WO2013065367A1

WO2013065367A1 - Inkjet recording device and method for recording process thereby

Info

Publication number: WO2013065367A1
Application number: PCT/JP2012/069316
Authority: WO
Inventors: 井上　智博; 宮尾　明; 崇博有馬
Original assignee: 株式会社日立産機システム
Priority date: 2011-11-04
Filing date: 2012-07-30
Publication date: 2013-05-10
Also published as: JP5775423B2; JP2013095110A

Abstract

Provided are an inkjet recording device capable of keeping the inside of the device clean and a method for a recording process thereby. The device is provided with: an ink supply system; an ink collection system; a solvent gas circulation system; a temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of solvent gas flowing through a solvent gas circulation flow passage; a first temperature adjustment means (60) for adjusting the temperature of the solvent gas on the side of an ink container (I1) in accordance with whether or not a recording process is being performed; a second temperature adjustment means (70) for adjusting the temperature of the solvent gas on the side of a recording head (400) in accordance with whether or not the recording process is being performed; and a control means for controlling the first temperature adjustment means (60) and the second temperature adjustment means (70) in response to the input from the temperature detection means.

Description

Ink jet recording apparatus and recording processing method therefor

The present invention relates to an inkjet recording apparatus which performs recording processing by discharging ink from a recording head and a recording processing method thereof.

The inkjet recording apparatus records an image, characters, and the like on the recording target by discharging minute droplets (ink particles) of ink from the recording head and causing the ink to adhere to the recording target. In addition, the ink jet recording apparatus has advantages such as easy speeding up and small noise at the time of operation, and the demand for it has increased in recent years.

For example, Patent Document 1 describes an inkjet recording apparatus including a solvent separator connected to an ink container and provided with a cooling pipe through which a refrigerant flows. According to the technique described in Patent Document 1, a solvent gas (air containing a solvent) in an ink container is separated into a solvent (liquid) and air by the solvent separator, and the air is used as a print head (recording head) To recover the solvent as a liquid. Therefore, by supplying the recovered solvent to the ink container, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the proportion of the solvent in the ink, and to use the solvent efficiently.

Further, Patent Document 2 describes an ink jet recording apparatus in which a solvent gas which is suctioned and collected in an ink tank (ink container) is circulated and supplied to a gutter. According to the technology described in Patent Document 2, it is possible to prevent the decrease in the proportion of the solvent in the ink and to efficiently use the solvent by circulating and supplying all the solvent gas to the gutter. .

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open 7-125256 WO 2008/117013

However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, when the ink mist generated in the ink recovery flow path for recovering the ink discharged from the nozzle is contained in the solvent gas, the resin component of the ink is the solvent gas May adhere to the inside of the flow path (solvent gas circulation flow path) that supplies the gutter, which may cause ink clogging.

Further, the technology described in Patent Document 2 has a problem that the solvent gas is cooled and condensed in the solvent gas circulation channel, and the condensed solvent may spill out of the gutter to contaminate the inside of the recording head.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an ink jet recording apparatus that keeps the inside of the apparatus clean and a recording processing method therefor.

In order to solve the above-mentioned subject, according to the ink jet recording device concerning the present invention, temperature detection means which detects the temperature of solvent gas which flows through a solvent gas circulation channel, and whether recording processing is under execution or not The first temperature control means for adjusting the temperature of the solvent gas on the ink container side of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel, and whether or not the recording process is being performed, And second temperature control means for controlling the temperature of the solvent gas on the recording head side among the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation passage.

In the recording processing method according to the present invention, the temperature of the solvent gas on the ink container side and / or the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel depending on whether or not the recording processing is being performed, and / Alternatively, the temperature of the solvent gas on the recording head side is adjusted.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an ink jet recording apparatus for keeping the inside of the apparatus clean and a recording processing method therefor.

FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of an ink jet recording apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an explanatory view of an internal configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the input-output relationship of the information between a control apparatus and each circuit. It is sectional drawing of the ink container and the temperature control means installed in the said ink container. It is an end elevation of each gutter and each piping connected to the said gutter. It is sectional drawing of the temperature control means installed in a solvent gas circulation flow path. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of operation | movement at the time of a control apparatus making each temperature control means heat processing or cooling processing. FIG. 7 is an end view of a recording head and each pipe connected to the recording head in an ink jet recording apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the temperature control process by the side of a recording head in the inkjet recording device concerning 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flow chart which shows a flow of temperature control processing by the side of an ink container in an ink jet recording device concerning a 3rd embodiment of the present invention.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the part which is common in each figure, and the duplicate description is abbreviate | omitted.
In the following description, "ink" is a dye or pigment, a metal component, an additive and the like contained in a solvent (for example, an organic solvent), and a character to be recorded (for example, paper or metal) And forms an image. Incidentally, in many cases, the dye or pigment contained in the ink contains a resin component.
Further, "ink particles" indicate particles in which the ink is in the form of particles by an excitation source (not shown) described later in the recording head.

Since the solvent has volatility, most of the solvent is in a liquid state in the ink container storing the ink, but a part of the solvent is volatilized and is contained in the air above the ink surface. ing.
In the following description, “solvent gas” refers to a gas in which the volatilized solvent and air are mixed. In addition, it is assumed that “solvent gas” sometimes includes ink mist in which a part of the ink is in a mist form.

First Embodiment
<Configuration of Inkjet Recording Apparatus>
FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of the ink jet recording apparatus. As shown in FIG. 1, the inkjet recording apparatus 1 includes a main body 200, a cable 300, and a recording head 400.
The inkjet recording apparatus 1 is used when performing recording on a recording target F (see FIG. 2). The inkjet recording apparatus 1 is used, for example, when printing the date of manufacture, an identification mark, and the like on beverage cans successively transported by a belt conveyor (not shown) in the process of producing the beverage can.
The application of the inkjet recording apparatus 1 is not limited to the one described above, and there are various applications. Further, the appearance and the internal configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 1 are not limited to those described in FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and the like (modifications will be described later).

In the upper part of the main body 200, an electrical system component including a control device 5 (see FIG. 3) described later is incorporated. Further, the main body 200 is provided with a touch panel liquid crystal panel 201 which allows the user to input recording contents, specifications and the like, and to display an operating condition. Incidentally, display control and input / output control of the liquid crystal panel 201 are performed by the control device 5 described above.

On the other hand, at the lower part of the main body 200, an ink container I1 (see FIG. 2) is accommodated. In addition, when performing maintenance such as replenishment / discarding of ink, the ink container I1 can be pulled out from the main body 200 by opening the door 202 shown in FIG. In addition, each

valve

12, 32, 51 (see FIG. 2), each pump 11, 33 (see FIG. 2), each sensor (temperature sensor, pressure sensor, flow sensor, etc.) are installed under the main body 200 There is.
Note that the temperature sensor is installed in the main body 200, a temperature sensor (diagram for detecting a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature T ₁ of the main body 200 (not shown), the ambient temperature T ₄ of the main body 200 Not shown).

The cable 300 is for connecting the main body 200 and the recording head 400, and three tubes constituting

respective flow paths

10, 30, 40 (see FIG. 2) described later pass through the inside. Incidentally, the length of the cable 300 is, for example, about 2 to 6 m.

The recording head 400 discharges the ink flowing through the ink supply flow path 10 described later to the recording target F (see FIG. 2). Inside the recording head 400, the nozzle 15 (see FIG. 2) for forming the ink particles described above and electrodes for charging and deflecting the ink particles are accommodated. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, an opening 401 for passing ink particles Q _A (see FIG. 2) used for recording is formed at the tip of the recording head 400.
Incidentally, the recording head 400, a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature T ₂ in the recording head 400 (not shown) is installed.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory view of an internal configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus. An outline of the flow of the ink and the solvent gas in the ink jet recording apparatus 1 is as follows.
First, the ink flows from the ink container I1 shown in FIG. 2 in the direction indicated by the arrow in the ink supply flow path 10 (ink supply process). The ink is turned into ink particles by an excitation source (not shown), and is charged and deflected by electrodes to change the moving direction (charging deflection process). Incidentally, the ink particles Q _B which is not used for recording is collected in gutter 31, flows through the direction indicating the ink recovery flow path 30 with arrows, it is returned to the ink container I1 (ink recovery process).

In addition, the solvent gas in the ink container I1 flows through the inside of the solvent gas circulation channel 40 in the direction indicated by the arrow, and after being collected by the gutter 31, further flows through the ink recovery channel 30 in the direction indicated by the arrow. It is returned into the ink container I1 (solvent gas circulation process).
That is, the flow path indicated by reference numeral 30 in FIG. 2 functions not only as an ink recovery flow path but also as a solvent gas circulation flow path.

(1. Ink supply system)
The ink supply system includes an ink container I1 shown in FIG. 2, a supply pump 11, a supply valve 12, a filter 13, a pressure regulating valve 14, a pressure sensor P1, a nozzle 15, and the above-described devices. The ink supply flow path 10 through which the ink flows in the piping, and the control device 5 (see FIG. 3) are included.
The ink is stored in the ink container I1 to a predetermined height, and the opening end of the ink supply flow path 10 on the ink container I1 side is disposed below the ink liquid level I of the ink container I1.
The supply pump 11 is driven according to a command from the control device 5 to generate a negative pressure, thereby suctioning the ink stored in the ink container I1 and pumping the inside of the ink supply flow path 10 in the direction indicated by the arrow. The supply valve 12 is driven in accordance with a command from the control device 5 to open and close the ink supply flow path 10. Incidentally, for example, a two-way solenoid valve is used as the supply valve 12.

The filter 13 catches foreign matter mixed in the ink flowing through the inside of the ink supply flow path 10. The pressure control valve 14 is driven in accordance with a command from the controller 5 to adjust the pressure of the ink flowing through the ink supply flow path 10. The pressure sensor P 1 detects the pressure of the ink supplied via the pressure adjustment valve 14 and outputs the pressure to the control device 5. The nozzles 15 eject the ink flowing through the ink supply flow path 10 in a liquid column in a predetermined direction (a predetermined direction).
As described above, in the ink supply system, the ink stored in the ink container I 1 is pressure-fed toward the nozzle 15 in the ink supply flow path 10.

(2. Charge deflection system)
The charge deflection system includes an excitation source (not shown), a charge electrode 21, a ground electrode 22, a high voltage electrode 23, a base plate 24, a phase sensor 25, and a control device 5 (see FIG. 3). It is.
The excitation source is configured of, for example, an electrostrictive element (piezo element), and is installed in the nozzle 15. In addition, the excitation source causes a predetermined vibration in accordance with the voltage applied from the control device 5, and applies the vibration to the ink. Then, the liquid columnar ink (ink column) ejected from the nozzle 15 is divided in synchronization with the vibration as ink particles of a certain size by the vibration given from the excitation source. The charging electrode 21 charges the ink particles by applying a predetermined voltage (recording signal) when the ink particles are separated from the ink column. Incidentally, the charge amount of the ink particles is determined by the control device 5 based on the recording data inputted by the user via the touch panel liquid crystal panel 201 (see FIG. 1).

A predetermined voltage (for example, 5 to 6 kV) is applied to the high voltage electrode 23 according to a command from the control device 5 to generate a deflection electric field with the ground electrode 22. When the ink particles pass through the deflection electric field, they are deflected according to the charge amount. That is, the ink particles Q _A charge amount is relatively large, through openings 401 of the recording head 400, moves toward the recording target F. On the other hand, the ink particle Q _B charge quantity is very small, it is incorporated into the opening 30b of the ink recovery flow path 30 in the gutter 31 (see FIG. 5).
The base plate 24 is provided in the recording head 400, and is a member for fixing the nozzle 15, the charging electrode 21, the ground electrode 22, the high voltage electrode 23, the gutter 31, and the temperature adjusting means 70.

The phase sensor 25 is installed at a predetermined position in the ink recovery flow path 30, detects the charge amount of the ink particles recovered by the gutter 31, and outputs the charge amount to the control device 5. This is to input a recording signal based on the above-described recording data to the charging electrode 21 at an appropriate timing.
In this manner, in the charge deflection system, the ink particles are deflected in a predetermined direction according to the command from the control device 5 based on the print data input by the user, and the ink not used for printing on the print object F It has a particle Q _B to be recovered in the gutter 31.

(3. Ink recovery system)
The ink recovery system is provided with a gutter 31, a recovery valve 32, a recovery pump 33, a filter 34, an ink container I1, and the above-described devices installed, and the ink and the like flowing in the pipe as shown in FIG. It includes the recovery flow passage 30 and the control device 5 (see FIG. 3).
Gutter 31 has an opening 30b (see FIG. 5), from the opening 30b, fetches the not used in the recording ink particles _{Q B.} Here, in the vicinity of the opening 30 b (see FIG. 5) of the ink recovery flow passage 30 installed in the gutter 31, a negative pressure is generated by the recovery pump 33 described later. Therefore, the ink recovery flow path 30, the ink particles Q _B which is not used for recording, the air (solvent gas) containing a solvent in the neighborhood gutter 31 also becomes possible to simultaneously incorporated.
Incidentally, since the ink ejected from the nozzle 15 volatilizes a part of the solvent in the ink by touching the air, the inside of the recording head 400 is filled with the solvent gas.

The recovery valve 32 is, for example, a two-way solenoid valve, and opens and closes the ink recovery flow path 30 by driving according to a command from the control device 5. Recovery pump 33 is driven according to the instruction from the control unit 5, to suck ink particles Q _B and the solvent gas from the opening portion 30b of the gutter 31 by generating a negative pressure (see FIG. 5), an ink recovery flow path 30 Pump in the direction indicated by the arrow inside. As the recovery pump 33, for example, a diaphragm pump having an air flow rate of 150 to 200 mL / min is used. The filter 34 catches foreign matter mixed in the ink or the like flowing through the inside of the ink recovery flow path 30.

Note that, as shown in FIG. 2, the opening end on the ink container I1 side of the piping of the ink recovery flow path 30 is disposed above the ink liquid surface I of the ink container I1. For example, a Teflon (registered trademark) tube having an inner diameter of 2 mm and a length of 2 to 6 m is used as a connection tube for connecting the main body 200 and the recording head 400 in the ink recovery flow path 30.
Thus, in the ink recovery system, by generating the negative pressure in the vicinity of the opening portion 30b of the ink recovery flow path 30 (see FIG. 5), the ink takes in ink particles Q _B and solvent gas which has not been used for recording It is returned to the container I1.

(4. Solvent gas circulation system)
The solvent gas circulation system includes the ink container I1 shown in FIG. 2, the solvent gas circulation passage 40, the gutter 31, the ink recovery passage (solvent gas circulation passage) 30, and the

devices

32, 33 described above. , 34, temperature control means 60, 70, and the control device 5 (see FIG. 3).
As described above, in the air in the ink container I1, a part of the solvent (liquid) in the ink is volatilized, and the solvent is contained in a saturated state. In addition, the ink container I1 is in a sealed state except that the pipes for the ink supply flow path 10, the ink recovery flow path 30, the solvent gas circulation flow path 40, and the pressure release flow path 50 pass through. (See FIG. 4).

Of the three

flow paths

30, 40, 50 (see FIG. 4) whose opening ends are disposed above the ink level I, the ink recovery solvent 30 is supplied with ink and solvent gas by the pump 33 (see FIG. 2). Is being pumped. Therefore, when the pressure release valve 51 is closed and the pressure release flow path 50 is blocked, the internal pressure of the ink container I1 is increased by the solvent gas flowing into the ink container I1. Then, the solvent gas is pushed out to the opening in the ink container I1 of the solvent gas circulation channel 40 by the rise of the internal pressure, and flows in the solvent gas circulation channel 40.

Preferably, a Teflon tube with an inner diameter of 1 to 2 mm is used as the solvent gas circulation passage 40. If the inner diameter of the tube is larger than 3 mm, liquid tends to be accumulated in the tube and cause clogging, and if the inner diameter of the tube is smaller than 0.5 mm, the flow resistance becomes large and a large pressure is required to flow solvent gas. It is necessary.

The solvent gas that has flowed into the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 flows in the direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 2 and is released to the space in the recording head 400 from the opening 40 b of the gutter 31 (see FIG. 5). Here, the opening 40b of the solvent gas circulation channel 40 and the opening 30b of the ink recovery channel (solvent gas circulation channel) 30 are close to each other (see FIG. 5). Therefore, most of the solvent gas coming out of the opening 40b flows into the ink collection flow path 30 by the negative pressure generated near the opening 30b by the collection pump 33 (see FIG. 2). Then, the solvent gas that has flowed into the ink recovery flow path 30 is pressure-fed toward the ink container I1 together with the recovered ink.
By circulating the solvent gas in this manner, the volatile solvent can be used without waste, and the deterioration of the ink quality can be prevented.

Further, a predetermined position of the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400, a temperature sensor for detecting the solvent gas temperature T ₅ at the position (not shown) is installed.
Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the temperature control means 60 is installed in the ink container I 1, and the temperature control means 70 is installed in the solvent gas circulation channel 40 in the recording head 400. The temperature control means 60 can adjust the temperature of the solvent gas on the ink container I 1 side among the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 by performing heating or cooling. Similarly, the temperature adjustment means 70 can adjust the temperature of the solvent gas on the recording head 400 side among the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation passage 40 by performing heating or cooling. ing.
The details of the temperature control means 60 and 70 will be described later.

(5. Pressure relief channel)
As shown in FIG. 2, the pressure release channel 50 is in communication with the external space. In addition, when the ink jet recording apparatus 1 is operating without abnormality, the pressure release valve 51 installed in the pressure release flow path 50 is in a closed state.
As described above, the solvent gas flows into the ink container I1 from the ink recovery flow path (solvent gas circulation flow path) 30, and thereby, the cycle in which the solvent gas flows into the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 is established. . Therefore, the internal pressure of the ink container I1 is kept substantially constant in time.

However, if an abnormal situation occurs and the internal pressure of the ink container I1 rises and the pressure measured by the pressure sensor (not shown) installed in the ink container I1 becomes equal to or higher than the predetermined value, the control device 5 switches the pressure release valve 51 to an open state temporarily. As a result, the pressure in the ink container I1 abnormally rises, and the situation that the ink container I1 is broken can be avoided.

Next, an input / output relationship of information between the control device 5 and each circuit will be described.
As shown in FIG. 3, the control device 5 includes a CPU 501, a RAM 502, a ROM 503, a bus line 504, an interface 505, and circuits 506 to 513.
A central processing unit (CPU) 501 is a central processing unit that controls the inkjet recording apparatus 1. A random access memory (RAM) 502 is a rewritable memory that temporarily stores data and the like handled by the CPU 501 during program execution. A ROM (Read Only Memory) 503 is a read only memory that stores programs and control data required for the CPU 501 to operate.
The bus line 504 is a signal line for transmitting various signals to and from the CPU 501. The interface 505 mediates the input and output of various signals.

The pump control circuit 506 controls the operation of the supply pump 11 and the recovery pump 33 in accordance with a command from the CPU 501. The solenoid valve control circuit 507 performs operation control of solenoid valves such as the supply valve 12, the recovery valve 32, and the pressure release valve 51 (see FIG. 2) in accordance with a command from the CPU 501. The pressure detection circuit 508 detects each pressure based on a signal input from a pressure sensor P1 (see FIG. 2) installed in the ink supply flow path 10 or a pressure sensor (not shown) installed in the ink container I1. Are calculated and output to the CPU 501.
The excitation source circuit 509 generates an excitation signal based on the operating conditions of the nozzle 15 (see FIG. 2), and drives an excitation source (not shown) installed in the nozzle 15. The phase detection circuit 510 receives a signal from the phase sensor 25 (see FIG. 2) that detects the charge amount of the ink particles collected by the gutter 31, and determines the application timing of the recording signal.

The recording signal source circuit 511 creates a recording signal or the like of each ink particle based on the input recording data, stores it in the RAM 502, and outputs the recording signal to the charging electrode 21 based on a command from the CPU 501.
The temperature detection circuit 512 calculates a temperature and a temperature difference based on signals input from a plurality of temperature sensors installed inside and outside the inkjet recording apparatus 1 and outputs the temperature and the difference to the CPU 501. In the present embodiment, using a thermistor as a temperature sensor, an air temperature _{T 1} of the main body 200, the air temperature in the recording head 400 _{T 2,} the solvent gas temperature _{T 3} in the ink container I1, ambient temperature _{T 4} of the main body 200 measures the solvent gas temperature T ₅ in the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400. The temperature control circuit 513 controls the operation of the temperature adjustment means 60 and 70 installed in the main body 200 and the recording head 400, respectively.
Among the temperature sensor for the respective temperature, for the temperature sensors other than the temperature sensor 67 (see FIG. 4) for detecting the solvent gas temperature T ₃ in the ink container I1, not shown.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an ink container and temperature control means installed in the ink container.
As shown in FIG. 4, the respective pipes of the ink supply flow path 10, the ink recovery flow path (solvent gas circulation flow path) 30, the solvent gas circulation flow path 40, and the pressure release flow path 50 are of the ink container I1. The upper portion is penetrated, and one end of each pipe is opened in the ink container I1.
Further, the temperature adjustment means 60 includes a Peltier element 61, a heat radiation fin 62, a fan 63, a heat transfer material 64, and a heat insulating material 65. The Peltier element 61 is an element whose temperature changes in accordance with the voltage input from the temperature control circuit 513 described above. Incidentally, the Peltier device 61 functions as a cooler that cools the heat transfer material 64 or a heater that heats the heat transfer material 64 by switching the polarity of the input voltage.

The radiation fin 62 is a member made of metal (for example, stainless steel, aluminum or the like) installed in the Peltier element 61, and dissipates the heat generated from the Peltier element 61. The fan 63 is protected by a cover 66, and air is sent to the heat dissipating fins 62 to increase the cooling capacity. The heat insulating material 65 is disposed so as to cover the Peltier element 61 and the heat transfer material 64, and prevents the heat from leaking from the side surface of the Peltier element 61 to the outside.
The heat transfer material 64 is disposed in close contact with the Peltier element 61. The heat transfer plate 64a is integrally formed with the heat transfer material 64, and penetrates the side surface of the ink container I1 so as to be substantially parallel to the ink surface I.

The heat transfer plate 64a is installed such that its end (the end on the left side in FIG. 4) does not contact the pipes of the ink supply flow path 10 and the ink recovery flow path 30. Further, the heat transfer plate 64a is disposed so as to be separated from the ceiling side of the ink container I1 by a predetermined distance, and the open ends of the solvent gas circulation flow passage 40 and the pressure release flow passage 50 are arranged thereon. Incidentally, both sides of the heat transfer plate 64a (the front and back sides in the drawing of FIG. 4) have a predetermined distance from the side surface of the ink container I1 so that heat is not conducted from the heat transfer plate 64a to the ink container I1. It is set up just to be away.

By thus installing the heat transfer plate 64a, the contact area with the solvent gas flowing in from the ink recovery flow path 30 and flowing out to the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 is secured, and the solvent gas is efficiently heated or cooled. be able to. Further, by installing the heat transfer plate 64 a, mist-like ink mist generated from the outlet of the ink recovery flow path 30 and the ink liquid surface I flows into the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 and the pressure release flow path 50. You can prevent.

A temperature sensor (not shown) is provided between the heat transfer material 64 and the Peltier element 61, measures the temperature at the position, and outputs it to the temperature detection circuit 512 (see FIG. 3). It is supposed to be. Further, a temperature sensor 67 is provided above the heat transfer plate 64a. Temperature sensor 67 detects the temperature T ₃ of the solvent gas in the ink container I1, and outputs the temperature detection circuit 512 described above.
Thus, the solvent gas in the ink container I1 is heated or cooled by the heat transfer plate 64a and flows into the solvent gas circulation channel 40.

FIG. 5 is an end view of the gutter and each pipe connected to the gutter.
As shown in FIG. 5, the gutter 31 includes a gutter base 31a and a gutter block 31b, both of which are rigidly connected (for example, welding, bolting, etc.). Further, an L-shaped pipe 30 a that forms a part of the ink recovery flow path 30 is installed inside the gutter 31, and is closely fixed in the gutter 31.
Preferably, one end (opening) 30b of the pipe 30a protrudes a predetermined length (for example, 0.5 to 2 mm) from the side surface (left side surface in FIG. 5) of the gutter block 31b. This is among the ink particles Q _A used for recording, that amount of deflection to move the small gutter 31 nearly, in order to avoid colliding with the gutter block 31b. Incidentally, for example, a stainless steel pipe having an inner diameter of 0.8 mm is used as the pipe 30a.

Further, the ink recovery flow passage 30 formed by the pipe 30a communicates with the ink recovery flow passage 30 formed in the substantially horizontal direction inside the gutter base 31a, and the other end of the pipe 30a is made of ink or the like. O-

rings

30A and 30B are provided to prevent leakage.
The phase sensor 25 described above is connected near the outlet of the ink recovery flow path 30 formed inside the gutter 31, and the pipe 30 c is connected via the phase sensor 25.
The ink particles _{Q B} incorporated into the gutter 31 by the negative pressure of the recovery pump 33 (see FIG. 2) is a pipe 30a, the phase sensor 25, it flows through in the order of the pipe 30c, and finally ink container I1 (see FIG. 4 ) Are collected inside.

Further, as shown in FIG. 5, a pipe 40 a forming a part of the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 is connected to the gutter base 31 a and is in communication with a flow path formed in a U-shape in the gutter 31. By the way, O-

rings

40A and 40B for preventing leakage of solvent gas and the like are installed at the boundary between the gutter base 31a and the gutter block 31b in the U-shaped solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the gutter 31. It is done.
The solvent gas flowing from the ink container I1 (see FIG. 4) into the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 flows through the inside of the pipe 40a and is discharged to the outside of the gutter 31 from the opening 40b shown in FIG.

Here, as shown in FIG. 5, the opening 30 b of the pipe 30 a and the opening 40 b of the solvent gas circulation channel 40 are close to each other. Therefore, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 5, most of the solvent gas released from the opening 40b is taken in from the opening 30b of the pipe 30a by the negative pressure of the recovery pump 33, and the ink recovery flow path Flow path) 30 flows. Then, the solvent gas is collected in the ink container I1 (see FIG. 4).
Incidentally, as described above, the solvent gas in the ink container I1 flows into the solvent gas circulation channel 40 by the pressure of the solvent gas collected in the ink container I1 (see FIG. 4).

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of temperature control means installed in the solvent gas circulation channel. The temperature adjustment means 70 includes a Peltier element 71, a heat radiation fin 72, a heat transfer material 73, and a heat insulating material 74. The Peltier element 71 functions as a cooler that cools the heat transfer material 73 or a heater that heats the heat transfer material 73 by switching the polarity of the input voltage. In addition, the solvent gas circulation flow passage 40 is disposed to penetrate the heat insulating material 74 and the heat transfer material 73 so that the solvent gas flowing in the flow passage is heated or cooled.

Further, a temperature sensor (not shown) is provided between the Peltier element 71 and the heat transfer material 73, and the temperature at the position is measured and output to the temperature detection circuit 512 (see FIG. 3). .
The configuration of the temperature control means 70 is the same as the configuration of the above-mentioned temperature control means 60 (see FIG. 4), and thus the detailed description will be omitted.
As in the case of the temperature control means 60 (see FIG. 4), the temperature control means 70 may also be provided with a fan for cooling the radiation fins 72.

<Temperature control processing>
FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing a flow of operation when the control device causes each temperature adjustment means to perform a heating process or a cooling process.
In step S101, the control device 5 determines whether the inkjet recording apparatus 1 is executing a recording process. Here, "the recording process is being performed" indicates that the ink is discharged from the nozzle 15 (see FIG. 2).
When the recording process is being performed (S101 → Yes), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S102. When the recording process is not being performed (S101 → No), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S106. In step S102, the control unit 5, the temperature _{T 3} is determined whether a temperature _{T 5} or more. As mentioned above, the temperature T ₃ is the solvent gas temperature in the ink container I1, the temperature T ₅ is a solvent gas temperature flowing through the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400.

When T ₃ TT ₅ in step S102 (S102 → Yes), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S103. In step _S102, T 3 <case of _{T 5} (S102 → No), the processing of the control unit 5 proceeds to step S104. In step S103, the control device 5 heats the solvent gas by the temperature control unit 70 installed in the solvent gas circulation channel 40 in the recording head 400 and / or the temperature control unit 60 installed in the ink container I1. The solvent gas is cooled by
Of the three processes in step S103 (heating only on the recording head 400 side / cooling only on the ink container I1 side / heating the recording head 400 side and cooling the ink container I1 side), which process is adopted Is preset in the control device 5. In the setting, the air temperature _{T 1} of the main body 200, the air temperature _{T 2} in the recording head 400, it is preferably added as an element also set conditions such as ambient temperature _{T 4} of the main body 200.

Further, how much the heating or cooling is performed is previously set based on the properties of the ink and the like. However, for the heating, the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel 40 in the recording head 400 is heated to a predetermined temperature exceeding the dew point of the solvent in the solvent gas in the ink container I1. Incidentally, the dew point is stored in advance in a storage unit (not shown) of the control device 5 by a preliminary experiment or simulation. As a result, the solvent in the solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the recording head 400 is evaporated, so that condensation of the solvent can be prevented.

In step S104, the control device 5 determines whether the power switch of the inkjet recording device 1 is turned off. If the power switch is not OFF at step S104, that is, the recording process is continued (S104 → No), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S105. Controller 5 in step S105, the predetermined time _{t 1} from the temperature _T 3, _{T 5} the time measured in step S102 it is determined whether the elapsed.
In step S105, if the predetermined time _{t 1} has elapsed (S105 → Yes), the processing of the control unit 5 returns to step S102. On the other hand, in step S105, if the predetermined time _{t 1} has not elapsed (S105 → No), the controller 5 repeats the processing of step S105.

That is, the processing of steps S101 ~ S105 is a solvent gas temperature _{T 5} flowing through the solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the recording head 400, to be higher than the solvent gas temperature _{T 3} in the ink container I1 The purpose is that.

On the other hand, in step S101, if the recording process was stopped (step S101 → No), the control unit 5, a solvent gas temperature _{T 3} in the ink container I1, solvent gas circulation flow path in the recording head 400 40 the determines or less solvent gas temperature T ₅ flowing through (step S106). Incidentally, when the recording process is stopped, the supply pump 11 shown in FIG. 2 is stopped but the recovery pump 33 is operated.
If T ₃ ≦ T ₅ in step S106 (S106 → Yes), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S107. In step _S106, when it is _{T 3> T 5 (S106 →} No), the processing of the control unit 5 proceeds to step S108. In step S107, the control device 5 cools the solvent gas by the temperature control unit 70 installed in the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400 and / or the temperature control unit 60 installed in the ink container I1. Heat the solvent gas by
In the cooling, the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the recording head 400 is cooled to a temperature lower than the dew point of the solvent in the solvent gas in the ink container I1. This is because the solvent is condensed (condensed) in the solvent gas circulation channel 40 in the recording head 400. Since the processes of steps S108 and S109 are the same as the processes of steps S104 and S105 described above, the description will be omitted.

In other words, the process of step S101, S106 ~ S109 are the temperature _{T 5} of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the recording head 400 is lower than the solvent gas temperature _{T 3} in the ink container I1 The purpose is to

<Effect>
In the inkjet recording apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, when the recording process is being performed (that is, when the ink is discharged from the nozzle 15), the ink passes through the solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the recording head 400. temperature T ₅ of the solvent gas flow is set to be higher than the solvent gas temperature T ₃ in the ink container I1.
Thus, condensation of the solvent gas in the solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the recording head 400 can be prevented. This is because the higher the temperature, the higher the saturated vapor pressure of the solvent gas, and the solvent flowing through the solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the recording head 400 is evaporated. In addition, when the solvent gas is cooled by the temperature control means 60 installed in the ink container I1, the saturated vapor pressure in the ink container I1 is lowered, and the amount of solvent in the solvent gas is reduced. It is possible to prevent condensation of the solvent in the solvent gas circulation passage 40.

Therefore, since the solvent condensed in the recording head 400 does not flow out from the opening 40 b (see FIG. 5), the inside of the recording head 400 can be kept clean.
Incidentally, there is a possibility that the solvent condenses in the ink container I1 whose temperature is relatively low. In this case, the condensed solvent is mixed with the ink stored in the ink container I1.

On the other hand, if it is stopped in the recording process (i.e., when the ink is not discharged from the nozzle 15), the temperature T ₅ of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400, to be lower than the solvent gas temperature T ₃ in the ink container I1.
When the temperature of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the recording head 400 falls below the dew point, the solvent condenses.

In the solvent gas circulation flow path 40, the above-described resinous ink mist may be adhered. If the ink mist continues to adhere, the solvent gas circulation passage 40 may be clogged. Here, the condensed solvent (liquid) dissolves the ink mist, and flows through the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 by the pressure of the recovery pump 33 while cleaning foreign substances such as dust. Therefore, the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 can be cleaned, and the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 can be maintained in a clean state.

Further, by using the

Peltier elements

61 and 71 as the temperature control means 60 and 70, one element can function as a heating means and a cooling means by switching the polarity of the applied voltage. Therefore, the space occupied by the temperature control means 60 and 70 can be reduced, and the ink jet recording apparatus 1 can be manufactured compactly and at low cost.

Second Embodiment
In the first embodiment, the opening 40 b (see FIG. 5) on the outlet side of the solvent gas circulation channel 40 is formed on the side surface of the gutter 31. On the other hand, the second embodiment is different in that the opening 40 e on the outlet side of the solvent gas circulation channel 40 communicates with the ink collection channel 30 in the gutter 31.
The other points are the same as in the first embodiment, and therefore, only the portions different from the first embodiment will be described, and the description of the overlapping portions will be omitted.

FIG. 8 is an end view of the recording head and each pipe connected to the recording head in the ink jet recording apparatus according to the second embodiment.
As described above, the opening 40 e on the outlet side of the solvent gas circulation channel 40 communicates with the ink collection channel 30 in the gutter 31 via the channel 40 d. In this case, the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel 40 is led to the opening 40 e and further sucked by the negative pressure of the recovery pump 33 (see FIG. 2), and is not used for recording. ink recovery channel together with Q _B will flow through the (solvent gas circulation flow path) 30.
Furthermore, the solvent gas flows through the ink recovery channel 30 and flows into the ink container I1 (see FIG. 4). Then, since the internal pressure of the ink container I1 is increased by the solvent gas flowing into the ink container I1, the solvent gas flows out to the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the ink container I1 (see FIG. 4).

That is, in the first embodiment, most of the solvent gas released from the opening 40b (see FIG. 5) of the solvent gas circulation channel 40 flows in from the opening 30b of the pipe 30a close to the opening 40b. The solvent gas is partially released into the recording head 400.
On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the solvent gas circulates completely in the solvent gas circulation passage 40, the ink container I1, the ink recovery passage (solvent gas circulation passage) 30, and is discharged into the recording head 400. It will not be done.
Incidentally, the flow of the operation when the control device 5 causes the temperature adjustment means 60 and 70 to perform the heating process or the cooling process is the same as in the case of the first embodiment.

<Effect>
According to the inkjet recording apparatus 1A according to the present embodiment, the solvent gas circulates completely in the solvent gas circulation channel 40, the ink container I1, and the ink recovery channel (solvent gas circulation channel) 30.
Accordingly, during the stop of the recording process, the temperature T ₅ of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the recording head 400, was made to be lower than the solvent gas temperature T ₃ in the ink container I1 In the case (see steps S101 and S106 to S109 in FIG. 7), the following phenomenon occurs. That is, all the solvent condensed in the solvent gas circulation channel 40 is an ink recovery channel (solvent gas circulation channel) through the opening 40e (see FIG. 8) by the negative pressure of the recovery pump 33 (see FIG. 2) Flows into 30).

Therefore, the condensed solvent flows not only to the solvent gas circulation channel 40 but also to the ink recovery channel 30. That is, the solvent in the liquid state is dissolved in the ink mist adhering to the inside of the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 and the ink remaining in the ink recovery flow path 30, so that the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 and the ink recovery The inside of the flow path 30 can be cleaned. As a result, the solvent gas circulation channel 40 and the inside of the recording head 400 can be kept cleaner.

Third Embodiment
As compared with the first embodiment, in the present embodiment, the flow of the operation when the control device 5 causes the temperature adjustment means 60, 70 to perform the heating process or the cooling process is different. The other parts are the same as in the first embodiment, and therefore, parts different from the first embodiment will be described, and description of overlapping parts will be omitted.

(1. Temperature control process of print head)
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing temperature control processing of the solvent gas on the recording head side.
In step S201, the control device 5 determines whether the inkjet recording apparatus 1B is executing a recording process. If the recording process is being performed (S201 → Yes), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S202. When the recording process is not being performed (S201 → No), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S206.
In step S202, the control unit 5 determines whether the temperature difference [Delta] T ₁ is equal to or less than the temperature difference .DELTA.Ta. Here, the temperature difference ΔT ₁ is represented by the following (Expression 1). Further, as described above, T ₄ is the ambient temperature of the main body 200, T ₅ is the temperature of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400. Further, ΔTa is a preset temperature difference, and for example, ΔTa = 1K.
ΔT ₁ = T ₅ -T ₄ (Equation 1)

If ΔT ₁ ≦ ΔTa in step S202 (S202 → Yes), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S203. When ΔT ₁ > ΔTa in step S202 (S202 → No), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S204. In step S203, the control device 5 heats the solvent gas by the temperature control unit 70 installed in the solvent gas circulation channel 40 in the recording head 400.
The processes of steps S204 and S205 are the same as the processes of steps S104 and S105 described above (see FIG. 7), and thus the description thereof is omitted.

On the other hand, in step S201, the recording process if a stopped (step S201 → No), the control unit 5 determines whether the temperature difference [Delta] T ₁ is or not is equal to or higher than the temperature difference .DELTA.Tb (step S206 ). Incidentally, when the recording process is stopped, the supply pump 11 shown in FIG. 2 is stopped but the recovery pump 33 is operated. Further, ΔTb is a preset temperature difference, and for example, ΔTb = 1K.

If ΔT ₁場合 ΔTb in step S206 (S206 → Yes), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S207. If ΔT ₁ <ΔTb in step S206 (S206 → No), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S208. In step S207, the control device 5 cools the solvent gas by the temperature control unit 70 installed in the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400.
The processes of steps S208 and S209 are the same as the processes of steps S108 and S109 described above (see FIG. 7), and thus the description thereof is omitted.

That is, the control unit 5 in the process, when the recording process is being executed, the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400 is a solvent gas temperature T ₅ flowing through, it is higher than the △ Ta + T ₄ To control.
The recording process in the case of being stopped, the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400 is a solvent gas temperature T ₅ flowing through is controlled to be lower than △ Tb + T _4.

(2. Temperature control process on the ink container side)
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing temperature control processing of the solvent gas on the ink container side.
In step S301, the control device 5 determines whether the inkjet recording apparatus 1B is executing a recording process. When the recording process is being performed (S301-> Yes), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S302. When the recording process is not being performed (S301 → No), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S306.
In step S302, the control unit 5 determines whether the temperature difference [Delta] T ₂ is equal to or greater than the temperature difference .DELTA.Ta. Here, ΔT ₂ is represented by the following (Expression 2). Further, as described above, T ₃ is the solvent gas temperature in the ink container I1, T ₄ is the ambient temperature of the main body 200. Further, ΔTa is a preset temperature difference, and for example, ΔTa = 1K.
ΔT ₂ = T ₃ -T ₄ (Equation 2)

If ΔT ₂場合 ΔTa in step S302 (S302 → Yes), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S303. In step S302, if ΔT ₂ <ΔTa (S302 → No), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S304. In step S303, the control device 5 cools the solvent gas by the temperature control unit 60 installed in the ink container I1.
The processes of steps S304 and S305 are the same as the processes of steps S104 and S105 described above (see FIG. 7), and thus the description thereof is omitted.

On the other hand, in step S301, the recording process if a stopped (step S301 → No), the control unit 5 determines whether the temperature difference [Delta] T ₂ is equal to or less than the temperature difference .DELTA.Tb (step S306).
If ΔT ₂ ≦ ΔTb in step S306 (S306 → Yes), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S307. When ΔT ₂ > ΔTb in step S306 (S306 → No), the process of the control device 5 proceeds to step S308. In step S307, the control device 5 heats the solvent gas by the temperature control unit 70 installed in the ink container I1.
The processes of steps S308 and S309 are the same as the processes of steps S108 and S109 described above (see FIG. 7), and thus the description thereof is omitted.

That is, the control unit 5 in the process, when the recording process is being executed, the solvent gas temperature T ₃ in the ink container I1, is controlled to be lower than the △ Ta + T _4.
Further, when the recording process is stopped, the solvent gas temperature T ₃ in the ink container I1, is controlled to be higher than the △ Tb + T _4.

<Effect>
According to the ink jet recording apparatus 1B according to this embodiment, during the execution of the recording process, as a solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400 is a solvent gas temperature T ₅ flowing through, it is higher than the △ Ta + T ₄ It is controlled, and the solvent gas temperature T ₃ in the ink container I1, is controlled to be lower than the △ Ta + T _4.
That is, the temperature of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the recording head 400 is controlled to be higher than the temperature of the solvent gas in the ink container I1 all the time during the recording process. . Therefore, the solvent is evaporated in the recording head 400. That is, since the condensed solvent does not flow out from the opening 40b (see FIG. 5), the inside of the recording head 400 can be kept clean.

Further, during the stop of the recording process, the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400 is a solvent gas temperature T ₅ flowing through, is controlled to be lower than the △ Tb + T _4, and the solvent in the ink container I1 gas temperature _{T 3} is controlled to be higher than the △ Tb + _{T 4.}
That is, while the recording process is stopped, the temperature of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation passage 40 in the recording head 400 is always controlled to be lower than the temperature of the solvent gas in the ink container I1. . Therefore, the solvent condenses in the recording head 400. That is, the solvent (liquid) condensed in the solvent gas circulation channel 40 in the recording head 400 melts the ink mist and flows through the solvent gas circulation channel 40 by the pressure of the recovery pump 33. Therefore, the inside of the solvent gas circulation passage 40 can be cleaned, and the inside of the recording head 400 can be kept clean.

Further, according to the ink jet recording apparatus 1B according to this embodiment, the solvent gas temperature T ₅ flowing through the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 in the recording head 400, and a solvent gas temperature T ₃ in the ink container I1, by comparing the ambient temperature T ₄ of the main body 200 respectively, univocally the processing content (heat treatment or cooling treatment) is determined. Therefore, the processing of the control device 5 can be simplified and the processing load can be reduced.

«Modification»
As mentioned above, although the inkjet recording device concerning the present invention was explained by each embodiment, the meaning of the present invention is not limited to these statements, and various change etc. can be performed.
In the third embodiment, the processing shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 is applied to the inkjet recording apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment, but the processing can also be applied to the inkjet recording apparatus 1A according to the second embodiment. It is.
Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the case of one ink container I1 and one recording head 400 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, a plurality of ink containers storing ink of different colors may be provided, and a recording head corresponding thereto may be provided. In this case, an ink supply flow path, an ink recovery flow path, and a solvent gas circulation flow path may be provided corresponding to each pair of the ink container and the recording head.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the case where the recording target F (for example, a sheet or a can) moves outside the inkjet recording apparatus and the ink is continuously discharged to each recording target F has been described. It is not limited to this. That is, the paper feed unit, the separation unit for separating the sheets one by one, the conveyance unit for conveying the sheets, the paper discharge unit and the like may be provided inside the ink jet recording apparatus, and the recording head may be incorporated in the main body. In this case, an image or the like can be recorded on the recording target inside the ink jet recording apparatus.

In each of the above embodiments, the temperature control unit 60 (see FIG. 4) is installed in the ink container I1. However, the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the temperature control means may be installed in the ink recovery flow path (solvent gas circulation flow path) 30 or the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 inside the main body 200 in the same manner as that shown in FIG.
In each of the above embodiments, the temperature control means 70 (see FIG. 6) is installed in the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 near the gutter 31. However, the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the temperature control means may be installed in the ink recovery flow path 30 or the solvent gas circulation flow path 40 inside the recording head 400 in the same manner as that shown in FIG.

For example, when the temperature control means is installed in the ink recovery flow path 30 inside the main body 200, the solvent gas heated by the heat treatment of the temperature control means flows into the ink container I1 (see FIG. 4). The same effect as in the case where the ink container I1 is installed can be obtained.
That is, temperature control means for adjusting the temperature of the solvent gas on the ink container I1 side among the solvent gases flowing through the solvent gas circulation flow path (ink container I1-solvent gas circulation flow path 40-ink recovery flow path 30) Temperature adjustment means for adjusting the temperature of the solvent gas on the recording head 400 side, and the temperature adjustment at each place by each temperature adjustment means depending on whether or not the inkjet recording apparatus 1 is executing the recording process You can do it.

1, 1A, 1B Ink jet recording apparatus 200 main body 300 cable 400 recording head I1 ink container (solvent gas circulation flow path)
10 Ink supply channel (solvent gas circulation channel)
15 nozzle 30 ink recovery flow path 31 gutter 40 solvent gas circulation flow path 5 control device (control means)
60 Temperature control means (first temperature control means)
67 Temperature sensor (temperature detection means)
70 Temperature control means (second temperature control means)
Q _A , Q _B Ink particle F Recording target

Claims

In a charge amount control type ink jet recording apparatus, the ink particles are deflected according to the charge amount of ink particles ejected from a nozzle.
An ink supply system for supplying ink from the ink container storing the ink to the nozzle of the recording head;
An ink recovery system for recovering ink not used for recording from the gutter of the recording head to the ink container;
A solvent gas circulation system for circulating a solvent gas containing a solvent of ink between the ink container and the gutter;
Temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel of the solvent gas circulation system;
First temperature adjusting means for adjusting the temperature of the solvent gas on the ink container side among the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel depending on whether or not the recording process is being performed;
Second temperature control means for adjusting the temperature of the solvent gas on the recording head side among the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel depending on whether or not the recording process is being performed;
An inkjet recording apparatus, comprising: control means for controlling the first temperature adjustment means and the second temperature adjustment means in response to an input from the temperature detection means.
The control means
When the recording process is being performed, the temperature of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel on the recording head side is higher than the temperature of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel on the ink container side The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first temperature control unit and / or the second temperature control unit are controlled to be higher.
The control means
When the recording process is stopped, the temperature of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel on the recording head side is higher than the temperature of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel on the ink container side The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first temperature control unit and / or the second temperature control unit is controlled to be lower.
In the recording processing method of a charge amount control type ink jet recording apparatus, which deflects the ink particles according to the charge amount of ink particles ejected from a nozzle.
The inkjet recording apparatus is
An ink supply system for supplying ink from the ink container storing the ink to the nozzle of the recording head;
An ink recovery system for recovering ink not used for recording from the gutter of the recording head to the ink container;
A solvent gas circulation system for circulating a solvent gas containing a solvent of ink between the ink container and the gutter;
The temperature of the solvent gas on the ink container side and / or the recording of the solvent gas flowing through the solvent gas circulation channel of the solvent gas circulation system depending on whether the recording process is being performed or not And adjusting the temperature of the solvent gas on the head side.