JP5446228B2 - Liquid ejector - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a liquid ejecting apparatus that includes a plurality of liquid storage portions and has an ink stirring function.

2. Description of the Related Art As ink used in a printer device as a liquid ejecting device, for example, an ink using a color component that is insoluble or difficult to dissolve in a solvent is known. For example, pigment-based ink is a state in which fine particles of pigment as a color component are dispersed in a solvent such as water or a petroleum-based solvent, and the pigment is easily precipitated. For example, a white pigment has a specific gravity of about 4 and a metal pigment has a specific gravity of about 2 to 3, whereas the specific gravity of the solvent is less than 1, and the specific gravity difference between the pigment and the solvent is 1 or more. Tends to separate from the solvent and precipitate. Also, in the case of an ink using an insoluble or hardly soluble dye as a color component, the dye is likely to precipitate. When the color component is precipitated in this way, the ink is shaded, so that the ink with a uniform density cannot be supplied to the head, and the dark portion of the ink does not drip from the nozzle of the head, and nozzle clogging easily occurs. Problems such as dot brightness change occur.
Therefore, it is known to prevent sedimentation of color components by stirring or moving ink.
For example, a technology for stirring ink in an ink container (ink pack) using a stirring means (
For example, refer to Patent Document 1), a technique for circulating and moving ink (see, for example, Patent Document 2), a first ink container (ink tank), and a second ink container, and the 2 A technique for reciprocating ink between two ink containers (see, for example, Patent Documents 3 to 6) is known.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-200765 Special table 2008-513245 gazette JP-A-9-327929 Republished patent WO95 / 31335 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-234886 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-19137

However, in the case of a configuration in which ink is stirred using a magnetic stirrer like Patent Document 1,
A magnetic stirrer, which is an object other than ink, must be installed in the ink container. For this reason, there has been a problem in that the size of the ink container is increased, the configuration of the ink container is complicated, and the amount of ink stored in the ink container is reduced.
In Patent Document 2, since ink circulates only in one direction in the circulation path, ink stagnation occurs at the corners of the ink container (ink tank) or the ink remains attached to the inner wall of the ink path.
For this reason, there has been a problem that the density of the ink becomes thinner than the prescribed density.
In Patent Documents 3 to 5, ink moves only between two ink containers due to a difference in height between the ink liquid level of the first ink container and the ink liquid level of the second ink container, that is, a water head difference. It is. That is, only a part of the ink reciprocates between the two ink containers.
Only the part of the ink is stirred. That is, the stirring of the ink remaining in the ink container becomes insufficient, and the sedimentation of the color components of the ink in the ink container cannot be prevented.
In Patent Document 6, between two ink containers (between an ink tank and a diaphragm pump)
The ink that reciprocates is only part of the ink, and only part of the ink is stirred, and the ink in one ink container (ink tank) is open to the atmosphere. Since the gas is dissolved in the ink and bubbles are generated in the ink, there is a drawback that the bubbles block the ink flow path and the nozzle of the head, thereby causing ink ejection failure and printing failure. .
The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and without ink stirrer in the ink container, ink stagnation and adhesion, ink color component sedimentation, and ink ejection failure and printing failure. A liquid ejecting apparatus capable of preventing the above is provided.

According to the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the invention, the head that ejects the liquid, the first and second liquid accommodating portions that accommodate the liquid without being opened to the atmosphere, the first liquid accommodating portion, and the second liquid. A main communication passage that communicates with the storage portion via the head; a sub-communication passage that communicates the first liquid storage portion and the second liquid storage portion without passing through the head; the main communication passage; An on-off valve provided with a sub-communication passage, and a control means, wherein the control means controls the on-off valve and communicates the sub-communication passage with the first through the sub-communication passage. A first liquid replenishment control for replenishing the liquid from the one liquid reservoir to the second liquid reservoir, and a first liquid replenishment from the second liquid reservoir to the first liquid reservoir via the sub-communication passage. 2 replenishment operation alternately switching between the liquid replenishment control and the on-off valve. In the state where the main communication passage is communicated, the third liquid supply control for supplying the liquid from the first liquid storage portion to the second liquid storage portion via the main communication passage, and the main communication passage A mutual replenishment operation for alternately switching the fourth liquid replenishment control for replenishing the liquid from the second liquid reservoir to the first liquid reservoir via the main liquid passage, and the mutual replenishment via the main communication passage. in operation, the total amount of the liquid contained in the first liquid storage unit and the second liquid storage portion is stopped on the SL cross-dispensing operation when it becomes a predetermined value, stirring means in the liquid containing body In this way, a liquid ejecting apparatus can be obtained that can stir liquid by alternating liquid replenishment control and prevent liquid stagnation and adhesion, liquid color component sedimentation, and idling at the head.
The second liquid storage section is replaceable, and the control means is configured to control the liquid stored in the first liquid storage section and the second liquid storage section in the mutual supply operation via the main communication path . stop on SL mutually dispensing operation when the total amount reaches a predetermined value, the liquid contained in the second liquid storage portion may be transferred to the first liquid storage unit above.
In the liquid replenishment control in the mutual replenishment operation via the main communication path , the control means has a predetermined reference value for the amount of the liquid in the liquid storage unit being supplied to the other liquid storage unit. In this case, the reference value may be changed when switching to the other liquid supply control and the number of the mutual supply operations reaches a predetermined number.
In the liquid replenishment control in the mutual replenishment operation via the main communication path , the control means has a predetermined reference value for the amount of the liquid in the liquid storage unit being supplied to the other liquid storage unit. In this case, the control may be switched to the other liquid replenishment control so that the reference value of the first liquid container and the reference value of the second liquid container are different.

FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a printer apparatus as an example of a liquid ejecting apparatus of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 1, as a liquid ejecting apparatus, for example, a printer apparatus 1 includes an ink tank 2 (hereinafter referred to as a tank) that stores ink I (hereinafter referred to as ink without reference) as a liquid, An ink cartridge 3 that stores ink as liquid (hereinafter referred to as a cartridge), a head 4 that ejects ink, a main communication path 5A that connects the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 via the head 4, and the head 4 The sub-communication path 5B for communicating the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 with the tank, the tank side pump P1, the tank side air on / off valve V1, the cartridge side pump P2, the cartridge side air on / off valve V2, and the tank side ink outlet on / off valve. V3
A cartridge side ink outlet on / off valve V4, sub-communication path on / off valves V5a, V5b, a flow rate sensor Q1; Q2 as a detecting means, and a control means 11. In this embodiment, the cartridge 3 is defined as a first liquid storage unit, and the tank 2 is defined as a second liquid storage unit.

The tank 2 as the second liquid container and the cartridge 3 as the first liquid container are configured to communicate with each other through the main communication path 5A via the head 4, and the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 are connected via the main communication path 5A. Replenish ink with each other. The tank 2 and the cartridge 3 are configured to communicate with each other via the sub-communication path 5B without (without passing) the head 4, and ink is exchanged between the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 via the sub-communication path 5B. Replenish each other. The sub communication path 5 </ b> B is formed by a tank side main communication path 21 that communicates from the tank 2 to the head 4 and a cartridge side main communication path 41 that communicates from the cartridge 3 to the head 4.
That is, the operation of stirring the ink by reciprocating the ink between the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 can be performed separately in the main communication path 5A and the sub communication path 5B, which are parallel paths. That is, the main communication path 5A and the sub communication path 5B are provided as two independent ink paths for stirring the ink.
The control means 11 is connected to the main communication path 5A from either the tank 2 or the cartridge 3.
Alternatively, when ink is supplied to the other side via the sub-communication path 5B, control is performed until the ink on the ink supply side is reduced to a predetermined amount, for example, an empty state or a state close to empty. This control will be described later.

FIG. 6 shows the relationship among the tank 2, the cartridge 3, and the head 4 in cross section.
As shown in FIG. 6, the tank 2 is fixedly or detachably attached to a carriage (head attachment portion) IK that is a movable portion of the printer apparatus 1, and in this example, the tank 2 is replaced when ink is consumed. However, the exchanged type may be used. The tank 2 includes a container 15 that forms a tank-side pressure chamber 13 and a storage bag body 16 as an ink (liquid) storage body provided in the tank-side pressure chamber 13. The container 15 is formed of a non-breathable hard material such as hard plastic, and includes a container-side main ink inlet / outlet portion 17 that holds a bag-side main ink inlet / outlet portion 20 described later, and a bag-side sub-ink inlet / outlet portion 20a described later. The container-side sub-ink inlet / outlet port 17a to be held, the air intake port 18 that allows the inside of the tank-side pressure chamber 13 to communicate with the outside, and the air outlet port 19 that enables the inside of the tank-side pressure chamber 13 to communicate with the outside. With. The storage bag 16 stores the ink without opening it to the atmosphere. The storage bag 16 is flexible and non-conductive, such as butyl rubber, polysulfide rubber, epichlorohydrin rubber, high nitrile rubber, and fluorine rubber. The bag is made of a thin bag having a variable ink storage volume and made of a material having gas permeability, and includes a bag-side main ink inlet / outlet portion 20 and a bag-side sub-ink inlet / outlet portion 20a. The container 1 so that the bag side main ink inlet / outlet portion 20 passes through the container side main ink inlet / outlet portion 17 and faces the outside of the container 15.
5 and the one end opening of the tank side main communication passage 21 and the bag side main ink inlet / outlet portion of the storage bag body 16 so that the ink can communicate with the tank side main communication passage 21 and the storage bag body 16. 20 are connected. Further, the bag side sub ink inlet / outlet portion 20a is fixed to the container 15 so as to pass through the container side sub ink inlet / outlet portion 17a and face the outside of the container 15, and the ink is transferred to the sub communication path 5B and the containing bag body 16. One end opening of the secondary communication passage 5B and the bag side secondary ink inlet / outlet portion 20a of the containing bag body 16 are connected so that communication is possible.

Further, the other end opening of the air supply passage 23 and the air intake port 18 are connected so that air can be supplied into the tank side pressure chamber 13, and one end opening of the air supply passage 23 and the tank side pump are connected. The discharge port part 26 of P1 is connected. The suction port 22 of the tank side pump P1 is opened to the atmosphere.
The other end opening of the air discharge passage 27 and the air discharge opening 19 are connected so that the inside of the tank side pressure chamber 13 can be opened to the atmosphere or shut off, and the one end opening of the air discharge passage 27 and the tank side air opening / closing are connected. The valve V1 is connected. The flow rate sensor Q1 is attached to the tank side main communication passage 21 so that the tank side ink outlet on-off valve V3 can measure the flow rate of ink flowing in the tank side main communication passage 21. The tank side ink outlet on / off valve V3 is attached to the tank side main communication path 21 so that the tank side main communication path 21 can be opened and closed in the vicinity of the bag side sub ink inlet / outlet portion 20a in the tank side main communication path 21.

The cartridge 3 is detachably attached to the base of the printer apparatus 1. In this example, the cartridge 3 is replaced when the ink is consumed. The cartridge 3 includes a container 35 that forms a cartridge-side pressure chamber 33, and a storage bag body 36 that serves as an ink (liquid) storage body provided in the cartridge-side pressure chamber 33. The container 35 is formed of a non-breathable hard material such as hard plastic, and includes a container-side main ink inlet / outlet portion 37 that holds a bag-side main ink inlet / outlet portion 40 described later, and a bag-side sub-ink inlet / outlet portion 40a described later. The container side sub ink inlet / outlet portion 37a to be held, the air intake port portion 38 that allows the inside of the cartridge side pressure chamber 33 to communicate with the outside, and the air exhaust port portion 39 that enables the inside of the cartridge side pressure chamber 33 to communicate with the outside. With. The storage bag body 36 stores the ink without opening it to the atmosphere. The storage bag body 36 is flexible and non-conductive, such as butyl rubber, polysulfide rubber, epichlorohydrin rubber, high nitrile rubber, and fluorine rubber. It is formed of a thin ink bag with a variable ink storage volume formed of a material having gas permeability, and includes a bag side main ink inlet / outlet portion 40 and a bag side sub ink inlet / outlet portion 40a. The bag side main ink inlet / outlet part 40 is fixed to the container 35 so as to pass through the container side main ink inlet / outlet part 37 and face the outside of the container 35, and the ink is transferred to the cartridge side main communication path 41 and the containing bag body 36. One end opening of the cartridge side main communication passage 41 and the bag side main ink inlet / outlet portion 40 of the containing bag body 36 are connected so as to allow communication. Further, the container 15 is arranged such that the bag side sub ink inlet / outlet portion 40a passes through the container side sub ink inlet / outlet portion 37a and faces the outside of the container 15.
The other end opening of the secondary communication path 5B and the bag side secondary ink inlet / outlet part 40a of the storage bag body 36 are connected so that the ink can communicate with the secondary communication path 5B and the storage bag body 36. Is done.

Further, the other end opening of the air supply path 43 and the air intake port 38 are connected so that air can be supplied into the cartridge side pressure chamber 33, and one end opening of the air supply path 43 and the cartridge side pump are connected. The discharge port part 46 of P2 is connected. The suction port 42 of the cartridge side pump P2 is opened to the atmosphere. In order to be able to open or block the air inside the cartridge side pressure chamber 33,
The other end opening of the air discharge path 47 and the air discharge port 39 are connected, and the one end opening of the air discharge path 47 and the cartridge-side air on-off valve V2 are connected. The cartridge side ink outlet on / off valve V4 is attached to the cartridge side main communication path 41 so that the cartridge side main communication path 41 can be opened and closed in the vicinity of the bag side main ink inlet / outlet portion 40 in the cartridge side main communication path 41. The flow rate sensor Q2 can measure the flow rate of the ink flowing in the sub communication path 5B.
It is attached to the auxiliary communication path 5B. The auxiliary communication passage opening / closing valves V5a and V5b are attached to the auxiliary communication passage 5B so that the auxiliary communication passage 5B can be opened and closed. The sub communication path on / off valve V5a is provided in the vicinity of one end opening of the sub communication path 5B, and the sub communication path on / off valve V5b is provided in the vicinity of the other end opening of the sub communication path 5B.

In this example, the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 are different except that the cartridge 3 can be replaced, and the other configurations are the same. When the cartridge 3 is not used, the bag-side main ink inlet / outlet portion 20 is sealed with a sealing film (not shown). An ink supply needle (not shown) is provided at one end opening of the cartridge side main communication path 41.
In the above-described configuration, when the cartridge 3 is attached to the printer apparatus 1, the ink supply needle breaks the sealing film, so that the ink in the storage bag body 36 of the cartridge 3 is transferred to the hollow path of the ink supply needle. In addition, the ink is supplied to the head 4 via the cartridge side main communication path 41. When the cartridge 3 is replaced, the cartridge side ink outlet on-off valve V4 is closed by the control means 11. The cartridge 3 may be attached to the carriage IK. When a new cartridge 3 is mounted, a switch (not shown) is turned on, and a liquid replenishment operation described later is started.

The head 4 includes an ink chamber 24, a pressure chamber 25, a nozzle 28 serving as a liquid ejection / discharge port,
And an actuator 30. The one end opening of the ink chamber 24 and the other end opening of the tank side main communication passage 21 are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other, and the other end opening of the ink chamber 24 and the cartridge side main communication passage 4 are connected.
The other end opening of 1 is connected to be able to communicate. That is, the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 are connected to the head 4.
A main communication path 5A that communicates via the tank, a tank side main communication path 21 that communicates between the tank 2 and the ink chamber 24, a cartridge side main communication path 41 that communicates between the cartridge 3 and the ink chamber 24, and a tank side. An ink chamber 24 serving as an ink path for communicating the main communication path 21 and the cartridge side main communication path 41 is formed. One end opening of the pressure chamber 25 communicates with the ink chamber 24, and the other end opening of the pressure chamber 25 communicates with the nozzle 28. The actuator 30 has a pressure chamber 25.
It is formed by a piezo element or a heater element provided on the wall.

In the head 4, the ink supplied from the ink chamber 24 into the pressure chamber 25 forms an ink concave surface (meniscus) at the outlet of the nozzle 28, and the nozzle 30 is acted on by the action of the actuator 30.
The ink in the inside is extruded to form a drop, and the drop adheres to the print target, whereby printing on the print target such as paper is performed.

A stirring plate 65 called a baffle plate as shown in FIG. 7 is installed in the auxiliary communication path 5B.
The stirring plate 65A of FIG. 7A is continuously attached by attaching the spiral body 67 that forms a spiral path around the axis of the central axis 66 to the central shaft 66 so as to be continuous along the extending direction of the central axis. And a plurality of non-consecutive spiral paths are configured to obstruct the flow of ink. The stirring plate 65B in FIG. 7B is formed by combining the wire rods 68, and the wire rods 68 are configured to obstruct the ink flow. That means
The stirring plate 65 stirs the ink by causing a turbulent flow in the ink by interfering with the flow of the ink.

FIG. 2 shows changes in the ink amount IT in the tank 2 and the ink amount IC in the cartridge 3 and the ink amount IT in the tank 2 and the ink amount IC in the cartridge 3 during the mutual replenishment control during ejection through the main communication path 5A. The change in the total ink amount IK, which is the sum of the above and the generation timing of pulses P (pulses Pa and Pb) to be described later.
An empty state in the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 is detected by the flow sensor Q1. That is, the flow rate sensor Q1 has the ink amount IT in the tank 2 or the ink amount IC in the cartridge 3 as shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 5, when the ink changes to large and small and decreases to an empty state as a predetermined value (predetermined amount) and ink is not discharged, the main communication path 5A and the head 4 in the forward route A or the backward route B Even if ink remains, the flow of ink in the main communication path 5A is stopped. At this time, the flow rate is detected as “0”, and the empty state as a predetermined amount in the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 is detected. The indicated pulse P (pulse Pa, pulse Pb) is output from the flow sensor Q1. Pulse P
A is output from the flow rate sensor Q1 when the ink amount IC in the cartridge 3 becomes empty when ink is replenished from the cartridge 3 to the tank 2 in the route A, and ink is not replenished. The pulse Pb is output from the flow sensor Q1 when the ink amount IT in the tank 2 becomes empty when ink replenishment is performed from the tank 2 to the cartridge 3 in the route B, and ink is not replenished. The flow sensor Q1 is thus composed of a bidirectional flow detector, and the ink amount IT in the tank 2 or the ink amount IC in the cartridge 3 is empty during the mutual replenishment control during ejection through the main communication path 5A. Then, it has a pulse circuit that outputs a pulse P (pulse Pa, pulse Pb).

FIG. 4 shows changes in the ink amount IT in the tank 2 and the ink amount IC in the cartridge 3 and the pulses P (pulses Pc and Pd), which will be described later, during the mutual replenishment control when the ejection is stopped via the sub-communication passage 5B.
The timing of occurrence is shown.
An empty state in the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 is detected by the flow sensor Q2. That is, the flow rate sensor Q2 has the ink amount IT in the tank 2 or the ink amount IC in the cartridge 3 as shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 4, when the ink flow changes to large and small and decreases to an empty state as a predetermined value (predetermined amount), the ink flow in the sub-communication path 5B forming the forward route C or the return route D disappears. On the other hand, the flow rate is detected as “0”, and a pulse P (pulse Pc, pulse Pd) indicating an empty state in the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 as a predetermined amount is output from the flow rate sensor Q2. Note that, as shown in FIG. 4, when the ink is supplied from the cartridge 3 to the tank 2 by the route C as shown in FIG. 4, the ink amount IC in the cartridge 3 becomes empty and the ink is not supplied. , Output from the flow sensor Q2. The pulse Pd is output from the flow sensor Q2 when the ink amount IT in the tank 2 becomes empty when the ink is replenished from the tank 2 to the cartridge 3 in the route D, and the ink is not replenished. The flow rate sensor Q2 is thus composed of a bidirectional flow rate detector, and the ink amount IT in the tank 2 or the ink amount IC in the cartridge 3 is empty during the mutual replenishment control when the ejection is stopped via the sub-communication passage 5B. It has a pulse circuit that outputs a pulse P (pulse Pc, pulse Pd) when the state is reached. In this embodiment, the forward route C is defined as the first liquid supply route, and the return route D is defined as the second liquid supply route.

The flow rate sensors Q1 and Q2 used in the best mode can detect only whether or not there is a flow rate. However, the flow rate sensors Q1 and Q2 have no pulse circuit and output this flow rate to the control means 11 as an analog signal. There may be. In this case, the control means 11 detects the minimum value of the analog signal and detects that it has reached an empty state or a predetermined amount described later (detection 1 and determination 2 described later),
Perform predetermined processing.

As shown in FIG. 1, the control means 11 includes an injection time control means 11A and an injection stop time control means 11.
B. The injection time control means 11A includes an outward supply control means (outward route A setting) 51,
Return route supply control means (return route B setting) 52, mutual supply control means 53, pulse detection means 5
4 and a remaining ink level determining means 55. The injection stop time control means 11B includes an outward supply control means (forward route C setting) 51a, a backward supply control means (return route D setting) 52, a mutual supply control means 53a, and a pulse detection means 54a.

First, the configuration, operation, and control of the injection time control means 11A will be described. The pulse detection means 54
While detecting mutually the pulse P (pulse Pa, pulse Pb) from the flow sensor Q1,
Based on the output from the pulse detection means 54, the mutual supply control means 53 alternately drives one of the forward supply control means 51 and the backward supply control means 52 to set the supply route to the route A.
Alternatively, the route B is alternately set. The ink remaining amount determining means 55 executes step S7 described later, thereby performing the ink total amount IK (approximately the ink amount IC in the cartridge IC remaining in the cartridge and the ink amount in the tank remaining in the tank) shown in FIG. Total amount IK with IT
) Is detected by a determination method described later, and it is determined whether or not the detected value has decreased to the set ink remaining amount W. The injection-time control means 11A is output to the drivers 50 of the pumps P1 and P2 and the drivers 58 of the on-off valves V1 to V5a and V5b via the input / output interface 45, and based on the control value, the driver controls the pumps P1 and P2. The forward route A and the backward route B are formed by controlling the on-off valves V1 to V5a and V5b.

1 and 2, when the ink amount IC in the cartridge 3 serving as the first liquid container becomes empty in the state where the route A is formed, a pulse Pa is output from the flow rate sensor Q1, and the return path replenishment control means. 52 is driven to switch to route B, and ink is sent from the tank 2 to the cartridge 3 in this route B. In this route B, when the ink amount IT in the tank 2 becomes empty this time, a pulse Pb is output, the forward supply control means 51 is driven, and the route A is switched. In route A, since the pulse Pa is output when the ink amount IC in the cartridge 3 becomes empty, the same operation is repeated thereafter. That is, a mutual supply operation is performed. In this way, the forward route A and the return route B are alternately formed, and the ink reciprocates a plurality of times between the cartridge 3 and the tank 2, so that the ink is stirred at the same time as the ink is consumed by the head 4. As a result, ink stagnation and adhesion can be prevented so that the ink concentration can be maintained properly, and ink color components can be prevented from settling. In addition, since ink is ejected by the head 4 during mutual replenishment, the ink is consumed over time, and the total ink amount IK gradually decreases. As shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 2C, at the end of mutual replenishment, ink is ejected from the head 4 and consumed, and when the total ink amount IK decreases to reach the end of mutual replenishment, the total ink amount IK is obtained. When the remaining amount of ink reaches the preset remaining amount W, the mutual supply operation is stopped. Whether or not the total ink amount IK has reached the set ink remaining amount W is detected by whether or not the set number N of pulses Pa and Pb are counted by the ink remaining amount determining means 55 as will be described later. The Next, the entire amount of ink is transferred into the tank 2 and the ink end preliminary warning is displayed based on the end pulse Pae (end pulse of the pulse Pa) from the flow sensor Q1 after the mutual supply is stopped. This prompts replacement of the cartridge 3. Thereafter, the remaining amount of the ink transferred to the tank 2 is consumed so that the idle driving operation with the head 4 can be prevented. When the residual ink in the tank 2 is consumed and becomes “0”, an end pulse Pbe (an end pulse of the pulse Pb) is finally generated, thereby displaying the ink end main display and displaying ink out. Even if the flow rate sensor Q1 thus stops the mutual replenishment operation when the total ink amount IK becomes the remaining ink amount W, the end pulses Pae, Pb
It is activated to generate e.

Mutual replenishment control during injection will be described with reference to the flow shown in FIG. First, in step S0,
The control means 11 determines whether or not ejection is stopped (stop of printing operation by the head). When the control means 11 determines that the injection is not stopped (No in step S0 (during injection (during printing)))
In step S1, the injection control means 11A closes the sub-communication passage opening / closing valves V5a and V5b and opens the tank-side ink outlet opening / closing valve V3 and the cartridge-side ink outlet opening / closing valve V4. Open, with the tank side pump P1 and the cartridge side pump P2 both stopped, the tank side on / off valve V1 is opened to open the tank side pressure chamber 13 to the atmosphere, and the cartridge side on / off valve V2 is closed to close the cartridge side pressure. The chamber 33 and the atmosphere are shut off to keep the cartridge side pressure chamber 33 in a closed chamber. In step S2, the cartridge side pump P2 is driven to pressurize the inside of the cartridge side pressure chamber 33. As a result, a route A is formed, and the cartridge-side ink containing bag body 36 is pressed by the pressure in the cartridge-side pressure chamber 33, and the ink in the cartridge-side ink containing bag body 36 is sent out to the main communication path 5 </ b> A and the head 4. And it moves to the tank side ink containing bag body 16 side. When there is a flow rate in step S3 in the replenishment control of the route A (Yes in step S3), the ejection time control means 11A determines that the ink amount IC in the cartridge-side ink containing bag body 36 (referred to as the ink amount IC in the cartridge). It is determined that the cartridge is not in an empty state, and the driving of the cartridge side pump P2 is continued to continue the pressurization in the cartridge side pressure chamber 33, thereby continuing the route A forward supply control (step S2). In step S3, the ejection time control means 11A outputs a pulse Pa from the flow rate sensor Q when the ink amount IC in the cartridge becomes empty and the ink flow rate is exhausted, and the pulse detection means 54 detects this pulse Pa. In case (No in step S3;
Determination 1), it is determined that the ink amount on the cartridge side has become a predetermined empty state (pulse Pa)
The cartridge side pump P2 is stopped, the cartridge side on-off valve V2 is opened to open the cartridge side pressure chamber 33 to the atmosphere, and the tank side on / off valve V1 is closed to close the tank side pressure chamber 1
3 and the atmosphere are shut off and the tank-side pressure chamber 13 is kept in a closed chamber (step S4), thereby completing the route A forward supply control. At the same time, the route B is formed by the pulse Pa in step S5, and the tank side pressure chamber 13 is pressurized by driving the tank side pump P1. That is, the return route supply control via the return route B is started. When there is a flow rate in step S6, that is, when the pulse Pb from the flow rate sensor Q is not input (Yes in step S6), the ejection time control means 11A determines that the ink amount IT in the tank side ink containing bag body 36 is It is determined that the tank is not in an empty state, and the return side replenishment control is continued by continuing to drive the tank side pump P1 and continuing the pressurization in the tank side pressure chamber 13 (step S5). The injection time control means 11A
In step S6, when the ink amount IT in the tank becomes empty and the ink flow rate is exhausted, a pulse Pb is output from the flow rate sensor Q, and the pulse detection means 54 detects this pulse Pb (No in step S6). Judgment; Judgment 2), the process proceeds to step S7, and step S7
Then, the ink remaining amount determining means 55 determines whether or not the ink has decreased to the ink remaining amount W.

As a method of determining the total ink amount IK, that is, the ink remaining amount by the ink remaining amount determining means 55, in step S7, the number of times determination 1 and determination 2 are repeated within a certain (unit) time F is counted. Whether the count value has reached the set number N is determined. (The pulses Pa and Pb may be counted, and it may be determined whether or not the count value reaches the set number N.) If NO is determined in the determination in step S7, the process returns to the forward route replenishment control by the route A. The return route replenishment control by the route B is performed by a pulse P (pulse Pa,
Mutual replenishment control is performed based on the pulse Pb). The mutual supply control and the printing operation control are executed simultaneously in parallel, and a part of the ink passing through the main communication path 5A is supplied to the ink chamber 24 of the head 4 and consumed for printing. As the control proceeds, the total ink amount IK, that is, the total ink amount remaining in the printer 1 decreases (see FIG. 2).
. Accordingly, when the mutual replenishment control proceeds and ink is supplied to the ink chamber 24 of the head 4 and further consumed for printing, the time interval T at which the ink amount IC in the cartridge or the ink amount IT in the tank becomes empty becomes short. The cycle in which the determination 1 of No in step S3 and the determination 2 of No in step S6 are repeated is gradually shortened. That is, the number of repetitions of judgment 1 and judgment 2 per predetermined (unit) time F set in advance, that is, the number of occurrences of pulse P (pulse Pa, pulse Pb) increases. Therefore, in step S7, the control means 11 determines that the determination 1 and the determination 2 are repeated N times within a certain time F (Yes in step S7).
s), it is determined that the ink remaining amount as the total ink amount IK has reached the predetermined set ink remaining amount W, and the process proceeds to step S8 to stop the mutual supply. Thereafter, replacement preparation control is performed so that the cartridge can be replaced in the following steps. Note that the determination in step S7 is performed immediately after NO is determined in step S6, so the ink amount IC in the tank is empty.
Note that the length of the fixed (unit) time F is obtained by time-sharing the fixed time as shown in FIG. 2, and the determination 1 and the determination 2 are repeated several times within the fixed (unit) time F. Whether or not (pulse P
Whether or not a and the pulse Pb have reached the set number N is determined. The method of forming the time F can be easily configured by using a monostable multivibrator or the like, and the output of the monostable multivibrator is started at the start of mutual supply. And the counter activated within this time F is used to count judgment 1 and judgment 2 (pulse Pa, pulse Pb) to determine whether or not the set time F has been reached. Thus, it can be determined whether or not the ink remaining amount (ink total amount IK of the ink amount IT in the tank and the ink amount IC in the cartridge IK) has decreased to the set ink remaining amount W.
Note that the set number N is determined depending on the size of the set ink remaining amount W. Note that the total amount IK, that is, the remaining ink amount can also be detected by determining whether or not the time interval T reaches a preset length.

The set ink remaining amount W, which is the determination value, is corrected according to the viscosity of the ink to be used and the environmental temperature. The control unit 11 includes a correction table in which the ink remaining amount determination value and the ink viscosity are associated with each other, and a correction table in which the ink remaining amount determination value is associated with the environmental temperature. Then, the number of times of setting N is set based on the set ink remaining amount W which is a determination value by comparing the viscosity and environmental temperature of the ink input by the control means with the correction table.
Next, cartridge replacement preparation control for enabling cartridge replacement will be described. After it is determined Yes in step S7, the injection time control means 11A
In step S8, the pumps P1 and P2 are stopped, the tank side opening / closing valve V1 is opened to open the tank side pressure chamber 13 to the atmosphere, the cartridge side opening / closing valve V2 is closed, and mutual supply is stopped (flow rate sensor Q1). Is left active). In step S9, the cartridge side pump P2 is driven to pressurize the inside of the cartridge side pressure chamber 33. In step S10, the injection control unit 11A continues to pressurize the cartridge side pressure chamber 33 by driving the cartridge side pump P2 until an empty state, that is, a flow rate “0” is input from the flow rate sensor Q.
In step S10, the ejection time control means 11A moves the ink remaining in the cartridge 3 from the cartridge 3 into the sub-communication path 5B and the tank 2 and determines that the ink amount IC in the cartridge has become empty. In the case (No in Step S10), an ink end preliminary warning display is performed in Step S11. Cartridge 3 by steps S9 and S10
Since all of the ink is transferred to the tank 2, the cartridge 3 is set to be empty, and even if the cartridge 3 is replaced, the ink is not wasted. When the cartridge 3 is emptied immediately after the mutual replenishment is stopped, an end pulse Pa is output, and a preliminary display such as “ink is about to run out” is displayed in step S11. This preliminary display may be performed when the replenishment operation is stopped.
Even if the cartridge 3 is not replaced in step S12, the remaining amount of ink in the tank 2 transferred from the cartridge 3 is consumed, so that it is possible to prevent idling. If it is determined in step S12 that the ink remaining in the tank 2 has run out, the pump P is determined in step S13.
1. The pump P2 is stopped, the tank side on-off valve V1 and the cartridge side on-off valve V2 are closed, and the pump is completely stopped. Next, the ink end book display is performed on the ink end display 57 provided on the base of the printer apparatus 1 (step S14), and the user displays this ink end book display, for example, “cannot be used due to running out of ink”. It is possible to determine that the printing has been stopped by checking the display.
Accordingly, there is no problem if the cartridge 3 is replaced when the ink end indicator 57 performs the preliminary display of the ink end. However, even if the cartridge 3 is not replaced, the ink is transferred to the tank 2 and this ink is transferred. Can be prevented from being consumed.

Note that the maximum ink storage capacity of the storage bag body 36 of the cartridge 3 is the storage bag body 1 of the tank 2.
6 is smaller than the maximum capacity of ink storage. This is to prevent the overflow of ink from the tank 2 by allowing the entire amount of ink in the cartridge 3 to be supplied into the tank 2 when the cartridge 3 is mounted. Further, even when a new amount of ink in the cartridge 3 is transferred in a state in which the ink of the set ink remaining amount W is left as the residual ink in the tank 2, the overflow of ink from the tank 2 is prevented from occurring. Because of that.

Next, the configuration, operation, and control of the injection stop time control means 11B will be described. Pulse detection means 54
a detects mutually the pulse P (pulse Pc, pulse Pd) from the flow sensor Q2, and the mutual supply control means 53a is based on the output from the pulse detection means 54a, and the forward supply control means 51a and the return supply control. Either one of the means 52a is alternately driven, and the replenishment route via the sub-communication passage 5B is alternately set to the route C or the route D. First, the secondary communication passage 5
Ink amount IC of the cartridge 3 from the cartridge 3 to the tank 2 in the forward route C via B
Ink is supplied until becomes empty (0 level). Inversely, ink is supplied from the tank 2 to the cartridge 3 in the return route D via the sub-communication path 5B until the ink amount IT in the tank 2 becomes empty. The ink supply operation according to the route C and the route D is repeated. As a result, the ink is alternately supplied to the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 and stirred. In particular, since the stirring plate 65 is provided in the sub-communication passage 5B, the ink stirring effect by the ink supply operation via the forward route C or the backward route D is high.

As shown in FIG. 4, every time the ink amount IC, IT becomes empty, the pulse P from the liquid amount sensor Q2
c and Pd are output, and based on this pulse, the injection stop time control means 11B
And return route D are alternately switched. That is, the ejection stop time control means 11B supplies the ink as the liquid from the tank 2 as the first liquid storage unit to the cartridge 3 as the second liquid storage unit via the sub communication path 5B. And a forward route route as a second liquid supply route for supplying ink as liquid to the tank 2 as the first liquid storage portion from the cartridge 3 as the second liquid storage portion via the auxiliary communication passage 5B. C is set, and the forward supply control as the second liquid supply control for supplying ink to the tank 2 from the cartridge 3 in the forward route C, and the first for supplying ink to the cartridge 3 from the tank 2 in the return route D The return path supply control as the liquid supply control is alternately switched. Note that the start timer Tx generates a start signal St after a predetermined time has elapsed from the ejection stop (printing stop), for example, 24 hours or one week after the ejection stop (printing stop).

The mutual replenishment control when the injection is stopped will be described using the flow shown in FIG. Note that the time when ejection is stopped includes when the power is turned off or when the liquid ejecting head is stopped at the capping position even when the power is turned on. Moreover, the case where it is left unused as a device for a long period of time, for example, for months, is included.
When it is determined in step S0 in FIG. 3 that the injection is stopped (printing is stopped) (Yes in step S0), the control unit 11 shifts the control to the control of the injection stop time control unit 11B, and the injection stop time control unit 11B. Sets a start timer Tx (step S20). The start timer Tx outputs a start signal St to the injection stop time control means 11B after a predetermined time has elapsed since it was set (for example, 24 hours or one week later). In step S21, the mutual supply control means 53a of the injection stop time control means 11B determines whether or not the start signal St is input. When the mutual supply control means 53a does not input the start signal St (step S2
1), and waits until the start signal St is input. When the start signal St is input (Yes in step S21), in step S22, the tank side ink outlet on / off valve V3 and the cartridge side ink outlet on / off valve V4 are closed, and the auxiliary communication path on / off valves V5a and V5b are opened.
Further, in a state where both the tank side pump P1 and the cartridge side pump P2 are stopped, the tank side opening / closing valve V1 is opened to open the tank side pressure chamber 13 to the atmosphere, and the cartridge side opening / closing valve V2 is opened.
Is closed to shut off the cartridge side pressure chamber 33 and the atmosphere to keep the cartridge side pressure chamber 33 in a closed chamber. In step S23, the mutual supply controller 53a drives the cartridge side pump P2 to pressurize the inside of the cartridge side pressure chamber 33. As a result, the forward route C is formed,
The cartridge-side ink containing bag body 36 is pressed by the pressure in the cartridge-side pressure chamber 33, and the ink in the cartridge-side ink containing bag body 36 is sent to the sub-communication path 5B and moves to the tank-side ink containing bag body 36 side. . In the replenishment control of the forward route C, the mutual replenishment control means 53a detects the ink amount IC (the ink amount IC in the cartridge) in the cartridge side ink containing bag body 36 when the flow rate sensor Q2 detects the flow rate (Yes in step S24). Is determined to be in an empty state, and the drive of the cartridge side pump P2 is continued to continue the pressurization in the cartridge side pressure chamber 33, thereby continuing the forward supply control via the forward route C (see FIG. Step S23). In step S24, the mutual supply control means 53a
When the ink amount IC in the cartridge becomes empty and the ink flow rate is exhausted, the flow rate sensor Q
2 and the pulse detection means 54 detects this pulse Pc (No in Step S24; Determination 1), it is determined that the cartridge-side ink amount has become an empty state as a predetermined amount. The cartridge-side pump P2 is stopped, the cartridge-side on-off valve V2 is opened to open the cartridge-side pressure chamber 33 to the atmosphere, the tank-side on-off valve V1 is closed to shut off the tank-side pressure chamber 13 and the atmosphere. By keeping the pressure chamber 13 closed (step S
25) Ends the forward supply control (second liquid supply control) via the forward route C (second liquid supply route). At the same time, the return route D (first liquid supply route) is formed by the pulse Pc in step S26, and the tank side pressure chamber 13 is pressurized by driving the tank side pump P1. That is, the return path supply control means 52a starts the return path supply control (first liquid supply control) via the return path D. When there is a flow rate in step S27, that is, when the pulse Pd from the flow rate sensor Q2 is not input (Yes in step S27), the mutual supply control unit 53a determines that the ink amount IT in the tank side ink containing bag body 36 is It is determined that the tank is not in an empty state, and the return side replenishment control via the return route D is continued by continuing the driving of the tank side pump P1 and continuing the pressurization in the tank side pressure chamber 13 (step S5). In step S27, the mutual replenishment control means 53a outputs a pulse Pd from the flow sensor Q2 when the ink amount IT in the tank becomes empty and the ink flow rate is lost, and the pulse detection means 54 detects this pulse Pd. If (No determination at step S6; determination 2), the process proceeds to step S28, and when it is determined in step S28 that determination 1 and determination 2 are repeated a predetermined number of times, that is, via the forward route C. When the forward route supply control and the return route supply control via the return route D are alternately repeated a predetermined number of times, the pumps P1 and P2 are stopped and the on-off valves V1 to V5a and V5b are closed in step S29.

According to the best mode 1, since the ink is reciprocated between the cartridge 3 as the first liquid storage portion and the tank 2 as the second liquid storage portion, ink stagnation and adhesion are prevented and Concentration can be maintained properly, and the ink is squeezed out so that the ink in the ink container on the ink replenishment side becomes empty, so that the stirring effect of the ink is increased and the ink color component is effectively settled. Can be prevented.
The main communication path 5A is configured to communicate the cartridge 3 and the tank 2 via the head 4, and the sub communication path 5B is configured to communicate the cartridge 3 and the tank 2 without involving the head 4. Therefore, the ink can be agitated by performing the mutual replenishment control both when ejecting (when printing) and when ejecting is stopped (when waiting for printing). Further, since the mutual replenishment control for reciprocating the ink a plurality of times between the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 using the sub-communication path 5B when the ejection is stopped, the printing operation is not performed for a long time. The ink can be stirred regularly. In particular, since the stirring plate 65 is provided in the sub-communication passage 5B, a high ink stirring effect can be expected.
In addition, since the ink is stored in the storage bags 16 and 36 without being opened to the atmosphere, the generation of bubbles in the ink can be suppressed, and ink ejection failure and printing failure can be prevented.
In addition, since the bidirectional flow sensors Q1 and Q2 are used, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the ink in the ink container on the ink supply side has been emptied based on the output from one flow sensor. Further, since the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 are provided with the pressure chambers 13 and 33 for sending the ink in the ink containing body to the main communication path 5A side by the air pressure from the pumps P1 and P2, the mutual supply operation can be performed reliably. Further, since the cartridge 3 and the tank 2 are provided with a flexible ink container, the mutual supply operation can be performed reliably.

According to the best mode, within a fixed (unit) time F, the determination 1 and the determination 2 are counted to detect the ink amount and the total amount IK is detected, and the count value corresponding to the total amount IK is set. Number of times N
Step S7 is performed to determine whether or not to repeat only (whether the pulse Pa and the pulse Pb reach the set number N), and it is detected whether or not the total amount IK has reached the set ink remaining amount W. Ink remaining amount determining means 55 that performs the two-step detection operation is provided. As a result, the set ink remaining amount W can be accurately detected, the ink end preliminary warning can be displayed, and the cartridge 3 can be moved into the tank 2 and replaced with a new one while the cartridge 3 is empty. In addition, even if the printing operation is performed without immediately replacing the cartridge 3 at the time of the preliminary warning, the ink for the set ink remaining amount W is consumed by the head 4, so that the idling operation by the head 4 is performed. Can be prevented. Moreover, since the cartridge 3 is replaced with a new one after it is empty, a small amount of ink can be prevented from being wasted.
Further, as the flow rate sensors Q1 and Q2, a bidirectional detection type inexpensive flow rate sensor capable of detecting only whether or not there is a flow rate is used, and the set ink remaining amount W is accurately left in the tank 2 to remove the cartridge 3. Since it can comprise so that it can replace | exchange, cost can be reduced.
Further, the remaining ink amount can be determined by determining how many times the determinations 1 and 2 are repeated within the unit time F, that is, how many pulses are counted within the time F. The ink can be accurately detected and the ink can be accurately transferred into the tank 2.

Other form 1
As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the switching between the forward supply control and the backward supply control may be alternately performed every predetermined time Th when the injection is stopped. In this case, the start timer Tx and a route switching timer (not shown) are provided. The route switching timer generates a switching pulse Pt every time Th to set a route switching time.
As shown in FIG. 9, the mutual replenishment control when the injection is stopped according to the other form 1 is basically the same as the mutual replenishment control when the injection is stopped according to the best form of FIG. Instead of the determinations 1 and 2 using the pulse, the forward supply control via the forward route C and the backward supply control via the return route D are alternately repeated a predetermined number of times every set time Th by the route switching timer. (See steps S24A, S27A, S28A).
According to the timer control method using the route switching timer according to the other embodiment 1, the flow sensor Q
2 can be dispensed with, and switching between the forward supply control and the return supply control can be performed using a timer.

Other form 2
FIG. 10 shows the configuration of a printer apparatus according to another embodiment 2.
As shown in FIG. 10, air discharge paths 27 and 47 are provided in the air supply paths 23 and 43 so as to communicate with the air supply paths 23 and 43, and the on-off valves V1 and V2 are provided in the air discharge paths 27 and 47. Good.

Other form 3
11 and 12 show the configuration of a printer apparatus according to another embodiment 3. FIG.
In the case where the ink is an ink using a petroleum solvent, as shown in FIG. 11, the ink containing body for containing the ink in the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 is constituted by a container 60 formed of a hard material and having an ink containing volume unchanged. May be. In this case, as shown in the figure, the mutual replenishment control is performed by pressing the ink in the container 60 with the pressurized air from the pressure pumps P1 and P2, as in the configuration shown in FIG. 1 in the best mode. You may go. The ink will come into contact with air, but if an ink that does not cause air deterioration is available, that ink is used. Also. Although not shown, instead of the configuration of FIG. 11, air discharge passages 27 and 47 are provided in the air supply passages 23 and 43 so as to communicate with the air supply passages 23 and 43 in the same manner as in FIG. , V2 may be provided in the air discharge paths 27, 47. In addition, as shown in FIG. 12, mutual supply control may be performed by providing suction pumps 62 and 63 in the main communication path 5 </ b> A and controlling the suction direction of the suction pumps 62 and 63 by the control means 11.

Other form 4
FIG. 13 shows the configuration of a printer apparatus according to another embodiment 4.
As shown in FIG. 13, the ink container is constituted by a bag body having a variable ink storage volume formed of a non-permeable and flexible material, and does not include the pressure chambers 13 and 33. A tank 2 and a cartridge 3 may be used. In this case, the suction pump 62 is provided in the main communication path 5A.
63, and the replenishment control is performed by controlling the suction direction of the suction pumps 62, 63 by the control means 11.

Other form 5
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the mutual supply control of the other embodiment 5, and FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the relationship between changes in the ink amounts IC and IT and the output of the flow sensor in the mutual supply control of the other embodiment 5.
In the case where the ink containing body that contains the ink of the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 is constituted by the container 60 that is made of a hard material and has an ink containing volume that does not change, as shown in FIGS. In the body and the ink containing body of the cartridge,
A level sensor that outputs an analog signal may be used according to the amount of liquid in the ink container.
For example, a level sensor Sx that detects and outputs the liquid level ITa of the ink in the ink containing body of the tank 2 and a level sensor Sy that detects and outputs the liquid level ICa of the ink in the ink containing body of the cartridge, The analog signals ITb and ICb indicating the liquid level may be output, and the ink tank total amount IK may be detected by the ink remaining amount determination unit 55 of the control unit 11. That is, in the case where the analog signals ITa and ICa are used in FIG. 15, when the ink amount IC (ICa) in the cartridge is empty and is “0” (time point tm), the peak value of the ink amount IT (ITa) in the tank This peak value can be determined as the total ink amount IK at the time point tm. In addition, when the ink amount IT in the tank is empty and is “0” (
By obtaining the peak value of the ink amount IC (ICa) in the cartridge at time tn), this peak value can be determined as the total ink amount IK at time tn.
Alternatively, at any time t _f, also by summing the tank ink amount It _f and cartridge ink amount IC _f, it can detect the ink total amount IK.

Other form 6
14 and 15, the signals ITb and ICb from the level sensor and predetermined values (predetermined amounts) M1 and M that can be adjusted in size and stored in advance in the memory of the control means 11 are not shown.
2 (see FIG. 15) and mutual replenishment control may be performed. That is, the signals ITb and ICb
By controlling the mutual replenishment switching timing of the route A and the route B each time the ink reaches the predetermined values M1 and M2, it is possible to control the replenishment until the ink in the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 reaches a predetermined amount. Become. If both the reference values M1 and M2 are set to “0”, the ink in both the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 can be replenished until the empty state in the mutual replenishment control as described in the best mode. When the reference values M1 and M2 are set to a predetermined amount (value) other than “0”, the forward path supply control and the backward path supply control are switched while the ink in the ink container on either side of the tank 2 or the cartridge 3 remains. You can also
For example, as shown in FIG. 15, when only the reference value M1 is slightly increased from “0” and ink is supplied from the cartridge 3 to the tank 2 side via the route A, the inside of the ink container of the cartridge 3 is used. Replenishment control until a predetermined amount Z (corresponding to the reference value M1) remains,
When ink is supplied from the tank 2 to the cartridge 3 via the route B, it is possible to perform control such as switching from supply control to forward supply control until the ink container in the tank 2 becomes empty.

Other form 7
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the relationship between changes in the ink amounts IC and IT and time in the mutual replenishment control according to the sixth embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 16, until the number of mutual replenishment control reaches a predetermined number N3, N4, the replenishment control is performed with the liquid amounts IT and IC in the ink storage bodies of both the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 being left by a certain amount Z. In this way, when the number of mutual replenishment control reaches the predetermined number N3, N4, the replenishment control at that time is performed until the amount of ink in the ink containing bodies of both the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 is emptied and replenished. You may do it. Alternatively, until the time from the start of the mutual replenishment control reaches a predetermined time (t1, t2) set in a timer (not shown), the replenishment is performed while leaving a certain amount Z of the liquid in the ink container on the ink replenishment side. When the control is finished and the predetermined time (t1, t2) is reached, the replenishment control at that time replenishes the ink until the amount of ink in the ink container on the ink replenishment side becomes empty. You may do it. That is, the control means 11 replenishes the liquid between the ink containers, and each time the number of replenishment reaches a predetermined number or every time the mutual replenishment reaches a predetermined time, the liquid in the liquid container on the side where the liquid is replenished. Replenish until the volume is empty. In this case, since the mutual replenishment operation can be changed, ink stagnation and adhesion and ink color component sedimentation can be effectively prevented. Further, the mutual supply control can be switched quickly and ink can be supplied to the head 4 earlier, which is effective when the ink consumption in the head 4 is large. As the detection means, level sensors Sx and Sy that output analog signals according to the amount of liquid in the ink container are used, so whether or not the ink in the ink container on the ink supply side has decreased to a predetermined amount. Judgment can be made accurately by the output from the level sensor. Note that a level sensor is not limited as long as it outputs an analog signal.

Other form 8
The flow rate sensor Q1 may be configured by using a bidirectional analog signal output flow rate sensor of a type that supplies an analog signal corresponding to the ink flow rate to the control means 11 without performing pulse processing. In this case, the control means 11 compares the analog signal with a predetermined value (comparison level), and controls the outward supply control means 51 and the return supply control means 52 based on the comparison result. Configure.
According to this, if the predetermined amount is set to “0”, it is possible to switch between the route A and the route B when the flow rate is zero. In addition, by making this predetermined value variable and setting it to a state somewhat close to the empty state, it is possible to mutually supply ink while leaving some ink remaining.
Alternatively, by setting only one of the predetermined values to “0”, the tank 2 as shown in FIG.
Also, it is possible to control only one of the cartridges 3 to be empty.
Alternatively, in the same manner as described in the other embodiment 5, by using an analog signal, the total ink amount I
K can be detected and determined.

Other form 9
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the relationship between the change in the ink amount and the output of the flow sensor in the mutual replenishment control of the other embodiment 9.
As shown in FIG. 17, after the control means 11 inputs the pulse P from the flow rate sensor Q1, it shifts to the next replenishment control after the elapse of a certain time period Tx set in a timer not shown in the figure. Also good. As shown in FIG. 1, when only one flow sensor Q1 is provided in the ink flow path, when the control means 11 inputs a pulse P (pulses Pa, Pb) from the flow sensor Q1, the ink replenishment side is provided. In other mode 8, the flow rate of the route A or the route B becomes 0 and the pulse Pa or the pulse Pb is generated to control the ink in the ink container. After the means 11 inputs this, a narrowing operation is performed for a predetermined time Tx, and then the next supply control is performed. In this way, the squeezing effect of the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 can be improved, so that the ink existing in the ink container of the tank or cartridge can be more reliably extruded and stirred, and the ink stirring effect can be improved. Further, since the empty state can be maintained for a predetermined time Tx, the empty stop can be surely performed during this time, so that the ink stagnation and the stop effect can be expected.

Other form 10
FIG. 18 is a view showing a pressing means of a printer apparatus according to another embodiment 10.
In the case of using a non-permeable and flexible bag body made of a flexible material as the ink container, a pressure is applied to the ink container to push out the ink to the main communication path 5A. Mechanical pressing means 70A and 70B as shown in FIG. 18 may be used as the pressing means. The mechanical scissors 70A and 70B are configured such that the two rods 71 and 71 can change a predetermined angle in opposite directions to each other via the rotation center shaft 72. The ink containing bodies of the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 are sandwiched between the two free ends 71 a and 71 b of the two rod bodies 71 and 71 facing each other and are connected by a spring 73. A solenoid 74 is provided on the other end 71c side of the two rod bodies 71, 71 facing each other, and a magnetic body 75 is provided on the other end 71d side. Therefore, the control means 11 turns on and off the solenoid 74 of the mechanical rod means 70A provided in the tank 2 and the solenoid 74 of the mechanical rod means 70B provided in the cartridge 3 to mutually turn on the route A and the route B. Mutual supply control by can be realized.

Other form 11
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a printer apparatus according to another embodiment 11. In FIG. One ink container, for example
Ink is supplied to the head 4 only from the tank 2 via the main communication path 5A, and the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 are directly communicated with each other through the sub-communication path 5B that does not pass through the head 4 so that the main communication path 5A. The print control is performed through the auxiliary communication path 5B, and the mutual replenishment control is performed through the auxiliary communication path 5B. That is, the cartridge 3, the tank 2, and the head 4 are connected in series by a main communication path 5A as an ink supply path and a sub communication path 5B as an ink reciprocation path.
According to the other form 11, by performing the mutual supply control when the ejection is stopped, the ink can be stirred only when the ejection is stopped. Even when the printing operation is not performed for a long time, the ink can be stirred periodically.

Other form 12
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a printer apparatus according to another twelfth embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 20, the head 4 includes a sub tank 80 that can communicate with the ink paths 21 and 41, an ink chamber 24 that communicates with the sub tank 80, a pressure chamber 25 that communicates with the ink chamber 24, and a communication with the pressure chamber 25. The nozzle 28 and the actuator 30 may be provided. According to this configuration, since the sub tank 80 is provided, the amount of ink stored in the head 4 can be increased,
The continuous printing time can be extended.

Other form 13
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the relationship between the change in the ink amount and time in the mutual supply control of the other embodiment 13.
In the control described in FIG. 19 (other form 11), as shown in FIG.
2 may be set so as to gradually decrease as the ink usage time elapses. According to this, the frequency of mutual switching between the route A and the route B can be increased at the initial stage of ink ejection, and the ink stirring effect can be increased.

Other form 14
In addition, it is a determination timing for determining whether or not the determination 1 and the determination 2 are repeated N times (set number of pulses Pa and Pb is counted) every fixed (unit) time F.
As shown in FIG. 22, this determination is always performed when the cartridge 3 reaches the empty state (predetermined amount) (when the pulse Pa is generated), so that the entire amount of ink from the cartridge 3 is transferred to the tank 2. The mutual replenishment is always stopped when the ink in the cartridge 3 is transferred to the entire tank 2. Therefore, there is no need to transfer ink from the cartridge 3 to the tank 2 in separate steps S9 and S10, and useless operations can be omitted. Regarding the count of judgment 1 and judgment 2 (pulse Pa, pulse Pb), the relationship between the generation timing of judgment 1 and judgment 2 (pulse Pa, Pb) and time T is stored in advance in a memory such as a RAM (not shown). And this R
By AM, the number of occurrence timings of judgment 1 and judgment 2 in unit time F by going back from time T (
It may be configured to count and determine the pulse count number).

Other form 15
Further, as shown in FIG. 23, the control means 11 has an analog signal I indicating the ink amount IT in the tank.
When processing is performed by inputting the analog signal ICa indicating Ta and the ink amount IC in the cartridge, as shown in FIG. 23, every one of the analog signals ITa obtained by time-sharing the analog signal ITa equally. To obtain an integral value S, the integral value S can be handled as a value proportional to the total ink amount IK. In this case, the time G may be set broadly or finely as necessary by the adjusting means.

Other form 16
Also, the total liquid amount IK can be estimated by detecting the peak value R of the analog signal ICa or the analog signal ITa. The peak value (peak value) can be easily detected by differentiating the analog signal ICa and the analog signal ITa with a differentiating circuit.
In this case, the difference B between the previous peak value and the subsequent peak value is obtained and accumulated, or in the above-described integration embodiment 15, the difference between the previous integration value S and the subsequent integration value S. Therefore, the total amount of ink IK can be obtained by subtracting the above consumption amount from the known total amount of ink in the known cartridge 3 and tank 2. By determining whether or not the total amount IK reaches the set ink remaining amount W, the mutual supply stop control can be performed. Further, even if either one of the pulses Pa and Pb is counted, the total ink amount IK can be determined.
Alternatively, instead of the analog signals ITa and ICa, analog signals (signals that are not subjected to pulse processing) indicating the flow rate of the liquid flowing through the route A and route B in the main communication path 5A detected by the flow rate sensor Q. Even if the change is detected, the magnitude of the total ink amount IK can be estimated.
In addition, regarding the determination 1 and the determination 2, the magnitude of the total ink amount IK can be estimated even if the number of occurrences of either one is counted every unit time F.
In addition to the sensors Sx and Sy that detect the liquid level of these liquids, the flexible bag housed in the liquid container shrinks when the liquid is pressurized. A sensor that detects a change in shape at the time may be used, or a weight sensor that detects the weight of a flexible bag that changes according to a change in the amount of liquid may be used.
Further, during the mutual supply operation, there may be a power failure or the like, or the power may be turned off as necessary. During the mutual supply operation, data such as route A or route B, pulses Pa and Pb are always stored in the RAM.
If the replenishment operation is started based on the stored data at the time of power-on recovery, the recovery operation can be continued without any trouble.
In addition, the pumps P1 and P2 have been described as pressurizing the first and second liquid storage units. However, when the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 are in an empty state, the air pressure in the first and second liquid storage units increases, and the pump P
Since the load of the motor driving the first and second motors P2 increases, it can be determined that the first and second liquid storage portions are in an empty state also by detecting the load current at this time.
In the above case, when the air pressure increases due to the empty state of the first and second liquid storage units, the first and second liquid storage units are also detected by detecting a sudden increase in the pressure with a pressure sensor. It can be determined that it is empty.

Other form 17
As shown in FIG. 24, the sub communication path 5 </ b> B is configured to bypass the liquid ejection / ejection port of the head 4 in the head 4.
According to the other form 17, in the mutual replenishment control at the time of ejection, the ink stirring effect can be obtained by the ink passing through the sub communication path 5B in the head 4.

Other form 18
FIG. 25; As shown in FIG. 26, the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 are directly communicated with each other through the sub-communication passage 5B for reciprocating ink, and the intermediate portion 5C of the sub-communication passage 5B and the head 4 are communicated with each other through the communication passage. It was set as the structure made to do. In other words, one end is connected to the cartridge 4, the other end of the head side communication path 5 </ b> X having one end communicating with the head 4, one end connected to the tank 2, and the other end of the tank side communication path 21 a communicating with the tank 2. The other end of the cartridge side communication passage 41a communicating with the cartridge 3 is connected to communicate with each other, and an opening / closing valve V10 for opening and closing the head side communication passage 5X is provided at the other end of the head side communication passage 5X. The flow rate sensor Q2 is provided in either the tank side communication path 21a or the cartridge side communication path 41a.
Therefore, the tank side communication path 2 when the head side communication path 5X is closed by the on-off valve V10.
1a and the cartridge side communication path 41a form a sub communication path 5B for mutual replenishment operation for ink agitation. By the tank side communication path 21a and the head side communication path 5X when the on-off valve V10 is opened, A tank-side main communication path 21 that connects the tank 2 and the head 4 is configured, and the cartridge-side communication path 41a and the head-side communication path 5 when the on-off valve V10 is opened.
A cartridge-side main communication path 41 that allows the cartridge 3 and the head 4 to communicate with each other is formed by X.
Therefore, at the time of ejection, ink is supplied to the head 4 via the tank side main communication path 21 or the cartridge side communication path 41a, and when the ejection is stopped, mutual replenishment control is performed via the sub communication path 5B. The ink is agitated.
When supplying ink from the tank 2 to the head 4 via the tank side main communication path 21, the on-off valve V4 is closed and the on-off valves V3, V10 are opened. When supplying ink from the cartridge 3 to the head 4 via the cartridge-side main communication path 41, the on-off valve V3 is closed and the on-off valve V4,
Open V10. At the time of mutual supply control using the sub-communication passage 5B, the on-off valve V10 is closed and the on-off valves V3, V4 are opened.
According to the best form 18, the same effect as the best form can be obtained. In addition, the number of on-off valves can be reduced.

Other form 19
It should be noted that a consumption amount detecting means comprising a flow rate sensor Q4 may be provided in the head side communication path 5X connected to the head 4 in FIG. According to this, a value obtained by subtracting the ink consumption determined by the flow rate sensor Q4 from the known total amount can be detected as the total amount of liquid.

Other form 20
As shown in FIG. 27, the sub communication path 5B may be formed by a parallel path 5Y provided for the main communication path 5A. That is, the tank-side main communication passage 21 between the on-off valve V3 and the bag-side main ink inlet / outlet portion 20 and the cartridge-side main communication passage 41 between the on-off valve V4 and the bag-side main ink inlet / outlet portion 40.
May be provided by a parallel passage 5Y to provide a sub-communication passage 5B formed by the tank-side main communication passage 21, the parallel passage 5Y, and the cartridge-side main communication passage 41 that are communicated with each other.
In the other form 20, the same effect as the best form can be obtained. Further, since it is not necessary to provide the bag side auxiliary ink inlet / outlet portions 20a and 40a in the ink containing bag body, the configuration of the ink containing portion (tank 2 and cartridge 3) can be facilitated.

In each form mentioned above, flow sensor Q1 is provided in either one of tank side main communication path 21 and cartridge side main communication path 41, or both tank side main communication path 21 and cartridge side main communication path 41. Just do it. Alternatively, a remaining amount detection sensor for detecting the remaining amount of ink may be provided in one of the tank 2 and the cartridge 3, or in both the tank 2 and the cartridge 3. Alternatively, the flow rate sensor Q1 and the remaining amount detection sensor may be provided in a lead-out path that connects the ink container in the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 and the ink inlet / outlet part that leads the ink in the ink container.
Further, the empty state of the tank 2 and the cartridge 3 means a state in which replenishment is not possible even if the pressure is applied by the pumps P1 and P2, so that even if some ink droplets remain in the tank 2 and the cartridge 3, the empty state Can be handled as. Therefore, it includes an empty state or a state close to the empty state.
A pressurizing pump that pressurizes the pressure chambers 13 and 33 and a decompression pump that depressurizes the pressure chambers 13 and 33 may be provided separately.
As shown in FIG. 24, the stirring plate 65 may be provided in the auxiliary communication path 5B. That is, the stirring plate 6
5 may not be provided in the sub-communication path 5B and the main communication path 5A, but is preferably provided in at least one of the sub-communication path 5B and the main communication path 5A in order to enhance the stirring effect.

In the above embodiment, the ink jet printer apparatus has been described as an example. However, a liquid ejecting apparatus that ejects or discharges liquid other than ink and a liquid container that stores the liquid may be employed. The present invention can be used for various liquid ejecting apparatuses including a liquid ejecting head that ejects a minute amount of liquid droplets. In addition, a droplet means the state of the liquid discharged from the said liquid ejecting apparatus, and shall also include what pulls a tail in granular shape, tear shape, and thread shape. The liquid here may be any material that can be ejected by the liquid ejecting apparatus. For example, it may be in the state when the substance is in a liquid phase, and may be in a liquid state with high or low viscosity, sol, gel water, other inorganic solvents, organic solvents, solutions, liquid resins, liquid metals (metal melts) ) And a liquid as one state of the substance, as well as particles in which functional material particles made of solid materials such as pigments and metal particles are dissolved, dispersed or mixed in a solvent. In addition, typical examples of the liquid include ink and liquid crystal as described in the above embodiments. Here, the ink includes general liquid inks and oil-based inks as described in the above embodiments, and various liquid compositions such as gel inks and hot melt inks. As a specific example of the liquid ejecting apparatus, for example, a liquid containing a material such as an electrode material or a coloring material used for manufacturing a liquid crystal display, an EL (electroluminescence) display, a surface emitting display, a color filter, or the like in a dispersed or dissolved state. It may be a liquid ejecting apparatus for ejecting, a liquid ejecting apparatus for ejecting a bio-organic material used for biochip manufacturing, a liquid ejecting apparatus for ejecting a liquid as a sample used as a precision pipette, a textile printing apparatus, a microdispenser, or the like. In addition, transparent resin liquids such as UV curable resin to form liquid injection devices that pinpoint lubricant oil onto precision machines such as watches and cameras, and micro hemispherical lenses (optical lenses) used in optical communication elements. A liquid ejecting apparatus that ejects a liquid onto the substrate or a liquid ejecting apparatus that ejects an etching solution such as an acid or an alkali to etch the substrate may be employed. The present invention can be applied to any one of these injection devices. According to the present invention, control is performed so that the liquid in the liquid container on the side of replenishing one of the first and second liquid containers is replenished until the liquid is reduced to a predetermined amount. , Detecting means for detecting the amount of liquid in at least one of the second liquid storage parts or detecting the flow rate of liquid in the communication path, and based on the detection result, the total amount of liquid in the first and second liquid storage parts is determined. The necessity of the determination method characterized by the determination also has a necessary effect. In addition, the ink stop control is described as being performed based on the determination result of the determination unit, but instead of the ink stop control, only the ink end display may be performed. Alternatively, the ink end display may be performed before the ink stop control or after the ink stop control.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer device (best mode). FIG. The figure which shows the relationship between the change of the ink amount in a tank and a cartridge at the time of ejection, and the output of a flow sensor (best form). The flowchart explaining the operation | movement of the mutual supply control at the time of injection (best form). The figure which shows the relationship between the change of the ink amount in a tank at the time of ejection stop, and the output of a flow sensor (the best form). The flowchart explaining the operation | movement of the mutual supply control at the time of an injection stop (best form). Sectional drawing (best form) of an ink tank, an ink cartridge, and a head. The figure which shows a stirring plate (best form). The figure which shows the relationship between the change of the ink amount in a tank at the time of ejection stop, and the output of a flow sensor (other form 1). The flowchart explaining the operation | movement of the mutual supply control at the time of an injection stop (other form 1). FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer device (another embodiment 2). FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer device (another embodiment 3). FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer device (another embodiment 3). FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer device (another embodiment 4). The figure which shows mutual supply control (other form 5). The figure which shows the relationship between the change of an ink amount, and the output of a flow sensor (other form 5). The figure which shows the relationship between the change of the ink amount, and time in the mutual supply control at the time of ejection (other form 7). The figure which shows the relationship between the change of the ink amount in the mutual supply control at the time of ejection, and the output of a flow sensor (other form 9). The figure which shows the press means of a printer apparatus (other form 10). FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer device (another embodiment 11). FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer device (another embodiment 12). The figure which shows the relationship between the change of the ink amount, and time in the mutual supply control at the time of ejection (other form 13). The figure which shows the relationship between the change of the ink amount, and time in the mutual supply control at the time of ejection (other form 14). The figure which shows the relationship between the change of the ink amount, and time in the mutual supply control at the time of ejection (other form 15). FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer device (another embodiment 17). FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer device (another embodiment 18). The figure which shows the mutual supply control at the time of an injection stop and the time of injection (other form 18). The figure which shows the structure of a printer apparatus (other form 20).

Explanation of symbols

1 printer device, 2 ink tank (first liquid container),
3 ink cartridge (second liquid container), 4 heads, 5A main communication path,
5B Sub-communication path, 11 control means, 28 nozzles (liquid ejection / discharge port),
65 Stirring plate, V5a, V5b Sub-communication passage opening / closing valve.

Claims (4)

A head for ejecting liquid;
First and second liquid storage portions for storing the liquid without opening it to the atmosphere;
A main communication path for communicating the first liquid storage part and the second liquid storage part via the head;
A sub-communication path that communicates the first liquid container and the second liquid container without the head;
An on-off valve provided with the main communication passage and the sub communication passage;
Control means,
The control means includes
A first liquid replenishment control for replenishing liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container via the sub-communication path in a state where the on-off valve is controlled to communicate with the sub-communication path; A mutual replenishment operation for alternately switching between a second liquid replenishment control for replenishing the liquid from the second liquid reservoir to the first liquid reservoir via the sub-communication path;
Third liquid supply control for supplying liquid from the first liquid storage part to the second liquid storage part via the main communication path in a state where the on-off valve is controlled to communicate with the main communication path. And a mutual replenishment operation for alternately switching the fourth liquid replenishment control for replenishing the liquid from the second liquid reservoir to the first liquid reservoir via the main communication path,
In the cross-supply operation through the main communication passage, the upper Symbol mutual dispensing operation when the total amount of the liquid contained in the first liquid storage unit and the second liquid storage unit reaches a predetermined value A liquid ejecting apparatus that stops. The second liquid storage section is replaceable, and the control means is configured to control the liquid stored in the first liquid storage section and the second liquid storage section in the mutual supply operation via the main communication path . claim total amount is stopped on the SL cross-dispensing operation when it becomes a predetermined value, the liquid contained in the second liquid storage portion, characterized in that transferring the first liquid storage portion above 1 The liquid ejecting apparatus according to 1. In the liquid replenishment control in the mutual replenishment operation via the main communication path , the control means has a predetermined reference value for the amount of the liquid in the liquid storage unit being supplied to the other liquid storage unit. 3. The liquid ejection according to claim 1, wherein the reference value is changed when the number of the mutual replenishment operations reaches a predetermined number when the other replenishment operation is performed. apparatus. In the liquid replenishment control in the mutual replenishment operation via the main communication path , the control means has a predetermined reference value for the amount of the liquid in the liquid storage unit being supplied to the other liquid storage unit. In this case, the control unit switches to the other liquid replenishment control and sets the reference value of the first liquid storage unit to be different from the reference value of the second liquid storage unit. Item 4. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to any one of Item 3.

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