuit according to the invention.

In such a plug, said base can be introduced, for example by screwing, on or in the opening of a container to close it.

Two such plugs may be associated, for example to equip containers used with a device according to the invention, in particular as described above and / or in the present application. Conduits can then connect each of the plugs to the fluidic connections.

A conduit may optionally connect the plugs together, to form a discharge circuit of the overflow of one of the containers on which the plugs are mounted.

The invention therefore also relates to a set of 2 plugs, each of them being according to the invention, this assembly further comprising a conduit for connecting a connection end of one of the plugs with a connecting piece of the other plug.

The invention also relates to one (or 2) container (s) intended to contain or containing solvent or ink of an ink jet printer, which is further associated with a closure plug and a stopper according to the invention, or a closure cap and a stopper according to the invention being associated with each container; the or each closure cap may be replaced by a cap according to the invention, for example during a use as presented in the present application.

The inkjet printer implemented in a method according to the invention, in particular as described above and / or in the present application, or in which a device according to the invention, in particular as described above and / or in the present application, can be used, can be a continuous jet printer (CIJ), including binary type, or a multi-deflected continuous jet printer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

• The figure 1 represents a known printer structure,
• the figure 2 represents a known structure of a printer head of an ICJ type printer,
• the figure 3 is an example of a device according to the present invention,
• the figure 4 is a side view of a device according to the present invention,
• the Figures 5A, 5B represent other aspects of a device according to the present invention,
• the Figure 5C represents a container, or can, which can be used in combination with a device according to the present invention,
• the Figures 6A - 7B represent plugs that can be used in combination with a device according to the present invention,
• the Figures 8A, 8B and 8D represent various aspects of a compartment for the cartridges of an ICJ type printer and the Figure 8C represents a cartridge in its cartridge holder,
• the Figures 9A - 10B represent steps for carrying out an exemplary cleaning method according to the present invention,
• the figure 11 represents an example of a fluid circuit structure;
• the figure 12 represents the same fluidic circuit, used with a device according to the present invention,
• the Figures 13 - 16 are examples or aspects of parts of a fluid circuit of an ICJ type printer in which a device according to the present invention can be used.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT

An example of a device according to the invention is illustrated in Figures 3, 4 and 5A-5B .

It comprises a support 80 for accommodating two cans (or containers) 82, 84, one of solvent, the other initially empty. He is represented in figure 3 , as having a single can 84, a second can 82 is not yet installed (see Figure 9A ). In the illustrated embodiment, this support comprises a base, for example in the form of a support plate 86, substantially flat or defining a plane, said lower plane. This plate may be perforated or open, for example to leave only a frame on which the containers or containers will be able to be positioned and supported. Alternatively (not shown), the base may be defined by, or comprise, several bars or bars arranged at least partly parallel to each other or at least partly in cross or crossing or one or more grid (s), forming a support zone on which the cans or containers will be able to be positioned and supported. The means defining the base (the plate 86 in the illustrated example), can define the base of a parallelepiped, which extends to the upper part of the device, defined here by means 88 (described below). ). The support defines a volume 80a, said reception volume, substantially parallelepipedic, between, on the one hand, means forming a front face 80c and means forming a rear face 80d and, on the other hand, between the means forming the base (in the example shown: the support plate 86) and the upper part of the support.

Whatever the embodiment of the invention, the means forming the front face or defining said front face may for example comprise a flange (see description below). Alternatively (not shown), these means may comprise a front plate, which may be perforated or open, or be defined by, or comprise, several bars or bars arranged at least partly parallel to each other or at least partly in cross or crossing or these means may comprise one or more grid (s).

Whatever the embodiment of the invention, the means forming the rear face or defining this rear face may for example comprise a back plate, which may be perforated or open, or be defined by, or have, several bars or bars disposed at least partly parallel to each other or at least partly in cross or intersecting or these means may comprise one or more grid (s).

Each of the canisters 82, 84 may have a volume of between 1 l or 1.5 l and 5 l or 10 l, for example 3 l, sufficient to allow a complete emptying of the printer without having to change bottles. The total reception volume 80a may be between 2 and 20 l.

The figure 4 represents a side view of the support, the device being in a position of use. The volume 80 is delimited on the one hand by the lower plate 86, the front face 80c (which is forward relative to a user facing the device), the rear face 80d (which is back by relative to a user who faces the device) and by an upper plane 88a, parallel to the lower plate 86 and substantially in the extension of the means 88.

• 100 mm < p < 300 mm,
• Et/ou 200 mm < h < 500 mm
• Et/ou 150 mm < l < 600 mm.

We have, for example:

• 100 mm <p <300 mm,
• And / or 200 mm <h <500 mm
• And / or 150 mm <1 <600 mm.

The means 88 make it possible to maintain, during an emptying or a cleaning of all or part of the fluid circuit of the printer, this support in place in the compartment usually used to position the cartridges of solvent and ink, after the latter have been withdrawn.

In the illustrated embodiment, these means comprise at least one flange 90 (two flanges are represented in figures 4 and 5A ), substantially parallel to the support plate or to the plane that it defines. A free end of this flange may comprise or form an axis or a hinge 94 intended for, as illustrated in FIG. Figures 9E and 9F , to be inserted in openings allowing the positioning of the cartridges of solvent and ink.

According to one embodiment, these means 88 are made in the extension of a rear support plate 87, the flange 90 extending substantially perpendicular to this plate 87.

Whatever the embodiment of the invention, the attachment means of the support can take other forms, not shown here. The attachment means comprise for example one or more axis (s) or one or more tab (s) or one or more claw (s) or one or more hook (s). They make it possible to position and maintain the support hooked or suspended in a compartment of cartridges from an inkjet printer. This maintenance is provided by the cooperation of the attachment means with corresponding means of said compartment, for example means in the form of notch or notch or groove or one or more orifice (s) or hole (s).

The means 88, as well as the fluid connection elements 112, 114, which are described below, are arranged on or against the rear face 80d of the device, but on the opposite side to the compartment or the volume 80a. Thus, when using the device, it can simply apply it against the wall of the cartridge compartment of a printer, the containers or cans having been brought into this device by its front face 80c.

Means may be provided to prevent movements of the drums 82, 84, in a plane parallel to the plate 86, when they are positioned on the support. For this purpose means forming lateral faces may be provided; these are for example side plates or side plate portions 96, 98 disposed substantially perpendicular to the plate 86 or the plane that it defines. Each plate can be perforated or open. Alternatively (not shown) the means forming each of the lateral faces may for example comprise a flange or comprise several bars or bars arranged at least partly parallel to each other or at least partly in cross or intersecting, or comprise one or several grid (s).

A central beam or plate 100 may also be arranged substantially perpendicular to the plate or the plane that it defines, to separate the reception areas of the 2 cans. The plate can be perforated or open. More generally, whatever the embodiment of the invention, means for separating the reception volume into 2 reception areas may comprise a rim or have several bars or bars arranged at least partly parallel to each other or to less partly cross or crossing, or have one or more grid (s). These plates 96, 98, 100 or plate portions, lateral and / or central, can prevent movements of the drums in a ^1rst direction, parallel to the plate.

The plate portions 96, 98, 100 may have flanges 196, 198, 102, 102 'which make it possible to prevent the movement of cans in a ^2nd direction, perpendicular to the direction of 1 ^st but still parallel to the plate.

The support plate 86 may, itself, be provided with a flange 86 'which blocks the cans during a possible forward movement. The front means defining the front face then comprise this rim. The use of a simple rim 86 'makes it possible to keep the cans arranged in the support visible, and thus to be able to visually check the level of liquid they contain.

At the top of the device, the volume 80a is open to allow easy introduction, from above, cans or containers.

But it is also better to prevent movements of cans, in a plane perpendicular to the plate. For this purpose, and whatever the embodiment of the invention, means 200, 200 'locking or locking can block the containers in position on the plate. These means comprise an element, movable relative to the support, for example in the form of a bow, which is positioned above the cans after their installation on the plate 86 and which can be optionally locked or locked by means 200 ', for example a front edge which projects forwardly relative to the plane of the flange 86 '. The hoop may have a certain flexibility that allows, when closed, to bring a part in position behind the means 200 '.

According to one embodiment, this element 200 is rotatable about a hinge, preferably the same as the hinge 94. These means 200 comprise a first portion 201 and a second portion 202, intended to be positioned, respectively, above each of the cans 82, 84. These parts can also form gripping means of the entire device, when it is equipped with its cans. They are connected by a third part 203, which is positioned, when these means 200 are in the closed or locking position, substantially parallel along the bottom of the cans 82, 84 (see Figure 9D ).

In the illustrated embodiment, the set of side plates 96, 98 and central 100, the flange 90 and the locking means 200 are fixed to the rear plate 87, arranged perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly to the support plate 86.

This rear plate can be provided with at least one window (here 2 windows) 87a, 87b, which allows the reading of a "tag" which can be equipped with one and / or the other cans. It has been shown, in Figure 5C , a can 84 provided with such a "tag" (or circuit) 84a, for example made in the form of a processor or a microprocessor.

This circuit 84a is for example applied against a wall of the can, on the outside thereof. It may further comprise means of communication, for example an RFID-type interface, which will allow dialogue with the controller 3 of the printer, in particular to provide it with one or more data that can be interpreted as reflecting the presence of the printer. can and / or (in the case of the solvent can) data relating to the liquid contained therein.

For its part, the controller 3 is also provided with communication means, for example an RFID type interface, which will allow to receive the data transmitted by the tag of the cartridge.

Alternatively, the communication between the body of the printer and the tag of a can can be of contact type. In this case, contacts are provided, on the one hand on the can, and on the other hand on the printer, to ensure the transmission of data between the tag of the can and the printer. Sending an RFID signal, from the tag to the controller, or reading by the latter, the presence of tag contacts, can detect the presence of the can. This verification can be performed periodically.

Whether or not it is provided with a "tag 84", the can 84 may be provided, preferably in its upper part, with a handle 84b and a stopper 84c. The can 84 (or 82) also defines a substantially parallelepipedal volume. The can 82, which contains clean solvent at the beginning of a cleaning operation may have a volume less than that of the can 84 for recovering the contaminated solvent (or dirty), as the progress of the cleaning operations.

• d'une part une sortie du bidon de solvant 82 au circuit d'alimentation en solvant de l'imprimante,
• d'autre part une entrée du bidon 84 de récupération au circuit d'alimentation en encre de l'imprimante.

The support also comprises means 112, 112a, 114, 114a for connection to the fluid circuit of the printer. Through these means, portions of conduits 182, 184 will make it possible to connect:

• on the one hand an outlet of the solvent can 82 to the solvent supply circuit of the printer,
• on the other hand an inlet of the recovery can 84 to the ink supply circuit of the printer.

These connection means to the fluidic circuit may be made or arranged against a portion of the rear plate 87, in its lower part, close to the zone in which it is joined to the support plate 86, for example less than 1 cm or 5 cm from the plane defined by the plate 86. Each of these connection means is positioned to face the means 112c, 114c of connection to the ink circuit or solvent, when the support is positioned in the compartment of cartridges from a printer (see Figures 8A and 9E ).

For this purpose, the support may be provided with connecting means 112, 114, of substantially cylindrical shape, for receiving laterally, by means 114b of connection, arranged laterally with respect to the substantially cylindrical shape, a conduit or tube 182, 184 which is connected to one of the cans. Each of the connection means 112, 114 may be identical to the spout or nipple of a solvent cartridge 40 or ink 30.

Each of these means 112, 114 may be connected to corresponding means 112c, 114c ( figure 8A ) of connection of the solvent and ink supply circuits which are usually connected to the solvent cartridges 40 or ink cartridges 30. Or, at each of these means 112, 114, a converter element 112a, 114a can be applied which will make it possible to connect the means 112, 114 corresponding to the means 112c, 114c ( figure 8A ) of connection of the solvent and ink supply circuit which are usually connected to the cartridges of solvent 40 or ink 30. These means 112, 114, 112a, 114a will thus make it possible to use the pumping means usually used in the process. printer, for respectively pumping solvent or ink from the corresponding cartridges used in printing operations; these cartridges are removed to be replaced by the support according to the invention, with its cans 82,84, during cleaning operations.

Stoppers 85, 83, for example of the type illustrated in FIG. Figures 6A - 6B and 7A - 7B , whose cans or containers implemented according to the invention can be provided, and whatever the embodiment of the invention.

Each comprises a base, preferably circular, 831, 851, which can be introduced, for example by screwing, on or in the opening of one of the drums to close it.

The base is surmounted by a connecting portion 832, 852 in its upper part (intended to be outside or above the can when the cap is in use position thereon), which comprises at least 2 connecting pieces, or connectors, 833, 834 and 853,854, for example "fir" connections (but other forms may be envisaged), as well as, optionally, an opening 835, 855 for setting the atmospheric pressure to atmospheric pressure. inside the can (this opening 835, 855, even if it is present, can be closed or closed). Each of the couplings makes it possible to maintain or connect a conduit, which will make it possible to connect the corresponding plug, on the one hand, and the solvent or ink circuit of the printer, or the other plug, on the other hand. as explained below.

The connecting portion may be of smaller diameter or lateral dimension than that of the base, these diameter (s) or dimension (s) being measured in a plane perpendicular to an insertion axis of the cap on or in a container. The connecting portion may be positioned or may rest on an upper, possibly flat surface (as seen in FIG. Figures 6A and 7A ), from the base.

• pour le bouchon 83 : un raccord 843 (qui communique avec le raccord 833), et une ouverture 844 (qui communique avec le raccord 834) ; et, éventuellement, une ouverture 845 (qui communique avec l'ouverture 835 si celle-ci est présente ; mais cette dernière, même si elle est présente, peut être fermée ou obturée) ;
• pour le bouchon 85 : des ouvertures correspondantes 864 (qui communique avec le raccord 854), et 863 (qui communique avec le raccord 853), et éventuellement une ouverture 865 (qui communique avec l'ouverture 855 ; mais cette dernière, même si elle est présente, peut être fermée ou obturée, une éventuelle mise à la pression atmosphérique se faisant par exemple par l'autre bouchon lorsque les 2 bouchons communiquent entre eux via le conduit connecté aux raccords 854 et 833).

On the side intended to be turned towards the inside of the can, are:

• for the plug 83: a connector 843 (which communicates with the connector 833), and an opening 844 (which communicates with the connector 834); and, optionally, an opening 845 (which communicates with the opening 835 if it is present, but the latter, even if it is present, can be closed or closed);
• for the plug 85: corresponding openings 864 (which communicates with the connector 854), and 863 (which communicates with the connector 853), and optionally an opening 865 (which communicates with the opening 855; last, even if it is present, can be closed or closed, a possible setting to atmospheric pressure being done for example by the other plug when the 2 plugs communicate with each other via the conduit connected to the connectors 854 and 833).

Each connection or opening 833-834, 853-855 outside is connected to the corresponding inner fitting or the corresponding inner opening by an inner conduit to the plug or the connecting portion and not visible in the figures.

In the case of the plug 83, the connection 843 makes it possible to assemble a conduit 188 (see Figure 9B ) which will allow to find, in the lower part of the can 82, the solvent that would be at the bottom thereof.

A compartment 400 for ink cartridges 30 and solvent 40 of a CIJ type printer is shown schematically in FIG. figure 8A . Maintained against a rear wall 401 of this compartment, means 105a, 105b, 105c will allow to position and maintain the cartridges. Means 112c, 114c (for example each in the form of a cannula) make it possible to connect each cartridge to the fluid circuit of the printer. These means are arranged in the lower or lower part of the compartment 400.

An exemplary embodiment of the means 105a (the means 105b, c are identical to 105a) is represented in FIG. Figure 8B they comprise a plate-shaped part 106a (respectively 106b, c), of substantially perpendicular shape and provided with a notch or notch 107a (respectively 107b, c).

An example of an ink cartridge is illustrated in Figure 8C , inserted into its case (or cartridge holder) 330 provided with lateral pins 331, 332 in its upper part, each intended to be positioned in one of the notches 107a-c. A cartridge 40 of solvent is also intended to be inserted into its case 340 of the same type. The bottom of the rear part of each cartridge (not visible in the figures) is provided with a spout for a hydraulic connection to the ink circuit (or solvent) via the means 112c, 114c. The cartridge holder is configured to pass this nozzle for this connection. It is also configured to allow reading of a possible tag disposed against the wall of the cartridge which faces the wall 401 of the compartment 400.

The figure 8D represents 2 cartridges 30, 40, each in a cartridge holder 330, 340, in the compartment 400, the cartridge 40 being in the course of installation. The means 105a, b, c are arranged so that 2 of them are arranged on either side of each cartridge holder, the lateral pins 331 and 332 of which are inserted and rest in the notches. 107a (respectively b). The hydraulic connection spout of each cartridge communicates with ink circuit (or solvent) by the means 112c, 114c.

One use of the medium described above may be as follows.

Two cans 82, 84 are placed on the support, one containing clean solvent, the other being empty ( Figure 9A ).

The cans may be provided with plugs 83, 85, for example of the type illustrated in FIG. Figures 6A - 6B and 7A - 7B ( Figure 9B ), the plugs that close these cans when they are not used in cleaning a printer (such as the plug 84c, Figure 5C ) being removed.

The plug 85 is intended to be positioned on the initially empty container 84, which will fill during the emptying or cleaning. The opening 863, connected to the tip 853, makes it possible to evacuate any excess liquid to the outside (too full that may result from an incident), in case this can fills beyond its maximum capacity. The tip 853 is, itself, via a conduit 186, connected to the tip 833 of the cap 83, to transfer the possible overflow in the other can.

The plug 83 is intended to be positioned on the container 82 initially containing solvent, which will empty during emptying or cleaning.

When they are fixed on their respective cans, the two plugs are connected by the conduit 186 as shown in FIG. Figure 9B . As indicated above, this conduit makes it possible to bring any excess liquid of the can 84, initially empty, to the can 82 of solvent, which empties gradually during cleaning operations. Any overfilling occurs at the end of cleaning, it is therefore unlikely to mix with a significant amount of clean solvent still contained in the can 82 of solvent.

The fluidic connections to the means 112, 114 are then established. The duct 182 connects the can 82 to the means 112, for a hydraulic connection to the solvent circuit ( figures 4 , 5A ). The duct 184 connects the can 84 to the means 114, for a hydraulic connection to the ink circuit ( Figure 5A ).

The mobile hoop 200 makes it possible to block the cans 82, 84 in a vertical direction ( Figures 9C and 9D ).

The cartridges usually used are removed from compartment 400 which contains them ( figure 8D ).

The support provided with its cans connected as explained above is positioned in this compartment 400 ( Figure 9E ), its means 88 allow, in cooperation with the means 105a-c (and more specifically the axis 94 with the means 107a-c) to keep it in place during a draining or cleaning of all or part of the fluidic circuit of the printer ( figure 9F ), the 400 compartment door can be kept open if the overall size is greater than that of the cartridges. The means 112, 112a, 114, 114a are positioned against the means 112c, 114c in the same manner as the cartridges when they are in use position in the machine.

The assembly comprising the support and the drums 82, 84 can therefore be put in place in the cartridge compartment, advantageously using the means usually used to position the cartridges. There is therefore a simple exchange cartridges by the support with its 2 cans. The fluidic connections of the support are positioned in front of the accesses to the fluid circuit, usually used to connect the solvent and ink cartridges thereto. The intervention of an operator is therefore minimal.

• d'une part une sortie du bidon 82 de solvant au circuit d'alimentation en solvant de l'imprimante,
• d'autre part une entrée du bidon 84 au circuit d'alimentation en encre de l'imprimante.

The established fluidic connections make it possible to connect:

• on the one hand an outlet of the can 82 of solvent to the solvent supply circuit of the printer,
• on the other hand an inlet of the can 84 to the ink supply circuit of the printer.

For a draining or cleaning operation, the cartridges 30, 40 are removed from the compartment, and a support such as the support 80 is positioned, its fixing means cooperating with the means usually used for fixing the cartridges, its fluidic connections cooperating with the fluidic connections of the compartment, usually used to collect respectively the solvent and ink cartridges 40, 30.

The cleaning operations can then take place, solvent being sent from the can 82, in certain parts of the fluid circuit, and then recovered in the can 84. The pumping means, respectively of the solvent supply circuit and the circuit supplying ink (or pressurizing the ink for sending to a print head) are respectively used to pump solvent from the can 82 and to send the contaminated fluid, solvent mixture and ink, to the can 84.

The volume stored in the can 82 and the volume of the can 84 are sufficient to clean the entire circuit. In particular, the volume of solvent initially contained in the can 82 may be less than the total volume of the can 84; for example if the latter has a maximum capacity of 31, we can, to clean the entire circuit, fill it with only 1.5 l of solvent, which will be sufficient. On the other hand, when this same can will be used as a dirty solvent container, its maximum capacity of 3 l will be useful for the entire circuit (which also contains ink, in its hydraulic circuit and in its main tank). The volume of solvent stored in the can 82 at the beginning of a cleaning is greater than that stored in a cartridge 40 of solvent not yet used, this volume being about 600 cm ³ or 800 cm ³ in any case less than 11, while the can 82 of solvent contains, at the beginning of the cleaning operations, at least 1.5 l of solvent.

Prior to or during cleaning, the ink that remains in a tank and / or in any other part of the circuit may have been pumped and sent to the can 84, which serves as a receptacle for the waste circuit.

The cleaning operations are controlled by the controller (or control means) 3 of the entire printer. The instructions for activating the pumping means, in particular the solvent supply circuit and the circuit supply of ink, and any other hydraulic components of the printer (pumps, valves) are sent and controlled by these means 3. In particular, it is these instructions that will allow to circulate solvent, from the can 82, towards the various parts of the hydraulic or fluidic circuit of the printer and which will make it possible to send contaminated fluid from the various parts of the hydraulic or fluidic circuit of the printer to the can 84.

The control means 3 comprise for example a processor or a microprocessor, programmed to implement a cleaning or emptying process. It also stores data, for example data for measuring ink levels and / or solvent, and their possible treatment. The controller is also programmed to handle operations other than cleaning, including, after cleaning, printing operations.

When the cleaning operations are completed, the carrier can be removed from the compartment, and ink, solvent cartridges 30, 40 can be reinstalled. Can 84 then collected the soiled solvent that was used to clean the circuit elements. After unblocking the arch 200, it can be removed ( figure 10A ). If the solvent can 82 is empty, or almost, it can take the place of the can 84 ( figure 10B ) for a future cleaning operation, for which only a new can, filled with solvent, will be necessary.

An example of an architecture of the fluid circuit of a printer to which the invention can be applied is illustrated in FIG. figure 11 . References identical to those already used previously designate identical or corresponding elements. In particular, there is the flexible umbilicus 19, which brings together the hydraulic and electrical connections and the print head 1, to which the printer architecture described below can be connected.

On this figure 11 it can be seen that the fluidic circuit 4 of the printer comprises a plurality of means 10, 50, 100, 200, 300, each associated with a specific functionality.

To this circuit 4 are associated a removable ink cartridge 30 and a cartridge 40 of solvent, also removable.

The reference 10 designates the main tank, which can accommodate a mixture of solvent and ink.

Reference 100 denotes the set of means which make it possible to take and possibly store solvent from a cartridge 40 of solvent and to supply the solvent thus taken from other parts of the printer, which it this is to supply the main tank 10 with solvent, or to clean or maintain one or more of the other parts of the machine.

Reference 300 denotes the set of means for taking ink from an ink cartridge 30 and supplying the ink so taken to feed the main reservoir 10. As seen in this figure, according to the embodiment presented here, the sending, to the main tank 10 and from the means 100, of solvent passes through these same means 300.

At the outlet of the tank 10, a set of means, generally designated by the reference 200, makes it possible to pressurize the ink taken from the main tank, and send it to the print head 1. According to one embodiment, illustrated here by the arrow 25, it is also possible, by these means 200, to send ink to the means 300, then back to the reservoir 10, which allows recirculation of the ink inside. of the circuit. This circuit 200 also allows the tank to be emptied into the cartridge 30 as well as to clean the connection of the cartridge 30 (in the case of carrying out the figure 6 , by changing the position of the valve 37).

The system shown in this figure also comprises means 50 for recovering the fluids (of the ink and / or the solvent) which comes back from the printing head, more precisely from the gutter 62 of the printing head or the circuit rinsing the head. These means 50 are therefore arranged downstream of the umbilicus 19 (with respect to the direction of circulation of the fluids coming back from the print head).

As we see on the figure 11 the means 100 may also make it possible to send solvent directly to these means 50, without passing through the umbilicus 19 or by the printing head 1 or by the gutter 62 for recovery.

The means 100 may comprise at least three parallel power supplies solvent, toward the head 1, the 2 ^nd to the means 50 and the 3 ^rd to means 300.

Each of the means described above is provided with means, such as valves, preferably solenoid valves, which guide the fluid concerned to the chosen destination. Thus, from the means 100, it is possible to send solvent exclusively to the head 1, or to the means 50 or to the means 300.

The figure 12 represents the same circuit as the figure 11 , but in which we removed the cartridges 30, 40, replaced by the drums 82, 84, arranged on the support 80 (itself represented schematically). The remainder of the fluidic circuit 4 is identical to that of the figure 11 . References 83, 85, 112, 114, 112a, 114a, 112c, 114c designate the same elements as in the preceding figures.

1. a) un nettoyage ou un rinçage des moyens 50, aucun solvant n'étant pendant ce temps envoyé vers les moyens 300 ou vers la tête 1 ;
2. b) puis, éventuellement, un nettoyage ou un rinçage des moyens 300, aucun solvant n'étant pendant ce temps envoyé vers les moyens 50 ou vers la tête 1 ;
3. c) puis, éventuellement, un nettoyage ou un rinçage de la tête 1, aucun solvant n'étant pendant ce temps envoyé vers les moyens 50 ou 300.

It is then possible to perform, during cleaning or rinsing operations for example:

1. a) cleaning or rinsing the means 50, no solvent being meanwhile sent to the means 300 or to the head 1;
2. b) then, optionally, a cleaning or rinsing means 300, no solvent being meanwhile sent to the means 50 or to the head 1;
3. c) then, optionally, a cleaning or rinsing of the head 1, no solvent being meanwhile sent to the means 50 or 300.

The order of steps a), b), c) may be different from that indicated above. In all 3 cases, the solvent comes from the can 82

Alternatively, with the same means, it is possible to send solvent to all the constituent means of the ink circuit, for example for a general rinsing circuit.

Each of the means 50, 100, 200, 300 described above is provided with a pump which can handle the fluid of interest (respectively pump 1 ^st, 2 ^nd pump, pump 3 ^rd, 4 ^th pump). These different pumps provide different functions (those of their respective means) and are therefore different from each other, even if these different pumps can be of the same type or similar types (in other words: none of these pumps). provides 2 of these functions).

In particular, the means 50 comprise a pump (pump 1 ^AD) for pumping the fluid, recovered, as explained above, of the printhead, and send to the main tank 10. This pump is dedicated to the recovery of the fluid from the printhead and is physically different from the 4 ^th pump means 300 dedicated to the transfer of ink or the 3 ^rd pump means 200 dedicated to the pressurization of the ink outlet of the reservoir 10.

The means 100 comprise a pump (the ^2nd pump) which makes it possible to pump the solvent and send it to the means 50 and / or the means 300 and / or to the print head 1.

The figure 13 illustrates a more detailed representation of the means 100 which can take solvent from a can 82 and send it to the various parts of the device to perform cleaning or unclogging operations.

These means comprise a pump 41 (the 2 ^nd pump) and various means of fluid connection, each having one or more conduits or one or more valves 39, 42. One of these valves, the valve 42, allows to orient the solvent to 2 possible ways, namely the print head 1 or the ink supply circuit 300. In the latter case, when the means, which allow the entry of solvent into the means 300, are themselves closed, the solvent is directed towards the means 50. One can also find, in series with the pump, a device -pulsation 411 and a filter 412.

An intermediate tank 14 may also be provided, which may be provided with level measuring means 14 ', and which may be fed from a cartridge 40 when connected to the circuit.

This reservoir 14 sends solvent to the various means 50, 300 and / or to the print head 1 and / or the main tank 10, for cleaning or to unclog hydraulic components. Solvent can also be taken from the can 82 and be sent directly to the various elements of the circuit, to perform the same operations (cleaning or unclogging). It is through a valve 39 that the origin of the solvent is selected. In this figure, as on the others, the positions "normally open" (= NO) and "normally closed" (= NC) of each valve are also represented. Here, if the valve 39 is in the "NC" position ( figure 4 ), then the solvent is pumped from the cartridge 40, if it is in the "NO" position, then the solvent is pumped from the tank 14.

The tank 14 can be fed from the can 82, for example by a calibrated leak, or restriction, 45 disposed at its inlet. This leakage also contributes to the generation of pressure. The filling of the tank 14 can be carried out as follows: the valve 39 is in the "NC" position (see figure 13 ), which allows to pump, using the pump 41, the solvent from the can 82. The valve 42 is in the closed position (NC), while the inputs of the means 50 and 300 are prohibited to the solvent.

It is with the aid of the valve 42 and the means arranged at the inlet of the means 50, 300, for example an inlet valve for each of these means, that the solvent can be sent to these various means 50 (via the leads 335), 300, then possibly to the main tank 10, and / or to the print head 1 (via the conduit 337). Thus, at the output of the means 100, three channels in parallel can be defined which, according to the need, will make it possible to send the solvent to one and / or the other of these elements.

The means 100 may also comprise means 47 forming a pressure sensor, which make it possible to measure the pressure of the solvent at the outlet of the pump 41 and the means 411, 412. This information may be used to detect an increase in the pressure of the solvent, this can translate a clogging of one of the ducts in which the solvent circulates.

The figure 14 illustrates a more detailed representation of the means 50 for recovering fluids (ink and / or solvent) returning from the print head. 2 types of fluid can therefore be joined at the input of these means 50: ink that comes from the channel 62 (see figure 2 ) and solvent, which has been used to clean or rinse the print head 1 and / or umbilicus 19. A conduit 511 directs these fluids to the inlet of the means 50.

The latter comprise a pump 53 (the pump 1 ^AD), optionally a filter 52 arranged in series therewith, for example upstream of the pump, and means 51 forming inlet valve. These means 51 comprise one or more valve (s), preferably a three-way valve. They make it possible to send, towards the pump 53, exclusively or fluid which comes from the head 1 (position NO of the valve in figure 5 ), via the duct 511, that is to say the solvent coming from the means 100 (position NC of the valve in figure 5 ) via the conduit 335.

The fluid pumped by the pump 53 can then be sent to the main reservoir 10.

The figure 15 illustrates a more detailed representation of the means 300, in cooperation with the main tank 10 and the means 200.

The main reservoir 10 is preferably provided with means 15 for detecting the level of the ink (in fact, the ink is mixed with solvent) contained therein.

The reference 301 designates the cannula (or any equivalent means), which will make it possible to connect, from the fluidic point of view, a cartridge 30 to the rest of the circuit; here it connects the can 84, which replaced the cartridge 30, to the rest of the circuit.

In operation during printing, when a cartridge 30 is in place and contains ink, ink can be pumped using pumping means 31 ^(4th pump) towards the reservoir main 10 via fluidic connection means, comprising ducts 346, 343, 344, 347 and one or more valves (or solenoid valves) 33, 35, which may be "3-way" type valves. Thus, the ink transfer pump 31 pumps ink, from the cartridge 30, which passes successively via the valves 35 and 33 (respectively in positions "12", or "NC", and "23", or "NO" on the figure 15 ), and by the conduits 343, 344, 347 to arrive in the main tank 10. The state NO (respectively NC) of the valve 35 corresponds to the position "23" (respectively "12") and connects the conduits 345 and 343 (respectively 346 and 343).

• jusqu'au réservoir 10 (via le conduit 347, vanne 35 en position « 32 » (NO), vanne 33 en position « 23 » (NO)) ; ceci pour envoyer du solvant de nettoyage vers le réservoir 10 ;
• jusqu'au conduit 320 (via le conduit 348, vanne 35 en position « 32 » (NO), vanne 33 en position « 21 » (NC)). La vanne 37 étant en position NO, le solvant peut ensuite être dirigé vers le bidon 84 par les conduits 344, 348 et 320.

In input means 300, means 345, 35, for example respectively a conduit and a valve (when it is in position "32" (NO) on the figure 15 ), will allow to receive solvent from the means 100. The means 300 may carry this solvent to a pressure, for example, in gauge pressure, between 0 and 5 bar, or between 0 bar and 10 bar, in fluidic connection means. Depending on the open or closed state of the valves 35 and 33, this solvent can be directed via the conduits 343, 344:

• to tank 10 (via line 347, valve 35 in position "32" (NO), valve 33 in position "23"(NO)); this to send cleaning solvent to the tank 10;
• to the conduit 320 (via the conduit 348, valve 35 in position "32" (NO), valve 33 in position "21" (NC)). The valve 37 being in the NO position, the solvent can then be directed towards the can 84 by the conduits 344, 348 and 320.

The means 200, the output of the main tank 10, comprises a pump 20 ^(3rd pump, said pump for pressurizing the ink) for pumping of the ink, or the fluid contained therein, from of the main tank 10, and this still or this fluid can be directed either to the main tank itself (via a return duct 318) or, via one or more ducts 319, 320, to the can 84 itself (and to this one). The path of the ink at the outlet of the pump 20 can be controlled using one or more valves 37, preferably a 3-way valve. In figure 15 , the position "21"("NC") of the valve 37 directs the fluid to the conduit 319, the position "23"("NO") to the conduit 318. Fluid can be sent to the head of 1, via a conduit 21, which takes it downstream of the pump 20, from a point disposed between the output of the pump 20 and the valve 37. The print head itself contains a valve which allows to authorize, or not, the production of an inkjet and, possibly, an impression.

In general, the instructions for activating the pumps and the valves are sent and controlled by the control means 3 (also called "controller") already described above. In particular, it is these instructions that will make it possible to circulate solvent under pressure, from the means 100, towards the various other means 1, and / or 50, and / or 300 of the circuit (and possibly, via these latter means). means 300, to the main tank 10).

The control means 3 control the opening and closing of each valve, as well as the activation of the pumping means, in order to circulate the ink and / or the solvent as described in the present application. It also stores data, for example ink level measurement data and / or solvent, and their possible treatment. The controller is also programmed to handle non-cleaning operations, including print operations.

An ink circuit in which the circuits and methods described above, in particular in connection with the Figures 3 - 15 , can be used, is illustrated in figure 16 . The various means 10, 50, 100, 200, 300 described above are combined therein.

Numerical references identical to those of the preceding figures denote identical or corresponding elements.

At the outlet of the main tank 10, there is arranged a filter 22, then the pump 20 and an anti-pulsating device 23. A pressure sensor 24, and possibly a temperature sensor, can be provided, as illustrated in the figure: the data supplied to the controller to enslave the ink pressure to a setpoint, usually when the ink jet speed in the head is not available (for example when jet ejection is stopped, or jet speed is not measurable). As already indicated above, the ink is sent to the print head 1, via the conduit 21, connected downstream of the anti-pulsation device 23, between the pump 20 and the valve 37. The print head contains itself a valve that allows to allow or not, the production of an inkjet and possibly an impression.

The ink is filtered by the main filter 27 downstream of the sensor 24 before being sent to the head 1.

The intermediate reservoir 14 has already been described above. A duct 141 makes it possible to put at the same atmospheric pressure the free volume, situated above each of the liquids contained in the tanks 10 and 14.

It may be noted that, when the valve 42 is in the "NC" position while the valve 35 is in the "NC" position, the circulation of solvent is blocked, both in the direction of the cartridge 30 and in the direction of the duct 343; the solvent is thus directed towards the valve 51 or to the restriction 45 (to then enter the intermediate tank 14).

The invention is of particular interest in the case of an ink containing dispersions of dense particles such as metals or metal oxide pigments. For example, titanium, zinc, chromium, cobalt or iron (such as TiO 2, ZnO, Fe 2 O 3, Fe 3 O 4,...) In the form of micron or sub-micron particles. Such pigment ink may, for example based on TiO2, be used for the marking and identification of black or dark supports.

But it is also interesting in the case of any ink, non-pigmentary, which, as already explained, can dry and form deposits of dry matter in the conduits and connections of the ink circuit.

Claims (15)

Device for assisting the cleaning of the fluid circuit of an ink jet printer, comprising: - a support (80) defining, between a front face (80c) of access and a rear face (80d), a free volume (80a), substantially parallelepipedic; means (88, 90, 94) for hooking the support; - means (110, 110a, 112, 112a) forming 2 fluidic connections, the means (88, 90, 94) for hooking the support and the means (110, 110a, 112, 112a) forming 2 fluidic connections, being arranged on or against the rear face, on the opposite side to said free volume (80a). Apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising plugs (83, 85), each plug having fluidic connection tips (833, 834, 853, 854). Device according to one of claims 1 or 2, the support further comprising: means (87, 96, 98, 100, 196, 198, 102, 102 ') defining side faces of the free volume (80a), perpendicular to said front face (80c); and / or a base (86) perpendicular to said front face (80c). and / or means defining at least one edge (86 ', 196, 198, 102, 102') of said front face (80c), extending parallel thereto. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, comprising at least means (100), defining 2 compartments of the free volume (80a). Device according to claim 4, said means (100), defining 2 compartments of the free volume (80a), comprising at least one flange (86 ', 102, 102') extending along a portion of said front face (80c). Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, comprising at least a rear plate portion (87), defining said rear face (80d). Device according to claim 6, further comprising at least one flange (88), substantially perpendicular to said rear plate, provided with means (90, 94) for fastening the support. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, the fastening means of the support comprising an axis (94) of rotation of the device. Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising means (200) for locking containers disposed in said free volume (80a) and / or at least one window (87a, 87b) in the rear face (80d) of the device. Inkjet printer comprising: - a print head (1); a circuit (4) for supplying the print head (1) with ink and with a solvent, - A cleaning assistance device according to one of claims 1 to 9. A method of cleaning an ink jet printer having a fluid circuit fed by an ink cartridge (30) and a solvent cartridge (40) disposed in the cartridge compartment (400) of the printer, this process comprising: - the removal of the cartridges; - positioning in said compartment (400) of cartridges, of a device according to one of claims 1 to 9, provided in said volume (80a), a ¹ container (82) containing solvent, and a ^2nd container (84), and connecting, using means of fluid connection, from ¹ container (82) to the solvent supply system and of the ^2nd container (84) to the system ink supply to the printer; - the transmission of the solvent ¹ container (82) in at least a portion of the fluid circuit of the printer, and recovering this solvent after passing through said at least one part of the circuit, in the ^2nd container ( 84). Method according to the preceding claim, wherein: the solvent of the first container (82) is sent into at least a portion of the fluid circuit of the printer by means of the solvent transfer pump (41) of this circuit; and / or a mixture of solvent and ink, after cleaning the fluid circuit of the printer, is sent to the second container (84) by means of the ink transfer pump (31) or a pressurizing pump (20) of this circuit. Method according to one of claims 11 or 12, wherein after cleaning of the fluid circuit of the printer, the ^2nd container (84) is removed from the support, then is replaced by the ^1st container (82). A method according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein, during the cleaning of the fluid circuit of the printer, part of the liquid of the ^2nd container (84) is sent to the drum ¹ (82). Process according to one of Claims 11 to 14, in which: - ¹ container (82) contains an initial solvent volume at least greater than the maximum volume of solvent contained in the solvent cartridge (40); - and / or the ^2nd container (84) has a volume at least greater than the initial volume of solvent contained in the container ^1.

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