recording device

Abstract

A recording apparatus is provided. The recording apparatus includes a recording head that performs recording on a recording medium being transported in a transport direction, a carriage that carries the recording head and performs scanning in a scanning direction that intersects the transport direction, and a guide member that has a flat surface that guides the carriage in the scanning direction. The carriage includes a sliding portion that slides in contact with the guide member, an impregnation member that impregnates at least one of the scanning directions of the sliding portion with a lubricant, and a pressing member that presses the impregnation member toward the guide member from a surface opposite the guide member with respect to the impregnation member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a recording device having a carriage equipped with a recording head for recording on media such as paper. Background Technology

[0002] As an example of a recording device, a serial recording device is known, which has a carriage and a guide member, wherein the carriage carries a recording head that records on a recording medium such as paper, and the guide member supports the carriage in a manner that allows it to move in a scanning direction that intersects the transport direction of the recording medium (for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a recording device in which the guide member is a guide rail, and the carriage and the sliding part of the sliding member slide on the guide rail coated with lubricant. The load generated by the sliding resistance when the carriage moves in the scanning direction guided by the guide rail is reduced by the lubricant.

[0004] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses a recording device with a guide shaft as the guide member, comprising a lubricant supply section for supplying lubricant to the guide shaft. The lubricant supply section supplies lubricant by contacting the outer peripheral surface of the guide shaft. The lubricant supply section uses a component such as felt impregnated with lubricant. Additionally, while Patent Document 2 also discloses a structure where the guide member is a guide plate, it does not disclose the specific structure of the lubricant supply section relative to the guide plate.

[0005] However, assuming that the structure described in Patent Document 1 includes a lubricant supply section as in Patent Document 2, the following situation arises: due to changes in the orientation of the carriage relative to the guide rail, the contact strength between the felt or other impregnated parts constituting the lubricant supply section and the guide rail becomes uneven. When unevenness occurs on the side with weaker contact strength, the following problem arises: the impregnated parts may separate from the sliding surface (rail surface) of the guide rail, or the contact pressure on the sliding surface may become too small, potentially causing a delay in the supply of lubricant between the sliding part and the sliding surface. In this case, the large sliding resistance caused by insufficient lubricant will cause deviations in the carriage's movement speed, resulting in reduced recording accuracy of the recording device or premature wear of the sliding part of the carriage, thus shortening the lifespan of the recording device 11.

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-13451

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-124232 Summary of the Invention

[0008] A recording apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: a recording head that records on a recording medium being conveyed in a conveying direction; a carriage that mounts the recording head and scans in a scanning direction intersecting the conveying direction; a guide member having a flat surface that guides the carriage in the scanning direction, the carriage including: a sliding portion that abuts against and slides against the guide member; an impregnation member that impregnates at least one side of the sliding portion in the scanning direction with a lubricant; and a pressing member that presses the impregnation member toward the guide member from a surface opposite to the impregnation member. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a front view showing one embodiment of a recording device.

[0010] Figure 2 A schematic side sectional view of the recording device.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a side view showing the recording section and the guide components.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a side view showing the carriage guide structure.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the recording section when viewed from the bottom side.

[0014] Figure 6 A three-dimensional view showing multiple sliding parts in a carriage.

[0015] Figure 7 A three-dimensional diagram showing two types of sliding parts in a carriage.

[0016] Figure 8 A rear sectional view showing the cross-section of the sliding unit assembled on the carriage.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional view of the sliding unit as seen from the sliding surface side.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the sliding unit when viewed from the side opposite to the sliding surface.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the slider of the sliding unit when viewed from the sliding surface side.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the slider of the sliding unit when viewed from the side opposite to the sliding surface.

[0021] Figure 13 A cross-sectional view illustrating the function of the sliding part.

[0022] Figure 14 A cross-sectional view showing the effect produced by the oscillation of the sliding part.

[0023] Figure 15 A partial cross-sectional view of a sliding unit showing the supply of lubricant from the reservoir to the impregnated component.

[0024] Figure 16 A perspective view illustrating the assembly and disassembly steps of the sliding unit relative to the carriage. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the recording apparatus will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the recording apparatus of this embodiment is an inkjet printer that prints (records) text or images on a medium such as paper by ejecting liquid such as ink onto the medium.

[0026] The recording device records images, etc., on the recording medium by holding a roll on which a recording medium is wound in a rotatable manner and spraying liquid onto the surface of the recording medium as it is pulled out from the roll.

[0027] Structure of the recording device

[0028] like Figure 1 As shown, the recording device 11 includes a housing 12 and feet 13 that support the housing 12. The housing 12 has a generally rectangular shape. The housing 12 includes a front wall 121, a rear wall 122, a first side wall 123, a second side wall 124, an upper wall 125, and a base frame 14 supported by the feet 13.

[0029] Hereinafter, the recording device 11 is assumed to be placed on a horizontal plane, thus defining the vertical direction Z. The direction along a plane orthogonal to the vertical direction Z, which is the direction of movement of the carriage 31, is called the scanning direction X. Since the direction along a plane orthogonal to the vertical direction Z, intersecting the scanning direction X, is the transport direction of the medium at the recording position when the recording head 32 mounted on the carriage 31 records the recording medium, this direction is called the transport direction Y. Furthermore, the scanning direction X includes a +X direction and a -X direction. The +X direction is a forward movement direction when the carriage 31 reciprocates, and the -X direction is the direction opposite to this forward movement direction. Additionally, the transport direction D of the transport medium (refer to...) Figure 2The direction of transport varies depending on the position on the transport path of the recording medium. The transport direction Y is equivalent to the transport direction D at the recording position. Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the scanning direction X is equivalent to the width direction of the recording medium intersecting the transport direction, it is also referred to as the width direction X. Further, the vertical direction Z includes the downward direction +Z, which is one direction of the vertical direction, and the upward direction -Z, which is the opposite direction to the downward direction +Z. Additionally, in this embodiment, the scanning direction X, the transport direction Y, and the vertical direction Z are orthogonal to each other.

[0030] like Figure 1 As shown, the basket 12 has a storage section 15 for storing two cylindrical rolls 25. The storage section 15 has an opening 16 at the lower part of the front wall 121 of the basket 12, through which the rolls 25 can be assembled and disassembled from the front side.

[0031] Conveying Department

[0032] The recording apparatus 11 includes a transport section 20 for transporting a recording medium 23 from a roll 25. The transport section 20 includes a feed section 21 that feeds the recording medium 23 while unwinding it from the roll 25, and multiple transport roller pairs 22 (see reference 25) that clamp and transport the fed recording medium 23. Figure 2 The recording apparatus 11 includes a support platform 28 for supporting the transported recording medium 23. The support platform 28 extends along the area opposite the recording head 32 when the carriage 31 moves in the scanning direction X. The area above the support platform 28 becomes the scanning area for the carriage 31 to move when the recording unit 30 records the recording medium 23 supported on the support platform 28. Furthermore, the area on the support platform 28 becomes the recording area for the recording head 32 to record on the recording medium 23.

[0033] The support platform 28 is a rectangular plate-shaped component extending in the width direction X within the housing 12. The recording medium 23, which is unwound and fed from the roll 25, is conveyed on the support platform 28 in the conveying direction Y after being conveyed within the housing 12 to the support platform 28.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the recording device 11 can house two roll bodies 25 side by side in the vertical direction Z in the storage section 15. The roll bodies 25 are constructed by winding the recording medium 23 to be recorded onto the core member 24.

[0035] The ends of the two roll bodies 25 are held by a first holding part 26 that holds one end of the roll body 25 and a second holding part 27 that holds the other end of the roll body 25. The roll body 25 is configured such that, while held by the first holding part 26 and the second holding part 27, it can be removed from the housing 12 through the opening 16.

[0036] The first retaining part 26 and the second retaining part 27 are mounted in a rotatable manner relative to the housing 12, with an axis extending in the width direction X as the rotation center. Thus, the roll body 25 is held so that it can rotate relative to the housing 12.

[0037] The roll body 25 is driven to rotate by a drive unit (not shown). This drive unit, driven by a drive motor (not shown), rotates the first holding part 26 and the second holding part 27 in the direction of feeding the recording medium 23 wound on the roll body 25. Furthermore, in actual recording, the recording medium 23 is fed from only one of the two roll bodies 25. When the recording medium 23 in one of the two roll bodies 25 is exhausted, printing can resume within a short interval by placing the recording medium 23 pulled from the other pre-prepared roll body 25.

[0038] like Figure 2 As shown, the recording medium 23 fed from the roll 25 travels along the... Figure 2 The recording medium 23 is fed to the conveyor roller pair 22 along a path indicated by a double-dotted line. Then, the multiple conveyor roller pairs 22 convey the recording medium 23 along a path passing over the support platform 28. The recording unit 30 records the recording medium 23 supported on the support platform 28, and the recorded recording medium 23 is cut off as needed and discharged from the discharge port 19. Furthermore, in the recording device 11, an operation unit 18 is provided on the upper wall 125 of the housing 12. The operation unit 18 is operated by the user when instructions are given to the recording device 11. The operation unit 18 includes at least one of an operation button and a touch panel type display.

[0039] Recording Department

[0040] like Figure 1 As shown, in the recording device 11, a recording unit 30 is provided inside the housing 12 at a position higher than the storage unit 15. The recording unit 30 includes a recording head 32 for recording a recording medium 23 that is conveyed in the transport direction Y, a carriage 31 on which the recording head 32 is mounted and moves (scans) in the scanning direction X that intersects the transport direction Y, and a guide member 50 for guiding the carriage 31 in a manner that allows it to move along the scanning direction X. The guide member 50 has a flat surface.

[0041] The carriage 31 is guided along the guide member 50. Furthermore, the carriage 31 is fixed to a portion of a jointless toothed belt 34 that is tensioned and extends along the guide member 50. The two ends of the toothed belt 34 in the scanning direction X are wound onto a pair of pulleys 33. One of the pulleys 33 is connected to the carriage motor 35 (see reference). Figure 3 The drive pulley is connected to the output shaft of the carriage 31, and the driven pulley is connected to the output shaft of the carriage 32. The carriage 31 is driven to move back and forth in the scanning direction X by the carriage motor 35. During the reciprocating movement of the carriage 31, ink or other liquids are ejected from the nozzle through the recording head 32, thereby recording onto the recording medium 23.

[0042] The guide member 50 supports the carriage 31 at a position slightly above the support platform 28. The guide member 50 is a member that extends along the scanning direction X. The guide member 50 supports the carriage 31 in a manner that allows it to move along the scanning direction X.

[0043] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, the carriage 31 mounts the recording head 32 at its lower part, which is positioned opposite the support platform 28. The carriage 31 is driven by the carriage motor 35 to move along the guide member 50, thereby causing the recording head 32 to reciprocate in the scanning direction X. While scanning in the width direction X, which intersects the transport direction Y of the recording medium 23, the recording head 32 sprays liquid onto the recording surface of the recording medium 23, which is parallel to the XY plane, to perform recording.

[0044] The recording medium 23 is guided to the discharge port 19. The portion recorded on the recording medium 23 can also be cut off by a cutting section (not shown). In this case, the cut recording medium 23 will be discharged from the discharge port 19.

[0045] Next, refer to Figure 3 The detailed structure of the recording unit 30 and the guide unit 50 will be explained.

[0046] like Figure 3As shown, the recording unit 30 includes a carriage 31 and a recording head 32 mounted on the carriage 31. The carriage 31 includes a carriage body 36 and a carriage support 37. The carriage body 36 supports the recording head 32, and the carriage support 37 is positioned behind the carriage body 36 and between the carriage body 36 and the guide member 50, engaging with the guide member 50 so that the carriage 31 can move in the scanning direction X. The guide member 50 may, for example, be a part of the main frame housed within the housing 12. In this case, the guide member 50 includes a frame body 51 and a track 52 for guiding the carriage 31. Alternatively, the guide member 50 may not be a structure that also serves as the main frame, but may be separately mounted within the housing 12 from the main frame.

[0047] Structure of the Recording Department

[0048] like Figure 3 As shown, the recording unit 30 includes a carriage 31 that is supported in a manner that allows it to move along the guide member 50 in the scanning direction X, and a recording head 32 mounted on the carriage 31.

[0049] The carriage support 37 has an upright mounting portion 37A extending in the vertical direction Z, and an extension portion 37B extending rearward (in the -Y direction) from the upper end of the upright mounting portion 37A.

[0050] A synchronous toothed belt 34 is fixed to the carriage support 37 via a belt fixing part 37C. Furthermore, a sensor for a linear encoder 38 is fixed to the carriage support 37. Also, in this example, a gear 39 is mounted on the carriage support 37. For example, when the carriage 31 moves to a predetermined position on the path in the scanning direction X, the gear 39 meshes with a drive gear, thereby inputting the rotational force of the drive gear into the carriage 31 via the gear 39. The predetermined drive mechanism of the carriage 31 is then activated.

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown, the carriage 31 has a sliding portion 61 that abuts against and slides against a track surface 53-55, which is an example of a flat surface of the guide member 50. In this embodiment, the sliding portion 61 is modularized as a sliding unit 60. Multiple sliding units 60 are detachably mounted on the carriage 31.

[0052] The plurality of sliding units 60 include a first sliding unit 60 that presses the sliding part 61 relative to the track surface in the +Z direction, a second sliding unit 60 that presses the sliding part 61 relative to the track surface in the -Y direction, and a third sliding unit 60 that presses the sliding part 61 relative to the track surface in the +Y direction.

[0053] The track section 52 has track surfaces 53 to 55 composed of flat surfaces that become sliding surfaces for the sliding section 61 on the side of the slide to slide when the carriage 31 moves in the scanning direction X. In this example, the track section 52 has a track surface 53 orthogonal to the vertical direction Z and track surfaces 54 and 55 orthogonal to the transport direction Y. Specifically, in... Figure 3 In the example shown, the track section 52 has a first track surface 53 formed by a flat surface orthogonal to the vertical direction Z and oriented towards the +Z direction, a second track surface 54 formed by a flat surface orthogonal to the conveying direction Y and oriented towards the +Y direction, and a third track surface 55 formed by a flat surface orthogonal to the conveying direction Y and oriented towards the -Y direction.

[0054] exist Figure 3 In the side view shown, when the sliding part 61 is pressed strongly against the first track surface 53 in the +Z direction, the slide 31 will tend to rotate counterclockwise, causing the other sliding parts 61 to easily float off the track surfaces 54 and 55. Furthermore, when the sliding part 61 is pressed strongly against the second track surface 54 in the -Y direction, the slide 31 will tend to rotate clockwise, causing the other sliding parts 61 to easily float off the track surfaces 53 and 55. Moreover, when the sliding part 61 is pressed strongly against the third track surface 55 in the +Y direction, the slide 31 will tend to rotate clockwise, causing the other sliding parts 61 to easily touch the track surface 53 excessively or to easily float off the track surface 54.

[0055] By pressing the sliding part 61 against the second track surface 54 in the -Y direction and against the third track surface 55 in the +Y direction, positional variation of the carriage 31 in the transport direction Y is suppressed. In other words, the carriage 31, guided by the guide member 50 and in motion, is positioned in the transport direction Y. Furthermore, by pressing the sliding part 61 against the first track surface 53 in the vertical direction Z (+Z direction), positional variation of the carriage 31 in the vertical direction Z is suppressed.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, the recording head 32 has a nozzle surface 32A that is parallel to the XY plane formed by the width direction X and the transport direction Y. That is, the recording head 32 has a nozzle surface 32A that is parallel to the recording surface of the recording medium 23 being transported in the transport direction Y on the support table 28.

[0057] Structure of the Recording Department

[0058] Figure 4 The carriage support 37 is shown with the guide member 50 removed. Figure 4As shown, the carriage 31 has multiple sliding portions 61. That is, the carriage 31 has multiple sliding portions 61 with different orientations, including sliding portions 61 facing the vertical direction Z, sliding portions 61 facing the -Y direction, and sliding portions 61 facing the +Y direction. These multiple sliding portions 61 with different orientations are all assembled on the carriage 31 as part of the sliding mechanism GS. The sliding mechanism GS includes a sliding unit 60 that is slidably assembled on the carriage 31. Moreover, by assembling the sliding unit 60 on the carriage 31, the sliding portions 61 are assembled at predetermined positions on the carriage 31 with predetermined orientations.

[0059] like Figure 4 As shown, assembly portions 41 to 43 are provided on the carriage support portion 37. Sliding units 60 having sliding portions 61 are assembled on the assembly portions 41 to 43, thereby assembling each sliding portion 61 relative to the carriage support portion 37 in a predetermined orientation.

[0060] The sliding unit 60 has a sliding portion 61 and a slider 62 (housing) assembled with the sliding portion 61 exposed. The sliding unit 60 is positioned in a predetermined position by sliding insertion relative to the assembled portions 41 to 43, and is fixed to the assembled portions 41 to 43 by screws 80 in the positioned state, thereby being held in the predetermined position.

[0061] The carriage 31 is equipped with multiple springs 81 and 82 that apply force to press multiple sliding parts 61 with different pressing directions against their respective corresponding track surfaces 53 to 55. That is, a first spring 81 that applies force in the transport direction Y and a second spring 82 that applies force in an oblique direction with components in both the scanning direction X and the vertical direction Z are tensioned on the carriage support 37. In addition, one or more springs may be provided for each type of sliding part 61 that is arranged in the same direction, so as to apply force to press the sliding part 61 against its respective corresponding track surface 53 to 55.

[0062] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, a sensor 38B is mounted at the rear of the carriage support 37 to optically read the linear scale 38A constituting the linear encoder 38. The sensor 38B outputs a detection signal including a number of pulses proportional to the movement distance of the carriage 31 in the scanning direction X. Furthermore, a belt fixing part 37C is provided at the rear of the carriage support 37 to fix the synchronous toothed belt 34. The synchronous toothed belt 34, fixed to the belt fixing part 37C, rotates forward or backward via the carriage motor 35, thereby enabling the carriage 31 to reciprocate in the scanning direction X.

[0063] like Figure 5 As shown, a recording head 32 is provided at the center of the bottom of the carriage 31. Within the recording head 32, a support platform 28 (see reference 28) is connected. Figure 2 The lower surface opposite the nozzle is a nozzle surface 32A with multiple nozzles (not shown). Multiple nozzles (not shown) are arranged on nozzle surface 32A to eject liquid for recording on recording medium 23. The multiple nozzles on nozzle surface 32A are arranged in a large number of rows at fixed intervals in one direction. The multiple nozzles constitute a nozzle array NA. The nozzle openings are arranged in the transport direction Y of recording medium 23, thus forming multiple nozzle arrays NA. The nozzles constituting a nozzle array NA eject the same type of liquid. The nozzles located upstream and downstream of the nozzles constituting a nozzle array NA are staggered in the width direction X. The multiple nozzle arrays NA are arranged in pairs, close together in the width direction X.

[0064] like Figure 6 As shown, the carriage support 37 has three assembly portions 41 to 43. Each of the three assembly portions 41 to 43 has an assembly surface 41A to 43A on which the sliding unit 60 is assembled. Each of the three assembly surfaces 41A to 43A has a different direction perpendicular to the plane. Specifically, the first assembly surface 41A is a surface facing in the +Z direction perpendicular to itself. The second assembly surface 42A is a surface facing in the -Y direction perpendicular to itself. The third assembly surface 43A is a surface facing in the +Y direction perpendicular to itself. The first assembly surface 41A and the second assembly surface 42A are formed on the lower part of the carriage support 37, and the third assembly surface 43A is formed on the upper part of the carriage support 37.

[0065] like Figure 6 As shown, a sliding unit 60 is detachably provided on each of the three assembly surfaces 41A to 43A, each facing a different type. In this embodiment, the sliding unit 60 is detachably mounted relative to the carriage 31. Specifically, as... Figure 7 As shown, the sliding unit 60 is mounted in a state where it can slide along the sliding portion 44 formed on the carriage 31. In this example, the sliding unit 60 can be mounted and dismounted relative to the sliding portion 44 by sliding it in the scanning direction X. Furthermore, the sliding unit 60 is fixed to the carriage 31 by screws 80 while mounted on the sliding portion 44, thereby preventing it from falling off in the scanning direction X.

[0066] like Figure 7 , Figure 8As shown, the sliding unit 60 has a slider 62, which is equipped with a sliding part 61, an impregnating part 63, and a pressing part 64. The slider 62 is arranged in a detachable manner relative to the carriage 31. In the event of wear of the sliding part 61, the problem can be solved by replacing each slider 62 in the sliding unit 60, and it is easy to replenish the lubricant GR and replace the impregnating part 63.

[0067] like Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown, the slider 62 is inserted into the sliding part 44 from the scanning direction X and fixed from the scanning direction X by the screw 80. The slider 62 has a holding part 62B. The holding part 62B has a hole 621 (see reference). Figure 9 Hole 621 is used, for example, when hooking onto a clamp to remove the slider 62. Furthermore, the gripping part 62B has an anti-slip part 622 (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0068] Multiple sliding units 60 are assembled on the carriage 31. Multiple sliders 62, each of the same shape, are provided on the carriage 31. A common slider 62 can also be used among multiple sliding portions 61 facing different directions that press against the track surfaces 53-55. In this case, the manufacturing cost of the carriage 31 is reduced by standardizing the components of the slider 62. Furthermore, a common sliding unit 60 can also be used among the same multiple sliding portions 61. In this case, the manufacturing cost of the carriage 31 is further reduced by standardizing the components of the sliding unit 60.

[0069] like Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown, the carriage 31 includes a sliding portion 61 and an impregnated member 63 impregnated with lubricant GR. The lubricant GR includes grease. Furthermore, the carriage 31 has a reservoir 65 for storing the lubricant GR supplied to the impregnated member 63. In this embodiment, the sliding portion 61, the impregnated member 63, and the reservoir 65 are configured as a single sliding unit 60. The sliding portion 61 can be replaced for each sliding unit 60.

[0070] like Figure 7 , Figure 8As shown, the carriage 31 includes an impregnation member 63 that is impregnated with lubricant GR in at least one direction of the scanning direction X of the sliding portion 61, and a pressing member 64 that presses the impregnation member 63 toward the guide member 50 from the side opposite to the guide member 50 relative to the impregnation member 63. In this embodiment, the carriage 31 has impregnation members 63 impregnated with lubricant GR on both sides of the sliding portion 61 in the scanning direction X. The impregnation members 63 on both sides are pressed toward the guide member 50 from the side opposite to the guide member 50 by the pressing member 64. The impregnation member 63 impregnated with lubricant GR is, for example, a felt material impregnated with lubricant GR. The lubricant GR is, for example, a grease. Grease is an oil that is semi-fluid at room temperature. The lubricant GR can be an oil that is liquid at room temperature, or a mixture containing grease and oil. Furthermore, the placement and number of the impregnated parts 63 may not be on either side of the sliding part 61 in the scanning direction X, but in any direction. In this example, the impregnated parts 63 may also be made of felt material impregnated with lubricant GR.

[0071] The pressing force of the pressing member 64 is less than the pressing force applied by the carriage 31 to the guide member 50. Here, the pressing force applied by the carriage 31 to the guide member 50 is defined as the first pressing force F, and the pressing force of the pressing member 64 is defined as the second pressing force f. The first pressing force F, which presses the carriage 31 against the track surfaces 53-55, refers to the pressing force based on the weight of the recording unit 30, the force exerted by the springs 81, 82, etc., and the torque generated by their weight and the force exerted. The pressing member 64 is, for example, a spring. When the pressing member 64 is a spring, for example, it can be such as Figure 7 , Figure 8 The leaf spring shown can also be a helical spring capable of applying force to the impregnated part 63.

[0072] The pressing force of the pressing member 64 can also be less than half of the pressing force applied by the carriage 31 to the guide member 50. For example, the second pressing force f of the pressing member 64 can also be less than 1 / 20 to 1 / 2 of the first pressing force F applied by the carriage 31 to the guide member 50. The second pressing force f of the pressing member 64 is quite small compared to the first pressing force F, for example, it can also be less than 1 / 20 to 1 / 5 of the first pressing force F. The second pressing force f of the pressing member 64 can also be set to about 1 / 10 of the first pressing force F, for example.

[0073] By setting the second pressing force f of the pressing member 64 to a value less than the first pressing force F, it is easy to prevent the carriage 31 from becoming unstable, such as floating relative to the guide member 50. Furthermore, it is easy to prevent excessive discharge of lubricant GR due to excessive and forceful pressing of the impregnated member 63.

[0074] In this embodiment, the sliding units 60 are disposed at multiple locations on the carriage 31. When the pressing member 64 is a common component among the multiple sliding units 60, the force applied by the pressing member 64 is less than the minimum load among the loads applied from the carriage 31 to the track surfaces 53-55. On the other hand, when the force applied by the pressing member 64 is changed to different pressing forces at each location of the multiple sliding units 60, the pressing force f of each pressing member 64 is less than the load applied to the carriage 31. Even if the loads on the carriage 31 borne in the sliding mechanism GS are different, it is sufficient as long as the pressing force of each pressing member 64 is less than the minimum load from the carriage 31.

[0075] Here, when the pressing member 64 presses the impregnated member 63 onto the track surfaces 53-55 with excessive force, the carriage 31 rotates due to the excessive force, causing it to deviate from its proper posture. Consequently, other sliding parts 61 may float relative to the track surfaces 53-55 and cease to make contact. Furthermore, when the pressing member 64 presses the impregnated member 63 forcefully onto the track surfaces 53-55 with excessive force, the lubricant GR impregnated in the impregnated member 63 will excessively seep out. This results in premature lubricant depletion, increasing the sliding load on the sliding parts 61 relative to the track surfaces 53-55, and thus impairing the durability of the carriage 31. On the other hand, when the sliding parts 61 are not in contact with the track surfaces 53-55, the lubricant GR cannot be supplied to the sliding parts 61. In this case, the sliding load of the sliding part 61 relative to the track surface 53-55 will also increase, thereby impairing the durability of the carriage 31.

[0076] In particular, when the impregnated part 63 is made of a material such as cloth or fiber that easily absorbs liquid lubricant GR, it is difficult to manage the contact pressure between the sliding part 61 and the track surfaces 53-55 due to the susceptibility to humidity. Furthermore, the pressing part 64, which presses the impregnated part 63 towards the guide part 50 from the side opposite to the guide part 50, can be any part that allows pressing; it can be a spring such as a leaf spring, or a thin sheet or film made of elastic synthetic resin.

[0077] The pressing member 64 presses down on almost the entire area of ​​the impregnation member 63 in the direction intersecting the scanning direction X. In this example, where the impregnation member 63 is made of a flexible felt material, the impregnation member 63 can also be pressed down from the back by the linearly extending portion (top portion) of the pressing member 64, which is made of a leaf spring, in the direction intersecting the scanning direction X. This causes almost the entire area of ​​the impregnation member 63 in the direction intersecting the scanning direction X to come into contact with the guide member 50.

[0078] In this way, the sliding unit 60 can also have a structure that pushes out the impregnated member 63 made of felt material with a fixed force. The structure is such that the impregnated member 63, supplied with lubricant GR, is positioned near the front and rear of the carriage 31 relative to the sliding part 61 in its scanning direction X, and the impregnated member 63 is pressed against the track surfaces 53-55 of the guide member 50. Specifically, a pressing member 64 with weaker elastic force is placed against the center portion of the impregnated member 63 made of felt material on the side opposite to the track surfaces 53-55, thereby pressing the impregnated member 63 using the weaker elastic force of the pressing member 64.

[0079] For example, when the guide member 50 is a cylindrical guide shaft, since the sliding part, which is arranged to surround the guide shaft inserted into the carriage side, makes a strong contact in one direction, the contact on the opposite side becomes weaker. Therefore, the carriage and the guide shaft are adjusted to a position where proper contact occurs. In contrast, in the structure of this embodiment where the guide member 50 is a guide rail, when the sliding part 61 shifts position relative to the rail surfaces 53-55 in a direction orthogonal to them, it results in excessively strong contact or poor contact. Therefore, managing the contact pressure between the sliding part 61 and the rail surfaces 53-55 becomes important.

[0080] In this embodiment, by pressing the member 64, force is applied to the impregnation member 63 in the same direction as the load exerted by the carriage 31 on the track surfaces 53-55, such as the weight of the carriage 31, the spring force, and the torque of the spring force. Therefore, situations where the contact between the multiple sliding parts 61 on the sliding surfaces (track surfaces) becomes excessively intense or results in poor contact are avoided. The force applied by the pressing member 64 to the impregnation member 63 can also be set to be relatively small compared to the load exerted by the carriage 31 on the track surfaces 53-55.

[0081] In this embodiment, the felt material constituting the impregnation member 63 is pushed out from the back side by the pressing member 64. Since the force (spring force) applied by the pressing member 64 can be managed, the impregnation member 63 made of felt material can be guaranteed to contact the track surfaces 53-55, thereby preventing excessive force from pushing the impregnation member 63 (e.g., the felt material) against at least one of the track surfaces 53-55, thus preventing the carriage 31 from rotating from its normal position. Therefore, the sliding part 61 of the carriage 31 will not float off the track surfaces 53-55.

[0082] The sliding unit 60 has a structure to prevent the immersion member 63 from falling off. On the surface of the slider 62 opposite to the surface facing the guide member 50, there is a holding portion 78 for holding the immersion member 63, and an opening 72A formed in the holding portion 78 at a position opposite to the guide member 50. Two opposing edges of the outer periphery of the immersion member 63 in the scanning direction X are supported by the outer edge of the opening 72A. The central portion of the immersion member 63 in the scanning direction X is pressed by the pressing member 64 and abuts against the guide member 50.

[0083] like Figure 8 As shown, the retaining portion 78 covers the periphery of the impregnated member 63 from the track surface 53 (54, 55) side, thereby holding the impregnated member 63 on the slider 62. The impregnated member 63 is pressed against the center from the back by the pressing member 64, thereby protruding from the opening 72A towards the track surface 53 (54, 55) side. In this embodiment, the retaining portion 78 formed on the slider 62 covers the periphery of the impregnated member 63 from the track surface 53 (54, 55) side. This prevents the impregnated member 63 from falling off the slider 62.

[0084] Since the resistance would increase if the sliding part 61 simply slids on the track surfaces 53-55, an impregnation member 63 for supplying lubricant GR is provided. The impregnation member 63 is, for example, a felt material impregnated with lubricating grease as lubricant GR, and is pressed against the track surfaces 53-55 with a predetermined pressing force generated by the pressing member 64, thereby causing the lubricant GR to seep out and be supplied to the track surfaces 53-55.

[0085] like Figure 8 As shown, the carriage 31 may also have a storage portion 65. In this embodiment, the sliding unit 60 has a storage portion 65. This is because if only the lubricant GR impregnated in the felt material is used, the lubricant GR is insufficient relative to the service life of the recording device 11. The storage portion 65 is located next to the impregnation member 63 in the scanning direction X. The storage portion 65 has a receiving recess 73 recessed in the slider 62 in a manner that allows the lubricant GR to be stored (see reference). Figure 9 The lubricant GR is housed in the receiving recess 73, and the groove 75 connects the receiving recess 73 and the receiving space housing the impregnated component 63 (see reference). Figure 9 When the lubricant GR of the felt material is consumed, the liquid lubricant GR will be supplied from the reservoir 65 through the groove 75 to the impregnation member 63 due to capillary action and other factors. In this way, the lubricant GR in the reservoir 65 is supplied to the impregnation member 63, thereby allowing the lubricant GR to be further supplied from the impregnation member 63 to the track surfaces 53-55.

[0086] like Figure 8 As shown, the sliding mechanism GS has a self-aligning mechanism AS, which is such that even if the track surfaces 53-55 (the sliding surfaces) have undulations or other bends, its abutment portion 61A can follow the track surfaces 53-55. The sliding unit 60 and the sliding portion 61 are separate units and are configured to swing relative to the slider at least around an axis parallel to the direction intersecting the scanning direction X.

[0087] The sliding part 61 has an abutting part 61A and a protrusion 61B. The abutting part 61A abuts against the guide member 50 at a predetermined length in the direction along the scanning direction X, and the protrusion 61B abuts against the carriage 31 at the back of the abutting part 61A at the middle position in the scanning direction X.

[0088] Since the back surface of the sliding part 61 is convex, the protrusion 61B formed on the back surface of the sliding part 61 makes point contact or line contact with the frame surface 44A of the carriage 31. The protrusion 61B of the sliding part 61 may also be formed as a convex spherical surface (see reference). Figure 10 If it is a convex spherical surface, it can also swing relative to the slider 62 around an axis parallel to the scanning direction X.

[0089] Therefore, the sliding part 61 can use the point contact portion or line contact portion of the protrusion 61B as the fulcrum C (see reference). Figure 13 , Figure 14 The slide 61 swings as it moves. Therefore, even if the track surfaces 53-55 (the sliding surfaces) bend, the contact portion 61A can follow the track surfaces 53-55 while maintaining a relatively wide contact area with them. Thus, by reliably contacting the contact portion of the slide 61 with the track surfaces 53-55, the carriage's posture is stabilized.

[0090] like Figure 8 , Figure 9 As shown, the sliding portion 61 has a recess 61C at its center in the scanning direction X that does not abut against the guide member 50. In other words, the abutment portion 61A is divided into two parts in the scanning direction X by the recess 61C. This allows for stabilizing the posture by increasing the distance of the abutment portion 61A in the scanning direction X, while reducing the contact area and thus reducing the sliding resistance of the carriage 31.

[0091] Next, refer to Figure 9 , Figure 10 The detailed structure of the sliding unit 60 will be explained below. Additionally, in Figures 9 to 12In this design, the long side direction of the sliding unit 60 is designated as Dx, the short side direction as Dy, and the thickness direction as Dz. For example, in a sliding unit 60 installed along the track surface 53, the long side direction Dx is aligned with the scanning direction X, the short side direction Dy is aligned with the conveying direction Y, and the thickness direction Dz is aligned with the vertical direction Z.

[0092] like Figure 9 As shown, a sliding part 61 is assembled on the first surface of the sliding unit 60 at the center of the long side direction Dx. The abutting part 61A of the sliding part 61 is divided into two parts on both sides by a recess 61C formed at the center of the long side direction Dx.

[0093] like Figure 9 As shown, with the peripheral portions on both sides of the impregnated member 63 held by the holding portions 78 in the scanning direction X, the central portion of its back surface is pressed by the top end of the pressing member 64. The sliding unit 60 has a storage portion 65 for storing lubricant GR at a position parallel to the holding portion 78 in the scanning direction X. A groove 75 is provided between the storage portion 65 and the holding portion 78, which guides the lubricant GR from the storage portion 65 to the impregnated member 63 held by the holding portion 78.

[0094] The sliding unit 60 has a gripping portion 62B extending in the scanning direction X at one end of its long side direction Dx. A hole 621 and an anti-slip portion 622 are formed on the gripping portion 62B.

[0095] Furthermore, in the sliding unit 60, a locking portion 62C extends from the top end portion on the side opposite to the holding portion 62B in the scanning direction X. When the sliding unit 60 slides the sliding portion 44 and is inserted to the end position, the locking portion 62C is inserted into the hole 45 on the carriage 31 side (see reference). Figure 7 , Figure 8 This allows the top end to be positioned. Furthermore, the sliding unit 60 has a support portion 62D extending in the thickness direction Dz, which intersects the direction extending from the holding portion 62B, onto a surface opposite to the first surface, i.e., the second surface. The support portion 62D has a screw insertion hole 623 formed in the shaft portion through which the screw 80 can be inserted.

[0096] like Figure 10 As shown, a protrusion 61B with a convex spherical surface is formed on the back side of the central portion of the sliding portion 61 in the scanning direction X. When the sliding unit 60 is inserted into the sliding portion 44, this protrusion 61B, through its convex spherical surface, interacts with the frame surface 44A (refer to the bottom surface of the sliding portion 44). Figure 8The frame surface 44A is flat. The protrusion 61B makes point contact with the frame surface 44A through a convex spherical surface, and can swing the sliding part 61 with the point of contact as the fulcrum. In the slider 62, a recess 74 is provided in the long side direction Dx at a position adjacent to the receiving hole 72. The recess 74 functions as a mounting part for the base 64A on which the pressing member 64 is mounted. With the base 64A mounted in the recess 74, the top part 64B of the pressing member 64 presses the impregnated member 63 from the back side. In addition, in this example, the recess 74 is provided in the slider 62 on the side opposite to the surface where the receiving recess 73 is provided, at a position opposite to the receiving recess 73.

[0097] Next, refer to Figure 11 , Figure 12 The detailed structure of slider 62 will now be explained.

[0098] like Figure 11 As shown, the slider 62 has the following on its slider body 62A: a receiving hole 71 for receiving the sliding part 61, a receiving hole 72 having an opening 72A for exposing the impregnating member 63, and a receiving recess 73 for storing the lubricant GR. The slider 62 has multiple limiting portions 76 and multiple protrusions 77 on the inner wall surface of the receiving hole 71 for receiving the sliding part 61. The multiple limiting portions 76 are assembled with the sliding part 61 within the receiving hole 71 of the slider 62 (see reference). Figure 9 In the state of sliding part 61, both ends of the sliding part 61 in the long side direction Dx can be directed towards the track surface 53 (54, 55) in the thickness direction Dz (refer to...). Figure 14 The range of displacement on the side is limited. Furthermore, the multiple protrusions 77 function as stops for the sliding portion 61 assembled in the receiving hole 71 of the slider 62. Moreover, the multiple limiting portions 76 and the multiple protrusions 77 define the point contact portion of the protrusion 61B as the fulcrum C (see reference). Figure 14 The amount of swing of the sliding part 61. Furthermore, as... Figure 11 As shown, a groove 75 is formed between the receiving hole 72 and the receiving recess 73, connecting the receiving hole 72 and the receiving recess 73. The slider 62 has a gripping portion 62B and a locking portion 62C, as described above, at both ends in the long side direction Dx. Furthermore, the slider 62 has a support portion 62D, which extends from the base of the gripping portion 62B in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the gripping portion 62B and is formed with a screw insertion hole 623.

[0099] Next, the function of the recording device 11 will be explained.

[0100] Since the impregnation components 63 are disposed on both sides of the sliding portion 61 in the scanning direction X, the lubricant GR is supplied to the track surfaces 53-55. For example, in Figure 8 In the process of the carriage 31 moving forward in the +X direction, from the downstream side located in its forward direction (in Figure 8 Lubricant GR is supplied to the track surface 53 in the impregnation member 63 (left side in the middle). Then, the sliding part 61 slides on the track surface 53 (54, 55) on which the lubricant GR is supplied, thereby supplying lubricant GR between the track surface 53 (54, 55) and the sliding part 61.

[0101] In addition, Figure 8 During the return movement of the carriage 31 in the -X direction, from the downstream side located in the forward direction (in Figure 8 In the right-hand side (center), lubricant GR is supplied to the track surfaces 53 (54, 55) via the impregnation member 63. Then, the sliding part 61 slides on the track surfaces 53 (54, 55) where the lubricant GR has been supplied, thereby supplying lubricant GR between the track surfaces 53 (54, 55) and the sliding part 61. In this way, in this embodiment, since the impregnation member 63 is positioned on both sides of the sliding part 61 in the scanning direction X, lubricant GR can be reliably supplied to the track surfaces 53 during both the forward and return movements of the carriage 31. This is also true when the sliding part 61 of the sliding mechanism GS slides on other track surfaces 54, 55.

[0102] Furthermore, the impregnated member 63 is pressed toward the guide member 50 from the side opposite to the side facing the guide member 50 by the pressing member 64. Therefore, even if the carriage 31 deviates from the proper posture, the impregnated member 63 is difficult to lift off the track surface 53 formed by the flat surface of the guide member 50 because it is pressed by the pressing member 64. Therefore, since the impregnated member 63 can reliably slide with the track surface 53 (54, 55), the lubricant GR is reliably supplied to the track surface 53 (54, 55).

[0103] Furthermore, the load on the recording unit 30, formed by the weight of the recording unit 30 itself, the force exerted by the springs 81 and 82 that press the sliding part 61 against the track surfaces 53-55, and the torque generated by the carriage 31 tending to rotate due to these weights and forces, is applied to the track surfaces 53-55 via the sliding part 61. When the pressing force of the pressing member 64 is set to be less than the load on the recording unit 30, especially less than half the load, it is possible to avoid a situation where the load applied to the track surfaces 53-55 of the recording unit 30 becomes too large due to the pressing force of the pressing member 64, causing the carriage 31 to tend to rotate and deviate from its posture, thereby causing other sliding parts 61 to float off the track surfaces 53-55. In other words, each sliding part 61 abuts against the track surfaces 53-55 with an appropriate abutting force. As a result, the carriage 31 maintains a relatively stable posture during recording as it reciprocates in the scanning direction X. Furthermore, because the lubricant GR is reliably supplied, it is possible to avoid situations where insufficient lubricant GR increases the sliding resistance between the sliding part 61 and the track surfaces 53-55, thereby increasing the load on the carriage 31 as it moves along the guide member 50 in the scanning direction X. Therefore, for example, the carriage 31 can move with a stable posture and a stable speed. Consequently, recording can be performed on the recording medium 23 with high recording accuracy.

[0104] Furthermore, the sliding unit 60 includes a self-aligning mechanism AS, which is a mechanism that allows the sliding part 61 to follow the curved track surface 53-55 even if the track surface 53-55 has undulations or other curvatures. For example, as Figure 13 As shown, when the carriage 31 moves along the flat track surface 53 (54, 55), the sliding part 61 is held in a stable position with the abutment part 61A parallel to the track surface, and slides by abutting the track surface 53 (54, 55) together through the two abutment parts 61A.

[0105] In addition, such as Figure 14 As shown, when the track surface 53 (54, 55) has undulations or other curvatures, the sliding part 61 will swing in a manner that follows the track surface 53 (54, 55) with the fulcrum C as the center. That is, as Figure 14 As shown by the solid line, the sliding part 61 follows the track surface 53 (54, 55) by rotating clockwise around the fulcrum C. Furthermore, as... Figure 14 As shown by the double-dotted line, the sliding part 61 follows the track surface 53 (54, 55) by rotating counterclockwise around the fulcrum C. Even if the track surface 53 (54, 55) has undulations or other curvatures, the posture of the moving carriage 31 is relatively stable.

[0106] Furthermore, for the sliding part 61, until it is in a state of... Figure 13 The sliding part 61 is ensured to swing as much as possible around the fulcrum C by engaging multiple protrusions 77 located slightly away from its back side when in a stable posture. Furthermore, when the sliding unit 60 is removed from the carriage 31, the sliding part 61 has an anti-detachment function that prevents it from falling off the slider 62 by engaging with the multiple protrusions 77. As a result, the sliding part 61 can be supported in a swingable manner, and anti-detachment is achieved when the sliding unit 60 is removed.

[0107] In addition, such as Figure 15 As shown, the lubricant GR stored in the reservoir 65 is replenished in the impregnated part 63 via the groove 75. Therefore, it is less likely that the lubricant GR in the impregnated part 63 will be insufficient. Furthermore, the sliding unit 60 can be replaced less frequently during the service life of the recording device 11.

[0108] Furthermore, the immersion member 63 is pressed towards the track surfaces 53 (54, 55) by the pressing member 64. In the pressing member 64, its base 64A is installed in the recess 74, and its top end 64B presses against approximately the center of the scanning direction X in the immersion member 63. When the immersion member 63 is to be separated from the track surfaces 53 (54, 55), the pressing force of the pressing member 64 increases the amount of protrusion of the immersion member 63 from the opening 72A, thereby allowing it to follow the track surfaces 53 (54, 55) while still being pressed. Therefore, even if it is assumed that the carriage 31 tends to rotate due to the bending of the track surfaces 53 (54, 55) or excessive load applied to the track surfaces 53 of the recording unit 30, causing other sliding parts to float on other track surfaces 54, 55, the immersion member 63 can be kept in contact with the track surfaces 53 (54, 55).

[0109] Furthermore, in the impregnation member 63, the peripheral portions of the two opposing sides in the scanning direction X are held by the holding portion 78, which is inclined in a direction that is closer to the track surface 53 (54, 55) the closer it is to the opening 72A. Therefore, the impregnation member 63, whose back center portion is pressed by the pressing member 64, can bulge out of the opening 72A in a curved manner. For example, if the cross-section of the holding portion 78 is rectangular, a bend is created in the impregnation member 63 by utilizing the corners of the rectangular cross-section of the holding portion 78. At the periphery of this bend, for example, the fibers of the felt material become denser, which may make it difficult for the lubricant GR to penetrate.

[0110] Furthermore, even with openings 72A of the same size, it is possible to ensure a relatively wide projected area when the portion of the immersion member 63 protruding from the opening 72A is projected onto the opposing track surfaces 53-55. That is, while maintaining the same opening size for the openings 72A, it is possible to ensure a relatively wide contact area between the immersion member 63 and the track surfaces 53-55.

[0111] Maintenance such as replenishing the lubricant GR to the reservoir 65 or replacing the sliding part 61 is performed by removing the sliding unit 60 from the carriage 31. Since the sliding unit 60 is equipped with the sliding part 61, the impregnating part 63, and the pressing part 64, if the sliding unit 60 is removed from the carriage 31, the sliding part 61, the impregnating part 63, and the pressing part 64 can be removed all at once.

[0112] like Figure 16 As shown, first, loosen and remove the screw 80. Next, holding the grip 62B, slide the sliding unit 60 in the removal direction in the scanning direction X to remove it from the carriage 31. Alternatively, a tool or wire can be used to hook the hole 621 formed in the grip 62B and pull it out. For example, even in narrow spaces inaccessible to the operator's hands, the sliding unit 60 can be removed from the carriage 31 using a tool or wire. Then, during maintenance, maintain the sliding part 61 or the impregnated part of the sliding unit 60, or add lubricant GR to the reservoir 65. Furthermore, if the sliding unit 60 is to be replaced, prepare a new sliding unit 60.

[0113] Then, the replaced sliding unit 60 is slid along the sliding portion 44 in the scanning direction X to be installed on the carriage 31. After installation on the carriage 31, the screws 80 are tightened into the screw holes 46 on the side of the carriage 31 using a screwdriver or similar tool (see reference). Figure 7 ).

[0114] According to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0115] (1) The recording device 11 includes: a recording head 32, which performs recording on a recording medium 23 being transported in the transport direction D; a carriage 31, which carries the recording head 32 and performs scanning in a scanning direction X intersecting the transport direction D; and a guide member 50, which has a track surface 53-55 as an example of a flat surface guiding the carriage 31 in the scanning direction X. The carriage 31 includes: a sliding portion 61, which abuts against and slides against the guide member 50; an impregnation member 63, which impregnates at least one side of the sliding portion 61 in the scanning direction X with a lubricant GR; and a pressing member 64, which presses the impregnation member 63 toward the guide member 50 from a surface opposite to the guide member 50 relative to the impregnation member 63. According to this structure, since the impregnation member 63 is pressed toward the guide member 50 by the pressing member 64, the separation of the impregnation member 63 from the guide member 50 is suppressed. Therefore, compared to a structure without the pressing member 64, the lubricant GR is supplied more reliably to the track surfaces 53-55 of the guide member 50, which slides from the impregnated member 63 to the sliding portion 61. This prevents the slide carriage 31 from experiencing increased sliding resistance due to delays in the supply of lubricant GR to the guide member 50.

[0116] (2) The pressing force of the pressing member 64 is less than the pressing force of the carriage 31 on the guide member 50. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the carriage 31 from deviating from the proper posture due to the pressing force of the pressing member 64.

[0117] (3) The pressing force of the pressing member 64 is less than half of the pressing force applied by the carriage 31 to the guide member 50. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the carriage 31 from floating up and becoming unstable. In addition, it is possible to prevent the sliding part 61 and the impregnating member 63 from strongly contacting the guide member 50, thereby preventing excessive discharge of the lubricant GR from the impregnating member 63.

[0118] (4) The recording device 11 has a slider 62 that mounts a sliding part 61, an immersion part 63, and a pressing part 64. The slider 62 is detachably mounted relative to the carriage 31. Therefore, if the sliding part 61 wears out, the problem can be solved simply by replacing the slider 62. In addition, it is easy to replenish the lubricant GR and replace the immersion part 63.

[0119] (5) A plurality of sliders 62 are provided on the carriage 31, and the plurality of sliders 62 are of the same shape. Therefore, by making the components of the plurality of sliders 62 common, the manufacturing cost of the recording device 11 can be reduced.

[0120] (6) The slider 62 and the sliding part 61 are separate components. The sliding part 61 is configured to swing relative to the slider 62 with respect to an axis at least parallel to the direction intersecting the scanning direction X. According to this structure, even if the sliding surface of the guide member 50 bends, the sliding part 61 can follow the bend and change its posture accordingly. Therefore, when the carriage 31 moves in the scanning direction X, the abutting part 61A of the sliding part 61 can reliably abut against the guide member 50. Thus, the carriage 31 can be maintained in a stable posture.

[0121] (7) The sliding portion 61 includes an abutment portion 61A and a protrusion portion 61B. The abutment portion 61A abuts against the guide member 50 for a predetermined length in the direction along the scanning direction X. The protrusion portion 61B has a convex curved surface at the back of the abutment portion 61A at a midpoint in the scanning direction X, which abuts against the carriage 31. According to this structure, the sliding portion 61 can be supported in a simple and oscillating manner. Therefore, a guide structure that guides the carriage 31 in a movable manner in the scanning direction X via the guide member 50 can be realized with a simple structure.

[0122] (8) The abutment portion 61A of the sliding portion 61 has a recess 61C at its center in the scanning direction X, which does not abut against the guide member 50. According to this structure, the abutment portion 61A of the sliding portion 61 is divided into multiple regions in the scanning direction X by the recess. Therefore, while increasing the distance of the abutment portion 61A of the sliding portion 61 in the scanning direction X to stabilize its posture, the contact area can be reduced, thereby reducing the sliding resistance of the carriage 31.

[0123] (9) The immersion member 63 is disposed on both sides of the sliding part 61 in the scanning direction X. According to this structure, lubricant GR can be supplied from the immersion member 63 to the space between the sliding part 61 and the guide member 50 during both the forward movement and the return movement of the carriage 31.

[0124] (10) The slider 62 has: a holding portion 78, which is provided on a surface opposite to the guide member 50 and holds the immersion member 63; and an opening 72A, which is formed in the holding portion 78 at a position opposite to the guide member 50. The two opposite sides of the outer periphery of the immersion member 63 in the scanning direction X are supported on the outer edge of the opening 72A, and the central portion of the immersion member 63 in the scanning direction X is pressed by the pressing member 64 to abut against the guide member 50. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the immersion member 63 from falling off the slider 62.

[0125] (11) The pressing member 64 presses the immersion member 63 using a portion that extends linearly in the direction intersecting the scanning direction X. Therefore, the entire width region or nearly the entire width region of the immersion member 63 in the direction intersecting the scanning direction X can come into contact with the guide member 50.

[0126] (12) A reservoir 65 for storing lubricant GR is provided at a position parallel to the holding portion 78 in the scanning direction X. Between the reservoir 65 and the holding portion 78, a groove 75 is provided to guide the lubricant GR from the reservoir 65 to the impregnation member 63 held by the holding portion 78. Therefore, lubricant GR can be supplied from the reservoir 65 to the impregnation member 63. Compared with a structure without the reservoir 65, the carriage 31 can be moved stably for a long time without a large load, even without replenishing the lubricant GR.

[0127] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments can also be modified in the manner shown in the following modified examples. Moreover, a further modified example can be obtained by appropriately combining the above-described embodiments and the modified examples shown below, and a further modified example can be obtained by appropriately combining the modified examples shown below with each other.

[0128] The pressing force (second pressing force) of the pressing member 64 can be less than the pressing force (first pressing force) applied by the carriage 31 to the guide member 50, or it can be greater than half of the second pressing force.

[0129] • The reservoir 65 may also be disposed on the upper side of the impregnation member 63. Alternatively, the reservoir 65 may also be disposed on the upper side of the sliding member 61.

[0130] • Storage section 65 may also be omitted.

[0131] The protrusion 61B of the sliding part 61 has a convex curved surface, which may not be a convex spherical surface, but a semi-cylindrical shape. In this case, the arc surface (convex curved surface) of the semi-cylindrical part abuts against the frame surface 44A on the side of the carriage 31.

[0132] • The sliding part 61 can also be fixed relative to the slider 62 in a way that prevents it from swinging.

[0133] • The sliding direction can also replace the scanning direction X and be set as the transport direction Y.

[0134] The sliding unit 60 can also replace the sliding method, thus adopting a structure that is detachable in a direction orthogonal to the plane on the side of the carriage 31.

[0135] Although the sliding unit 60 is assembled on the carriage 31 with multiple sliding parts 61 facing in three directions, the multiple sliding parts 61 can also face in two directions. For example, the multiple sliding parts 61 can be arranged on the carriage 31 facing both the +Z and -Y directions. Furthermore, the multiple sliding parts 61 can also be arranged on the carriage 31 facing both the +Z and +Y directions. Additionally, a structure can be adopted in which the sliding parts facing only one direction slide on the guide member 50.

[0136] The multiple sliders 62 may not all be common components. Alternatively, only a portion of the multiple sliders 62 may be common components.

[0137] • The guide component 50 can also be separated from the main frame.

[0138] • Alternatively, a spring can be provided to apply force to the sliding part 61 in the vertical direction Z relative to the track surface 53.

[0139] Alternatively, only two of the sliding part 61, the impregnation part 63, and the storage part may be integrally assembled on the carriage 31. For example, the impregnation part 63 and the storage part 65 may be integrally formed, and they may be separate from the sliding part 61.

[0140] Alternatively, a structure can be adopted in which the sliding part 61, the immersion part 63 and the storage part are respectively assembled on the carriage 31.

[0141] The technical ideas and effects learned based on the aforementioned implementation methods and modifications will be described below.

[0142] (A) A recording device includes: a recording head that records on a recording medium being conveyed in a conveying direction; a carriage that carries the recording head and scans in a scanning direction intersecting the conveying direction; a guide member having a flat surface that guides the carriage in the scanning direction, the carriage including: a sliding portion that abuts against and slides against the guide member; an impregnation member that impregnates at least one side of the sliding portion in the scanning direction with a lubricant; and a pressing member that presses the impregnation member toward the guide member from a surface opposite to the impregnation member.

[0143] According to this structure, since the impregnating member is pressed towards the guide member by the pressing member, separation between the impregnating member and the guide member is suppressed. Therefore, lubricant can be supplied more reliably from the impregnating member to the surface of the guide member on which the sliding part slides. The situation where the sliding resistance of the carriage increases due to a delay in the supply of lubricant to the guide member can be suppressed.

[0144] (B) In the above-described recording device, the pressing force of the pressing member is less than the pressing force applied by the carriage to the guide member.

[0145] According to this structure, since the pressing force of the pressing component is less than the pressing force applied by the carriage to the guide component, it is possible to suppress the carriage from deviating from its proper posture due to the pressing force of the pressing component.

[0146] (C) In the above-described recording device, the pressing force of the pressing member is less than half of the pressing force applied by the carriage to the guide member.

[0147] This structure prevents the carriage from becoming unstable, such as by floating. Furthermore, it prevents excessive discharge of lubricant from the impregnated parts due to strong contact between the sliding part, the impregnated part, and the guide part.

[0148] (D) In ​​the above-described recording device, a slider that carries the sliding part, the immersion member and the pressing member may also be used, wherein the slider is detachably mounted relative to the carriage.

[0149] Based on this structure, if the sliding part wears out, the problem can be solved simply by replacing the slider. Replenishing the lubricant and replacing the impregnated parts are also relatively easy.

[0150] (E) In the above-mentioned recording device, a plurality of sliders of the same shape may also be provided on the carriage.

[0151] According to this structure, by making the components of multiple sliders common, the manufacturing cost of the recording device can be reduced.

[0152] (F) In the above-described recording device, the slider and the sliding part are also configured to be separate, and the sliding part is configured to be able to swing relative to the slider at least around an axis that is parallel to the direction intersecting the scanning direction.

[0153] According to this structure, even if the sliding surface of the guide member bends, the sliding part can follow the bend and change its posture accordingly. Therefore, when the carriage moves in the scanning direction, the abutting part of the sliding part can reliably abut against the guide member. Thus, the carriage can be kept in a stable posture.

[0154] (G) In the above-described recording device, the sliding portion may also be provided with an abutment portion and a protrusion portion, the abutment portion abutting the guide member at a predetermined length along the scanning direction, and the protrusion portion having a convex curved surface abutting the carriage at the back of the abutment portion at the middle position in the scanning direction.

[0155] According to this structure, the sliding part can be supported in a simple and oscillating manner. Therefore, a guide structure that guides the carriage in a way that allows it to move in the scanning direction via a guide member can be realized with a simple structure.

[0156] (H) In the above-described recording device, the sliding portion may also have a recess at the center of the scanning direction that does not abut against the guide member.

[0157] According to this structure, the contact portion of the sliding part is divided into multiple regions in the scanning direction by the recess. Therefore, while increasing the distance of the contact portion of the sliding part in the scanning direction to stabilize the posture, it is possible to reduce the contact area, thereby reducing the sliding resistance of the carriage.

[0158] (I) In the above-described recording apparatus, the immersion member may be arranged on both sides of the scanning direction relative to the sliding part.

[0159] According to this structure, lubricant can be supplied from the impregnating component to the sliding component and the guiding component in both the forward and return movements of the carriage.

[0160] (J) In the above-described recording device, it may also be provided with: a holding portion disposed on the surface of the slider opposite to the surface opposite to the guide member, and holding the immersion member; an opening formed in the holding portion at a position opposite to the guide member, wherein two opposite sides of the outer periphery of the immersion member in the scanning direction are supported on the outer edge of the opening, and the central portion of the immersion member in the scanning direction is pressed by the pressing member to abut against the guide member.

[0161] This structure prevents the impregnated parts from falling off the slider.

[0162] (K) Alternatively, the pressing member may press the impregnating member by means of a portion extending linearly in a direction intersecting the scanning direction.

[0163] According to this structure, since the pressing member presses the immersion member by using a portion extending in a direction intersecting the scanning direction, the entire width region or nearly the entire width region of the immersion member in the direction intersecting the scanning direction can be brought into contact with the guide member.

[0164] (L) Alternatively, a storage portion for storing the lubricant may be provided at a position parallel to the holding portion in the scanning direction, and a groove portion for guiding the lubricant from the storage portion to the impregnated member held by the holding portion may be provided between the storage portion and the holding portion.

[0165] According to this structure, lubricant can be supplied to the impregnated component from the lubricant reservoir. Compared with a structure without a reservoir, the carriage can move stably for a long time without a large load, even without replenishing the lubricant.

[0166] Symbol Explanation

[0167] 11…Recording device; 12…Basket; 15…Storage section; 16…Opening; 20…Conveying section; 21…Feeding section; 22…Conveying roller pair; 23…Recording medium; 24…Core component; 25…Roll body; 26…First holding section; 27…Second holding section; 28…Support platform; 30…Recording section; 31…Carriage; 32…Recording head; 34…Synchronous toothed belt; 35…Carriage motor; 36…Carriage body; 37…Carriage support section; 41…The… 41A…First assembled surface; 42…Second assembled surface; 42A…Second assembled surface; 43…Third assembled surface; 43A…Third assembled surface; 44…Sliding part; 44A…Frame surface; 50…Guide component; 51…Frame body; 52…Rail section; 53…First rail surface as an example of a flat surface; 54…Second rail surface as an example of a flat surface; 55…Third rail surface as an example of a flat surface Surface; 60… Sliding unit; 61… Sliding part; 61A… Abutting part; 61B… Protrusion; 61C… Recess; 62… Slider; 62A… Slider body; 62B… Holding part; 62C… Locking part; 62D… Support part; 621… Hole; 622… Anti-slip part; 623… Screw insertion hole; 63… Immersed part; 64… Pressing part; 65… Storage part; 71… Receiving hole; 72… Receiving hole; 72A… Opening; 73… Receiving recess ; 74…recess; 75…groove; 77…protrusion; 78…retaining part; GS…sliding mechanism; AS…self-aligning mechanism; GR…lubricant; X…scanning direction; Y…transporting direction; Z…vertical direction; D…transporting direction; Dx…long side direction; Dy…short side direction; Dz…thickness direction; F…first pressing force as an example of the pressing force applied by the carriage to the guide member; f…second pressing force as an example of the pressing force of the pressing member.

Claims

1. A recording device, characterized in that, have: A recording head that performs recording on a recording medium being conveyed in the direction of transport; A carriage that carries the recording head and scans in a scanning direction that intersects the transport direction; A guiding component having a flat surface that guides the carriage in the scanning direction. The carriage has: A sliding part that abuts against and slides against the guide component; An impregnation component, which impregnates at least one side of the sliding portion in the scanning direction with a lubricant; The pressing member presses the impregnated member toward the guide member from a side opposite to the impregnated member. The pressing force of the pressing component is less than the pressing force applied by the carriage to the guide component.

2. The recording device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The pressing force of the pressing component is less than half the pressing force applied by the carriage to the guide component.

3. The recording apparatus as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The slider has the sliding part, the immersion part and the pressing part mounted on it, and the slider is detachably mounted relative to the carriage.

4. The recording device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, Multiple sliders of the same shape are provided on the carriage.

5. The recording device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The slider and the sliding part are designed as separate units. The sliding part is configured to swing relative to the slider, at least around an axis parallel to a direction intersecting the scanning direction.

6. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that, The sliding part has an abutting part and a protruding part. The abutting portion abuts against the guide member at a predetermined length along the scanning direction. The protrusion has a convex curved surface that abuts against the carriage at the back of the middle position of the abutment in the scanning direction.

7. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, The sliding portion has a recess at its center in the scanning direction that does not abut against the guide member.

8. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The immersion component is disposed on both sides of the scanning direction relative to the sliding portion.

9. The recording apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that, have: A retaining part is provided on the surface of the slider opposite to the surface opposite to the guide member, and retains the impregnated member; An opening is formed in the retaining portion at a position opposite to the guide member. The two opposite sides of the outer periphery of the immersion member in the scanning direction are supported on the outer edge of the opening. The central portion of the immersion member in the scanning direction is pressed by the pressing member, thereby abutting against the guide member.

10. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The pressing member uses a portion that extends linearly in a direction intersecting the scanning direction to press the impregnated member.

11. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, A reservoir for storing the lubricant is located at a position parallel to the holding portion in the scanning direction. Between the reservoir and the holding portion, a groove is provided to guide the lubricant from the reservoir to the impregnated member held by the holding portion.

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