WO2022097212A1 - インクジェット記録装置 - Google Patents
インクジェット記録装置 Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2022097212A1 WO2022097212A1 PCT/JP2020/041247 JP2020041247W WO2022097212A1 WO 2022097212 A1 WO2022097212 A1 WO 2022097212A1 JP 2020041247 W JP2020041247 W JP 2020041247W WO 2022097212 A1 WO2022097212 A1 WO 2022097212A1
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- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- ink
- inkjet recording
- solvent
- head
- nozzle
- Prior art date
Links
- 239000002904 solvent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 186
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 62
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 claims description 251
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 95
- 238000011084 recovery Methods 0.000 claims description 50
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 claims description 46
- 238000007639 printing Methods 0.000 claims description 30
- 238000007599 discharging Methods 0.000 claims description 10
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000005406 washing Methods 0.000 claims 4
- 239000000976 ink Substances 0.000 description 374
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 95
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Images
Classifications
-
- 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
- B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
- B41J2/1721—Collecting waste ink; Collectors therefor
-
- 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
- B41J2/07—Ink jet characterised by jet control
-
- 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—Prevention or detection of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
- B41J2/16517—Cleaning of print head nozzles
- B41J2/16552—Cleaning of print head nozzles using cleaning fluids
-
- 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
- B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
- B41J2/18—Ink recirculation systems
-
- 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
- B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
- B41J2/18—Ink recirculation systems
- B41J2/185—Ink-collectors; Ink-catchers
-
- 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
- B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
- B41J2/1721—Collecting waste ink; Collectors therefor
- B41J2/1728—Closed waste ink collectors
- B41J2/1735—Closed waste ink collectors with ink supply tank in common containers
-
- 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
- B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
- B41J2/1721—Collecting waste ink; Collectors therefor
- B41J2/1742—Open waste ink collectors, e.g. ink receiving from a print head above the collector during borderless printing
-
- 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—Prevention or detection of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
- B41J2/16517—Cleaning of print head nozzles
- B41J2/16552—Cleaning of print head nozzles using cleaning fluids
- B41J2002/16555—Air or gas for cleaning
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an inkjet recording device.
- Patent Document 1 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2020-49786 is known as a technique related to this technical field. Patent Document 1 describes "an ink container containing ink for printing on an object to be printed, a nozzle connected to the ink container and ejecting pressure-supplied ink, and ejecting from the nozzle.
- the charging electrode for charging the ink particles the deflection electrode for deflecting the ink particles charged by the charging electrode, the gutter for collecting the ink not used for printing, the solvent container containing the solvent, and the solvent container.
- a "inkprint recording apparatus characterized by having a liquid discharge hole portion formed at an angle such that the solvent hits the nozzle through the liquid flow path portion" is disclosed.
- Patent Document 2 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2019-123117
- an ink container containing ink for printing on an object to be printed a nozzle connected to the ink container and ejected under pressure, and ejected from the nozzle.
- a charging electrode that charges the ink particles
- a charging signal generator that generates a charging signal that charges the charging electrode
- a deflection electrode that deflects the ink particles charged by the charging electrode
- ink that is not used for printing A first charge detection device provided with a gutter and a control unit for controlling the overall operation, which detects the amount of charge due to the charging of the ink particles between the charging electrode and the deflection electrode.
- an inkjet recording apparatus comprising: a means and a second charge detecting means for detecting the amount of ink flowing in the gutter.
- Patent Document 1 a solvent is discharged from a liquid nozzle to a print head set in a head cleaning unit to clean ink stains on the print head (head cleaning step), and then air is discharged from an air nozzle.
- the configuration and control method of the inkjet recording apparatus for drying the solvent adhering to the print head (head drying step) are described.
- the solvent (liquid) may change to the solvent vapor (gas), and the solvent vapor may float around the print head.
- Patent Document 2 describes a configuration and a control method of an inkjet recording device for detecting an abnormality (generally referred to as beam bending) in which ink particles ejected from a nozzle of a print head cannot be captured by a gutter. ing. Such anomalies (beam bending) may occur immediately after the start of ink ejection from the nozzles. If an abnormality (beam bending) occurs, the area around the print head may be stained with ink.
- beam bending an abnormality ink particles ejected from a nozzle of a print head cannot be captured by a gutter.
- an object of the present invention is to reduce the amount of solvent vapor floating around when cleaning the print head. Another object of the present invention is to reduce ink stains around the print head due to an abnormality generated at the start of ink ejection.
- the present invention includes, for example, a print head for printing, a path for supplying the ink in the ink container to the print head, and the ink not used for printing.
- a main body having a route for collecting the ink, a route for supplying the solvent in the solvent container to the ink container, and an adjusting unit for adjusting the flow of the ink and the solvent in each route, and the main body and the main body.
- An ink jet recording apparatus provided, which is connected to the cleaning tank and provided with a solvent vapor suction path for sucking and discharging solvent vapor generated in the cleaning tank and a drive unit for discharging the solvent steam. be.
- a nozzle that atomizes and ejects the input ink, a charging electrode that charges the ink particles ejected from the nozzle, and the ink particles charged by the charging electrode are deflected.
- a main body including an ink recovery path for collecting in the ink, a solvent supply path for supplying the solvent in the solvent container, and an adjusting unit for adjusting the flow of the ink and the solvent in each path, and the main body.
- a control unit that controls the print head, a cleaning tank having a space that can accommodate the print head, a cleaning nozzle that discharges the solvent toward the print head housed in the cleaning tank, and the print head.
- a charge sensor that detects the amount of charge of the ink particles charged by the charging electrode, which is an inkjet recording device including a head-mounted unit having an air ejection port that discharges the air to be dried into the cleaning tank.
- the control unit discharges the ink from the cleaning nozzle to clean the print head, and then detects whether or not the charge sensor has a reaction in a state where a voltage is applied to the deflection electrode. It is an ink-ink recording device.
- a nozzle that atomizes and ejects the input ink, a charging electrode that charges the ink particles ejected from the nozzle, and the ink particles charged by the charging electrode are deflected.
- a main body including an ink recovery path for collecting ink in the ink container, a solvent supply path for supplying the ink in the solvent container, and an adjusting unit for adjusting the flow of the ink and the solvent in each path, and the main body.
- An ink ink recording device including a control unit for controlling the print head and a head-mounted unit capable of accommodating the print head.
- the control unit the print head is mounted on the head-mounted unit.
- It is an inkjet recording apparatus characterized in that ink particles are started to be ejected from the nozzle after confirming the state of being in the ink.
- the present invention it is possible to reduce the amount of solvent vapor emitted around the print head when cleaning the print head, and it is possible to reduce the odor of the solvent vapor when cleaning the print head. Further, according to the present invention, by starting the ink ejection from the nozzle with the print head mounted on the head mounting unit, it is possible to reduce the contamination by the ink around the print head.
- FIG. 1 It is a perspective view which shows the usage situation of the inkjet recording apparatus in an Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the path structure of the inkjet recording apparatus in Example 1.
- FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the control part of the inkjet recording apparatus in Example 1.
- FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of the head mounting unit in Example 1.
- FIG. It is a figure which shows the state which removed the collection container in the head mounting unit.
- It is a fluid path diagram which shows the flow of liquid and the flow of gas of the whole apparatus at the time of performing the head cleaning process of Example 1 by a thick line.
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a head mounting unit showing a state in which a large amount of cleaning liquid is contained in the collection container of Example 1. The head cleaning mode selection screen in Example 1 is shown. It is a flowchart of the head cleaning process in Example 1.
- FIG. It is a figure which shows the ink stain determination method at the time of a head cleaning process, and the dry state determination method at the time of a head drying process in Example 2.
- FIG. It is a flowchart of the head cleaning process in Example 2.
- FIG. It is a flowchart of the operation stop process in Example 3.
- FIG. It is a time chart which shows the phase relationship between the excitation signal and the charge voltage for phase search in Example 4.
- FIG. It is a figure which shows the abnormality presence
- FIG. The operation start mode selection screen in Example 4 is shown. It is a flowchart of the operation start process in Example 4.
- FIG. It is a fluid path diagram which shows the flow of the liquid when the ink circulation in a main body is performed in Example 5.
- FIG. 5 It is a fluid path diagram which shows the flow of liquid and the flow of gas at the time of ink circulation of a main body and a print head in Example 5 by a thick line. It is a figure which shows the flow of ink at the time of nozzle cleaning and circulation path cleaning in Example 5 by a thick line.
- the long-term operation stop setting screen in Example 5 is shown. It is a flowchart of ink circulation at the time of long-term operation stop in Example 5.
- Example 1 the same device may be assigned the same number (reference numeral), and the description of the device already described may be omitted.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a usage state of the inkjet recording apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
- the inkjet recording devices 600A and 600B are connected by a main body 1, a print head 2 connected to the main body 1 by a cable (for a print head) 5, and a main body 1 and a cable (for a head mounting unit) 6, respectively.
- the head mounting unit 3 is provided.
- the head mounting unit 3 basically has a function of accommodating the print head, but a function of injecting a cleaning liquid to clean the print head may be added.
- the head mounting unit 3 described below has a configuration in which a function of cleaning the print head is added.
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600A shows a state in which the print head 2 is installed on the production line.
- the inkjet recording device 600B shows a state in which the print head 2 is removed from the production line and mounted (set) on the head mounting unit 3.
- the collection container 4 attached to the lower part of the head mounting unit 3 is provided to store the liquid (cleaning liquid) after the print head is cleaned by the head mounting unit 3.
- the inkjet recording device 600A is installed, for example, in a production line in a factory where food, beverages, etc. are produced, and the main body 1 is installed in a place where a space necessary for regular maintenance work can be secured.
- the print head 2 is fixed to the print head fixing metal fitting 13 installed near the belt conveyor 11 and prints on the print objects 12A and 12B fed in the direction of the arrow X on the production line such as the belt conveyor 11. It is installed in close proximity to do so. Further, a protective cover 17 is attached to the print head 2 for the purpose of protecting the parts inside the print head 2.
- the print target object 12B shows a state in which printing by the print head 2 is completed and is conveyed on the belt conveyor 11.
- the main body 1 stores (holds) ink for printing, and controls the drive unit (pump and solenoid valve) inside the main body to transfer the ink via the cable (for the print head) 5. It is supplied to the print head 2.
- the internal route configuration of the main body 1 and the details of the control unit will be described later.
- the operation display unit 8 is installed on the upper surface portion of the main body 1, and here, a touch input type display panel is used. By touching the operation display unit 8, the operator can instruct the control unit to start or stop the device and set the content to be printed on the print target 12A.
- 16 in the print head 2 indicates a head base
- 17 indicates a protective cover.
- the head mounting unit 3 is installed around the print head 2.
- the head mounting unit 3 in the inkjet recording device 600A is fixed by combining the fixing jig 92 assembled to the belt conveyor 11 with the fitting portion 93 assembled to the head mounting unit 3.
- the head mounting unit 3 has a head mounting portion 81A for mounting the print head 2 on the head mounting unit.
- the head mounting unit 3 has a start button 18 for starting the cleaning process of the print head 2, a stop button 19 for stopping the cleaning process of the print head 2, and an alarm such as a confirmation message, an alarm, or an abnormality.
- the display unit 20 may allow the operator to recognize the operating state and the presence / absence of an abnormality depending on, for example, the presence / absence of light or the difference in color of the light.
- the head mounting unit 3 is fixed in the vicinity of the belt conveyor 11, but the head mounting unit 3 can be freely replaced in a place that is easy for the user to operate.
- the length of the cable (for the head mounting unit) 6 connecting the main body 1 and the head mounting unit 3 is the same as or longer than the cable 5 connecting the main body 1 of the inkjet recording device 600 and the print head 2. Is preferable. This is to secure the degree of freedom in the arrangement of the head mounting unit.
- the main body 1 has a fixing portion 91 for fixing the head mounting unit 3, and the head mounting unit 3 removes the head mounting unit from the fixing jig (for conveyor) 92 and attaches to the fixing portion 91. It is also possible to replace it and use it.
- the head mounting unit 3 can also be fixed to the main body 1 by combining the fixing portion 91 assembled to the main body 1 with the aggregating portion 93.
- the head mounting unit 3 of the inkjet recording device 600B is attached to the main body 1.
- the print head 2 is set in the head mounting unit 3 in the inkjet recording device 600B.
- the print head 2 is mounted and set on the head mounting portion 81A of the head mounting unit 3 from the tip of the print head 2.
- the print head is supplied by the solvent 69A supplied from the main body 1 side via the cable (for the head mounting unit) 6. 2 can be washed.
- FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an overall route configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 600 in this embodiment.
- the main body 1 is provided with an ink container 31 that holds ink 68A for printing.
- the ink container 31 is provided with a liquid level sensor 31A that detects whether or not the liquid (ink 68A) in the ink container 31 has reached a reference liquid level, which is an appropriate amount to be held inside. ing.
- the ink container 31 is connected to the path (for supply) 801 at a portion immersed in the ink 68A, and a solenoid valve (for supply) 49 for opening and closing the path is installed in the middle of the path 801. .. Further, the path 801 is connected to a pump (for supply) 34 installed in the path 802 and used for sucking and pumping the ink 68A via the merging path 901. Then, on the output side of the pump (for supply) 34, it is connected to a filter (for supply) 39 that removes foreign matter mixed in the ink 68A.
- the filter (for supply) 39 is connected to a pressure regulating valve 46 that adjusts the pressure to an appropriate pressure for printing the ink 68A pressure-fed from the pump (for supply) 34, and the pressure regulating valve 46 is supplied to the nozzle 21. It is connected to a pressure sensor 47 that measures the pressure of the ink 68A.
- the path 802 in which the pressure sensor 47 is arranged is connected to the path 803 that passes through the cable (for the print head) 5 via the branch path 921, and the path 803 is provided in the print head 2 and the ink 68A is applied to the nozzle 21. Is connected to a switching valve 26 for controlling whether or not to supply the ink.
- the switching valve 26 is connected to a nozzle 21 provided with a discharge port 21A for ejecting ink 68A via a path 804.
- the switching valve 26 is a three-way solenoid valve, and the switching valve 26 is connected to a path 802 for ink supply and a path 835 for nozzle cleaning, and supplies ink 68A and solvent 69A to the nozzle 21. You can switch.
- a charging electrode 23 for adding a predetermined amount of charge to the ink particles 68B, a deflection electrode 24 for deflecting the ink particles 68B used for printing, and a deflection electrode 24 for printing are used.
- a gutter 25 is arranged to capture the ink particles 68B that fly straight ahead without being charged or deflected because they are not charged.
- the gutter 25 is connected to the path 811, and a charge sensor 48 for detecting whether the ink particles 68B to which the charge amount is added by the charging electrode 23 is collected is arranged in the path 811.
- the path 811 passes through the cable (for the print head) 5 and is connected to the filter (for recovery) 40 that removes foreign matter mixed in the ink arranged in the main body 1.
- the (recovery) 40 is connected to a solenoid valve (recovery) 50 that opens and closes the path.
- the solenoid valve (for recovery) 50 is arranged in the path 812 connected via the merging path 902, and is connected to the pump (for recovery) 35 that sucks the ink particles 68B captured by the gutter 25.
- the pump (for recovery) 35 is connected to the ink container 31. By opening the solenoid valve 50 and driving the pump 35, the ink particles 68B captured by the gutter 25 are collected in the ink container 31.
- the ink container 31 is connected to the path 814 in an upper space that does not come into contact with the ink 68A, and the path 814 is connected to an exhaust duct connecting portion 62 that communicates with the outside of the main body 1.
- the nozzle 21 provided in the print head 2 is connected to a path 821 passing through the cable (for the print head) 5 in addition to the ink supply path 804.
- a solenoid valve (for circulation) 59 that is provided in the main body 1 and opens and closes the flow path is arranged in the path 821.
- the solenoid valve (for circulation) 59 is connected to the path 822 via the merging path 903, and a pump (for circulation) 36 that sucks ink from the nozzle 21 is arranged in the path 822.
- the pump (for circulation) 36 is connected to the ink container 31.
- the ink container 31 is connected to the path (for viscosity measurement) 824 at a portion immersed in the ink 68A.
- the path (for viscosity measurement) 824 is connected to the viscometer 45 in order to grasp the viscosity of the ink 68A in the ink container 31.
- the viscometer 45 is connected to a solenoid valve (for viscosity measurement) 57 that opens and closes the path.
- the solenoid valve (for viscosity measurement) 57 is configured to be connected to a pump (for circulation) 36 arranged in the path 822 via the merging path 903.
- the ink 68A in the ink container 31 can be circulated in the viscosity measurement path to measure the viscosity of the ink 68A.
- the viscosity measured in this way is input to the control unit 7 (not shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 3), and is used for controlling the viscosity of the ink 68A in the ink container 31.
- the main body 1 is provided with a solvent container 33 that holds a solvent 69A for use in supplying a solvent to the ink container 31, cleaning a nozzle, or cleaning a head.
- the solvent container 33 is connected to the path 831 at a portion immersed in the solvent 69A, and a pump (for solvent) 37 used for sucking and pumping the solvent is arranged in the path 831.
- the pump (for solvent) 37 is connected to the branch path 922 in order to change the supply destination of the solvent 69A according to the purpose.
- the branch path 922 is connected to the solenoid valve (for solvent replenishment) 53 in order to open and close the flow path arranged in the path 833 in the solvent replenishment path, and the solenoid valve (for solvent replenishment) 53 is the ink container 31. It is a configuration connected to. Using this path, the viscosity of the ink 68A in the ink container 31 is controlled by the control of the control unit 7.
- the main body 1 is provided with an auxiliary ink container 32 for holding the replenishment ink 68C.
- the auxiliary ink container 32 is connected to the path 806 at a portion immersed in the ink 68C.
- the path 806 is connected to an electromagnetic valve (for ink replenishment) 54 that opens and closes the path, and the solenoid valve (for ink replenishment) 54 is installed in the path 801 via the merging path 901 to suck ink 68C.
- a pump (for supply) 34 used for pumping.
- the ink 68C in the auxiliary ink container 32 is replenished to the ink container 31 via the gutter 25, the path 811, the solenoid valve 50, and the pump 35 via the nozzle 21.
- the nozzle cleaning paths (paths 831 and 835) of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment will be described.
- the pump (for solvent) 37 arranged in the path 831 is connected to the path 835 via the branch path 922.
- the path 835 is connected to a solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 55 for opening and closing the flow path.
- the solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 55 is connected to a filter (for nozzle cleaning) 41 for removing foreign matter mixed in the solvent 69A.
- the filter (for nozzle cleaning) 41 is provided in the print head 2 via a path 821 passing through the cable (for print head) 5, and is for controlling whether or not the cleaning solvent 69A is sent to the nozzle 21. It is configured to be connected to the switching valve 26.
- the route 802 is connected to the route 808 via the branch route 921.
- the path 808 is connected to a solenoid valve (for main body circulation) 58 that opens and closes the path, and the solenoid valve (for main body circulation) 58 is connected to a pump (for circulation) installed in the path 812 via the merging path 902. ) 35 is connected.
- the pump (for solvent) 37 is connected to the path 837 via a branch path 922, and a solenoid valve (for head cleaning) 56 for opening and closing the flow path is arranged in the path 837.
- the solenoid valve (for cleaning the head) 56 is connected to a filter (for cleaning the head) 43 that removes foreign matter mixed in the solvent 69A.
- the filter (for cleaning the head) 42 is provided in the head mounting unit 3 via a path 822 passing through the cable (for the head mounting unit) 6 to remove foreign substances that may initially be mixed in the path 837. It is connected to the filter (for cleaning the head) 43.
- the output side of the filter (for head cleaning) 43 is connected to a cleaning nozzle 72 provided inside the cleaning tank 71 of the head mounting unit 3.
- the space inside the cleaning tank 71 is configured to communicate with the collection container 4 installed at the lower part.
- the collection container 4 is provided in the cleaning tank 71 for storing the solvent after cleaning with the cleaning liquid (solvent) ejected from the grounded cleaning nozzle 72.
- a float 74 is provided in the collection container 4 in order to detect the liquid level of the solvent after cleaning.
- the magnetic sensor A76 detects the liquid level, and the control unit (not shown in FIG. 2) indicates that the cleaning liquid in the collection container 4 has reached the predetermined liquid level. Output to.
- the air supply path (path 841) of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment will be described.
- the main body 1 is provided with a pump (for drying) 60 used for sucking and pumping air, and the pump (for drying) 60 has an air suction port communicating with the inside of the main body 1. Is forming.
- the pump (for drying) 60 is connected to an air supply nozzle 73 provided inside the cleaning tank 71 of the head mounting unit 3 via a path 841 passing through the cable (for the head mounting unit) 6.
- the cleaning tank 71 provided in the head mounting unit 3 is used for sucking and pumping air provided in the main body 1 via a path 843 passing through the cable (for the head mounting unit) 6. It is connected to an air pump (for suction) 61.
- the pump (for suction) 61 is connected to an exhaust duct connection portion 62 that communicates with the outside of the main body 1.
- FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a control unit 7 and a printing mechanism unit (main body 1 and printing head 2) of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment.
- 301 is a microprocessing unit (hereinafter referred to as MPU) which is a control unit that controls the entire inkjet recording apparatus 600.
- MPU microprocessing unit
- Reference numeral 302 denotes a bus line, which has a function of transmitting data, control signals, and the like between the devices constituting the control unit.
- the bus line 302 is used to input data and detection signals required by the calculation committee of the MPU 301 from each device and transmit the data signal, address signal, and control signal to each device.
- Reference numeral 306 is a read-only memory (ROM) for storing the control program and data necessary for the MPU 301 to operate.
- Reference numeral 307 is a rewritable memory (RAM) for temporarily storing data required by the MPU 301 during program execution.
- Reference numeral 8 is an operation display unit for inputting print contents, set values, and the like, and displaying the input data, print contents, and the like.
- the operation display unit 8 uses a touch input type display panel in which a transparent touch switch is superimposed on the surface of the liquid crystal display screen.
- the head mounting unit 3 can be controlled from the operation display unit of the control unit 7, but the operation unit (start button 18 and stop button 19) performs the operation operation related to the head mounting unit 3 on the operation display unit 8. It is used when operating near the head mounting unit 3. Then, the display unit 20 is used when the operation state confirmation, the abnormality message, etc. regarding the head mounting unit 3 are confirmed not near the operation display unit 8 but near the head mounting unit 3.
- the print head 2 of the inkjet recording device 600 includes a nozzle 21 that atomizes and ejects the ink 68A pressurized and supplied from the ink container 31.
- the nozzle 21 ejects ink in a columnar shape, the tip of the nozzle is separated, and the ink particles 68B are ejected.
- the print head 2 is provided with a charging electrode 23 so as to surround the ink particles 68B, and charges the ink particles 68B according to the print content.
- the print head 2 deflects the ink particles 68B charged by the charging electrode 23 and flies according to the amount of charge, and flies toward the object to be printed (not shown). Then, printing is executed by the flying ink particles landing on the object to be printed.
- the deflection electrode 24 of the print head 2 is composed of a ground electrode 24B and a positive electrode 24A. Further, the print head 2 is charged with the gutter 25 that captures the ink particles 68B (unused ink) that were not used for printing, and the ink particles 68B1 that are slightly charged in the ink particles 68B captured by the gutter 25. It includes a charge sensor 48 that generates a phase detection signal according to the amount.
- a pump (for recovery) 35 that collects the ink (ink particles) captured by the gutter 25 in the ink container 31 and an ink recovery path 811 to 812 connecting the gutter 25 and the ink container 31 are provided. I have.
- control unit 7 generates an excitation voltage that excites the electric strain element 22 (not shown) built in the nozzle 21 in order to give regularity to the timing of separating the ink pillars ejected from the nozzle 21 into the ink particles 68B. It has a circuit 331.
- control unit 7 has a charging signal generation circuit 342 for printing and a charging signal generation circuit 341 for phase search, and is a D / A that converts a charging signal in the form of a digital signal output from them into a voltage signal in the form of an analog. It has a converter 343 and an amplifier circuit 344 that amplifies a voltage signal in the form of an analog signal output from the D / A converter 343 and generates a charging voltage to be applied to the charging electrode 23.
- the inkjet recording device 600 includes a deflection voltage generation circuit 332 that generates a deflection voltage applied to the deflection electrode 24.
- the inkjet recording device 600 includes an amplifier circuit 353 that amplifies the phase detection signal in the form of an analog signal output from the charge sensor 48, a phase determination circuit 351 that inputs the amplified phase detection signal and determines whether charging is good or bad.
- An A / D converter 352 that inputs an amplified phase detection signal and performs A / D conversion is provided.
- the pressure of the ink supplied to the liquid level detection circuit 313 for managing the liquid level of the ink container 31 and the nozzle 21 via the bus line 302 is an appropriate value.
- a pressure detection circuit 312 for detecting whether or not the viscosity, a viscosity measuring circuit 311 for measuring whether or not the viscosity of the ink 68A supplied to the nozzle 21 is appropriate for printing with the viscosity measuring instrument 45, an ink 68A and a solvent 69A are used.
- the collection container sensor detection circuit 322 for detecting that the number has not increased by using the magnetic sensor A76 and the magnet A75, and the magnetic sensor B84 and the magnet B86 that the print head 2 is mounted on the head mounting unit 3 are used.
- the control unit 7 can use a computer.
- the control unit 7 includes an MPU 301, a memory (306 and 307) for storing a program for the operation of the MPU 301, and data / information necessary for the operation, and a print head 2 and a head mounting unit according to the instruction of the MPU 301. 3. It can be composed of a drive unit for operating the constituent devices in the main body 1. Here, a detailed description of the control unit 7 will be omitted.
- FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of the head mounting unit 3 (a cross-sectional view of the cleaning nozzle 72).
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the head-mounted unit 3 showing a state in which the collection container is removed.
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a head mounting unit showing a state in which a print head is mounted.
- the head mounting unit 3 has a cleaning tank 71 in which the print head 2 is housed during head cleaning, and a head mounting unit installed above the cleaning tank 71 for setting the print head 2 in the head mounting unit 3.
- a cleaning block 81 including a head insertion portion 81B which is an entrance when the 81A and the print head 2 are inserted into the cleaning tank 71, and a collection container 4 for storing the liquid 70A used for the head cleaning process are provided. There is.
- the lid member 83 is assembled.
- the lid member 83 is assembled to the cleaning block 81 via the lid hinge 82.
- the lid member 83 is assembled with a magnet B86 used when detecting that the print head 2 is set in the head mounting unit 3.
- the cleaning block 81 is equipped with a magnetic sensor B84 for detecting that the magnet B86 approaches within a certain distance when the print head 2 is set in the head mounting unit 3.
- a magnet C87 used when detecting that the print head 2 is set in the head mounting unit 3 is attached to the cleaning block 81.
- the cleaning block 81 is sprayed with a cleaning nozzle 72 for discharging the solvent 69A for cleaning the head toward the print head 2 and air for drying the print head 2 wet with the solvent 69A after cleaning the head.
- a supply nozzle 73 having an air discharge port for this purpose is assembled by press-fitting.
- the cleaning nozzle 72 has a liquid discharge hole A portion 72A for ejecting the solvent 69A so as to aim at the nozzle 21 assembled to the print head 2, and a liquid discharge for ejecting the solvent 69A so as to aim at the deflection electrode 24.
- the hole B portion 72B is formed.
- the cleaning nozzle 72 is connected to the flow path B portion 81E formed in the cleaning block 81.
- the air supply nozzle 73 forms an air discharge hole 73A for ejecting air so as to aim between the electrodes of the charging electrode 23 assembled to the print head 2.
- the air supply nozzle 73 is connected to the flow path C portion 81F formed in the cleaning block 81.
- the cleaning block 81 forms a hole 81C communicating with the inside of the cleaning tank 71 into which the print head 2 is inserted at the time of head cleaning, and a flow path A 81D connected to the hole 81C.
- the head mounting unit 3 is provided with a cleaning tank 71 for accommodating the print head 2 at the time of head cleaning at the lower part of the cleaning block 81.
- the cleaning tank 71 forms a side wall portion formed so that the solvent 69A ejected from the cleaning nozzle 72 does not scatter to the surroundings, and a mounting portion 71A used when mounting the recovery container 4.
- a temperature sensor B80 for detecting the ambient temperature of the head mounting unit 3 and using it for various controls is assembled.
- the cleaning tank 71 is equipped with a magnetic sensor A76 for detecting that the collection container 4 is attached to the head mounting unit 3.
- the head mounting unit 3 is provided with a collection container 4 for accommodating the liquid 70A used at the time of head cleaning at the lower part of the cleaning tank 71.
- the recovery container 4 includes a container 77 for accommodating the liquid 70A, a partition 78 attached to reduce the scattering of the liquid 70A when carrying the recovery container 4, a float 74 to which a magnet A75 is attached, and a float 74. It is composed of a holder 79 that suppresses movement.
- the container 77 forms a liquid storage portion 77B for accommodating the liquid 70A used for the head cleaning treatment, a mounting portion 77A used for fixing to the cleaning tank 71, and an internal screw portion 77C for mounting the partition 78. ing.
- the partition 78 is provided to have a liquid inflow hole 78A provided for allowing the liquid 70A dripping from the cleaning tank 71 to flow into the container 77, and for causing the liquid 70A to flow out from the container 77 when the recovery container 4 is tilted. It forms the liquid outflow hole 78B.
- a liquid joint 89 connected to the flow path B portion 81E is assembled to the cleaning block 81, and a tube 837A is connected to the liquid joint 89 by a method such as press fitting.
- the tube 837A forms a part of the head cleaning path 837, and is connected to the solvent container 33 in the main body 1 via the tube 837A.
- an air joint 90 connected to the flow path C portion 81F is assembled to the cleaning block 81, and a tube 841A is connected to the air joint 90 by a method such as press fitting.
- the tube 841A forms a part of the path (for air supply) 841 and is connected to the pump (for drying) 60 via the tube 841A.
- a suction joint 88 connected to the flow path A portion 81D is assembled to the cleaning block 81, and a tube 843A is connected to the suction joint 88 by a method such as press fitting.
- the tube 841A forms a part of the path (for air suction) 841 and is connected to the pump (for suction) 61 via the tube 841A.
- the suction joint 88 is formed by connecting the joint A portion 88B and the joint B portion 88C, and forms a chamber 88A between the joint A portion 88B and the joint B portion 88C.
- the head mounting unit 3 is covered with a cover 85 so that the tube 837A, the tube 841A, and the tube 843A are not exposed to the outside of the head mounting unit 3, and the cover 85 is the upper part of the cleaning block 81 and the cleaning tank. It is fixed so as to sandwich the lower part of 71.
- the cable (for the head mounting unit) 6 is assembled to the lower part of the cover 85 so as not to protrude to the outside and interfere with other production equipment.
- the electric wire 76A connected to the magnetic sensor A76, the electric wire 84A connected to the magnetic sensor B84, and the temperature sensor An electric wire connected to the B80, a harness (not shown) for operating the start button 18, the stop button 19, and the display unit 20 pass through, and the head mounting unit 3 and the main body 1 are connected. ..
- the collection container 4 is rotated by about 90 ° in a state where the head mounting unit 3 is fixed, so that the mounting portion 71A of the head mounting unit 3 and the mounting portion of the collection container 4 that is aligned with the mounting portion 71A are used.
- the 77A is in a detached state, and the collection container 4 can be separated from the head mounting unit 3.
- the magnet A75 assembled inside the float 74 and the magnetic sensor A76 assembled in the cleaning tank 71 are separated by a certain distance (distance at which the magnetic sensor A76 does not recognize the magnet A75) or more.
- This state is transmitted to the control unit 7 via the electric wire 76A. Therefore, the control unit 7 can recognize that the collection container 4 has been removed from the head mounting unit 3.
- the lid member 83 of the head mounting unit 3 is opened by inserting the print head 2 from which the protective cover 17 is removed into the head insertion portion 81B.
- the print head 2 is in a state where the nozzle 21, the charging electrode 23, the deflection electrode 24, and the gutter 25 are pushed to a position where they come into the space surrounded by the cleaning tank 71 and the cleaning block 81.
- the print head 2 of this embodiment is assembled with a magnetic sensor C28 and a temperature sensor A27.
- the electric wire 28A connected to the porcelain sensor C28 and the electric wire 27A connected to the temperature sensor A27 are connected to the control unit 7 installed in the main body 1 through the inside of the cable (for the print head) 5.
- the lid member 83 When the print head 2 is mounted on the head mounting unit 3, the lid member 83 is opened by the print head 2, and the magnet B86 attached to the lid member 83 also moves in conjunction with the magnet B86, and the dotted circle M2 As shown by surroundings, the magnet B86 and the magnetic sensor B84 approach each other within a certain distance. As a result, the head mounting unit 3 can recognize that the print head 2 is mounted on the head mounting unit 3. Furthermore, when the print head 2 is mounted on the head mounting unit 3, the magnet C87 mounted on the cleaning block 81 and the magnetic sensor mounted on the print head 2 are shown by being surrounded by a dotted circle M3.
- the magnet A75 attached to the float 74 of the recovery container 4 and the cleaning tank 71 of the head mounting unit are shown by being surrounded by a dotted circle M1.
- the magnetic sensor A76 attached to is approached within a certain distance. This state is detected by the magnetic sensor A76, and the control unit 7 can recognize that the collection container 4 is mounted on the head mounting unit 3. By this detection, it is possible to prevent erroneous work such as starting the head cleaning process without attaching the collection container 4.
- ⁇ Head cleaning / drying treatment> 7 to 11 are used for the operation when the head cleaning process and the head drying process are executed in the state where the print head 2 is set in the head mounting unit 3 in the inkjet recording apparatus 600 according to the first embodiment. I will explain.
- FIG. 7 is a fluid path diagram showing the flow of liquid and the flow of gas in the entire apparatus when the head cleaning process is being performed by thick lines (A1 to A8).
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the head mounting unit showing the flow of liquid and the flow of gas inside the head mounting unit 3 when the head cleaning process is being performed by thick lines (A1 to A7).
- the inkjet recording device 600 is in a state in which the print head 2 is set (mounted) on the head mounting unit 3 for cleaning the print head.
- the solenoid valve (for head cleaning) 56 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for solvent) 37 is operated, which is indicated by the thick line of arrow A1.
- the solvent which is the cleaning liquid is supplied to the head mounting unit 3. That is, the solvent 69A contained in the solvent container 33 of the main body 1 can be supplied to the cleaning nozzle 72 assembled in the cleaning tank 71 of the head mounting unit 3.
- the cleaning nozzle 72 ejects (discharges) this solvent 69A toward the print head to clean the print head 2.
- the solvent 69A supplied to the cleaning nozzle 72 is from arrow A2 (direction in which the solvent 69A is ejected from the liquid discharge hole A portion 72A toward the nozzle 21) and arrow A3 (liquid discharge hole B portion 72B).
- the solvent 69A is ejected in the direction indicated by (direction in which the solvent 69A is ejected aiming at the deflection electrode 24), and the solvent 69A is sprayed on the components such as the nozzle 21 and the deflection electrode 24 assembled to the print head 2 to record ink.
- the solvent 69A that has washed the components such as the nozzle 21 and the deflection electrode 24 assembled to the print head 2 drips downward due to gravity and flows.
- the charging electrode 23 and the gutter 25 arranged below the deflection electrode 24 can be washed with the solvent 69A.
- the solvent 69A that has washed the components such as the nozzle 21, the charging electrode 23, the deflection electrode 24, and the gutter 25 arranged on the print head 2 drips in the direction indicated by the arrow A4. It flows into the collection container 4 installed at the lower part of the head mounting unit 3 and is stored as the liquid 70A in the liquid storage unit 77B.
- the solenoid valve (for circulation) 59 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for circulation) 36 is operated, as shown by the thick line of arrow A5.
- a part of the solvent 69A that hits the nozzle 21 is sucked from the nozzle 21 and collected in the ink container 31 of the main body 1.
- the inside of the nozzle 21 and the ink circulation paths 821 to 822 can also be cleaned with the solvent 69A.
- the solenoid valve (for recovery) 50 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for recovery) 35 is operated, which is indicated by the thick line of arrow A6.
- the pump (for recovery) 35 is operated, which is indicated by the thick line of arrow A6.
- a part of the solvent 69A that hits the gutter 25 is sucked from the gutter 25 and collected in the ink container 31 of the main body 1.
- the inside of the gutter 25 and the ink recovery paths 811 to 812 can also be cleaned with the solvent 69A.
- the surrounding air is sucked together with the solvent 69A.
- the vaporized solvent 69A dissolves in the ink circulation paths 821 to 822 and the ink recovery paths 811 to 812 to become solvent vapor.
- the solvent vapor is discharged to the exhaust duct connection portion 62 communicating with the outside of the main body 1 via the path 814.
- the solvent vapor generated in the cleaning tank 71 of the head mounting unit 3 is discharged to the hole 81C as shown by the thick line of the arrow A7. It is sucked from the main body 1 and discharged to the exhaust duct connection portion 62 communicating with the outside of the main body 1.
- the solvent vapor discharged from the ink container 31 and the solvent vapor discharged from the head mounting unit 3 are collectively discharged from the exhaust duct connection portion 62.
- the exhaust duct connection portion 62 is located at a location away from the operation display unit 8 of the main body 1, and is assembled to, for example, the back surface or the bottom surface of the main body 1.
- a part of the solvent 69A ejected from the cleaning nozzle 72 may flow into the flow path A portion 81D from the hole portion 81C. Therefore, a chamber 88A is provided in the air suction path (see FIG. 4), and the solvent 69A flowing into the flow path A portion 81D is trapped so as not to flow toward the pump (for suction) 61. ..
- the solvent 69A trapped in the chamber 88A is dried at the stage of the head drying treatment so that the solvent 69A does not remain in the chamber 88A after the head drying treatment is completed.
- FIG. 9 is a fluid path diagram showing the gas flow of the entire apparatus when the head drying process is being performed by thick lines (B1 to B6).
- FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the head mounting unit showing the flow of liquid and the flow of gas inside the head mounting unit 3 when the head drying process is being performed by thick lines (B1 to B5).
- the print head 2 is set (mounted) on the head mounting unit 3, and after the head cleaning process is completed, the head drying process is performed.
- the air supply path 841 by operating the pump (for drying) 60 installed in the main body 1, compressed air is assembled in the cleaning tank 71 of the head mounting unit 3 as shown by the thick line of the arrow B1. It is supplied to the air supply nozzle 73.
- the air supplied to the air supply nozzle 73 is discharged toward the charging electrode 23 of the print head 2 as shown by the arrow B2. Since the gap between the electrodes of the charging electrode 23 is narrower than the gap of the deflection electrode 24 and it is difficult to dry, the air discharge hole 73A formed in the air supply nozzle 73 is used for aiming.
- the air discharged from the air supply nozzle 73 dries components such as the nozzle 21, the charging electrode 23, the deflection electrode 24, and the gutter 25 assembled inside the print head 2.
- the solenoid valve (for recovery) 50 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for recovery) 35 is operated to operate the pump (for recovery) 35, as shown by the thick line of the arrow B5. A part of it is sucked from the gutter 25 and sucked and pumped to the ink container 31 of the main body 1.
- the solenoid valve (for circulation) 59 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for circulation) 36 is operated, as shown by the thick line of the arrow B4. A part of the air is sucked from the nozzle 21 and sucked and pumped to the ink container 31 of the main body 1.
- the air flowing into the ink container 31 is discharged to the outside of the main body 1 from the exhaust path 805 as shown by the thick line of the arrow P.
- the air flowing into the ink container 31 is discharged to the outside of the main body 1 from the exhaust path 805 as shown by the thick line of the arrow P.
- the solvent vapor generated in the cleaning tank 71 of the head mounting unit 3 is discharged to the hole 81C as shown by the thick line of the arrow B3. It is sucked from the main body 1 and discharged to the exhaust duct connection portion 62 communicating with the outside of the main body 1.
- the solvent vapor discharged from the ink container 31 and the solvent vapor discharged from the head mounting unit 3 are collectively discharged from the exhaust duct connection portion 62.
- the air flow rate at which the solvent vapor inside the cleaning tank 71 is sucked from the hole 81C by the pump (for suction) 61 is larger than the air flow rate supplied from the air supply nozzle 73 inside the cleaning tank 71 by the pump (for drying) 60. If the amount is large, the solvent vapor discharged from the head mounting unit 3 can be significantly reduced. Furthermore, when the flow rate of air sucked from the hole 81C is large, the nozzle 21, the charging electrode 23, the deflection electrode 24, etc., which are assembled inside the print head 2 are generated by generating an air flow inside the cleaning tank 71. The effect of shortening the drying time of components such as the gutter 25 can be expected.
- FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a head mounting unit showing a state in which a large amount of cleaning liquid is contained in the collection container of Example 1.
- the control unit 7 can detect (determine) that the amount of the liquid 70 that can be further stored in the collection container 4 is small and almost full.
- the control unit 7 displays a warning on the operation display unit 8. For example, the collection container 4 may be removed to indicate that the liquid 70 in the collection container 4 should be discharged.
- the warning is displayed only on the operation display unit 8, the operator may be notified by the display unit 20 of the head mounting unit 3, a buzzer, or a voice.
- the display unit 20 of the head mounting unit 3 a buzzer, or a voice.
- the control unit 7 can receive the liquid level detection signal from the porcelain sensor A76 and determine that the collection container 4 is attached. Based on this determination, the control unit 7 erases the warning display displayed on the operation display unit 8. Alternatively, it is possible to display that the head mounting unit 3 is in an operable state (cleanable), release the prohibited state of the head cleaning operation, and control the head cleaning to be permitted.
- the amount of the liquid 70 in the recovery container 4 "small amount cleaning: 6 ml”, “standard cleaning: 12 ml”, “careful cleaning: careful cleaning:” depending on the head cleaning mode without providing a physical sensor (magnetic sensor A76, etc.).
- the amount of solvent used is determined as in “24 ml”
- the amount of liquid 70 in the recovery container 4 is estimated by the control unit 7 at the timing when the head cleaning is performed, and the head cleaning operation is restricted at the required timing. You may receive it or instruct the waste liquid from the collection container 4.
- ⁇ Head cleaning mode setting screen> The head cleaning-related setting screen of the inkjet recording apparatus 600 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
- the screen of FIG. 12 is displayed on the operation display unit 8.
- the head drying time setting field of the head cleaning related setting screen select either "(e) Automatic or (f) Manual setting” in the (2) Head drying time setting field of the head cleaning related setting screen.
- the head drying time is set to a predetermined time based on the type of the solvent 69A and the values detected by the temperature sensor A27 and the temperature sensor B80.
- the head drying time can be set between 0 and 10 minutes.
- FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the head cleaning process according to the first embodiment.
- step S101 the start button for performing the head cleaning process displayed on the touch panel type operation display unit 8 is pressed.
- the start button 18 provided on the head mounting unit 3 is pressed.
- the inkjet recording device 600 has stopped ink ejection from the nozzle 21 of the print head 2, and has a pump (for supply) 34 and a solenoid valve (for supply). ) No power is supplied to the ink circulation system parts such as 49, and the ink circulation system parts are not in operation.
- step S111 it is confirmed whether or not the magnetic sensor A76 of the head mounting unit 3 is in the “ON” state (detecting the magnet A75 of the collection container 4).
- step S112 if the magnetic sensor A76 is in the “ON” state in the confirmation result of step S111, it is determined as “YES” (the collection container 4 is set (mounted) in the head mounting unit 3). The process proceeds to step S121. If the confirmation result in step S111 shows that the magnetic sensor A76 is in the "OFF” state, "NO” in step S112 (the collection container 4 is not set (mounted) in the head mounting unit 3 or is inside the recovery container 4). It is determined that the liquid 70A is accumulated in the float 74 and the float 74 is in a floating state), and the process proceeds to step S113.
- step 113 "Drain the liquid 70A in the collection container 4 and empty it. Empty the collection container 4 to the head mounting unit" on the operation display unit 8 of the main body 1 or the display unit 20 of the head mounting unit 3. Display the contents such as "Please set”.
- step S114 the operator sets the empty collection container 4 in the head mounting unit 3. After that, the operator presses the operation display unit 8 of the main body 1 or the start button 18 of the head mounting unit 3 to execute the process of step S111 again.
- step S121 it is confirmed whether the magnetic sensor B84 of the head mounting unit 3 is in the “ON” state (detecting the magnet B86 attached to the lid member 83), and the magnetic sensor C28 of the print head 2 is used. It is confirmed whether or not it is in the "ON” state (detecting the magnet C87 attached to the cleaning block 81).
- step S122 if the confirmation result of step S121 shows that the magnetic sensor B84 is in the “ON” state and the magnetic sensor C28 is in the “ON” state, “YES” (the print head 2 is set in the head mounting unit 3 (print head 2 is set in the head mounting unit 3). It is determined that the device has been installed), and the process proceeds to step S131. If either the magnetic sensor B84 or the magnetic sensor C28 is in the "OFF” state in the confirmation result of step S121, it is determined as "NO” (the print head 2 is not set (mounted) in the head mounting unit 3). Then, the process proceeds to step S123.
- step 123 the operation display unit 8 of the main body 1 or the display unit 20 of the head mounting unit 3 is displayed with a content such as "Please set the print head in the head mounting unit".
- step S124 the operator sets the print head 2 in the head mounting unit 3. After that, the operator presses the operation display unit 8 of the main body 1 or the start button 18 of the head mounting unit 3 to execute the process of step S121 again.
- step S131 if the content preset in the (1) head cleaning mode selection field of the head cleaning related setting screen shown in FIG. 12 is "(a) small amount cleaning", the process proceeds to step S132 and "(b). ) If it is “standard cleaning”, the process proceeds to step S133, and if it is "(c) careful cleaning", the process proceeds to step S134.
- Steps S132 to S134 are head cleaning steps, and the head cleaning process (head) determined by each head cleaning mode "(a) small amount cleaning, (b) standard cleaning, (c) careful cleaning, (d) automatic selection”.
- the solvent 69B is ejected from the cleaning nozzle 72 of the mounting unit 3 to clean the print head 2). Then, if completed, the process proceeds to step S141 in any case.
- step S141 if the content preset in the (2) head drying time setting field of the head cleaning related setting screen shown in FIG. 12 is "(e) automatic", the process proceeds to step S142 and "(f) If it is "manual setting”, the process proceeds to step S143.
- Step S142 is a head drying step, and is a head drying process (air supply nozzle 73 of the head mounting unit 3) in a predetermined time based on the type of the solvent 69A and the values detected by the temperature sensor A27 and the temperature sensor B80. Air is ejected from the cleaning tank 71, and solvent vapor is sucked from the hole 81C in the cleaning tank 71 to dry the print head 2).
- Step S143 is a head drying step, and is a head drying process (air supply nozzle 73 of the head mounting unit 3) during the head drying time (set between 0 and 10 minutes) input in "(f) Manual setting". Air is ejected from the cleaning tank 71, and solvent vapor is sucked from the hole 81C in the cleaning tank 71 to dry the print head 2).
- step S151 if the content preset in the automatic power off after the processing of the head cleaning related setting screen shown in FIG. 12 is "do not (g)", the process proceeds to step S152 and "(h)" is performed. If there is, the process proceeds to step S153.
- step S152 the ink jet recording device 600 has stopped ejecting ink from the nozzle 21 of the print head 2, and power is supplied to ink circulation system components such as a pump (for supply) 34 and a solenoid valve (for supply) 49. It is not in operation and is not in operation. In this state, the head cleaning operation flow is terminated.
- ink circulation system components such as a pump (for supply) 34 and a solenoid valve (for supply) 49. It is not in operation and is not in operation. In this state, the head cleaning operation flow is terminated.
- step S153 after the head drying step is completed, the power of the inkjet recording device 600 is turned off to end the head cleaning operation flow.
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Also in the second embodiment, the same configuration as in FIGS. 1 to 11 described in the first embodiment is adopted. Further, the cleaning and drying state detection method in Example 2 is shown in FIG. 14, and the operation flow in Example 2 is shown in FIG. Since the description of FIGS. 1 to 11 has already been described, the description thereof will be omitted. Then, the parts different from those of the first embodiment will be mainly described with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15.
- a small amount (for example, for example) is used from the cleaning nozzle 72 by the method described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 of the first embodiment.
- a solvent 69A (1 to 5 ml) is ejected to wet the parts (nozzle 21, charging electrode 23, deflection electrode 24, gutter 25, etc.) assembled to the print head 2.
- a voltage (for example, 1 to 7 kV) is applied to the deflection electrode 24 by using the deflection voltage generation circuit 332.
- the solvent 69A used in the inkjet recording device 600 is a non-conductive liquid, but the ink 68A is made into a conductive liquid by mixing a conductive substance with the material.
- the ink 68A adhering to the print head 2 is non-conductive in a dry state, but becomes a conductive liquid when wet with the solvent 69A. Therefore, if the print head 2 is dirty with the ink 68A, wet with the solvent 69A, and a current flows by applying a voltage to the deflection electrode 24, the charge sensor 48 attached to the print head 2 detects it. It will be possible.
- FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the voltage detected by the charge sensor 48, the horizontal axis shows the designated elapsed time (phase), and the vertical axis shows the magnitude of the detected voltage.
- Whether or not the print head 2 can be contaminated with the ink 68A is determined by how many inks exceed the threshold level SH in the specified elapsed time. In this embodiment, it is determined that there is no dirt when the number of those exceeding the threshold level SH in the specified elapsed time is 0 (in the case of (a) of FIG. 14). If there is one or more (as in (b) of FIG. 14), it is determined that there is dirt. If it is determined that there is dirt, additional head cleaning (solvent 69 is ejected from the cleaning nozzle 72) is executed. When there are no inks that exceed the threshold level SH in the specified elapsed time, it is determined that the amount of ink 68A adhering to the print head 2 is small and acceptable, and additional head cleaning is not executed.
- air is blown from the air supply nozzle 73 by the method described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10 of the first embodiment in a state where the print head 2 is set (mounted) on the head mounting unit 3.
- the solvent 69A adhering to the parts (nozzle 21, charging electrode 23, deflection electrode 24, gutter 25, etc.) assembled to the print head 2 is dried by ejecting. If the humidity around the head mounting unit 3 is high when the solvent 69A is dried, water droplets may adhere to the print head 2 due to the heat of vaporization of the solvent 69A.
- a voltage (for example, 1 to 7 kV) is applied to the deflection electrode 24 by using the deflection voltage generation circuit 332 in a state where the print head 2 is wet. If a current flows by applying a voltage to the deflection electrode 24, it can be detected by the charge sensor 48 attached to the print head 2.
- the determination of the dry state of the print head 2 is performed by using the charge sensor 48 in the same manner as the determination of the ink stain state, and the details thereof will be described with reference to FIG. Whether or not the dry state of the print head 2 is acceptable is determined by how many print heads 2 exceed the threshold level SH in the specified elapsed time. In this embodiment, when one or more of the particles exceed the threshold level SH in the specified elapsed time (state of (b) in FIG. 14), it is determined that the drying is insufficient and the head is additionally dried (head mounting unit). Air is ejected from the air supply nozzle 73 of No. 3 and solvent vapor is sucked from the hole 81C in the cleaning tank 71 to dry the print head 2).
- FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the head cleaning process according to the second embodiment.
- step S201, steps S211 to S214, and steps S221 to S224 are the same as “steps S101, steps S111 to S114, and steps S121 to S124” described in FIG. 13 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of "step S201, steps S211 to S214, steps S221 to S224" will be omitted.
- Step S231 is a head cleaning step, and is operated when "(d) automatic selection" is set in the (1) head cleaning mode selection field of the head cleaning related setting screen shown in FIG.
- a small amount (for example, 5 to 10 ml) of solvent 69A is ejected from the cleaning nozzle 72 to clean the print head 2 (head cleaning process).
- step S232 a voltage is applied to the deflection electrode 24, and it is confirmed whether or not the charge sensor 48 detects a voltage exceeding the threshold level SH.
- the case where the threshold level SH is exceeded is determined as "1", and the case where the threshold level SH is not exceeded is determined as "0".
- step S233 if the number of times the product determined to be "1" is 0 within a certain period of time after being binarized in step S232, it is determined that the ink stain on the print head 2 can be removed to an allowable value. , Step S241. If the number of items determined to be "1" is one or more, it is determined that the ink stains on the print head 2 have not been removed to an allowable value, and step S231 is executed again.
- Step S241 is a head drying step, and is operated when "(d) automatic" is set in the (2) head drying time setting field of the head cleaning related setting screen shown in FIG.
- the head drying process air is blown from the air supply nozzle 73 of the head mounting unit 3 in a predetermined time based on the type of the solvent 69A and the values detected by the temperature sensor A27 and the temperature sensor B80.
- the ejection and the solvent vapor are sucked from the hole 81C in the cleaning tank 71 to dry the print head 2).
- step S242 a voltage is applied to the deflection electrode 24, and it is confirmed whether or not the charge sensor 48 detects a voltage exceeding the threshold level SH.
- the case where the threshold level SH is exceeded is determined as "1", and the case where the threshold level SH is not exceeded is determined as "0".
- step S243 if the number of times the print head 2 is binarized in step S242 and is determined to be "1" is 0 times, it is determined that the print head 2 has been dried to an allowable value, and the step is taken. Proceed to S251. If the number of items determined to be "1" is one or more, it is determined that the print head 2 has not dried to an allowable value, and step S241 is executed again. In step S241 again, for example, air is continuously ejected from the air supply nozzle 73 with a deflection voltage applied, and when there are no more objects determined to be "1" within a predetermined time, step S251 You may proceed to.
- step S251 to S253 are the same as “steps S151 to S153” described with reference to FIG. 13 of the first embodiment, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600 by setting the print head 2 in the head mounting unit 3, the ink 68A of the print head 2 is less contaminated with the solvent 69A. It is possible to provide an inkjet recording apparatus 600 capable of automatically determining the amount of use and performing head cleaning until it is automatically determined that the ink stain on the print head 2 has been removed.
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600 automatically determines the dry state of the print head 2 in a state where the print head 2 is set in the head mounting unit, and automatically dries the print head 2. It is possible to provide an inkjet recording apparatus 600 capable of performing head drying until it is determined that the printing has been performed.
- Example 3
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600 according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Also in the second embodiment, the same configuration as in FIGS. 1 to 11 described in the first embodiment is adopted. Therefore, the description of FIGS. 1 to 11 will be omitted. Hereinafter, the operation flow of the third embodiment will be mainly described.
- FIG. 16 is a flowchart of the operation stop processing in the third embodiment.
- step S301 the start button for performing the operation stop process displayed on the touch panel type operation display unit 8 is pressed.
- the start button 18 provided on the head mounting unit 3 is pressed.
- the inkjet recording device 600 is supplied with power to ink circulation system parts such as a pump (for supply) 34 and a solenoid valve (for supply) 49.
- the ink is ejected from the nozzle 21 of the print head 2.
- steps S311 to S314 and steps S321 to S324 are the same as “steps S101, steps S111 to S114, and steps S121 to S124” described in FIG. 13 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of "steps S311 to S314, steps S321 to S324" will be omitted.
- Step S331 is an ink ejection stop step, and performs a process of stopping the ejection of ink 68A from the nozzle 21 of the print head 2.
- Step S332 is a nozzle cleaning step, in which the solvent 69A is supplied to the nozzle 21 of the print head 2 via the switching valve 26, and cleaning is performed from the inside of the nozzle 21.
- step S333 to S335 and steps S341 to S343 are the same operations as “steps S231 to S233 and steps S241 to S243” described in FIG. 15 of the second embodiment. Therefore, the description of “steps S333 to S335 and steps S341 to S343" will be omitted.
- step S351 to S353 have the same operation as “steps S151 to S153” described with reference to FIG. 13 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of “steps S351 to S353" will be omitted.
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600 sets the print head 2 in the head mounting unit 3 while the inkjet recording apparatus 600 is in operation (ink 68A is ejected from the nozzle 21). By doing so, ink ejection stop processing (processing to stop the ejection of ink 68A from the nozzle 21), nozzle cleaning processing (processing to eject solvent 69A from the nozzle 21 to clean the inside of the path), and head cleaning processing (cleaning nozzle). It is possible to provide an inkjet recording apparatus 600 capable of automatically performing a series of steps (a process of ejecting a solvent 69A from 72 to clean the print head 2 from the outside).
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Also in this Example 4, the same configuration as in FIGS. 1 to 11 described in the first embodiment is adopted. Therefore, the description of FIGS. 1 to 11 will be omitted.
- the fourth embodiment will be described mainly with reference to FIGS. 17 to 20.
- FIG. 17 is a time chart showing the phase relationship between the excitation signal and the charging voltage for phase search.
- (a) is an excitation signal as a reference for particle formation as an example of detecting the charging voltage application timing.
- (B) is an enlarged view of one cycle of the excitation signal.
- (C) is a charging waveform in each phase when one cycle of the excitation signal is divided into eight and a charging signal for half a cycle starting from each phase is applied.
- the charge phase is shifted with respect to the excitation signal which is the reference for particle formation in the non-printing state (printing-print interval, etc.).
- a charging voltage that does not jump over the gutter 25 is applied to the ink particles 68B1 to detect a minute charge amount of the charge 68B2 in each phase. That is, the phase search is performed by generating a charging voltage for phase search.
- the phase search charging signal generation circuit 341 In order to generate the phase search charging voltage for the phase search, the phase search charging signal generation circuit 341 (see FIG. 3) generates a plurality of types of phase search charging voltages having different phases with respect to the excitation voltage. To generate a charging signal.
- the charging voltage for phase search is set to a size such that the ink particles 68B1 charged by this charging voltage have a deflection amount that does not jump over the gutter 25 (captured by the gutter 25), and the ink particles 68B1 charged by this charging voltage.
- the phase detection signal output from the charge sensor 48 is input to the phase determination circuit 351 and the A / D converter 352 via the amplifier circuit 353 according to the charge amount of the minute charge charge 68B2.
- the waveform of the phase detection signal output from the amplifier circuit 353 changes, for example, as shown in FIGS. 18A to 18C.
- the waveform of the phase detection signal changes as shown in FIG. 18 (a) with the change of the generated phase of the charging voltage for phase search.
- the phase determination circuit 351 inputs such a phase detection signal, binarizes the input phase detection signal of each phase with the threshold level SH, and “1” indicates that the phase exceeds the threshold level SH. Those that do not exceed are determined as "0" and input to the MPU 301.
- the MPU 301 determines that the phase in which the binarized phase detection signal changes from “0" to "1” is the optimum phase for generating a charging voltage for charging the ink particles 68B, and that phase is used for subsequent printing.
- a printing charging signal is generated so as to generate a charging voltage.
- the waveform of the phase detection signal is in the state shown in (b) or (c) of FIG.
- FIG. 18 shows a state in which none of the items judged to be "1" exceeds the threshold level.
- the ink particles 68B ejected from the nozzle 21 may be displaced from the original flight direction and may not be collected by the gutter 25 and may be scattered (such a phenomenon is called beam bending).
- the charge sensor 48 cannot detect the charge signal of the ink particles 68B1, and the waveform of the phase detection signal as shown in FIG. 18B is obtained.
- FIG. 18 shows a state in which all (8) signals exceed the threshold level and are determined to be "1".
- the deflection voltage (1 to 7 kV) is applied to the deflection electrode 24 while the print head 2 is dirty with the ink 68A, the voltage leaks. Then, the charge sensor 48 detects a voltage different from that of the ink particles 68B1 as noise, resulting in a waveform of the phase detection signal as shown in FIG. 18 (c).
- Example 4 The ink ejection start setting screen in the head mounting unit 3 of the inkjet recording apparatus 600 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
- the screen of FIG. 19 is displayed by the operation display unit 8.
- "(e) Count setting" can be set in the range of 0 to 5 times. ..
- FIG. 20 is a flowchart of the operation start process in the fourth embodiment.
- step S401 the start button for performing the operation start (ink ejection start) process displayed on the operation display unit 8 is pressed.
- the start button 18 provided on the head mounting unit 3 is pressed.
- the inkjet recording device 600 has the ink ejection from the nozzle 21 of the print head 2 stopped, and the pump (for supply) 34 and the like. Power is not supplied to the ink circulation system parts such as the solenoid valve (for supply) 49, and the ink circulation system parts are not in operation.
- steps S411 to S414 and steps S421 to S424 are the same operations as “steps S111 to S114 and steps S121 to S124” described in FIG. 13 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of "steps S411 to S414, steps S421 to S424" will be omitted.
- step S431 if the content set in "(2) Ink ejection start time setting field" on the ink ejection start setting screen in the head mounting unit shown in FIG. 19 is "(c) Now", step S441 If "(d) Date and time reservation”, then the date and time for starting ink ejection is set, and the process proceeds to step S432.
- step S432 the inkjet recording device 600 is in a dormant state (ink ejection from the nozzle 21 of the print head 2 is stopped, and power is supplied to ink circulation system components such as the pump (for supply) 34 and the solenoid valve (for supply) 49. Is not supplied and is not in operation), and waits until the date and time set in step S431.
- step S433 it is confirmed whether or not the date and time set in step S431 has been reached, and if the reserved time has been set, it is determined as "YES” and the process proceeds to step S441. If the set reservation time has not been reached, "NO" is determined and step S432 is executed again.
- step S441 the content set in "(1) Ink ejection start method selection field in the head mounting unit" of the ink ejection start setting screen in the head mounting unit shown in FIG. 19 is "(a) Ink ejection”. If there is, the process proceeds to step S451, and if “(b) head cleaning + ink ejection”, the date and time for starting the next ink ejection is set and the process proceeds to step S442.
- step S442 "steps S231 to S233, steps S241 to S243" described with reference to FIG. 19 of the second embodiment are carried out.
- step S451 the ink particles 68B are started to be ejected from the nozzle 21.
- a charged charge for phase search is applied to the ink particles 68B, and the signal is detected by the charge sensor 48.
- a deflection voltage (1 to 7 kV) is applied to the deflection electrode 24.
- step S452 as described with reference to FIG. 18, the phase detection data is detected by the charge sensor 48, and the ones exceeding the threshold level SH are binarized as "1" and the ones not exceeding the threshold level SH are binarized to "0" for determination.
- Step S461 counts the number of binarized ones in step S452 that are determined to be "1" in one cycle (8 phases), and confirms whether "1" is one or more phases. If there is one phase or more, it is determined as “YES” (ink particles 68B have been captured by the gutter 25), and the process proceeds to step S481. If “1” is in 0 phase, it is determined as “NO” (ink particles 68B cannot be captured by the gutter 25), and the process proceeds to step S462.
- step S462 since the abnormality has been detected, the ink ejection from the nozzle 21 is stopped.
- step S463 the number of times (for example, twice) entered in "(e) Number of times setting" is confirmed in the (3) Number of retries column when an abnormality occurs on the ink ejection start setting screen in the head mounting unit shown in FIG. .. If the number of times the ink ejection is stopped in S462 is less than or equal to the number of times (for example, twice) input in "(e) Number of times setting", step S442 is executed again. Then, if the number of times the ink ejection is stopped in S462 is larger than the number of times (for example, twice) input in "(e) Number of times setting", the process proceeds to step S471.
- step S471 after the head cleaning process is executed, an abnormality confirmation message is sent to the operation display unit 8 of the main body 1 or the display unit 20 of the head mounting unit 3 in order to notify that the operation start (ink ejection start) process has failed. indicate.
- step S472 the ink jet recording device 600 has stopped ejecting ink from the nozzle 21 of the print head 2, and power is supplied to ink circulation system components such as a pump (for supply) 34 and a solenoid valve (for supply) 49. It is not running and waits in a non-operating state.
- ink circulation system components such as a pump (for supply) 34 and a solenoid valve (for supply) 49. It is not running and waits in a non-operating state.
- step S481 the number of binarized ones in step S452 that are determined to be “1" in one cycle (8 phases) is counted, and it is confirmed whether “1" is 7 phases or less. If the phase is 7 or less, it is determined as “YES” (the print head 2 is less dirty), and the process proceeds to step S482. If “1” has 8 or more phases, it is determined to be "NO” (the print head 2 has a lot of stains), and the process proceeds to step S462.
- step S482 ink is ejected from the nozzle 21 of the print head 2, ink particles 68B are captured by the gutter 25, a state in which normal charging phase search is performed, and operation start (ink ejection start) processing is performed. Indicates that it is completed.
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600 is tentatively beamed by performing an operation start (ink ejection start) process in a state where the print head 2 is set in the head mounting unit 3. Even if bending (such that the ink particles 68B ejected from the nozzle 21 do not enter the gutter 25 and stain the print head 2 with ink) occurs, the situation that the equipment around the print head 2 is soiled may be polluted.
- An inkjet recording apparatus 600 for preventing can be provided.
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600 temporarily causes beam bending by performing an operation start (ink ejection start) process in a state where the print head 2 is set in the head mounting unit 3.
- an operation start ink ejection start
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Also in this Example 5, the same configuration as in FIGS. 1 to 11 described in the first embodiment is adopted. Therefore, the description of FIGS. 1 to 11 will be omitted. Further, the description of the parts common to the above-mentioned Examples 1 to 4 will be omitted.
- the fifth embodiment will be described mainly with reference to FIGS. 21 to 25.
- FIG. 21 is a fluid path diagram showing the flow of the liquid when the ink circulation in the main body is performed in the fifth embodiment with a thick line.
- FIG. 22 is a fluid path diagram showing the flow of liquid and the flow of gas when the ink circulation of the main body and the print head in the fifth embodiment is performed by thick lines.
- FIG. 23 is a diagram showing the flow of ink when the nozzle cleaning and the circulation path cleaning in the fifth embodiment are performed.
- the inkjet recording device 600 in the fifth embodiment has the print head 2 set in the head mounting unit 3, and the flow of the liquid when the ink is circulated in the main body 1 is shown by a thick line (C1). It is a fluid path diagram shown by C2).
- the solenoid valve (for supply) 49 and the solenoid valve (for main body circulation) 58 are energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for supply) 34 and the pump (for recovery) 35 are operated.
- the ink 68A contained in the ink container 31 of the main body 1 has a solenoid valve (for supply) 49, a pump (for supply) 34, a filter (for supply) 39, and a pressure regulating valve 46.
- the ink 68A is circulated by passing through the pressure sensor 47, the solenoid valve (for circulation of the main body) 58, and the pump (for collection) 35 and returning to the ink container 31.
- the electromagnetic valve (for viscosity measurement) 57 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for circulation) 36 is operated to operate the main body 1 as shown by the thick line of the arrow C2.
- the ink 68A contained in the ink container 31 passes through the viscometer 45, the electromagnetic valve (for viscosity measurement) 57, and the pump (for circulation) 36, and returns to the ink container 31 to circulate the ink 68A. I have to. Further, if the viscosity of the ink 68A is measured using the viscometer 45 at the timing of the ink circulation in the main body 1, it becomes easier to grasp the state of the ink 68A the next time it is used.
- FIG. 22 shows a state in which the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment has the print head 2 set in the head mounting unit 3, and the liquid in the main body and the print head is circulated. It is a fluid path diagram which shows a flow by a thick line (D1 to D7).
- the solenoid valve (for supply) 49 is energized to open the flow path, the switching valve 26 is energized, the ink supply path is connected to the nozzle 21, and the pump is pumped.
- the (for supply) 34 By operating the (for supply) 34, as shown by the thick line of the arrow D1, the ink 68A contained in the ink container 31 of the main body 1 is supplied to the nozzle 21 of the print head 2 and the nozzle is used as the ink particles 68B. It is discharged from 21.
- the ink particles 68B are in a state where a voltage is applied by the charging electrode 23, and the amount of charging thereof is confirmed by the charge sensor 48.
- the solenoid valve (for recovery) 50 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for recovery) 35 is operated to operate the ink particles as shown by the thick line of the arrow D2.
- the air around 68B and the print head 2 is sucked from the gutter 25, and is sucked and pumped to the ink container 31 of the main body 1.
- the ink 68A and the air flow in a gas-liquid mixed state, so that the solvent component of the ink 68A dissolves in the air, and the air becomes a solvent gas and flows into the ink container 31.
- the ink that has flowed into the ink container 31 is stored in the bottom, and the air that has become the solvent gas is discharged to the outside of the main body 1 as the solvent gas as shown by the thick line of the arrow D3.
- the solvent component in the ink 68A is discharged to the outside of the machine as a solvent gas in this way, the ratio of the solvent component in the ink 68A decreases as the operation time becomes longer, and the concentration of the ink 68A becomes low. Becomes dark. On the contrary, if the operation time is short, the concentration of the ink becomes low due to the solvent 69A flowing into the ink container 31 in the nozzle cleaning process or the like. Therefore, in the paths (for viscosity measurement) 824 and 822, the electromagnetic valve (for viscosity measurement) 57 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for circulation) 36 is operated, which is indicated by the thick line of the arrow D5.
- the ink 68A in the ink container 31 is sent to the viscosity measuring device 45, and the viscosity (converted to the concentration) of the ink 68A is measured periodically.
- the detected value of the measured viscosity is input to the control unit 7.
- the control unit 7 replenishes the ink 68C in the auxiliary ink container 32 to the ink container 31, and when the density of the ink 68A is high, the thick line of the arrow D7 indicates.
- the solvent 69A in the solvent container 33 is controlled to be replenished to the ink container 31.
- the viscosity of the ink 68A is controlled so as to be within the control value range.
- the solenoid valve (for circulation) 59 is energized and the flow path is energized while the ink 68A is supplied from the ink container 31 to the nozzle 21 as shown by the thick line of the arrow D1.
- the pump (for circulation) 36 By opening the pump (for circulation) 36 and operating the pump (for circulation) 36, at least a part of the ink 68A supplied to the nozzle 21 is sucked into the pump (for circulation) 36, and the flow shown by the thick line of the arrow D3 is used.
- the ink 68A is circulated so as to return to the ink container 31.
- the solenoid valve (for circulation of the main body) 58 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for circulation) 36 is operated, as shown by the thick line of the arrow D6.
- Ink 68A can also be circulated for the path (for main body circulation) 808.
- FIG. 23 shows the ink flow when the inkjet recording device 600 in the fifth embodiment has the print head 2 set in the head mounting unit 3 and the nozzle cleaning and the circulation path cleaning are performed. Is shown by thick lines (E1 to E7).
- the solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 55 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for solvent) 37 is operated, as shown by the thick line of arrow E1.
- the solvent 69A contained in the solvent container 33 of the main body 1 is supplied to the print head 2 and discharged from the nozzle 21.
- the solenoid valve (recovery) 50 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (recovery) 35 is operated, as shown by the thick line of the arrow E1.
- the solvent 69A discharged from the nozzle 21 is captured by the gutter 25 and collected in the ink container 31.
- the solenoid valve (for circulation) 59 is energized to open the flow path while the solvent 69A is supplied from the solvent container 33 to the nozzle 21 as shown by the thick line of the arrow E1. Then, by operating the pump (for circulation) 36, at least a part of the solvent 69A supplied to the nozzle 21 is sucked into the pump (for circulation) 36, and the ink container is in the flow indicated by the thick line of the arrow E3. I am trying to collect it at 31.
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600 can use the solvent 69A to clean the nozzle 21, the ink path (for recovery) 811 to 812, and the path (for ink circulation) 821 to 822.
- the solenoid valve (for supply) 49 and the solenoid valve (for main body circulation) 58 are provided in the main body 1.
- the pump (for supply) 34 and the pump (for recovery) 35 By energizing and opening the flow path and operating the pump (for supply) 34 and the pump (for recovery) 35, the ink 68A contained in the ink container 31 of the main body 1 as shown by the thick line of the arrow E7. Is made to circulate.
- the electromagnetic valve (for viscosity measurement) 57 is energized to open the flow path, and the pump (for circulation) 36 is operated, so that the main body is shown by the thick line of the arrow E6.
- the ink 68A contained in the ink container 31 of 1 is supplied to the viscosity measuring instrument 45, and the viscosity of the ink 68A is measured by using the viscosity measuring instrument 45 at the timing of the ink circulation in the main body 1, and then the viscosity of the ink 68A is measured. Keep track of the state of the ink 68A when using it.
- Example 5 The ink circulation function setting screen at the time of long-term stop in the head mounting unit of the inkjet recording apparatus 600 according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 24.
- the screen of FIG. 24 is displayed by the operation display unit 8.
- FIG. 25 is a flowchart of ink circulation in the fifth embodiment when the operation is stopped for a long period of time.
- step S501 the start button for performing the ink circulation start processing at the time of long-term operation stop displayed on the touch panel type operation display unit 8 is pressed.
- the inkjet recording device 600 has stopped the ink ejection from the nozzle 21 of the print head 2, and the pump (for supply) 34. Power is not supplied to the ink circulation system parts such as the solenoid valve (for supply) 49 and the ink circulation system parts are not in operation.
- steps S511 to S514 and steps S521 to S524" are the same as “steps S111 to S114 and steps S121 to S124" described in FIG. 13 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of "steps S511 to S514 and steps S521 to S524" will be omitted.
- step S531 the content of "(d) Date and time reservation” is set in "(3) Next startup date and time reservation column" on the ink circulation function setting screen at the time of long-term stop in the head mounting unit shown in FIG. Make sure that. Then, if the set reservation time is reached, it is determined as "YES” and the process proceeds to step S532. If the reserved time has not been set, it is determined as “NO” and the process proceeds to step S541. It should be noted that even if the content set in the (3) next start-up date / time reservation column shown in FIG. 24 is “(c) not”, it is determined as “NO” and the process proceeds to step S541.
- step S541 the setting contents of "(a) hour and minute” are confirmed in "(1) Ink circulation start time setting field" on the ink circulation function setting screen at the time of long-term stop in the head mounting unit shown in FIG. 24.
- the inkjet recording device 600 is in a dormant state (ink ejection from the nozzle 21 of the print head 2 is stopped, and power is supplied to ink circulation system parts such as a pump (for supply) 34 and a solenoid valve (for supply) 49. Wait until the set time is reached.
- Step S542 carries out ink circulation in the main body 1 described with reference to FIG. 21.
- step S543 the same process as in S541 is executed.
- step S544 since the time confirmed in step S541 has come, the ink ejection process is started.
- step S551 "steps S441 to S442, steps S451 to S452, steps S461 to S463, steps S71 to S472, and steps S481 to S482" described in FIG. 20 of the fourth embodiment are carried out.
- step S552 the ink circulation of the main body 1 and the print head 2 described with reference to FIG. 22 is carried out.
- Step S561 measures the viscosity of the ink 68A using the viscosity measuring device 45.
- the ink density is calculated based on the relationship between the temperature and the viscosity of each ink type recorded by the control unit 7.
- step S562 it is determined whether or not the ink density calculated in step 561 is higher than a predetermined threshold value. If it is higher than the threshold value, it is determined as "YES”, and the process proceeds to step S571. If it is lower than the threshold value, it is determined as "NO”, and step S552 is executed again.
- the ink density of the ink 68A can be increased by performing the ink circulation described with reference to FIG.
- step S571 the ink ejection from the nozzle 21 is stopped by cutting off the energization of the switching valve 26.
- step S572 the nozzle cleaning and the circulation route cleaning described with reference to FIG. 23 are performed, and step S531 is executed again.
- step S532 "steps S441 to S442, steps S451 to S452, steps S461 to S463, steps S71 to S472, steps S481 to S482" described in FIG. 20 of the fourth embodiment are carried out.
- step S533 ink is ejected from the nozzle 21 of the print head 2, the ink particles 68B are captured by the gutter 25, the normal charging phase search is performed, and the operation start (ink ejection start) process is performed. Indicates that it is completed.
- the inkjet recording apparatus 600 is a component of the ink circulation system when the print head 2 is set (mounted) on the head mounting unit 3 and is not used for a long period of time.
- the ink circulation of the main body 1 and the print head 2 is automatically executed after a certain period of time, and if a problem such as beam bending occurs, the ink is automatically repaired and the main body 1 and the print head 2 are repaired again after a certain period of time. It is possible to provide an inkjet recording apparatus 600 capable of restarting ink circulation to the print head 2.
- the ink circulation of the main body 1 and the print head 2 is automatically executed after a certain period of time elapses until the reserved operation start (ink ejection start) date and time, and a problem at the start of operation is caused. It is possible to provide an inkjet recording apparatus 600 that can be reduced. Other examples
- ink container 31A ... liquid level sensor, 32 ... auxiliary ink container, 33 ... solvent container, 34 ... pump (for supply), 35 ... pump (for recovery), 36 ... pump (for circulation), 37 ... pump ( For solvent), 39 ... Filter (for supply), 40 ... Filter (for recovery), 41 ... Filter (for nozzle cleaning), 43 ... Filter (for head cleaning), 45 ... Viscosity measuring instrument, 46 ... Pressure regulating valve, 47 ... Pressure sensor, 48 ... Charge sensor, 49 ... Electromagnetic valve (for supply), 50 ... Electromagnetic valve (for recovery), 53 ... Electromagnetic valve (for solvent replenishment), 54 ... Electromagnetic valve (for ink replenishment), 55 ...
- Electromagnetic Valve for nozzle cleaning
- 56 Electromagnetic valve (for head cleaning), 57 ... Electromagnetic valve (for viscosity measurement), 58 ... Electromagnetic valve (for main body circulation), 59 ... Electromagnetic valve (for circulation), 60 ... Pump (for circulation) Drying), 61 ... Pump (for suction), 62 ... Exhaust duct connection, 68A ... Ink, 68B ... Ink particles, 68B1 ... Ink particles, 68B2 ... Charged charge, 68C ... Ink, 69A ... Solvent, 70 ... Liquid, 71 ... Cleaning tank, 71A ... Mounting part, 72 ... Cleaning nozzle, 72A ...
- RAM 311 ... viscosity measuring circuit, 312 ... Pressure detection circuit, 313 ... Liquid level detection circuit, 314 ... Pump control circuit, 315 ... Electromagnetic valve drive circuit, 321 ... Air pump control circuit, 322 ... Recovery container sensor detection circuit, 323 ... Print head detection circuit, 324 ... Head Mounting unit detection circuit, 331 ... Excitation voltage generation circuit, 332 ... Deflection voltage generation circuit, 341 ... Phase search charging signal generation circuit, 342 ... Printing charging signal generation circuit, 343 ... D / A converter, 344 ... Amplifier circuit, 351 ... Phase determination circuit, 352 ... A / D converter, 353 ... Amplifier circuit, 600 ...
- Inkjet recording device 801 to 804 ... Path (for supply), 806 ... Path (for replenishment), 808 ... Path (for main body circulation) , 811 to 812 ... path (for recovery), 814 ... path (for exhaust), 821 to 822 ... path (for head circulation), 824 ... path (for viscosity measurement), 831 ... path (for solvent supply), 833 ... Route (for solvent replenishment), 835 ... Route (for nozzle cleaning), 837 ... Route (for head cleaning), 841 ... Route (for air supply), 843 ... Route (for air suction), 901 to 903 ... Confluence route, 921-922 ... Branch route
Landscapes
- Ink Jet (AREA)
- Particle Formation And Scattering Control In Inkjet Printers (AREA)
Abstract
Description
実施例1
最初に、本発明の実施例1におけるインクジェット記録装置の使用状態について、図1を用いて説明する。図1は、本発明の実施例1におけるインクジェット記録装置の使用状況を示す斜視図である。
次に、実施例1におけるインクジェット記録装置600の経路構成について、図2を用いて説明する。図2は、本実施例におけるインクジェット記録装置600の全体の経路構成を示す図である。
次に、本実施例におけるインクジェット記録装置600の制御部7の構成について説明する。図3は、本実施例におけるインクジェット記録装置600の制御部7および印字機構部(本体1および印字ヘッド2)の概略構成を示す図である。図3において、301は、インクジェット記録装置600全体を制御する制御部であるマイクロプロセッシングユニット(以下、MPUという)である。302はバスラインであり、制御部を構成する各機器間でのデータや制御信号などを伝送する機能を有する。例えば、バスライン302は、MPU301の演算委必要なデータや検知信号などを各機器から入力し、データ信号、アドレス信号およびコントロール信号を各機器に伝送するために使用される。306は、MPU301が動作するのに必要な制御用プログラムおよびデータを記憶する読み出し専用のメモリ(ROM)である。307は、MPU301がプログラム実行中に必要となるデータを一時的に記憶する書き換え可能なメモリ(RAM)である。8は、印字内容や設定値等を入力したり、入力されたデータおよび印字内容等を表示する操作表示部である。この操作表示部8は、ここでは液晶表示画面の表面に透明なタッチスイッチを重合したタッチ入力式表示パネルを使用する。
次に、実施例1におけるインクジェット記録装置600のヘッド装着ユニット3の詳細な構成について、図4~図6を用いて説明する。図4は、ヘッド装着ユニット3の構成図(洗浄ノズル72を断面にした図)である。図5は、そのヘッド装着ユニット3において、回収容器を取り外した状態を示すヘッド装着ユニットの断面図である。図6は、印字ヘッドを装着した状態を示すヘッド装着ユニットの断面図である。
実施例1に係るインクジェット記録装置600において、印字ヘッド2がヘッド装着ユニット3にセットされた状態で、ヘッド洗浄処理及びヘッド乾燥処理を実行しているときの動作について、図7~図11を用いて説明する。
実施例1に係るにインクジェット記録装置600のヘッド洗浄関連設定画面について、図12を用いて説明する。なお、図12の画面は、操作表示部8に表示させる。
次に、本実施例におけるインクジェット記録装置600のヘッド洗浄処理の動作の流れについて、図13を用いて説明する。図13は、実施例1におけるヘッド洗浄処理のフローチャート図である。
以上説明したように、本発明の実施例1によれば、印字ヘッド2を洗浄する際に、印字ヘッド2周囲で放出される溶剤蒸気量を低減することができる為、印字ヘッド2洗浄時に作業者が感じる溶剤蒸気の匂いを低減する事ができる。
実施例2
まず、図14により、ヘッド洗浄処理におけるインク汚れ判定方法について説明する。
次に、実施例2におけるインクジェット記録装置700のヘッド洗浄処理の動作の流れについて、図15を用いて説明する。図15は、実施例2におけるヘッド洗浄処理のフローチャート図である。
以上説明したように、本発明の実施例2によれば、インクジェット記録装置600は、印字ヘッド2をヘッド装着ユニット3にセットする事で、印字ヘッド2のインク68Aに汚れ量を少ない溶剤69Aの使用量で自動で判別し、自動で印字ヘッド2のインク汚れが落ちた事を判別するまで、ヘッド洗浄を実行することが可能なインクジェット記録装置600を提供することができる。
実施例3
次に、本実施例におけるインクジェット記録装置600の稼働停止処理の動作フローを、図16を用いて説明する。図16は、実施例3における稼働停止処理のフローチャート図である。
以上説明したように、本発明の実施例3によれば、インクジェット記録装置600は、稼働中(ノズル21からインク68Aを噴出している)の状態で、印字ヘッド2をヘッド装着ユニット3にセットする事で、インク噴出停止処理(ノズル21からインク68Aの噴出を停止させる処理)、ノズル洗浄処理(ノズル21から溶剤69Aを噴出させて経路内を洗浄する処理)、及びヘッド洗浄処理(洗浄ノズル72から溶剤69Aを噴出させて印字ヘッド2を外側から洗浄する処理)の一連の流れを自動で実施することが可能なインクジェット記録装置600を提供することができる。
実施例4
本実施例におけるインクジェット記録装置600の位相探索方法について説明する。図17は、励振信号と位相探索用帯電電圧の位相関係を示すタイムチャートである。図17において、(a)は、帯電電圧印加タイミングを検出する例として、粒子化の基準となる励振信号である。(b)は、励振信号の1周期を拡大した図である。(c)は、励振信号の1周期を8分割し、各位相から始まる半周期分の帯電信号を印加する場合の各位相における帯電波形である。
実施例4に係るにインクジェット記録装置600のヘッド装着ユニット3内インク噴出開始設定画面について、図19を用いて説明する。なお、図19の画面は、操作表示部8で表示させるようにしている。
次に、本実施例におけるインクジェット記録装置600の稼働開始(インク噴出開始)処理の動作フローについて、図20を用いて説明する。図20は、実施例4における稼働開始処理のフローチャート図である。
以上説明したように、本発明の実施例4によれば、インクジェット記録装置600は、印字ヘッド2をヘッド装着ユニット3にセットした状態で稼働開始(インク噴出開始)処理を行う事で、仮にビーム曲がり(ノズル21から噴出するインク粒子68Bがガター25に入らずに、印字ヘッド2をインクで汚してしまうような事)が発生したとしても、印字ヘッド2の周辺の設備を汚すような事態を防止するインクジェット記録装置600を提供することができる。
実施例5
まず、印字ヘッド2がヘッド装着ユニット3にセットされた状態で、本体1及び印字ヘッド2のインク循環を実行している時の動作について、図21~図23を用いて説明する。図21は、実施例5における本体内インク循環が行われているときの液の流れを太線で示す流体経路図である。図22は、実施例5における本体及び印字ヘッドのインク循環が行われているときの液の流れ及び気体の流れを太線で示す流体経路図である。図23は、実施例5におけるノズル洗浄及び循環経路洗浄が行われているときのインクの流れを示す図である。
実施例5に係るにインクジェット記録装置600のヘッド装着ユニット内長期停止時のインク循環機能設定画面について、図24を用いて説明する。なお、図24の画面は、操作表示部8で表示させるようにしている。
次に、本実施例におけるインクジェット記録装置600の長期稼働停止時のインク循環開始処理の動作フローについて、図25を用いて説明する。図25は、実施例5における長期稼働停止時のインク循環のフローチャート図である。
以上説明したように、本発明の実施例5によれば、インクジェット記録装置600は、印字ヘッド2をヘッド装着ユニット3にセット(装着)した状態で、長期間使用しない場合にインク循環系部品の固着防止の為に、一定時間経過時に本体1及び印字ヘッド2のインク循環を自動で実行し、仮にビーム曲がり等のトラブルが発生した場合には自動で修復して再び一定時間経過時に本体1及び印字ヘッド2へのインク循環を再開することができるインクジェット記録装置600を提供することができる。
他の実施例
Claims (28)
- 印字を行う印字ヘッドと、
インク容器内のインクを前記印字ヘッドに供給するための経路、印字に使用しない前記インクを前記インク内に回収するための経路、溶剤容器内の溶剤を前記インク容器に供給するための経路、および各経路における前記インクおよび前記溶剤の流れを調節する調節部を備えた本体と、
前記本体および前記印字ヘッドを制御する制御部と、
前記印字ヘッドを収容可能な空間を有し下部に開口部を有する洗浄槽、前記開口部から流出する液体を回収する回収容器を有するヘッド装着ユニットと、を備えたインクジェット記録装置であって、
前記洗浄槽と連結し前記洗浄槽で発生する溶剤蒸気を吸引し排出するための溶剤蒸気吸引経路および前記溶剤蒸気を排出する駆動部を設けたインクジェット記録装置。 - 請求項1に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記ヘッド装着ユニットには、前記印字ヘッドが前記洗浄槽内にセットされたことを検出する印字ヘッド検出器が設けられていることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項1に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記ヘッド装着ユニットには、前記洗浄槽の前記開口部に前記回収容器が取付けられていることを検出する検出器が設けられていることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項1に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記溶剤蒸気吸引経路には、前記溶剤蒸気に含まれる液体を収容するチャンバーを有することを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項1に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記ヘッド装着ユニットは、前記本体とケーブルにより接続されていることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項1に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記ヘッド装着ユニットは、
前記洗浄槽内に収容された前記印字ヘッドに向けて溶剤を吐出する洗浄ノズルを備えていることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。 - 請求項6に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記洗浄ノズルは、前記印字ヘッドのノズルを狙って前記溶剤を吐出するためのノズル穴と、前記印字ヘッドの偏向電極を狙って前記溶剤を吐出するためのノズル穴とを備えていることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項1に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記ヘッド装着ユニットには、前記印字ヘッドを乾燥させるための空気を前記洗浄槽内に吐出するエア吐出口が形成されていることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項1に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記溶剤蒸気吸引経路は、本体側と接続されていることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項9に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記本体は、前記インク容器と接続された溶剤蒸気排出経路を備えており、前記溶剤蒸気吸引経路の溶剤蒸気出口部は、前記溶剤蒸気排出経路の出口部と同じ空間内に前記溶剤蒸気を排出することを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 入力されたインクを粒子化して吐出するノズル、前記ノズルから吐出されたインク粒子を帯電させる帯電電極、前記帯電電極で帯電された前記インク粒子を偏向する偏向電極、および印字に使用されない不使用インクを回収するガターを有する印字ヘッドと、
インク容器内の前記インクを前記ノズルに供給するためのインク供給経路、前記ガターが回収した前記不使用インクを前記インク内に回収するためのインク回収経路、溶剤容器内の溶剤を供給するための溶剤供給経路、および各経路における前記インクおよび前記溶剤の流れを調節する調節部を備えた本体と、
前記本体および前記印字ヘッドを制御する制御部と、
前記印字ヘッドを収容可能な空間を有する洗浄槽、前記洗浄槽内に収容された前記印字ヘッドに向けて前記溶剤を吐出する洗浄ノズル、および前記印字ヘッドを乾燥する空気を前記洗浄槽内に吐出するエア吐出口を有するヘッド装着ユニットと、を備えたインクジェット記録装置であって、
前記帯電電極で帯電された前記インク粒子の電荷量を検出する電荷センサを設け、
前記制御部は、前記洗浄ノズルから前記溶剤を吐出させて前記印字ヘッドを洗浄し、その後に前記偏向電極に電圧をかけた状態で、前記電荷センサに反応があるかどうかを検知するインクジェット記録装置。 - 請求項11に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記制御部は、前記電荷センサに反応がある場合には前記洗浄ノズルから前記溶剤を追加で吐出する制御を行うことを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項11に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記制御部は、前記エア吐出口から前記空気を吐出する前と吐出の後に、前記電荷センサに反応があるかどうかを確認することを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項13に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記制御部は、前記電荷センサに反応がある場合、前記エア吐出口から前記空気を追加で噴出させることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 入力されたインクを粒子化して吐出するノズル、前記ノズルから吐出されたインク粒子を帯電させる帯電電極、前記帯電電極で帯電された前記インク粒子を偏向する偏向電極、および印字に使用されない不使用インクを回収するガターを有する印字ヘッドと、
インク容器内の前記インクを前記ノズルに供給するためのインク供給経路、前記ガターが回収した前記不使用インクを前記インク容器に回収するためのインク回収経路、溶剤容器内の溶剤を供給するための溶剤供給経路、および各経路における前記インクおよび前記溶剤の流れを調節する調節部を備えた本体と、
前記本体および前記印字ヘッドを制御する制御部と、
前記印字ヘッドを収容可能なヘッド装着ユニットと、を備えたインクジェット記録装置であって、
前記制御部は、前記印字ヘッドが前記ヘッド装着ユニットに装着されている状態を確認後、前記ノズルからインク粒子を吐出開始することを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。 - 請求項15に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記制御部は、前記印字ヘッドが前記ヘッド装着ユニットに装着されている状態を確認後、前記ノズルからの前記インクの吐出を停止させることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項16に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記制御部は、前記ノズルからインク粒子の吐出を停止させた後に、前記ノズルから前記溶剤を吐出させて、前記ガターから前記溶剤を吸引させることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項15に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記ヘッド装着ユニットは収容された前記印字ヘッドに向けて溶剤を吐出する洗浄ノズル、および前記印字ヘッドを乾燥する空気を前記洗浄槽内に吐出するエア吐出口を有することを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項18に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記洗浄ノズルは液吐出穴を備え、前記制御部は、前記ノズルからインクの吐出を停止させた後に、前記液吐出穴から前記溶剤を噴出させることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項15に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記帯電電極で帯電されたインク粒子の電荷量を検出する電荷センサを設け、前記制御部は、前記電荷センサにて検出した前記電荷量を入力し、前記電荷量のレベルが予め設定された閾値を超えていないと判定された場合に、前記ノズルからのインク吐出を停止することを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項18に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記洗浄ノズルは、液吐出穴を備え、前記制御部は、前記ノズルからの前記インク粒子を吐出させることを停止させた後に、前記液吐出穴から前記溶剤を吐出させることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項21に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記制御部は、前記液吐出穴から前記溶剤を吐出することを停止させた後に、前記ノズルから前記インクを吐出させることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項15に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記制御部は、前記ノズルから前記インクの吐出を開始するタイミングを予め設定したタイミングにて行うことを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項15に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記帯電電極で帯電された前記インク粒子の電荷量を検出する電荷センサを設け、前記制御部は、前記印字ヘッドが前記ヘッド装着ユニットに装着されている状態において、予め設定された間隔で、前記ノズルからの前記インクの吐出を開始し、予め設定した一定時間だけ経路内を前記インクを循環させ、その後に前記ノズルからの前記インクの吐出を停止させるサイクルを繰り返すことを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項24に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記本体に前記インクの粘度を測定する粘度測定器を設け、前記制御部は、前記ノズルから前記インクを吐出しているときに、定期的に前記粘度測定器による粘度を測定し、前記粘度が予め設定した粘度閾値を超えていない場合に前記ノズルからの前記インクの吐出を継続することを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項24に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記制御部は、前記電荷量のレベルが予め設定した閾値を超えている場合に、前記ノズルからの前記インクの吐出を停止することを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項26に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記ヘッド装着ユニットに備えられた洗浄ノズルは前記溶剤が吐出される液吐出穴を有し、前記制御部は、前記ノズルからの前記インクの吐出を停止させた後に、前記液吐出穴から前記溶剤を吐出させることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
- 請求項27に記載されたインクジェット記録装置において、前記制御部は、前記液吐出穴からの前記溶剤の吐出を停止させた後に、前記ノズルから前記インクを吐出させることを特徴とするインクジェット記録装置。
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US18/032,722 US20230391089A1 (en) | 2020-11-04 | 2020-11-04 | Inkjet Recording Device |
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JP2014073644A (ja) * | 2012-10-05 | 2014-04-24 | Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Co Ltd | インクジェット記録装置 |
JP2014168896A (ja) * | 2013-03-04 | 2014-09-18 | Ricoh Co Ltd | 液滴吐出ヘッドの洗浄装置 |
WO2017141483A1 (ja) * | 2016-02-17 | 2017-08-24 | 株式会社日立製作所 | 3次元着色システム及び3次元構造物の製造方法 |
JP2019123117A (ja) | 2018-01-15 | 2019-07-25 | 株式会社日立産機システム | インクジェット記録装置 |
WO2019234965A1 (ja) * | 2018-06-06 | 2019-12-12 | 株式会社日立産機システム | インクジェット記録装置 |
US20190389222A1 (en) * | 2018-06-21 | 2019-12-26 | Dover Europe Sàrl | Method and device for maintaining a nozzle print head |
JP2020049786A (ja) | 2018-09-27 | 2020-04-02 | 株式会社日立産機システム | インクジェット記録装置 |
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JP2014073644A (ja) * | 2012-10-05 | 2014-04-24 | Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Co Ltd | インクジェット記録装置 |
JP2014168896A (ja) * | 2013-03-04 | 2014-09-18 | Ricoh Co Ltd | 液滴吐出ヘッドの洗浄装置 |
WO2017141483A1 (ja) * | 2016-02-17 | 2017-08-24 | 株式会社日立製作所 | 3次元着色システム及び3次元構造物の製造方法 |
JP2019123117A (ja) | 2018-01-15 | 2019-07-25 | 株式会社日立産機システム | インクジェット記録装置 |
WO2019234965A1 (ja) * | 2018-06-06 | 2019-12-12 | 株式会社日立産機システム | インクジェット記録装置 |
US20190389222A1 (en) * | 2018-06-21 | 2019-12-26 | Dover Europe Sàrl | Method and device for maintaining a nozzle print head |
JP2020049786A (ja) | 2018-09-27 | 2020-04-02 | 株式会社日立産機システム | インクジェット記録装置 |
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CN116018272A (zh) | 2023-04-25 |
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