Liquid discharge apparatus and control method thereof, and liquid transfer apparatus and control method thereof

Abstract

Liquid discharge apparatus, control method thereof, and liquid transfer apparatus, control method thereof. The liquid discharge apparatus includes a tube configured to establish communication of a flow path by connecting a discharge portion and a container, the discharge portion configured to discharge a liquid to a discharge target medium, the container configured to accommodate the liquid to be supplied to the discharge portion; a valve mechanism configured to switch between a closed state of pressurizing and occluding the tube and an open state of opening the tube according to a rotational position of a cam member configured to rotate by a drive source; and a detection unit configured to detect whether the valve mechanism is in the closed state or in the open state. The valve mechanism includes a detection target portion. The detection unit detects whether the valve mechanism is in the closed state or in the open state by detecting the detection target portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to liquid ejection equipment and control methods thereof, and liquid transfer equipment and control methods thereof. Background Technology

[0002] A printing device is known to be constructed using a tube that connects a printhead for ejecting ink to an ink reservoir containing ink to be supplied to the printhead. In this printing device, the tube is sealed by flattening it using a pressure member to perform various operations. This sealing state is also detected by a sensor.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-248132 (Document 1) discloses a method for detecting the pressurized state of a tube based on the rotational position of a drive shaft for driving a pressurizing member. More specifically, Document 1 discloses a technique in which a detection rotating plate (sensor mark) with a notch is provided for the drive shaft used to drive the pressurizing member, and the rotational position of the drive shaft is detected by detecting the notch using an optical sensor.

[0004] If the pipe remains flattened by the pressurizing member for an extended period due to transportation, power outages, or other reasons, the pressurizing member may adhere to the pipe. If the pipe adheres to the pressurizing member, the technique configured to detect the pressurized state based on the rotational position of the drive shaft, as described in Reference 1, may lead to erroneous detection of the open / closed state. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the invention, a liquid ejection device includes: a pipe configured to establish a flow path by connecting an ejection section and a container, the ejection section being configured to eject liquid to an ejection medium, and the container being configured to contain liquid to be supplied to the ejection section; a valve mechanism configured to switch between a closed state (pressurizing and closing the pipe) and an open state (opening the pipe) based on the rotational position of a cam member, the cam member being configured to rotate by a drive source; and a detection unit configured to detect whether the valve mechanism is in a closed state or an open state. Here, the valve mechanism includes a detection section, and the detection unit detects whether the valve mechanism is in a closed state or an open state by detecting the detection section.

[0006] Other features of the invention will become apparent from the description of the following exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 It is a three-dimensional view showing the printing equipment;

[0008] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the ink can and the printhead;

[0009] Figures 3A to 3DIt is a 3D diagram of the printing equipment;

[0010] Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is a schematic diagram showing the status of the ink canister and printhead;

[0011] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the ink filling sequence;

[0012] Figure 6 It is a block diagram that includes the structure of the printing equipment;

[0013] Figure 7A and Figure 7B It is a three-dimensional view of the operating unit in the valve opening and closing mechanism;

[0014] Figure 8 It is a three-dimensional view showing the outline of the opening and closing valve mechanism;

[0015] Figure 9A and Figure 9B It is a cross-sectional view showing the outline of the opening and closing valve mechanism;

[0016] Figures 10A to 10C This is a perspective view of the opening and closing valve mechanism with the cover component removed.

[0017] Figure 11 It is a 3D diagram of the opening and closing valve mechanism;

[0018] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing the opening and closing valve mechanism in a sticking state.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a valve opening sequence; and

[0020] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the valve initialization operation sequence. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, and not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are always necessary. In the following description, the same reference numerals will be used to denote the same configurations in the embodiments.

[0022] In this specification, the term "printing" (also referred to as "print") is not limited to the formation of meaningful information such as text and graphics, but encompasses the formation of all meaningful and meaningless information. It is also assumed that the term broadly includes the formation of images, diagrams, patterns, etc., on a printing medium, as well as the processing of the printing medium, regardless of whether these objects are displayed in a manner perceptible to the human eye.

[0023] At the same time, the term "ink" (which can also be called "liquid") should be interpreted as broadly as the definition of "printing" above. Therefore, it is assumed that the term refers to a liquid used to form images, patterns, designs, etc., used to process printing media, and used to modify ink properties (such as the coagulation and insolubility of colorants contained in the ink to be applied to the printing media) when the liquid is applied to the printing media.

[0024] In addition, the term "printing media" includes not only paper used in conventional printing equipment, but also a wide range of media that can accept ink, such as cloth, plastic film, metal plates, glass, ceramics, wood, and leather.

[0025] <<First Implementation Method>>

[0026] <Structure of Printing Equipment>

[0027] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a printing device 100, which is an example of a liquid ejection device in this embodiment. Figure 1 Partial configuration of a printing apparatus 100 is shown. The printing apparatus 100 includes: an ink tank 11 containing ink; a printhead 62 ejecting ink supplied from the ink tank 11 via an ink supply passage 51; and a carriage 61 holding the printhead 62. The carriage 61 is configured to scan the printing medium (not shown) in a direction orthogonal to the transport direction of the printing medium, printing an image on the printing medium via a combination of scanning through the carriage 61 and ejection from the printhead 62.

[0028] Although this embodiment describes an example of a printing apparatus, the same applies to liquid ejection apparatuses. For example, such a liquid ejection apparatus may include: a liquid container holding liquid; a liquid ejection unit ejecting liquid supplied from the liquid container via an ink supply passage; and a liquid ejection unit holder holding the liquid ejection unit. This embodiment will be described using a printing apparatus 100 as an example of a liquid ejection apparatus.

[0029] Each ink tank 11 can be either a first ink tank 111 or a second ink tank 112. This embodiment illustrates the case where multiple first ink tanks 111 are provided assuming the use of multiple types of ink. However, when using a single type of ink, only a single ink tank (such as a first ink tank 111) may be provided. Simultaneously, when using a large amount of ink, a second ink tank 112 with a capacity greater than that of the first ink tank 111 may be provided. It is not limited to this; only the second ink tank 112 may be provided, or both the first ink tank 111 and the second ink tank 112 may be provided as in this embodiment. When two or more ink tanks 11 are provided, the ink tanks 11 can be positioned on the right and left sides relative to the center of the printing device 100, or only on one side, depending on the size of the printing device 100. In this embodiment, three color ink tanks 111, each capable of holding cyan, magenta, and yellow ink, are provided as first ink tanks 111. Simultaneously, one black ink tank 112, capable of holding black ink, is provided as the second ink tank 112. This will be described later. Figure 1 The construction of the other components shown.

[0030] The printing apparatus 100 includes a feed roller (not shown) for feeding printing media, a transport roller (not shown) for conveying printing media, and an discharge roller (not shown) for discharging printing media. A printhead 62 is detachably mounted to a carriage 61 and is configured to eject ink onto the surface of the printing media conveyed by the transport roller, thereby printing an image onto the printing media. Additionally, the printing apparatus 100 includes an ink suction mechanism 64 with a suction cap 65 (see [link to ink suction mechanism]). Figure 4B To restore the ejection performance of printhead 62, printing apparatus 100 brings suction cap 65 into contact with printhead 62 and uses ink suction mechanism 64 to draw ink from ink ejection outlet 63 of printhead 62 (see ink ejection outlet 63). Figure 4B The ink suction mechanism 64 includes, for example, a tube connected to the suction cap 65 and a suction pump that serves as the suction unit.

[0031] This embodiment describes an example of printhead 62 ejecting ink according to movement associated with scanning via a carriage. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration. The printhead can be so-called linear, with ink jet exits provided in an area corresponding to the width of the printing medium, and configured to print images onto the printing medium without scanning via a carriage.

[0032] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the ink tank 11 and the printhead 62. A supply tube 17, constituting an ink supply passage 51 for supplying ink to the printhead 62, is attached to the ink tank 11. Additionally, a tube constituting an atmospheric communication passage 54 for communicating the interior of the ink tank 11 (buffer chamber 16) with the atmosphere is connected to the ink tank 11. The supply tube 17 is formed of a flexible material (elastic member) such as an elastomer or silicon. Valve units 53 for blocking the communication of liquid or air are respectively provided at a portion of the ink supply passage 51 between the ink tank 11 and the printhead 62, and at a portion of the atmospheric communication passage 54 between the ink tank 11 and the atmospheric communication port 52.

[0033] Valve unit 53 includes a black-side valve unit and a color-side valve unit. The black-side valve unit closes the ink supply passage 51 connected to the black ink tank 112 and the atmospheric communication passage 54, respectively. The color-side valve unit closes the ink supply passage 51 connected to the color ink tank 111 and the atmospheric communication passage 54, respectively. Simultaneously, an on / off valve mechanism 160 for cutting off liquid or air communication is provided at a portion of each ink supply passage 51 located between valve unit 53 and printhead 62. The on / off valve mechanism 160 includes a black-side on / off valve mechanism and a color-side on / off valve mechanism. The black-side on / off valve mechanism closes the ink supply passage 51 connected to the black ink tank 112. The color-side on / off valve mechanisms close the ink supply passage 51 connected to the color ink tank 111, respectively. Each on / off valve mechanism 160 includes various components. Here, the black-side and color-side on / off valve mechanisms may use common, identical components or different components from each other. Details of the on / off valve mechanisms will be described later. The difference in function between the opening and closing valve mechanism 160 and the valve unit 53 will be described later.

[0034] In the printing apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the liquid-gas replacement section 15 of the ink tank 11 is located at a position H lower in the height direction than the ink jet outlet 63 of the printhead 62 to prevent ink leakage from the ink jet outlet 63 of the printhead 62. In other words, a negative pressure originating from the head difference corresponding to the height H is applied to the ink jet outlet 63. Meanwhile, a buffer chamber 16 is provided at the lower part of the ink tank 11. The buffer chamber 16 can store ink to be ejected when the meniscus in the liquid-gas replacement section 15 is disrupted due to the expansion of air inside the ink tank 11 caused by changes in atmospheric pressure or temperature. Therefore, ink leakage from the ink tank 11 through the atmospheric communication passage 54 can be suppressed. Figure 2 And as described later Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the diagram, dashed lines represent the open state of valve unit 53 and valve opening / closing mechanism 160, while solid lines represent their closed state.

[0035] Next, we will refer to Figures 3A to 5The construction of the ink supply system in this embodiment and the flow from the point of ink injection to the point where the image can be printed are described. Figures 3A to 3D This is a perspective view of the printing device 100 according to this embodiment. Figures 3A to 3D It shows from Figure 3A The state in Figure 3D The image shows a 3D diagram illustrating the process of a user injecting ink into ink can 11. Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the ink tank 11 and the printhead 62 according to this embodiment.

[0036] like Figure 3A As shown, the printing device 100 includes a third cover member 41, which is provided with a mechanism for reading an image on the loaded original and is pivotally supported by the printing device 100 in an openable and closable manner. Note that the third cover member 41 may be a reading mechanism for reading an image on the original, or it may be an access cover forming an outer surface that exposes the internal components of the printing device 100 for removing printing media that may cause poor delivery during image printing. Ink cartridges 11 are mounted on the front surface side (+y direction side) of the printing device 100, allowing the user to easily inject ink into the ink cartridges 11. As described above, a total of four ink cartridges 11 are provided in this embodiment, namely three color ink cartridges 111 and one black ink cartridge 112. However, the type and number of ink cartridges 11 are not limited to this example. For example, more than four ink cartridges 11 may be provided to improve the image printing quality of the printing media.

[0037] When the user fills the ink tank 11, the user first rotates the third cover component 41 upwards, and as follows: Figure 3B As shown, the third cover member 41 is set to the open state. When the third cover member 41 is rotated a predetermined amount, the open state of the third cover member 41 can be maintained by using a locking mechanism (not shown). Here, the cover sensor 18 is mounted on the housing 19 and can detect the open or closed state of the third cover member 41. The cover sensor 18 is not limited to a mechanical sensor designed to detect mechanical contact. For example, the cover sensor 18 can be an optical sensor. Here, the locking mechanism can be released by further rotating the third cover member 41 upward. This action can close the third cover member 41. By opening the third cover member 41, the internal components of the printing device 100 are exposed, and the user can operate the second cover member 21 (see...). Figure 3B and Figure 1 ).

[0038] The second cover member 21 is pivotally supported in a manner that allows it to move between a forward-tilted position (closed cover position) and an upward-raised position (open cover position). Each ink cartridge 11 is provided with a second cover member 21. More specifically, the black ink cartridge 112 is covered by a black second cover member 212, and the three color ink cartridges 111 are integrally covered by a single color second cover member 211. The black second cover member 212 and the color second cover member 211 are collectively referred to as second cover members 21. Although in this embodiment, the black second cover member 212 and the color second cover member 211 are formed into different shapes, these cover members can be formed into the same shape.

[0039] When the user operates the second cover member 21 from the closed position to the open position, the first cover member 12 for closing the ink tank 11 will be revealed (see...). Figure 1 , Figure 3C and Figure 4B The first cover member 12 is pivotally supported in a manner that allows it to move between a closed tap position (closed tap position) and a raised position (open tap position) of the ink tank 11. When the user operates the first cover member 12 from the closed tap position to the open tap position, the ink inlet 14 located on the upper part of the ink tank 11 for user ink refilling is revealed (see...). Figure 3D and Figure 4A ).

[0040] The first cover member 12 is provided with a sealing member 13 formed of an elastomer such as rubber. By operating the first cover member 12 to the closed plug position, the sealing member 13 closes the injection port 14 to prevent ink leakage contained in the ink container 11. In this embodiment, the valve unit 53 operates in conjunction with the operation of raising the first cover member 12, thereby blocking the ink supply passage 51 and the atmospheric communication passage 54 respectively. Figure 4A ).

[0041] The user can inject ink into the ink tank 11 by inserting a container (not shown) containing ink into the injection port 14. After the ink injection is complete, the user operates the first cover member 12 to the closed position again. The valve unit 53 operates in conjunction with this operation, thereby opening the ink supply passage 51 and the atmospheric connection passage 54 respectively (see...). Figure 4B Subsequently, the user operates the second cover member 21 to the closed position, thereby closing the third cover member 41. The printing device 100 is able to detect the closure of the third cover member 41 by using a cover sensor 18 configured to detect the position of the third cover member 41. Upon detecting the closure of the third cover member 41, as... Figure 4BAs shown, the printing device 100 contacts the suction cap 65 with the printhead 62 to fill the ink L in the ink tank 11 into the ink supply passage 51. Then, the ink suction mechanism 64 performs a suction operation to draw the ink L out from the ink jet outlet 63. As a result of this suction operation, the supply tube 17 constituting the ink supply passage 51 is filled with ink. In addition, during this suction operation, a large negative pressure can be applied to the ink jet outlet 63 by executing the opening and closing control of the on / off valve mechanism 160. More specifically, the suction pump of the ink suction mechanism 64 is driven while the on / off valve mechanism 160 is closed and the printhead 62 is covered by the suction cap 65. In this way, a negative pressure is generated between the on / off valve mechanism 160 and the ink jet outlet 63 of the printhead 62. Then, when the suction pump stops and the on / off valve mechanism 160 opens, ink is filled into the printhead 62 by means of the generated negative pressure. Meanwhile, the opening and closing valve mechanism 160 also has the function of blocking the ink supply passage 51 to prevent ink leakage when the printing device 100 is moved.

[0042] As described above, in this embodiment, the ink supply passage 51 is provided with two types of valves: valve unit 53 and on / off valve mechanism 160, which have independent and different functions. Specifically, valve unit 53 closes the ink supply passage 51 when filling the ink tank 11 with ink, and opens the ink supply passage 51 in other cases. On the other hand, on / off valve mechanism 160 closes the ink supply passage 51 to suppress ink leakage or to perform efficient suction when filling ink. Details of on / off valve mechanism 160 will be described later.

[0043] With the ink filled as described above, when printing an image onto a printing medium, for example, ink is ejected from the ink jet outlet 63, and ink is supplied from the ink tank 11 to the print head 62 in an amount equal to the amount of ink ejected from the print head 62. Ink is continuously supplied from the ink tank 11 to the print head 62 until the ink in the ink tank 11 is below a predetermined amount.

[0044] The above example has explained the scenario where the user performs opening and closing operations by manipulating the first cover member 12, the second cover member 21, and the third cover member 41. Alternatively, the opening and closing operations can be performed automatically by means of controls within the printing device.

[0045] <Ink Fill Sequence>

[0046] Figure 5This is a flowchart of the ink filling sequence. When starting the ink filling sequence, first in S51, the printing device 100 moves the carriage 61 holding the printhead 62 to a suction position opposite the suction cap 65. In S52, the printing device 100 brings the suction cap 65 into contact with the printhead 62. In S53, the printing device 100 performs a suction operation using the suction cap 65 to draw ink from the ink jet outlet 63 of the printhead 62. In this case, the suction operation can be performed in conjunction with the opening and closing control of the opening and closing valve mechanism 160 as discussed earlier. After the suction operation is completed, in S54, the printing device 100 removes the suction cap 65 from the printhead 62. Then, in S55, the printing device 100 moves the carriage 61 from the suction position to the standby position. Thus, the series of operations of the ink filling sequence is terminated.

[0047] <Block Diagram>

[0048] Figure 6 This is a block diagram including the structure of the printing apparatus 100 according to this embodiment. The printing apparatus 100 includes a printhead 62, an MPU 601, a ROM 602, a RAM 603, a carriage motor 604, a transport motor 605, a printhead driver 607, a carriage motor driver 608, a transport motor driver 609, and an I / F unit 613. A program serving as an image processing unit 6021 is stored in the ROM 602.

[0049] MPU 601 controls the operation and data processing of each unit. ROM 602 stores programs and data to be executed by MPU 601. RAM 603 temporarily stores processing data to be executed by MPU 601 and data received from host computer 600. Printhead 62 is controlled by printhead driver 607. Carriage 61 is driven by carriage motor 604. Carriage motor 604 is controlled by carriage motor driver 608. Feed roller, conveyor roller, and discharge roller are driven by conveyor motor 605. Conveyor motor 605 is controlled by conveyor motor driver 609. Host computer 600 includes printer driver 610, used to process printing information such as the printed image and image quality, and to communicate with printing device 100 when the user issues a command to perform a printing operation. MPU 601 exchanges printed images with host computer 600 through I / F unit 613.

[0050] <Structure of the opening and closing valve mechanism>

[0051] The following is a description of the construction and operation of the opening and closing valve mechanism 160 according to this embodiment. Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a perspective view of the operation unit 161 in the valve mechanism 160 according to this embodiment. Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the outline of the opening and closing valve mechanism 160 according to this embodiment. Figure 9A and Figure 9B This is a cross-sectional view showing the outline of the opening and closing valve mechanism 160 according to this embodiment. Figures 10A to 10C This is a perspective view of the opening and closing valve mechanism 160 in the state where the cover component 162 has been removed. Figure 11 It is the slave of the opening and closing valve mechanism 160. Figure 8 Stereoscopic images viewed from different perspectives. The main reference should be appropriate. Figures 7A to 11 The following description is provided.

[0052] As described above, the on / off valve mechanism 160 is a valve used to close and open (establish communication) the ink supply passage 51 formed by the supply pipe 17. Figure 1 , Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 As shown, the on / off valve mechanism 160 includes an operating unit 161 that can be manually operated by the user. The on / off valve mechanism 160 is arranged at the ink supply passage 51 and can be switched between an open state for establishing communication between the ink tank 11 and the print head 62 and a closed state for blocking this communication by operating the operating unit 161. Additionally, as... Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, printing marks 166 and maintenance marks 167 are drawn at the operating position of the operating unit 161 to allow the user to visually identify the open and closed state of the valve in the valve-opening / closing mechanism 160. The valve-opening / closing mechanism 160 according to this embodiment can be operated manually and automatically by connecting to a drive unit. Here, the drive unit can be electrically driven by an external power source. In other words, in addition to manual operation by the user, the operating unit 161 can be switched between an open and closed state by driving an external drive unit.

[0053] like Figure 3B As shown, the printing device 100 includes a housing 19. Additionally, as... Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, the housing 19 includes an opening 190. The operation unit 161 is arranged in the opening 190. Meanwhile, since a cover sensor 18 is provided in this embodiment... Figure 3B Therefore, the printing device 100 can detect whether the operation unit 161 is in a user-operable state by using the cover sensor 18.

[0054] like Figures 8 to 11 As shown, in addition to the user-operable operating unit 161, the valve opening and closing mechanism 160 includes a cover member 162, a receiving member 163, a shifting member 164, a cam 165 (cam member), a holding member 169, and a drive mechanism 260. Figure 9A The open state of the valve mechanism 160 is shown. Figure 9BThe closed state of the on / off valve mechanism 160 is shown. Figure 10A It is shown that appears Figure 8 The diagram shows the state after the cover component 162 has been removed. Figure 10B It is shown that appears Figure 10A A diagram showing the state after the displacement component 164 has been removed. Figure 10C It is shown that appears Figure 10B A diagram showing the state after the receiving component 163 is removed.

[0055] like Figures 8 to 9B As shown, the cover member 162 and the retaining member 169 hold the supply tubes 17. One end of each supply tube 17 is connected to the printhead 62, and the other end is connected to the corresponding ink reservoir 11. The supply tube 17 includes a curved region that can bend as the printhead 62 moves. An on / off valve mechanism 160 is configured such that the curved region of the supply tube 17 is located between the printhead 62 and the cover member 162. In other words, the on / off valve mechanism 160 is arranged in the region of each supply tube 17 that does not move with the movement of the carriage 61.

[0056] like Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 11 As shown, the shifting member 164 is a member provided with a pressurizing portion 164a that pressurizes the supply pipe 17 and is deformable in the direction that interferes with the supply pipe 17. In other words, the shifting member 164 is provided in a manner that allows it to move forward toward the supply pipe 17 and backward from the supply pipe 17. The receiving member 163 is a member for receiving the shifting member 164 that has shifted in the direction that interferes with the supply pipe 17, and includes a contact portion 163a. ​​At the same time, the first force-applying member 170 applies a force toward the holding member 169 to the receiving member 163. The receiving member 163 is provided on the opposite side of the side where the portion of the shifting member 164 is provided, across the supply pipe 17. In addition, the pressurizing portion 164a of the shifting member 164 presses the supply pipe 17a against the contact portion 163a of the receiving member 163 and flattens the supply pipe 17, thereby blocking the ink supply passage 51. As a result, the opening and closing valve mechanism 160 enters the closed state. In the following text, the displacement member 164, including the pressurizing part 164a, will be referred to as the valve mechanism or simply the valve. A force toward the cam 165 is applied to the displacement member 164 by using the second force-applying member 171.

[0057] like Figures 8 to 10C As shown, the cam 165 includes a cam surface 165a and a cam shaft 165b. The cam 165 rotates by engaging with the operating unit 161, thereby displacing the shifting member 164. In this embodiment, as... Figures 10A to 10C As shown, the cam 165 and the operating unit 161 are separately arranged. Alternatively, the cam 165 and the operating unit 161 can be integrated together. Figure 9A and Figure 9BAs shown, cam 165 is configured such that cam surface 165a contacts displacement member 164. When the user operates operation unit 161, cam 165 rotates about cam shaft 165b with the operation, and displacement member 164, pushed by cam surface 165a, is displaced accordingly. In this way, the user can block or open ink supply passage 51 via operation unit 161.

[0058] like Figure 8 As shown, the drive mechanism 260 includes a drive mechanism holding unit 261, a drive transmission gear 262 serving as a drive transmission unit for transmitting drive to the operation unit 161, an intermediate gear train 263, and a motor 265. The drive mechanism holding unit 261 includes the drive transmission gear 262, the intermediate gear train 263, and the motor 265. The motor 265 includes a motor gear 264. The drive transmission gear 262 engages with the operation unit 161. Driving force is transmitted from the motor 265, which is connected to an external power source (not shown), to the drive transmission gear 262 via the intermediate gear train 263, causing the operation unit 161, which engages with it, to rotate. Therefore, by using the cam 165 to shift the shifting member, the connection of the ink supply passage 51 can be automatically closed and established. Here, by using a worm gear for the motor gear 264 as in this embodiment, the direction of drive transmission can be controlled in one direction from the motor 265 side toward the operation unit 161 side. However, the motor gear 264 is not limited to a worm gear, and other known gears can be used.

[0059] Next, the operation of closing each supply pipe 17 by means of the opening and closing valve mechanism 160 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 9A The diagram shows a state where the shifting member 164 does not flatten the supply tube 17, and the ink supply passage 51 is connected (open state). In this open state, ink in the supply tube 17 can be supplied from the ink tank 11 to the print head 62 through the ink supply passage 51. In this case, as... Figure 7A As shown, the operating surface 161a of the operating unit 161 is located on the side indicated by the printed mark 166. The user rotates the operating unit 161 by accessing the operating surface 161a with their finger. Optionally, as discussed earlier, the rotation of the operating unit 161 is performed automatically. The rotation operation can be performed manually or automatically, such that the operating surface 161a of the operating unit 161, which is in the open state, faces the side indicated by the printed mark 166. Figure 7B Rotate the side indicated by maintenance mark 167 as shown. Then, as... Figure 9B As shown, the cam surface 165a of the cam 165, which is configured to rotate in response to the rotation operation of the operation unit 161, also rotates. Subsequently, the cam surface 165a causes the shifting member 164 to shift along the direction of the interference supply pipe 17.

[0060] Figure 9B This illustrates the state where the shifting member 164 flattens the supply tube 17 and blocks the ink supply passage 51 (blocked state). Figure 9B As shown, the supply tube 17 is flattened between the shifting member 164 and the receiving member 163, thereby blocking the ink supply passage 51. In this situation, the supply tube 17 is in a state where ink from the ink tank 11 cannot be supplied to the print head 62, and airflow is not allowed within it. As a result, ink is not supplied from the ink tank 11 to the print head 62. Therefore, with the movement of ink suppressed in the ink supply passage 51, the user can perform operations such as replacing the print head 62 and transporting the printing equipment 100. At the same time, by performing the above-mentioned suction operation with the ink supply passage 51 blocked using the on / off valve mechanism 160, operations such as initial filling of the print head 62 with ink and removal of air bubbles from the ink supply passage 51 can be performed efficiently.

[0061] Here, as Figure 10C and Figure 11 As shown, this embodiment includes a plurality of receiving members 163 corresponding to the supply tube 17 for each ink color, and also includes a plurality of contact portions 163a corresponding to the supply tube 17 for each ink color. In this embodiment, a single common member is configured as a shifting member 164. Meanwhile, as... Figure 11 As shown, two pressure sections 164a are provided on the black side (BL) and the color side (CL). Furthermore, by individually flattening each supply pipe 17 by the contact section 163a of each supply pipe 17 and the pressure section 164a of the shifting member 164, the ink supply passage 51 can be individually blocked. As described above, this embodiment is configured to close both the black on / off valve mechanism 160 and the color on / off valve mechanism 160 by shifting the shifting member 164 in the direction of interfering with the supply pipe 17. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. Meanwhile, this embodiment describes an example where the cam 165 for shifting the shifting member 164 and the operating unit 161 for rotating the cam 165 use a single shared component for both black and color inks. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The aforementioned components constituting the on / off valve mechanism 160 can be suitably prepared to form an on / off valve mechanism 160 for each ink color. Optionally, a shared on / off valve mechanism 160 can be provided for all colors.

[0062] At the same time, such as Figure 9A and Figure 9BAs shown, the opening / closing valve mechanism 160 is equipped with an opening / closing valve sensor 168 for detecting whether the opening / closing valve mechanism 160 is in an open or closed state. In this embodiment, the opening / closing valve sensor 168 is an optical sensor activated in a non-contact manner. When the operation unit 161 is operated manually or automatically, the detection target portion 164b provided on the shift member 164 passes through the detection unit of the opening / closing valve sensor 168, thereby activating the opening / closing valve sensor 168. Therefore, the opening / closing valve sensor 168 can detect the closed and open states of the opening / closing valve mechanism 160. Here, the opening / closing valve sensor 168 can instead be a contact sensor or any other known structure. For example, the opening / closing valve sensor 168 can be a magnetic sensor, a leaf switch, etc. At the same time, when multiple shift members are provided, the number of detection target portions 164b can be the same as the number of shift members.

[0063] Simultaneously, various controls can be performed by linking the on / off valve sensor 168 and the cover sensor 18. For example, it is possible that the cover sensor 18 detects the open state of the third cover member 41, and then, upon detecting the closed state of the third cover member 41, the on / off valve sensor 168 detects the closed state. This could be due to, for example, a manual operation by the user causing the closed state. In this case, the printing device 100 can be used with the supply pipe 17 in a blocked state. Therefore, error notifications can be displayed on the operation display unit 611, or various initialization processes can be performed.

[0064] <On / Off Valve Sensor>

[0065] Next, a detailed description of the operation of the on / off valve sensor 168 detecting the detection target section 164b will be given. As described above, in the case where ink leakage is suppressed during transport by pressurizing the supply tube 17 and blocking it using the pressurizing part 164a of the shift member 164, as in the printing apparatus 100 of this embodiment, for example, assuming that the printing apparatus 100 remains unused for a long time while in motion, the supply tube 17 may remain flattened by the shift member 164 for a long time. In addition, if the supply tube 17 is made of a flexible material such as an elastomer, as in this embodiment, if the supply tube 17 is kept under pressure by the shift member 164 for a long time, the supply tube 17 will adhere to the shift member 164.

[0066] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the opening and closing valve mechanism 160 in the attached state. Figure 12 This indicates that it can be maintained for a long time. Figure 9B After the cam is in the closed state, the cam 165 moves towards the position where... Figure 9A The diagram shows the position of the open state and its rotation state. (See diagram for example.) Figure 12 As shown, depending on the degree of adhesion, it takes time for the displacement member 164 to recover by using only the second force-applying member 171 that resists the force applied by the cam 165. As a result, the displacement member 164 may fail to follow the cam 165, and the cam 165 may disengage from the displacement member 164. Here, in the case where the drive shaft is equipped with a detection object section (sensor flag), the sensor flag is detected normally at the point when the cam 165 rotates to the predetermined position, so the opening operation is considered complete. However, because the tube is actually in a closed state, there may be a situation that prevents normal ink supply during ink supply operation.

[0067] Meanwhile, according to the opening and closing valve mechanism 160 of this embodiment, the detection target part 164b is provided on a displacement member 164 that is shifted by a drive operation using a drive shaft (camshaft 165b). Therefore, even in the case of developing an adhesive, such as Figure 12 As shown, the valve sensor 168 can also detect that the detection target part 164b is in a closed state. Therefore, it is possible to suppress erroneous detections of the open / closed state, such as detecting it as open when it is actually closed.

[0068] Meanwhile, this embodiment is configured to control the cam 165 (drive shaft) in such a way that the cam 165 is rotated by a predetermined amount. For example, this predetermined amount of rotation corresponds to an action of drive control for a specific amount of drive sufficient to open the valve. In this way, the position of the displacement member 164 can be properly detected using the valve opening / closing sensor 168, and it can be confirmed that the supply pipe 17 is not blocked.

[0069] Note that since the drive shaft does not have a detection target section, the valve opening / closing mechanism 160 of this embodiment cannot detect the phase of the cam 165. In other words, although the valve opening / closing mechanism 160 can control the drive amount, it cannot detect the rotational position of the cam 165 as a result of the drive. Therefore, by repeatedly rotating the cam 165 by a specific drive amount, it is desired that the cam 165 be in the position where the valve is open. In addition, in many cases, the adhesion will disappear after a predetermined period of time after the pressure is released. In view of this situation, this embodiment is configured to determine whether the valve mechanism is in the open state or the closed state by detecting the position of the shifting member 164 after a predetermined standby period of time has elapsed following the completion of the operation of rotating the cam 165 by a predetermined amount.

[0070] Furthermore, by implementing a scheme that retryes the detection a predetermined number of times after a predetermined standby period, the frequency of erroneous termination of the valve opening operation can be reduced. During the retry, the predetermined rotation amount can differ from that in the initial detection. For example, the predetermined rotation amount in the first detection after the drive shaft begins to move can be set to cause cam 165 to... Figure 9B Position in the middle to locate Figure 9A The rotation amount of the position in the middle, and the rotation amount during retries in the second detection, etc., can be set to 1 / 2 or 1 / 3 of the rotation amount in the first detection. Here, when retries a predetermined number of times, the cam 165 may, for example, rotate from... Figure 9A The position is further rotated clockwise, and depending on the phase of the predetermined rotation, cam 165 may stop at the position where the supply pipe 17 is pressurized. However, the predetermined standby period is significantly shorter than the time spent on long-term storage or delivery, so it does not affect adhesion. On the other hand, if, as described above, the valve is detected as open as a result of a retry, the phase of cam 165 may not be in the proper position, as previously mentioned. Therefore, cam 165 can be temporarily moved to the closed position, and then cam 165 can be rotated again to the position corresponding to the open position. Specifically, after the valve sensor 168 detects the valve's open position (or in other words, after confirming that adhesion has been eliminated), cam 165 can be temporarily rotated to the valve's closed position. Then, based on this position, cam 165 rotates to the position that establishes the valve's open position. Thus, control can be performed in a manner that maintains the proper phase of cam 165.

[0071] In this embodiment, when preparing to start driving the drive source to avoid power loss during the valve opening sequence, a valve in-operation flag is stored in ROM 602. The in-operation flag is a flag (data bit) indicating whether a valve opening sequence is being executed. Then, if the in-operation flag is ON, the valve opening sequence is executed during the initialization sequence; otherwise, if the in-operation flag is OFF, the valve opening sequence is omitted. In this way, availability is improved by shortening the operation time caused by unnecessary valve opening sequence operations and by increasing durability associated with reduced operation frequency.

[0072] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the valve opening sequence of this embodiment. Figure 13 The process shown is achieved by having the MPU601 execute a program stored in ROM602. Figure 13 The processing is performed when the MPU601 receives an instruction to set the on / off valve mechanism 160 to the open state.

[0073] In S1301, MPU601 initializes the number of retries R stored in RAM603 to "0".

[0074] In S1302, MPU601 determines whether the number of retries R exceeds a predetermined number, or in other words, whether the retry limit is exceeded. If the retry limit is exceeded, the process proceeds to S1309, where the valve opening operation becomes a valve opening operation error, and the process terminates. In the case of a valve opening operation error, ink cannot be supplied to the print head 62. Therefore, fault handling and error control occur. On the other hand, if the number of retries R is less than the predetermined number, the process proceeds to S1303.

[0075] In S1303, MPU601 sets the operation flag in ROM602 to ON. Then, the process proceeds to S1304, where MPU601 drives cam 165 by a predetermined amount using motor 265, which serves as the drive source. Consequently, cam 165 retracts from the position where pressure is applied to shift member 164. Subsequently, in S1305, MPU601 waits for a predetermined waiting period to allow shift member 164 to disengage from supply pipe 17. Afterwards, in S1306, MPU601 detects whether the on / off valve sensor 168 is in the open state. Specifically, after a predetermined standby period, MPU601 obtains the detection result of the on / off valve sensor 168. If the detection result of the on / off valve sensor 168 is in the open state, the shift member 164 is not attached, and it is considered that the pipe closure has been restored. Therefore, the process proceeds to S1307, where MPU601 sets the operation flag to OFF and terminates the operation. In this case, as described above, the cam 165 can be temporarily rotated to a position that pressurizes the shifting member 164, and then the cam 165 can be rotated based on that position to a position that sets the valve to the open position.

[0076] On the other hand, if it is determined in S1306 that the on / off valve sensor 168 is not in the open state, or in other words, in the closed state, the process proceeds to S1308. In S1308, MPU601 increments the retry count R by 1. Then, MPU601 returns to S1302 and repeats the process.

[0077] Here, the waiting period can be set to a predetermined value. Optionally, the waiting period can be determined based on one or a combination of values ​​of various parameters. Then, the waiting period can be varied according to the usage status of the printing device 100. Examples of parameters include the time elapsed since the valve closed (if the printing device 100 is equipped with a timer), the temperature during use (if the printing device 100 is equipped with a temperature sensor), the humidity during use (if the printing device 100 is equipped with a humidity sensor), and the cumulative total number of printed sheets, etc. In addition, various other parameters that affect adhesion can also be applied. If the waiting period is not set, the cam 165 (drive shaft) will operate continuously in a manner that moves to the open position, the closed position, the open position, the closed position, etc. Here, the drive operation, which corresponds to the number of retries, will end if the disengagement at the open position is not satisfied. Therefore, as mentioned above, a valve opening error may occur. According to this embodiment, by setting the waiting period, it is possible to wait for the disengagement of the closed supply pipe 17.

[0078] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the valve initialization operation sequence included in the initialization sequence of the printing device 100. Figure 14 The processing in S1401 is also performed by causing MPU601 to execute a program stored in ROM602. During the initialization sequence of the printing device 100, in S1401, MPU601 determines whether the operation flag is ON. If the operation flag is ON, the processing proceeds to S1403, where MPU601 executes a valve opening sequence. The processing in S1403 is similar to... Figure 13 The corresponding processing in the middle.

[0079] exist Figure 13 After the operation flag is set to ON in S1303 and before it is set to OFF in S1307, an undesirable power outage, such as a power failure, may occur. In this case, the operation flag written to the ROM 602, which is a non-volatile memory, remains ON. Therefore, in this case, during the initialization operation triggered by the next power-on, the valve opening sequence in S1403 will be executed due to the determination in S1401. On the other hand, if the valve opening operation has already been completed, or if the valve opening operation has not yet occurred, the operation flag is OFF. Therefore, the determination in S1401 becomes negative, and the process proceeds to S1402. In S1402, MPU 601 determines whether the on / off valve sensor 168 is in the open state. If the on / off valve sensor 168 is not in the open state, the process proceeds to S1403, and the valve opening sequence is executed. On the other hand, if the on / off valve sensor 168 is in the open state, the valve opening sequence is skipped. Thus, control can be performed in a manner that avoids unnecessary operations.

[0080] As described above, in this embodiment, instead of placing the detection target part on the drive shaft, the detection target part 164b is placed on the shifting member 164 for pressurizing the supply pipe 17. Therefore, the valve opening / closing sensor 168 is configured to detect the position of the detection target part 164b. This allows for proper detection of the pressurized state of the supply pipe 17. As a result, errors such as poor ink filling can be avoided. Furthermore, after a predetermined waiting period has elapsed following the completion of the cam 165 drive to allow the supply pipe 17 to disengage from the shifting member 164, the operation of detecting the valve opening / closing sensor 168 is performed. In this way, even in the event of adhesion, the valve opening operation can be completed without causing erroneous termination. Simultaneously, by making the waiting period variable based on various parameters such as the time elapsed after the valve is closed, the valve opening sequence is executed without involving redundant waiting periods. This improves usability. Furthermore, by writing an operation flag into non-volatile memory during the valve opening / closing operation, unnecessary initialization operations can be avoided. This shortens operation time and improves durability.

[0081] <<Other Implementation Methods>>

[0082] The above embodiments have explained an example of pressurizing the supply tube 17 by displacing the shift member 164 in response to the rotation of the cam 165 in the direction of pivoting movement. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration. Attachment can also occur in other modes as long as the shift member 164 is driven by a drive source to pressurize the supply tube 17. In this document, instead of the direction of pivoting movement, the driving direction of the shift member can be the direction of linear movement.

[0083] Meanwhile, the above embodiment has explained an example of pressurizing the supply pipe 17 by the shifting member 164. However, this embodiment is applicable to any other mode, as long as the flow path is closed by pressurizing the pipe using the pressurizing part. For example, the present invention is also applicable to the mode of pressurizing the pipe connected to the pump to be used in the recovery operation using the pressurizing part. In other words, the valve mechanism described in this embodiment is applicable to various flow path pipes.

[0084] Meanwhile, the above embodiments have explained examples of printing devices that use ink for printing. Alternatively, in a liquid transfer device configured to transfer liquid stored in a first reservoir unit to a second reservoir unit, the opening and closing of the transfer flow path therein can be performed in the same manner as in the above embodiments.

[0085] The invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, but it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the claims should be accorded the broadest interpretation to include all such variations, equivalent structures, and functions.

[0086] This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-020360, filed on February 12, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A liquid discharge apparatus comprising: a tube configured to establish communication of a flow path by connecting a discharge portion and a container, the discharge portion configured to discharge a liquid to a discharge target medium, the container configured to accommodate the liquid to be supplied to the discharge portion; a valve mechanism configured to switch between a closed state in which the tube is pressurized and occluded, and an open state in which the tube is opened, in accordance with a rotational position of a cam member configured to be rotated by a drive source; and a detection unit configured to detect whether the valve mechanism is in the closed state or in the open state, characterized in that the valve mechanism includes a detection target portion, and the detection unit detects whether the valve mechanism is in the closed state or in the open state by detecting the detection target portion.

2. The liquid discharge apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit configured to control opening and closing of the valve mechanism by controlling an operation of driving the drive source, and to obtain a detection result from the detection unit.

3. The liquid discharge apparatus according to claim 2, wherein in a case where the valve mechanism is opened, the control unit performs an operation of driving the drive source by a predetermined amount in a direction of opening the valve mechanism, and the control unit obtains the detection result from the detection unit after elapse of a predetermined standby period, in conjunction with completion of the operation of driving the drive source.

4. The liquid discharge apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined standby period is variable, and is determined in accordance with a usage state of the liquid discharge apparatus.

5. The liquid discharge apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the usage state is based on at least one of an elapsed time from a point at which the valve mechanism becomes the closed state, an air temperature, a humidity, and a cumulative total number of printed sheets printed on a discharge target medium.

6. The liquid discharge apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein in a case where the detection result of the detection unit becomes the closed state after elapse of the predetermined standby period, the control unit repeatedly performs, a predetermined number of times, a group of the operation of driving the drive source and a group of obtaining the detection result of the detection unit after elapse of the predetermined standby period. in a case where the detection result of the detection unit becomes the closed state after the group is repeatedly performed the predetermined number of times, the control unit performs error control.

7. The liquid ejection device of claim 6, wherein, the predetermined amount of the operation of driving the drive source is different between a first time of driving the drive source after start of driving of the drive source, and a second time and later of driving the drive source.

8. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein 9. The liquid discharge apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5, further comprising a nonvolatile memory, wherein at a time of starting driving of the drive source, the control unit sets a flag to on and writes the flag into the nonvolatile memory, the flag indicating that an operation of opening the valve mechanism is being performed, ​ In a case where the detection result of the detection unit indicates the open state, the control unit sets the flag to off and writes the flag into the nonvolatile memory, and In a case where the flag is off when the initialization operation of the liquid discharge apparatus is performed, the control unit does not perform the initialization processing of the valve mechanism.

10. The liquid ejection device of claim 9, wherein, In a case where the flag is on when the initialization operation of the liquid discharge apparatus is performed, the control unit performs the initialization processing to establish the open state of the valve mechanism.

11. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The detection unit is any one of an optical sensor, a magnetic sensor, and a vane switch.

12. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The driving direction of the valve mechanism is a direction of pivotal movement or a direction of linear movement.

13. The liquid ejection device of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The discharge portion is a print head configured to discharge ink.

14. The liquid ejection device of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The tube is a tube connected to a pump to be used in a recovery operation.

15. A method of controlling a liquid discharge apparatus including: a tube configured to establish communication of a flow path by connecting a discharge portion configured to discharge a liquid to a discharge target medium and a container configured to accommodate the liquid to be supplied to the discharge portion; a valve mechanism configured to switch between a closed state of pressurizing and occluding the tube and an open state of opening the tube in accordance with a rotational position of a cam member configured to be driven by a driving source; and a detection unit configured to detect whether the valve mechanism is in the closed state or in the open state, the method including: driving the driving source by a predetermined amount in a case where the valve mechanism is open; waiting for a predetermined standby period after driving the driving source; and obtaining, by the detection unit, a detection result of a detection target portion provided to the valve mechanism after the predetermined standby period elapses.

16. A liquid transfer apparatus including: a tube configured to form a flow path for transferring a liquid; a valve mechanism configured to switch between a closed state of pressurizing and occluding the tube and an open state of opening the tube in accordance with a rotational position of a cam member configured to be rotated by a driving source; and a detection unit configured to detect whether the valve mechanism is in the closed state or in the open state, the valve mechanism including a detection target portion, and the detection unit detects whether the valve mechanism is in the closed state or in the open state by detecting the detection target portion.

17. A method of controlling a liquid transfer apparatus including: a tube configured to form a flow path for transferring a liquid; a valve mechanism configured to switch between a closed state of pressurizing and occluding the tube and an open state of opening the tube in accordance with a rotational position of a cam member configured to be rotated by a driving source; and a detection unit configured to detect whether the valve mechanism is in the closed state or in the open state, the method including: driving the driving source by a predetermined amount in a case where the valve mechanism is open; waiting for a predetermined standby period after driving the driving source; and obtaining, by the detection unit, a detection result of a detection target portion provided to the valve mechanism after the predetermined standby period elapses. driving the drive source by a predetermined amount in a case where the valve mechanism is opened; waiting for a predetermined standby period after completion of driving of the drive source; and obtaining, by the detection unit, a detection result of a detection target portion provided to the valve mechanism after the predetermined standby period elapses.

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