JP2014210415A - Head module replacement auxiliary tool - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a head module replacement auxiliary tool allowing a replacing work of a head module to be easily performed.SOLUTION: When replacing head modules 210, a head module replacement auxiliary tool 10 is attached to a base frame 212 to which the head modules 210 are attached. When the head module replacement auxiliary tool 10 is attached to the base frame 212, nozzle faces 222 of the head modules 210 which are arranged adjacent at the two sides of the head modules 210 to be replaced, are covered with a cover 14 which is provided in the head module replacement auxiliary tool 10. During a replacement work, therefore, the head module or the like to be replaced can be prevented from contacting with the nozzle faces 222 of the adjoining head modules 210, thereby to improve the workability of the replacement.

Description

  The present invention relates to a head module replacement aid that assists in mounting a head module in an inkjet head configured by connecting a plurality of head modules.

  A method of manufacturing a long inkjet head by preparing a plurality of standardized short inkjet heads (head modules) and connecting them together is known (for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

  The ink jet head manufactured in this way has an advantage that it can be economically operated because it has a good yield and can be replaced in units of head modules.

  By the way, in this type of inkjet head, each head module is generally attached to a base frame and integrated with each other.

  Therefore, when replacing the head module, it is necessary to remove the head module to be replaced from the base frame and reattach the new head module to the original position from which it was removed.

JP 2012-930 A JP 2008-194972 A

  However, if the replacement operation of the head module is not performed carefully, there is a problem that the head module to be replaced comes into contact with the nozzle surface of the adjacent head module and damages the head module. In particular, in the case of an inkjet head in which head modules are arranged in a straight line, the clearance between adjacent head modules is narrow, and therefore, if the replacement operation is not performed with great care, the head modules easily come into contact with each other. There was a problem. Further, if the head module itself to be replaced is not handled carefully, there is a problem in that it is damaged due to contact with other parts. For this reason, the replacement work has taken a great deal of labor and time.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a head module replacement aid that can easily perform a head module replacement operation.

  Means for solving the problems are as follows.

  The first aspect includes a linear base frame, a plurality of head module support means provided at regular intervals along the longitudinal direction of the base frame, and a nozzle surface on which a large number of nozzles are arranged. A plurality of head modules that are detachably attached to the base frame via the means, and the plurality of head modules are attached to the base frame via the head module support means, so that the nozzle surfaces of the head modules are arranged in a row. In a connected inkjet head, a head module replacement assisting tool for assisting head module replacement work, an auxiliary tool body that is detachably attached to a base frame, and a head module that is provided in the assisting tool body and is to be replaced Of the head module placed on both sides of A pair of covers for covering the nozzle surface, a head module replacement aid comprising a.

  According to this aspect, by attaching the auxiliary tool body to the base frame, the nozzle surfaces of the head modules arranged on both sides of the head module to be replaced are covered with the cover. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the head module to be exchanged from coming into contact with the nozzle surfaces of these head modules during the exchange work, and the workability of the exchange can be improved.

  A 2nd aspect is an aspect by which a pair of cover is slidably provided in an auxiliary tool main body in the head module exchange auxiliary tool of a 1st aspect.

  According to this aspect, the cover is slidably provided. Thereby, the position of the cover can be adjusted. Moreover, a cover can be opened and closed as needed.

  According to a third aspect, in the head module replacement assisting tool according to the second aspect, urging means for urging the pair of covers in a direction approaching each other, and a stopper for locking the pair of covers at the protection position are further provided. The pair of covers are arranged in positions that cover the edge portions of the nozzle surfaces of the head modules arranged on both sides of the head module to be replaced by being located at the protection position.

  According to this aspect, the cover is urged by the urging means so that the cover is always located at the protection position in normal times. The cover is disposed at a position that covers the edge portions of the nozzle surface of the head module disposed on both sides of the head module to be replaced by being positioned at the protection position. Thereby, it can prevent effectively that the head module made into replacement | exchange object contacts the edge part of the nozzle surface of the head module arrange | positioned at the both sides during replacement | exchange operation | work.

  A fourth aspect is the head module replacement assisting tool of the third aspect, further comprising a protective member that is detachably attached to the head module to be replaced and that protects the nozzle surface of the head module to be replaced. It is.

  According to this aspect, when performing the replacement work, the protective member that protects the nozzle surface of the head module to be replaced is attached to the head module to be replaced. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the nozzle surface of the head module itself to be replaced from being damaged during the replacement work.

  According to a fifth aspect, in the head module replacement aid of the fourth aspect, a module guide part provided in the head module and a base frame are engaged with the module guide part so that the head module is supported by the head module support means. And a module guide means for guiding.

  According to a fifth aspect, in the head module replacement aid of the fourth aspect, a module guide part provided in the head module and a base frame are engaged with the module guide part so that the head module is supported by the head module support means. And a module guide means for guiding.

  According to this aspect, the base frame is provided with the module guide means for guiding the head module to the head module support means so that the head module can be supported by the head module support means. Thereby, the alignment of the head module with respect to the head module support means can be facilitated, and the replacement work of the head module can be further facilitated. Further, it is possible to prevent the head module to be replaced from coming into contact with the adjacent head module.

  According to a sixth aspect, in the head module replacement assisting device according to the fifth aspect, the protection member guide portion provided in the protection member and the auxiliary device body are provided, and the protection member is attached by engaging with the protection member guide portion. And a protection member guide means for guiding the module guide portion of the head module to the module guide means.

  According to this aspect, the auxiliary member main body is provided with the protective member guide means for guiding the module guide portion to the module guide means so that the module guide portion can be guided by the module guide means. Thereby, the alignment of the module guide portion with respect to the module guide means can be facilitated, and the replacement operation of the head module can be further facilitated. Further, it is possible to prevent the head module to be replaced from coming into contact with the adjacent head module.

  A seventh aspect further includes a pair of cams provided in the protection member and a cam follower provided in the pair of covers in the head module replacement aid of the sixth aspect, wherein the pair of cams is a head module support means. This is a mode in which the pair of covers are opened and closed by abutting and separating from the cam follower in conjunction with the operation of attaching or removing the head module to and from the cam follower.

  According to this aspect, the cover is opened and closed in conjunction with the operation of attaching or removing the head module to or from the head module support means. Thereby, the opening / closing operation of the cover can be automatically performed, and the replacement operation of the head module can be further facilitated.

  An eighth aspect further includes drive means for moving the pair of covers between the first position and the second position in the head module replacement assisting tool of the second aspect, Is located at a position that covers the edge portion of the nozzle surface of the head module disposed on both sides of the head module to be replaced, and is positioned at the second position to be the head to be replaced. It is an aspect arrange | positioned in the position which exposes the edge part of the nozzle surface of the head module arrange | positioned on both sides of a module.

  According to this aspect, the cover is automatically opened and closed. Thereby, it can prevent effectively that the head module made into replacement | exchange object contacts the edge part of the nozzle surface of the head module arrange | positioned at the both sides during replacement | exchange operation | work.

  According to a ninth aspect, in the head module replacement auxiliary tool according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, auxiliary tool main body fixing means for fixing the auxiliary tool main body to the base frame, and the base frame according to the mounting interval of the head module A plurality of auxiliary tool mounting portions, and the auxiliary tool mounting portion to which the auxiliary tool main body is positioned and mounted via the auxiliary tool main body fixing means.

  According to this aspect, by attaching the auxiliary tool body to the base frame via the auxiliary tool body fixing means, the auxiliary tool body can be positioned and attached to the base frame. As a result, it is not necessary to align the cover, and the head module can be replaced more easily.

  According to a tenth aspect, in the head module replacement assisting tool according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, the head module includes an L-shaped bracket including a horizontal portion and a vertical portion, and the nozzle surface is disposed in the horizontal portion. When the vertical portions are supported by the head module support means and attached to the base frame, the vertical portions are alternately arranged on the base frame between the adjacent head modules.

  According to this aspect, the head module includes the L-shaped bracket including the horizontal portion and the vertical portion, and is attached to the base frame via the vertical portion. At this time, the vertical portions are alternately arranged between the adjacent head modules and attached to the base frame. Thereby, the installation length of an adjacent head module support means can be earned, and the rotation angle in the surface of a perpendicular | vertical part can be controlled more.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to easily replace the head module.

Bottom view of inkjet head An enlarged view of a part of FIG. Front view showing the structure of the main part of an inkjet head Side view showing structure of main part of inkjet head Head module front view Rear view of the head module Side sectional view of the head module Front view showing the structure of the main part of the base frame Side sectional view showing the structure of the main part of the base frame Illustration of how to install the head module Illustration of how to install the head module Explanatory drawing of head module positioning method Bottom view of inkjet head with head module replacement aid attached 14-14 sectional view (side sectional view) of FIG. 15-15 sectional view of FIG. 13 (front sectional view) Rear view of inkjet head with head module replacement aid attached Bottom view of the head module replacement aid when the cover is opened 18-18 sectional view of FIG. Explanatory drawing of the mounting method of the head module using the head module mounting aid Explanatory drawing of the mounting method of the head module using the head module mounting aid Front view showing the configuration of the protective cover Side sectional view showing the configuration of the protective cover Bottom view showing a second embodiment of a head module replacement aid 24-24 sectional view of FIG. 25-25 sectional view of FIG. Explanatory drawing of the attachment method of the head module using the head module attachment auxiliary tool of 2nd Embodiment. Explanatory drawing of the attachment method of the head module using the head module attachment auxiliary tool of 2nd Embodiment. Rear view showing another example of a mechanism for automatically opening and closing the cover Bottom view of the head module replacement aid when the protective cover is guided by the guide rod and guide hole 30-30 sectional view of FIG. Top view of the protective cover when the protective cover is guided by the guide rod and guide hole Front view of the protective cover when the protective cover is guided by the guide rod and guide hole Illustration of the action of the guide mechanism of the protective cover using the guide rod and guide hole

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  First, the configuration of an inkjet head to which the present invention is applied will be described.

<Inkjet head configuration>
FIG. 1 is a bottom view of the inkjet head. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a part of FIG. FIG. 3 is a front view showing the structure of the main part of the inkjet head. FIG. 4 is a side view showing the structure of the main part of the inkjet head.

  The inkjet head 200 to which the present invention is applied is configured by connecting a plurality of head modules 210 in a straight line. Each head module 210 is connected to the base frame 212 to be connected linearly.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the head module 210 and the base frame 212 will be described.

  In the following, it is assumed that the X axis, the Y axis, and the Z axis are three orthogonal axes, and the head module 210 is disposed along the X axis. In addition, the nozzle surface of the inkjet head 200 is arranged along the XY plane (a plane defined by the X axis and the Y axis). For the sake of convenience, the following description will be given on the assumption that the XY plane is a horizontal plane and the XZ plane and the YZ plane are vertical planes.

<Head module>
The head module 210 is a standardized short inkjet head. Therefore, the structure of each head module 210 is the same.

  FIG. 5 is a front view of the head module, FIG. 6 is a rear view of the head module, and FIG. 7 is a side partial sectional view of the head module.

  The head module 210 includes a head 214 that ejects ink and a bracket 216 that attaches the head 214 to the base frame 212.

  The head 214 includes a head main body 218 and an electrical / piping section 220.

  The head main body 218 has a rectangular plate shape as a whole, and has a nozzle surface 222 on the lower surface portion. The nozzle surface 222 has a belt-like nozzle region 222A at the center. The nozzle region 222A is provided in parallel with the X axis with a certain width. The nozzle N is disposed in the nozzle region 222A.

  In the inkjet head 200 of this example, as shown in FIG. 2, nozzles N are arranged in a two-dimensional matrix on the nozzle surface 222 of each head module 210. Specifically, the nozzles N are arranged at a constant pitch in the X-axis direction and are arranged at a constant pitch in a direction inclined by a predetermined angle with respect to the X-axis. By arranging the nozzles N in this way, the substantial interval between the nozzles N projected in the X-axis direction can be reduced.

  When the nozzles N are arranged in a two-dimensional matrix in this way, the substantial arrangement direction of the nozzles N is the X-axis direction.

  The electrical / pipe section 220 is an assembly of pipes, circuit boards, and the like, and is provided on the top of the head body 218. From the electrical equipment / pipe section 220, a pipe 228 and a flexible electric cable (including a flexible board) 230 are drawn out.

  The bracket 216 has an L shape and has a horizontal portion 224 and a vertical portion 226.

  The horizontal portion 224 functions as a mounting portion for the head 214, and the vertical portion 226 functions as a mounting portion for the base frame 212.

  The horizontal portion 224 has a rectangular plate shape and has an outer shape corresponding to the outer shape of the head body 218. The head 214 is attached to the bracket 216 by attaching the head main body 218 to the horizontal portion 224. At this time, the upper surface portion of the head main body 218 is attached to the lower surface portion of the horizontal portion 224 and is integrated with the horizontal portion 224. The horizontal portion 224 is provided with an opening 224A at the center thereof, and the electrical / piping portion 220 of the head 214 is disposed above the horizontal portion 224 through the opening 224A.

  The vertical part 226 is joined to one end of the horizontal part 224 in a vertical posture and integrated with the horizontal part 224. The vertical portion 226 includes a vertical portion main body 226A, a pair of first overhang portions 226B, and a pair of second overhang portions 226C.

  The vertical portion main body 226 </ b> A has a rectangular plate shape and has substantially the same width as the horizontal portion 224. The pair of first projecting portions 226B are provided so as to project in the X-axis direction from both sides of the vertical portion main body 226A. Further, the pair of second overhang portions 226C are provided so as to further protrude in the X-axis direction from the pair of first overhang portions 226B.

  The vertical portion 226 includes a head module Y-axis positioning means that serves as a reference for positioning in the Y-axis direction when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, and a head module Z-axis positioning that serves as a reference for positioning in the Z-axis direction. Means. In addition, a part of the X-axis direction mounting position adjusting means for finely adjusting the mounting position in the X-axis direction is provided.

  The head module Y-axis direction positioning means includes two head module Y-axis direction fixed contact members 234 that constitute the head module Y-axis direction positioning member and one head module Y-axis direction that also constitutes the head module Y-axis direction positioning member. And a movable contact member 236.

  The two head module Y-axis direction fixed contact members 234 are provided on the second overhanging portion 226 </ b> C of the vertical portion 226. The head module Y-axis direction fixed contact member 234 is formed of a hard sphere (a rigid sphere). The head module Y-axis direction fixed contact member 234 is inserted into a hole (not shown) formed in the second overhang portion 226C, and the inner surface of the second overhang portion 226C (the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212). (Sometimes a surface facing the base frame 212), a part of which protrudes a predetermined amount.

  On the other hand, the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236 is provided in the vertical portion main body 226 </ b> A of the vertical portion 226. The head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236 is formed of a rigid sphere, and is inserted into the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member insertion hole 238 formed in the vertical part body 226A, and is provided in the vertical part body 226A. The head module Y-axis direction movable contact member insertion hole 238 is formed along the Y-axis direction and is formed to penetrate from the outer surface to the inner surface of the vertical portion main body 226A. The head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236 is inserted into the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member insertion hole 238 so as to protrude from the inner surface of the vertical portion main body 226A. The head module Y-axis direction movable contact member insertion hole 238 is formed by reducing the diameter of the inner surface side of the vertical portion main body 226A so that the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236 does not fall off.

  The head module Y-axis direction movable contact member insertion hole 238 is formed by a screw hole, and the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member position adjusting screw 240 is screwed together. The head module Y-axis direction movable contact member position adjusting screw 240 is constituted by a so-called potato screw (a screw head having the same size as the screw portion). By adjusting the screwing amount of the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member position adjusting screw 240, the projection amount of the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236 from the inner surface of the vertical portion main body 226A is adjusted.

  As will be described later, the head module Y-axis direction fixed contact member 234 and the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236 are fixed contact bases provided on the base frame 212 side when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212. The frame Y-axis direction positioning member 290 and the movable contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning member 292 are in contact with each other. As a result, the head module 210 is positioned in the Y-axis direction with respect to the base frame 212.

  The head module Z-axis direction positioning means is composed of a pair of head module Z-axis direction contact members 242 constituting a head module Z-axis direction positioning member.

  The pair of head module Z-axis direction contact members 242 are provided on the first overhanging portion 226 </ b> B of the vertical portion 226. The head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 is formed of a hard sphere. The head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 is inserted into the head module Z-axis direction contact member insertion hole 244 formed in the first overhang portion 226B, and is provided in the first overhang portion 226B. The head module Z-axis direction contact member insertion hole 244 is formed along the Z-axis direction and is formed so as to penetrate from the lower surface to the upper surface of the first projecting portion 226B. The head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 is inserted into the head module Z-axis direction contact member insertion hole 244, and a part of the head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 is provided so as to protrude from the upper surface of the first overhanging portion 226B. The head module Z-axis direction contact member insertion hole 244 is formed by reducing the diameter of the upper surface of the first overhanging portion 226B so that the head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 does not fall off.

  The head module Z-axis direction contact member insertion hole 244 is constituted by a screw hole. A head module Z-axis direction contact member position adjusting screw 246 is screwed into the head module Z-axis direction contact member insertion hole 244. The head module Z-axis direction contact member position adjusting screw 246 is constituted by a so-called potato screw. By adjusting the screwing amount of the head module Z-axis direction contact member position adjusting screw 246, the protruding amount from the upper surface of the first overhanging portion 226B of the head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 is adjusted.

  As will be described later, the head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 comes into contact with a base frame Z-axis direction contact member 294 provided on the base frame 212 side when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212. As a result, the head module 210 is positioned in the Z-axis direction with respect to the base frame 212.

  The pair of head modules Z-axis direction contact members 242 are set so that the installation interval (X-axis direction installation interval) is longer than the print area width of the head 214 (total nozzle row length). It is preferable. Thereby, the stability at the time of sitting increases and the positioning accuracy in the Z-axis direction can be improved.

  Similarly, the installation interval of the pair of head modules Y-axis direction fixed contact members 234 (the installation interval in the X-axis direction) is longer than the print area width of the head 214 (the length of the entire nozzle row). It is preferable to set so that Thereby, the stability at the time of sitting increases and the positioning accuracy in the Y-axis direction can be improved.

  The X-axis direction mounting position adjusting means constituting the mounting position adjusting means mainly includes an eccentric roller 248, a plunger 250, and an X-axis direction positioning reference pin 296. The eccentric roller 248 and the plunger 250 are provided in the head module 210, and the X-axis direction reference pin 296 is provided in the base frame 212.

  The eccentric roller 248 and the plunger 250 are disposed on the inner surface side of the vertical portion main body 226A. The eccentric roller 248 and the plunger 250 are arranged to face each other with a constant interval.

  The eccentric roller 248 includes a shaft portion 248A and a roller portion 248B. The shaft portion 248A functions as a rotation shaft for rotating the roller portion 248B, and is eccentrically connected to the roller portion 248B. For this reason, when the shaft portion 248A is rotated, the roller portion 248B is eccentrically rotated.

  The shaft portion 248A of the eccentric roller 248 is constituted by a male screw. The shaft portion 248A is inserted into the eccentric roller mounting hole 252 of the vertical portion main body 226A. The eccentric roller mounting hole 252 is a screw hole and is formed in parallel with the Y-axis direction. The eccentric roller mounting hole 252 is formed to penetrate from the outer surface side to the inner surface side of the vertical portion main body 226A. The eccentric roller 248 is attached to the vertical portion main body 226A by screwing the shaft portion 248A into the eccentric roller attachment hole 252. A groove (+ or − groove) for rotating the shaft portion 248A with a screw driver is formed on the end surface of the shaft portion 248A of the eccentric roller 248. The eccentric roller 248 attached to the vertical portion main body 226A rotates by rotating the shaft portion 248A using a screw driver, whereby the roller portion 248B is eccentric.

  A plate spring 254 is pressed against the roller portion 248B. The leaf spring 254 is disposed on the inner surface side of the vertical portion main body 226A. The leaf spring 254 is brought into contact with the circumferential surface of the roller portion 248B and presses the circumferential surface of the roller portion 248B. The roller portion 248 </ b> B is given a certain resistance to rotation by the leaf spring 254.

  The plunger 250 functions as X-axis direction urging means. The plunger 250 is disposed along the X-axis direction, and the tip (pressing portion) is disposed to face the eccentric roller 248.

  As described above, the eccentric roller 248 and the plunger 250 are arranged to face each other with a constant interval. When the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the X-axis direction reference pin 296 provided on the base frame side is fitted between the eccentric roller 248 and the plunger 250, and is sandwiched between the eccentric roller 248 and the plunger 250. Is done. The plunger 250 presses the X-axis direction positioning reference pin 296 in the X-axis direction. Thereby, the head module 210 is biased in the X-axis direction. When the eccentric roller 248 is rotated in this state, the head module 210 moves in the X-axis direction according to the rotation amount.

  The vertical portion 226 of the bracket 216 is provided with a guide groove 256 that functions as a mounting guide (module guide portion) when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212. The guide groove 256 is provided in the central portion of the vertical portion main body 226A and is formed along the Z axis. Further, the upper end portion is formed so as to open in the upper surface portion of the vertical portion main body 226A.

  In the guide groove 256, a pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 (module guide means) provided on the base frame side is fitted. For this reason, the width of the guide groove 256 is formed to be substantially the same as the width (diameter) of the Y-axis direction guide post 276.

  When the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the Y-axis direction guide post 276 is fitted into the guide groove 256 to restrict the attachment direction, and the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212 in a fixed posture.

  The guide groove 256 is provided with an arc-shaped enlarged diameter portion 256A at the front end portion (lower end portion) and the central portion. When the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, a pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 provided on the base frame side are accommodated in the enlarged diameter portion 256A. Thereby, the head module 210 is supported with respect to the base frame 212 so that the installation position can be finely adjusted in the X-axis direction.

  As described above, the enlarged diameter portion 256A of the guide groove 256 is provided to support the installation position of the head module 210 so as to be finely adjustable in the X-axis direction. Therefore, the enlarged diameter portion 256 </ b> A is arranged corresponding to the Y-axis direction guide post 276 so that when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the Y-axis direction guide post 276 is accommodated at a substantially central position. Placed in.

  In this example, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the enlarged diameter portion 256A is formed so as to form a circle centered on the axis of the Y-axis direction guide post 276. This circle is formed larger than the diameter of the Y-axis direction guide post 276. Thereby, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the head module 210 can be supported so as to be movable within a predetermined range. Further, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the head module 210 can be attached without causing backlash.

  A pair of notches 258A and 258B are formed on the inner wall surface of the guide groove 256. When the bracket 216 is attached to the base frame 212, the pair of notches 258A and 258B are engaged with a locking bar 288 of a Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 provided on the base frame side. The bracket 216 is locked to the base frame 212 when the locking bar 288 of the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is engaged with the notches 258A and 258B. The notches 258A and 258B are formed at positions facing the inner wall surface of the guide groove 256, and are formed with a predetermined depth on the inner surface side and the outer surface side of the vertical portion 226 of the bracket 216, respectively. That is, one notch portion 258A is formed on the outer surface side of the vertical portion 226, and the other notch portion 258B is formed on the inner surface side.

  Furthermore, a magnet 260 for detecting the amount of displacement (movement amount) of the head module 210 when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212 is provided in the vertical portion 226 of the bracket 216. This magnet 260 constitutes a position detecting means together with the magnetic sensor 298 provided on the base frame 212 side. When the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the magnet 260 is disposed to face the magnetic sensor 298 provided on the base frame 212 side.

  The head module 210 is configured as described above.

<base frame>
FIG. 8 is a front view showing the structure of the main part of the base frame. FIG. 9 is a side sectional view showing the structure of the main part of the base frame.

  The base frame 212 mainly includes an upper frame portion 270 and a pair of lower frame portions 272A and 272B.

  The upper frame part 270 has a rectangular plate shape. The upper frame part 270 is disposed horizontally (parallel to the XY plane). The pair of lower frame portions 272A and 272B have a rectangular plate shape. The pair of lower frame parts 272A and 272B are arranged perpendicularly (parallel to the XZ plane) to the lower part of the upper frame part 270 with a constant interval.

  The pair of lower frame portions 272A and 272B function as attachment portions of the head module 210. The head module 210 is alternately attached to the pair of lower frame portions 272A and 272B. That is, if one lower frame portion 272A is a first lower frame (first mounting portion) and the other lower frame portion 272B is a second lower frame (second mounting portion), the first head module 210 is the first head module 210. The second head module 210, which is attached to the lower frame portion 272A and arranged next to the lower frame portion 272A, is attached to the second lower frame portion 272B. The third head module 210 arranged next to the second head module 210 is attached to the first lower frame portion 272A, and the fourth head module arranged next to the second head module 210 is attached to the second lower frame. It is attached to the part 272B. In this manner, the head module 210 is alternately attached to the first lower frame portion 272A and the second lower frame portion 272B. As a result, the vertical portions 226 of the brackets 216 of the head modules 210 are alternately arranged with respect to the base frame 212 between the adjacent head modules 210.

  The base frame 212 is provided with head module support means for supporting the head module 210. The head module support means is prepared for each head module. As described above, since the head module 210 is alternately attached to the pair of lower frame portions 272A and 272B, the head module support means is provided alternately to the pair of lower frame portions 272A and 272B. Therefore, the installation interval (installation interval in the X-axis direction) of the head module support means coincides with the installation interval (installation interval in the X-axis direction) of the head module 210 attached to each lower frame portion 272A, 272B.

  In this way, by using the L-shaped bracket 216 to alternately attach the head modules 210 to the base frame 212, the installation length of the adjacent head module support means can be earned, The rotation angle in the plane of the vertical portion 226 of the bracket 216 can be further restricted.

  The head module support means includes a pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 and a Z-axis direction hanging rod 278.

  The pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 are arranged in parallel in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) with a constant interval. The Y-axis direction guide post 276 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The Y-axis direction guide post 276 has a flange portion 276A at the top. The Y-axis direction guide post 276 is provided so as to protrude from the outer surface of the lower frame portions 272A and 272B, and is disposed in parallel with the Y-axis direction. The width (diameter) of the Y-axis direction guide post 276 is formed substantially the same as the width of the guide groove 256.

  As described above, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the guide groove 256 formed in the vertical portion 226 of the bracket 216 is fitted into the pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 and attached. Since the width (diameter) of the Y-axis direction guide post 276 is formed to be substantially the same as the width of the guide groove 256, it can be attached without rattling.

  Each of the pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 is provided with a Y-axis direction pressing plate 280. The Y-axis direction pressing plate 280 is formed in a ring shape. The Y-axis direction pressing plate 280 is provided on the Y-axis direction guide post 276 with the Y-axis direction guide post 276 inserted through the inner periphery thereof.

  Each of the pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 is provided with a Y-axis direction pressing spring 282 as Y-axis direction urging means. The Y-axis direction pressing spring 282 is provided on the Y-axis direction guide post 276 with the Y-axis direction guide post 276 inserted through the inner periphery thereof. The Y-axis direction pressing spring 282 is disposed between the flange portion 276 </ b> A of the Y-axis direction guide post 276 and the Y-axis direction pressing plate 280.

  As described above, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 are fitted into the guide grooves 256. When the pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 are fitted into the guide grooves 256, the Y-axis direction pressing plate 280 engages with the vertical portion 226 of the bracket 216. Since the Y-axis direction pressing plate 280 is biased in the Y-axis direction by the Y-axis direction pressing spring 282, the head module 210 is pressed toward the base frame 212 by the Y-axis direction pressing plate 280.

  Here, the pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 are arranged at regular intervals in the vertical direction as described above, but the Y-axis direction pressing springs 282 provided in each Y-axis direction guide post 276 have different urging forces. Those having different spring constants are used. Specifically, the Y-axis direction pressing spring 282 provided in the lower Y-axis direction guide post 276 has a larger spring constant than the Y-axis direction pressing spring 282 provided in the upper Y-axis direction guide post 276. Things are used. As a result, the pressing force by the Y-axis direction pressing plate 280 provided on the lower Y-axis direction guide post 276 is larger than the pressing force by the Y-axis direction pressing plate 280 provided on the upper Y-axis direction guide post 276. Become. This is to prevent the head module 210 from tilting when adjusting the mounting position in the X-axis direction. That is, by increasing the spring constant of the Y-axis direction pressing spring 282 provided in the lower Y-axis direction guide post 276 close to the X-axis direction mounting position adjusting means, the rotational moment during adjustment of the mounting position in the X-axis direction is increased. The center is set near the X-axis direction mounting position adjusting means, and the head module 210 can be prevented from tilting (the spring constant of the Y-axis direction pressing spring 282 provided in the upper Y-axis direction guide post 276 is increased). Then, it becomes difficult for the upper side of the head module 210 to move and to tilt easily.)

  In the inkjet head 200 of this example, since the X-axis direction mounting position adjusting means is provided in the vicinity of the lower Y-axis direction guide post 276, the Y provided in the lower Y-axis direction guide post 276 is provided. The spring constant of the axial pressing spring 282 is larger than the spring constant of the Y-axis pressing spring 282 provided in the upper Y-axis guide post 276, but in the vicinity of the upper Y-axis guide post 276, X When the axial mounting position adjusting means is provided, the spring constant of the Y-axis direction pressing spring 282 provided in the upper Y-axis direction guide post 276 is set to the Y-axis direction provided in the lower Y-axis direction guide post 276. The spring constant of the pressing spring 282 is set larger. That is, the spring constant of the Y-axis direction pressing spring 282 of the Y-axis direction guide post 276 installed closer to the X-axis direction mounting position adjusting means is set to the value of the Y-axis direction pressing spring 282 of the Y-axis direction guide post 276 on the other side. Make it larger than the spring constant. Thereby, the inclination of the head module 210 at the time of adjusting the attachment position in the X-axis direction can be prevented.

  The Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 has a knob portion 278A at the top. The Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is disposed in parallel with the Z-axis direction. In the upper frame portion 270, a Z-axis direction hanging rod insertion hole 284 for attaching the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is formed. The Z-axis direction hanging rod insertion hole 284 is formed along the Z-axis direction and is formed so as to penetrate from the upper surface portion of the upper frame portion 270 to the lower surface portion. The Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is inserted into the Z-axis direction hanging rod insertion hole 284 and attached to the upper frame portion 270.

  The Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 attached to the upper frame portion 270 is disposed in front of the outer surface of the lower frame portions 272A and 272B.

  Further, the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is disposed on the same straight line as the pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 and is disposed above the pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276. Therefore, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is accommodated in the guide groove 256.

  The Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is provided with a Z-axis direction pressing spring 286 as Z-axis direction biasing means. The Z-axis direction pressing spring 286 is provided on the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 with the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 inserted through the inner periphery thereof. The Z-axis direction pressing spring 286 is provided between the knob portion 278 </ b> A of the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 and the upper frame portion 270. As a result, the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is biased upward by the biasing force of the Z-axis direction pressing spring 286 (biased in the direction of pulling up toward the upper frame portion 270).

  The Z-axis suspending rod 278 is provided with a locking bar 288 at the tip (lower end). The locking bar 288 is provided so as to protrude left and right from the tip of the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 (provided perpendicular to the axial direction of the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278). The locking bar 288 is formed longer than the width of the guide groove 256. The locking bar 288 is fitted into the notches 258A and 258B formed in the guide groove 256 on the head module 210 side to lock the head module 210.

  The locking bar 288 is fitted into the notches 258A and 258B by rotating the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278. That is, as described above, the locking bar 288 is formed longer than the width of the guide groove 256, and therefore the head module 210 is oriented in the same direction as the width direction (X-axis direction) of the guide groove 256. When attached to the base frame 212, the lock bar 288 comes into contact with the inlet (upper end) of the guide groove 256, and the head module 210 cannot be attached.

  Therefore, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the lock bar 288 is positioned so as not to contact the inner wall surface of the guide groove 256, and the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212 in this state. Then, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212 and the locking bar 288 is located at the position where the notches 258A and 258B are formed, the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is rotated. As a result, the locking bar 288 fits into the notches 258A and 258B.

  As described above, when the axial direction of the locking bar 288 is parallel to the width direction (X-axis direction) of the guide groove 256, the locking bar 288 is fitted into the notches 258A and 258B. The position of the lock bar 288 at this time is defined as a lock position.

  On the other hand, when the axial direction of the locking bar 288 is orthogonal to the width direction (X-axis direction) of the guide groove 256, the locking bar 288 does not come into contact with the inner wall surface of the guide groove 256 (disengages from the notches 258A and 258B). . The position of the lock bar 288 at this time is defined as a lock release position.

  Since the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is biased upward by the Z-axis direction pressing spring 286, when the lock bar 288 is fitted into the notches 258A, 258B, the lock bar 288 is notched. Engage with 258A and 258B (engage with the ceiling surface of the inner periphery of the notches 258A and 258B). Thereby, the head module 210 attached to the base frame 212 is urged upward.

  The base frame 212 includes a base frame Y-axis positioning means for positioning in the Y-axis direction when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, and a base frame Z-axis positioning for positioning in the Z-axis direction. Means.

  The base frame Y-axis direction positioning means includes two fixed contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning members 290 that constitute the base frame Y-axis direction positioning member and one movable contact that also constitutes the base frame Y-axis direction positioning member. It is comprised with the base frame Y-axis direction positioning member 292.

  The two fixed contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning members 290 are each composed of a rigid pin (for example, a stainless steel pin), and are configured with higher hardness than the head module Y-axis direction fixed contact member 234. The two fixed contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning members 290 are provided so as to protrude downward (downward in the Z-axis direction) from the lower surface portions of the lower frame portions 272A and 272B, respectively. The two fixed contact base frame Y axis direction positioning members 290 are provided at the same interval as the installation interval of the two head module Y axis direction fixed contact members 234 provided on the head module 210 side. When attached to the two, the two head module Y-axis direction fixed contact members 234 are provided at positions where they contact the peripheral surface. That is, the two fixed contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning members 290 are provided corresponding to the two head module Y-axis direction fixed contact members 234 provided on the head module 210 side.

  The movable contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning member 292 is composed of a rigid pin (for example, a stainless steel pin), and is configured with higher hardness than the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236. The movable contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning member 292 is housed in a recess formed on the outer surface of the lower frame portions 272A, 272B and is disposed on the lower frame portions 272A, 272B. The movable contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning member 292 is disposed in parallel with the Y-axis direction. When the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the movable contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning member 292 is provided at a position where the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236 on the head module 210 side comes into contact with the front end surface thereof. . That is, the movable contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning member 292 is provided corresponding to the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236 provided on the head module 210 side.

  As described above, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the head module 210 is pressed toward the base frame 212 by the Y-axis direction pressing plate 280 provided in the Y-axis direction guide post 276. Therefore, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the two head module Y-axis direction fixed contact members 234 provided on the head module 210 side are replaced with the two fixed contact base frames Y provided on the base frame 212 side. It is pressed against the axial positioning member 290. The head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236 provided on the head module 210 side is pressed and brought into contact with the movable contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning member 292 provided on the base frame 212 side. Thereby, the head module 210 attached to the base frame 212 is positioned in the Y-axis direction with respect to the base frame 212.

  As described above, the fixed contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning member 290 is configured with higher hardness than the head module Y-axis direction fixed contact member 234, and the movable contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning member 292 is The head module is configured with higher hardness than the Y-axis direction movable contact member 236. Thereby, the position stability at the time of positioning can be improved, and the repeatability when the head module 210 is replaced can be improved.

  As a method for increasing the hardness, a material having a high hardness can be used, or a method for increasing the hardness by applying a surface treatment can be employed.

  Base frame Z-axis direction positioning means for positioning the head module 210 with respect to the base frame 212 in the Z-axis direction includes a pair of base frame Z-axis direction contact members 294.

  The pair of base frame Z-axis direction contact members 294 are composed of rigid pins (for example, stainless steel pins) and are formed with higher hardness than the head module Z-axis direction contact member 242. The pair of base frame Z-axis direction contact members 294 are provided to protrude from the outer surfaces of the lower frame portions 272A and 272B, respectively, and are disposed in parallel with the Y-axis direction. The pair of base frame Z-axis direction contact members 294 are provided at the same interval as the installation interval of the pair of head module Z-axis direction contact members 242 provided on the head module 210 side, and when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212. The pair of head modules Z-axis direction contact members 242 are provided at positions where they contact each other. That is, the pair of base frame Z-axis direction contact members 294 are provided corresponding to the head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 provided on the head module 210 side.

  As described above, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the head module 210 is biased upward by the action of the Z-axis direction pressing spring 286 provided on the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278. Accordingly, when the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the pair of head module Z-axis contact members 242 provided on the head module 210 is replaced with the pair of base frame Z-axis contact members 294 provided on the base frame 212. Abutted. As a result, the head module 210 is positioned in the Z-axis direction with respect to the base frame 212.

  As described above, the base frame Z-axis direction contact member 294 is formed with higher hardness than the head module Z-axis direction contact member 242. Thereby, the position stability at the time of positioning can be improved, and the repeatability when the head module 210 is replaced can be improved.

  As a method for increasing the hardness, a material having a high hardness can be used, or a method for increasing the hardness by applying a surface treatment can be employed.

  The base frame 212 is provided with an X-axis direction positioning reference pin 296 that is a constituent member of the X-axis direction attachment position adjusting means. The X-axis direction positioning reference pin 296 is configured by a rigid pin (for example, a stainless steel pin), and is provided so as to protrude downward (downward in the Z-axis direction) from the lower surface of the lower frame portions 272A and 272B. When the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the X-axis direction positioning reference pin 296 is disposed at a position to be inserted between the eccentric roller 248 provided on the head module 210 side and the plunger 250.

  When the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the X-axis positioning reference pin 296 is inserted between the eccentric roller 248 and the plunger 250 and is sandwiched between them. When the eccentric roller 248 is rotated in this state, the head module 210 is displaced in the X-axis direction with respect to the base frame 212.

  Further, the base frame 212 is provided with a magnetic sensor 298 that constitutes a position detecting means together with the magnet 260 provided on the head module 210 side. The magnetic sensor 298 is provided in the lower frame portions 272A and 272B. The lower frame portions 272A and 272B are provided with a magnetic sensor mounting portion 300 at a predetermined position. The magnetic sensor 298 is attached to the magnetic sensor mounting part 300. When the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the magnetic sensor 298 attached to the magnetic sensor mounting portion 300 is disposed at a position facing the magnet 260 provided on the head module 210 side.

  When the head module 210 attached to the base frame 212 is displaced in the X-axis direction by the X-axis direction attachment position adjusting means, the amount of displacement is detected by the magnetic sensor 298. Information on the amount of displacement detected by the magnetic sensor 298 is output to the system controller.

  The base frame 212 is configured as described above.

  The material of the base frame 212 is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to use a material that is not easily affected by heat so that the head module 210 can be attached with high accuracy. Specifically, it is preferable to form a material having a linear expansion coefficient of 10 ppm / ° C. or lower, which is lower than the iron-based linear expansion coefficient (about 15 ppm / ° C.). Thereby, it is possible to prevent the mounting position of the head module 210 from being changed due to the influence of heat. As such a material, for example, ceramics, invar, and super invar can be used.

<Assembly method of inkjet head>
Next, a method for assembling the inkjet head 200 will be described.

  As described above, the base frame 212 is provided with the head module support means, and the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212 using the head module support means.

  The head module support means is alternately provided on the pair of lower frame portions 272A and 272B. Therefore, the head module 210 is alternately attached to the pair of lower frame portions 272A and 272B. Since the attachment method itself is the same everywhere, here, a case where it is attached to the lower frame portion 272A will be described.

  The head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212 by an operation of pushing it upward from the bottom of the base frame 212.

  First, the horizontal portion 224 of the bracket 216 of the head module 210 is set in a posture parallel to the upper frame portion 270 of the base frame 212 at a position below the base frame 212. Further, the vertical portion 226 of the bracket 216 is set in a posture parallel to the lower frame portion 272A of the base frame 212. In this state, the position of the guide groove 256 formed in the bracket 216 of the head module 210 is aligned with the position of the Y-axis direction guide post 276 provided in the lower frame portion 272A of the base frame 212.

  Next, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the head module 210 is pushed up toward the base frame 212 so that the Y-axis direction guide post 276 fits into the guide groove 256. When the Y-axis direction guide post 276 is fitted into the guide groove 256, the head module 210 is pushed up vertically using the Y-axis direction guide post 276 as a guide. Thereby, blurring and rattling at the time of attachment can be prevented, and the head module 210 can be prevented from coming into contact with other members (such as the attached head module 210).

  When the Y-axis direction guide post 276 is fitted in the guide groove 256 and the head module 210 is pushed up, the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 provided in the base frame 212 is accommodated in the guide groove 256.

  Here, the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is provided with a locking bar 288. When the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212, the locking bar 288 is positioned at the unlocking position so that the locking bar 288 does not contact the inner wall surface of the guide groove 256. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the lock bar 288 from coming into contact with the entrance portion of the guide groove 256 and hindering the movement of the head module 210.

  When the head module 210 is pushed up toward the base frame 212 as described above, the pair of head module Z-axis direction contact members 242 provided on the bracket 216 of the head module 210 are paired with the pair of bases provided on the base frame 212. The frame abuts against the Z-axis direction contact member 294. When the pair of head module Z-axis direction contact members 242 are brought into contact with the pair of base frame Z-axis direction contact members 294 provided on the base frame 212, they are formed in the guide grooves 256 of the head module 210. The pair of notches 258 </ b> A and 258 </ b> B are located at the installation position of the lock bar 288 provided on the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278. In this state, the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is rotated, and the lock bar 288 is positioned at the lock position. As a result, the locking bar 288 fits into the notches 258A and 258B, and the locking bar 288 is locked to the ceiling surface of the inner periphery of the notches 258A and 258B. Thereby, the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212 in a state of being suspended by the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278.

  Here, the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is provided with a Z-axis direction pressing spring 286. For this reason, when locked to the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278, the head module 210 is pushed upward by the action of the Z-axis direction pressing spring 286. As a result, the pair of head module Z-axis direction contact members 242 provided on the head module 210 is brought into contact with the pair of base frame Z-axis direction contact members 294 provided on the base frame 212. As a result, the head module 210 is positioned with respect to the base frame 212 in the Z-axis direction.

  A pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 fitted in the guide groove 256 is provided with a Y-axis direction pressing spring 282. The Y-axis direction pressing spring 282 presses the head module 210 toward the base frame 212 via the Y-axis direction pressing plate 280. As a result, the head module Y-axis direction fixed contact member 234 and the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236 provided in the head module 210 are fixed to the fixed contact base frame Y-axis direction positioning member 290 provided in the base frame 212. And the base frame for movable contact Y-axis direction positioning member 292. As a result, the head module 210 is positioned with respect to the base frame 212 in the Y-axis direction.

  When the head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 is brought into contact with the base frame Z-axis direction contact member 294, the Y-axis direction guide post 276 is accommodated in the enlarged diameter portion 256A formed in the guide groove 256. Thereby, the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212 in a state in which the head module 210 can be displaced in the X-axis direction.

  The head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 and the head module Y-axis direction movable contact member 236 can be adjusted in position, but this position adjustment is preferably performed in advance (for example, at the time of factory shipment).

  As described above, the head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212. This operation is performed for all the head modules 210. As described above, since the head modules 210 are alternately attached to the base frame 212, the attachment is performed alternately.

  The attachment is preferably performed in order from one end of the base frame 212 to the other. At this time, it is preferable that the first head module 210 (the head module 210 to be attached first) is attached in accordance with the median value of the adjustment range of the displacement amount in the X-axis direction. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the risk that the subsequent mounting position of the head module 210 is out of the adjustment range, and it is possible to prevent the adjustment range from being unnecessarily large.

  The base frame 212 to which the head module 210 is attached is held by a predetermined holder provided in the ink jet recording apparatus and mounted on the ink jet recording apparatus.

《Head module positioning method》
The head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212 by the above attachment operation. However, this attachment is a rough attachment (temporary attachment). Thereafter, the interval between the head modules adjacent to each other is adjusted precisely so that no gap is generated in the nozzle row at the joint of the head modules 210. That is, the head module 210 is positioned. Hereinafter, a method for positioning the head module 210 will be described.

  The positioning of the head module 210 detects the relative positional relationship between the head modules 210 attached to the base frame 212, and based on the detection result, the interval between the head modules 210 falls within an allowable range. This is done by adjusting the mounting position in the X-axis direction.

  Here, the relative positional relationship between the head modules 210 attached to the base frame 212 is detected by recording an image of a predetermined test pattern on a sheet with the inkjet head 200 to which the head module 210 is assembled. . That is, the inkjet head 200 with the head module 210 assembled is mounted on an inkjet recording apparatus, an image of a predetermined test pattern is recorded on a sheet, and the relative positional relationship of each head module 210 is detected from the recorded image. . For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the distance between the dots ejected by the nozzle N serving as a reference in each head module 210 is measured on the image data, and the relative positional relationship (adjacent heads) of each head module 210 is measured. The interval δ) of the module 210 is detected.

  After the relative positional relationship of each head module 210 is detected, the mounting position of each head module 210 is finely adjusted using the X-axis direction mounting position adjusting means. That is, the position of each head module 210 in the X-axis direction is adjusted so that the interval between adjacent head modules 210 is within a preset allowable range.

  The position adjustment in the X-axis direction by the X-axis direction mounting position adjusting means is performed by rotating the eccentric roller 248 provided in each head module 210. The eccentric roller 248 is rotated using a screw driver. That is, since a groove for a screw driver is formed on the end surface of the shaft portion 248A of the eccentric roller 248, the tip of the screw driver is fitted in the groove, and the shaft portion 248A is rotated by the screw driver. The eccentric roller 248 is rotated.

  When the shaft portion of the eccentric roller 248 is rotated, the eccentric roller 248 rotates eccentrically. When the eccentric roller 248 rotates eccentrically, the head module 210 moves in the X axis direction with reference to the X axis direction positioning reference pin 296.

  Here, when the head module 210 moves in the X-axis direction, the amount of displacement is detected by the magnetic sensor 298. Information on the detected displacement amount is output to the system controller of the inkjet recording apparatus. The system controller outputs information on the obtained displacement amount to the display unit. The operator rotates the eccentric roller 248 by a necessary amount based on the displacement amount information displayed on the display unit.

  The correction amount of each head module 210 is determined from the relative positional relationship of each head module 210. That is, the correction amount of the mounting position of each head module 210 is determined so that the interval between adjacent head modules 210 is within a preset allowable range.

  The system controller acquires information on the relative position of each head module 210 (head module position information), and calculates a correction amount for keeping the interval between adjacent head modules 210 within an allowable range. The calculated correction amount information of the mounting position of each head module 210 is displayed on, for example, a display unit of the ink jet recording apparatus. The operator moves the head module 210 and adjusts the mounting position of the head module 210 based on the correction amount information displayed on the display unit.

  The mounting and position adjustment (positioning) of the head module 210 is completed by the series of operations described above. Here, the case where all the head modules 210 are attached to the base frame 212 has been described. However, when a part of the head modules 210 is replaced, the attachment is performed in the same procedure and the position is adjusted.

<How to remove the head module>
The removal of the head module 210 is performed as follows.

  The head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212 by engaging the locking bar 288 of the suspension rod 278 in the Z-axis direction with the notches 258A and 258B of the bracket 216.

  First, the lock bar 288 is disengaged. That is, the Z-axis direction hanging rod 278 is rotated to move the lock bar 288 to the unlock position. As a result, the lock bar 288 is disengaged from the notches 258A and 258B, and the engagement between the head module 210 and the lock bar 288 is released.

  After the engagement between the head module 210 and the locking bar 288 is released, the head module 210 is pulled downward. As a result, the head module 210 is removed from the base frame 212.

  When the head module 210 is pulled down, the pair of Y-axis direction guide posts 276 serve as guides, so that the head module 210 can be removed without contacting the other head modules 210.

<Head module replacement aid>
As described above, each head module 210 constituting the inkjet head 200 is detachably attached to the base frame 212.

  Therefore, when a problem occurs in a specific head module 210, it can be used again by replacing only the head module 210.

  In this case, it is necessary to remove the defective head module 210 and attach a new head module 210 to the position where the head module 210 was attached.

  However, the clearance between the head modules is narrow, and if the replacement work is not performed carefully, the head module or hand to be replaced may come into contact with the nozzle surface of the adjacent head module, and the head may be damaged.

  Therefore, in order to prevent such a situation, the head module 210 is replaced using the head module replacement assisting tool 10.

  Hereinafter, the head module replacement aid 10 will be described.

  FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the inkjet head to which the head module replacement aid is attached. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14 in FIG. 13 (side cross-sectional view), and FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 15-15 in FIG. FIG. 16 is a rear view of the inkjet head to which the head module replacement aid is attached.

  The head module replacement aid 10 is attached to the base frame 212 and covers the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210 located on both sides of the head module 210 to be replaced.

  The head module replacement assisting tool 10 includes an assisting tool main body 12, a pair of covers 14, and a cover opening / closing mechanism 16.

  The auxiliary tool body 12 has an L shape having a vertical portion 12A and a horizontal portion 12B, and is detachably attached to the base frame 212.

  The vertical portion 12A of the auxiliary tool main body 12 functions as an attachment portion to the base frame 212 and is attached to the base frame 212 via three auxiliary tool fixing screws 18 (auxiliary tool main body fixing means). The vertical portion 12A of the auxiliary tool body 12 is provided with screw mounting holes 20 for mounting the auxiliary tool fixing screws 18 at three locations.

  On the other hand, the base frame 212 is provided with an auxiliary tool mounting screw hole (supporting tool mounting portion) 21 into which the auxiliary tool fixing screw 18 is fitted. The auxiliary tool mounting screw holes 21 are provided corresponding to the mounting positions of the head modules 210 and are provided corresponding to the arrangement intervals of the auxiliary tool fixing screws 18 provided in the auxiliary tool body 12. Accordingly, both the first lower frame part 272A and the second lower frame part 272B are provided. When the auxiliary tool fixing screw 18 is screwed into the auxiliary tool mounting screw hole 21 corresponding to the head module 210 to be replaced and the auxiliary tool body 12 is attached to the base frame 212, the auxiliary tool body 12 is attached to the base frame 212. It is positioned and attached to.

  The auxiliary tool main body 12 attached to the base frame 212 has the horizontal portion 12B parallel to the nozzle surface 222, and the center in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) is the attachment position of the head module 210 to be replaced. Located in the center of. That is, the center in the longitudinal direction is located at the installation position of the head module support means of the head module 210 to be replaced.

  The horizontal part 12B of the auxiliary tool body 12 has a rectangular plate shape, and is provided with an opening 12b at the center. The opening 12b is formed corresponding to the size of the head module 210. The head module 210 is attached to the base frame 212 through the opening 12b.

  The cover 14 has a rectangular plate shape and is disposed symmetrically with respect to the opening 12b of the horizontal portion 12B. The cover 14 covers the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210 located on both sides of the head module 210 to be replaced.

  The cover 14 can also have a shape that covers the entire surface of the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210. However, since the portion to be protected is a region where the nozzle N is disposed, the shape that can cover at least the nozzle region 222A. If it is.

  For this reason, in this example, the cover 14 is formed with a width slightly larger than the width of the nozzle region 222A (the width in the Y-axis direction), not the size corresponding to the entire width of the nozzle surface 222.

  The cover opening / closing mechanism 16 is configured such that the cover 14 can be slidably supported and the cover 14 can be opened and closed. The cover opening / closing mechanism 16 includes an opening / closing mechanism body 22, a pair of shafts 24 slidably provided on the opening / closing mechanism body 22, a connection plate 26 that connects the pair of shafts 24 and the cover 14, and a pair of shafts 24. And a spring 28 biased in the direction.

  The opening / closing mechanism main body 22 has a block shape and is fixed to the horizontal portion 12 </ b> B of the auxiliary tool main body 12. The opening / closing mechanism body 22 is provided with a pair of bearing holes 22A for supporting the pair of shafts 24 slidably along the X-axis direction.

  The pair of shafts 24 are slidably provided in the opening / closing mechanism body 22 through the bearing holes 22 </ b> A provided in the opening / closing mechanism body 22.

  The connection plate 26 has a rectangular plate shape and is disposed perpendicular to the horizontal portion 12B along the Y-axis direction (arranged along the YZ plane). The upper end portion of the connection plate 26 is coupled to the lower surface of the cover 14, and the rear surface of the connection plate 26 is coupled to the tips of the pair of shafts 24. As a result, when the shaft 24 is slid, the cover 14 is slid in conjunction with the sliding of the shaft 24.

  A spring 28 as an urging means is provided on each shaft 24 and urges the shaft 24 in one direction, that is, in a direction protruding from the opening / closing mechanism main body 22. The spring 28 is attached to the shaft 24 through the shaft 24. One end of the spring 28 is locked to a spring locking piece 30 provided on the shaft 24, and the other end is locked to the opening / closing mechanism body 22. Thereby, each shaft 24 is urged in a direction protruding from the opening / closing mechanism main body 22, and the cover 14 is urged toward the opening 12b.

  Thus, the shaft 24 urged by the spring 28 is provided with a stopper 32 and is locked at a fixed position by the stopper 32. That is, when the stopper 32 abuts on the opening / closing mechanism body 22, the shaft 24 is prevented from falling off the opening / closing mechanism body 22 and is held at a fixed position. As a result, the cover 14 is also held at a fixed position in an unloaded state.

  Here, assuming that the position held when the cover 14 is in a no-load state is the protection position, the front end of the cover 14 is located inside the edge position of the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210 in the protection position. That is, the tip of the nozzle surface 222 is disposed so as to protrude inward (center side of the opening 12b) from the edge of the nozzle surface 222 so that the edge portion of the nozzle surface 222 can be completely covered. Accordingly, the nozzle surface 222 of the adjacent head module 210 can be completely covered with the cover 14, and the entire nozzle region 222 </ b> A of the nozzle surface 222 including the edge portion can be protected with the cover 14.

  On the other hand, if the cover 14 is projected inside the opening 12b in this way, the head module 210 to be replaced cannot be attached. However, since the cover 14 is slidably provided, the cover 14 is attached immediately before the head module 210 is attached (just before the head main body 218 of the head module 210 is fitted between the head main bodies 218 of the adjacent head modules 210). By opening, the head module 210 can be attached without any problem.

  FIG. 17 is a bottom view of the head module replacement aid when the cover is opened, and FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 in FIG.

  As shown in the figure, by sliding the pair of covers 14 away from each other, the cover 14 is retracted from the opening 12b, and the head module 210 to be replaced can be attached.

<How to replace the head module>
The replacement operation of the head module 210 using the head module replacement assisting tool 10 configured as described above is performed as follows.

<Removing the replacement head module>
First, the head module replacement aid 10 is attached to the base frame 212.

  The head module replacement assisting tool 10 is attached by fixing the assisting tool body 12 to the base frame 212 using the assisting tool fixing screw 18. By attaching the head module replacement assisting tool 10 to the base frame 212, the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210 located on both sides of the head module 210 to be replaced is covered with the cover 14. Thereby, the nozzle surface 222 of the adjacent head module 210 is protected.

  Next, an operation for removing the head module 210 to be replaced is performed.

  First, the electric cable and piping connected to the head module 210 to be replaced are disconnected.

  Next, the head module 210 to be replaced is removed. As described above, the removal of the head module 210 is performed by releasing the engagement of the locking bar 288 and pulling down the head module 210.

  However, part of the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210 to be replaced is covered with the cover 14 (the boundary portion with the adjacent head module 210 is covered with the cover 14). For this reason, if it pulls down as it is, the cover 14 contacts the nozzle surface 222.

  Therefore, when removing the head module 210, the cover 14 is slid and retracted to create a space through which the head module 210 can pass, and then the head module 210 is pulled down. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210 to be replaced from coming into contact with the cover 14.

<Attaching a new head module>
Next, an operation of attaching a new head module 210 is performed.

  As described above, the mounting of the head module 210 is performed by pushing up the head module 210 after aligning the head module 210.

  First, the posture of the head module 210 is adjusted, and the Y-axis direction guide post 276 provided in the base frame 212 is fitted into the guide groove 256 provided in the head module 210. If this operation is not performed carefully, a hand or an electric cable 230 may come into contact with the nozzle surface 222 of the adjacent head module 210 to cause damage. In particular, since the electric cable 230 is flexible, the electric cable 230 is not stable and tends to come into contact with the nozzle surface 222 (particularly, the edge portion) of the adjacent head module 210 unless the work is performed carefully. However, as shown in FIG. 19, since the nozzle surface 222 of the adjacent head module 210 is covered with the cover 14, it is possible to prevent contact with a hand, the electric cable 230, or the like.

  After fitting the Y-axis direction guide post 276 in the guide groove 256, the head module 210 is pushed up toward the base frame 212, and the head body 218 is fitted between the head bodies 218 of the adjacent head modules 210.

  Here, as described above, the nozzle surface 222 of the adjacent head module 210 is covered with the cover 14, and the cover 14 is on the inner side (opening 12 b side) so as to protect the edge portion of the nozzle surface 222. Since the head module 210 is pushed up as it is, the head main body 218 comes into contact with the cover 14.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 20, the cover 14 is slid and retracted immediately before the head main body 218 contacts the cover 14 to create a space through which the head main body 218 can pass, and then the head main body 218 is moved to the adjacent head module 210. Is fitted between the head main bodies 218. Thereby, the head module 210 can be attached to the base frame 212 while avoiding contact with the cover 14.

  When the head module 210 is pushed up to a predetermined position, the head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 comes into contact with the base frame Z-axis direction contact member 294. Thereby, the head module 210 is positioned in the Z-axis direction. Thereafter, the lock module 288 is engaged with the notches 258A and 258B to lock the head module 210.

  Thus, the attachment of a new head module 210 is completed. Thereafter, the head module replacement aid 10 is removed from the base frame 212.

  As described above, the head module 210 can be easily replaced without damaging the nozzle surface 222 of the adjacent head module 210 by performing the replacement operation of the head module 210 using the head module replacement assisting tool 10 of the present embodiment. Can be exchanged.

<< Second Embodiment of Head Module Replacement Aid >>
<Constitution>
The head module replacement assisting tool 10 of the above embodiment is configured to be attached to the base frame 212 and protect the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210 adjacent to the head module 210 to be replaced.

  The head module replacement assisting tool 10 of this embodiment further includes a protective cover (protective member) 50 that is attached to the replacement target head module 210 and protects the nozzle surface 222 of the replacement target head module 210. Further, the head module replacement assisting tool 10 according to the present embodiment automatically opens and closes the cover 14 in conjunction with the mechanism for guiding the head module 210 to be replaced in conjunction with the protective cover 50 and the protective cover 50. And a mechanism for making it.

  21 and 22 are a front view and a side sectional view showing the structure of the protective cover. FIG. 23 is a bottom view showing the second embodiment of the head module replacement aid. 24 is a sectional view taken along line 24-24 in FIG. 23, and FIG. 25 is a sectional view taken along line 25-25 in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the protective cover 50 includes a protective cover main body 52 and a clip 54 for attaching the protective cover main body 52 to the head module 210.

  The protective cover body 52 has a square box shape and is attached to the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210. The outer shape of the protective cover body 52 substantially matches the outer shape of the nozzle surface 222. By mounting the protective cover body 52 on the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210, almost the entire surface of the nozzle surface 222 is protected. 52.

  The protective cover main body 52 is attached to the nozzle surface 222 by bringing the upper end portion into contact with the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210, but the nozzle region 222A is formed with a notch 52A so as not to contact. The Thereby, it can prevent that the protective cover main body 52 contacts the nozzle area | region 222A, and the nozzle area | region 222A is damaged.

  The clip 54 includes a pair of arms 54A, a shaft 54B, and a spring 54C. The shaft 54 </ b> B is disposed inside the protective cover main body 52 and is integrally fixed to the protective cover main body 52. The pair of arms 54A are rotatably attached to the shaft 54B so as to cross each other. The spring 54C couples the pair of arms 54A and biases the tip portions of the pair of arms 54A in the closing direction. When the proximal end portions of the pair of arms 54A are moved toward each other against the biasing force of the spring 54C, the distal end portions of the pair of arms 54A are opened, and when the force is released, the distal end portions are closed. The protective cover 50 is attached to the head module 210 by sandwiching the side surface portion of the head main body 218 with the tip portions of the pair of arms 54A.

  As described above, in the head module replacement assisting tool 10 of the present embodiment, the mechanism for guiding the head module 210 to be replaced in conjunction with the protective cover 50 and the protection attached to the head module 210 to be replaced. A mechanism for automatically opening and closing the cover 14 in conjunction with the cover 50 is further provided.

  The mechanism for guiding the head module 210 in conjunction with the protective cover 50 is constituted by four guide bars 60 (protective member guide means) provided in the auxiliary tool body 12, as shown in FIGS.

  The four guide bars 60 are provided on both sides of the opening 12b, and are arranged perpendicular to the horizontal part 12B of the auxiliary tool body 12, respectively. Each guide bar 60 has a surface facing the opening 12b as a guide surface 60A, and both side portions (protective member guide portions) of the protective cover 50 are in contact with the guide surface 60A. The protective cover 50 is regulated in its posture and its moving direction is regulated by bringing both side portions into contact with the guide surface 60A of the guide bar 60. That is, the moving direction is restricted so as to move vertically with respect to the base frame 212. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 26, the head module 210 is guided so as to move vertically with respect to the base frame 212.

  As described above, in order to attach the head module 210 to the base frame 212, it is necessary to fit the Y-axis direction guide post 276 on the base frame 212 side into the guide groove 256 of the head module 210. By guiding the protective cover 50 with the guide bar 60, the Y-axis direction guide post 276 can be fitted into the guide groove 256 simply by pushing up the protective cover 50. Thereby, the head module 210 can be attached to the base frame 212 more safely and reliably.

  As shown in FIGS. 21 to 25, the mechanism for automatically opening and closing the cover 14 includes a pair of cams 70 provided in the protective cover 50 and a connection plate 26 that functions as a cam follower.

  The pair of cams 70 are disposed on both side surfaces of the protective cover 50. The pair of cams 70 has a plate shape, and the tip end portion is formed in an arc shape.

  As described above, the protective cover 50 is guided by the guide bar 60 and moves vertically with respect to the base frame 212. The cam 70 comes into contact with the connection plate 26 during this movement process and presses the connection plate 26 against the urging force of the spring 28. As a result, the cover 14 connected to the connection plate 26 is opened and closed.

<Removing the replacement head module>
First, the head module replacement aid 10 is attached to the base frame 212. When the head module replacement assisting tool 10 is attached to the base frame 212, the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210 located on both sides of the head module 210 to be replaced is covered with the cover 14. Thereby, the nozzle surface 222 of the adjacent head module 210 is protected. Here, the cover 14 is disposed so as to cover the boundary portion between the head module 210 to be replaced and the adjacent head module 210.

  Next, an operation for removing the head module 210 to be replaced is performed.

  First, the electric cable and piping connected to the head module 210 to be replaced are disconnected.

  Next, the protective cover 50 is attached to the head module 210 to be replaced.

  Here, the protective cover 50 is attached to the replacement target head module 210 by an operation of fitting between the four guide bars 60 provided in the auxiliary tool body 12 and pushing it upward. The protective cover 50 is positioned by being fitted between the four guide bars 60 and guided so as to move vertically with respect to the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210 to be replaced.

  At this time, the protective cover 50 is pushed up toward the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210 to be replaced with the tips of the pair of arms 54A constituting the clip 54 open. Then, when the tips contact the nozzle surface 222, the tips of the pair of arms 54A are closed. As a result, both side portions of the head main body 218 of the head module 210 to be replaced are sandwiched between the distal ends of the pair of arms 54A, and the protective cover 50 is attached to the head module 210 to be replaced.

  In addition, although part of the nozzle surface 222 of the head module 210 to be replaced is covered with the cover 14 (the boundary with the adjacent head module 210 is covered with the cover 14), as described above. When the protective cover 50 is moved along the guide bar 60, the cam 70 provided in the protective cover 50 comes into contact with the connection plate 26 functioning as a cam follower, and the cover 14 is forcibly opened. Thereby, the protective cover 50 can be attached to the head module 210 to be replaced without contacting the cover 14.

  After the protective cover 50 is attached, the head module 210 to be replaced is removed. The removal of the head module 210 is performed by releasing the engagement of the locking bar 288 and pulling down the head module 210 together with the protective cover 50.

  Here, when the head module 210 is pulled down, the head module 210 is detached from the base frame 212. However, when the head module 210 is pulled down together with the protective cover 50, the cover 14 is automatically moved when the head module 210 is pulled down to a predetermined position. Closed. That is, when the head module 210 is pulled down to a predetermined position (a position where contact with the cover 14 can be avoided), the engagement between the cam 70 provided in the protective cover 50 and the connection plate 26 is released, and the cover 14 is moved to the spring 28. It is automatically closed by the biasing force. Thereby, simultaneously with the removal of the head module 210, the nozzle surface 222 of the adjacent head module 210 is covered and protected by the cover 14 including the edge portion.

<Attaching a new head module>
Next, an operation of attaching a new head module 210 is performed.

  First, the protective cover 50 is attached to the newly installed head module 210.

  Next, the head module 210 to which the protective cover 50 is attached is attached to the base frame 212 together with the protective cover 50.

  In this case, first, as shown in FIG. 26, the protective cover 50 attached to the head module 210 is fitted between the four guide bars 60 provided in the auxiliary tool body 12. Thereby, the attitude | position of the protective cover 50 is prescribed | regulated. At the same time, the posture of the head module 210 is defined. That is, the horizontal portion 224 of the bracket 216 of the head module 210 is parallel to the upper frame portion 270 of the base frame 212, and the vertical portion 226 of the bracket 216 is parallel to the lower frame portion 272 A of the base frame 212.

  Next, the head module 210 is pushed up toward the base frame 212 together with the protective cover 50.

  Here, the head module 210 moves perpendicularly to the base frame 212 (moves along the Z-axis direction) as the protective cover 50 is guided by the guide bar 60. Thereby, the head module 210 can be moved without fluttering.

  When the head module 210 is pushed up to a predetermined position, the Y-axis direction guide post 276 is fitted into the base frame 212 in the guide groove 256. Therefore, after the Y-axis direction guide post 276 is fitted into the base frame 212 in the guide groove 256, the movement of the head module 210 is restricted by the guide action of the guide groove 256 and the Y-axis direction guide post 276.

  Further, when the head module 210 is pushed up to a predetermined position, the cover 14 is automatically opened. That is, when the head module 210 is pushed up to a predetermined position (position immediately before contacting the cover 14), the cam 70 provided in the protective cover 50 contacts the connection plate 26 as shown in FIG. Pushes against the biasing force of the spring 28. As a result, the head module 210 can be prevented from coming into contact with the cover 14.

  When the head module 210 is pushed up to a predetermined position, the head module Z-axis direction contact member 242 comes into contact with the base frame Z-axis direction contact member 294. Thereby, the head module 210 is positioned in the Z-axis direction. Thereafter, the lock module 288 is engaged with the notches 258A and 258B to lock the head module 210. Thereby, the attachment of the new head module 210 is completed.

  Thereafter, the protective cover 50 is removed from the attached head module 210. The protective cover 50 is removed from the head module 210 by an operation of releasing the holding by the clip 54 and pulling it down.

  When the protective cover 50 is removed, the engagement between the cam 70 and the connection plate 26 is released, and the cover 14 is closed. Thereafter, the head module replacement aid 10 is further removed from the base frame 212.

  The replacement operation of the head module 210 is completed through the series of steps described above.

  According to this embodiment, since the cover 14 is automatically opened and closed, the head module 210 can be replaced more easily. Further, since the replacement target head module 210 can be protected by the protective cover 50, the replacement operation can be performed more safely. In addition, since the protective cover 50 can be used for positioning and movement guide during attachment, replacement work can be performed very easily.

<< Other Embodiments of Head Module Replacement Aid >>
<Other forms for automatically opening and closing the cover>
In the above embodiment, when the cover 14 is automatically opened and closed, a so-called cam mechanism is used to open and close, but the mechanism for automatically opening and closing the cover 14 is not limited to this. In addition, for example, it can be configured to be opened and closed by using driving means such as a motor and a cylinder.

  FIG. 28 is a rear view showing another example of a mechanism for automatically opening and closing a cover.

  The example shown in the figure is a mechanism for opening and closing the cover 14 with a cylinder.

  The auxiliary tool body 12 is provided with a pair of racks 80 along the X-axis direction. Each rack 80 is supported by a support portion 82 provided on the auxiliary tool body 12 and is slidable in the X-axis direction.

  The auxiliary tool body 12 is provided with a pinion 84. The pinion 84 is engaged with the pair of racks 80. Thus, when one rack 80 is moved, the other rack 80 moves in the opposite direction with the same movement amount. That is, the pair of racks 80 moves in a direction toward and away from each other.

  Each rack 80 is connected to the connection plate 26 via a connecting member 86. Thus, when the rack 80 is moved, the connection plate 26 moves in conjunction with the rack 80. As a result, the cover 14 is opened and closed. That is, the position (first position (protection position)) covering the edge part of the nozzle surface of the head module arranged on both sides of the head module to be replaced and the head arranged on both sides of the head module to be exchanged It moves between a position (second position) at which the edge portion of the nozzle surface of the module is exposed.

  The auxiliary tool body 12 is provided with a cylinder 88. The cylinder 88 is disposed along the X axis and is disposed on an extension line of one rack 80.

  The driving of the cylinder 88 is controlled by a controller (not shown). When the cylinder 88 is driven to extend the rod, the end of one rack 80 is pressed. As a result, the racks 80 move away from each other, and the cover 14 is opened. When the cylinder 88 is driven to contract the rod, the cover 14 is closed by the biasing force of the spring 28.

  Thus, by using the cylinder 88, the cover 14 can be automatically opened and closed. In addition, it can be opened and closed using a driving means such as a motor (for example, a mechanism for opening and closing using a ball screw or the like driven by a motor).

  As described above, when the cover 14 is opened / closed using the driving means, the position of the pushed head module 210 is detected, and the head module 210 is automatically opened / closed so as not to contact the cover 14. preferable. For example, when the head module 210 moves to a predetermined position, a sensor 90 that is turned on / off is provided, and the driving of the driving means is turned on / off by turning on / off the sensor 90, so that the cover 14 is automatically It can also be configured to open and close.

<Other forms for guiding the protective cover>
In the above embodiment, four guide bars 60 are provided on the auxiliary tool main body 12 as protective member guide portions, and the movement of the protective cover 50 is guided by the four guide bars 60, so that the head module to be replaced is provided. Although 210 is configured to guide, the mechanism for guiding the movement of the protective cover 50 is not limited to this. Any configuration may be used as long as the head module 210 to which the protective cover 50 is attached can be guided to move up and down vertically with respect to the base frame 212. For example, as shown in FIG. 29 to FIG. 33, the guide rod and the guide hole may be used for the guide.

  FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the head module replacement aid when the protective cover is guided by the guide rod and the guide hole, and FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 30-30 in FIG. FIGS. 31 and 32 are a plan view and a front view of the protective cover when the protective cover is guided by the guide rod and the guide hole, respectively. FIG. 33 is an explanatory view of the action of the guide mechanism of the protective cover using the guide rod and the guide hole.

  The guide mechanism of this example includes four guide rods 100 provided in the auxiliary tool body 12 and four guide parts (protective member guide parts) 102 provided in the protective cover 50.

  Two guide rods 100 are provided on both sides of the opening 12b, and are respectively disposed perpendicular to the horizontal portion 12B of the auxiliary tool body 12. Each guide rod 100 has a cylindrical shape, and its tip (lower end) is formed in a conical shape.

  The four guide portions 102 are arranged corresponding to the four guide rods 100 and are provided on both side surface portions of the protective cover 50. Each guide portion 102 is provided with a guide hole 104 through which the guide rod 100 is inserted.

  When attaching or detaching the head module 210, the protective cover 50 is attached to the head module 210, and the guide rod 100 is inserted into the guide holes 104 of the four guide portions 102 provided in the protective cover 50. As shown in FIG. 33, the protective cover 50 is regulated in its posture and its moving direction is regulated by inserting the guide rod 100 into the guide hole 104 of the guide portion 102. That is, the moving direction is restricted so as to move vertically with respect to the base frame 212. As a result, the head module 210 is guided to move vertically with respect to the base frame 212.

  In this example, the protective cover 50 is guided using the four guide rods 100 and the four guide holes 104. However, the protective cover 50 is guided using the guide rods and the guide holes. The number may be at least two (for example, one on each side of the protective cover 50). The same applies to the case of guiding with the guide bar 60. If there are at least two (for example, one on each side), the protective cover 50 can be guided.

  Thus, the mechanism for guiding the head module 210 via the protective cover can take various forms.

<Other forms>
In the above-described embodiment, the spring 28 is provided to constantly bias the cover 14 in the closing direction, but the cover 14 can be opened and closed completely manually. In this case, the position of the cover 14 can be adjusted arbitrarily.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the cover 14 is slidable, you may fix to the auxiliary tool main body 12 and provide.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Head module exchange auxiliary tool, 12 ... Auxiliary tool main body, 12A ... Vertical part of auxiliary tool main body, 12B ... Horizontal part of auxiliary tool main body, 12b ... Opening part of auxiliary tool main body, 14 ... Cover, 16 ... Cover opening / closing mechanism 18 ... Screws for fixing auxiliary tools, 20 ... Screw mounting holes, 21 ... Screw holes for mounting auxiliary tools, 22 ... Main body of opening / closing mechanism, 22A ... Bearing holes, 24 ... Shaft, 26 ... Connection plate, 28 ... Spring, 30 ... Spring locking piece 32 ... Stopper 50 ... Protective cover 52 ... Protective cover body 54 ... Clip 54A ... Clip arm 54B ... Clip shaft 54C ... Clip spring 60 ... Guide bar 60A ... Guide Guide surface of bar, 70 ... cam, 80 ... rack, 82 ... support, 84 ... pinion, 86 ... connecting member, 88 ... cylinder, 90 ... sensor, 100 ... guide rod, 102 ... guy , 104 ... guide hole, 200 ... inkjet head, 210 ... head module, 212 ... base frame, 214 ... head, 216 ... bracket, 218 ... head body, 220 ... electrical equipment / piping section, 222 ... nozzle surface, 222A ... nozzle Nozzle region of surface, 224 ... Horizontal portion of bracket, 224A ... Opening portion of bracket, 226 ... Vertical portion of bracket, 226A ... Main body of bracket, 226B ... First overhang portion of bracket, 226C ... Second portion of bracket Overhang portion, 228 ... pipe, 230 ... electric cable, 234 ... head module Y-axis direction fixed contact member, 236 ... head module Y-axis direction movable contact member, 238 ... head module Y-axis direction movable contact member insertion hole, 240 ... Head module Y axis direction movable contact member position adjusting screw, 242... Head module Z-axis contact member 244... Head module Z-axis contact member insertion hole 246. Head module Z-axis contact member position adjusting screw 248. Eccentric roller 248 A. Eccentric roller shaft 248 B eccentric Roller part of core roller, 250 ... plunger, 252 ... eccentric roller mounting hole, 254 ... leaf spring, 256 ... guide groove, 256A ... enlarged diameter part of guide groove, 258A, 258B ... notch part of guide groove, 260 ... Magnet 270 ... Upper frame part of base frame, 272A ... First lower frame part of base frame, 272B ... Second lower frame part of base frame, 276 ... Y-axis direction guide post, 276A ... Flange of Y-axis direction guide post 278 ... Z-axis direction hanging rods, 278A ... Z-axis direction hanging rod knobs, 280 ... Y-axis direction pressing plate, 282 ... Y-axis direction pressing spring, 284 ... Z-axis direction hanging rod insertion hole, 286 ... Z-axis direction pressing spring, 288 ... Z-axis direction hanging rod locking bar, 290 ... Fixed contact Base frame Y-axis positioning member, 292 ... Base frame Y-axis positioning member for movable contact, 294 ... Base frame Z-axis contact member, 296 ... X-axis positioning reference pin, 298 ... Magnetic sensor, 300 ... Magnetic sensor Mounting part, N ... Nozzle

Claims (10)

A linear base frame; a plurality of head module support means provided at regular intervals along the longitudinal direction of the base frame; and a nozzle surface on which a number of nozzles are arranged, and the head module support means A plurality of head modules that are detachably attached to the base frame, and the plurality of head modules are attached to the base frame via the head module support means, whereby the nozzle surfaces of the head modules In an inkjet head connected in a row, a head module replacement assisting tool that assists in replacement work of the head module,
An auxiliary tool body detachably attached to the base frame;
A pair of covers that cover the nozzle surface of the head module that is provided on the auxiliary tool body and that is disposed on both sides of the head module to be replaced;
Head module replacement aid with   The head module replacement assisting device according to claim 1, wherein the pair of covers are slidably provided on the assisting device body. Biasing means for biasing the pair of covers in a direction approaching each other;
A stopper for locking the pair of covers at a protective position;
The pair of covers is disposed at a position that covers edge portions of the nozzle surface of the head module disposed on both sides of the head module to be replaced by being positioned at the protection position. Item 3. The head module replacement aid according to Item 2.   The head module replacement auxiliary tool according to claim 3, further comprising a protective member that is detachably attached to the head module to be replaced and protects the nozzle surface of the head module to be replaced. A module guide provided in the head module;
Module guide means provided on the base frame and engaged with the module guide portion to guide the head module to the head module support means;
The head module replacement aid according to claim 4, further comprising: A protective member guide portion provided in the protective member;
Protective member guide means that is provided in the auxiliary tool main body, engages with the protective member guide part, and guides the module guide part of the head module to which the protective member is attached to the module guide means;
The head module replacement aid according to claim 5, further comprising: A pair of cams provided in the protective member;
A cam follower provided in the pair of covers;
The pair of cams further contacts and separates from the cam follower in conjunction with an operation of attaching or removing the head module to or from the head module support means, and opens and closes the pair of covers. The head module replacement aid described in 1. Drive means for moving the pair of covers between a first position and a second position;
The pair of covers are arranged at positions that cover edge portions of the nozzle surfaces of the head modules arranged on both sides of the head module to be replaced by being located at the first position, and The head module replacement assisting tool according to claim 2, wherein the head module replacement assisting tool is disposed at a position exposing the edge portions of the nozzle surface of the head module disposed on both sides of the head module to be replaced. . An auxiliary tool body fixing means for fixing the auxiliary tool body to the base frame;
A plurality of the base frame according to the mounting interval of the head module, and an auxiliary tool mounting portion to which the auxiliary tool main body is positioned and mounted via the auxiliary tool main body fixing means,
The head module replacement aid according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising:   The head module includes an L-shaped bracket composed of a horizontal portion and a vertical portion, the nozzle portion is provided on the horizontal portion, and the vertical portion is supported by the head module support means, and the base frame 10. The head module replacement assisting device according to claim 1, wherein the vertical portions are alternately arranged on the base frame between the adjacent head modules when attached to the head module. 11.

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