JP2710927B2 - Image forming device - Google Patents

Description

Description: TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a method for operating an image forming apparatus, and more particularly, to a method for operating an image forming apparatus.
Paper in the form of continuous paper such as roll paper, fanfold paper, etc.
The recording medium transport system and the entire width of the recording medium
Of an image forming apparatus including a recording unit for forming an image by
It relates to the operation method. [Prior Art] As a conventional image forming apparatus of this type, the present applicant has disclosed a feature.
No. 59-101508 to No. 59-101512
There is In these, transport that can be easily connected and separated
Means and Liquid Having Liquid Jet Recording Apparatus
Protecting the body ejection recording device and further performing ejection recovery processing etc.
Equipped with cap means, exchange of recording medium in separated state
Work and maintenance work of each part are easy and in the connected state
Is capable of forming high-quality images by properly positioning each part
An image forming apparatus has been proposed. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 50-120730 describes an ink jet system.
Drying of Inkjet Nozzles in Recording Devices
We propose improvement of cap to prevent clogging
You. In such devices, the cap is
Elasticity for airtightness that can seal the fine holes at the nozzle tip
And a press-down reinforcing plate integrated with this elastic body.
Is moved to the nozzle side by the driver and the tension spring.
And the nozzle is joined by another tension spring.
It is configured such that the distal end portion is sealed. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 58-67461 discloses that a substrate can be moved forward and backward.
Linked with the attached recording means and forward / backward movement of this recording means
To rotate, thereby covering the ink ejection port surface of the recording means.
So-called full line multi-purpose
We proposed an inkjet recording device called a ray type.
ing. The cap means rotates about an axis, and is
Movement toward the ink ejection port of the
It is configured to cap when it is in contact with the plate.
Have been. JP-A-58-65668 discloses that the ink is filled and used for preparation.
Inkjet printheads on standby or at rest
Suggest a way to save. Such a method comprises a recording means and
Ink at the tip of the inkjet print head
Make the jet face flexible, impermeable and chemically stable
Coated with a substance, and pressurized
Close to prevent air bubbles from entering and to dry ink
To prevent clogging of the ejection port due to
It is intended to protect the water repellency of the mouth. JP-A-59-145157 discloses an inkjet recording apparatus.
Proposes a method of protecting the head for use. This method is described below.
An elastic member and the elastic member press the ink jetting surface of the recording means.
Protective member made of a sheet inert to the ink to be pressed
To prevent ink evaporation and air bubble intrusion.
We are trying to prevent it. As described above, in the image forming apparatus proposed conventionally,
Easy and easy positioning of the connection between the recording means and the cap means
There is an inconvenience that the
For recovery processing of ink ejection performance that should be performed for a stage
There was also a lack of consideration about the situation. [Purpose] An object of the present invention is to provide a recording means for protecting the recording means.
Of an image forming apparatus provided with a cap means which can be joined to a device
A method, wherein the cap means is a recording means during the joining.
To easily and reliably hold
And an operation method of the image forming apparatus. [Constitution of the Invention] The present invention that achieves the above object is a recording medium on which recording is performed.
Conveying means for conveying the body, and collectively record over the entire width of the recording medium by discharging liquid
Has a length that can perform
A convex portion is provided, and is transported by the transporting means.
Recording position for performing recording on a recording medium and the recording
Move between the retracted position and the retracted position from the recording medium
Possible recording means, having a length corresponding to the length of the recording means,
Concave portions into which the convex portions can be fitted are provided at both ends in the direction.
And is connected to the recording means to protect the recording means.
Means for carrying out the recording, and conveying the recording medium by the conveying means by using the cap means.
Drive means for driving to move along the direction
And an operating method of the image forming apparatus, comprising: when the recording unit is at the retracted position, the driving is performed.
Facing the recording means along the transport direction by means
A step of moving the cap means to a position to perform, and the recording from the retracted position with respect to the cap means.
Move the recording means toward the position,
A fitting step for fitting into the concave portion, and turning off the driving of the driving means, wherein the cap means has its own weight.
The recording means and the cap means
And a holding step of holding the engagement with the image forming apparatus.
You. That is, the projection of the long recording means is
The recording means and the cap means
Drive cap means to position and hold joint
The biggest feature is that the driving of the driving means for turning off is stopped. [Operation] According to the present invention, the cap means is fitted into the concave part of the convex part.
Recording and ultimately positioning and holding
Means and the cap means have high positional freedom with respect to each other.
Therefore, even if there is a slight misalignment,
The positioning of the two is finely adjusted by the
Since the misalignment is absorbed, it is unique to long recording means.
Capable of uniform and high-precision capping
You. Examples Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. 1.1 Appearance FIGS. 1 and 2 (A) and (B) show the image formation of the present invention.
Of the schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus used for the operation method of the apparatus.
An example is shown. In this example, image information and control signals related to recording are
An image forming device that can be connected to the host system
It is a thing. In these drawings, reference numerals, names of respective parts, functions and
The meaning corresponds as follows. 1.2 Internal (1) Internal of Recording Unit FIG. 3 shows an example of the internal configuration of the recording unit 100.
FIG.
The reference signs and the names, functions, and meanings of each part are as follows.
Respond. In this configuration, the recording head 110 and the camera
The control system including the cartridge tank 120 is, for example,
Disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Nos. 58-244131 to 58-244138.
Inkjet printers can be used. (2) Inside the paper feed unit FIG. 4 is for explaining the internal configuration of the paper feed unit 300.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the paper feeding unit 300 opened,
The signs correspond to the names of parts, functions and meanings as follows.
You. (3) Inside the controller unit FIGS. 5A to 5C show the controller unit 200.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for describing an example of an internal configuration. In this example
In the following, the controller unit 200 is connected to the recording unit 1
It is arranged below 00. Also, the controller unit
Maintenance work with the knit 200 independent of the recording unit 100
Recording unit as described later.
Even if there was ink leakage inside 100, it also leaked
A blocking plate for blocking ink and draining the ink
Provide a member etc. leading to the tank 800 and install the controller unit.
To protect ink 200 from ink leakage. In FIGS. 5A to 5C, reference numerals and names of respective parts
The names, functions, and meanings correspond as follows. 2.1 Basic operation Next, the basic operation of each part of the device will be described. (1) Power ON / OFF a.ON Turn on the power while the paper feed unit 300 is closed (the state shown in Fig. 1).
Flip the power switch 1500 upward. At this time, the BUSY
The lamp lights up, and each part is checked. If there is no abnormality, the BUSY lamp turns off and turns on after about 5 to 10 seconds.
The LINE lamp lights up and image data can be printed
State. At this time, if the cap 140 is
If not, they are automatically capped. If an error is detected, an error code is displayed.
Displayed on the ray panel. If the paper feed unit 300 is
Even if the slot 110 is not capped, it is automatically
Do not do No matter where the cap is located
Is considered open, so the cap UP / DOWN switch
Press the switch to close the cap. b.OFF Turn the power switch 1500 down. (2) ON LINE mode and OFF LINE mode ON LINE mode is when the ON LINE lamp is lit,
OFF LINE mode means that the ON LINE lamp is off.
Say. Control of host system when in ON LINE mode
Form feed, initialize, image
It is possible to print the data. Press the internal switch when in OFF LINE mode
Paper feed, check print, recovery
Is possible. Normally, pressing the ON LINE switch sets the ON LINE mode.
Mode and OFF LINE mode.
OFF LINE mode to ON LINE mode when in the state
It cannot be switched to. -When the BUSY lamp is lit. -When the paper feed unit is open.・ When the head is not capped. -When an error is displayed. Note that immediately after the power is turned on,
It is assumed that (3) Paper setting method FIGS. 6 (A) to 6 (C) show fan-foam as a recording medium.
5 shows an example of a mounting operation when using blank paper.・ Check that the power is ON. Check that flap 400 is open. -Open the paper feed unit 300.・ Place paper P on each deck 310. Orientation is black rectangle mark (TOF mark)
(FIG. 6 (A)). Open the lower paper feed mechanism (FIG. 6 (B)). -The paper P is transferred between the lower feed roller 320 and the lower pinch roller 330.
Pass it through (Fig. 6 (C)).・ While opening upper roller 350, guide paper P to paper guide 3.
Pass through the upper roller along 80. At this time, the paper
It is left outside (FIG. 6 (D)).・ Close the lower paper feed mechanism so that the paper does not slack.・ Send paper by pressing the FF switch. If the paper is placed in the wrong direction at this time,
Stops with error because TOF mark is not found
You. -Close the paper feed unit 300. -No error is displayed on the display panel
Check. (4) Operation of display panel FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of the display panel 500.
Here, the reference number and name of the switch, the function and when it is enabled
And reference signs, names and points of indicators
The correspondence with the meaning at the time of lighting is as follows. Fig. 8 shows the display contents of the 7-segment display 550.
It is an explanatory view for explaining. In this example, the upper three digits
Status display showing the status with one digit 552
A part, the last two digits 554
Used as a play unit to respond to status and errors
Display as shown in the figure. Also, decimal point
555, 556 and 557, respectively, have successfully risen
When there are multiple errors and recording head assembly
Lights when 130 is not mounted. (5) Switch operation inside the main unit Fig. 9 shows the switches and display arranged inside the device.
1 shows an example of a vessel. Here, the reference numbers and names of the switches,
Correspondence with function and validity, and reference number of indicator
The correspondence between and the meaning at the time of lighting is as follows. 2.2 Supply and replacement of consumables Next, the mode of supply and replacement of consumables is as follows. (1) Removal of the paper P It can be performed by the following procedure.・ Check that the power is ON.・ All parts where the paper P is printed are outside the flap 400
FF switch 520 is pressed until paper P is sent. -Cut the paper P at the perforation. -Take out the paper P from the stacker 700. -No error is displayed on the display panel 500
Make sure that (2) Replenishment of ink The ink can be supplied by the following procedure (see FIG. 3). -Open the paper feed unit 300.・ Press the cap UP / DOWN switch 11 and press the head unit 1
Lower the cap 140 that protects 10 (press once and press
The cap goes down to the home position.)・ Pull out the cartridge 120.・ Insert a new cartridge. Cartridge 120B, 1
The arrangement of 20C, 120M, 120Y is black, cyan, magenta,
It is yellow.・ Press the cap UP / DOWN switch 11 to raise the cap 140
(If you push once, the cap will stay in place even if you release your hand.
Go up). -Close the paper feed unit 300. After raising the cap, use the pump to
Ink from the cartridge tank to the fixed tank (not shown)
You. When this fixed tank is full, the pump stops and the pump stops.
Lint is possible. As this fixed tank, for example,
Japanese Patent Application Nos. 58-244131 to 58-244138
Can be used. (3) Replacement of drain tank 800 FIGS. 10 (A) to 10 (C) show replacement of drain tank 800.
An example of the order is shown, and the process can proceed as follows.
You. a. Loosen the screw 852 (Fig. 10 (A)). b. Raise the lever 854 (FIG. 10 (A)). c. Pull up the drain tank 800 (FIG. 10 (B)). d. Pull out the drain tank cap 840 (Fig. 10
(C)). e. Install new drain tank in reverse order. f. Replace the drain tank with a new one
A sealing cap 842 can be attached. In the drawing, 820 indicates a waste ink tube.
I have. 2.3 Measures for printing defects The following are the causes of printing defects that can be removed.
There is 1. The ink in the head tip (nozzle) evaporates,
Got higher. 2. Air entered the nozzle. 3. Air has accumulated in the liquid chamber inside the head where ink is collected. These can be removed with a recovery operation. To perform the recovery operation, the cap 140 is joined to the head 100
Must have been. Press the internal recovery switch 12
This initiates this operation. During this operation, the recovery lamp 13 lights up.
doing. 3.1 Details of the paper feed unit Fig. 11 shows an example of the detailed configuration of the paper feed unit 300.
You. In the figure, first, 302 is a mounting base,
Each part of the unit inside 300 is assembled around this base 302
Can be 306 is a connection state with the recording unit 100
The panel facing this in the paper deck section 31
0, lower and upper paper feed mechanisms, their opening and closing mechanisms 34
0,370, platen 392, etc. are exposed through window 306A
In addition, the surface 306B corresponding to the unit 100 is
It serves as a gap reference plane for the unit 110. 302A and 302B use the paper feed unit 300 as the recording unit.
With a pivot axis for pivoting with respect to
is there. 1450 detects the connection with the recording unit 100.
1420 is a lock mechanism to ensure joining
It is. 3000 is a motor for driving rollers 320 and 350
Unit, 325 is a unit for transmitting the rotation of motor 3000.
G1, lower feed roller including bearing, retainer, etc.
Transmission mechanism, 355 is also a pulley G2, bearing, retainer
Transmission of upper feed roller including other slip plate 352
It is fine. (1) Paper Deck 310 FIG. 12 shows an example of the configuration of the paper deck 310. here
Reference numeral 311 denotes a recording paper stacking section, which initially sets the conveyance path.
Side plate 311A, which serves as a reference surface for regulating
Obtains a stable state of paper accumulation even for 100 opening / closing operations
And a bottom plate 311C provided with a convex portion 311B. In this example
The bottom plate 311C to the back side 311D (the opposite side of the paper mounting side)
To make the recording paper lean against the back side 311D.
To This allows the paper feed unit 300 to open and close
Paper falls off the stacking unit 311 due to the impact
Can be prevented. In the figure, reference numeral 315 denotes a recording paper holding plate,
Spring 314 which is stretched between the portion 315 and biased in the L direction in the figure.
Presses the recording paper toward 311A. Also, press 318
This is a screw for holding the position of the feed plate 315. This
The position of the recording paper is regulated at the uppermost stream of the transport path.
Thereafter, a stable transport state can be obtained. (2) Lower paper feed mechanism and lower roller open / close mechanism Fig. 13 shows the lower paper feed mechanism and lower roller open / close mechanism.
One configuration example is shown. A pin for pressing the recording paper P against the lower paper feed roller 320
The elastic member 3 is provided near the central portion in the axial direction of the
32, and the nip amount with roller 320
A state in which the recording paper P is sandwiched is obtained. 341 is a pinch
The opening used to separate roller 330 from feed roller 320
It is a closing lever. 342 is a side for supporting the pinch roller 330 at both ends thereof
It is a plate that allows the side plate 342 to rotate about the axis 343.
344 is a pinch roller arm having arms 344A and 344B.
And a pin protruding from the side plate 342 between the arms 344A and 344B.
345, and can be rotated around it. Thus
To support the pinch roller 330 by the arm 344A of the arm 344
Between the other arm 344B and the rising portion 342A of the side plate 342.
By stretching the spring 346, the feed roller of the pinch roller 330 is
The pressing force on the roller 320 is obtained. Also recorded on the side plate 342
Paper P is fed by lower paper feed roller 320 and pinch roller 330
A skew prevention roller 338 is installed at the position immediately before being pinched.
I can. The skew preventing roller 338 is brought into contact with the recording paper P.
This supports the weight of the recording paper P up to the paper deck 310.
And winding the recording paper P around the roller 320
The corners can be large. In addition, open / close lever 341
When rotating the side plate 342 around the axis 343 by operating
The pinch roller 330 and the skew prevention roller 338
It can be separated from the feed roller 320. The opening / closing lever 341 is a pin protruding from the pinch roller side plate 342.
Around the 342A, one end of which
Press to release the pinch roller 330 etc. from the feed roller 320.
Down button 341A was provided, and the other end was provided on the base 302.
A claw portion 341B that engages with the lock pin is provided. Also lever
A spring 349 is stretched between the button 341A of the 341 and the side plate 342.
As a result, the lever 341 is turned counterclockwise in the drawing.
Gives habit and maintains stable engagement
You. Also, the recording system unit side of the side plate 342 is associated with the cap 140.
Cam surface 342B, and the side plate 342 is
Rotate clockwise in the figure to feed roller 320 and pinch roller 3
Engage with 30. This allows the operator
Closes the lower paper feed mechanism after the recording paper P is loaded
If you forget the
As the lower paper feed mechanism closes, recording
It is possible to prevent paper P from jamming.
You. (3) Recording surface forming unit FIG. 14 shows a main part of the recording surface forming unit 390 including the platen 392.
An example of the configuration will be described. Here, 393 is provided on the platen 392
This is a hole, and the recording paper is
P is adsorbed on the platen surface to form a recording surface. 395 is
Swing the platen with respect to the base 302 and the panel 306
394 is a spring mounting portion provided on the platen 392,
396 is a guide hole for a pin 309 projecting from the base 302.
You. Reference numeral 397 denotes a sensor for detecting recording paper. As described later, the recording unit 100 and the paper feeding unit 300
When connecting to the print head unit 110,
Pin hits the panel 306 having the reference plane,
When the assembly 130 swings, the head unit 110
And the reference plane are kept parallel. At the same time, the platen 392
The spring 395 allows the assembly to be
Because it follows the swing of the assembly 130, it is restricted by the platen 392.
There is an appropriate gap between the recording surface of the recording paper P
Will face each other. (4) Motor unit FIG. 15 shows a configuration example of the motor unit 3000. here
Reference numeral 3002 denotes a motor, and the rotation of the rotating shaft 3004 is
06 and lower feed roller transmission mechanism 32 via belt 3008
5 to the associated pulley G20. G3 is the same as pulley G20
Pulley with a diameter smaller than that of the pulley G20.
G3 rotation transmitted to upper feed roller via belt 3010
The force is transmitted to the pulley G2 of the mechanism 355. Here, the gear ratio of each pulley is appropriately selected and
Roller 350 side is 2-3% lower than lower feed roller 320
A high rotational speed is transmitted. (5) Upper feed roller and its transmission mechanism FIG. 16 shows the upper feed roller 350 and its transmission mechanism 355.
One configuration example is shown. Here, 353 is the extension shaft 351 of the roller 350
Bearing that is provided at the
352A and 352B are attached to pulley G2 and shaft 351 respectively.
Slip plates provided, each fixed to shaft 351
Sliding with the ring 354 and the pulley G2. this
As a result, the rotational movement of the motor rotation shaft
Rollers 352B and 352B.
P is applied to upper feed roller 350 with proper tension
Will be raised more. (6) Upper pinch roller and paper guide FIG. 17 shows an example of a configuration around the upper pinch roller 360
You. 362 ₁ , 362 _Two Holds the pinch roller 360 at both ends.
362B for holding the recording paper P and
Limiting the displacement of the recording paper P in the width direction at the start of conveyance
This is a member having a portion 362A and the like. One of these parts is
The spring 372 of the roller opening / closing mechanism 370 (see Fig. 11)
Therefore, always push the pinch roller 360 toward the feed roller 350.
The movement of the opening / closing lever 374
Open the upper paper feed mechanism according to the operation. These exercises
It is also transmitted to the other member 362 by the connecting bar 364. This
The operator can mount the recording paper P in the state of
You. At this time, the leading edge of the paper is guided by the guide 380 and the part 362A.
It will be guided and positioned at an appropriate position on the transport path.
You. (7) Paper feed unit cover FIG. 18 shows an example of a configuration around the paper feed unit cover 308.
You. Here, 308A, 308B and 308C are recorded
Exit of the recording paper P (mounting flap 400), disc
Mounting hole for play panel 500 and handle lever 140
It is the mounting port of 0. 410 rotates the flap 400 around the axis 412 and sends it out
Flap lever for opening and closing mouth 308A, 420
This is an opening / closing control mechanism that regulates closing. 510 attaches the display panel 500 to the installation opening 308B
Mounting member. 710 is a stacker rail provided on the lower surface of the cover 308.
Move the stacker 700 in the F and B directions to
It engages with the abutting portion (described later) when it is slammed. Also, 720
Forms a groove for guiding the movement of the stacker 700
And a stacker 700 in the formed guide groove.
(See below). (8) Flap open / close operation FIGS. 19 (A) and (B) show the flap open / close control mechanism 42.
One configuration example of 0 is shown. Here, 422 is provided on the flap 400
Flap stay that can rotate around the axis 402
It has a curved portion 422A and a cam hole 422B. 424 on cover 308
Pivotable about a shaft 432 mounted on a fixed base 430
Ears 424A, which are rotors and can be
It has a pin 424B that engages with the cam surface of the cam hole 422B. FIGS. 20 (A), (B) and (C) show transmissions respectively.
With the mouth 308A closed, rotate the flap 400 to the predetermined position.
Moving, and locking the flap 400 to feed
Indicates that 08A is open. Turning the flap 400 from the state shown in FIG.
And rotate it clockwise in the figure to the position shown in FIG.
When it reaches, the cam 422B and the pin 424B engage, and the rotor 42
4 rotates counterclockwise in the figure around the axis 432, and FIG.
(A) (however, FIG. 19 shows the state shown in FIG. 20)
Is reversed). In this state, turn flap 400 in the direction to close.
When it reaches the position shown in FIG.
The ears of 424 engage the bent parts 422A of the flap stays 422
This engagement further rotates the flap 400 further.
(Counterclockwise in the figure) is blocked. That is, at this time
The flap 400 is locked, the outlet 308A is opened,
In this state, the recorded recording paper P can be sent.
During this transmission, the operator accidentally presses flap 400
Flap 400 locks in place
The outlet 308A is not closed because it is closed. When closing the outlet 308A, reverse the above procedure.
In order, the flap 400 is moved from the state shown in FIG.
Rotate clockwise to position at the position shown in FIG.
To release the locked state and close it again as shown in FIG.
Obstruction can be obtained. (9) Stacker mounting operation Fig. 21 shows paper feeding for explaining stacker 700 mounting.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the unit 300 as viewed from below. Where 722
Is a guide groove formed by the member 720, and 750 is a stacker 70.
It is a mounting part of 0. When mounting the stacker 700, the mounting section 750
Into the groove 722, and then rotate it 90 degrees.
So that the mounting part 750 does not fall out of the groove 722.
The stacker 700 abutment on the stacker rail 710
Let In this state, the stacker 700 moves in the directions F and B in the figure.
It becomes possible when using and not using the device.
The stacker 700 can be positioned on the F side and the B side.
I will be able to. Therefore, stacker 700 when not in use
Since it can be stored under the paper feed unit 300,
The volume of the device can be reduced. (10) Stacker structure Fig. 22 shows the stacker mounted below the paper feed unit 300.
Shows a longitudinal section when using the hook 700 (when projecting forward)
You. As shown in FIG. 22, the stacker 700 includes a stacker main body.
A support arm 701 rotatably supported above the
And a guide member 702 attached to the arm 701. Supporter
When the stacker is in use, the
Then, the guide member 702 is set at a predetermined position. You
That is, in this setting state,
The guide member 702 is larger than the lower extension line 703 of the inclined surface with the mouth.
Inside. The guide member 702 has a curved shape.
You. Further, the vertical front surface of the paper feeding unit 300 and the guide member 7
The horizontal distance d from 02 is in the range of 10 to 25 mm. like this
According to such a configuration, for example, the recorded fan hold paper
The continuous recording paper is sent out from the exit, and
Contact the curved part of the
The guide member 702 and the front of the paper feed unit 300
Fall into the stacker 700 from the gap between them and accumulate there
You. It is in this range that the distance d is numerically limited as described above.
If the recording paper is within the
It can be guided inside the stacker without protruding outside
Because. The guide member 702 is connected as shown in FIG.
It can also be turned down to make it unusable. 3.2 Paper feed unit lock mechanism and handle lever (1) lock mechanism FIGS. 23 and 24 show the paper feed unit 300, respectively.
Lock mechanisms 1420 and 1430 provided on the upper and lower sides of the
is there. 1422 and 1432 correspond to axes 1421 and 1431 respectively.
Around the recording unit 100
Lock lever having pawls 1422A and 1432A engaging with a stop member
It is a bar. 1423 and 1433 are springs, each of which has a lock lever.
-1422 and 1432 are rotated in the direction of engagement. 1424 and
1434 between the shaft 1421 and the pawl 1422A and the shaft 1
These pins are provided between the 431 and the claw 1432A.
The handle via wires 1425 and 1435, respectively
Connect to lever 1400. That is, handle lever 1400
Wires 1425 and 1435, respectively, in response to
Lock lever 1422 and
And 1432 rotate, and the paper feed unit 300 and the recording unit 100
The lock state with is released. (2) Handle lever FIGS. 25 and 26 show the handle lever 14 respectively.
00 and an example of the configuration of the transmission unit are shown. Where 1401
Is an operation handle, and a pin 14 connectable to the transmission shaft 1412.
02. 1403 is attached to handle lever mounting hole 308C
A member having a portion 1403A and a flange portion 1403B, 1404
Seal member provided on the flange portion 1403B, 1405 is a member 1403
To move the seal member 1404 to the hole 308C.
Spring to make close contact with 308C rim, 1406
This is a retaining ring that prevents the pin from falling off the 1402. You
That is, when the handle lever 1400 is attached,
1404 ensures dust-proofing near the mounting hole 308C
It is. The transmission shaft 1412 is supported by a bearing member 1414 and has a handle lever.
-It can rotate in response to the operation of 1400. 1415 is the transmission shaft
Wire connection members fixed to 1412
Has pins 1416 and 1417 that connect to pins 1425 and 1435
You. 3.3 Controller unit Fig. 27 shows an example of the configuration of the controller unit 200.
You. In this example, the top plate 260 of the controller unit is used.
The edge of the ventilation and wiring opening 262 in
Ink section from the recording unit 100
The controller unit 200
To prevent inflow of ink. Also leaked and stored
A hole 266 for removing ink is provided, and a tube
Connect 826. The tube 826 is exposed to the outside from the side plate 270
And connected to the tube 820 and leaked to the top plate 260
The ink is led to the drain tank 800. This
This prevents ink leakage from the recording unit 100
Thus, the inside of the controller unit 200 is protected. In this example, the tube 826 is connected to the tube 820.
But the ink collected by the cap 140 is all
Guide the ink on the top plate 260 and pass the ink from the hole 266 through the tube.
And lead it to the drain tank 800, the tube
The construction of the system can be very simple. 3.4 Recovery System (1) Cap Opening / Closing Mechanism FIGS. 28 and 29
3 shows a closed state and an open state of the cap 140. Where 141
A and 141B guide the vertical movement of the cap 140
Rail, 142A can rotate around the vertical axis of cap 140
Holding member slidable along the rail 141A.
You. 143B is connected / separated from the sliding member provided on rail 141B
Is a member that performs the following. 825 is installed below the cap 140.
Is a waste ink reservoir, and the tube 820 is connected.
You. According to such a configuration, during maintenance work of the cap 140, etc.
A sufficient work area will be secured.
Work becomes extremely easy. Also, according to this example, the cache
The loop 140 can rotate around one rail 141A.
And the color of the ink in the cap part
This can prevent the vine from being contaminated. In the figure, reference numeral 145 denotes the back of the cap.
The surface 145 is engaged with the cam surface 342B of the pinch roller side plate 342 described above.
Unit 1 with the pinch roller 330 open.
Below the cap 140 when the 00 and 300 connections are made
So that the lower paper feed mechanism is closed with the
To (2) Cap cover FIGS. 30 and 31 show the cap cover 15 respectively.
0 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration and engagement with the cap 140.
It is explanatory drawing which shows a relationship. Spring 1 for cap cover 150
51 gives the habit of always moving to the cap side. Also,
152 is a roller capable of engaging the portion 149 on the front of the cap 140
It is. The roller 140 and the portion 149 are connected by the cap 140 to the cap.
The engagement state is
The cover 150 is moved to the cap 140 side by the spring 151.
It moves and the cap 140 is covered. This
And protect the cap 140 from drying and dust.
Wear. When the cap 140 is moved, the rollers 152
Riding up, the cover 150 retreats against the spring force,
The cover 150 does not hinder the movement of the cap 140
Absent. (3) Capping of head unit The cap processing for the head unit 110 is shown in FIG.
In addition, it can be performed according to the processing procedure described later. Cap
In order to obtain an appropriate and secure engagement state in the
In this example, a recess 146 is provided on the front surface of the cap as shown in FIG.
And a head unit as shown in FIGS. 28 and 32.
On the side of the knit 110, a convex portion 136 that can be fitted into the concave portion 146 is provided.
I will keep it. Also, as described below, the head assembly 130
Since the movement behavior to the cap side is given, the processing described later
When the cap 140 faces the head unit 110 due to
Then, the convex portion 136 fits into the concave portion 146, and the cap 14
0 is prevented from moving, and the cap is
That the pump 140 is accurately and reliably positioned
It is possible to perform an appropriate recovery process. 3.5 Recording Head Assembly FIG. 32 shows an example of the configuration of the recording head assembly 130.
You. As shown, assembly 130 is associated with reference surface 306B.
Mating protrusion 132, protrusion engageable with front surface of platen 392
134, and a projection 136 that can be fitted into the concave portion 146 of the cap 140.
Is provided. 138 is the recording paper P by fan 390F
For backing up the adsorption to the platen 392
It is. The head assembly 130 is mounted on a movable base shown in FIG.
Attached. 3.6 Supporting the recording head assembly 130 in the recording system unit
Structure Fig. 33 shows the recording head assembly in the recording unit 100.
7 shows the disassembled state of the support structure of the rib 130. 160 is a fixed base, 170
Is a movable table provided on the fixed table 160 so as to be movable.
You. The recording head assembly 130 is fixed on the movable base 170.
You. A motor (pallet) for driving the movable base 170 is provided on the lower surface of the fixed base 160.
The driving mechanism 180 including the driving motor 180 is fixed. Drive mechanism 180
Of the motor shaft through a universal joint
The motor rotation is changed to linear motion.
The guide mechanism 181 to be replaced is connected. This guide mechanism 181
Is above the opening 161 formed in the approximate center of the fixing base 160.
It protrudes, and a part thereof is attached to the lower side of the movable base 170. did
Accordingly, the drive mechanism 180 moves through the guide mechanism 181.
To move the movable base 170. The movable table 170 is connected to the recording surface in the paper feed unit 300 (when
To move back and forth in the direction perpendicular to
The moving mechanism 180 is positioned and fixed on the fixed base 160, and the guide mechanism is provided.
181 is attached to the movable base 170. On the upper surface of the fixing base 160, before and after the opening 161
The guide rails 162 and 163 are fixed to the guide rails. Of this rail
The direction corresponds to the moving direction of the movable base 170. On the other hand, movable table 1
On the underside of 70, the front and rear
Install the idle rollers 171 and 172. Front guide roller
171 is located inside the front guide rail 162 and the rear guide
The roller 172 is located inside the rear guide rail 163,
Therefore, the movable base 170 is provided with these guide rails and guide rails.
Is regulated by the vehicle and moves on a predetermined road. On the upper surface of the fixing base 160, a first receiving member fixed to the lower surface side is provided.
The upper part of the roller 164 projects through the opening 165.
You. The axis of the roller 164 matches the moving direction of the movable base 170.
You. On the other hand, when the movable platform advances (when the robot advances to the recordable position)
, So that it can face the first receiving roller 164.
The second receiving roller 173 is fixed on the lower surface of the moving table 170. this
The axis of the roller 173 is orthogonal to the axis of the first receiving roller 164.
You. Further, the width of the front guide rail 162 is
Is substantially equal to the diameter of the front roller 171. Rear moth
The width of the id rail 163 is adjusted at the rear by the rear roller 172.
Of the rear roller 172 at the front thereof.
Larger than the diameter of. Therefore, when the movable platform advances,
The front roller 171 is moved by the front of the front guide rail 162.
The rear roller 172 is restrained and fixed and the rear guide rail
Since the movable table 170 is located at the front of the
It is possible to swing around the 171 in the horizontal plane. What
At this time, the movable table is placed on the first receiving roller 164 on the fixed table side.
The second receiving roller 173 on the side is placed.
Thus, the swing is performed more smoothly. Also this
Recording head assembly fixed to movable table 170 by swinging
Of the assembly 130 by the positioning front part of the
Extremely easy positioning operation with respect to the paper unit side reference surface
It can be done easily and smoothly. On the other hand, as shown in FIG.
When the moving table retreats, the movable table 170 is fixed to the fixed table 160.
Lock mechanism 183 is fixed. Lock mechanism 183 is Soleno
Id 184 and driven by the solenoid in a vertical plane
And a lock lever 185 that rotates. Lock
The lever 185 forms a groove 185A on the upper end of the pivot.
The lock lever 185 is provided through an opening 166 formed in the fixing base 160.
And protrudes to the upper surface side of the fixing base 160. On the underside of movable table 170
Secures the engagement pin 174. This engaging pin 174 is
170 When it retreats, it will reach just above the turning tip of lock lever 185
It is positioned as follows. Therefore, the movable table 170 retreats
At times, actuation of solenoid 184
The engaging pin on the movable base 170
Engage in end groove 185A. This allows the movable table 170
Therefore, the recording head assembly 130) is securely attached to the fixed base 160.
Actually fixedly supported (for example, when the recording head
Secure the assembly 130 to the recording head unit
). Connection between recording head unit 100 and paper feed unit
At the time of moving the movable table 170,
The recording head assembly as shown in FIG.
The positioning protrusion 132 on the front surface of the
It surely contacts the zero reference plane 306B. Furthermore, in this state
For positioning the front of the recording head assembly 130.
The platen 392 is pressed by another spring 134
The recording paper P regulated by the platen 392
Ensure recording surface is positioned with respect to nozzle of assembly 130
Is 4. Configuration of Control System FIG. 35 shows the electrical configuration of the entire image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration. In this figure, HC is recorded
Host computer that sends the image information to be transmitted via optical fiber
Computer. MD is a module that performs mutual conversion between optical signals and electrical signals.
Modulator / demodulator. CC is the communication controller and host
Image from data signal obtained from computer HC
Extracting only data (image data)
It fulfills the function of sending to IMM and IMS. MP is the main processor including the CPU, and
Performs various body controls. MC is a mechanical control including a CPU, which will be described later.
Communication with the head assembly mechanism
Or pulse motor M1 for feeding fanfold recording paper
・ DC motor M2 for raising and lowering the cap ・ Head assembly
Pulse motor M3 for moving the assembly back and forth in the horizontal direction
And the like. The recording head unit has four recording heads (Y, M, C, B)
Image obtained from the image memories IMM and IMS
Image form on recording paper (fanfold paper) based on data
Performing At this time, supply and recovery of ink to each part of the head
Processing is under the control of head assembly mechanism AM
Done in In this embodiment, each of the above blocks is different.
It is built on individual printed boards. In addition, image
Mori has a master and slave of one megabyte
Has storage capacity. Next, with reference to FIG.
An outline of the operation of the device will be described. First, when the power is turned on (step S1), the CPU
(MP, MC, AM shown in Fig. 35)
Checking unit memory check, port status, etc.
Perform some hardware checks. Next, the main control of the entire device is
Then, the system checks for various types of system errors, such as 1. Recording paper presence 2. Ink presence 3. Door open / close state 4. Recording head 110 installation state (Step S)
3). As a result, if it is determined that there is no error (step
S4), set to online mode and the host computer
Communication with the data HC is enabled (step S5). In online mode, from the host computer
The sent image data is stored in the image memories IMM and IMS.
When only the fixed amount has been accumulated, lower the cap and remove the head assembly.
Advance the assembly to the printing position and print (image formation)
Is performed (step S6). During the printing
Data is continuously received from the host computer HC
(That is, writing and reading of image data are asynchronous.
Is done). An error occurs during such a printing operation.
This is repeated unless it is generated (step S7). Also, the online mode is set in step S5.
If a specific switch is pressed while the
Off-line mode separated from host computer HC
(Step S8). Next, a test print described in detail later is performed (step
S9). The test pattern used in this test print is
It is stored in a ROM (not shown). Then, a predetermined amount of text
When the test pattern has been printed, the test
Stop the client. Then, set the device to online mode
To return, the switch may be pressed again (step S8
→ S5). If an error is detected in step S7,
The device is set to the offline mode (step S1
0). This error means that a paper jam has occurred,
There are no errors, so remove these error causes.
(Step S11), press a specific switch, and
The device is returned to the online mode (step S12). FIG. 37 shows the operation of this apparatus at the start of normal printing.
It is a flowchart explaining a product. First, when the power is turned on (step S20), the recording head is turned on.
Retract the assembly to the home position (step
Step S21), and then lower the cap (Step S22). So
After that, the recording head assembly is advanced by the pulse motor.
And stop at the print position corresponding to the specified number of pulses.
(Step S23). Then, head control for printing is performed (step
S23). FIG. 38 shows a cap on the front of the recording head assembly.
It is a flowchart which shows the control procedure for covering. First, move the printhead assembly to the home position.
Repel. At this home position, the assembly
Is reached from the home position sensor.
An output is obtained (step S30). Next, add +24 to the DC motor (drive means) for driving the cap.
The cap is raised by applying V (step S31). The cap moves up to the specified cap position (retracted position)
Sensor output will be obtained
At that point, change the voltage applied to the DC motor to + 5V.
(Step S32). This allows the cap to
Stop and balance the motor torque. After that, the pulse motor for driving the recording head assembly
Supply a predetermined number of pulses, thus calibrating the assembly.
(Step S33). The tip of the recording head assembly is already inside the cap
The DC motor for driving the cap.
Disconnect from the source (step S34). Thus, the cap
Is lowered by the action of its own weight, and the recording head assembly
Engage. Thus, the cap operation is completed. Next, with the host computer or host system
Communication with the image forming apparatus will be described. §Data format and type (1) Command data Data exchanged between the host system and the image forming apparatus
The format of the command data is as follows. Type 1 <FLAG><CLASS><N><CMD>
<FCS><FLAG> (N = 1) (No operand) Type 2 <FLAG><CLASS><N><CMD>
<OPR><FCS><FLAG> (N = 2) (with operand) Command data sent from the host system to the image forming apparatus
The types of data are as follows. E-top of form H-feed F-status request M-send command again N-transmission error W-initialize system I-command data sent from the image forming apparatus to the host system
The types of data are as follows. MEANING CODE OPERAND command / date received A status information send command again N-protocol error X status information (2) Image data The image data format is as follows. <FLAG><CLASS><N><DH><yellow image data (111 words)><DT><DH><magenta image data (111 words)><DT><DH><cyan image data (111 words) ><DT><DH><black image data (111 words)><DT><FCS><FLAG> (N = 452) The meanings of the symbols are as follows. §Communication protocol (1) status The host system sends command data and image data to the image forming apparatus.
Before sending image data, send a status request command to
You must check the status of the imaging device.
No. However, command data such as status request
This is not necessary when sending (“M”, “N”, “W”). The status word consists of 16 bits and has the following meaning:
One. Which bit of status to check depends on the command
Different for each model. Shown below is the command execution and
Status word when image data can be input
Is the state of each bit. (2) Command data The protocol for receiving command data is as follows. (3) In the case of image data From the reception of a print start command to the reception of image data
The protocol is as follows: §Communication error During communication between the host system and the image forming apparatus,
If the following process is completed, the host
The system has an error in the communication system hardware
You must take action for recovery. § When the data transmission speed cannot keep up with the printing speed The image data sent from the host system is
Printed after being temporarily stored in the internal buffer
You. The data transmission speed from the host system is the print speed
When this buffer is empty
Printing is interrupted. Buffer filled with image data
Then, printing is resumed. But even after 3 minutes
When the buffer is not filled with image data,
Cap is done. Also in this case, the buffer is
If is satisfied, printing is resumed. Next, the types of errors that occur in the image forming apparatus and
The treatment will be described. §Paper, head, and ink (1) Paper jam Paper jam occurred during printing or paper feeding. Ah
Or, a paper jam was detected when the power was turned on. Status: • OFF LINE mode. -Check print is not possible. treatment: (2) No paper Paper was used up during printing or paper feeding. is there
Or, it is detected that there is no paper when the power is turned on. Status: • OFF LINE mode. -Check print is not possible. treatment: (3) Paper setting error The paper orientation is incorrect. Status: • OFF LINE mode. -Check print is not possible. treatment: (4) No ink The sufficient amount of ink required for printing has been exhausted. Status: • OFF LINE mode. -Check print is not possible. -Recovery operation cannot be performed. treatment: (5) Recording head unit setting error When the power is turned on, even one recording head unit is set.
I knew it wasn't. Status: • OFF LINE mode. -Check print is not possible. -Recovery operation cannot be performed. treatment: §Temperature abnormality This unit has a temperature sensor, and the following
Perform the operation. § Power supply (1) Power fail A 115V AC voltage drop was detected. treatment: (2) Overload Current exceeding the rated current flows from the DC power supply unit in the unit.
Was. treatment: * The state differs depending on the cause of overload. (1) Mechanical controller MC hardware error Cannot be recovered by a mechanic other than the recording head assembly
Error occurred. treatment: (2) Head assembly mechanism AM hard error An unrecoverable error has occurred in the recording head assembly.
did. treatment: Finally, maintenance of the image forming apparatus will be described. §Switch in card rack The switch used for maintenance is mounted on the board in the card rack.
Is provided. The sequence is as shown in FIG. §Check print (1) Purpose of use Test that can be printed by the check print function
There are four types of patterns. Test putter in card rack
One of four types of patterns
Can be selected. These patterns are used for the purpose shown in FIG.
used. (2) How to use Check that the unit is in the following state. -No error has occurred.・ OFF LINE mode. -The BUSY lamp is not lit.・ The head is capped. -The paper feed unit is closed. By the test pattern changeover switch in the card rack
Select one of the four patterns. Press the CHECK switch on the display panel. Is displayed on the display panel and the BUSY LED turns on.
Light up. Check print starts after about 15 seconds. After the check print is completed, the machine switches to OFF LINE mode.
Yes, if no errors occur, normal operation
Can be continued. §Registration adjustment Print position deviation between each color by adjusting the ink ejection position of each color
This is an adjustment to eliminate. Dispensing using the register adjustment switch
Change the position and print misalignment with the test pattern (number 0)
Do it by checking. (1) Registration adjustment switch The print position is set in the direction (horizontal direction) perpendicular to the paper feeding direction.
Horizontal registration adjustment switch to adjust and parallel to paper feed direction
Vertical registration adjustment switch that adjusts the printing position in
There is a switch. a. Horizontal registration adjustment switch One switch for each color is provided. If the switch value is increased, the print position will be
(When the paper direction is up). Switch reading
Smaller, the print position is on the left (with the paper feed direction
Move to It can be adjusted in the range of -7 / 8mm to + 7 / 8mm in 1 / 8mm steps. b. Vertical registration adjustment switch The head of each color is divided into upper and lower two stages. Each color
In addition, adjustment switches for the upper head and the lower head are set.
Have been killed. The switch for the upper head is
Does not affect the print position (and vice versa). The switches for the upper head and lower head are each 2
Individuals are in pairs. One of the two is for coarse adjustment
(Adjustment in units of 1/2 mm), and the other one is for fine adjustment (1/3
Adjustment in 2 mm units). If the switch value is increased, the print position will
(When the paper direction is up). Switch reading
Smaller, the print position is higher (the paper feed direction is
Move to Adjustable in the range of -4mm to + (3 + 31/32) mm in 1 / 32mm units
it can. FIG. 41 illustrates the above relationship. (2) Adjustment procedure Step 1 Set all horizontal registration adjustment switches to the reference position (7).
Let Step 2 Set all the vertical registration adjustment switches to the reference position (coarse: 8, fine).
Key: Adjust to 0). Step 3 Set the test pattern changeover switch to 0. Step 4 Check printing is performed by pressing the CHECK switch. Step 5 Fold line pattern of the test pattern obtained in Step 4
Look at the department. Cyan, magenta and yellow lines are black
Measure how far left or right the line deviates from the line
I do. Step 6 Cyan, magenta, yellow according to the result of step 5
Operate the horizontal registration adjustment switch for each color. For example, the cyan line is two dots to the left of the black line.
(2 / 8mm), adjust the horizontal registration adjustment for cyan.
Turn the switch to 9 Step 7 Press the CHECK switch again to perform check print.
U. If adjustment is not enough, repeat steps 5-6
You. If the deviation between the colors in the horizontal direction has disappeared, step 8
Proceed to. Step 8 Upper head of the test pattern obtained in Step 7
Look at the part printed by. What we pay attention to is the bent part of the line pattern
And the entire linear pattern portion. Cyan, magenta and yellow lines are black
Measure how far the line deviates from the line up or down
I do. Step 9 Cyan, magenta, yellow according to the result of step 8
Operate the vertical registration adjustment switch for the upper head
You. Step 10 Check printing is performed by pressing the CHECK switch. Key
If not, steps 8-9 are repeated. Regarding the print part by the upper head, between each color in the vertical direction
If there is no deviation, go to step 11. Step 11 Linear pattern of the test pattern obtained in Step 10
Look at the printed area with the lower head. Under black, cyan, magenta and yellow respectively
The part printed by the side head is the part printed by the upper head.
To measure how far down or up
You. Step 12 Black, cyan, magenta according to the result of step 11.
Vertical registration adjustment switch for the lower head of each color
Operate. Step 13 Check printing is performed by pressing the CHECK switch. Key
If not, repeat steps 11-12. §Vop adjustment Head voltage (Vo
p) differs for each recording head unit (the same color
Even depending on the unit). Therefore, when the recording head unit is replaced,
Must be adjusted in the following procedure (Fig. 42 and Fig. 43).
reference).・ Specify to the Vop monitor terminal of the replaced recording head unit
(Left (black)-,
Right (red) +).・ While holding down the Vop monitor switch,
Adjust the volume to the voltage value written at the top of the unit. 5. Modified example of recording surface forming means Recording surface positioned with respect to recording head unit
Can also be formed as follows. First, in the example described above, the file provided in the assembly 130 is used.
Back up the recording paper P to the platen 392.
From the assembly 130 side to the platen 392 side
Was operated to blow air.
Is to adsorb the recording paper P to the front of the assembly 130.
The fan 138 is operated in the opposite direction. In this case,
In the front of the assembly 130,
Front of the assembly 130 of horizontal linear protrusions 115 arranged in
From the recording head is higher than the height of the recording head. Ma
A file for adsorbing the recording paper P to the platen 392
The operation of the 390F stops. By doing this,
To assemble the recording paper P by the suction action of the fan 138.
Adsorbs on the front of the rib 130, and by the linear projections 115
Maintaining the proper distance between the surface of the recording paper P and the recording head
And stable recording on the recording paper P can be performed.
You. In addition, while the fan 138 is continuously operated,
Of the temperature sensor provided in the recording head assembly 130.
The temperature inside the assembly 13 based on the results.
Control the heater for heating the recording head. [Effects] As described above, according to the present invention, cap means
Is finally positioned and secured by the fitting of the protrusions into the recesses.
Position of the recording means and the cap means relative to each other.
The degree of freedom is high, so there is no slight
Even if there is, the positioning of the two
Is finely adjusted and the misalignment is absorbed.
The cap means to the means easily and reliably
Can be stored in the
It is possible to perform uniform and high-precision capping.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 and FIGS. 2 (A) and (B) are perspective views showing an example of a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is an example of an internal configuration of a recording unit 100. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the paper feeding unit in an open state, and FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the paper feeding unit in an open state to explain the internal structure of the paper feeding unit; ) Is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of the internal configuration of the controller unit, FIGS. 6A to 6D are diagrams showing an example of a mounting operation when fanfold paper is used as a recording medium, and FIG. 7 is a display. FIG. 8 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of a panel, FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the display contents of a 7-segment display, FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of switches and indicators provided inside the device, FIG. Figures (A) to (C) show the procedure for replacing the drain tank. FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a detailed configuration of a paper feeding unit. FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a configuration of a paper deck unit. FIG. 13 illustrates a lower paper feeding mechanism and a lower roller opening / closing mechanism. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing one configuration example of a main part of a recording surface forming unit including a platen, FIG. 15 is a diagram showing one configuration example of a motor unit, and FIG. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a roller and a transmission mechanism thereof, FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration around an upper pinch roller, FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration around a paper feeding unit cover, FIG. (A) and (B) are diagrams showing an example of the configuration of a flap opening / closing control mechanism. FIGS. 20 (A), (B) and (C) show the state where the outlet is closed and the flap is rotated to a predetermined position. FIG. 21 is a view showing a state in which the flap is locked and a state in which the delivery port is opened by locking the flap. FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the paper feeding unit viewed from below for explaining the attachment of the stacker. FIG. 22 is a view showing a vertical cross section when the stacker attached to the lower part of the paper feeding unit is used. FIG. 23 and FIG. Figures show the lock mechanisms provided on the upper and lower sides of the paper feed unit, respectively. Figures 25 and 26 show examples of the configuration of the handle lever and its transmission unit, respectively. Figure 27 shows the controller unit. FIGS. 28 and 29 are views showing a closed state and an open state of the cap with respect to the cap cover, FIGS. 30 and 31 are perspective views showing examples of the configuration of the cap cover, respectively. FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a recording head assembly. FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an exploded state of a support structure of the recording head assembly in the recording system unit. FIG. FIG. 35 shows an example. FIG. 35 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the entire image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied. FIGS. 36, 37 and 38 show examples of the operation according to the present invention. FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an arrangement of switches, FIG. 40 is a diagram showing an example of a test pattern, FIG. 41 is a diagram showing a registration adjustment mode, FIG. 42 is a diagram showing a structure near a monitor terminal, FIG. FIG. 43 is a diagram showing an example of a head voltage adjusting mechanism. 100 Recording unit, 110B, 110C, 110N, 110Y Recording head unit, 120B, 120C, 120N, 120Y Cartridge tank, 130 Head assembly (recording means), 1
36 ... convex part, 140 ... cap (cap means), 146 ...
... recess, 150 ... cap cover, 200 ... controller unit, 210 ... power supply unit, 220B, 220C, 220N, 220Y ...
Vop monitor terminal, 230: Vop monitor switch, 240: Card rack, 250: Overload lamp. 300 Paper feed unit (conveyance unit), 310 Paper deck section, 320 Lower feed roller, 330 Lower pinch roller, 340 Lower roller opening / closing mechanism, 350 Upper feed roller, 360 ... Upper pinch roller, 370 ... Upper roller opening / closing mechanism, 380 ... Paper guide, 390 ... Recording surface forming unit, 400 ... Flap, 500 ... Display panel, 60
0… Viewing window, 700… Stacker, 800… Drain tank, 900… Pocket, 1000… First optical fiber connector, 1100… Second optical fiber connector, 1200… Power input connector, 1300… Power output connector, 1400 …… Handle lever, 1500 …… Power switch.

   ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page    (72) Inventor Makoto Takemura               3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo               Inside Canon Inc.                (56) References JP-A-50-120730 (JP, A)                 JP-A-58-67461 (JP, A)                 JP-A-58-65668 (JP, A)                 JP-A-59-145157 (JP, A)

Claims (1)

(57) [Claims] Conveying means for conveying the recording medium on which recording is performed, and having a length capable of discharging a liquid and performing recording collectively over the entire width of the recording medium, and having convex portions at both ends in the direction of the length. A recording unit that is provided and is movable between a recording position for performing recording on a recording medium conveyed by the conveyance unit and a retreat position retracted from the recording medium from the recording position; A concave portion which has a length corresponding to the length of the means and in which the convex portion can be fitted at both ends in the direction of the length is provided, and is joined to the recording means to protect the recording means. And a driving unit for driving the cap unit to move the cap unit along the transport direction of the recording medium by the transport unit. In the retracted position A moving step of moving the cap unit to a position facing the recording unit along the transport direction by the driving unit; and the recording unit moving from the retracted position to the recording position with respect to the cap unit. Is moved to fit the convex portion into the concave portion, and the driving of the driving device is turned off, and the cap device is lowered by the action of its own weight to maintain the engagement between the recording device and the cap device. A method for operating an image forming apparatus, comprising: a holding step.