JP2011167958A - Liquid ejector - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a liquid ejector which can make small a device for changing a supply passage of a liquid supplied to a liquid ejection head. <P>SOLUTION: The liquid ejector includes the liquid ejection head which ejects the liquid, a first supply passage which supplies a first liquid, a second supply passage which supplies a second liquid, a joining supply passage 64 which communicates with the first supply passage and second supply passage, a head side supply passage 33a which communicates with the joining supply passage 64 to supply the liquid to the liquid ejection head, a top member 100 which is stored to be able to move inside the joining supply passage 64 to block or open the first supply passage, second supply passage and head side supply passage 33a by its movement, and a top driving part 80 which is arranged outside the joining supply passage 64 to move the top member 100 by a magnetic force. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a liquid ejecting apparatus.

  Conventionally, there is an ink jet printer (hereinafter referred to as “printer”) as a kind of liquid ejecting apparatus. This printer supplies ink from an ink cartridge containing ink (liquid) to a liquid ejecting head (hereinafter referred to as “head”) mounted on a carriage, and the ink is supplied to a plurality of nozzles formed on the nozzle forming surface of the head. Printing is performed by ejecting from a nozzle onto a recording medium disposed on the platen. In such a printer, the ink is supplied to the head through a tube drawn from the ink cartridge.

  By the way, when the ink ejected from the nozzles of the head is changed to a different type of ink, first, the supply of ink from the ink cartridge used so far is stopped. Subsequently, the remaining ink in the tube is discharged from the state through the nozzle of the head. Then, after the inside of the tube is cleaned by discharging the residual ink, the ink cartridge is changed to an ink cartridge containing different types of ink, and the different types of ink are supplied to the head via the tube.

  In this way, when changing the type of ink ejected from the nozzle of the head by changing the ink cartridge containing different types of ink, it is necessary to discharge the ink before the change remaining in the tube. For this reason, the ink in the tube is wasted. In particular, when the length of the tube is long, the amount of ink that is wasted increases.

  Techniques for solving such problems have been studied. For example, in Patent Document 1, a switching device connected to each ink cartridge via a tube corresponding to each ink cartridge is provided in the vicinity of the head. A printer is disclosed.

  In the printer of Patent Document 1, the type of ink supplied to the head in the switching device can be switched between the first ink and the second ink. That is, in the switching device, the downstream end of the first passage portion for supplying the first ink and the downstream end of the second passage portion for supplying the second ink are joined, and the ink is between the joining point and the head. Are connected by a head-side supply path that supplies the head to the head. Further, in this switching device, a first on-off valve that opens and closes the first passage portion and a second on-off valve that opens and closes the second passage portion are provided. The supply state of the first ink and the second ink is switched by opening the one on-off valve and closing the other on-off valve.

JP 2006-175626 A

  Incidentally, in the printer of Patent Document 1, two sliders are provided in the switching device. Then, the first on-off valve and the second on-off valve are respectively opened and closed by sliding the two sliders linearly and swinging the first pressing member and the second pressing member. For this reason, it is necessary to secure a space for sliding the two sliders in the switching device, which may increase the size of the switching device and the size of the printer.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is to provide a liquid ejecting apparatus capable of reducing the size of an apparatus for changing a supply path of a liquid to be supplied to a liquid ejecting head. Objective.

  In order to solve the above problems, a liquid ejecting apparatus of the present invention includes a liquid ejecting head that ejects liquid, a first supply path that supplies a first liquid, a second supply path that supplies a second liquid, A confluence supply path that communicates with the first supply path and the second supply path, a head side supply path that communicates with the confluence supply path and supplies liquid to the liquid ejecting head, and is movable within the confluence supply path A top member that closes or opens the first supply path, the second supply path, and the head-side supply path by movement thereof, and is disposed outside the merged supply path, so that the top member is magnetized. And a frame drive unit that is moved by the above.

  According to this liquid ejecting apparatus, the top member that closes or opens the first supply path, the second supply path, and the head side supply path moves in accordance with the magnetic force of the top drive unit disposed outside the merged supply path. . For this reason, as shown in Patent Document 1, it is not necessary to secure a space for sliding the two sliders. That is, the frame member requires less space when moving compared to the linear motion cam that linearly slides and moves as shown in Patent Document 1. Therefore, it is possible to provide a liquid ejecting apparatus capable of reducing the size of the apparatus for changing the supply path of the liquid supplied to the liquid ejecting head.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus, the first supply path and the second supply path are connected to a position facing the merge supply path in the first direction, and the coma member is moved in the first direction. As a result of this movement, either one of the first supply path and the second supply path may be closed.

  According to this liquid ejecting apparatus, the top member moves in the same direction as the connection direction of the first supply path and the second supply path with respect to the merged supply path. For this reason, compared with the case where the top member moves in a direction different from the connecting direction of the first supply path and the second supply path with respect to the merged supply path, it is possible to reduce the space required for the movement. Therefore, it is possible to quickly switch the liquid supplied from one of the first supply path and the second supply path to the liquid ejecting head.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus, both the first supply path and the second supply path may be opened by moving the top member to an intermediate position of the merging supply path in the first direction.

  According to the liquid ejecting apparatus, when both the first supply path and the second supply path are opened, the distance between the top member and the first supply path and the distance between the top member and the second supply path are the same. . For this reason, the top member has the first supply path or the second supply path as compared to the case where both the first supply path and the second supply path are opened by movement to a position different from the intermediate position of the merge supply path in the first direction. The space required when moving from the supply path can be reduced. Therefore, both the first supply path and the second supply path can be quickly opened.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus, the head side supply path is connected to the merging supply path in a second direction different from the first direction, and the top member is moved in the second direction. The head side supply path may be closed or opened.

  According to this liquid ejecting apparatus, the head-side supply path is closed or opened by the movement of the top member in the second direction different from the first direction in which one of the first supply path and the second supply path is switched. For this reason, switching to various modes such as blocking one of the first supply path and the second supply path, opening both the first supply path and the second supply path, and closing or opening the head side supply path. Can do. Accordingly, it is possible to change the liquid supply path to be selected from a plurality of modes and supplied to the liquid ejecting head as needed.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus, the second direction may be a rotation direction with the first direction as a central axis.

  According to this liquid ejecting apparatus, the head side supply path is closed or opened by the rotation of the top member in the second direction with the first direction as the central axis. For this reason, the top member can reduce the space required at the time of movement compared with the case where the second direction is different from the rotation direction having the first direction as the central axis. Therefore, the head side supply path can be quickly closed or opened.

  Further, in the liquid ejecting apparatus, the top member may be a cylinder that extends in the first direction and in which a groove is formed over the entire length in the extending direction.

  According to this liquid ejecting apparatus, the head side supply path is opened by the groove formed in the top member facing the head side supply path in accordance with the movement of the top member. Further, the head side supply path is closed by the main body of the top member (the portion where no groove is formed) abutting the head side supply path. Therefore, since the head side supply path can be closed or opened with only one piece member, the number of parts can be reduced.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus, the top member may be a column that extends in the first direction and has a convex portion formed in a part of the extending direction.

  According to this liquid ejecting apparatus, the head-side supply path is closed by the protrusions formed on the top member coming into contact with the head-side supply path in accordance with the movement of the top member. In addition, the head-side supply path is opened by separating the convex portion of the top member from the head-side supply path. Therefore, since the head side supply path can be closed or opened with only one piece member, the number of parts can be reduced.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus, the top drive unit may include a pendulum member and a magnetic body disposed on the pendulum member.

  According to this liquid ejecting apparatus, the top member moves according to the rotation of the pendulum type top drive unit, so that less space is required than when the top member is moved by the linear top drive unit. Therefore, it is possible to quickly change the supply path of the liquid supplied to the liquid ejecting head.

FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating a schematic configuration of the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the first embodiment. It is a front view which shows schematic structure of a carriage. It is a disassembled perspective view of the switching apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a front view of the switching device concerning a 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows each supply path of the switching apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the top member of the switching apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the top drive part of the switching apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a front view which shows the movement state of the top member of the switching apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the movement state of the top member of the switching apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows each supply path of the switching apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the top member of the switching apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the frame drive part of the switching apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a front view which shows the movement state of the top member of the switching apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the movement state of the top member of the switching apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the top drive part of the switching apparatus which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the top drive part of the switching apparatus which concerns on 4th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the top drive part of the switching apparatus which concerns on 5th Embodiment.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. This embodiment shows one aspect of the present invention, and does not limit the present invention, and can be arbitrarily changed within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. Moreover, in the following drawings, in order to make each structure easy to understand, an actual structure and a scale, a number, and the like in each structure are different.

  Hereinafter, description will be made based on the XYZ orthogonal coordinate system shown in FIG. In this XYZ orthogonal coordinate system, the X direction and the Y direction are parallel to the surface direction of the platen 13, and the Z direction is orthogonal to the surface direction of the platen 13. Actually, the XY plane is set to a plane parallel to the horizontal plane, and the Z direction is set to the vertically upward direction. Here, the conveyance direction of the recording paper (not shown) is set to the Y direction, and the scanning direction of the liquid ejecting head 18 is set to the X direction.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating a schematic configuration of a carriage constituting the liquid ejecting apparatus. Hereinafter, an ink jet printer will be described as an example of the liquid ejecting apparatus.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid ejecting apparatus 1 includes a frame 12 that has a rectangular shape in plan view. A platen 13 is installed in the frame 12 so as to extend along the X direction which is the main scanning direction. On the platen 13, a recording sheet (not shown) as a target is fed along a Y direction which is a sub-scanning direction by a paper feeding mechanism (not shown). Further, the platen 13 includes a plurality of suction holes (not shown) for sucking the recording paper. The recording sheet is held on the upper surface of the platen 13 by a suction force acting on the plurality of suction holes. Thereby, cockling and curling of the recording paper can be suppressed. Further, a bar-shaped guide member 14 parallel to the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the platen 13 is installed above the platen 13 in the frame 12.

  A carriage 15 is supported on the guide member 14 so as to be capable of reciprocating along the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the guide member 14. The carriage 15 is connected to a carriage motor 17 provided on the back surface of the frame 12 via an endless timing belt 16 stretched between a pair of pulleys 16 a provided on the rear surface in the frame 12. Accordingly, the carriage 15 is reciprocated along the guide member 14 by driving the carriage motor 17.

  A liquid ejecting head 18 is provided on the lower surface of the carriage 15 (the surface facing the platen 13). A plurality of (four in this embodiment) valve units 19 a to 19 d for supplying temporarily stored liquid (ink) to the liquid ejecting head 18 are provided on the carriage 15. The lower surface of the liquid jet head 18 is a nozzle forming surface 18A on which a plurality of (three in this embodiment) nozzles 20a to 20c are formed (see FIG. 2). Printing is performed by ejecting ink droplets onto the recording paper fed onto the platen 13 from the nozzles 20a to 20c.

  A cartridge holder 21 is provided at the right end (the end on the + X direction side) in the frame 12. A plurality (four in the present embodiment) of ink cartridges 22a to 22d that contain different types of ink are detachably mounted on the cartridge holder 21. The cartridge holder 21 is connected to the valve units 19a to 19d on the carriage 15 via ink supply tubes 24a to 24d, respectively. When the ink cartridges 22a to 22d are attached to the cartridge holder 21, the ink cartridges 22a to 22d communicate with the valve units 19a to 19d via the ink supply tubes 24a to 24d, respectively. .

  Each of the ink cartridges 22a to 22d contains, for example, ink of each color such as cyan, magenta, yellow, matte black, photo black, light cyan, light magenta, and gray. In the present embodiment, the ink cartridge 22a and the ink cartridge 22b contain photo black ink (FB) as the first liquid and mat black ink (MB) as the second liquid, respectively. Therefore, FB is temporarily stored in the valve unit 19a, and MB is temporarily stored in the valve unit 19b.

  Here, FB is suitable for printing when the recording paper is glossy paper, and MB is suitable for printing when the recording paper is matte paper. Therefore, a switching device 60 is provided for switching so that the ink supplied from the both valve units 19a and 19b on the carriage 15 to the liquid ejecting head 18 is either FB or MB.

  That is, the switching device 60 can switch the ink ejected from the nozzles 20a of the liquid ejecting head 18 between the FB and the MB depending on, for example, whether the recording paper is glossy paper or matte paper. ing. The switching device 60 is connected to a control device 50 that drives and controls a later-described piece driving unit. Between the control device 50 and the switching device 60, for example, a gear train mechanism in which a plurality of gears are engaged is provided. The train wheel mechanism is driven by a drive control signal from the control device 50, and the top drive unit is controlled and driven.

  In addition, a maintenance unit 26 for cleaning the liquid ejecting head 18, flushing, and the like is disposed near the right end (+ X direction side) in the frame 12 and at the home position of the carriage 15. The maintenance unit 26 can seal the nozzles 20a to 20c formed on the nozzle forming surface 18A of the liquid ejecting head 18, and can receive ink discharged from the nozzles 20a to 20c by flushing. A cap 27 having an open upper side (+ Z direction side) is provided.

Next, the configuration of the switching device will be described in detail.
FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the switching device according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a front view of the switching device according to the first embodiment. In addition, in FIG. 4, illustration of the partition part between a confluence | merging supply path and a top drive part is abbreviate | omitted for convenience.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating each supply path of the switching device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5A is a front view showing each supply path of the switching device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view along the line AA shown in FIG. Further, in FIG. 5A, for the sake of convenience, the illustration of the partition portion between the merging supply path and the top drive portion is omitted.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the switching device 60 includes a first supply path 31 a that supplies photo black ink (FB) as the first liquid to the liquid ejecting head 18, and a mat black ink ( MB), a merging supply path 64 that communicates with the first supply path 31a and the second supply path 32a, and a head that communicates with the merging supply path 64 and supplies liquid to the liquid jet head 18. A side supply path 33a, a top member 100 that is movably accommodated inside the merge supply path 64, and closes or opens the first supply path 31a, the second supply path 32a, and the head side supply path 33a by the movement; And a piece driving unit 80 that is disposed outside the merging supply path 64 and moves the piece member 100 by magnetic force. Here, the “magnetic force” refers to a magnetic force (a force that repels the same kind of magnetic poles and a force that resonates with different magnetic poles).

  Specifically, the switching device 60 includes a body portion 61 having a symmetrical box shape, and a cylindrical first member erected in a pair at a predetermined interval in the X direction on the upper surface of the body portion 61. The connecting pipe 31 and the second connecting pipe 32, and a cylindrical head-side connecting pipe 33 provided at the center of the lower surface of the main body 61 are provided. The first connection pipe 31 has a first supply path 31a formed therein and is connected to a valve unit 19a (a valve unit in which the FB is temporarily stored). The second connection pipe 32 has a second supply path 32a formed therein and is connected to a valve unit 19b (a valve unit in which MB is temporarily stored). In addition, as a forming material of the main-body part 61, a polypropylene (PP) can be used, for example.

  A first opening 65 is provided at the end portion on the −X direction side of the merge supply path 64 formed inside the main body 61. The first supply path 31 a communicates with the merging supply path 64 from the first connection pipe 31 via the first opening 65. At the end on the −X direction side of the main body portion 61, a bottomed long cylindrical first seal portion 61a is provided. The first seal portion 61 a is a portion where the first supply path 31 a is exposed on the way from the first connection pipe 31 to the first opening 65. The first seal portion 61 a is sealed by the first seal member 71 and the first sealing member 73.

  The first seal member 71 has a cylindrical first protrusion 71a and a second protrusion 71b. In the first seal portion 61 a, the first protrusion 71 a is fitted into the first supply path 31 a that communicates with the inside of the first connection pipe 31, and the second projection 71 b communicates with the interior of the first opening 65. 1 is inserted into the supply path 31a.

  In addition, as a forming material of the 1st sealing member 71, a styrene-type elastomer can be used, for example. In addition, a polypropylene film (PP film) can be used as the first sealing member 73. For example, after inserting the first seal member 71 into the first seal portion 61a, the first sealing member 73 is disposed at the end on the −X direction side of the main body portion 61 so as to cover the first seal member 71, Thereafter, the first seal member 71 and the main body 61 can be thermally welded. Thus, a first supply path 31 a that communicates with the merging supply path 64 from the first connection pipe 31 via the first opening 65 is formed.

  On the other hand, a second opening 66 is provided at the end portion on the + X direction side of the merging supply path 64 formed inside the main body 61. The second supply path 32 a communicates with the merging supply path 64 from the second connection pipe 32 via the second opening 66. At the end on the + X direction side of the main body portion 61, a bottomed long cylindrical second seal portion 61b is provided. The second seal portion 61 b is a portion where the second supply path 32 a is exposed on the way from the second connection pipe 32 to the second opening 66. The second seal portion 61 b is sealed by the second seal member 72 and the second sealing member 74.

  The second seal member 72 has a cylindrical first protrusion 72a and a second protrusion 72b. In the second seal portion 61 b, the first protrusion 72 a is fitted into the second supply path 32 a that communicates with the inside of the second connection pipe 32, and the second projection 72 b communicates with the interior of the second opening 66. 2 is inserted into the supply path 32a.

  As a material for forming the second seal member 72, for example, a styrene elastomer can be used as in the case of the first seal member 71. Further, as the second sealing member 74, a PP film can be used similarly to the first sealing member 73. For example, after the second seal member 72 is fitted and inserted into the second seal portion 61b, the second seal member 74 is disposed at the end on the + X direction side of the main body portion 61 so as to cover the second seal member 72, and thereafter The second seal member 72 and the main body 61 can be thermally welded. As a result, a second supply path 32 a that communicates with the merging supply path 64 from the second connection pipe 32 via the second opening 66 is formed.

  The merging supply path 64 has a rectangular shape extending in the X direction when viewed from the front, and has a circular arc shape at a part (+ Y direction side) when viewed from the side. The 1st supply path 31a and the 2nd supply path 32a are connected with the position which opposes the 1st direction (X direction) with respect to the confluence | merging supply path 64. FIG.

  A third opening 67 is provided at the center of the merging supply path 64 formed in the main body 61. The head side supply path 33 a communicates with the merge supply path 64 from the head side connection pipe 33 via the third opening 67. The head side supply path 33a is connected to the merge supply path 64 in a second direction (+ Y direction) different from the first direction. Specifically, the head side supply path 33a is connected to the merging supply path 64 in a second direction (+ Y direction) orthogonal to the first direction (X direction). That is, the second direction is a rotational direction with the first direction as the central axis. Moreover, the head side supply path 33a is connected to the arc-shaped part (back surface part) of the merging supply path 64, and is formed in an L shape in a side view.

  A film-like partition portion 75 that partitions between the merging supply path 64 and the top drive portion 80 is provided at the end portion of the main body portion 61 on the −Y direction side. As the partition part 75, a PP film can be used. For example, after the top member 100 is disposed inside the merge supply path 64, the partition portion 75 is disposed on the front surface portion (the end on the −Y direction side) of the main body 61 so as to block the merge supply path 64, and thereafter The main body part 61 (the peripheral part of the merged supply path 64 of the main body part 61) can be thermally welded. Thus, the top member 100 is movably accommodated in the merged supply path 64 in which the first supply path 31a, the second supply path 32a, and the head-side supply path communicate with each other.

Next, the configuration of the top member 100 and the top drive unit 80 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a top member of the switching device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6A is a perspective view showing the piece member. FIG. 6B is a rear view showing the piece member.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a top drive unit of the switching device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7A is a front view showing the top drive unit. Moreover, FIG.7 (b) is sectional drawing along the BB line shown to Fig.7 (a). In FIG. 7A, reference numeral L1 denotes a distance between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 80 (a central axis of a through hole 62a described later) and the center of the first magnetic body 91, and reference numeral L2 denotes the top drive. The distance between the rotation center axis of the portion 80 and the center of the second magnetic body 92, and the symbol L3 is the distance between the rotation center axis of the top drive section 80 and the center of the third magnetic body 93.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the top member 100 is a cylinder that extends in the first direction and in which the groove 103 is formed over the entire length in the extending direction. A magnetic body 102 is provided on a part of the top member 100. Specifically, the piece member 100 includes a piece member main body 101 and a magnetic body 102 embedded in the central portion of the piece member main body 101 (the side opposite to the side on which the groove 103 is formed). . The magnetic body 102 has a rectangular shape having a length in the first direction when viewed from the front. In addition, as a forming material of the top member main body 101, a polypropylene (PP) can be used, for example.

  As shown in FIG. 7, a support portion 62 is erected at the center of the upper surface of the main body portion 61 so as to support the top drive portion 80 so as to be movable. The support portion 62 is formed with a circular through hole 62a that is a center of rotation of the top drive portion 80 and is circular in front view.

  The top drive unit 80 includes a front-view fan-shaped pendulum member 81 and a rectangular magnetic body (first magnetic body 91, second magnetic body 92, and third magnetic body 93) disposed on the pendulum member 81. Have. A columnar protrusion 82 is formed on the top of the pendulum member 81. The top drive unit 80 is configured so that the projection 82 is inserted into the through-hole 62a of the support unit 62, so that the rotation center axis (through-penetration) is based on a drive control signal from the control device 50 connected to the top drive unit 80. It is configured to rotate with reference to the central axis of the hole 62a. As a material for forming the pendulum member 81, for example, polyacetal (POM) can be used.

  Here, the “magnetic body” (the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side, and the first magnetic body 91, the second magnetic body 92, and the third magnetic body 93 on the top drive unit 80 side) It is an object that has a force that repels magnetic poles and a force that resonates with different magnetic poles. In the present embodiment, magnets (for example, permanent magnets) are used as the first magnetic body 91, the second magnetic body 92, and the third magnetic body 93 on the top drive unit 80 side, and a metal (for example, the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side) Iron). As a result, a mutual pulling force acts between the first magnetic body 91, the second magnetic body 92, and the third magnetic body 93 on the top drive unit 80 side and the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side. ing.

  In the present embodiment, the first magnetic body 91, the second magnetic body 92, and the third magnetic body 93 are embedded and fixed on the back surface (the surface on the + Y direction side) of the pendulum member 81. As a result, the first magnetic body 91, the second magnetic body 92, and the third magnetic body 93 move according to the rotation of the pendulum member 81.

  When the first magnetic body 91 and the third magnetic body 93 are positioned at the center with respect to the merging supply path 64 due to the rotation of the top drive unit 80, the first magnetic body 91 and the third magnetic body 93 are positioned so as to overlap the third opening 67 in front view. Be placed. The distance L1 between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 80 and the center of the first magnetic body 91 is a distance L3 between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 80 and the center of the third magnetic body 93. (L1≈L3). The first magnetic body 91 and the third magnetic body 93 are for moving the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side in the first direction (X direction) by a magnetic force.

  The first magnetic body 91 has a rectangular shape having a length in the normal direction of the rotation direction when viewed from the front. Thereby, even when the first magnetic body 91 is separated from the central portion with respect to the merging supply path 64 by the rotation of the top driving unit 80, a magnetic force is applied to the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side. Can be done. The third magnetic body 93 is a rectangle having a longitudinal axis in the tangential direction of the rotation direction when viewed from the front.

  In addition, the second magnetic body 92 has a rectangular shape having a length in the tangential direction of the rotation direction when viewed from the front. The distance L2 between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 80 and the center of the second magnetic body 92 is the distance L1 between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 80 and the center of the first magnetic body 91. (L2 <L1). The second magnetic body 92 moves the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side in the second direction (rotation direction with the first direction as the central axis) by magnetic force.

Next, the movement of the top member 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 8 is a front view illustrating a moving state of the top member of the switching device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8A is a view when the top member 100 is located at an intermediate position of the merge supply path 64 in the first direction. FIG. 8B is a view when the top member 100 is located on the −X direction side of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction. FIG. 8C is a view when the top member 100 is located on the + X direction side of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction. FIG. 8D is a view when the top member 100 rotates inside the merging supply path 64 with the first direction as the central axis. In FIG. 8, for convenience, only the internal configuration of the merge supply path 64 is illustrated, and other illustrations are omitted.
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a moving state of the top member of the switching device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC shown in FIG. FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view along the line DD shown in FIG.

  Here, the top drive unit 80 rotates based on the rotation center axis (the center axis of the through hole 62a) based on the drive control signal from the control device 50, and according to this, the first magnet on the top drive unit 80 side. A description will be given of how the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side is moved by a magnetic force by moving the body 91, the second magnetic body 92, and the third magnetic body 93. In the present embodiment, magnets (permanent magnets) are used as the first magnetic body 91, the second magnetic body 92, and the third magnetic body 93 on the top drive unit 80 side, and metal is used as the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side. Use. As a result, a mutual pulling force acts between the first magnetic body 91, the second magnetic body 92, and the third magnetic body 93 on the top drive unit 80 side and the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side. ing.

  First, as shown in FIG. 8A, consider a state in which the top member 100 is located at an intermediate position of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction. This state is caused by positioning the first magnetic body 91 or the third magnetic body 93 on the top driving section 80 side in the center with respect to the merging supply path 64 by the rotation of the top driving section 80. In this case, the magnetic force between the first magnetic body 91 or the third magnetic body 93 on the top drive unit 80 side and the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side influences the top member 100 side. The magnetic body 102 is stationary at the central portion of the merging supply path 64 with the front surface (−Y direction side) facing. Then, the first magnetic body 91 or the third magnetic body 93 on the top drive unit 80 side is arranged at a position overlapping the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side in a front view.

  That is, the groove 103 of the piece member 100 on the side opposite to the magnetic body 102 in the front view is disposed at a position overlapping the third opening 67 (see FIG. 9A). Thereby, the 3rd opening part 67 is open | released. Further, since the top member 100 is positioned at an intermediate position of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction, both the first opening 65 and the second opening 66 are opened. Therefore, both the first supply path 31a and the second supply path 32a are in a mode of communicating with the head-side supply path 33a (first mode). This first mode can be applied at the time of cleaning each supply path, for example.

  Note that the first mode does not necessarily occur when the top member 100 is positioned at the intermediate position of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction. For example, it occurs even when the top member 100 is slightly displaced in the X direction from the intermediate position of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction. That is, in the first mode, the groove 103 of the piece member 100 is disposed at a position overlapping the third opening, and both ends of the piece member 100 are predetermined from both the first opening 65 and the second opening 66. This occurs when they are separated from each other (so that liquid can be supplied).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 8B, consider a state in which the top member 100 is located on the −X direction side of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction. In this state, the first magnetic body 91 or the third magnetic body 93 (here, the first magnetic body 91) on the top driving section 80 side is moved in the −X direction with respect to the merging supply path 64 by the rotation of the top driving section 80. Caused by positioning to the side. In this case, the magnetic force between the first magnetic body 91 on the top drive unit 80 side and the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side is influenced, and the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side is in front. With the state facing (−Y direction side), the frame member 100 is stationary with one end portion (−X direction side end portion) in contact with the first opening 65.

  Even in this state, the groove 103 of the top member 100 opposite to the magnetic body 102 in the front view is disposed at a position overlapping the third opening 67. Thereby, the 3rd opening part 67 is open | released. Further, when the top member 100 is positioned on the −X direction side of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction, the first opening 65 is closed and the second opening 66 is opened. Therefore, the second supply path 32a and the head-side supply path 33a communicate with each other (second mode). This second mode can be applied, for example, when supplying mat black ink (MB) as the second liquid.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 8C, consider a state in which the top member 100 is located on the + X direction side of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction. In this state, rotation of the top drive unit 80 causes the first magnetic body 91 or the third magnetic body 93 (here, the first magnetic body 91) on the side of the top drive unit 80 to be on the + X direction side with respect to the merging supply path 64. This is caused by positioning the In this case, the magnetic force between the first magnetic body 91 on the top drive unit 80 side and the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side is influenced, and the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side is in front. With the state facing (−Y direction side), the frame member 100 is stationary with the other end portion (the end portion on the + X direction side) opposite to the one end portion of the top member 100 being in contact with the second opening 66.

  Even in this state, the groove 103 of the top member 100 opposite to the magnetic body 102 in the front view is disposed at a position overlapping the third opening 67. Thereby, the 3rd opening part 67 is open | released. Further, when the top member 100 is positioned on the + X direction side of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction, the first opening 65 is opened and the second opening 66 is closed. Therefore, the first supply path 31a and the head-side supply path 33a communicate with each other (third mode). This third mode can be applied, for example, when supplying photo black ink (FB) as the first liquid.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 8D, a state is considered in which the top member 100 is rotated inside the merging supply path 64 with the first direction as the central axis. This state is generated by positioning the second magnetic body 92 on the top drive unit 80 side in the center with respect to the merge supply path 64 by the rotation of the top drive unit 80. In this case, the magnetic force between the second magnetic body 92 on the top drive unit 80 side and the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side is affected, and the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side is in front. The state is inclined from the state facing (−Y direction side) to the + Z direction side, and is stationary at the center of the merging supply path 64. This is because the distance L2 between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 80 and the center of the second magnetic body 92 is the distance between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 80 and the center of the first magnetic body 91. This is because it is shorter than L1 (L2 <L1).

  That is, the groove 103 of the piece member 100 on the opposite side to the magnetic body 102 in the front view is disposed at a position shifted from the third opening 67 (see FIG. 9D). That is, the top member main body 101 is disposed at a position where it comes into contact with the third opening 67, and the third opening 67 is closed. Further, since the top member 100 is positioned at an intermediate position of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction, both the first opening 65 and the second opening 66 are opened. Therefore, both the first supply path 31a and the second supply path 32a communicate with each other (do not communicate with the head-side supply path 33a) (fourth mode). This fourth mode can be applied, for example, when the power is off or when the liquid ejecting head 18 is not printing.

  The fourth mode does not necessarily occur when the top member 100 is positioned at the intermediate position of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction. For example, it occurs even when the top member 100 is slightly displaced in the X direction from the intermediate position of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction. That is, the fourth mode occurs when the top member main body 101 is arranged at a position where it comes into contact with the third opening.

  According to the liquid ejecting apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, the top member 100 that closes or opens the first supply path 31a, the second supply path 32a, and the head-side supply path 33a is disposed outside the merging supply path 64. It moves with the magnetic force of the top drive unit 80. For this reason, as shown in Patent Document 1, it is not necessary to secure a space for sliding the two sliders. That is, the frame member 100 requires less space when moving compared to the linear motion cam that linearly slides and moves as shown in Patent Document 1. Therefore, it is possible to provide the liquid ejecting apparatus 1 that can reduce the size of the apparatus for changing the supply path of ink to be supplied to the liquid ejecting head 18.

  Further, according to this configuration, the top member 100 moves in the same direction as the connection direction of the first supply path 31a and the second supply path 32a with respect to the merged supply path 64. For this reason, the top member 100 can reduce the space required at the time of movement compared with the case where it moves in the direction different from the connection direction with respect to the merge supply path 64 of the 1st supply path 31a and the 2nd supply path 32a. It becomes. Accordingly, it is possible to quickly switch the ink supplied to the liquid ejecting head 18 from one of the first supply path 31a and the second supply path 32a.

  Further, according to this configuration, when both the first supply path 31a and the second supply path 32a are opened, the distance between the top member 100 and the first supply path 31a and between the top member 100 and the second supply path 32a. Are the same distance. For this reason, the top member 100 has the first supply compared to the case where both the first supply path 31a and the second supply path 32a are opened by movement to a position different from the intermediate position of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction. The space required when moving from the path 31a or the second supply path 32a can be reduced. Therefore, both the first supply path 31a and the second supply path 32a can be quickly opened.

  Further, according to this configuration, the head-side supply path 33a is blocked or moved by the movement of the top member 100 in the second direction different from the first direction for switching either the first supply path 31a or the second supply path 32a. Opened. For this reason, various ones such as blocking one of the first supply path 31a and the second supply path 32a, opening both the first supply path 31a and the second supply path 32a, and closing or opening the head side supply path 33a, etc. The mode can be switched to. Accordingly, it is possible to change the ink supply path to be supplied to the liquid ejecting head 18 by selecting from a plurality of modes as necessary.

  Further, according to this configuration, the head-side supply path 33a is closed or opened by the rotation of the top member 100 in the second direction with the first direction as the central axis. For this reason, the top member 100 can reduce the space required at the time of a movement compared with the case where the 2nd direction differs from the rotation direction centering on a 1st direction. Therefore, the head side supply path 33a can be quickly closed or opened.

  Further, according to this configuration, since the top member 100 extends in the first direction and the groove 103 is formed over the entire length in the extending direction, the top member 100 is moved along the movement of the top member 100. The formed groove 103 faces the head side supply path 33a, so that the head side supply path 103a is opened. Further, the top-side supply path 33a is closed when the top member main body 101 (the portion where the groove 103 is not formed) contacts the head-side supply path 33a. Therefore, since the head side supply path 33a can be closed or opened with only one piece member 100, the number of parts can be reduced.

  Further, according to this configuration, since the top member 100 moves according to the rotation of the pendulum type top drive unit 80, less space is required than when the top member is moved by the linear top drive unit. . Accordingly, it is possible to quickly change the supply path of the ink supplied to the liquid ejecting head 18.

  In the present embodiment, magnets are used as the first magnetic body 91, the second magnetic body 92, and the third magnetic body 93 on the top drive unit 80 side, and metal is used as the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side. Not limited to this. For example, a metal may be used as the first magnetic body 91, the second magnetic body 92, and the third magnetic body 93 on the top drive unit 80 side, and a magnet may be used as the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side. A magnet may be used as the first magnetic body 91, the second magnetic body 92, the third magnetic body 93 on the 80 side, and the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side.

  In the present embodiment, the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side is moved in the first direction (X direction) by the magnetic force using the two magnetic bodies of the first magnetic body 91 and the third magnetic body 93. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the magnetic body 102 on the top member 100 side may be moved in the first direction (X direction) by the magnetic force using one of the first magnetic body 91 and the third magnetic body 93.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the example in which the magnetic body 102 is provided in a part of the top member 100 has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Hereinafter, a switching device, a piece member, and a piece drive unit different from the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating each supply path of the switching device according to the second embodiment. In addition, Fig.10 (a) is a front view which shows each supply path of the switching apparatus based on 2nd Embodiment corresponding to Fig.5 (a). Moreover, FIG.10 (b) is sectional drawing along the EE line shown to Fig.10 (a) corresponding to FIG.5 (b). Further, in FIG. 10A, for the sake of convenience, the illustration of the partition portion between the merging supply path and the top drive portion is omitted.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a top member of the switching device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the top member of the switching device according to the second embodiment corresponding to FIG.
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a top drive unit of the switching device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12A is a front view showing the top drive unit corresponding to FIG. Moreover, FIG.12 (b) is sectional drawing along the FF line shown to Fig.12 (a) corresponding to FIG.7 (b). In FIG. 12A, reference numeral L4 denotes a distance between a rotation center axis of the top drive unit 180 (a center axis of a through-hole 162a described later) and the center of the first magnetic body 191, and reference numeral L5 denotes a top drive. The distance between the rotation center axis of the part 180 and the center of the second magnetic body 192, and the symbol L6 is the distance between the rotation center axis of the top drive part 180 and the center of the third magnetic body 193.
The switching device 160 according to this embodiment differs from the top member 100 according to the first embodiment in that the entire top member 200 is a magnetic body.

  As shown in FIGS. 10 to 12, the switching device 160 includes a first supply path 131 a that supplies the first liquid (FB) to the liquid ejecting head 18 (see FIG. 1) and a second supply that supplies the second liquid (MB). Two supply paths 132a, a merge supply path 164 that communicates with the first supply path 131a and the second supply path 132a, a head-side supply path 133a that communicates with the merge supply path 164 and supplies liquid to the liquid ejecting head 18. A coma member 200 that is movably accommodated in the merge supply path 164 and closes or opens the first supply path 131a, the second supply path 132a, and the head-side supply path 133a by the movement, and the exterior of the merge supply path 164 And a top drive unit 180 that moves the top member 200 by magnetic force.

  The switching device 160 includes a main body 161 having a symmetric box shape, a cylindrical first connecting pipe 131 and a first connecting pipe 131 which are erected on the upper surface of the main body 161 in pairs in the X direction at predetermined intervals. 2 connecting pipes 132 and a cylindrical head side connecting pipe 133 provided at the center of the lower surface of the main body part 161. The first connection pipe 131 has a first supply path 131a formed therein and is connected to the valve unit 19a. The second connection pipe 132 has a second supply path 132a formed therein and is connected to the valve unit 19b.

  A first opening 165 is provided at an end portion on the −X direction side of the confluence supply path 164 formed inside the main body 161. The first supply path 131 a communicates with the merge supply path 164 from the first connection pipe 131 via the first opening 165. On the other hand, a second opening 166 is provided at the end of the merge supply path 164 on the + X direction side. The second supply path 132 a communicates with the merge supply path 164 from the second connection pipe 132 via the second opening 166.

  The merge supply path 164 extends in the X direction when viewed from the front, and has a concave shape (concave part 168) below the center part. In other words, the merge supply path 164 has a T-shape when viewed from the front. Further, the merging supply path 164 has a circular arc shape in part in a side view (see FIG. 10B). The 1st supply path 131a and the 2nd supply path 132a are connected with the position which opposes the 1st direction (X direction) with respect to the confluence | merging supply path 164. FIG.

  A third opening 167 is provided in a recess 168 of the merge supply path 164 formed inside the main body 161. The head side supply path 133 a communicates with the merge supply path 164 from the head side connection pipe 133 via the third opening 167. The head side supply path 133a is connected to the merge supply path 164 in a second direction (+ Y direction) orthogonal to the first direction. That is, the second direction is a rotational direction with the first direction as the central axis. Moreover, the head side supply path 133a is connected to the inclined portion (back surface portion) of the recess 168 of the merge supply path 164, and is formed in an L shape in a side view (see FIG. 10B).

  A film-like partition 175 that partitions between the merge supply path 164 and the top drive unit 180 is provided at the end of the main body 161 on the −Y direction side. As the partition part 175, a PP film can be used. For example, after the top member 200 is disposed inside the merge supply path 164, the partition portion 175 is disposed at the end portion on the −Y direction side of the main body portion 161 so as to close the merge supply path 164, and then the main body portion 161. It can be heat-welded with (periphery of the confluence supply path 164 of the main body 161). As a result, the top member 200 is movably accommodated inside the merged supply path 164 in which the first supply path 131a, the second supply path 132a, and the head-side supply path communicate.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the top member 200 is a cylinder that extends in the first direction and has a convex portion 202 formed in a part of the extending direction. The top member 200 is entirely magnetic. Specifically, the top member 200 includes a top member main body 201 and a convex portion 202 erected at the center of the top member main body 201. The convex portion 202 is a rectangle having a length in the first direction when viewed from the front. The size of the convex portion 202 is smaller than the size of the concave portion 168 formed in the merging supply path 164 and larger than the size of the third opening 167.

  As shown in FIG. 12, a support portion 162 that movably supports the top drive portion 180 is erected at the center of the upper surface of the main body portion 161. The support portion 162 is formed with a circular through-hole 162 a that is a center of rotation of the top drive portion 180 and is circular in front view.

  The top driver 180 includes a front-view fan-shaped pendulum member 181 and a rectangular magnetic body (first magnetic body 191, second magnetic body 192, and third magnetic body 193) disposed on the pendulum member 181. Have. A columnar protrusion 182 is formed on the top of the pendulum member 181. The top drive unit 180 is configured such that the protrusion 182 is inserted into the through hole 162a of the support unit 162, so that the rotation center axis (the central axis of the through hole 162a) is based on a drive control signal from a control device (not shown). It is designed to rotate with reference to.

  In the present embodiment, magnets (for example, permanent magnets) are used as the first magnetic body 191, the second magnetic body 192, and the third magnetic body 193 on the top drive unit 180 side, and a metal (for example, the top member 200 as a magnetic body) Iron). As a result, the forces that are attracted to each other act between the first magnetic body 191, the second magnetic body 192, and the third magnetic body 193 on the top drive unit 180 side and the top member 200 side as a magnetic body. ing.

  The first magnetic body 191, the second magnetic body 192, and the third magnetic body 193 are embedded and fixed on the back surface (the surface on the + Y direction side) of the pendulum member 181. Accordingly, the first magnetic body 191, the second magnetic body 192, and the third magnetic body 193 move according to the rotation of the pendulum member 181.

  The first magnetic body 191 and the third magnetic body 193 overlap with the central portion of the top member main body 201 in a front view when positioned at the central portion with respect to the merging supply path 164 by the rotation of the top driving portion 180. Placed in position. The distance L4 between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 180 and the center of the first magnetic body 191 is a distance L6 between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 180 and the center of the third magnetic body 193. (L4≈L6). The first magnetic body 191 and the third magnetic body 193 move the top member 200 as a magnetic body in the first direction (X direction) by a magnetic force.

  In addition, the first magnetic body 191 has a rectangular shape having a length in the normal direction of the rotation direction when viewed from the front. Thereby, even when the first magnetic body 191 is separated from the central portion with respect to the merging supply path 164 by the rotation of the top driving section 180, a magnetic force is applied to the top member 200 as a magnetic body. Be able to. In addition, the third magnetic body 193 has a rectangular shape having a length in the tangential direction of the rotation direction when viewed from the front.

  Further, the second magnetic body 192 has a rectangular shape having a length in the tangential direction of the rotation direction when viewed from the front. The distance L5 between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 180 and the center of the second magnetic body 192 is a distance L4 between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 180 and the center of the first magnetic body 191. (L5> L4). The second magnetic body 192 moves the top member 200 as a magnetic body in the second direction (rotation direction with the first direction as the central axis) by a magnetic force.

Next, the movement of the top member 200 will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14.
FIG. 13 is a front view illustrating a moving state of the top member of the switching device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 13A is a view when the top member 200 corresponding to FIG. 8A is located at an intermediate position of the merging supply path 164 in the first direction. FIG. 13B is a view when the top member 200 corresponding to FIG. 8B is located on the −X direction side of the merging supply path 164 in the first direction. FIG. 13C is a view when the top member 200 corresponding to FIG. 8C is positioned on the + X direction side of the merging supply path 164 in the first direction. FIG. 13D is a view when the top member 200 corresponding to FIG. 8D rotates inside the merge supply path 164 with the first direction as the central axis. In FIG. 13, for convenience, only the internal configuration of the merge supply path 164 is illustrated, and the other illustrations are omitted.
FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a moving state of the top member of the switching device according to the second embodiment. 14A is a cross-sectional view taken along line GG shown in FIG. 13A corresponding to FIG. Moreover, FIG.14 (b) is sectional drawing along the HH line shown in FIG.13 (d) corresponding to FIG.9 (b).

  Here, the top drive unit 180 rotates based on the rotation center axis (the center axis of the through-hole 162a) based on a drive control signal from a control device (not shown). A description will be given of how the top member 200 as a magnetic body is moved by a magnetic force by moving the first magnetic body 191, the second magnetic body 192, and the third magnetic body 193. In the present embodiment, magnets (permanent magnets) are used as the first magnetic body 191, the second magnetic body 192, and the third magnetic body 193 on the top drive unit 180 side, and a metal is used as the top member 200. As a result, a mutual pulling force acts between the first magnetic body 191, the second magnetic body 192, the third magnetic body 193, and the top member 200 on the top drive unit 180 side.

  First, as shown in FIG. 13A, a state where the top member 200 is located at an intermediate position of the merging supply path 164 in the first direction is considered. This state is caused by positioning the first magnetic body 191 or the third magnetic body 193 on the side of the top drive unit 180 in the center with respect to the merge supply path 164 by the rotation of the top drive unit 180. In this case, the magnetic force between the first magnetic body 191 or the third magnetic body 193 on the top drive unit 180 side and the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 is affected, and the convex of the top member 200 is affected. The portion 202 is stationary at the center of the merging supply path 164 while facing the front (−Y direction side). Then, the first magnetic body 191 or the third magnetic body 193 on the top drive unit 180 side is arranged at a position overlapping the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 in a front view.

  That is, the convex part 202 of the top member 200 is disposed at a position separated from the third opening 167 (see FIG. 14A). As a result, the third opening 167 is opened. Further, since the top member 200 is positioned at the intermediate position of the merging supply path 164 in the first direction, both the first opening 165 and the second opening 166 are opened. Therefore, both the first supply path 131a and the second supply path 132a are in a mode of communicating with the head side supply path 133a (corresponding to the first mode described above).

  The first mode does not necessarily occur when the top member 200 is positioned at the intermediate position of the merging supply path 164 in the first direction. For example, it occurs even when the top member 200 is slightly shifted in the X direction from the intermediate position of the merge supply path 164 in the first direction. That is, in the first mode, the convex portion 202 of the piece member 200 is disposed at a position separated from the third opening portion, and both ends of the piece member 200 are both the first opening portion 165 and the second opening portion 166. It occurs when it is separated from a predetermined distance (so that liquid can be supplied).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 13B, a state in which the top member 200 is positioned on the −X direction side of the merge supply path 164 in the first direction is considered. In this state, the first magnetic body 191 or the third magnetic body 193 (here, the first magnetic body 191) on the top driving section 180 side is moved in the −X direction with respect to the merge supply path 164 by the rotation of the top driving section 180. Caused by positioning to the side. In this case, the magnetic force between the first magnetic body 191 on the top drive unit 180 side and the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 is affected, and the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 is in front (− The frame member 200 is stationary with one end (the end on the −X direction side) in contact with the first opening 165 while facing the Y direction.

  Even in this state, the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 is disposed at a position separated from the third opening 167. As a result, the third opening 167 is opened. Further, when the top member 200 is positioned on the −X direction side of the merge supply path 164 in the first direction, the first opening 165 is closed and the second opening 166 is opened. Therefore, the second supply path 132a and the head-side supply path 133a are in a communication mode (corresponding to the second mode described above).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 13C, consider a state in which the top member 200 is positioned on the + X direction side of the merging supply path 64 in the first direction. In this state, the first magnetic body 191 or the third magnetic body 193 (here, the first magnetic body 191) on the top drive unit 180 side is moved to the + X direction side with respect to the merge supply path 164 by the rotation of the top drive unit 180. This is caused by positioning the In this case, the magnetic force between the first magnetic body 191 on the top drive unit 180 side and the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 is affected, and the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 is in front (− The other end portion (the end portion on the + X direction side) opposite to the one end portion of the top member 200 is in a state of being in contact with the second opening portion 166, while facing the Y direction side).

  Even in this state, the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 is disposed at a position separated from the third opening 167. As a result, the third opening 167 is opened. Further, since the top member 200 is positioned on the + X direction side of the merge supply path 164 in the first direction, the first opening 165 is opened and the second opening 166 is closed. Therefore, the first supply path 131a and the head-side supply path 133a are in a communication mode (corresponding to the third mode described above).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 13 (d), consider a state in which the top member 200 rotates inside the merge supply path 164 with the first direction as the central axis. This state is generated by positioning the second magnetic body 192 on the top drive unit 180 side at the center with respect to the merging supply path 64 by the rotation of the top drive unit 180. In this case, the magnetic force between the second magnetic body 192 on the top drive unit 180 side and the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 is affected, and the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 is in front (− From the state facing (Y direction side) to the state inclined toward the −Z direction side, it stops at the center of the merged supply path 164. This is because the distance L5 between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 180 and the center of the second magnetic body 192 is the distance between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 180 and the center of the first magnetic body 191. This is because it is longer than L4 (L5> L4).

  That is, the convex portion 202 of the top member 100 is disposed at a position where the convex portion 202 contacts the third opening 167. As a result, the third opening 167 is closed. Further, since the top member 200 is positioned at the intermediate position of the merging supply path 164 in the first direction, both the first opening 165 and the second opening 166 are opened. Therefore, the first supply path 131a and the second supply path 132a both communicate with each other (not communicate with the head-side supply path 133a) (corresponding to the above-described fourth mode).

  The fourth mode does not necessarily occur when the top member 200 is positioned at the intermediate position of the merging supply path 164 in the first direction. For example, it occurs even when the top member 200 is slightly shifted in the X direction from the intermediate position of the merge supply path 164 in the first direction. That is, the fourth mode occurs when the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 is disposed at a position where the convex portion 202 contacts the third opening 167.

  According to the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the present embodiment, the head-side supply path 133a is closed by the convex portion 202 formed on the piece member 200 coming into contact with the head-side supply path 133a as the piece member 200 moves. Further, the head-side supply path 133a is opened by separating the convex portion 202 of the top member 200 from the head-side supply path 133a. Therefore, since the head side supply path 133a can be closed or opened with only one piece member 200, the number of parts can be reduced.

  In the above-described embodiment, forces that are attracted to each other act between the first magnetic body, the second magnetic body, and the third magnetic body on the top drive unit side and the magnetic body on the top member side. However, it is not limited to this. For example, a force that repels each other may act between the first magnetic body, the second magnetic body, and the third magnetic body on the top drive unit side and the magnetic body on the top member side. Hereinafter, a configuration different from the above embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

(Third embodiment)
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a top drive unit of the switching device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 15 (a) is a front view showing a frame driving unit corresponding to FIG. 12 (a). FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II shown in FIG. 15A corresponding to FIG. Further, in FIG. 15A, reference numeral L7 is a distance between a rotation center axis of the top drive unit 280 (a central axis of a through hole 262a described later) and the center of the first magnetic body 291 and reference numeral L8 is a top drive. A distance between the rotation center axis of the part 280 and the center of the second magnetic body 292, and a symbol L9 is a distance between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 280 and the center of the third magnetic body 293.

  The switching device 260 according to the present embodiment uses a magnet (for example, a permanent magnet) having a first magnetic pole (for example, an S pole) as the first magnetic body 291 and the third magnetic body 293 on the top drive unit 280 side, and uses the second magnetic material. A magnet (for example, a permanent magnet) having a second magnetic pole (for example, N pole) having a different polarity from the first magnetic pole is used as the body 292, and a magnet having an N pole having the same polarity as the second magnetic pole is used for the coma member 300 as the magnetic body. (For example, a permanent magnet) is used. As a result, the forces acting on each other between the first magnetic body 291 and the third magnetic body 293 on the top driving unit 280 side and the top member 300 act, and the second magnetic body 292 on the top driving unit 280 side and the top magnetic member 290 side. The switching device 160 according to the second embodiment is different from the switching device 160 according to the second embodiment in that forces that mutually repel are applied to the member 300.

  As shown in FIG. 15, a support portion 262 is provided at the center of the upper surface of the main body portion 261 so as to movably support the top drive portion 280. The support portion 262 is formed with a circular through hole 262a that is the center of rotation of the top drive portion 280 when viewed from the front.

  The top drive unit 280 includes a fan-shaped pendulum member 281 in front view and a rectangular magnetic body (first magnetic body 291, second magnetic body 292, and third magnetic body 293) disposed on the pendulum member 281. Have. A columnar protrusion 282 is formed on the top of the pendulum member 281. The top drive unit 280 is configured such that the projection 282 is inserted into the through hole 262a of the support unit 262, so that the rotation center axis (center axis of the through hole 262a) is based on a drive control signal from a control device (not shown). It is designed to rotate with reference to.

  In the present embodiment, a magnet (for example, a permanent magnet) having a first magnetic pole (for example, an S pole) is used as the first magnetic body 291 and the third magnetic body 293 on the top drive unit 280 side, and the first magnetic body 292 is the first. A magnet (for example, a permanent magnet) having a second magnetic pole different from the magnetic pole (for example, N pole) is used, while a magnet (for example, permanent) having an N pole having the same polarity as the second magnetic pole is used for the top member 300 as a magnetic body. Magnet). As a result, the forces acting on each other between the first magnetic body 291 and the third magnetic body 293 on the top driving unit 280 side and the top member 300 act, and the second magnetic body 292 on the top driving unit 280 side and the top magnetic member 290 side. Between the member 300, a force that opposes each other is applied.

  The top member 300 is a cylinder that extends in the first direction and has a convex portion 302 formed in a part of the extending direction, like the top member 200 described above. The top member 300 is entirely magnetic. Specifically, the top member 300 includes a top member main body 301 and a convex portion 302 erected at the center of the top member main body 301. The size of the convex portion 302 is smaller than the size of the concave portion 268 formed in the merging supply path 264 and larger than the size of the third opening 267.

  The first magnetic body 291, the second magnetic body 292, and the third magnetic body 293 are embedded and fixed on the back surface (surface on the + Y direction side) of the pendulum member 281. Accordingly, the first magnetic body 291, the second magnetic body 292, and the third magnetic body 293 are moved according to the rotation of the pendulum member 281.

  When the first magnetic body 291, the second magnetic body 292, and the third magnetic body 293 are positioned in the center with respect to the merging supply path 264 by the rotation of the top driving section 280, the top member 300 is viewed from the front. It arrange | positions in the position which overlaps with the convex part 302 of. Further, a distance L7 between the rotation center axis of the top driving unit 280 and the center of the first magnetic body 291; a distance L8 between the rotation center axis of the main driving unit 280 and the center of the second magnetic body 292; The distance L9 between the rotation center axis of the top drive unit 280 and the center of the third magnetic body 293 is substantially the same (L7≈L8≈L9). Among these, the 1st magnetic body 291 and the 3rd magnetic body 293 move the top member 300 as a magnetic body to a 1st direction (X direction) with a magnetic force. On the other hand, the second magnetic body 292 moves the top member 300 as a magnetic body in the second direction (rotation direction with the first direction as the central axis) by a magnetic force (a force that repels each other).

  Further, the first magnetic body 291 has a rectangular shape having a length in the normal direction of the rotation direction when viewed from the front. As a result, even when the first magnetic body 291 is separated from the central portion with respect to the merging supply path 264 by the rotation of the top driving unit 280, the magnetic force (with each other) is applied to the top member 300 as the magnetic body. Can be applied). Further, the second magnetic body 292 and the third magnetic body 293 have a rectangular shape having a length in the tangential direction of the rotation direction when viewed from the front.

Next, how the frame member 300 moves will be described.
The state corresponding to the first mode described above is that the first magnetic body 291 or the third magnetic body 293 on the top drive unit 280 side is positioned at the center with respect to the merge supply path 264 by the rotation of the top drive unit 280. Caused by In this case, the magnetic force between the first magnetic body 291 or the third magnetic body 293 on the top driving unit 280 side and the convex portion 302 of the top member 300 is affected, and the convexity of the top member 300 is increased. The portion 302 is stationary at the central portion of the merging supply path 264 while being inclined toward the −Y direction. That is, the convex portion 302 of the top member 300 is disposed at a position separated from the third opening 267. As a result, the third opening 267 is opened. Further, both the first opening and the second opening (not shown) are opened, and both the first supply path and the second supply path communicate with the head side supply path 233a.

  In the state corresponding to the second mode described above, the first magnetic body 291 or the third magnetic body 293 (here, the first magnetic body 291) on the side of the top drive unit 280 is joined and supplied by the rotation of the top drive unit 280. This is caused by being positioned on the −X direction side with respect to the path 264. In this case, the magnetic force between the first magnetic body 291 on the top drive unit 280 side and the convex portion 302 of the top member 300 is affected, and the convex portion 302 of the top member 300 becomes in the −Y direction. The frame member 300 is stationary in a state where one end portion (the end portion on the −X direction side) of the top member 300 is in contact with the first opening portion while being inclined to the side. Even in this state, the convex portion 302 of the top member 300 is disposed at a position separated from the third opening 267. As a result, the third opening 267 is opened. In addition, the top member 300 is positioned on the −X direction side of the merge supply path 264 in the first direction, whereby the first opening is closed and the second opening is opened. Therefore, the second supply path and the head-side supply path 233a are in a communication mode.

  The state corresponding to the third mode described above is that the first magnetic body 291 or the third magnetic body 293 (here, the first magnetic body 291) on the side of the top drive unit 280 is joined and supplied by the rotation of the top drive unit 280. This is caused by being positioned on the + X direction side with respect to the path 264. In this case, the magnetic force between the first magnetic body 291 on the top drive unit 280 side and the convex portion 302 of the top member 300 is affected, and the convex portion 302 of the top member 300 becomes in the −Y direction. While still inclined to the side, the other end portion (the end portion on the + X direction side) opposite to the one end portion of the top member 300 is brought into a stationary state in contact with the second opening. Even in this state, the convex portion 302 of the top member 300 is disposed at a position separated from the third opening 267. As a result, the third opening 267 is opened. Further, when the top member 300 is positioned on the + X direction side of the merge supply path 264 in the first direction, the first opening is opened and the second opening is closed. Therefore, the first supply path and the head-side supply path 233a are in communication mode.

  The state corresponding to the above-described fourth mode is caused by positioning the second magnetic body 292 on the top drive unit 280 side in the center with respect to the merge supply path 264 by the rotation of the top drive unit 180. In this case, the magnetic force between the second magnetic body 292 on the top drive unit 280 side and the convex portion 302 of the top member 300 is affected, and the convex portion 302 of the top member 300 becomes in the −Y direction. From the state inclined to the side, the state is directed to the −Z direction side, and stops at the center of the merge supply path 264. That is, the convex portion 302 of the top member 300 is disposed at a position where the convex portion 302 contacts the third opening 267 in a front view. Thereby, the 3rd opening part 267 is obstruct | occluded. Further, when the top member 300 is located at the intermediate position of the merge supply path 264 in the first direction, both the first opening and the second opening are opened. Therefore, the mode is such that both the first supply path and the second supply path communicate (not communicate with the head-side supply path 233a).

  In the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which a plurality of magnetic bodies (in the above-described embodiment, three of the first magnetic body, the second magnetic body, and the third magnetic body) are disposed on the side of the top drive unit. However, it is not limited to this. Hereinafter, a configuration different from the above embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

(Fourth embodiment)
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a top drive unit of the switching device according to the fourth embodiment. In FIG. 16, for convenience, the main body portion, the partition portion, and the top drive portion of the switching device are illustrated, and other illustrations are omitted. In the switching device 360 according to the present embodiment, the top drive unit 80 according to the first embodiment is that the top drive unit is a magnetic body, that is, one magnetic body is disposed on the side of the top drive unit. And different.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the top drive unit 380 has a rectangular shape when viewed from the front, and is vertically and horizontally (+ Z direction, −Z direction, + X direction, and −X direction) above the partition unit 375 by a drive device (not shown). It is designed to move in each direction.

  For example, let us consider a case where forces are generated between the piece driving unit 380 as a magnetic body and a piece member (not shown) inside the main body 361. In this case, the first mode can be generated by disposing the top drive unit 380 at an initial position (a central portion with respect to a merging supply path not shown). In addition, the second mode can be generated by moving the frame driving unit 380 in the −X direction. Further, the third mode can be generated by moving the frame driving unit 380 in the + X direction. The fourth mode can be generated by moving the frame driving unit 380 in the + Z direction or the −Z direction.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the magnetic body is arranged on the side of the piece driving unit has been described, but the configuration is not limited thereto. Hereinafter, a configuration different from the above embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

(Fifth embodiment)
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a top drive unit of the switching device 460 according to the fifth embodiment. In FIG. 17, for convenience, the main body portion, the partition portion, and the top drive portion of the switching device are illustrated, and other illustrations are omitted. The switching device 460 according to the present embodiment is different from the top drive unit 80 according to the first embodiment in that the top drive unit includes a plurality of magnetic force generators arranged in the partition unit 475.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the top drive unit 480 includes magnetic force generators 481 to 484 that receive an electric signal from a transmitter (not shown) that transmits an electric signal and generate a magnetic force. . The first magnetic force generator 481 is disposed at the central portion on the partition portion 475 with respect to the main body portion 461. The second magnetic force generator 482 is disposed on the + Z direction side on the partition portion 475 with respect to the main body portion 461. The third magnetic force generator 483 is disposed on the + X direction side on the partition portion 475 with respect to the main body portion 461. The fourth magnetic force generator 484 is arranged on the −X direction side on the partition portion 475 with respect to the main body portion 461.

  For example, let us consider a case where forces are generated between a magnetic force generator that generates a magnetic force and a top member (not shown) inside the main body 461. In this case, the first mode can be generated by transmitting an electric signal from the transmitter toward the first magnetic force generator 481. The second mode can be generated by transmitting an electric signal from the transmitter toward the fourth magnetic force generator 484. The third mode can be generated by transmitting an electrical signal from the transmitter toward the third magnetic force generator 483. The fourth mode can be generated by transmitting an electrical signal from the transmitter toward the second magnetic force generator 482.

  In the present embodiment, the second magnetic force generator 482 is arranged on the + Z direction side on the partition part 475 with respect to the main body part 461, but is not limited thereto. For example, the second magnetic force generator 482 may be arranged on the −Z direction side on the partition portion 475 with respect to the main body portion 461.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Liquid ejecting apparatus, 18 ... Liquid ejecting head, 31a, 131a ... 1st supply path, 32a, 132a ... 2nd supply path, 33a, 133a, 233a ... Head side supply path, 64, 164, 264 ... Merge supply path 80, 180, 280, 380... Frame drive unit, 100, 200, 300... Frame member, 103... Groove, 202, 302.

Claims (8)

A liquid ejecting head for ejecting liquid;
A first supply path for supplying a first liquid;
A second supply path for supplying a second liquid;
A merged supply path communicating with the first supply path and the second supply path;
A head side supply path that communicates with the merge supply path and supplies liquid to the liquid jet head;
A coma member that is movably accommodated in the confluence supply path, and closes or opens the first supply path, the second supply path, and the head side supply path by the movement;
A top drive unit disposed outside the merge supply path to move the top member by magnetic force;
A liquid ejecting apparatus comprising: The first supply path and the second supply path are connected to a position facing the merge supply path in the first direction,
2. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein one of the first supply path and the second supply path is closed by the movement of the top member in the first direction.   3. The liquid ejection according to claim 2, wherein both the first supply path and the second supply path are opened by movement of the top member to an intermediate position of the merged supply path in the first direction. apparatus. The head side supply path is connected to the second supply direction different from the first direction with respect to the merge supply path,
4. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the head side supply path is closed or opened by the movement of the top member in the second direction. 5.   The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the second direction is a rotation direction with the first direction as a central axis.   The liquid according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the top member is a column that extends in the first direction and has a groove formed in the extending direction over the entire length thereof. Injection device.   The liquid according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the top member is a column that extends in the first direction and has a convex portion formed in a part of the extending direction. Injection device. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the piece driving unit includes a pendulum member and a magnetic body disposed on the pendulum member.

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