WO2023058267A1

WO2023058267A1 - Inkjet recording device and control method therefor, and monitoring system for inkjet recording device

Info

Publication number: WO2023058267A1
Application number: PCT/JP2022/022344
Authority: WO
Inventors: 翔貴山口
Original assignee: 株式会社日立産機システム
Priority date: 2021-10-04
Filing date: 2022-06-01
Publication date: 2023-04-13
Also published as: JP2023054592A

Abstract

This inkjet recording device can calculate the time at which a cartridge replacement indication and an ink or solvent replenishment indication are displayed, and can notify a user of an estimated time at which the replenishment of ink or solvent is needed. The inkjet recording device is structured to provide control to: calculate the consumption amount of ink or solvent per time from information on printing contents or the number of times of printing performed per time in the past, and operating information on a pump and an electromagnetic valve; divide the remaining amount of ink or solvent by the consumption amount of ink or solvent per time; and estimate in advance the time before an ink or solvent replenish indication is issued.

Description

Inkjet recording apparatus, control method thereof, and monitoring system for inkjet recording apparatus

The present invention relates to an inkjet recording apparatus, its control method, and an inkjet recording apparatus monitoring system.

Inkjet recording devices print by ejecting droplets of ink from the ink ejection openings of the print head. In addition, the solvent may be consumed for adjusting the viscosity of the ink and cleaning the path. Therefore, it is necessary to periodically replenish the ink and solvent, and a level sensor for detecting the remaining amount of ink or solvent is arranged in the container holding the ink or solvent. Control is being carried out to encourage replenishment. Such an inkjet recording apparatus is disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example.

Republished patent WO2015-114814

According to Patent Document 1, if ink or solvent is not detected by the liquid level detection unit, a warning to replace the cartridge is displayed on the display unit. If you try to replenish the ink or solvent by forcibly replacing the cartridge without a replacement instruction, there is a danger that the ink or solvent will exceed the capacity of the container and overflow. Therefore, the user normally replaces the cartridge when instructed to replace it. However, if the user does not notice the replacement instruction warning, the ink or solvent will not be replenished, resulting in the machine stopping and the production line stopping. Therefore, the user had to check the warning display periodically.

The present invention solves the above-described problems of the prior art, calculates the time during which the cartridge replacement instruction and the ink or solvent replenishment instruction are displayed, and allows the user to predict when the ink or solvent replenishment is required. To provide an inkjet recording apparatus that can be provided to

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a print head for printing on a printing object with ink, an ink container for containing ink to be supplied to the print head, a solvent container for containing a solvent, a print head and an ink container. and a solvent container to flow ink or solvent; a control unit for controlling the print head, the ink container, the solvent container, and the channel; In an inkjet recording apparatus having a main body containing a path and a controller, the controller calculates the remaining time until ink or solvent is supplied from the amount of ink or solvent used, and calculates the calculated remaining time. is displayed on the display unit.

According to the present invention, by predicting and displaying the time until ink or solvent replenishment is required, it is possible to prevent stoppage of the production line, and at the same time, the user can confirm the ink or solvent replenishment instruction. It can also contribute to the improvement of work efficiency by reducing the frequency of

1 is a perspective view showing an inkjet recording apparatus; FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 1; It is a figure which shows the path|route structure of an inkjet recording device. 1 is a functional block diagram of an inkjet recording apparatus; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an auxiliary ink container of the inkjet recording apparatus; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an auxiliary ink container showing how the auxiliary ink container is used in the inkjet recording apparatus; FIG. 10 is a flowchart of calculation processing of the remaining time until an ink replenishment instruction is issued according to the first embodiment; 3 is a cross-sectional view of a solvent container of the inkjet recording apparatus; FIG. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a solvent container showing how the solvent container is used in the inkjet recording apparatus; 7 is a flowchart of processing for calculating a remaining time until a solvent replenishment instruction is given in Example 1. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of remaining amount update processing of ink or solvent according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a front view of an operation display unit that displays the remaining time until an instruction to replenish ink and solvent in Example 1; FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an inkjet recording apparatus monitoring system in Example 2; 10 is a flow chart of calculation processing of the remaining time until a solvent replenishment instruction is given in Example 3. FIG. 10 is a flow chart of solvent evaporation amount calculation processing per fixed time in Example 3. FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart of remaining printable count calculation processing until an ink replenishment instruction is issued in the fourth embodiment. FIG. FIG. 16 is a flowchart of remaining printable count calculation processing until an ink replenishment instruction is issued in Example 5. FIG. FIG. 16 is a flow chart of remaining printable count calculation processing until a solvent replenishment instruction is given in Example 5. FIG.

According to the present invention, in an inkjet recording apparatus, the amount of ink or solvent consumed per hour is calculated from information on the print content, the number of times of printing per hour in the past, and the operation information of a pump and a solenoid valve, and the remaining amount of ink or solvent is calculated. is divided by the amount of ink or solvent consumed per hour so that the time until an instruction to replenish ink or solvent is issued can be predicted in advance.

Further, the present invention provides a main body portion having an ink container containing ink for printing on a printing object, a solvent container containing a solvent, and an ink container, and a main body portion connected to the ink container and supplied under pressure. A nozzle for ejecting ink, a charging electrode for charging ink particles used for printing, a deflection electrode for deflecting the charged ink particles by the charging electrode, and a gutter for collecting ink particles not used for printing. a controller for estimating the time from the amount of consumption of ink or solvent during a certain period until the ink or solvent needs to be replenished, and the time predicted by the controller for displaying the time A display unit is further provided.

Further, according to the present invention, an inkjet recording apparatus includes: a main body having an ink container containing ink for printing on a printing object; a solvent container containing a solvent; and the ink container, and connecting the ink container. Nozzles from which the ink supplied under pressure is ejected, charging electrodes that charge the ink particles used for printing, deflection electrodes that deflect the ink particles charged by the charging electrodes, and ink particles that are not used for printing are collected. and a monitoring unit capable of wireless communication with the inkjet recording apparatus main body and having a display unit. The amount of ink or solvent consumed during a certain period of time is used to estimate the time until ink or solvent needs to be replenished, and the information is displayed on the display unit. Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, the present invention is not limited to the following examples.

<Usage pattern of inkjet recording device>
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an inkjet recording apparatus 400 of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, an inkjet recording apparatus 400 includes an operation display section 3 in a body section 1 and a print head section 2 on the outside. .

Next, FIG. 2 shows a vertical cross-sectional view of the main body 1 of the inkjet recording apparatus 400 in FIG. 1 taken along line A-A. In FIG. 2, electrical components such as a control unit 300 and a power source 310 for supplying current to the control unit 300 are arranged on the upper part of the main body 1, and an operation display unit 3 is arranged on the front surface of the upper part.

In addition, in a space 610 on the front side of the lower part of the main body 1, there are a temperature sensor 48, a main ink container 18 (see FIG. 3), and an auxiliary ink container 20 for replenishing the main ink container 18 (see FIG. 3) with ink. A bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 (see FIG. 5) and a cartridge (ink) 50, and a bottle (solvent) 61 (see FIG. 8) and a cartridge (see FIG. 8) of a solvent container 19 (see FIG. 8) containing a solvent for adjusting the ink density. Solvent) 60 (see FIG. 8) and the like are contained. Also, the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 and the cartridge (ink) 50 of the auxiliary ink container 20 are placed on a weighing scale 80 . However, the weighing scale 80 is not necessarily a necessary component.

Furthermore, in the space 620 on the back side of the lower part of the main body 1, a channel board 621, solenoid valves 34 to 39, circulatory system control parts such as pumps 24 to 27, etc. are accommodated. is connected to the print head unit 2 via the . The length of conduit 4 is typically 4-6 m. Inside the conduit 4, there are arranged a tube through which ink flows in and out, a high-voltage power supply line for applying voltage to each electrode, and a control line. Also, by opening and closing the door 600 on the lower front side of the main body 1, maintenance such as replacement of the ink and

solvent cartridges

50 and 60 can be easily performed.

Next, the path configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus will be explained using FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the overall path configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 400. As shown in FIG.

First, the ink supply path of the inkjet recording apparatus 400 of this embodiment will be described. The body portion 1 is provided with a main ink container 18 that holds the circulating ink 7A, and the main ink container 18 has an appropriate amount to hold the liquid in the main ink container 18 inside. A liquid level sensor (main ink container) 46 is provided to detect whether or not the standard liquid level has been reached.

The main ink container 18 is connected to a viscosity measuring device 43 via a path (for ink supply) 201 in order to ascertain the viscosity of the ink 7A in the main ink container 18. The viscosity measuring device 43 is connected via a path (for ink supply) 202 to an electromagnetic valve (for supply) 34 for opening and closing the path, and the electromagnetic valve (for supply) 34 is connected via a path (for ink supply) 203. It is connected to a pump (for supply) 24 used for sucking and pumping the ink 7A. The pump (for supply) 24 is connected via a path (for ink supply) 204 to a filter (for supply) 28 for removing foreign substances mixed in the ink 7A.

The filter (for supply) 28 is connected to a pressure reducing valve 33 that adjusts the pressure of the ink 7A pressure-fed from the pump (for supply) 24 via a path (for ink supply) 205 to a proper pressure for printing. The pressure reducing valve 33 is provided with a pressure gauge 31 for measuring the pressure of the ink 7A supplied to the nozzles via a path (for ink supply) 206. FIG. The pressure gauge 31 is connected to a switching valve 42 provided in the print head section 2 via a path (for ink supply) 207 passing through the conduit 4 .

The switching valve 42 is connected via a path (for ink supply) 209 to a nozzle 8 having an ejection port for ejecting the ink 7A. The switching valve 42 is an electromagnetic valve, and performs switching for ejecting the ink or cleaning solvent from the nozzle 8 . A charging electrode 10, a ground deflection electrode 11, and a positive deflection electrode 12 are installed in the straight direction of the ejection port of the nozzle 8. Beyond that, the electrode is not charged by the charging electrode 10 because it is not used for printing, and is grounded. A gutter 14 is arranged for catching ink particles 7C that fly straight without being deflected when passing between the deflection electrode 11 and the positive deflection electrode 12 .

Next, the ink recovery path will be described with reference to FIG. The gutter 14 is connected via a path (for ink recovery) 212 passing through the conduit 4 to a filter (for recovery) 29 that removes foreign matter mixed in the ink arranged in the main body 1 . , the filter (for recovery) 29 is connected via a path (for ink recovery) 213 to an electromagnetic valve (for recovery) 35 for opening and closing the path.

The solenoid valve (for recovery) 35 is connected via a path (for ink recovery) 214 to a pump (for recovery) 25 that sucks the ink particles 7C captured by the gutter 14 . The pump (for recovery) 25 is connected to the main ink container 18 via a path (for ink recovery) 215 and a path (for recovery) 216 . Further, the main ink container 18 is connected to a path (for exhaust) 217 , and the path (for exhaust) 217 communicates with the outside of the main body 1 .

Next, the ink supply route will be described with reference to FIG. The main body 1 is provided with an auxiliary ink container 20 that holds auxiliary ink 7D, which is ink for replenishment. It is connected to a valve (for replenishment) 36 . The electromagnetic valve (for replenishment) 36 is connected via a path (for ink replenishment) 222 to a junction path 223 connected to the path (for ink supply) 203 .

Next, the ink circulation path will be described with reference to FIG. The nozzles 8 provided in the print head section 2 are connected to a path (for ink supply) 209 as well as a path (for circulation) 225 passing through the conduit 4 . The path (for circulation) 225 is connected to an electromagnetic valve (for circulation) 37 that is provided in the main body 1 and opens and closes the flow path. The electromagnetic valve (for circulation) 37 is connected to a pump (for circulation) 26 that sucks ink from the nozzles 8 via a path (for circulation) 226 . The pump (for circulation) 26 is connected to the path (for ink recovery) 215 via a path (for circulation) 227 and a junction path 228 .

Next, the solvent replenishment route of the inkjet recording apparatus 400 of FIG. 3 will be described. The main body 1 is provided with a solvent container 19 that holds the solvent 6 for replenishment. 27. The pump (for solvent) 27 is connected to a confluence path 232 and a solenoid valve (for solvent replenishment) 38 to open and close the flow path via the confluence path 232. The solenoid valve (for solvent replenishment) 38 is It is connected to main ink container 18 via path 233 .

Next, the head cleaning path of the inkjet recording apparatus 400 of FIG. 3 will be described. Ink adheres to each portion of the print head portion 2 that has ejected the ink 7A supplied from the main ink container 18 . As a route for supplying the solvent 6 for cleaning the ink that has landed on the print head unit 2, a route 231 from the solvent container 19, a pump (for solvent) 27, a route (for cleaning) 236, an electromagnetic valve (for nozzle cleaning) ) 39 and a path (for cleaning) 237 leading to the switching valve 42 is formed. Part of the solvent supplied from the solvent container 19 to the switching valve 42 of the print head unit 2 through this path is recovered from the nozzle 8 to the main ink container 18 via the path (for circulation) 225 . On the other hand, the solvent ejected from the nozzle 8 is recovered by the gutter 14 and recovered to the main ink container 18 through the path (for ink recovery) 212 .

Next, a functional block diagram of the inkjet recording apparatus 400 will be described using FIG. In FIG. 4, the inkjet recording apparatus 400 is provided with a control unit 300 having, for example, an MPU. 12, pumps 24 to 27, solenoid valves 34 to 39, pressure reducing valve 33, pressure gauge 31, switching valve 42: viscosity measuring device 43, liquid level sensor (main ink container) 46, temperature sensor 48, recording unit 302, etc. Each part is controlled. The recording unit 302 stores a program for controlling the inkjet recording apparatus 400, and the control unit 300 is configured to control each component of the inkjet recording apparatus 400 based on this program.

Next, the configuration of the auxiliary ink container 20 used in the inkjet recording apparatus 400 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the auxiliary ink container 20 in which the cartridge (ink) 50 is connected to the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 . Note that FIG. 5 is a simplified example for explanation of this embodiment, and the shape and configuration are not limited to this.

5, the auxiliary ink container 20 includes a bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 that holds the auxiliary ink 7D, a top surface portion 51C that functions as a lid for sealing the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51, and a bottle (auxiliary ink) A convex tube portion 51A extending outside the cartridge (ink) 50 for connecting to the cartridge (ink) 50, a concave tube portion 51B arranged below the convex tube portion 51A and extending inside the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51, Level sensor electrodes 52 to 55 are provided as a detection unit for detecting replacement timing of the cartridge (ink) 50 . Although the convex tube portion 51A and the concave tube portion 51B are individually described here, they may be integrally formed.

The level sensor electrodes 52 to 55 include an electrode (GND) 52 for detecting the lower limit of the remaining amount of ink in a bottle (auxiliary ink) 51, an electrode (LOW) 53 shorter than the electrode (GND) 52, and an electrode (LOW) 53 whose tip is the auxiliary ink. The electrode (standard) 54 is positioned between the lower end of the path (for ink supply) 221 in the container and the lower end (standard level line 56) of the concave tube portion 51B. and an electrode (over) 55 installed above the level line 56 .

Here, the state in which the level of the auxiliary ink 7D in the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 is higher than the standard level line 56 corresponds to the state in which the auxiliary ink 7D still remains inside the cartridge (ink) 50. However, when the level of the auxiliary ink 7D in the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 is lower than the standard level line 56, the auxiliary ink 7D in the cartridge (ink) 50 runs out, and the cartridge (ink) 50 runs out. Corresponds to the empty state.

The electrode (GND) 52 is a reference electrode for detecting the state of continuity with other electrodes, that is, the presence or absence of the auxiliary ink 7D in the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51. The electrode (LOW) 53 is for detecting a state in which the amount of the auxiliary ink 7D in the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 has decreased and the remaining amount of the auxiliary ink 7D in the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 is low. The electrode (standard) 54 is for detecting replacement timing of the cartridge (ink) 50, and the height of this liquid level is called standard. The electrode (over) 55 detects the state of the liquid surface higher than the standard height when ink is being replenished from the cartridge (ink) 50 .

With such a configuration, it is possible to select two of the level sensor electrodes 52 to 55 using a galvanometer (not shown), connect them to the galvanometer, and check the conduction state based on the presence or absence of current. can be done. That is, the ink level can be checked.

Fig. 6 shows the detection state of each electrode. (a) is the state in which the electrode (over) 55 detects the auxiliary ink 7D, and (b) is the state in which the electrode (over) 55 does not detect the auxiliary ink 7D and the electrode (standard) 54 detects the auxiliary ink 7D. (c) is the state in which the electrode (standard) 54 does not detect the auxiliary ink 7D and the electrode (LOW) 53 detects the auxiliary ink 7D; (d) is the state in which the electrode (LOW) 53 detects the auxiliary ink Each shows a state in which only the electrode (GND) 52 is in contact with the auxiliary ink 7D without detecting 7D.

In the states of (b), (c), and (d) of FIG. 6, the control unit 300 detects that it is time to replace the cartridge (ink) 50, and allows the user to replace the cartridge (ink) 50 through the operation display unit 3 or the like. can let you know. In addition, in the state (d), the control unit 300 can detect that the auxiliary ink 7D will run out soon, and prompt the user to replace the ink via the operation display unit 3 or the like.

According to this configuration, when the surface 71 of the auxiliary ink 7D shifts from (a) to (b), from (b) to (c), and from (c) to (d), the auxiliary ink 7D is the capacity of the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 up to the height of the tips of the level sensor electrodes 52 to 54, so the remaining amount of auxiliary ink 7D can be recorded in the recording unit 302 at the transition timing of each state. Although four level sensor electrodes are shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the number is not limited. For example, four or more electrodes may be used to more precisely detect the amount of auxiliary ink 7D.

Next, the processing flow for calculating the remaining time until the replenishment instruction will be described with reference to FIG.
In FIG. 7, step S101 first shows a state in which the calculation processing of the remaining time until the replenishment instruction is started in the control section 300 .
Next, in step S102, control for measuring the amount of ink consumed per fixed time from step S103 to step S105 is started.
First, in step S103, the number of ink particles used for printing for a certain period of time is measured.
Next, in step S104, the volume data per ink particle based on the device settings (printing conditions) stored in advance in the recording unit 302 is read.
Next, in step S105, from the data obtained in steps S103 and S104, the amount of ink consumed per fixed time is calculated.
Next, in step S106, control for measuring the amount of ink consumed per fixed period of time ends.

Next, in step S107, the surface 71 of the auxiliary ink 7D detected by the level sensor electrodes 52 to 55 stored in the recording unit 302 is in the state from (a) to (b) in FIG. Based on the state (c) or the information on the transition timing from (c) to (d), that is, the information at the time when the

level sensor electrodes

55, 54, or 53 no longer detect the auxiliary ink 7D. Information on the calculated remaining amount of ink is read, and the data on the amount of ink consumed per fixed time acquired in S105 and the surface 71 of the auxiliary ink 7D detected by the level sensor electrodes 52 to 55 are shown in FIG. b), or from (b) to (c), or from (c) to (d), using the information on the cumulative printing time from the timing of transition to any of the states, The remaining amount of 7D is obtained, and the time until a replenishment instruction to replace the empty cartridge (ink) 50 with a cartridge (ink) 50 filled with ink is calculated.

Next, in step S108, the time until the replenishment instruction calculated in S107 is stored and updated in the recording unit 302 as remaining time data.

Finally, the remaining time data updated in step S109 is displayed in the ink remaining time display area 350 (see FIG. 12) of the operation display unit 3, and in step S110, the remaining time calculation process until the replenishment instruction is completed.

Next, the configuration of the solvent container 19 used in the inkjet recording apparatus 400 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 shows a sectional view of the solvent container 19 in which the cartridge (solvent) 60 is connected to the bottle (solvent) 61 . Note that FIG. 8 is a simplified example for explanation of this embodiment, and the shape and configuration are not limited to this.

In FIG. 8, the solvent container 19 includes a bottle (solvent) 61 holding the solvent 6, a top surface 61C serving as a lid for sealing the bottle (solvent) 61, and an outer surface of the bottle (solvent) 61. A convex tube portion 61A for connecting to the cartridge (solvent) 60, and a concave tube portion 61B arranged below the convex tube portion 61A and extending inside the bottle (solvent) 61, and the ink liquid level is kept at a constant level. A float sensor 62 is provided to detect the lowering.

The float sensor 62 includes an indicator rod 63, a detection portion 64 for detecting that the liquid level has fallen below a standard level line 67 (same height as the lower end of the concave tube portion 61B), and a constant volume of the solvent 6. A float 65 for detecting that the magnet 65A is a part of the float 65, a stopper 66 for holding the float 65 so that it does not come off, and a magnetic sensor 65B for detecting the magnetism of the magnet 65A. and Although the convex tube portion 61A and the concave tube portion 61B are individually described here, they may be integrally formed.

Here, the state in which the liquid level of the solvent 6 inside the bottle (solvent) 61 is higher than the standard level line 67 corresponds to the state in which the solvent 6 still remains inside the cartridge (solvent) 60. ) 61 is lower than the standard level line 67 corresponds to the state in which there is no solvent 6 in the cartridge (solvent) 60, that is, the state in which the cartridge (solvent) 60 is empty. do.

In addition, since the liquid level of the solvent 6 when the float 65 contacts the detection unit 64 is below the standard level line 67, the liquid of the solvent 6 is The surface becomes above the standard level line 67, the float 65 remains in contact with the detection section 64, and the detection section 64 outputs a detection signal.

The detection state of the liquid surface 68 of the solvent 6 contained in the bottle (solvent) 61 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 9A, the float sensor 62 detects that the liquid level is lower than the standard level line 67 by lowering the float 65 in conjunction with the liquid level 68 of the solvent 6 . That is, it can be seen that the cartridge (solvent) is empty.

In FIG. 9B, the float sensor 62 moves down with the liquid level 68 until the float 65 hits the stopper 66, and the magnetic sensor 65B detects the magnetism of the magnet 65A, which is a part of the float 65. It can be detected that the liquid surface 68 has reached near the bottom of the bottle (solvent) 61 . That is, it detects that the solvent 6 will run out soon.

In the state of FIG. 9(a), the control unit 300 can detect that it is time to replace the cartridge (solvent) 60, and notify the user through the operation display unit 3 or the like that replacement is possible. In addition, in the state of FIG. 9(b), the control unit 300 can detect that the solvent 6 will run out soon, and prompt the user to replace the solvent through the operation display unit 3 or the like.

According to such a configuration, when the float 65 is separated from the detection part 64 in the state of FIG. 9A and the float 65 is in contact with the stopper 66 in the state of FIG. Since the capacity of the bottle (solvent) 61 is up to the height of each liquid surface 68, the timing at which the float 65 moves away from the detection unit 64 as shown in FIG. The remaining amount of the solvent 6 can be recorded in the recording portion 302 at the timing when the float 65 comes into contact with the stopper 66 as shown in FIG.

Although the example shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 has been described with the configuration of the solvent container 19, it can also be applied to the auxiliary ink container 20. FIG. That is, instead of the level sensor electrodes 52-55 of the auxiliary ink container 20 described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the float sensor 62 described with reference to FIGS. is detected by a plurality of magnetic sensors attached at a plurality of positions with different heights, thereby detecting the level of the liquid level of the auxiliary ink 7D inside the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51, as described in FIG. Calculation processing of the remaining time until the replenishment instruction can be performed according to a simple flow.

In this manner, the ink jet recording apparatus 400 can detect the amount of consumed ink or solvent. It can also be obtained from the detected value. Alternatively, a flowmeter for detecting the amount of ink pressure-fed from the auxiliary ink container and a flowmeter for detecting the amount of solvent pressure-fed from the solvent container may be provided, and the flow rate can be determined from the flow rate detection value.

Next, the processing flow for calculating the remaining time until the solvent replenishment instruction will be described with reference to FIG.

In FIG. 10, step S121 first shows a state in which the calculation processing 120 of the remaining time until the replenishment instruction is started in the control unit 300. FIG.

Next, step S122 shows a state in which control for measuring the amount of solvent consumed per fixed time from step S123 to step S125 is started.
Next, in step S123, the time during which the solenoid valve is opened for a certain period of time is measured.
Next, in step S124, the flow rate data of the solvent 6 is read from the recording unit 302 for each time the solenoid valve (for solvent replenishment) 38 or the solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 39 is open based on the setting of the apparatus.
Next, in step S125, the amount of solvent consumed per fixed time period is calculated from the data obtained in steps S123 and S124.
Next, step S126 indicates a state in which the control for measuring the amount of solvent consumption per fixed time has ended.

Next, in step S127, the remaining solvent amount of the solvent 6 inside the bottle (solvent) 61 detected by the float sensor 62 is read from the recording unit 302, and the time from the obtained solvent consumption amount to the replenishment instruction is calculated. Calculate

Next, in step S128, the remaining time data calculated in step S127 is stored and updated in the recording unit 302.

Finally, the remaining time data stored and updated in the recording unit 302 in step S129 is displayed in the solvent remaining time display area 360 (see FIG. 12) of the operation display unit 3, and in step S130, the remaining time until the replenishment instruction is calculated. End 120.

Note that the process of calculating the remaining time based on the time that the solenoid valve (for solvent replenishment) 38 or the solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 39 is opened is the calculation of the remaining time until the instruction to replenish the auxiliary ink 7D described with reference to FIG. It can also be used as a processing flow.

Next, after printing is started by the print head unit 2, the remaining amount of the auxiliary ink 7D in the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 of the auxiliary ink container 20 and the remaining amount of the solvent 6 in the bottle (solvent) 61 of the solvent container 19 will take time. 7 and step S127 in FIG. 10, "The remaining amount data of ink or solvent used needs to be updated. Refer to FIG. 11 for the processing flow for updating the remaining amount data of ink or solvent. will be used for explanation.

In FIG. 11, step 141 first shows a state in which the ink or solvent remaining amount update process 140 is started in the control unit 300 .

Next, in step 142, the consumption amount of ink or solvent per fixed time obtained by the process of step S105 explained in FIG. 7 or step S125 explained in FIG. 10 is read.

Next, in step S143, the liquid surface level of the auxiliary ink 7D inside the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 of the auxiliary ink container 20 or the solvent inside the bottle (solvent) 61 of the solvent container 19 described with reference to FIG. 6 or FIG. It is determined whether or not there is a change in the detection state of the liquid level of 6.

If it is determined in step S143 that there is a change in the detection state of the liquid level of the auxiliary ink 7D inside the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 or the liquid level of the solvent 6 inside the bottle (solvent) 61 of the solvent container 19 ( If S143 is YES), the process proceeds to step S144, and stored in the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 in the state in which it is determined that there has been a change in the detection state in step S143, that is, in the state of (a) to (d) in FIG. Information on the volume of the auxiliary ink 7D that is being used or the volume of the solvent 6 inside the bottle (solvent) 61 in the state of (a) or (b) of FIG.

Next, in step S145, the remaining amount data of the auxiliary ink 7D inside the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 read from the recording unit 302 in step S144 or the remaining amount data of the solvent 6 inside the bottle (solvent) 61 is used as ink or ink. The remaining amount of solvent data is stored and updated in the recording unit 302, and the remaining amount of ink or solvent update process 140 is terminated (step S148).

On the other hand, in step S143, it is determined that there is no change in the detected state of the liquid level of the auxiliary ink 7D inside the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 or the liquid level of the solvent 6 inside the bottle (solvent) 61 of the solvent container 19. If so (NO in S143), the remaining ink or solvent data stored in the recording unit 302 is updated and stored based on the amount of ink or solvent consumed per fixed time read in step S142. , the ink or solvent remaining amount update process 140 ends (step S148).

The ink or solvent remaining amount data updated in step S145 or step S149 is the ink remaining amount data used in step S107 in the processing flow described in FIG. 7, and the solvent remaining amount data used in step S128 in the processing flow described in FIG. Used as data.

Next, referring to FIG. 12, the display on the remaining ink time display area 350 of the operation display section 3 in step S109 of the processing flow of FIG. 7 and the display on the operation display section 3 in step S129 of the processing flow of FIG. 19 will be described. do.

FIG. 12 shows a state in which information is displayed in the remaining ink time display area 350 and the remaining solvent time display area 360 of the operation display section 3, respectively.

In the remaining ink time display area 350, there is a remaining ink time display that displays information regarding the remaining time until replacement of the cartridge (ink) 50 of the auxiliary ink container 20 updated and stored in step S107 of the processing flow of FIG. 7 in units of minutes. 351 and an ink remaining amount display area 352 that graphically displays the amount of auxiliary ink remaining in the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 . In the example shown in the remaining ink amount display area 352 in FIG. 12, the amount of auxiliary ink remaining in the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 is indicated by 353 surrounded by a thick frame.

In the solvent remaining time display area 360, a solvent remaining time display section for displaying information regarding the remaining time until replacement of the cartridge (solvent) 60 of the solvent container 19 updated and stored in step S127 of the processing flow of FIG. 10 is displayed in units of minutes. 361 and a remaining amount of solvent display area 362 that graphically displays the amount of solvent 6 remaining in the bottle (solvent) 61 . In the example shown in the solvent remaining amount display area 362 in FIG. 12, the amount of solvent remaining in the bottle (solvent) 61 is indicated by 363 surrounded by a thick frame.

<Effect of Example 1>
As described above, according to this embodiment, volume data of one ink particle based on the setting of the apparatus is obtained from the recording unit 302 provided in the ink jet recording apparatus 400, and ink or ink for each time the solenoid valve is open is obtained. By reading the flow rate data of the solvent, measuring the number of ink particles used per fixed time and the time the electromagnetic valve is open per fixed time, it is possible to calculate the consumption of ink or solvent per fixed time. From this data, it is possible to calculate the time until a replenishment instruction to replace an empty cartridge of ink or solvent with a cartridge filled with ink or solvent, and update and store it in the recording unit 302 as time data. . By displaying this time data on, for example, the operation display unit 3 to notify the user, it is possible to prevent the stoppage of the production line in order to replace the cartridge filled with ink or solvent. This reduces the frequency with which users need to confirm ink or solvent replenishment instructions, contributing to improved operational efficiency.

The invention according to the second embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the description of the parts common to the above embodiment will be omitted, and mainly the parts that differ from the above embodiment will be described.

FIG. 13 shows a schematic configuration diagram of an inkjet recording apparatus monitoring system. As shown in FIG. 13, the inkjet recording apparatus monitoring system 500 includes the inkjet recording apparatus 400 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, a communication network 501, and an external terminal 502. FIG.
The external terminal 502 includes a display unit (external) 503, a control unit (external) 504, and a recording unit (external) for monitoring the operating state of the inkjet recording apparatus 400 and remotely operating the inkjet recording apparatus 400. 505 are provided. The inkjet printing apparatus 400 and the external terminal 502 can transmit mutual information by wireless communication.

<Effect of Example 2>
As described above, according to this embodiment, not only is the calculated time until the ink or solvent replenishment instruction displayed on the operation display unit 3 of the inkjet recording apparatus 400, but also an external terminal is displayed via the communication network 501. 502 and can be displayed on a display (external) 503, for example.

The invention according to Example 3 will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, the method of calculating the time until the ink replenishment instruction is the same as the method described with reference to FIG. 1 is different from the method described with reference to FIG. Note that the description of the parts common to the above embodiment will be omitted, and mainly the parts that differ from the above embodiment will be described.

FIG. 14 shows a processing flow for calculating the remaining time until a solvent replenishment instruction is given in the third embodiment.
This embodiment differs from the method described in Embodiment 1 in that it also uses information on the amount of solvent volatilized per certain time (the amount of solvent that evaporates and decreases) to calculate the time until the solvent is replenished. .

In FIG. 14, step S161 shows a state in which the calculation process 160 of the remaining time until the replenishment instruction is started in the control unit 300.

Step S162 shows a state in which control for measuring the amount of solvent consumed per fixed time from step S163 to step S165 has started.

First, in step S163, the time during which the solenoid valve (for solvent supply) 38 or the solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 39 is open for a certain period of time is measured. Next, in step S164, flow rate data per unit time is read from the recording unit 302 when the electromagnetic valve (for solvent replenishment) 38 or the electromagnetic valve (for nozzle cleaning) 39 is open based on the setting of the apparatus. Next, in step S165, the amount of consumption of the solvent 6 per fixed time is calculated from the data acquired in steps S163 and S164, and in step S166, the solvent consumption amount measurement control per fixed time ends.

Next, in step S167, the solvent volatilization amount calculation process per fixed time is executed. From the amount of solvent volatilized per fixed time calculated in S167, the time until a supply instruction to replace the empty cartridge (solvent) 60 with the cartridge (solvent) 60 filled with the solvent 6 is calculated.

Next, in step S169, the time until the replenishment instruction calculated in step S168 is stored and updated in the recording unit 302 as remaining time data. 3 is displayed in the solvent remaining time display area 360, and the calculation processing 130 of the remaining time until the replenishment instruction is completed (step S171). Although step S167 is executed after steps S162 to S166 in FIG. 14, it may be executed before steps S162 to S166.

FIG. 15 shows a detailed processing flow of the solvent volatilization amount calculation process per fixed time in step S167 described in FIG.

In FIG. 15, first, in step S181, the solvent vaporization amount calculation process 180 per fixed time is started in the control unit 300. FIG.

First, in step S182, the time for measuring the volatilization amount of the solvent 6 is measured, then in step S183, the ambient temperature data detected by the temperature sensor 48 provided in the inkjet recording apparatus 400 is read.

Next, in step S184, the ambient temperature data read in step S183 is collated with the data stored in the recording unit 302 that records the relationship between the temperature and the solvent volatilization amount per unit time. 6 is extracted, and the extracted solvent 6 volatilization amount data per unit time and the time data for measuring the volatilization amount of the solvent read in step S182 are used to calculate the solvent volatilization amount per fixed time. Then, the solvent volatilization amount calculation process 180 per fixed time ends (step S185).

<Effect of Example 3>
As described above, according to this embodiment, the amount of solvent consumed per fixed time period is calculated taking into consideration the amount of solvent naturally volatilized and consumed other than the amount of solvent used by the solenoid valves and pumps of the apparatus. Then, it is possible to calculate the time until the instruction to replenish the solvent from the solvent remaining amount data, update and store it in the recording unit 302 as time data. By displaying this time data on, for example, the operation display unit 3 and the display unit (external) 503 to inform the user, the stoppage of the production line can be prevented, and at the same time, the user can confirm the ink or solvent replenishment instruction. Reduce the frequency and contribute to the improvement of work efficiency.

The invention according to Example 4 will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, the method of calculating the time until the ink replenishment instruction is different from the method described with reference to FIG. 7 in the first embodiment. On the other hand, the method of calculating the time until the instruction to replenish the solvent is the same as the method described with reference to FIG. 10 in the first embodiment or the method described in the third embodiment. The description of the parts common to the above-described first to third embodiments will be omitted, and mainly the parts different from the above-described embodiments will be described.

FIG. 16 shows a processing flow for calculating the number of remaining printable times up to an ink replenishment instruction in the fourth embodiment. In Examples 1 and 3, the time until the ink replenishment instruction is obtained is obtained. Different case.

In FIG. 16, step S191 shows a state in which the processing 190 for calculating the number of remaining prints until the replenishment instruction is started in the control unit 300. FIG.

First, in step S192, data of characters to be printed and the number of ink particles to be used are read from the recording unit 302.

Next, in step S193, the volume data per ink particle based on the device settings is read from the recording unit 302.

Next, in step S194, the amount of ink used for one printing is calculated from the data acquired in steps S192 and S193.

Next, in step S195, the remaining amount of ink recorded in the recording unit 302 is read, and using the information on the amount of ink to be used for one printing calculated in step S194, the empty cartridge in the auxiliary ink container 20 is The number of printable times until a replenishment instruction to replace the (ink) 50 with a cartridge (ink) 50 filled with ink is calculated.

Next, in step S196, the remaining printable count data calculated in step S195 is stored and updated in the recording unit 302. The number of remaining printable times is displayed in an area corresponding to the remaining ink time display area 350 of the operation display section 3 described above, and the remaining printable number calculation process 160 until the replenishment instruction is completed (step S198).

<Effect of Example 4>
As described above, according to the present embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, the amount of remaining ink is converted by the number of times of printing, instead of by the time. By displaying this remaining number of printing data on, for example, the operation display unit 3 and the display unit (external) 503 to notify the user, it is possible to prevent the production line from being stopped, and at the same time, the user can issue an ink or solvent replenishment instruction. It can also contribute to the improvement of work efficiency by reducing the frequency of confirmation.

The invention according to Example 5 will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, the method of calculating the time until the ink replenishment instruction and the method of calculating the time until the solvent replenishment instruction are different from the methods described in the first embodiment with reference to FIGS. The description of the parts common to the above-described first embodiment will be omitted, and mainly the parts different from the above-described embodiment will be described.

In the first embodiment, the remaining amount of ink is calculated based on the volume data of one ink particle and the information on the number of ink particles ejected from the nozzles 8 of the print head unit 2 for a certain period of time, and the remaining time until the ink supply instruction is calculated. However, the remaining time until the solvent replenishment instruction is calculated based on the flow rate data of the solvent flowing through the solenoid valve per unit time and the information on the time the solenoid valve is open. The weight of the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 measured by the weight scale 80 shown and the weight of the bottle (solvent) 61 measured by the weight scale not shown are read, and the cartridge (ink) 50 or cartridge The difference is that the time until the (solvent) 60 is replaced is calculated.

First, the processing flow for calculating the remaining time until a supply instruction to replace the cartridge (ink) 50 that supplies the auxiliary ink 7D to the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 will be described with reference to FIG.
In FIG. 17, step S601 first shows a state in which the calculation processing of the remaining time until the replenishment instruction is started in the control section 300 .
Next, in step S602, ink consumption weight measurement control per fixed time from step S603 to step S605 is started. First, in step S603, the number of ink particles used for printing for a certain period of time is measured. Next, in step S604, the weight data per ink particle based on the device settings (printing conditions) stored in advance in the recording unit 302 is read. Next, in step S105, from the data obtained in steps S103 and S104, the ink consumption weight per certain period of time is calculated. Next, in step S606, the ink consumption weight measurement control per fixed time ends.

Next, in step S607, information on the remaining ink weight obtained from the weight of the bottle (auxiliary ink) 51 measured by the weighing scale 80 and the constant stored in the recording unit 302 calculated in the processing from steps S602 to S606 are Using the data on the weight of ink consumed per hour, the time required to replace an empty cartridge (ink) 50 with a cartridge (ink) 50 filled with ink is calculated.

Next, in step S608, the time until the replenishment instruction calculated in step S607 is stored and updated in the recording unit 302 as remaining time data.

Finally, the remaining time data updated in step S609 is displayed in the ink remaining time display area 350 (see FIG. 12) of the operation display unit 3, and in step S610, the calculation processing of the remaining time until the replenishment instruction ends.

In Example 1, the amount of solvent consumed per fixed period of time was obtained using the flow rate data of the solvent 6 for each time period during which the solenoid valve (for solvent replenishment) 38 or the solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 39 is open. However, in this embodiment, the consumption weight of the solvent per a certain period of time is calculated using the data of the weight of the solvent 6 flowing for each time when the solenoid valve (for solvent replenishment) 38 or the solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 39 is open. The difference is that they are requested.

In FIG. 18, step S621 first shows a state in which the calculation processing 620 of the remaining time until the replenishment instruction is started in the control unit 300. FIG.

Next, step S622 shows the state in which the solvent consumption weight measurement control per fixed time from step S623 to step S625 has started. First, in step S623, the time during which the solenoid valve is opened for a certain period of time is measured. Next, in step S624, weight data of the flowing solvent 6 is read from the recording unit 302 based on the setting of the apparatus for each time the solenoid valve (for solvent replenishment) 38 or the solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 39 is open, and step S625. In step S623 and step S624, the weight of solvent consumed per fixed time period is calculated, and the solvent consumption amount measurement control per fixed time period ends (step S626).

Next, in step S627, the weight data of the solvent container 19 measured by a weighing scale (not shown) is read, and the amount of solvent per fixed time calculated in the processing of steps S622 to S727 and stored in the recording unit 302 is read. Using the consumption weight data, the time until a replenishment instruction to replace the empty cartridge (solvent) 60 with the cartridge (solvent) 60 filled with solvent is calculated.

Next, in step S628, the time until the replenishment instruction calculated in step S627 is stored and updated in the recording unit 302 as remaining time data.

Finally, in step S629, the remaining time data stored and updated in the recording unit 302 is displayed in the solvent remaining time display area 360 (see FIG. 12) of the operation display unit 3, and in step S630, the remaining time until the replenishment instruction is calculated. Exit 620.

<Effect of Example 5>
As described above, according to this embodiment, the weight data of one ink particle based on the setting of the apparatus from the recording unit 302 provided in the inkjet recording apparatus 400 and the ink flowing every time the electromagnetic valve is open Alternatively, it is possible to read the weight data of the solvent, measure the number of ink particles used per fixed time and the time the solenoid valve is open per fixed time, and calculate the consumption weight of ink or solvent per fixed time. From this data, it is possible to calculate the time until a replenishment instruction to replace an empty cartridge of ink or solvent with a cartridge filled with ink or solvent, and update and store it in the recording unit 302 as time data. . By displaying this time data on, for example, the operation display unit 3 and notifying the user, it is possible to prevent the stoppage of the production line in order to replace the ink or solvent cartridge. It can also contribute to improving work efficiency by reducing the frequency of users checking replenishment instructions.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 main body 2 print head 3 operation display 4 conduit 6 solvent 7A ink 7C ink particles 7D auxiliary ink 8 nozzle 9 electrostrictive element 10 Charging electrode 11 Ground deflection electrode 12 Plus deflection electrode 14 Gutter 18 Main ink container 19 Solvent container 20 Auxiliary ink container 24 Pump (for supply) 25 Pump (recovery for), 26... Pump (for circulation), 27... Pump (for solvent), 28... Filter (for supply), 29... Filter (for recovery), 31... Pressure gauge, 33... Pressure reducing valve, 34... Solenoid valve ( supply), 35... Solenoid valve (for recovery), 36... Solenoid valve (for supply), 37... Solenoid valve (for circulation), 38... Solenoid valve (for solvent supply), 41... Solenoid valve (for air supply) , 42... Switching valve, 43... Viscometer, 46... Liquid level sensor (main ink container), 47... Phase sensor, 48... Temperature sensor, 50... Cartridge (ink), 51... Bottle (auxiliary ink), 52... Electrode (GND), 53... Electrode (LOW), 54... Electrode (standard), 55... Electrode (over), 56... Standard level line, 60... Cartridge (solvent), 61... Bottle (solvent), 62... Float sensor , 63... Indicator rod, 64... Detection part, 65... Float, 66... Stopper, 67... Standard level line, 201 to 209... Path (for ink supply), 211 to 215... Path (for ink recovery), 216... Recovery Route 217 Route (for exhaust) 221 to 222 Route (for ink supply) 223 Join route 225 to 227 Route (for circulation) 228 Join route 231 to 233 Route (for solvent supply ), 235 branch path 236 to 237 path (for cleaning) 300 control unit 301 bus line 302 recording unit 400 inkjet recording apparatus 500 inkjet recording apparatus monitoring system 501 communication network , 502 external terminal 503 display unit (external) 504 control unit (external) 505 recording unit (external)

Claims

a print head that prints on a print target with ink;
an ink container containing ink to be supplied to the print head; a solvent container containing solvent to be supplied to the ink container; An inkjet recording apparatus comprising: a flow passage portion; and a main body portion containing a control portion for controlling the print head, the ink container, the solvent container, and the passage portion and including a display portion,
The ink jet recording apparatus, wherein the control unit calculates the remaining time until the ink or the solvent is supplied from the usage amount of the ink or the solvent, and displays the calculated remaining time on the display unit. .
The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1,
An auxiliary ink container for replenishing the ink to the ink container is further provided, and the auxiliary ink container comprises an ink bottle and an ink cartridge attached to the ink bottle, and the controller controls the ink supplied by the print head. and the remaining amount of ink in the ink bottle, the remaining time until replacement of the ink cartridge is calculated, and the calculated remaining time is displayed on the display unit. recording device.
The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 2,
The control unit determines the amount of the ink used by the print head based on the volume of the ink particles ejected from the print head and the number of the ink particles ejected from the print head in a given period of time. An inkjet recording apparatus characterized in that the calculation is performed by
The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 2,
The control unit calculates the amount of the ink used by the print head based on information on the volume of the ink particles ejected from the print head and the number of ink particles used for characters to be printed. An inkjet recording device characterized by:
The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 2,
The control unit determines the amount of the ink used by the print head based on the weight of the ink particles ejected from the print head and the number of the ink particles ejected from the print head in a given period of time. and calculating the remaining time until the ink cartridge is replaced based on the used amount of ink obtained from the weight of the ink particles and the weight of the remaining ink inside the ink bottle. An inkjet recording device characterized by:
The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1,
The solvent container includes a solvent bottle and a solvent cartridge attached to the solvent bottle, and the controller controls the flow rate of the solvent flowing out of the solvent bottle and the remaining amount of the solvent inside the solvent bottle. and calculating the remaining time until replacement of the solvent cartridge based on the above information, and displaying the calculated remaining time until replacement of the solvent cartridge on the display unit.
The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 6,
The path portion includes an electromagnetic valve that opens and closes the flow of the solvent,
The control unit controls the flow rate of the solvent flowing out of the solvent bottle based on the time during which the solenoid valve is open and the flow rate of the solvent flowing through the solenoid valve per unit time when the solenoid valve is open. An ink jet recording apparatus characterized by calculating a flow rate of.
The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 6,
The control unit controls the amount of time until the solvent cartridge is replaced based on information on the flow rate of the solvent flowing out of the solvent bottle, the amount of the solvent volatilized per fixed time period, and the remaining amount of the solvent inside the solvent bottle. An inkjet recording apparatus characterized by calculating a remaining time.
The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1,
The solvent container includes a solvent bottle and a solvent cartridge attached to the solvent bottle, and the controller controls the weight of the solvent flowing out of the solvent bottle and the weight of the solvent inside the solvent bottle. and calculating the remaining time until replacement of the solvent cartridge by means of an ink jet recording apparatus, and displaying the calculated remaining time until replacement of the solvent cartridge on the display unit.
a print head that prints on a print target with ink;
an ink container containing ink to be supplied to the print head; a solvent container containing solvent to be supplied to the ink container; an ink jet recording apparatus comprising: a flow passage portion; a body portion containing the print head, the ink container, the solvent container, and a first control portion for controlling the passage portion;
A monitoring system for an inkjet recording device comprising an external terminal connected to the inkjet recording device by wireless communication and having a second control unit and a display unit,
The external terminal predicts the time from the amount of consumption of the ink or the solvent in the ink jet recording apparatus during a certain period of time to the time when the ink or the solvent needs to be replenished by the second control unit, and displays the A monitoring system for an inkjet recording apparatus, characterized in that the predicted time is displayed on a unit (external).
A print head that prints on a print target with ink, an ink container that stores ink to be supplied to the print head, a solvent container that stores a solvent to be supplied to the ink container, the print head, the ink container, and the solvent. a main body having a display unit and containing a path portion connected to a container to flow the ink or the solvent; and a control portion for controlling the print head, the ink container, the solvent container, and the path portion. A control method for an inkjet recording apparatus comprising
The ink jet recording apparatus, wherein the control unit calculates the remaining time until the ink or the solvent is supplied from the usage amount of the ink or the solvent, and displays the calculated remaining time on the display unit. control method.
A control method for an inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 11,
An auxiliary ink container for supplying the ink to the ink container is further provided, and the auxiliary ink container comprises an ink bottle and an ink cartridge attached to the ink bottle. and the remaining amount of ink in the ink bottle, the remaining time until replacement of the ink cartridge is calculated, and the calculated remaining time is displayed on the display unit. A method of controlling a recording device.
A control method for an inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 12,
The controller controls the amount of the ink used by the print head based on the volume of the ink particles ejected from the print head and the number of the ink particles ejected from the print head in a given period of time. A control method for an ink jet recording apparatus, characterized by calculating:
A control method for an inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 12,
The controller calculates the amount of ink used by the print head based on information on the volume of the ink particles ejected from the print head and the number of ink particles used for characters to be printed. A control method for an inkjet recording apparatus.
A control method for an inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 11,
The solvent container includes a solvent bottle and a solvent cartridge attached to the solvent bottle, and the controller controls the flow rate of the solvent flowing out of the solvent bottle and the remaining amount of the solvent inside the solvent bottle. and displaying the calculated remaining time until replacement of the solvent cartridge on the display unit.