WO2014050628A1 - Ink jet recording device and ink jet head cleaning method - Google Patents

Ink jet recording device and ink jet head cleaning method Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2014050628A1
WO2014050628A1 PCT/JP2013/074988 JP2013074988W WO2014050628A1 WO 2014050628 A1 WO2014050628 A1 WO 2014050628A1 JP 2013074988 W JP2013074988 W JP 2013074988W WO 2014050628 A1 WO2014050628 A1 WO 2014050628A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
ink
brush
ink jet
brush bristles
cleaning
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Application number
PCT/JP2013/074988
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French (fr)
Japanese (ja)
Inventor
加藤　茂
浩文 原
Original Assignee
株式会社ミマキエンジニアリング
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Publication of WO2014050628A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014050628A1/en

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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/165—Preventing or detecting of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
    • B41J2/16517—Cleaning of print head nozzles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/165—Preventing or detecting of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
    • B41J2/16517—Cleaning of print head nozzles
    • B41J2/16535—Cleaning of print head nozzles using wiping constructions
    • B41J2/16538—Cleaning of print head nozzles using wiping constructions with brushes or wiper blades perpendicular to the nozzle plate

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an inkjet recording apparatus and an inkjet head cleaning method.
  • Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for cleaning an inkjet head by including a brush that wipes off deposits adhering to the ink discharge surface and a suction unit that sucks an object that the brush has wiped off.
  • the water repellent surface of the head may be damaged by contact between the brush and the head. If the ink ejection accuracy is not recovered even after cleaning the head, it is necessary to replace the head.
  • the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an inkjet recording apparatus and an inkjet head cleaning method capable of high-quality printing over a long period of time.
  • an ink jet recording apparatus has an ink jet head having an ink ejection surface in which an ejection port for ejecting ink is formed, and a tip of the ink jet recording apparatus is brought And a bristle for removing deposits adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface, and the diameter of the tip is smaller than the diameter of the ejection port.
  • the tip of the brush bristles Since the diameter of the tip of the brush bristles is thinner than the diameter of the discharge port, the tip easily enters the discharge port. Therefore, dirt in the vicinity of the discharge port or in the discharge port can be suitably removed. In addition, even if the tip of the bristles contacts the inkjet head, a large burden is not applied, so that the ink discharge surface of the inkjet head can be prevented from being damaged.
  • the ink jet recording apparatus can perform high-quality printing over a long period of time.
  • the ink jet recording apparatus further includes a vibration applying unit that applies vibration to the brush bristles.
  • the vibration applying means gives vibration to the brush hair
  • the tip of the brush hair easily enters the discharge port. Therefore, the deposit
  • the vibration applying means generates an ultrasonic wave to apply vibration to the brush bristles.
  • the brush hair vibrates finely when the vibration applying means generates ultrasonic waves. Since the adhering matter attached to the discharge port is easily separated by fine vibrations of the brush hair, it is easy to remove the adhering matter.
  • the ink jet recording apparatus further comprises a cleaning liquid supply means for supplying a cleaning liquid to the brush bristles.
  • the cleaning liquid supply means supplies the cleaning liquid to the brush hair, the cleaning liquid adheres to the brush hair. It is easy to dissolve and remove a part of the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface by the cleaning liquid adhering to the brush bristles.
  • the cleaning liquid is held between the brush hairs by capillary action. In this case, it is easier to dissolve and remove a part of the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface.
  • the ultrasonic waves can be applied to the deposit attached to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface through the cleaning liquid adhered to the brush bristle. Therefore, the deposits can be easily removed.
  • the ratio of the diameter of the tip to the diameter of the discharge port is more preferably 4% or more and 50% or less.
  • the brush hair can suitably remove the deposits attached to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface.
  • the ratio of the diameter of the tip is 50% or less, the tip of the bristles can more easily enter the discharge port, and deposits attached to the discharge port can be suitably removed.
  • the brush hair is more preferably formed from a material selected from the group consisting of polybutylene terephthalate, nylon and polypropylene.
  • the brush bristles formed from the above materials are excellent in wear resistance and solvent resistance. Therefore, the cleaning performance of the inkjet head can be maintained over a long period of time.
  • the inkjet head cleaning method includes a cleaning step of cleaning an inkjet head having an ink discharge surface on which an ejection port for ejecting ink is formed with brush hairs.
  • the diameter of the ejection port is determined.
  • the brush bristles having a narrower tip diameter come into contact with the ink ejection surface, thereby removing deposits adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface.
  • the ink jet head cleaning method according to the present invention has the same effects as the ink jet recording apparatus.
  • the ink jet recording apparatus and the ink jet cleaning method according to the present invention have an effect that high quality printing is possible over a long period of time.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an ink jet recording apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows typically the inkjet recording device which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention.
  • FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are diagrams schematically showing cleaning of the discharge ports formed on the ink discharge surface with brush hairs in the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing an ink jet recording apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • the ink jet recording apparatus 20 includes an ink jet head 1, a brush body 4 that supports the brush bristles 3, a brush moving means 5, an ultrasonic wave generating means (vibration adding means, not shown), a cleaning liquid supply means 6, and a cleaning liquid.
  • a receiver 7 is provided.
  • the inkjet recording apparatus 20 ejects ink from the inkjet head 1 to a recording medium (not shown) and draws a predetermined image on the recording medium.
  • the inkjet head 1 ejects ink from a plurality of ejection ports (not shown) formed on the ink ejection surface 2.
  • inkjet recording apparatus 20 By using the inkjet recording apparatus 20 for a long period of time, ink adheres to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2 as an adhering substance. Therefore, it is necessary to clean the inkjet head 1 and remove the deposits.
  • the brush body 4 supports a plurality of dense bristles 3 at the end, and reciprocates in the direction of arrow X in FIG.
  • the brush bristles 3 are for removing the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2 when the tip contacts the ink ejection surface 2.
  • the diameter of the tip of the brush bristles 3 is thinner than the diameter of the discharge port.
  • the diameter of the tip of the brush bristles 3 is smaller than the diameter of the discharge port, the tip easily enters the discharge port. Therefore, dirt in the vicinity of the discharge port or in the discharge port can be suitably removed. In addition, even if the brush bristles 3 and the ink jet head 1 come into contact with each other, a large burden is not applied, so that the ink discharge surface 2 of the ink jet head 1 can be prevented from being damaged.
  • the ratio of the diameter of the tip of the bristle to the diameter of the discharge port is preferably 4% or more and 50% or less, and more preferably 8% or more and 33% or less.
  • the bristle can suitably remove the deposits attached to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface.
  • the ratio of the diameter of the tip is 50% or less, the tip of the bristles can more easily enter the discharge port, and deposits attached to the discharge port can be suitably removed.
  • the ratio of the diameter of the tip is 8% or more, the brush hair can more suitably remove deposits attached to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface.
  • the ratio of the diameter of the tip is 33% or less, the tip of the brush bristle can more easily enter the discharge port, and deposits attached to the discharge port can be more suitably removed.
  • the diameter of the discharge port is 25 to 35 ⁇ m
  • the diameter of the bristle is 3 ⁇ m at the tip, and is provided between the tip and the root, and the taper gradually decreases in diameter as it approaches the tip. It is 20 to 37 ⁇ m at the part, and 200 ⁇ m at the root part. Then, adjustment may be made so that the tip of the bristle is about 1 mm in contact with the ink ejection surface. As a result, the tip of the brush bristles can easily enter the discharge port, and deposits in the vicinity of the discharge port or inside the discharge port can be suitably removed.
  • the brush bristles are more preferably formed from materials such as polybutylene terephthalate, nylon, and polypropylene.
  • the bristles formed from the above materials are excellent in wear resistance and solvent resistance. Therefore, the cleaning performance of the inkjet head can be maintained for a long time.
  • the brush moving means 5 is a moving means for supporting the brush body 4 and reciprocating the brush body 4 in the direction of the arrow X in FIG.
  • the tip of the brush bristle 3 supported by the brush body 4 is in contact with the ink ejection surface 2, the tip of the brush bristle 3 can be moved to a plurality of ejection openings by reciprocating the brush body 4 in the arrow X direction. Or it contacts the ink discharge surface 2.
  • the movement direction of the brush moving means 5 is not limited to the arrow X direction, and is parallel to the ink ejection surface 2 and is perpendicular to the arrow X direction, or is perpendicular to the arrow X direction and the arrow Z direction.
  • An arrow Y direction which is a simple direction may be used.
  • the brush moving means 5 may include a mechanism for rotating the brush body 4.
  • the ultrasonic wave generating means is one form of vibration adding means for applying vibration to the brush bristles 3 by generating ultrasonic waves. Since the bristle 3 vibrates finely by generating an ultrasonic wave, the bristle 3 can be prevented from being caught by the discharge port. Furthermore, since the attached matter attached to the discharge port is easily separated by the fine vibration of the brush bristles 3, it is easy to remove the attached matter.
  • the vibration applying means in addition to the ultrasonic wave generating means, for example, a roller provided with an eccentric cam, a piezo element, and the like can be cited.
  • the vibration applying means gives vibration to the brush hair, the tip of the brush hair easily enters the discharge port. Therefore, the deposit
  • the frequency applied by vibration applying means such as a roller provided with an eccentric cam or a piezo element is preferably 1 kHz or more, and more preferably 3.3 kHz or more.
  • the frequency is 1 kHz or more, the tip of the brush hair easily enters the discharge port, and when the frequency is 3.3 kHz or more, the tip of the brush hair further easily enters the discharge port.
  • the frequency applied by vibration applying means such as ultrasonic wave generating means is preferably 3 MHz or less, and more preferably 1.6 MHz or less.
  • High-frequency vibrations are easily attenuated in the process of propagation, but when the frequency is 3 MHz or less, vibrations effective for removing dirt can be propagated to the vicinity of the discharge port or to dirt in the discharge port. By being 6 MHz or less, more vibration can be propagated to the vicinity of the discharge port or to the dirt in the discharge port.
  • the vibration applying means is provided directly below the brush bristles of the brush body. Thereby, vibration can be imparted to the brush bristles without the vibration being attenuated by the brush body.
  • the cleaning liquid supply means 6 is for supplying the cleaning liquid to the brush bristles 3.
  • the cleaning liquid supply means 6 supplies the cleaning liquid to the brush bristles 3, the cleaning liquid adheres to the brush bristles 3. Since the plurality of brush bristles 3 are densely packed, the cleaning liquid is held between the bristles 3 by capillary action. Therefore, it is easy to melt and remove a part of the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2.
  • the ultrasonic waves can be applied to the deposits attached to the discharge ports or the ink discharge surfaces 2 through the cleaning liquid attached to the brush bristles 3. Therefore, the deposits can be easily removed.
  • a liquid that dissolves in a liquid (ink solvent) obtained by removing pigments, dyes, and the like from ink may be used.
  • a liquid such as solvent ink
  • the cleaning liquid receiver 7 is provided so as to face the cleaning liquid supply means 6 and stores the cleaning liquid that has not adhered to the brush bristles 3 when the cleaning liquid is supplied to the bristles 3.
  • the cleaning liquid supply means may be attached to the cleaning liquid receiver, the cleaning liquid may be stored in the cleaning liquid receiver, and the brush hair may be immersed in the cleaning liquid to supply the cleaning liquid to the brush hair.
  • the cleaning liquid may be stored in the cleaning liquid receiver, and the brush bristles with deposits attached after cleaning of the discharge port or the ink discharge surface may be immersed in the cleaning liquid of the cleaning liquid receiver.
  • the inkjet recording apparatus can perform high-quality printing over a long period of time.
  • the cleaning method of the inkjet head 1 includes a cleaning process of cleaning the inkjet head 1 having the ink ejection surface 2 on which the ejection port for ejecting ink is formed with the brush bristles 3.
  • the bristle 3 having a tip diameter smaller than the diameter of the ejection port comes into contact with the ink ejection surface 2, the adhering matter attached to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2 is removed.
  • a method for cleaning the inkjet head 1 provided in the inkjet recording apparatus 20 will be described.
  • the brush bristles 3 are located under the cleaning liquid supply means 6.
  • purge refers to cleaning the discharge port by discharging ink from the discharge port by increasing the supply pressure when supplying ink to the inkjet head 1 without vibrating the inkjet head 1. . Purge is appropriately performed by raising the supply pressure to, for example, atmospheric pressure or higher. Further, when purging, a member for collecting ink ejected by purging may be provided in the inkjet recording apparatus 20.
  • the discharge port is checked to identify the discharge port whose discharge accuracy has deteriorated.
  • a known method may be used.
  • a check pattern may be printed and visually checked, or an optical sensor may be used.
  • the ink jet head 1 and the brush body 4 are moved so that the brush bristles 3 can clean the ink jet head 1.
  • a carriage (not shown) for mounting the head is moved, and for the brush body 4, the brush body 4 may be moved in the horizontal direction by the brush moving means 5.
  • the inkjet head 1 and the brush body 4 move to positions where the tip of the brush bristles 3 and the ink discharge surface 2 can contact each other.
  • the brush moving means 5 is controlled to move the brush body 4, and the brush bristles 3 are moved to the vicinity of a specific discharge port.
  • the specific discharge port may be a discharge port with deteriorated discharge accuracy specified by checking the discharge port, or may be a predetermined discharge port.
  • the brush body 4 and the bristles 3 are vibrated using a piezo element built in the brush body 4 or a motor to which an eccentric cam provided on the brush body 4 is attached, or using ultrasonic wave generation means. May be given.
  • the brush moving means 5 is moved to reciprocate the brush body 4 in the arrow X direction.
  • the ink supply pressure to the inkjet head 1 may be increased to allow the ink to ooze out from the ejection port. Thereby, the deposit
  • the brush moving means 5 may be controlled so that the brush bristles 3 reciprocate in the vicinity of a specific discharge port to clean the discharge port or the ink discharge surface 2. However, all the discharge ports or inks other than the specific discharge port may be controlled. The brush moving means 5 may be controlled so that the brush bristles 3 clean the entire discharge surface 2.
  • FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are diagrams schematically showing cleaning of the discharge ports formed on the ink discharge surface with brush hairs in the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • a row 8 of discharge ports formed of a plurality of discharge ports formed on the ink discharge surface 2 and a row of brush hairs formed of a plurality of brush hairs 3 formed on the brush body 4 are parallel to each other.
  • the discharge port or the ink discharge surface 2 may be cleaned while maintaining a simple state.
  • the brush bristles are provided in the brush body 4 in a matrix of several hundred units.
  • the row of brush hairs may be inclined (inclined by 10 degrees in the drawing) with respect to the row 8 of discharge ports.
  • the discharge port or the ink discharge surface is more suitable than when the row of brush bristles is parallel to the row of discharge ports Can be cleaned. This is because the tip of the brush hair can be reliably applied to the discharge port even when the tip of the brush hair falls asleep by performing cleaning many times or when the brush hairs are entangled with each other. .
  • the meniscus is broken.
  • the normal cleaning is, for example, performing ink suction or purging and wiping as necessary.
  • the brush moving means 5 is controlled to move the brush body 4 and the brush bristles 3 are moved below the cleaning liquid supply means 6.
  • the cleaning liquid supply means 6 drops the cleaning liquid onto the brush bristles 3 and removes deposits adhering to the brush bristles 3.
  • vibration is applied to the brush body 4 and the brush bristles 3 using a piezo element built in the brush body 4 or a motor to which an eccentric cam provided on the brush body 4 is attached.
  • the removed dirt can be removed efficiently.
  • the dirt attached to the brush bristles 3 may be removed by storing the washing liquid in the washing liquid receiver 7 and immersing the bristles 3 in the cleaning liquid receiver 7. At this time, the dirt adhering to the brush bristles 3 can be efficiently removed by rotating the bristles 3 (and the brush body 4).
  • the inkjet head cleaning method according to the present invention includes not only the case where the inkjet head is automatically cleaned using the brush body included in the inkjet recording apparatus, but also the case where the inkjet head is manually cleaned using the brush body. It is.
  • FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing an ink jet recording apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
  • members having the same functions as those in the drawings described in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.
  • the ink jet recording apparatus 30 according to the second embodiment includes a brush rotating unit 11 instead of the brush moving unit 5, and a cleaning tank 12 instead of the cleaning liquid supply unit 6 and the cleaning liquid receiver 7. Thus, it is different from the inkjet recording apparatus 20 according to the first embodiment.
  • the brush rotating means 11 is a rotating means for supporting the brush body 4 and rotating the brush body 4 in the direction of arrow A in FIG.
  • the tip of the brush bristles 3 supported by the brush body 4 is in contact with the ink discharge surface 2, the tip of the brush bristles 3 is turned into a plurality of discharge ports or by rotating the brush body 4 in the direction of arrow A. Contact the ink ejection surface 2.
  • the brush rotating means 11 may include not only a mechanism for rotating the brush body 4 but also a mechanism for moving the brush body 4 in an arbitrary direction.
  • the cleaning tank 12 is for storing the cleaning liquid and immersing the brush hair 3 to which the deposits adhere after cleaning the discharge port or the ink discharge surface 2 in the cleaning liquid. Further, the brush bristles 3 can be stored in the cleaning tank 12.
  • the brush bristles 3 are stored in the cleaning tank 12. At this time, the cleaning liquid may be stored in the cleaning tank 12.
  • the brush main body 4 After storing the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 12 and attaching the cleaning liquid to the brush bristles 3, the brush main body 4 is moved in the direction of arrow A in FIG. Thereby, the front-end
  • the brush rotating means 11 may be controlled to move the brush body 4 while rotating it. Thereby, the brush bristles 3 can clean all the ejection ports other than the specific ejection port or the entire ink ejection surface 2.
  • dirt attached to the brush bristles 3 may be removed by immersing the bristles 3 in the cleaning tank 12 storing the cleaning liquid.
  • the bristles may be vibrated by vibration applying means. Thereby, the stain
  • the ink jet recording apparatus and the ink jet head cleaning method according to the present invention can perform high quality printing over a long period of time.
  • the ink jet recording apparatus 20 includes an ink jet head 1 having an ink ejection surface 2 on which ejection openings for ejecting ink are formed, and the discharge of the ink jet recording apparatus 20 by contacting the ink ejection surface 2 with the tip.
  • the diameter of the tip of the brush bristles 3 is smaller than the diameter of the discharge port, the tip easily enters the discharge port. Therefore, dirt in the vicinity of the discharge port or in the discharge port can be suitably removed. In addition, even if the tip of the brush bristles 3 and the inkjet head 1 come into contact with each other, a large burden is not applied, so that the ink discharge surface 2 of the inkjet head 1 can be prevented from being damaged.
  • the inkjet recording apparatus 20 can perform high-quality printing over a long period of time.
  • the ink jet recording apparatus 20 further includes vibration adding means for applying vibration to the brush bristles 2.
  • the vibration applying means gives vibration to the bristle 3
  • the tip of the bristle 3 can easily enter the discharge port. Therefore, the deposit
  • the vibration applying means generates ultrasonic waves and applies vibrations to the brush bristles 3.
  • the brush bristles 3 vibrate finely when the vibration applying means generates ultrasonic waves. Since the attached matter attached to the discharge port is easily separated by the minute vibration of the brush bristles 3, it is easy to remove the attached matter.
  • the inkjet recording apparatus 20 further includes a cleaning liquid supply unit 6 that supplies a cleaning liquid to the brush bristles 3.
  • the cleaning liquid is supplied to the bristles 3 by the cleaning liquid supply means 6 supplying the bristles 3 with the cleaning liquid. It is easy to dissolve and remove a part of the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2 by the cleaning liquid adhering to the brush bristles 3.
  • the cleaning liquid is held between the bristles 3 by capillary action. In this case, it is easier to dissolve and remove a part of the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2.
  • the ultrasonic waves can be applied to the deposits attached to the discharge ports or the ink discharge surfaces 2 through the cleaning liquid attached to the brush bristles 3. Therefore, the deposits can be easily removed.
  • the ratio of the diameter of the tip to the diameter of the discharge port is 4% or more and 50% or less.
  • the brush bristles 3 can suitably remove deposits adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2.
  • the ratio of the diameter of the tip is 50% or less, the tip of the brush bristles 3 can more easily enter the discharge port, and deposits attached to the discharge port can be suitably removed.
  • the brush bristles 3 are formed of a material selected from the group consisting of polybutylene terephthalate, nylon, and polypropylene.
  • the brush bristles 3 formed from the above materials are excellent in wear resistance and solvent resistance. Therefore, the cleaning performance of the inkjet head 1 can be maintained over a long period of time.
  • the cleaning method of the inkjet head 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a cleaning step of cleaning the inkjet head 1 having the ink ejection surface 2 on which the ejection port for ejecting ink is formed with the brush bristles 3.
  • the brush bristles 3 having a tip diameter smaller than the diameter of the discharge port come into contact with the ink discharge surface 2 to remove the deposits attached to the discharge port or the ink discharge surface 2.
  • the same effects as those of the ink jet recording apparatus 20 can be obtained.
  • the ink jet head cleaning method according to the present invention can be used in an ink jet printing apparatus.

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Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of providing an ink jet recording device, which is capable of high-quality image printing over a long period, and an ink jet head cleaning method. The solution involves an ink jet recording device (20) provided with an ink jet head (1) having an ink discharge surface (2) in which discharge holes for discharging ink are formed, and brush bristles (3) that removes deposits attached to the discharge holes or the ink discharge surface (2) as a result of the tips of the brush bristles coming into contact with the ink discharge surface (2). The diameter of the abovementioned tips is smaller than the discharge holes.

Description

インクジェット記録装置及びインクジェットヘッドの清掃方法Inkjet recording apparatus and inkjet head cleaning method
　本発明は、インクジェット記録装置及びインクジェットヘッドの清掃方法に関する。 The present invention relates to an inkjet recording apparatus and an inkjet head cleaning method.
　インク吐出面に付着した付着物を払い落とすブラシ、及び当該ブラシが払い落とした物体を吸引する吸引ユニットを備えることによって、インクジェットヘッドのクリーニングを行う技術が、特許文献１に記載されている。 Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for cleaning an inkjet head by including a brush that wipes off deposits adhering to the ink discharge surface and a suction unit that sucks an object that the brush has wiped off.
特開２００７－３０１８２４号公報（２００７年１１月２２日公開）JP 2007-301824 A (published November 22, 2007)
　特許文献１に記載されているように、ブラシによるヘッドクリーニングは従来から提案されている。しかし、通常のブラシ（約φ２００μｍ）ではノズル近傍、又はノズル内の汚れを落とすことができず、インクジェットヘッドからのインクの着弾位置が意図した範囲からずれてしまう現象（飛行曲がり）を改善することができないおそれがある。 As described in Patent Document 1, head cleaning with a brush has been conventionally proposed. However, with a normal brush (approx. Φ200 μm), it is not possible to remove the dirt in or near the nozzle, and the phenomenon that the landing position of the ink from the inkjet head deviates from the intended range (flight bending) is improved. You may not be able to.
　通常のブラシでは、ブラシとヘッドとの接触によってヘッドの撥水面を損傷するおそれがある。また、ヘッドのクリーニングを行ってもインクの吐出精度が回復しない場合には、ヘッドの交換をする必要がある。 ∙ With normal brushes, the water repellent surface of the head may be damaged by contact between the brush and the head. If the ink ejection accuracy is not recovered even after cleaning the head, it is necessary to replace the head.
　本発明は、上記課題に鑑みてなされたものであり、長期間にわたって高画質印刷が可能なインクジェット記録装置及びインクジェットヘッドの清掃方法を提供することを目的とする。 The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an inkjet recording apparatus and an inkjet head cleaning method capable of high-quality printing over a long period of time.
　本発明に係るインクジェット記録装置は、上記の課題を解決するために、インクを吐出する吐出口が形成されたインク吐出面を有するインクジェットヘッドと、先端が上記インク吐出面に接触することにより、上記吐出口又は上記インク吐出面に付着した付着物を除去するブラシ毛とを備え、上記先端の径は、上記吐出口の径より細いことを特徴としている。 In order to solve the above problems, an ink jet recording apparatus according to the present invention has an ink jet head having an ink ejection surface in which an ejection port for ejecting ink is formed, and a tip of the ink jet recording apparatus is brought And a bristle for removing deposits adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface, and the diameter of the tip is smaller than the diameter of the ejection port.
　ブラシ毛の先端の径は吐出口の径よりも細いため、当該先端は容易に吐出口に侵入する。そのため、吐出口近傍、又は吐出口内の汚れを好適に除去することができる。また、ブラシ毛の先端とインクジェットヘッドとが接触しても大きな負担がかからないため、インクジェットヘッドのインク吐出面が損傷することを防止できる。 Since the diameter of the tip of the brush bristles is thinner than the diameter of the discharge port, the tip easily enters the discharge port. Therefore, dirt in the vicinity of the discharge port or in the discharge port can be suitably removed. In addition, even if the tip of the bristles contacts the inkjet head, a large burden is not applied, so that the ink discharge surface of the inkjet head can be prevented from being damaged.
　したがって、本発明に係るインクジェット記録装置は、長期間にわたって高画質印刷が可能である。 Therefore, the ink jet recording apparatus according to the present invention can perform high-quality printing over a long period of time.
　本発明に係るインクジェット記録装置は、上記ブラシ毛に振動を与える振動付加手段をさらに備えることがより好ましい。 It is more preferable that the ink jet recording apparatus according to the present invention further includes a vibration applying unit that applies vibration to the brush bristles.
　振動付加手段がブラシ毛に振動を与えることによって、ブラシ毛の先端が吐出口に侵入しやすくなる。よって、吐出口に付着した付着物を好適に除去することができる。 When the vibration applying means gives vibration to the brush hair, the tip of the brush hair easily enters the discharge port. Therefore, the deposit | attachment adhering to a discharge outlet can be removed suitably.
　本発明に係るインクジェット記録装置では、上記振動付加手段は、超音波を発生させて上記ブラシ毛に振動を与えることがより好ましい。 In the ink jet recording apparatus according to the present invention, it is more preferable that the vibration applying means generates an ultrasonic wave to apply vibration to the brush bristles.
　振動付加手段が超音波を発生させることによって、ブラシ毛は微細に振動する。ブラシ毛の微細な振動により吐出口に付着した付着物が離れやすくなるため、当該付着物を除去することが容易である。 The brush hair vibrates finely when the vibration applying means generates ultrasonic waves. Since the adhering matter attached to the discharge port is easily separated by fine vibrations of the brush hair, it is easy to remove the adhering matter.
　本発明に係るインクジェット記録装置は、上記ブラシ毛に洗浄液を供給する洗浄液供給手段をさらに備えることがより好ましい。 More preferably, the ink jet recording apparatus according to the present invention further comprises a cleaning liquid supply means for supplying a cleaning liquid to the brush bristles.
　洗浄液供給手段がブラシ毛に洗浄液を供給することによって、ブラシ毛に当該洗浄液が付着する。ブラシ毛に付着した洗浄液によって、吐出口又はインク吐出面に付着した付着物の一部を溶かして除去することが容易である。 When the cleaning liquid supply means supplies the cleaning liquid to the brush hair, the cleaning liquid adheres to the brush hair. It is easy to dissolve and remove a part of the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface by the cleaning liquid adhering to the brush bristles.
　また、複数のブラシ毛が密集している場合、毛細管現象によってブラシ毛の間に洗浄液が保持される。この場合、吐出口又はインク吐出面に付着した付着物の一部を溶かして除去することがより容易である。 Also, when a plurality of brush hairs are densely packed, the cleaning liquid is held between the brush hairs by capillary action. In this case, it is easier to dissolve and remove a part of the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface.
　超音波によりブラシ毛に振動を与えている場合、ブラシ毛に付着した洗浄液を介して、吐出口又はインク吐出面に付着した付着物に超音波を付与することができる。したがって、上記付着物を容易に除去することができる。 When the brush hair is vibrated by ultrasonic waves, the ultrasonic waves can be applied to the deposit attached to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface through the cleaning liquid adhered to the brush bristle. Therefore, the deposits can be easily removed.
　本発明に係るインクジェット記録装置は、上記吐出口の径に対する上記先端の径の割合は、４％以上、５０％以下であることがより好ましい。 In the ink jet recording apparatus according to the present invention, the ratio of the diameter of the tip to the diameter of the discharge port is more preferably 4% or more and 50% or less.
　先端の径の割合が４％以上であることにより、ブラシ毛は吐出口又はインク吐出面に付着した付着物を好適に除去することができる。先端の径の割合が５０％以下であることにより、ブラシ毛の先端はより容易に吐出口に侵入することができ、当該吐出口に付着した付着物を好適に除去することができる。 When the ratio of the diameter of the tip is 4% or more, the brush hair can suitably remove the deposits attached to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface. When the ratio of the diameter of the tip is 50% or less, the tip of the bristles can more easily enter the discharge port, and deposits attached to the discharge port can be suitably removed.
　本発明に係るインクジェット記録装置では、上記ブラシ毛は、ポリブチレンテレフタレート、ナイロン、ポリプロピレンからなる群より選択される材料から形成されることがより好ましい。 In the ink jet recording apparatus according to the present invention, the brush hair is more preferably formed from a material selected from the group consisting of polybutylene terephthalate, nylon and polypropylene.
　上記材料から形成されるブラシ毛は、耐摩耗性及び耐溶剤性に優れている。よって、長期間にわたってインクジェットヘッドの清掃性能を維持することができる。 The brush bristles formed from the above materials are excellent in wear resistance and solvent resistance. Therefore, the cleaning performance of the inkjet head can be maintained over a long period of time.
　本発明に係るインクジェットヘッドの清掃方法は、インクを吐出する吐出口が形成されたインク吐出面を有するインクジェットヘッドを、ブラシ毛により清掃する清掃工程を含み、上記清掃工程では、上記吐出口の径よりも細い先端の径を有する上記ブラシ毛が、上記インク吐出面に接触することにより、上記吐出口又は上記インク吐出面に付着した付着物を除去することを特徴としている。 The inkjet head cleaning method according to the present invention includes a cleaning step of cleaning an inkjet head having an ink discharge surface on which an ejection port for ejecting ink is formed with brush hairs. In the cleaning step, the diameter of the ejection port is determined. The brush bristles having a narrower tip diameter come into contact with the ink ejection surface, thereby removing deposits adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface.
　本発明に係るインクジェットヘッドの清掃方法によれば、上記インクジェット記録装置と同様の効果を奏する。 The ink jet head cleaning method according to the present invention has the same effects as the ink jet recording apparatus.
　本発明に係るインクジェット記録装置及びインクジェットの清掃方法は、長期間にわたって高画質印刷が可能であるという効果を奏する。 The ink jet recording apparatus and the ink jet cleaning method according to the present invention have an effect that high quality printing is possible over a long period of time.
本発明の第１実施形態に係るインクジェット記録装置を模式的に示す図である。1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an ink jet recording apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 本発明の第２実施形態に係るインクジェット記録装置を模式的に示す図である。It is a figure which shows typically the inkjet recording device which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. 図３Ａおよび図３Ｂは、本発明の第１実施形態にて、インク吐出面に形成された吐出口をブラシ毛により清掃することを模式的に示す図である。FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are diagrams schematically showing cleaning of the discharge ports formed on the ink discharge surface with brush hairs in the first embodiment of the present invention.
　［第１実施形態］
　以下、本発明の第１実施形態について、図１を用いて詳細に説明する。図１は、本発明の第１実施形態に係るインクジェット記録装置を模式的に示す図である。 [First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing an ink jet recording apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
　〔インクジェット記録装置２０〕
　本実施形態に係るインクジェット記録装置２０は、インクジェットヘッド１、ブラシ毛３を支持するブラシ本体４、ブラシ移動手段５、超音波発生手段（振動付加手段、図示せず）、洗浄液供給手段６及び洗浄液受け７を備えている。 [Inkjet recording apparatus 20]
The ink jet recording apparatus 20 according to this embodiment includes an ink jet head 1, a brush body 4 that supports the brush bristles 3, a brush moving means 5, an ultrasonic wave generating means (vibration adding means, not shown), a cleaning liquid supply means 6, and a cleaning liquid. A receiver 7 is provided.
　インクジェット記録装置２０は、インクジェットヘッド１から被記録媒体（図示せず）にインクを吐出し、当該被記録媒体に所定の画像を描画するものである。 The inkjet recording apparatus 20 ejects ink from the inkjet head 1 to a recording medium (not shown) and draws a predetermined image on the recording medium.
　（インクジェットヘッド１）
　インクジェットヘッド１は、インク吐出面２に形成されている複数の吐出口（図示せず）からインクを吐出する。 (Inkjet head 1)
The inkjet head 1 ejects ink from a plurality of ejection ports (not shown) formed on the ink ejection surface 2.
　インクジェット記録装置２０を長期間にわたって使用することにより、インクが付着物として吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着する。そのため、インクジェットヘッド１をクリーニングして、当該付着物を除去する必要がある。 By using the inkjet recording apparatus 20 for a long period of time, ink adheres to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2 as an adhering substance. Therefore, it is necessary to clean the inkjet head 1 and remove the deposits.
　（ブラシ本体４）
　ブラシ本体４は、端部にて、密集した複数本のブラシ毛３を支持するものであり、ブラシ移動手段５により、図１中の矢印Ｘ方向に往復運動する。 (Brush body 4)
The brush body 4 supports a plurality of dense bristles 3 at the end, and reciprocates in the direction of arrow X in FIG.
　ブラシ毛３は、先端がインク吐出面２に接触することにより、上記吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着した付着物を除去するものである。ブラシ毛３の先端の径は、吐出口の径より細くなっている。 The brush bristles 3 are for removing the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2 when the tip contacts the ink ejection surface 2. The diameter of the tip of the brush bristles 3 is thinner than the diameter of the discharge port.
　ブラシ毛３の先端の径は、吐出口の径よりも細いため、当該先端は容易に吐出口に侵入する。そのため、吐出口近傍、又は吐出口内の汚れを好適に除去することができる。また、ブラシ毛３とインクジェットヘッド１とが接触しても大きな負担がかからないため、インクジェットヘッド１のインク吐出面２が損傷することを防止できる。 Since the diameter of the tip of the brush bristles 3 is smaller than the diameter of the discharge port, the tip easily enters the discharge port. Therefore, dirt in the vicinity of the discharge port or in the discharge port can be suitably removed. In addition, even if the brush bristles 3 and the ink jet head 1 come into contact with each other, a large burden is not applied, so that the ink discharge surface 2 of the ink jet head 1 can be prevented from being damaged.
　吐出口の径に対するブラシ毛の先端の径の割合は、４％以上、５０％以下であることが好ましく、８％以上、３３％以下であることがより好ましい。先端の径の割合が４％以上であることにより、ブラシ毛は吐出口又はインク吐出面に付着した付着物を好適に除去することができる。先端の径の割合が５０％以下であることにより、ブラシ毛の先端はより容易に吐出口に侵入することができ、当該吐出口に付着した付着物を好適に除去することができる。先端の径の割合が８％以上であることにより、ブラシ毛は吐出口又はインク吐出面に付着した付着物をより好適に除去することができる。先端の径の割合が３３％以下であることにより、ブラシ毛の先端はより容易に吐出口に侵入することができ、当該吐出口に付着した付着物をより好適に除去することができる。 The ratio of the diameter of the tip of the bristle to the diameter of the discharge port is preferably 4% or more and 50% or less, and more preferably 8% or more and 33% or less. When the ratio of the tip diameter is 4% or more, the bristle can suitably remove the deposits attached to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface. When the ratio of the diameter of the tip is 50% or less, the tip of the bristles can more easily enter the discharge port, and deposits attached to the discharge port can be suitably removed. When the ratio of the diameter of the tip is 8% or more, the brush hair can more suitably remove deposits attached to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface. When the ratio of the diameter of the tip is 33% or less, the tip of the brush bristle can more easily enter the discharge port, and deposits attached to the discharge port can be more suitably removed.
　一例として、吐出口の径は、２５～３５μｍであり、ブラシ毛の径は、先端部において、３μｍ、先端部と根元部との間に設けられ、先端部に近づくにつれて直径が次第に減少するテーパ部において、２０～３７μｍ、根元部において、２００μｍである。そして、ブラシ毛の先端１ｍｍ程度がインク吐出面と接触するように、調整すればよい。これらにより、ブラシ毛の先端は吐出口に侵入しやすく、吐出口近傍又は吐出口内部の付着物を好適に除去することができる。 As an example, the diameter of the discharge port is 25 to 35 μm, the diameter of the bristle is 3 μm at the tip, and is provided between the tip and the root, and the taper gradually decreases in diameter as it approaches the tip. It is 20 to 37 μm at the part, and 200 μm at the root part. Then, adjustment may be made so that the tip of the bristle is about 1 mm in contact with the ink ejection surface. As a result, the tip of the brush bristles can easily enter the discharge port, and deposits in the vicinity of the discharge port or inside the discharge port can be suitably removed.
　ブラシ毛は、ポリブチレンテレフタレート、ナイロン、ポリプロピレンなどの材料から形成されることがより好ましい。上記材料から形成されているブラシ毛は、耐摩耗性及び耐溶剤性に優れている。よって、長時間にわたってインクジェットヘッドの清掃性能を維持することができる。 The brush bristles are more preferably formed from materials such as polybutylene terephthalate, nylon, and polypropylene. The bristles formed from the above materials are excellent in wear resistance and solvent resistance. Therefore, the cleaning performance of the inkjet head can be maintained for a long time.
　（ブラシ移動手段５）
　ブラシ移動手段５は、ブラシ本体４を支持し、ブラシ本体４を図１中の矢印Ｘ方向に往復させるための移動手段である。ブラシ本体４に支持されているブラシ毛３の先端がインク吐出面２に接触しているとき、ブラシ本体４を矢印Ｘ方向に往復移動させることにより、ブラシ毛３の先端が、複数の吐出口又はインク吐出面２に接触する。 (Brush moving means 5)
The brush moving means 5 is a moving means for supporting the brush body 4 and reciprocating the brush body 4 in the direction of the arrow X in FIG. When the tip of the bristle 3 supported by the brush body 4 is in contact with the ink ejection surface 2, the tip of the brush bristle 3 can be moved to a plurality of ejection openings by reciprocating the brush body 4 in the arrow X direction. Or it contacts the ink discharge surface 2.
　ブラシ移動手段５の移動方向は、矢印Ｘ方向に限定されず、インク吐出面２と平行であって、矢印Ｘ方向に垂直な方向である矢印Ｚ方向、又は矢印Ｘ方向及び矢印Ｚ方向と垂直な方向である矢印Ｙ方向であってもよい。ブラシ移動手段５が矢印Ｚ方向に移動することにより、ブラシ毛３の先端が、複数の吐出口又はインク吐出面２に接触する。 The movement direction of the brush moving means 5 is not limited to the arrow X direction, and is parallel to the ink ejection surface 2 and is perpendicular to the arrow X direction, or is perpendicular to the arrow X direction and the arrow Z direction. An arrow Y direction which is a simple direction may be used. When the brush moving means 5 moves in the arrow Z direction, the tips of the brush bristles 3 come into contact with the plurality of ejection ports or the ink ejection surface 2.
　さらに、ブラシ移動手段５は、ブラシ本体４を回転させる機構を備えていてもよい。 Furthermore, the brush moving means 5 may include a mechanism for rotating the brush body 4.
　（超音波発生手段）
　超音波発生手段は、超音波を発生させることによりブラシ毛３に振動を与える振動付加手段の一形態である。超音波を発生させることによりブラシ毛３は微細に振動するため、ブラシ毛３が吐出口に引っかかることを防止できる。さらに、ブラシ毛３の微細な振動により吐出口に付着した付着物が離れやすくなるため、当該付着物を除去することが容易である。 (Ultrasonic wave generation means)
The ultrasonic wave generating means is one form of vibration adding means for applying vibration to the brush bristles 3 by generating ultrasonic waves. Since the bristle 3 vibrates finely by generating an ultrasonic wave, the bristle 3 can be prevented from being caught by the discharge port. Furthermore, since the attached matter attached to the discharge port is easily separated by the fine vibration of the brush bristles 3, it is easy to remove the attached matter.
　振動付加手段としては、超音波発生手段の他に、例えば、偏芯カムを設けたローラ、ピエゾ素子などが挙げられる。振動付加手段がブラシ毛に振動を与えることによって、ブラシ毛の先端が吐出口に侵入しやすくなる。よって、吐出口に付着した付着物を好適に除去することができる。 As the vibration applying means, in addition to the ultrasonic wave generating means, for example, a roller provided with an eccentric cam, a piezo element, and the like can be cited. When the vibration applying means gives vibration to the brush hair, the tip of the brush hair easily enters the discharge port. Therefore, the deposit | attachment adhering to a discharge outlet can be removed suitably.
　偏芯カムを設けたローラ、ピエゾ素子などの振動付加手段が付与する振動数としては、１ｋＨｚ以上であることが好ましく、３．３ｋＨｚ以上であることがより好ましい。振動数が、１ｋＨｚ以上であることによりブラシ毛の先端が吐出口に侵入しやすくなる、振動数が、３．３ｋＨｚ以上であることによりブラシ毛の先端がさらに吐出口に侵入しやすくなる。 The frequency applied by vibration applying means such as a roller provided with an eccentric cam or a piezo element is preferably 1 kHz or more, and more preferably 3.3 kHz or more. When the frequency is 1 kHz or more, the tip of the brush hair easily enters the discharge port, and when the frequency is 3.3 kHz or more, the tip of the brush hair further easily enters the discharge port.
　超音波発生手段などの振動付加手段が付与する振動数としては、３ＭＨｚ以下であることが好ましく、１．６ＭＨｚ以下であることがより好ましい。高周波振動は伝播の過程で減衰しやすいが、振動数が、３ＭＨｚ以下であることにより吐出口近傍、又は吐出口内の汚れまで汚れ除去に有効な振動を伝播させることができ、振動数が、１．６ＭＨｚ以下であることにより吐出口近傍、又は吐出口内の汚れまでさらに多くの振動を伝播させることができる。 The frequency applied by vibration applying means such as ultrasonic wave generating means is preferably 3 MHz or less, and more preferably 1.6 MHz or less. High-frequency vibrations are easily attenuated in the process of propagation, but when the frequency is 3 MHz or less, vibrations effective for removing dirt can be propagated to the vicinity of the discharge port or to dirt in the discharge port. By being 6 MHz or less, more vibration can be propagated to the vicinity of the discharge port or to the dirt in the discharge port.
　振動付加手段は、ブラシ本体のブラシ毛の直下に設けられていることが好ましい。これにより、ブラシ本体にて振動が減衰することなく、ブラシ毛に振動を付与することができる。 It is preferable that the vibration applying means is provided directly below the brush bristles of the brush body. Thereby, vibration can be imparted to the brush bristles without the vibration being attenuated by the brush body.
　（洗浄液供給手段６）
　洗浄液供給手段６は、ブラシ毛３に洗浄液を供給するためのものである。洗浄液供給手段６がブラシ毛３に洗浄液を供給することによって、ブラシ毛３に当該洗浄液が付着する。複数のブラシ毛３が密集しているため、毛細管現象によってブラシ毛３の間に洗浄液が保持される。よって、吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着した付着物の一部を溶かして除去することが容易である。 (Cleaning liquid supply means 6)
The cleaning liquid supply means 6 is for supplying the cleaning liquid to the brush bristles 3. When the cleaning liquid supply means 6 supplies the cleaning liquid to the brush bristles 3, the cleaning liquid adheres to the brush bristles 3. Since the plurality of brush bristles 3 are densely packed, the cleaning liquid is held between the bristles 3 by capillary action. Therefore, it is easy to melt and remove a part of the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2.
　超音波によりブラシ毛３に振動を与えている場合、ブラシ毛３に付着した洗浄液を介して、吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着した付着物に超音波を付与することができる。したがって、上記付着物を容易に除去することができる。 When vibration is applied to the brush bristles 3 by ultrasonic waves, the ultrasonic waves can be applied to the deposits attached to the discharge ports or the ink discharge surfaces 2 through the cleaning liquid attached to the brush bristles 3. Therefore, the deposits can be easily removed.
　洗浄液としては、インクから顔料、染料などを除いた液体（インクの溶媒）に溶解する液体を用いればよい。例えば、ソルベントインクなどの有機溶剤を溶媒としたインクでは、洗浄液としてアセトン、メチルエチルケトンなどを用いることが好ましい。これにより、吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着した付着物を好適に除去することができる。 As the cleaning liquid, a liquid that dissolves in a liquid (ink solvent) obtained by removing pigments, dyes, and the like from ink may be used. For example, in an ink using an organic solvent as a solvent, such as solvent ink, it is preferable to use acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, or the like as the cleaning liquid. Thereby, the deposit | attachment adhering to the discharge outlet or the ink discharge surface 2 can be removed suitably.
　（洗浄液受け７）
　洗浄液受け７は、洗浄液供給手段６と対面するように設けられており、ブラシ毛３に洗浄液を供給するときにブラシ毛３に付着しなかった洗浄液を貯留するためのものである。 (Cleaning liquid receiver 7)
The cleaning liquid receiver 7 is provided so as to face the cleaning liquid supply means 6 and stores the cleaning liquid that has not adhered to the brush bristles 3 when the cleaning liquid is supplied to the bristles 3.
　また、本発明の一形態として、洗浄液供給手段を洗浄液受けに取り付けて洗浄液受けに洗浄液を貯留し、当該洗浄液にブラシ毛を浸漬させることによりブラシ毛に洗浄液を供給してもよい。他には、洗浄液受けに洗浄液を貯留し、吐出口又はインク吐出面の清掃後に付着物が付着したブラシ毛を洗浄液受けの洗浄液に浸漬させてもよい。 Also, as an embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning liquid supply means may be attached to the cleaning liquid receiver, the cleaning liquid may be stored in the cleaning liquid receiver, and the brush hair may be immersed in the cleaning liquid to supply the cleaning liquid to the brush hair. Alternatively, the cleaning liquid may be stored in the cleaning liquid receiver, and the brush bristles with deposits attached after cleaning of the discharge port or the ink discharge surface may be immersed in the cleaning liquid of the cleaning liquid receiver.
　以上より、本発明に係るインクジェット記録装置は、長期間にわたって高画質印刷が可能である。 As described above, the inkjet recording apparatus according to the present invention can perform high-quality printing over a long period of time.
　〔インクジェットヘッド１の清掃方法〕
　次に、インクジェットヘッド１の清掃方法について説明する。本実施形態に係るインクジェットヘッド１の清掃方法は、インクを吐出する吐出口が形成されたインク吐出面２を有するインクジェットヘッド１を、ブラシ毛３により清掃する清掃工程を含み、上記清掃工程では、上記吐出口の径よりも細い先端の径を有するブラシ毛３が、インク吐出面２に接触することにより、上記吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着した付着物を除去する。なお、一実施形態として、インクジェット記録装置２０が備えるインクジェットヘッド１の清掃方法を説明する。 [Cleaning method of inkjet head 1]
Next, a method for cleaning the inkjet head 1 will be described. The cleaning method of the inkjet head 1 according to the present embodiment includes a cleaning process of cleaning the inkjet head 1 having the ink ejection surface 2 on which the ejection port for ejecting ink is formed with the brush bristles 3. When the bristle 3 having a tip diameter smaller than the diameter of the ejection port comes into contact with the ink ejection surface 2, the adhering matter attached to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2 is removed. As an embodiment, a method for cleaning the inkjet head 1 provided in the inkjet recording apparatus 20 will be described.
　まず、インクジェットヘッド１をクリーニングしていない待機状態の場合、ブラシ毛３は、洗浄液供給手段６の下に位置している。 First, in a standby state where the inkjet head 1 is not cleaned, the brush bristles 3 are located under the cleaning liquid supply means 6.
　インクジェットヘッド１の吐出口又はインク吐出面２のクリーニングが必要になったとき、まず、吸引又はパージを行い、その後、インク吐出面２のワイピング（拭き取り）を行う。これにより、インク吐出面２に付着した、大きな付着物又は高粘度化したインクが除去される。 When it becomes necessary to clean the discharge port of the inkjet head 1 or the ink discharge surface 2, first, suction or purge is performed, and then the ink discharge surface 2 is wiped. As a result, the large adhering matter or the ink having increased viscosity attached to the ink ejection surface 2 is removed.
　ここで「パージ」とは、インクジェットヘッド１を振動させずに、インクジェットヘッド１にインクを供給する際の供給圧を上げることで吐出口からインクを吐出して、吐出口を清掃することをいう。供給圧は、例えば、大気圧以上に上げることによって、パージが適切に行われる。またパージを行なう場合には、インクジェット記録装置２０内に、パージによって吐出されるインクを回収する部材を設けてもよい。 Here, “purge” refers to cleaning the discharge port by discharging ink from the discharge port by increasing the supply pressure when supplying ink to the inkjet head 1 without vibrating the inkjet head 1. . Purge is appropriately performed by raising the supply pressure to, for example, atmospheric pressure or higher. Further, when purging, a member for collecting ink ejected by purging may be provided in the inkjet recording apparatus 20.
　次に、吐出口のチェックを行い、吐出精度が悪化した吐出口を特定する。特定方法としては、公知の方法を用いればよいが、例えば、チェックパターンを印刷して目視で行ってもよく、光学センサで行ってもよい。 Next, the discharge port is checked to identify the discharge port whose discharge accuracy has deteriorated. As a specific method, a known method may be used. For example, a check pattern may be printed and visually checked, or an optical sensor may be used.
　洗浄液供給手段６によりブラシ毛３に洗浄液を付着させた後、ブラシ毛３がインクジェットヘッド１を洗浄できるように、インクジェットヘッド１及びブラシ本体４を移動させる。インクジェットヘッド１については、ヘッドを搭載するキャリッジ（図示せず）を移動させ、ブラシ本体４については、ブラシ移動手段５により、ブラシ本体４を水平方向に移動させればよい。これにより、ブラシ毛３の先端とインク吐出面２とが接触できる位置にインクジェットヘッド１及びブラシ本体４がそれぞれ移動する。 After the cleaning liquid is attached to the brush bristles 3 by the cleaning liquid supply means 6, the ink jet head 1 and the brush body 4 are moved so that the brush bristles 3 can clean the ink jet head 1. For the inkjet head 1, a carriage (not shown) for mounting the head is moved, and for the brush body 4, the brush body 4 may be moved in the horizontal direction by the brush moving means 5. As a result, the inkjet head 1 and the brush body 4 move to positions where the tip of the brush bristles 3 and the ink discharge surface 2 can contact each other.
　このとき、ブラシ移動手段５を制御してブラシ本体４を移動させ、ブラシ毛３を特定の吐出口付近に移動させる。特定の吐出口としては、上記吐出口のチェックにより特定した吐出精度が悪化した吐出口であってもよく、予め決めておいた吐出口であってもよい。 At this time, the brush moving means 5 is controlled to move the brush body 4, and the brush bristles 3 are moved to the vicinity of a specific discharge port. The specific discharge port may be a discharge port with deteriorated discharge accuracy specified by checking the discharge port, or may be a predetermined discharge port.
　次に、ブラシ本体４に内蔵されたピエゾ素子、又はブラシ本体４に設けられた偏芯カムを取り付けたモータを用いて、あるいは、超音波発生手段を用いてブラシ本体４及びブラシ毛３に振動を与えてもよい。ブラシ本体４及びブラシ毛３に振動を与えた状態で、ブラシ移動手段５を移動させて、ブラシ本体４を矢印Ｘ方向に往復移動させる。 Next, the brush body 4 and the bristles 3 are vibrated using a piezo element built in the brush body 4 or a motor to which an eccentric cam provided on the brush body 4 is attached, or using ultrasonic wave generation means. May be given. In a state where vibration is applied to the brush body 4 and the bristles 3, the brush moving means 5 is moved to reciprocate the brush body 4 in the arrow X direction.
　このとき、インクジェットヘッド１へのインク供給圧を上昇させて、吐出口からインクを滲み出させてもよい。これにより、インクとともに剥離した付着物を吐出口から排出することができる。 At this time, the ink supply pressure to the inkjet head 1 may be increased to allow the ink to ooze out from the ejection port. Thereby, the deposit | attachment peeled with the ink can be discharged | emitted from an ejection outlet.
　特定の吐出口付近をブラシ毛３が往復運動して、吐出口又はインク吐出面２をクリーニングするようにブラシ移動手段５を制御してもよいが、特定の吐出口以外の全吐出口又はインク吐出面２の全体をブラシ毛３がクリーニングするようにブラシ移動手段５を制御してもよい。 The brush moving means 5 may be controlled so that the brush bristles 3 reciprocate in the vicinity of a specific discharge port to clean the discharge port or the ink discharge surface 2. However, all the discharge ports or inks other than the specific discharge port may be controlled. The brush moving means 5 may be controlled so that the brush bristles 3 clean the entire discharge surface 2.
　次に、図３Ａおよび図３Ｂを用いて、インク吐出面２に形成された吐出口の清掃について説明する。図３Ａおよび図３Ｂは、本発明の第１実施形態にて、インク吐出面に形成された吐出口をブラシ毛により清掃することを模式的に示す図である。 Next, cleaning of the discharge ports formed on the ink discharge surface 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B. FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are diagrams schematically showing cleaning of the discharge ports formed on the ink discharge surface with brush hairs in the first embodiment of the present invention.
　まず、図３Ａに示すように、インク吐出面２に形成された複数の吐出口からなる吐出口の列８とブラシ本体４に形成された複数のブラシ毛３からなるブラシ毛の列とが平行な状態を維持したまま、吐出口又はインク吐出面２をクリーニングしてもよい。なお、一般的にブラシ毛は、数百本単位で行列をなしてブラシ本体４に設けられている。 First, as shown in FIG. 3A, a row 8 of discharge ports formed of a plurality of discharge ports formed on the ink discharge surface 2 and a row of brush hairs formed of a plurality of brush hairs 3 formed on the brush body 4 are parallel to each other. The discharge port or the ink discharge surface 2 may be cleaned while maintaining a simple state. In general, the brush bristles are provided in the brush body 4 in a matrix of several hundred units.
　図３Ｂに示すように、吐出口の列８に対してブラシ毛の列を傾斜（図中は１０度傾斜させている）させてもよい。吐出口の列に対してブラシ毛の列を数十度傾斜させた場合、吐出口の列に対してブラシ毛の列を平行にした場合と比較して、吐出口又はインク吐出面をより好適にクリーニングすることができる。クリーニングを何度も行うことによりブラシ毛の先が寝てきた場合、又はブラシ毛同士が絡み合ってきたりした場合であっても、ブラシ毛の先端を確実に吐出口に当てることができるためである。 As shown in FIG. 3B, the row of brush hairs may be inclined (inclined by 10 degrees in the drawing) with respect to the row 8 of discharge ports. When the row of brush bristles is tilted by several tens of degrees with respect to the row of discharge ports, the discharge port or the ink discharge surface is more suitable than when the row of brush bristles is parallel to the row of discharge ports Can be cleaned. This is because the tip of the brush hair can be reliably applied to the discharge port even when the tip of the brush hair falls asleep by performing cleaning many times or when the brush hairs are entangled with each other. .
　ブラシ毛３により吐出口又はインク吐出面２のクリーニングが終了したとき、メニスカスが壊れている。メニスカスが壊れている場合、インク速度、着弾精度などに影響を及ぼすおそれがあるため、インクジェットヘッド１の通常のクリーニングを再度行ない、メニスカスを形成する必要がある。通常のクリーニングとは、例えば、インクの吸引又はパージを行ない、必要に応じてワイピングを行なうことである。 When the cleaning of the discharge port or the ink discharge surface 2 by the brush bristles 3 is completed, the meniscus is broken. When the meniscus is broken, there is a risk of affecting the ink speed, landing accuracy, etc. Therefore, it is necessary to perform normal cleaning of the inkjet head 1 again to form the meniscus. The normal cleaning is, for example, performing ink suction or purging and wiping as necessary.
　インクジェットヘッド１のクリーニングが終了した後、ブラシ移動手段５を制御してブラシ本体４を移動させ、ブラシ毛３を洗浄液供給手段６の下に移動させる。 After cleaning of the inkjet head 1 is completed, the brush moving means 5 is controlled to move the brush body 4 and the brush bristles 3 are moved below the cleaning liquid supply means 6.
　ブラシ毛３が洗浄液供給手段６の下に移動した後、洗浄液供給手段６はブラシ毛３に洗浄液を滴下し、ブラシ毛３に付着した付着物を除去する。 After the brush bristles 3 have moved below the cleaning liquid supply means 6, the cleaning liquid supply means 6 drops the cleaning liquid onto the brush bristles 3 and removes deposits adhering to the brush bristles 3.
　このとき、ブラシ本体４に内蔵されたピエゾ素子、又はブラシ本体４に設けられた偏芯カムを取り付けたモータを用いてブラシ本体４及びブラシ毛３に振動を与えることにより、ブラシ毛３に付着した汚れを効率的に除去することができる。 At this time, vibration is applied to the brush body 4 and the brush bristles 3 using a piezo element built in the brush body 4 or a motor to which an eccentric cam provided on the brush body 4 is attached. The removed dirt can be removed efficiently.
　洗浄液受け７に洗浄液を貯留しておき、ブラシ毛３を浸漬することにより、ブラシ毛３に付着した汚れを除去してもよい。このとき、ブラシ毛３（及びブラシ本体４）を回転させることにより、ブラシ毛３に付着した汚れを効率的に除去することができる。 The dirt attached to the brush bristles 3 may be removed by storing the washing liquid in the washing liquid receiver 7 and immersing the bristles 3 in the cleaning liquid receiver 7. At this time, the dirt adhering to the brush bristles 3 can be efficiently removed by rotating the bristles 3 (and the brush body 4).
　本発明に係るインクジェットヘッドの清掃方法には、インクジェット記録装置が備えるブラシ本体を用いてインクジェットヘッドを自動的に清掃する場合のみならず、ブラシ本体を用いてインクジェットヘッドを手動で清掃する場合も含まれる。 The inkjet head cleaning method according to the present invention includes not only the case where the inkjet head is automatically cleaned using the brush body included in the inkjet recording apparatus, but also the case where the inkjet head is manually cleaned using the brush body. It is.
　［第２実施形態］
　本発明の第２実施形態について、図２に基づいて説明すれば、以下のとおりである。図２は、本発明の第２実施形態に係るインクジェット記録装置を模式的に示す図である。なお、説明の便宜上、前記第１実施形態にて説明した図面と同じ機能を有する部材については、同じ符号を付記し、その説明を省略する。 [Second Embodiment]
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing an ink jet recording apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those in the drawings described in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.
　第２実施形態に係るインクジェット記録装置３０は、ブラシ移動手段５の代わりにブラシ回転手段１１を備えている点、ならびに、洗浄液供給手段６及び洗浄液受け７の代わりに洗浄槽１２を備えている点で、第１実施形態に係るインクジェット記録装置２０と異なる。 The ink jet recording apparatus 30 according to the second embodiment includes a brush rotating unit 11 instead of the brush moving unit 5, and a cleaning tank 12 instead of the cleaning liquid supply unit 6 and the cleaning liquid receiver 7. Thus, it is different from the inkjet recording apparatus 20 according to the first embodiment.
　〔ブラシ回転手段１１〕
　ブラシ回転手段１１は、ブラシ本体４を支持し、ブラシ本体４を図２中の矢印Ａ方向に回転させるための回転手段である。ブラシ本体４に支持されているブラシ毛３の先端がインク吐出面２に接触しているとき、ブラシ本体４を矢印Ａ方向に回転させることにより、ブラシ毛３の先端が、複数の吐出口又はインク吐出面２に接触する。 [Brush rotating means 11]
The brush rotating means 11 is a rotating means for supporting the brush body 4 and rotating the brush body 4 in the direction of arrow A in FIG. When the tip of the brush bristles 3 supported by the brush body 4 is in contact with the ink discharge surface 2, the tip of the brush bristles 3 is turned into a plurality of discharge ports or by rotating the brush body 4 in the direction of arrow A. Contact the ink ejection surface 2.
　ブラシ回転手段１１は、ブラシ本体４を回転させる機構だけでなく、ブラシ本体４を任意の方向に移動させる機構を備えていてもよい。 The brush rotating means 11 may include not only a mechanism for rotating the brush body 4 but also a mechanism for moving the brush body 4 in an arbitrary direction.
　〔洗浄槽１２〕
　洗浄槽１２は、洗浄液を貯留し、吐出口又はインク吐出面２の清掃後に付着物が付着したブラシ毛３を洗浄液に浸漬するためのものである。また、ブラシ毛３を洗浄槽１２に納めることができる。 [Washing tank 12]
The cleaning tank 12 is for storing the cleaning liquid and immersing the brush hair 3 to which the deposits adhere after cleaning the discharge port or the ink discharge surface 2 in the cleaning liquid. Further, the brush bristles 3 can be stored in the cleaning tank 12.
　〔インクジェットヘッド１の清掃方法〕
　次に、インクジェットヘッド１の清掃方法について簡単に説明する。なお、第１実施形態にて説明した事項については、その説明を省略する。 [Cleaning method of inkjet head 1]
Next, a method for cleaning the inkjet head 1 will be briefly described. In addition, the description about the matter demonstrated in 1st Embodiment is abbreviate | omitted.
　まず、インクジェットヘッド１をクリーニングしていない待機状態の場合、ブラシ毛３は、洗浄槽１２に納められている。このとき、洗浄槽１２中には洗浄液が貯留されていてもよい。 First, in a standby state where the inkjet head 1 is not cleaned, the brush bristles 3 are stored in the cleaning tank 12. At this time, the cleaning liquid may be stored in the cleaning tank 12.
　洗浄槽１２中に洗浄液を貯留してブラシ毛３に洗浄液を付着させた後、ブラシ回転手段１１により、ブラシ本体４を図２中の矢印Ａ方向に移動させる。これにより、ブラシ毛３の先端とインク吐出面２とが接触し、インク吐出面２又は吐出口に付着した付着物を除去することができる。 After storing the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 12 and attaching the cleaning liquid to the brush bristles 3, the brush main body 4 is moved in the direction of arrow A in FIG. Thereby, the front-end | tip of the bristle 3 and the ink discharge surface 2 contact, and the deposit | attachment adhering to the ink discharge surface 2 or the discharge port can be removed.
　このとき、ブラシ回転手段１１を制御してブラシ本体４を回転させながら移動させてもよい。これにより、特定の吐出口以外の全吐出口又はインク吐出面２の全体をブラシ毛３がクリーニングできる。 At this time, the brush rotating means 11 may be controlled to move the brush body 4 while rotating it. Thereby, the brush bristles 3 can clean all the ejection ports other than the specific ejection port or the entire ink ejection surface 2.
　インクジェットヘッド１のクリーニング後に、洗浄液を貯留した洗浄槽１２にブラシ毛３を浸漬することにより、ブラシ毛３に付着した汚れを除去してもよい。このとき、振動付加手段によりブラシ毛を振動させてもよい。これにより、ブラシ毛３に付着した汚れを効率的に除去することができる。 After the inkjet head 1 is cleaned, dirt attached to the brush bristles 3 may be removed by immersing the bristles 3 in the cleaning tank 12 storing the cleaning liquid. At this time, the bristles may be vibrated by vibration applying means. Thereby, the stain | pollution | contamination adhering to the bristle 3 can be removed efficiently.
　以上より、本発明に係るインクジェット記録装置及びインクジェットヘッドの清掃方法は、長期間にわたって高画質印刷が可能である。 As described above, the ink jet recording apparatus and the ink jet head cleaning method according to the present invention can perform high quality printing over a long period of time.
　〔付記事項〕
　本発明の第１実施形態に係るインクジェット記録装置２０は、インクを吐出する吐出口が形成されたインク吐出面２を有するインクジェットヘッド１と、先端がインク吐出面２に接触することにより、上記吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着した付着物を除去するブラシ毛３とを備え、上記先端の径は、上記吐出口の径より細い。 [Additional Notes]
The ink jet recording apparatus 20 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes an ink jet head 1 having an ink ejection surface 2 on which ejection openings for ejecting ink are formed, and the discharge of the ink jet recording apparatus 20 by contacting the ink ejection surface 2 with the tip. Brush bristles 3 for removing deposits adhering to the outlet or the ink discharge surface 2, and the diameter of the tip is smaller than the diameter of the discharge port.
　ブラシ毛３の先端の径は、吐出口の径よりも細いため、当該先端は容易に吐出口に侵入する。そのため、吐出口近傍、又は吐出口内の汚れを好適に除去することができる。また、ブラシ毛３の先端とインクジェットヘッド１とが接触しても大きな負担がかからないため、インクジェットヘッド１のインク吐出面２が損傷することを防止できる。 Since the diameter of the tip of the brush bristles 3 is smaller than the diameter of the discharge port, the tip easily enters the discharge port. Therefore, dirt in the vicinity of the discharge port or in the discharge port can be suitably removed. In addition, even if the tip of the brush bristles 3 and the inkjet head 1 come into contact with each other, a large burden is not applied, so that the ink discharge surface 2 of the inkjet head 1 can be prevented from being damaged.
　したがって、本発明の一実施形態に係るインクジェット記録装置２０は、長期間にわたって高画質印刷が可能である。 Therefore, the inkjet recording apparatus 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention can perform high-quality printing over a long period of time.
　インクジェット記録装置２０は、ブラシ毛２に振動を与える振動付加手段をさらに備える。 The ink jet recording apparatus 20 further includes vibration adding means for applying vibration to the brush bristles 2.
　振動付加手段がブラシ毛３に振動を与えることによって、ブラシ毛３の先端が吐出口に侵入しやすくなる。よって、吐出口に付着した付着物を好適に除去することができる。 When the vibration applying means gives vibration to the bristle 3, the tip of the bristle 3 can easily enter the discharge port. Therefore, the deposit | attachment adhering to a discharge outlet can be removed suitably.
　インクジェット記録装置２０では、上記振動付加手段は、超音波を発生させてブラシ毛３に振動を与える。 In the ink jet recording apparatus 20, the vibration applying means generates ultrasonic waves and applies vibrations to the brush bristles 3.
　振動付加手段が超音波を発生させることによって、ブラシ毛３は微細に振動する。ブラシ毛３の微細な振動により吐出口に付着した付着物が離れやすくなるため、当該付着物を除去することが容易である。 The brush bristles 3 vibrate finely when the vibration applying means generates ultrasonic waves. Since the attached matter attached to the discharge port is easily separated by the minute vibration of the brush bristles 3, it is easy to remove the attached matter.
　インクジェット記録装置２０は、ブラシ毛３に洗浄液を供給する洗浄液供給手段６をさらに備える。 The inkjet recording apparatus 20 further includes a cleaning liquid supply unit 6 that supplies a cleaning liquid to the brush bristles 3.
　洗浄液供給手段６がブラシ毛３に洗浄液を供給することによって、ブラシ毛３に当該洗浄液が付着する。ブラシ毛３に付着した洗浄液によって、吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着した付着物の一部を溶かして除去することが容易である。 The cleaning liquid is supplied to the bristles 3 by the cleaning liquid supply means 6 supplying the bristles 3 with the cleaning liquid. It is easy to dissolve and remove a part of the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2 by the cleaning liquid adhering to the brush bristles 3.
　また、複数のブラシ毛３が密集している場合、毛細管現象によってブラシ毛３の間に洗浄液が保持される。この場合、吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着した付着物の一部を溶かして除去することがより容易である。 In addition, when a plurality of brush bristles 3 are densely packed, the cleaning liquid is held between the bristles 3 by capillary action. In this case, it is easier to dissolve and remove a part of the adhering matter adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2.
　超音波によりブラシ毛３に振動を与えている場合、ブラシ毛３に付着した洗浄液を介して、吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着した付着物に超音波を付与することができる。したがって、上記付着物を容易に除去することができる。 When vibration is applied to the brush bristles 3 by ultrasonic waves, the ultrasonic waves can be applied to the deposits attached to the discharge ports or the ink discharge surfaces 2 through the cleaning liquid attached to the brush bristles 3. Therefore, the deposits can be easily removed.
　インクジェット記録装置２０は、上記吐出口の径に対する上記先端の径の割合は、４％以上、５０％以下である。 In the inkjet recording apparatus 20, the ratio of the diameter of the tip to the diameter of the discharge port is 4% or more and 50% or less.
　先端の径の割合が４％以上であることにより、ブラシ毛３は吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着した付着物を好適に除去することができる。先端の径の割合が５０％以下であることにより、ブラシ毛３の先端はより容易に吐出口に侵入することができ、当該吐出口に付着した付着物を好適に除去することができる。 When the ratio of the tip diameter is 4% or more, the brush bristles 3 can suitably remove deposits adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface 2. When the ratio of the diameter of the tip is 50% or less, the tip of the brush bristles 3 can more easily enter the discharge port, and deposits attached to the discharge port can be suitably removed.
　インクジェット記録装置２０では、ブラシ毛３は、ポリブチレンテレフタレート、ナイロン、ポリプロピレンからなる群より選択される材料から形成される。 In the ink jet recording apparatus 20, the brush bristles 3 are formed of a material selected from the group consisting of polybutylene terephthalate, nylon, and polypropylene.
　上記材料から形成されるブラシ毛３は、耐摩耗性及び耐溶剤性に優れている。よって、長期間にわたってインクジェットヘッド１の清掃性能を維持することができる。 The brush bristles 3 formed from the above materials are excellent in wear resistance and solvent resistance. Therefore, the cleaning performance of the inkjet head 1 can be maintained over a long period of time.
　本発明の第１実施形態に係るインクジェットヘッド１の清掃方法は、インクを吐出する吐出口が形成されたインク吐出面２を有するインクジェットヘッド１を、ブラシ毛３により清掃する清掃工程を含み、上記清掃工程では、上記吐出口の径よりも細い先端の径を有するブラシ毛３が、インク吐出面２に接触することにより、上記吐出口又はインク吐出面２に付着した付着物を除去する。 The cleaning method of the inkjet head 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a cleaning step of cleaning the inkjet head 1 having the ink ejection surface 2 on which the ejection port for ejecting ink is formed with the brush bristles 3. In the cleaning process, the brush bristles 3 having a tip diameter smaller than the diameter of the discharge port come into contact with the ink discharge surface 2 to remove the deposits attached to the discharge port or the ink discharge surface 2.
　第１実施形態に係るインクジェットヘッド１の清掃方法によれば、上記インクジェット記録装置２０と同様の効果を奏する。 According to the cleaning method for the ink jet head 1 according to the first embodiment, the same effects as those of the ink jet recording apparatus 20 can be obtained.
　本発明は上述した各実施形態に限定されるものではなく、請求項に示した範囲で種々の変更が可能であり、異なる実施形態にそれぞれ開示された技術的手段を適宜組み合わせて得られる実施形態についても本発明の技術的範囲に含まれる。 The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope shown in the claims, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means disclosed in different embodiments. Is also included in the technical scope of the present invention.
　本発明に係るインクジェットヘッドの清掃方法は、インクジェット印刷装置に利用することができる。 The ink jet head cleaning method according to the present invention can be used in an ink jet printing apparatus.
　１　　　　　インクジェットヘッド
　２　　　　　インク吐出面
　３　　　　　ブラシ毛
　４　　　　　ブラシ本体
　５　　　　　ブラシ移動手段
　６　　　　　洗浄液供給手段
　７　　　　　洗浄液受け
　８　　　　　吐出口の列
　１１　　　　ブラシ回転手段
　１２　　　　洗浄槽
　２０、３０　インクジェット記録装置 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Inkjet head 2 Ink ejection surface 3 Brush bristles 4 Brush body 5 Brush moving means 6 Cleaning liquid supply means 7 Cleaning liquid receptacle 8 Row of discharge ports 11 Brush rotating means 12 Cleaning tanks 20 and 30 Inkjet recording apparatus

Claims (7)

  1. 　インクを吐出する吐出口が形成されたインク吐出面を有するインクジェットヘッドと、
    　先端が上記インク吐出面に接触することにより、上記吐出口又は上記インク吐出面に付着した付着物を除去するブラシ毛とを備え、
    　上記先端の径は、上記吐出口の径より細いことを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。     An inkjet head having an ink ejection surface on which ejection ports for ejecting ink are formed;
    A brush bristle that removes deposits adhering to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface by having the tip contact the ink ejection surface;
    An ink jet recording apparatus, wherein a diameter of the tip is smaller than a diameter of the discharge port.
  2. 　上記ブラシ毛に振動を与える振動付加手段をさらに備えることを特徴とする請求項１に記載のインクジェット記録装置。 2. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising vibration applying means for applying vibration to the brush bristles.
  3. 　上記振動付加手段は、超音波を発生させて上記ブラシ毛に振動を与えることを特徴とする請求項２に記載のインクジェット記録装置。 3. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the vibration applying means generates an ultrasonic wave to apply vibration to the brush bristles.
  4. 　上記ブラシ毛に洗浄液を供給する洗浄液供給手段をさらに備えることを特徴とする請求項１に記載のインクジェット記録装置。 2. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising cleaning liquid supply means for supplying a cleaning liquid to the brush bristles.
  5. 　上記吐出口の径に対する上記先端の径の割合は、４％以上、５０％以下であることを特徴とする請求項１に記載のインクジェット記録装置。 2. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a ratio of the diameter of the tip to the diameter of the discharge port is 4% or more and 50% or less.
  6. 　上記ブラシ毛は、ポリブチレンテレフタレート、ナイロン、ポリプロピレンからなる群より選択される材料から形成されることを特徴とする請求項１から５のいずれか一項に記載のインクジェット記録装置。 6. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the brush bristles are formed of a material selected from the group consisting of polybutylene terephthalate, nylon, and polypropylene.
  7. 　インクを吐出する吐出口が形成されたインク吐出面を有するインクジェットヘッドを、ブラシ毛により清掃する清掃工程を含み、
    　上記清掃工程では、上記吐出口の径よりも細い先端の径を有する上記ブラシ毛が、上記インク吐出面に接触することにより、上記吐出口又は上記インク吐出面に付着した付着物を除去することを特徴とするインクジェットヘッドの清掃方法。     Including a cleaning step of cleaning the ink jet head having an ink discharge surface on which a discharge port for discharging ink is formed by brush bristles;
    In the cleaning step, the brush bristles having a tip diameter smaller than the diameter of the ejection port come into contact with the ink ejection surface, thereby removing deposits attached to the ejection port or the ink ejection surface. A method for cleaning an inkjet head characterized by the above.
PCT/JP2013/074988 2012-09-27 2013-09-17 Ink jet recording device and ink jet head cleaning method WO2014050628A1 (en)

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