Drying device, liquid-imparting system, and printing system

Abstract

The present invention provides a drying device, a liquid application system, and a printing system that suppresses a large size in a direction opposite to a substrate conveying surface. The drying device blows a heated gas against the substrate conveying surface in a substrate conveying path, and includes: a blowing unit (300) that forms a jet port (304) on a first surface (302) opposite to the substrate conveying surface; a heat source (322); and a fan motor (324) that blows a gas against the heat source to generate the heated gas, the blowing unit forming a heated gas flow inlet that receives supply of the heated gas on a second surface (306) that intersects the first surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a drying apparatus, a liquid dispensing system, and a printing system. Background Technology

[0002] An inkjet printing apparatus is known, which includes a drying device for drying paper and film substrates printed with color images. Patent Document 1 describes a drying device for drying ink adhering to a printing object such as continuous paper. The device described in that document blows air toward a heater disposed at a position opposite to the transport path of the continuous paper to dry the continuous paper with ink adhering to it.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-166258

[0004] However, the drying apparatus described in Patent Document 1 has the following problems. This apparatus directs air towards a heater positioned opposite the continuous paper transport path to reduce pressure and heat loss, and to achieve a uniform supply of airflow and heat. That is, the apparatus is based on a structure where a heater is assembled in a hot air drying unit equipped with a hot air outlet.

[0005] Patent Document 1 describes a structure that uniformly supplies air along the width of a continuous paper in a drying apparatus, preferably a structure in which multiple fans are arranged along the width of the continuous paper. This structure requires a number of fan motors corresponding to the total width of the continuous paper. For example, if the total width of the continuous paper is 800 mm, and if a fan motor of a common size with a width of approximately 60 mm is used, 14 fan motors are required in the width direction of the continuous paper.

[0006] Therefore, in the direction opposite to the continuous paper, there is a need for space to configure the fan motor corresponding to the thickness of the fan motor, raising concerns about the large size of the device in the same direction.

[0007] Furthermore, Patent Document 1 describes a structure in which an air supply duct is provided between the inlet of the heater frame and the fan, supplying air from a position away from the inlet. In this structure, it is necessary to design the air supply duct of the fan to deliver air evenly to the heater.

[0008] For example, designing the internal structure of the air supply duct, such as embedding the rectifier plate inside the duct, raises concerns about increased pressure loss and larger duct size. This larger duct size may consequently lead to a larger overall drying unit.

[0009] That is, the drying apparatus described in Patent Document 1 has the following problem: since the air supply structure for heating gas is arranged in a position facing the conveyor of the continuous paper, there is a concern that the apparatus will be large in the direction facing the conveyor of the continuous paper. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The present invention was made in view of this situation, and its object is to provide a drying apparatus, a liquid dispensing system and a printing system that suppress the enlargement of the drying apparatus, liquid dispensing system and printing system in the direction facing the substrate conveying surface.

[0011] To achieve the above objectives, the following inventive method is provided.

[0012] The drying apparatus of the present invention blows heated gas onto the substrate conveying surface in the substrate conveying path. The drying apparatus includes: an air supply unit forming a spray nozzle on a first surface facing the substrate conveying surface; a heat source; and a fan motor blowing gas onto the heat source to generate heated gas. The air supply unit forms a heated gas inlet on a second surface intersecting the first surface to receive the supply of heated gas.

[0013] According to the drying apparatus of the present invention, in the air supply unit, heated gas flows in from a heated gas inlet formed on a second surface not opposite to the substrate conveying surface, and is injected toward the substrate from a nozzle formed on a first surface opposite to the substrate conveying surface. This suppresses the enlargement of the air supply unit in the direction opposite to the substrate conveying surface.

[0014] Furthermore, the heat source and fan motor are positioned in a location that is not opposite to the substrate conveying surface, which can improve the efficiency of maintenance such as replacing the heat source and fan motor.

[0015] Preferably, the method is as follows: multiple injection nozzles are provided, and the multiple injection nozzles are arranged according to a specified configuration pattern in the substrate width direction orthogonal to the substrate conveying direction.

[0016] The planar shape of the nozzle can be any shape, such as circular or quadrilateral.

[0017] The nozzle can be formed at the front end of the protrusion protruding from the first surface, or it can be formed on the flat first surface.

[0018] In another type of drying apparatus, a heating gas supply unit is provided, which houses a heat source and a fan motor and supplies heating gas to an air supply unit. The heating gas supply unit includes: a heating gas supply port that communicates with a heating gas inlet formed in the air supply unit; and a first air inlet that draws in external gas from the heating gas supply unit.

[0019] In this way, the heat energy released from the heat source is recovered inside the heating gas supply unit, which allows the heat energy released from the heat source to circulate.

[0020] In another type of drying apparatus, there is a drying unit with an air supply unit disposed inside, and a heat source and a fan motor disposed outside the drying unit.

[0021] This method can extend the lifespan of fan motors, which is dependent on ambient temperature. Furthermore, it can improve the efficiency of maintenance tasks such as replacing heat sources and fan motors.

[0022] In another type of drying apparatus, a heating gas supply unit is provided, which houses a heat source and a fan motor and supplies heating gas to an air supply unit. The heating gas supply unit includes: a heating gas supply port that communicates with a heating gas inlet formed in the air supply unit; and a second air inlet that draws in heating gas from the drying unit.

[0023] In this way, heat energy can be circulated from the air supply unit to the heated gas supply unit.

[0024] In another type of drying apparatus, a heating gas recovery unit is provided, which is disposed inside the drying unit and recovers the heating gas blown out by the air supply unit. The heating gas recovery unit includes: a heating gas recovery port for recovering the heating gas blown out from the air supply unit; and a heating gas outlet for discharging the heating gas recovered through the heating gas recovery port and communicating with a second air inlet.

[0025] In this way, a heating gas recovery unit can be used to circulate heat energy from the air supply unit to the heating gas supply unit.

[0026] In another type of drying apparatus, the heating gas recovery port is divided into multiple inlet areas along its long side, and the heating gas outlet is divided into multiple exhaust areas corresponding to the multiple inlet areas in the heating gas recovery port. The heating gas recovery unit has multiple inlet flow paths that connect each of the multiple inlet areas to each of the multiple exhaust areas.

[0027] In this way, the generation of heat energy distribution in the heating gas recovery unit is suppressed along the long side of the heating gas recovery port, and heat energy can be recovered uniformly in this area of ​​the heating gas recovery port.

[0028] In another type of drying apparatus, the heating gas supply unit has a third air inlet for drawing in external gas from the heating gas supply unit.

[0029] In this way, a certain range of humidity can be maintained inside the heating gas supply unit.

[0030] In another type of drying apparatus, there is an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the volume of gas passing through the third air inlet per unit period.

[0031] In this way, the humidity inside the heating gas supply unit can be adjusted.

[0032] In another type of drying apparatus, there is: one or more processors; and sensors that detect at least one of the temperature and humidity of the gas passing through the third air inlet, and the processor controls the operation of the adjustment mechanism based on the detection results of the sensors.

[0033] In this way, the humidity inside the heating gas supply unit can be adjusted based on the sensor's detection results.

[0034] The liquid application system of the present invention comprises: a liquid application device for applying liquid to a substrate; and a drying device for blowing heated gas onto a substrate transport surface in a substrate transport path to dry the liquid-applied substrate. The drying device comprises: an air supply unit having a nozzle formed on a first surface facing the substrate transport surface; a heat source; and a fan motor for blowing gas onto the heat source to generate heated gas. The air supply unit has a heated gas inlet formed on a second surface intersecting the first surface for receiving the supply of heated gas.

[0035] The liquid supply system according to the present invention can achieve the same effects as the drying apparatus according to the present invention. The constituent elements of a drying apparatus according to another embodiment can be applied to the constituent elements of a liquid supply system according to another embodiment.

[0036] In another liquid supply system, air supply units are respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the substrate conveying surface.

[0037] In this way, drying can be performed on both sides of the substrate.

[0038] In another liquid delivery system, multiple air supply units are provided, which are arranged along the substrate delivery path.

[0039] This method can improve the efficiency of the drying process.

[0040] In another liquid supply system, there is one or more processors, and the drying apparatus has multiple heating gas supply units. Each heating gas supply unit has a heat source and a fan motor internally configured and supplies heating gas to each of the multiple air supply units. Each heating gas supply unit has a third air inlet for drawing in external gas from the heating gas supply unit; and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the volume of gas passing through the third air inlet per unit period. The processor controls the operation of the adjustment mechanism so that the volume of gas passing through the third air inlet of the heating gas supply unit located downstream in the substrate transport direction in the substrate transport path is less than the volume of gas passing through the third air inlet of the heating gas supply unit located upstream in the substrate transport direction.

[0041] This method can improve the efficiency of the drying process.

[0042] The printing system of the present invention comprises: a printing apparatus for printing an image on a substrate; and a drying apparatus for blowing heated gas onto a substrate conveying surface in a substrate conveying path to dry the substrate with the printed image. The drying apparatus comprises: an air supply unit having a nozzle formed on a first surface facing the substrate conveying surface; a heat source; and a fan motor for blowing gas onto the heat source to generate heated gas. The air supply unit has a heated gas inlet formed on a second surface intersecting the first surface to receive the supply of heated gas.

[0043] The printing system according to the present invention can achieve the same effects as the drying apparatus according to the present invention. The constituent elements of a drying apparatus according to another embodiment can be applied to the constituent elements of a printing system according to another embodiment.

[0044] Invention Effects

[0045] According to the present invention, in the air supply unit, heated gas flows in from a heated gas inlet formed on a second surface not opposite to the substrate conveying surface, and is injected toward the substrate from a nozzle formed on a first surface opposite to the substrate conveying surface. This suppresses the enlargement of the air supply unit in the direction opposite to the substrate conveying surface.

[0046] Furthermore, the heat source and fan motor are positioned in a location that is not opposite to the substrate conveying surface, which can improve the efficiency of maintenance such as replacing the heat source and fan motor. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram of the inkjet printing system involved in the implementation method.

[0048] Figure 2 It means Figure 1The diagram shows the functional block diagram of the electrical structure of the inkjet printing system.

[0049] Figure 3 It means Figure 2 A block diagram illustrating the hardware structure of the electrical structure shown.

[0050] Figure 4 This is a front view showing a structural example of the drying module according to the first embodiment.

[0051] Figure 5 It means Figure 4 A front view of a modified example of the drying module shown.

[0052] Figure 6 This is a top view showing a structural example of the drying module according to the second embodiment.

[0053] Figure 7 This is a bottom view showing a structural example of the drying module according to the third embodiment.

[0054] Figure 8 It means Figure 7 A perspective view of the internal structure of the drying module shown.

[0055] Figure 9 This is a bottom view showing a structural example of the drying module according to the fourth embodiment.

[0056] Figure 10 This is a side view of a drying apparatus, illustrating a structural example of the drying apparatus according to the fifth embodiment.

[0057] Figure 11 This is a side view of a drying apparatus showing an example of the configuration of the drying module.

[0058] Figure 12 This is a side view of a drying apparatus showing a modified example of a drying module.

[0059] Figure 13 This is a table that shows the evaluation results of the thickness of the metal plate applicable to the nozzle unit.

[0060] Figure 14 This is a table showing the evaluation results of the structure applicable to the nozzle unit. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same constituent elements, and repeated descriptions are omitted where appropriate.

[0062] [Overall structure of an inkjet printing system]

[0063] Figure 1This is an overall structural diagram of the inkjet printing system involved in the implementation method. Additionally, Figure 1 The arrows shown indicate the transport direction of the film substrate 1 in each device of the inkjet printing system 10, i.e., the substrate transport direction. The substrate transport direction indicates the direction in which the film substrate 1 travels.

[0064] The inkjet printing system 10 is a single-pass printing system that uses water-based color inks to print color images onto the film substrate 1. The film substrate 1 is a transparent, non-permeable medium used for flexible packaging.

[0065] Examples of film substrate 1 include ONY (Oriented Nylon), OPP (Oriented Polypropylene), and PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate). The inkjet printing system 10 produces a back-printed image of the film substrate 1, visually recognizable from the substrate support surface 1B on the side opposite to the printing surface 1A. The inkjet printing system 10 can also produce a surface-printed image, visually recognizable from the printing surface 1A.

[0066] Non-permeable means non-permeable to water-based primers and water-based inks described later. Flexible packaging refers to packaging made of materials that deform according to the shape of the packaged items. Transparent means that the transmittance of visible light is 30% or more and 100% or less, preferably 70% or more and 100% or less.

[0067] The inkjet printing system 10 includes a paper feeding device 12, a pre-coating device 14, an inkjet device 16, a drying device 18, an inspection device 20, a recycling device 22, and a conveying device 24. Each part will be described in detail below.

[0068] [Paper feeding device]

[0069] The inkjet printing system 10 is suitable for roll-to-roll feeding. The paper feeding device 12 has a feed roller wound with the film substrate 1 before the printed image. The feed roller has a reel that is rotatably supported.

[0070] The paper feeding device 12 may be equipped with a corona treatment device for modifying the printing surface 1A of the film substrate 1. The modified printing surface 1A of the film substrate 1 has a surface free energy suitable for a water-based mixture of water-based primer and water-based ink, which can ensure suitable wetting properties for the water-based mixture. The film substrate 1 is conveyed to the pre-coating device 14.

[0071] [Pre-coating device]

[0072] The pre-coating device 14 is positioned downstream of the paper feeding device 12 and upstream of the spraying device 16 in the substrate conveying direction. The pre-coating device 14 applies a pre-coating liquid to the printing surface 1A of the film substrate 1.

[0073] The pre-coating device 14 may include a pre-coating drying device. The pre-coating drying device dries the pre-coating liquid applied to the film substrate 1. The pre-coating liquid may be a liquid containing components that insoluble or thicken water-based inks, such as a water-based primer. The film substrate 1, to which the pre-coating liquid has been applied and dried, is conveyed to the spraying device 16. The pre-coating drying device may have the same structure as the drying device described later.

[0074] [Jet device]

[0075] The jetting device 16 is equipped with inkjet heads 30K, 30C, 30M, 30Y and 30W.

[0076] The inkjet head 30K, inkjet head 30C, inkjet head 30M, inkjet head 30Y, and inkjet head 30W respectively emit black ink, cyan ink, magenta ink, yellow ink, and white ink. Hereinafter, unless there is a need to distinguish between inkjet heads such as 30K, they will be referred to as inkjet head 30.

[0077] Water-based ink ejected from the inkjet head 30 refers to ink in which pigments and other colorants are dissolved or dispersed in a water-soluble solvent. The pigments used in water-based inks are organic pigments. The viscosity of water-based inks is 0.5 centipoise or higher and 5.0 centipoise or lower.

[0078] The inkjet head 30 ejects colored ink onto the printing surface 1A of the film substrate 1, which is conveyed by the transport device 24, to print a colored image on the film substrate 1. White ink forms a white background image on the film substrate 1. Alternatively, multiple inkjet heads 30W can be provided that eject water-based white ink.

[0079] The inkjet head 30 is configured and oriented such that the nozzle surface from which the ink is ejected is positioned and oriented opposite to the substrate transport surface of the substrate transport path, which serves as the transport path for the film substrate 1. The inkjet heads 30 are arranged at equal intervals along the substrate transport direction.

[0080] The inkjet head 30 has multiple nozzles. Each nozzle may include a nozzle opening and an ink flow path. Each nozzle of the inkjet head 30 has an energy generating element. The nozzle surface of the inkjet head 30 has nozzle openings arranged in two dimensions. A waterproof membrane is formed on the nozzle surface of the inkjet head 30.

[0081] The energy generating element can be a piezoelectric element. The inkjet head 30 equipped with a piezoelectric element utilizes the bending deformation of the piezoelectric element to eject ink droplets from the nozzle opening. The energy generating element can be a heater. The inkjet head 30 equipped with a heater utilizes the film boiling phenomenon of ink to eject ink droplets from the nozzle opening.

[0082] The inkjet head 30 is suitable for use as a line head, in which multiple nozzles are arranged along the total length of the film substrate 1 in the width direction of the substrate. Alternatively, the inkjet head 30 can be used as a serial head.

[0083] The linear inkjet head 30 can be used in structures where multiple printhead modules are connected in the width direction of the substrate. The width direction of the substrate is orthogonal to the substrate transport direction and parallel to the printing surface of the film substrate 1.

[0084] Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a method for using four colors of water-based colored inks, but the ink colors are not limited to black, cyan, magenta, and yellow. For example, it can be used with light-colored inks such as bright magenta and bright cyan, as well as with special colors such as green, orange, purple, transparent, and metallic inks. Furthermore, the arrangement order of the inkjet heads for each color is not limited to... Figure 1 The example provided.

[0085] The spraying device 16 includes a scanner 32. The scanner 32 includes a camera that captures an image of the test pattern printed on the printed surface of the film substrate 1 and converts the image into an electrical signal.

[0086] Examples of imaging devices include CCD image sensors and color CMOS image sensors. CCD stands for Charge Coupled Device, and CMOS stands for Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor.

[0087] The image data output from scanner 32 is sent to the test pattern determination unit. The test pattern determination unit performs tasks such as determining defective nozzles based on the image data of the test pattern. Additionally, the test pattern determination unit is illustrated with additional symbol 172. Figure 2 middle.

[0088] The membrane substrate 1, whose test pattern image was captured by scanner 32, is conveyed to drying device 18.

[0089] [Drying apparatus]

[0090] The drying apparatus 18 is positioned downstream of the spraying device 16 in the substrate conveying direction and upstream of the inspection device 20 in the substrate conveying direction. The drying apparatus 18 includes a drying module for drying water-based ink adhering to the printing surface 1A of the film substrate 1.

[0091] The film substrate 1, after the water-based ink has dried, is conveyed to the inspection device 20. Details of the drying device will be described later.

[0092] [Inspect equipment]

[0093] The inspection device 20 is positioned downstream of the drying device 18 in the substrate conveying direction and upstream of the recycling device 22 in the substrate conveying direction. The inspection device 20 inspects the image printed on the film substrate 1 for defects.

[0094] The inspection apparatus 20 includes a camera for capturing images printed on the film substrate 1 and an illumination device for illuminating the film substrate 1. The image data of the printed image is sent to the printed image determination unit. The printed image determination unit determines whether the printed image has defects based on the image data. Additionally, the printed image determination unit is illustrated by reference numeral 173. Figure 2 middle.

[0095] The membrane substrate 1, after being inspected by camera using inspection device 20, is transported to recycling device 22.

[0096] [Recycling Device]

[0097] The recycling device 22 recycles the film substrate 1 printed with images. Specifically, the film substrate 1 printed with images is wound onto a roll roller.

[0098] [Conveying device]

[0099] The conveying device 24 is suitable for roll-to-roll operation. From the paper feeding device 12 to the recycling device 22, the conveying device 24 conveys the film substrate 1 along the substrate conveying path in the substrate conveying direction in the order of paper feeding device 12, pre-coating device 14, spraying device 16, drying device 18, inspection device 20, and recycling device 22. The paper feeding device 12 and the recycling device 22 may be included in the conveying device 24.

[0100] The conveying device 24 has multiple transfer rollers 34. One or more transfer rollers 34 are respectively provided in the paper feeding device 12, the pre-coating device 14, the spraying device 16, the drying device 18, the inspection device 20 and the recycling device 22.

[0101] The conveying device 24 includes one or more tension pickups 36 respectively installed in the paper feeding device 12, pre-coating device 14, spraying device 16, drying device 18, inspection device 20, and recycling device 22. The tension pickups 36 detect the tension applied to the film substrate 1. The detection signal from the tension pickups 36 is sent to the conveying control unit. The conveying control unit is illustrated using the symbol 162. Figure 2 In. Figure 1The figure shows the tension sensor 36 provided by the jetting device 16, while the figure of the tension sensor 36 provided by the paper feeding device 12 and the like is omitted.

[0102] Electrical structure of an inkjet printing system

[0103] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows a functional block diagram of the electrical structure of the inkjet printing system. The inkjet printing system 10 includes a system control unit 160, a transport control unit 162, a pre-coating control unit 164, a jetting control unit 166, a drying control unit 168, an inspection control unit 170, a test pattern determination unit 172, and a printed image determination unit 173.

[0104] The system control unit 160 centrally controls the overall operation of the inkjet printing system 10. The system control unit 160 sends command signals to various control units. The system control unit 160 functions as a memory controller, controlling the storage of data in the memory 174 and the retrieval of data from the memory 174.

[0105] The system control unit 160 acquires the sensor signal sent from the sensor 176 and sends the command signal based on the sensor signal to various control units. Figure 2 The sensor 176 shown includes Figure 1 The tension sensor 36 is shown. Furthermore, the sensor 176 includes position detection sensors and temperature sensors, etc., which are present in various parts of the inkjet printing system 10.

[0106] The conveying control unit 162 sets the conveying conditions according to the command signal sent from the system control unit 160, and controls the operation of the conveying device 24 according to the set conveying conditions. For example, the conveying control unit 162 applies the conveying conditions applicable to the conveying device 24 to control the operation of the motors connected to the drive rollers or the like of the conveying device 24.

[0107] Furthermore, the transport control unit 162 individually controls the transport tension applied to the film substrate 1 in each section of the inkjet printing system 10, including the pre-coating device 14 and the jetting device 16. That is, the transport control unit 162 controls the transport tension of the film substrate 1 in each section from the paper feeding device 12 to the recycling device 22.

[0108] The pre-coating control unit 164 sets the processing conditions for the pre-coating process according to the instruction signal sent from the system control unit 160, and controls the operation of the pre-coating device 14 according to the set processing conditions.

[0109] The jetting control unit 166 sets the printing conditions according to the command signal sent from the system control unit 160, and controls the operation of the jetting device 16 according to the set printing conditions.

[0110] The jetting control unit 166 includes an image processing unit that performs color separation processing, color conversion processing, correction processing for each process, and halftone processing on the printing data to generate halftone data based on the printing data.

[0111] The jet control unit 166 includes a drive voltage generating unit that generates the drive voltage supplied to the inkjet head 30. The jet control unit 166 also includes a drive voltage output unit that supplies the drive voltage to the inkjet head 30.

[0112] The drying control unit 168 sets the processing conditions suitable for the drying process of the drying device 18 according to the instruction signal sent from the system control unit 160, and controls the operation of the drying device 18 according to the set processing conditions.

[0113] The inspection control unit 170 sets inspection conditions applicable to the inspection device 20 based on the command signals sent from the system control unit 160, and controls the operation of the inspection device 20 according to the set inspection conditions.

[0114] The test pattern determination unit 172 acquires and analyzes the camera data of the test pattern. Based on the analysis results, the test pattern determination unit 172 determines whether the inkjet head 30 has any ejection abnormalities.

[0115] The printing image determination unit 173 acquires and analyzes the photographic data of the printing image. Based on the analysis results, the printing image determination unit 173 determines whether there are image defects in the printing image.

[0116] Figure 3 It means Figure 2 The block diagram shows an example of the hardware structure of the electrical structure. The control device 200 of the inkjet printing system 10 includes a processor 202, a non-transitory tangible computer-readable medium 204, a communication interface 206, and an input / output interface 208.

[0117] The control device 200 is compatible with a computer. The computer may be a server, a personal computer, a workstation, or a tablet terminal, etc.

[0118] Processor 202 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Processor 202 may include a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). Processor 202 is connected to computer-readable medium 204, communication interface 206, and input / output interface 208 via bus 210. Input device 214 and display device 216 are connected to bus 210 via input / output interface 208.

[0119] Computer-readable medium 204 includes memory as a primary storage device and storage memory as an auxiliary storage device. Computer-readable medium 204 can be adapted to semiconductor memory, hard disk drives, and solid-state drives, etc. Computer-readable medium 204 can be adapted to any combination of multiple devices.

[0120] Additionally, hard disk drives (HDD) are abbreviated as Hard Disk Drives, while solid-state drives (SSDs) are abbreviated as Solid State Drives.

[0121] The control device 200 is connected to a network via a communication interface 206 and can communicate with external devices. The network can be a LAN (Local Area Network) or similar. (A diagram of the network is omitted.)

[0122] Computer-readable medium 204 stores transport control program 220, pre-coating control program 222, spraying control program 224, drying control program 226, inspection control program 228, and test pattern determination program 230.

[0123] Conveyor control program 220 corresponds to the applicable Figure 2 The conveying control of the conveying device 24 is shown. The pre-coating control program 222 corresponds to the pre-coating control applicable to the pre-coating device 14.

[0124] The jetting control program 224 corresponds to the printing control applicable to the jetting device 16. The drying control program 226 corresponds to the drying control applicable to the drying device 18.

[0125] Inspection control procedure 228 corresponds to the inspection of the printed image applicable to inspection device 20. Test pattern determination procedure 230 is applicable to the determination of output anomalies based on the camera data of the test pattern.

[0126] The various programs stored in the computer-readable medium 204 include one or more commands. The computer-readable medium 204 stores various data and parameters, etc. Additionally, Figure 2 The memory 174 shown includes Figure 3 In the computer-readable medium 204 shown.

[0127] In the inkjet printing system 10, the processor 202 executes various programs stored in the computer-readable medium 204 to implement various functions of the inkjet printing system 10. Furthermore, the term "program" has the same meaning as the term "software".

[0128] The control device 200 communicates with external devices via the communication interface 206. The communication interface 206 can be compatible with various standards such as USB (Universal Serial Bus). The communication method of the communication interface 206 can be either wired or wireless communication.

[0129] The control device 200 is connected to an input device 214 and a display device 216 via an input / output interface 208. The input device 214 is compatible with input devices such as a keyboard and mouse. The display device 216 displays various information applicable to the control device 200.

[0130] The display device 216 can be used with liquid crystal displays, organic EL displays, projectors, etc. The display device 216 can be used with any combination of multiple devices. Furthermore, EL in organic EL displays is an abbreviation for Electro-Luminescence.

[0131] Here, as examples of the hardware structure of processor 202, CPU, GPU, PLD (Programmable Logic Device), and ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) can be cited. CPU is a general-purpose processor that executes programs and performs various functions. GPU is a processor dedicated to image processing.

[0132] PLDs are processors whose circuit structure can be changed after the device is manufactured. An example of a PLD is an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). ASICs are processors with dedicated circuitry specifically designed to perform particular processes.

[0133] A processing unit can consist of one of these various processors, or it can consist of two or more processors of the same or different types. Examples of combinations of various processors include combinations of one or more FPGAs with one or more CPUs, and combinations of one or more FPGAs with one or more GPUs. Another example of a combination of various processors is a combination of one or more CPUs with one or more GPUs.

[0134] A single processor can be used to construct multiple functional units. As an example of using a single processor to construct multiple functional units, one can cite the combination of one or more CPUs and software in a System-on-a-Chip (SoC), such as a computer representing a client or server, to construct a single processor and enable that processor to function as multiple functional units.

[0135] As another example of using a single processor to comprise multiple functional units, one could cite the method of using a processor that implements the functionality of the entire system, including multiple functional units, through the use of a single IC chip. Additionally, IC is an abbreviation for Integrated Circuit.

[0136] Thus, each functional unit is constructed using one or more of the aforementioned processors as its hardware structure. Furthermore, more specifically, the hardware structure of these processors is a circuit composed of semiconductor elements and other circuitry.

[0137] Computer-readable medium 204 may include semiconductor elements such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). Computer-readable medium 204 may include magnetic storage media such as hard disks. Computer-readable medium 204 may possess various storage media.

[0138] Furthermore, the inkjet printing system 10 described in the embodiments is an example of a liquid application system. The pre-coating device 14 and the jetting device 16 described in the embodiments are examples of liquid application devices.

[0139] [Detailed Description of the Drying Equipment]

[0140] [First Implementation Method]

[0141] Figure 4 This is a front view showing a structural example of the drying module according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 The symbol X indicates the width direction of the substrate. And the symbol Z indicates the vertical direction. Regarding... Figures 5 to 9 The symbols X and Z shown are also the same.

[0142] The drying module 1801 includes a nozzle unit 300 and a heater unit 320. In the heater unit 320, which differs from the nozzle unit 300, the drying module 1801 generates a heated gas within a predetermined temperature range and supplies the heated gas to the nozzle unit 300. The heated gas can be air.

[0143] The heater unit 320 is positioned at a non-opposite location on the substrate transport path, which is not directly opposite to the substrate transport path. Furthermore, the heater unit 320 is positioned close to the nozzle unit 300. This reduces both the pressure loss and heat loss of the heating gas. Figure 4 The heater unit 320 shown is attached to one end 301, i.e., the side 306, of the substrate width direction of the nozzle unit 300.

[0144] exist Figure 4 The example shown is a way in which the side surface 306 of the nozzle unit 300 is joined to one end of the substrate of the heater unit 320 in the width direction, namely the gas supply port arrangement surface 327. However, the nozzle unit 300 and the heater unit 320 can also be joined by a pipe of a length that does not affect the flow of heating gas.

[0145] The nozzle unit 300 has a structure that enables uniform supply of heating gas to multiple nozzles 304, automatically achieving uniform heat supply to the multiple nozzles 304. Furthermore, the term "uniform" here may include deviations within a specified error range.

[0146] The nozzle unit 300 has a cuboid shape and a length exceeding the total length of the membrane substrate 1 in the substrate width direction. Multiple nozzles 304 are arranged on a nozzle arrangement surface 302 facing the substrate transport surface. The multiple nozzles 304 are arranged with a length exceeding the total length of the membrane substrate 1 in the substrate width direction. A two-dimensional arrangement can be given as an example of the arrangement of the multiple nozzles 304 on the nozzle arrangement surface 302. An example of a two-dimensional arrangement of the multiple nozzles 304 is illustrated in [illustration missing]. Figure 7 middle.

[0147] The nozzle 304 has a protruding shape extending from the nozzle mounting surface 302, and a nozzle opening is formed at its front end. The nozzle 304 blows heated gas, i.e., heated gas, towards the printing surface 1A of the film substrate 1 through the nozzle opening. The downward arrow line attached to the nozzle 304 indicates the airflow direction of the heated gas. In addition, the blowing out of heated gas is the same concept as the jetting, blowing, and emission of heated gas.

[0148] exist Figure 4 The illustration shows a nozzle 304 with a protruding shape extending from the nozzle mounting surface 302, but the nozzle 304 can also be used for an opening formed on a flat nozzle mounting surface 302. The planar shape of the nozzle opening can be any shape such as a circle or a quadrilateral.

[0149] In the nozzle unit 300, a through hole is formed on a side surface 306 that is orthogonal to the nozzle arrangement surface 302 and parallel to the substrate conveying direction, serving as a heating gas inlet 308 for receiving the supply of heating gas. The nozzle unit 300 allows the heating gas generated in the heater unit 320 to flow in through the heating gas inlet 308.

[0150] Furthermore, the nozzle arrangement surface 302 described in the embodiment is an example of a first surface. The side surface 306 described in the embodiment is an example of a second surface intersecting the first surface. The nozzle 304 described in the embodiment is an example of a spray port.

[0151] The heater unit 320 includes a heater 322 and an axial fan 324. The heater 322 and the axial fan 324 are arranged in sequence in the direction away from the heated gas inlet 308.

[0152] Heater 322 heats the gas surrounding it, i.e., air, at a predetermined set temperature. Infrared heaters, etc., can be used for heater 322. Axial fan 324 delivers air to heater 322 according to predetermined airflow conditions, thereby generating heated gas. Figure 4 The rightward arrow indicates the airflow direction of the axial fan 324.

[0153] The heater unit 320 has a heating gas supply port 326 at a position corresponding to the heating gas inlet 308 of the nozzle unit 300. The heating gas supply port 326 is formed in the gas supply port arrangement surface 327 of the heater housing 323, which includes the heater 322. The heating gas supply port 326 has an opening shape and opening area corresponding to the heating gas inlet 308. For example, the heating gas supply port 326 can have the same shape and the same size as the heating gas inlet 308.

[0154] The drying module 1801 has the following structure: the side 306 of the nozzle unit 300 contacts the gas supply port arrangement surface 327 of the heater unit 320, so that the heating gas inlet 308 of the nozzle unit 300 is engaged with the heating gas supply port 326 of the heater unit 320.

[0155] A drying module 1801, including a nozzle unit 300 and a heater unit 320, is disposed inside a drying oven 330. The drying oven 330 includes a transport path for the membrane substrate 1 to be dried using the drying module 1801.

[0156] In this way, heat loss can be reduced throughout the drying module 1801. For example, the drying module 1801 can be configured inside the drying oven 330, taking into account factors such as the lifespan of the axial fan 324 and thus requiring a relatively low heating temperature.

[0157] Furthermore, the drying oven 330 described in the embodiment is an example of a drying unit. The nozzle unit 300 described in the embodiment is an example of an air supply unit. The heater unit 320 described in the embodiment is an example of a heated gas supply unit. Also, the heater 322 described in the embodiment is an example of a heat source. The axial fan 324 described in the embodiment is an example of a fan motor.

[0158] Figure 5 It means Figure 4The front view of a modified example of the drying module shown. In the modified example of the drying module 1801A, the nozzle unit 300 is disposed inside the drying oven 330A, and the heater unit 320 is disposed outside the drying oven 330A.

[0159] That is, the drying oven 330A has an opening 332, which has a size corresponding to the heating gas inlet 308 and a configuration corresponding to the heating gas inlet 308. In one end 331 of the drying oven 330A in the substrate width direction, the opening 332 is aligned with the heating gas supply port 326 and connected to a heater unit 320.

[0160] According to the drying module 1801A involved in the modified example, maintenance such as replacement of the heater unit 320 can be effectively performed. Furthermore, the drying oven 330A described in the embodiment is an example of a drying unit.

[0161] [Second Implementation]

[0162] Figure 6 This is a top view showing a structural example of the drying module according to the second embodiment. The drying module 1802 according to the second embodiment has a circulation structure that recirculates the heating gas generated in the heater unit 320.

[0163] Figure 6 The heater unit 320 shown is disposed outside the drying oven 330A. The heater 322 and axial fan 324 constituting the heater unit 320 are housed inside the heating gas generating chamber 360. Thus, the axial fan 324 can blow the heating gas inside the heating gas generating chamber 360 toward the nozzle unit 300 without causing the heat generated by the heater 322 to escape to the outside of the heating gas generating chamber 360.

[0164] The heated gas generating chamber 360 has a first air inlet 362 for drawing in external gas. The first air inlet 362 can be disposed on any surface constituting the heated gas generating chamber 360. Figure 6 The diagram shows the arrangement of the first air inlet 362 on the surface opposite to the air intake surface of the axial fan 324.

[0165] [Third Implementation Method]

[0166] Figure 7 This is a bottom view showing a structural example of the drying module according to the third embodiment. Figure 8 It means Figure 7 A perspective view of the internal structure of the drying module shown. Figure 7 and Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the drying module 1803 viewed from the bottom to the top in a vertical direction.

[0167] In addition, Figure 7 and Figure 8 The diagram of the drying oven with the built-in nozzle unit 300 is omitted. Furthermore, Figure 7 and Figure 8 The symbols X, Y, and Z represent the substrate width direction, the substrate conveying direction in the drying module 1803, and the vertical direction, respectively.

[0168] A heating gas recovery unit 370 is disposed downstream of the nozzle unit 300 in the substrate conveying direction in the drying module 1803. The heating gas recovery unit 370 has a heating gas outlet 372 formed on one end face 371 in the substrate width direction for discharging heating gas. Additionally, in Figure 8 The diagram of heating gas outlet 372 is omitted.

[0169] The heating gas recovery unit 370 forms a heating gas recovery port 376 on the substrate facing surface 374, which is opposite to the substrate conveying surface. The heating gas recovery port 376 has a rectangular planar shape, and the length in the substrate width direction corresponds to the length of the nozzle 304.

[0170] A second air inlet 364 is formed on the other end face 361 in the width direction of the substrate of the heating gas generating box 360A. The second air inlet 364 is disposed at a position corresponding to the heating gas outlet 372 and has an opening shape and size corresponding to the heating gas outlet 372. For example, the second air inlet 364 can be of the same shape and size as the heating gas outlet 372.

[0171] When one end face 371 of the heated gas recovery unit 370 is brought into contact with the other end face 361 of the heated gas generating box 360, the second air inlet 364 is aligned with the heated gas outlet 372.

[0172] In the drying module 1803 with this structure, the heated gas blown out from the nozzle unit 300 is recovered to the heated gas recovery unit 370 via the heated gas recovery port 376. The heated gas recovered to the heated gas recovery unit 370 is then recovered to the heated gas generating box 360A via the heated gas discharge port 372 and the second air inlet 364.

[0173] Thus, the high-temperature heating gas inside the drying oven, which contains the nozzle unit 300 and the heating gas recovery unit 370, is drawn into the heating gas generation box 360A for thermal energy circulation, and the drying module 1803 achieves energy-saving effect.

[0174] The axial fan 324 functions as an airflow source that circulates heated gas from the heated gas generating box 360A through the nozzle unit 300 and the heated gas recovery unit 370 back to the heated gas generating box 360A.

[0175] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, a cuboid shape and a hollow structure are illustrated as examples of the shape and structure of the heating gas recovery unit 370. The heating gas recovery unit 370 can be positioned upstream of the nozzle unit 300 in the substrate conveying direction.

[0176] like Figure 7 As shown, the heating gas recovery port 376 is divided into three parts along the long side of the heating gas recovery unit 370, i.e., along the width of the substrate. Specifically, the heating gas recovery port 376 is divided into a first air intake area 376A, a second air intake area 376B, and a third air intake area 376C.

[0177] The heating gas recovery unit 370 includes a first intake air passage 378A connected to a first intake region 376A, a second intake air passage 378B connected to a second intake region 376B, and a third intake air passage 378C connected to a third intake region 376C.

[0178] That is, the heated gas recovery unit 370 includes a first partition wall 379A that separates the first air intake path 378A from the second air intake path 378B, and a second partition wall 379B that separates the second air intake path 378B from the third air intake region 376C.

[0179] The heated gas outlet 372 is divided into a first exhaust region 372A connected to the first intake airflow path 378A, a second exhaust region 372B connected to the second intake airflow path 378B, and a third exhaust region 372C connected to the third intake airflow path 378C.

[0180] The heated gas drawn from the first intake region 376A is recovered into the heated gas generating box 360A via the first intake flow path 378A and the first exhaust region 372A. Furthermore, the heated gas drawn from the second intake region 376B is recovered into the heated gas generating box 360A via the second intake flow path 378B and the second exhaust region 372B.

[0181] Furthermore, the heated gas drawn from the third intake area 376C is recovered to the heated gas generating box 360A via the third intake air passage 378C and the third exhaust area 372C. The axial fan 324 functions as an airflow source to circulate the heated gas from the heated gas generating box 360A through the nozzle unit 300 and the heated gas recovery unit 370.

[0182] In addition, Figure 7In the diagram, the arrows shown in the first inlet airflow path 378A, the second inlet airflow path 378B, and the third inlet airflow path 378C schematically represent the heated gas recovered to the heated gas generating box 360A via the heated gas recovery port 376. Furthermore, in Figure 8 In the diagram, multiple curves are used to schematically represent the flow of the heating gas, and arrows are used to indicate the overall direction of the heating gas flow.

[0183] When gas is introduced into the heated gas recovery unit 370 via the heated gas recovery port 376, the suction volume per unit period tends to be relatively larger on the side closer to the axial fan 324, i.e., the first intake region 376A, compared to the side farther from the axial fan 324, i.e., the second intake region 376B. Therefore, the heated gas discharge port 372 is divided into multiple regions, each region having a flow path for heated gas, i.e., a first intake flow path 378A, etc.

[0184] Therefore, when air enters from the heating gas recovery port 376, the deviation in the air intake per unit period in the substrate width direction is suppressed, achieving uniform air intake in the same direction. The number of segments of the heating gas recovery port 376 and the heating gas discharge port 372 is not limited to... Figure 7 The example provided can be applied to any number of partitions.

[0185] Furthermore, the first air intake region 376A, the second air intake region 376B, and the third air intake region 376C described in the embodiment are examples of multiple air intake regions divided along the long side of the heated gas recovery port.

[0186] Furthermore, the first exhaust region 372A, the second exhaust region 372B, and the third exhaust region 372C described in the embodiment are examples of multiple exhaust regions that are divided in correspondence between the heated gas exhaust port and multiple air intake regions.

[0187] Furthermore, the first intake airflow path 378A, the second intake airflow path 378B, and the third intake airflow path 378C described in the embodiments are examples of intake airflow paths that constitute multiple intake airflow paths.

[0188] [Fourth Implementation Method]

[0189] Figure 9 This is a bottom view showing a structural example of the drying module according to the fourth embodiment. The drying module 1804 according to the fourth embodiment controls the volume of heating gas circulating from the heating gas recovery unit 370 to the heating gas generation box 360B per unit period.

[0190] The heated gas recovery unit 370 is suitable for a complete cycle in which all heated gases blown from the nozzle 304 to the film substrate 1 are recovered via the heated gas recovery port 376. When multiple drying modules 1804 are provided and arranged along the substrate transport direction, the amount of evaporated water in the drying module 1804 located upstream in the substrate transport direction is relatively increased compared to the drying module 1804 located downstream in the same direction, potentially leading to a relatively higher humidity level. There is a concern that this increased humidity may reduce the efficiency of the drying process.

[0191] The drying module 1804 has a third air inlet 380 on the heated gas generating chamber 360B. Fresh gas is drawn from the outside of the drying module 1804 through the third air inlet 380 into the heated gas generating chamber 360B, and the internal humidity is adjusted.

[0192] The third air intake 380 is equipped with an opening area adjustment mechanism 382 for adjusting the opening area. The opening area adjustment mechanism 382 may include a baffle and a baffle driving mechanism for driving the baffle.

[0193] The third air intake 380 can be configured to have multiple openings. In the configuration where the third air intake 380 has multiple openings, the opening area adjustment mechanism 382 can be configured to selectively block one or more of the multiple openings.

[0194] The third air inlet 380 may have a pressure loss adjustment mechanism in the third air inlet 380 to replace the opening area adjustment mechanism 382, ​​or may be used in conjunction with the opening area adjustment mechanism 382. Furthermore, a diagram of the pressure loss adjustment mechanism is omitted. Figure 2 The drying control unit 168 shown implements drive control, etc., in the opening area adjustment mechanism 382 and pressure loss adjustment mechanism, etc.

[0195] The drying module 1804 is equipped with at least one of a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor to detect at least one of the temperature and humidity inside the heated gas generating box 360B. Based on the detection results, it can control the operation of the opening area adjustment mechanism 382, ​​etc.

[0196] Preferably, the temperature sensor or the like is positioned near the second air inlet 364. As an example of a position near the second air inlet 364, the surface 366 on the inner side of the end face 361 of the second air inlet 364 can be mentioned. Figure 2 The sensor 176 shown includes the temperature sensor and other sensors included in the heated gas generating chamber 360B.

[0197] Furthermore, the opening area adjustment mechanism 382 described in the embodiment is an example of an adjustment mechanism that adjusts the volume of gas passing through the third air inlet per unit period.

[0198] [Fifth Implementation]

[0199] Figure 10 This is a side view of a drying apparatus illustrating a structural example of the drying apparatus according to the fifth embodiment. Furthermore, this figure schematically illustrates an example of the internal structure of the drying oven 330A included in the drying apparatus 18. The figure also shows the nozzle unit 300 disposed inside the drying oven 330A, while the heater unit 320 disposed outside the drying oven 330A is omitted. The arrows shown in this figure indicate the substrate conveying direction.

[0200] Figure 10 The drying apparatus 18 shown defines a circular substrate transport path that causes the film substrate 1 to circulate inside the drying oven 330A. Inside the drying oven 330A, a plurality of transfer rollers 34 are arranged along the substrate transport path.

[0201] Furthermore, a drive roller 38 is arranged inside the drying oven 330A. The substrate transport path is turned back at the position of the drive roller 38. This ensures the required length of the substrate transport path during the drying of the film substrate 1 and makes the drying oven 330A compact in size.

[0202] exist Figure 10 The example illustrates a configuration in which 32 nozzle units 300 are distributed within the drying oven 330A. Furthermore, the number of nozzle units 300 disposed within the drying oven 330A can be appropriately determined based on factors such as the length of the conveying path and the size of the nozzle units 300.

[0203] The drying apparatus 18 with this structure performs the drying process of the printed image, which is a printed image printed onto a membrane substrate 1 suitable for a non-permeable medium, and the color image printed using four colors of water-based color ink is superimposed on a background image printed using water-based white ink.

[0204] Compared to printing only color images, when printing background images using white ink, the amount of ink coated onto the film substrate 1 becomes enormous, leading to problems such as reduced power consumption in the drying device 18 and waste gas treatment.

[0205] In terms of having Figure 10 When the drying apparatus 18 with the structure shown is used in a configuration in which the heater is positioned opposite the transport path of the substrate described in Patent Document 1, the drying module 1800 may be enlarged and the size of the drying oven 330A may be enlarged in the direction orthogonal to the substrate transport surface.

[0206] In contrast, in the drying apparatus 18 according to this embodiment, the heater unit 320 is positioned in a location not opposite to the substrate conveying surface. This avoids the drying oven 330A from becoming too large in the direction orthogonal to the substrate conveying surface.

[0207] Furthermore, in Figure 10 In the drying module 1800 shown, the large size of the drying module 1800 in the substrate conveying direction is also avoided. That is, in the drying module 1800, the heater unit 320 is not arranged in an adjacent position to the nozzle unit 300 in the substrate conveying direction, which can relatively shorten the distance between adjacent drying modules 1804 and avoid the large size of the drying oven 330A in the substrate conveying direction.

[0208] in addition, Figure 10 The drying module 1800 shown is applicable. Figure 6 The drying module 1802 shown Figure 7 The drying module 1803 shown and Figure 9 Any of the drying modules 1804 shown.

[0209] Figure 11 This is a side view of a drying apparatus showing another configuration example of the drying module. Additionally, this figure illustrates... Figure 10 This figure shows a portion of the substrate transport path inside the drying oven 330A. The arrows in the figure indicate the substrate transport direction.

[0210] Figure 11 The drying modules 1800 shown are respectively disposed on the printing surface 1A side and the substrate support surface 1B side of the film substrate 1. Thus, the printing surface 1A and the substrate support surface 1B of the film substrate 1 can be dried simultaneously.

[0211] In this configuration, the drying module 1800 disposed on the printing surface 1A side of the film substrate 1 and the drying module 1800 disposed on the substrate support surface 1B side of the film substrate 1 are preferably configured to replace the nozzle unit 300 and the heater unit 320. Thus, the heater unit 320 can be disposed on the same side in the substrate width direction of the drying oven 330A.

[0212] Figure 12 This is a side view of a drying apparatus showing a modified example of the drying module. Additionally, Figure 12 The arrows shown indicate the direction of substrate transport.

[0213] Figure 12 The drying module 1805 shown has a nozzle unit 3001 with a first nozzle arrangement surface 302A and a second nozzle arrangement surface 302B. The first nozzle arrangement surface 302A and the second nozzle arrangement surface 302B are provided with a plurality of nozzles 304.

[0214] exist Figure 12 In the nozzle unit 3001 shown, the upper surface of the cuboid-shaped nozzle unit 3001 is designated as the first nozzle mounting surface 302A, and the bottom surface is designated as the second nozzle mounting surface 302B. That is, in Figure 12 In the nozzle unit 3001 shown, one of the two parallel surfaces is designated as the first nozzle configuration surface 302A, and the other surface is designated as the second nozzle configuration surface 302B.

[0215] The first nozzle mounting surface 302A and the second nozzle mounting surface 302B are not limited to parallel surfaces; they can also be orthogonal surfaces. As an example of using orthogonal surfaces, the first nozzle mounting surface 302A can be set as the upper surface of a cuboid, and the second nozzle mounting surface 302B can be set as the side surface of a cuboid.

[0216] According to this variation, heated gas can be sprayed from a single nozzle unit 3001 in multiple directions. Furthermore, the nozzle arrangement surfaces are not limited to two surfaces; three or more surfaces of a polyhedron can also be used as nozzle arrangement surfaces.

[0217] Return to Figure 10 When multiple drying modules 1800 are configured in the substrate conveying direction, the upstream region in the substrate conveying direction is a constant-rate drying zone, where the moisture evaporation is relatively large and the humidity tends to rise. Therefore, from Figure 9 The volume of external gas drawn into the heated gas generating chamber 360B by the third air inlet 380 shown increases relatively.

[0218] On the other hand, the downstream area in the substrate conveying direction is a deceleration drying zone, where the amount of moisture evaporation is relatively small and the humidity is difficult to rise. As a result, the volume of external gas drawn into the heated gas generating box 360B from the third air inlet 380 is relatively reduced.

[0219] That is, the volume of gas per unit period in the drying module 1800 located downstream in the substrate conveying direction through the third air inlet 380 is less than the volume of gas per unit period in the drying module 1800 located upstream in the substrate conveying direction through the third air inlet 380.

[0220] As an example of the upstream region in the substrate conveying direction, an example can be the region extending from the starting position of the conveying of the film substrate 1 in the drying apparatus 18 to a position where the distance from the starting point is more than 15% and less than 20% of the total length of the substrate conveying path.

[0221] As an example of the downstream region in the substrate conveying direction, an example can be the region from a position where the distance from the starting point is more than 15% and less than 20% of the total length of the substrate conveying path to the end position of the conveying of the film substrate 1 in the drying apparatus 18.

[0222] [Effects of the drying apparatus described in the embodiments]

[0223] The drying apparatus described in the embodiments can achieve the following effects. [1]

[0225] A nozzle unit 300 for blowing heating gas onto the film substrate 1 is positioned opposite to the substrate conveying surface. A heater unit 320 for supplying heating gas to the nozzle unit 300 is positioned not opposite to the substrate conveying surface. This prevents the drying module in the direction opposite to the substrate conveying surface from becoming too large. [2]

[0227] The drying module 1801 is located inside the drying oven 330. This allows for a reduction in heat loss. [3]

[0229] The nozzle unit 300 is disposed inside the drying oven 330A, and the heater unit 320 is disposed outside the drying oven 330A. This facilitates maintenance of the axial fan 324 and other components of the heater unit 320. [4]

[0231] The heater unit 320 is disposed inside the heating gas generating chamber 360. Thus, the axial fan 324 can blow the heating gas inside the heating gas generating chamber 360 toward the nozzle unit 300 without causing the heat generated by the heater unit 320 to escape to the outside of the heating gas generating chamber 360. [5]

[0233] The heating gas generating chamber 360 has a first air inlet 362 for drawing in external gas. Thus, the heater unit 320 can use the external gas from the heating gas generating chamber 360 to generate heating gas. [6]

[0235] The system includes a heating gas recovery unit 370 that recovers the heating gas released from the nozzle unit 300. The heating gas recovered by the heating gas recovery unit 370 is then returned to the heating gas generating chamber 360A via the heating gas outlet 372 and the second inlet 364. This achieves a thermal energy cycle by recovering the high-temperature heating gas inside the drying oven 330A to the heating gas generating chamber 360A, resulting in energy savings for the drying module 1803. [7]

[0237] The heating gas recovery port 376 is divided into multiple inlet areas in the width direction of the medium. The heating gas recovery unit 370 has multiple inlet flow paths that are respectively connected to the multiple inlet areas. The multiple inlet flow paths are respectively connected to the multiple exhaust areas divided by the heating gas discharge port 372. As a result, the heating gas recovery unit 370 can uniformly draw in heating gas in the width direction of the substrate. [8]

[0239] The heated gas generating chamber 360B is equipped with a third air inlet 380 for drawing in external gas. As a result, the drying module 1804 can suppress the decrease in drying efficiency due to the increase in humidity inside the heated gas generating chamber 360B. [9]

[0241] The heated gas generating chamber 360B is equipped with an opening area adjustment mechanism 382 for adjusting the opening area of ​​the third air inlet 380. Therefore, the heated gas generating chamber 360B can adjust the suction volume of external gas.

[10]

[0243] The heated gas generating chamber 360B is equipped with at least one of a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor near the second air inlet 364. Therefore, the opening area of ​​the third air inlet 380 can be adjusted based on at least one of the temperature and humidity of the gas flowing into the heated gas generating chamber 360B through the second air inlet 364.

[11]

[0245] When multiple drying modules 1800 are arranged in the substrate conveying direction, the volume of external gas drawn in from the third air inlet 380 is relatively larger for the drying module 1800 arranged upstream in the substrate conveying direction compared to the drying module 1800 arranged downstream in the same direction. This improves the overall drying efficiency of the drying apparatus 18.

[12]

[0247] A drying module 1800 is disposed on the substrate support surface 1B side of the membrane substrate 1. This allows the membrane substrate 1 to be dried from the substrate support surface 1B side.

[13]

[0249] In the nozzle unit 3001, which is configured as a polyhedron, nozzles 304 are arranged on multiple surfaces, such as the first nozzle arrangement surface 302A and the second nozzle arrangement surface 302B. As a result, heated gas can be sprayed in multiple directions.

[0250] [Specific examples of materials suitable for nozzle units]

[0251] The drying apparatus 18 adjusts the drying temperature based on the material of the film substrate 1, the thickness of the film substrate 1, and the image printed on the film substrate 1. Figure 4 There is a concern that the nozzle unit 300 shown in the figure may have reduced thermal responsiveness when the applicable material is relatively thick and has a relatively large heat capacity.

[0252] exist Figure 4 The nozzle unit 300 shown in the figure is made of a rectangular metal frame with a hollow structure. This ensures a constant thermal response in the nozzle unit 300 when the drying temperature changes, reducing standby time at the drying temperature.

[0253] That is, from the viewpoint of ensuring constant thermal response, the material suitable for the nozzle unit 300 is preferably a metal material with a smaller heat capacity. Examples of metal materials suitable for the nozzle unit 300 include iron and stainless steel.

[0254] The nozzle unit 300 is preferably formed using a metal material, and is preferably formed by bending and welding of a metal sheet. From the viewpoint that multiple nozzles 304 are distributed in a two-dimensional shape on the nozzle arrangement surface 302, the nozzle unit 300 is preferably made of a material with a constant thickness and both machinability and rigidity.

[0255] From the perspective of further reducing heat capacity, the key to nozzle unit 300 is to minimize the volume of its housing. On the other hand, in a cuboid-shaped nozzle unit 300, when heated gas flows in from a surface parallel to the nozzle arrangement surface 302, the volume of heated gas supplied per unit period to nozzle 304 located further away from the heated gas inlet is reduced compared to nozzle 304 located opposite the heated gas inlet, which may make it difficult to blow the heated gas evenly. The airflow distribution is more affected along the long side of nozzle unit 300 than along the short side.

[0256] To suppress the distribution of heating gas, the height of the frame, i.e. the distance between the inflow surface of the heating gas and the nozzle configuration surface 302, can be relatively increased, but this results in a relative increase in the heat capacity of the entire nozzle unit 300.

[0257] A flow straightener or other limiting components can be configured inside the nozzle unit 300 to suppress the airflow distribution of the heated gas. However, there are concerns about the increased complexity of the internal structure of the nozzle unit 300 and the increased flow resistance inside the nozzle unit 300.

[0258] In contrast, such as Figure 4 As shown, the heating gas inlet 308 is disposed on the side 306 of the nozzle unit 300, which is orthogonal to the nozzle arrangement surface 302. As a result, the height of the nozzle unit 300 is kept low, and the airflow distribution of the heating gas is suppressed in the long side direction of the nozzle unit 300.

[0259] Figure 13 This is a table showing the evaluation results of the thickness of the metal plate applicable to the nozzle unit. Figure 13 The results show the evaluation of processability, pressure loss, and thermal responsiveness using the thickness of the metal sheet as a parameter.

[0260] exist Figure 13 In the table shown, evaluation result A represents the best result. Evaluation result B represents a suitable result. Evaluation result C represents a conditionally suitable result. Evaluation result D represents an unsuitable result. Figure 14 The table shown is the same.

[0261] Regarding machinability, when the thickness is less than 1.5 mm, the machining accuracy may decrease due to the insufficient rigidity of the metal sheet itself. Therefore, from a machinability point of view, the thickness of the metal sheet is preferably 1.5 mm or more.

[0262] Furthermore, when the thickness of the metal plate exceeds 3.5 mm, the processing difficulty may increase relatively in order to ensure a certain level of processing accuracy when forming a nozzle 304 with a diameter of less than 100 micrometers. Therefore, the thickness of the metal plate is preferably 3.5 mm or less.

[0263] Pressure loss is determined based on the volume of heated gas blown from nozzle 304 per unit period. As an indicator of pressure loss, the measurement value of an anemometer positioned at a certain distance from nozzle 304 can be applied. When the thickness of the metal plate is relatively large, the flow resistance in each nozzle 304 increases relatively, and the pressure loss inside the nozzle unit 300 increases relatively.

[0264] For example, by setting the output of the axial fan 324, such as its duty cycle, to a constant, and measuring the wind speed at multiple locations on the nozzle configuration surface 302, the arithmetic mean of the measured values ​​at each location can be used as the index value of the pressure loss. Examples of multiple locations include the four corners of the nozzle configuration surface 302 and the center of the nozzle configuration surface.

[0265] That is, regarding pressure loss, when the thickness of the metal plate is 3.5 mm or more, there is a concern that the blowing pressure of the heated gas may decrease due to the increased flow path resistance in the nozzle 304, and this setting is suitable under certain drying conditions. On the other hand, when the thickness of the metal plate is less than 3.5 mm, this setting is optimal or suitable.

[0266] When the temperature setting of heater unit 320 is changed, thermal responsiveness is determined based on the time it takes for the heated gas blown from nozzle 304 to reach a specified temperature. When the metal plate is relatively thick, there is a concern that the heat capacity of nozzle unit 300 increases relatively, and the thermal responsiveness decreases relatively. That is, regarding thermal responsiveness, when the thickness is 3.5 mm or more, there is a concern that the thermal responsiveness will decrease due to the increased heat capacity in nozzle 304, and this setting is suitable under certain drying conditions. On the other hand, when the thickness of the metal plate is less than 3.5 mm, this setting is optimal or suitable.

[0267] Figure 13 The overall judgment in the table shows the evaluation results that take into account processability, pressure loss, and thermal response. The overall judgment is unsuitable when the thickness is less than 1.5 mm, and the overall judgment is optimal when the thickness is 1.5 mm or more but less than 2.0 mm.

[0268] Furthermore, the overall judgment is that the thickness is 2.0 mm or more but less than 3.5 mm, and the overall judgment is that the thickness is 3.5 mm or more, which is conditionally suitable.

[0269] That is, the thickness of the metal plate suitable for the nozzle unit 300 is preferably 1.5 mm or more, more preferably 1.5 mm or more and less than 3.5 mm. A further preferred thickness of the metal plate is 1.5 mm or more and less than 2.5 mm.

[0270] [Specific examples of structures applicable to nozzle units]

[0271] In the nozzle unit 300, in order to uniformly spray heated gas from all nozzles 304, heated gas needs to be stored inside the nozzle unit 300. That is, the nozzle unit 300 has a structure in which the opening area of ​​the heated gas inlet 308 is less than one times the total nozzle area calculated as the sum of the opening areas of all nozzles 304.

[0272] Figure 14 This is a table showing the evaluation results applicable to the structure of the nozzle unit. In Figure 14 The evaluation results show the assessment of pressure loss and wind speed unevenness. Additionally, Figure 14 The area ratios in the table represent the ratio of the opening area of ​​the heating gas inlet 308 to the total area of ​​the nozzle.

[0273] Similar to the evaluation of metal sheet thickness, pressure loss is determined based on the volume of heated gas blown from nozzle 304 per unit period. As an indicator of pressure loss, the measurement value of an anemometer positioned at a constant distance from nozzle 304 can be applied. This constant distance from nozzle 304 can be applied to the location of the substrate conveying surface.

[0274] Regarding pressure loss, when the area ratio is less than 0.1, the opening area of ​​each nozzle 304 becomes relatively small, leading to increased pressure loss due to increased flow path resistance in each nozzle 304, making it unsuitable. Furthermore, an area ratio of 0.1 or higher but less than 0.4 is conditionally suitable. Additionally, regarding pressure loss, an area ratio of 0.4 or higher but less than 0.7 is suitable, and an area ratio of 0.7 or higher is optimal.

[0275] Uneven airflow is determined based on whether the heated gas blown from all nozzles 304 has an airflow velocity within a specified range. For example, the index value for uneven airflow can be set as the airflow velocity at multiple locations along the long side of the nozzle unit 300. These multiple locations can be those used when deriving the index value for pressure loss.

[0276] Regarding uneven wind speed, the optimal area ratio is less than 0.1, while a ratio between 0.1 and 0.7 is suitable. Furthermore, an area ratio between 0.7 and 1.0 is conditionally suitable for uneven wind speed. Conversely, an area ratio exceeding 1.0 is unsuitable.

[0277] exist Figure 14 The comprehensive judgment shown represents the evaluation results taking into account pressure loss and wind speed unevenness. Area ratios less than 0.1 and greater than 1.0 are unsuitable; area ratios greater than 0.1 and less than 0.4 and greater than 0.7 and less than 1.0 are suitable. Furthermore, an area ratio greater than 0.4 and less than 0.7 is optimal.

[0278] That is, the ratio of the opening area of ​​the heating gas inlet 308 to the total area of ​​the nozzles in the nozzle unit 300 is preferably 0.1 or more and 1.0 or less, more preferably 0.4 or more and less than 0.7.

[0279] [About Terminology]

[0280] The term "pre-coating liquid" has the same meaning as "pretreatment liquid" and "treatment liquid," referring to a general term for liquids applied before printing. Pre-coating liquid is an example of a coating liquid.

[0281] The term "printing apparatus" has the same meaning as "printing press," "printer," "printing device," "image recording device," "image forming device," "image output device," and "drawing device." "Image" is used in a broad sense, including color images, black and white images, monochrome images, gradient images, and uniform density images.

[0282] The terminology for printing includes concepts such as image recording, image formation, printing, drawing, and printing. The terminology for apparatus can include the concept of a system.

[0283] The term "image" is not limited to photographic images; it can also be used as a comprehensive term encompassing patterns, characters, symbols, line drawings, mosaic patterns, color separation patterns, and various other patterns, as well as appropriate combinations thereof. Furthermore, the term "image" can include the meaning of image signals and image data.

[0284] The embodiments of the present invention described above can be appropriately modified, added to, and deleted without departing from the spirit of the invention. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above; various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, embodiments, modifications, and applications can be implemented in appropriate combinations.

[0285] Symbol Explanation

[0286] 1-Film substrate, 1A-Printing surface, 1B-Substrate support surface, 10-Inkjet printing system, 12-Paper feeding device, 14-Pre-coating device, 16-Ejection device, 18-Drying device, 20-Inspection device, 22-Recovery device, 24-Conveying device, 30-Inkjet head, 30C-Inkjet head, 30K-Inkjet head, 30M-Inkjet head, 30W-Inkjet head, 30Y-Inkjet head, 32-Scanner, 34-Transfer roller, 36-Tension sensor, 38-Drive roller, 160-System control unit, 162-Conveying control unit, 164-Pre-coating control unit, 166-Ejection control unit, 168-Drying control unit, 170-Inspection control unit, 172-Measuring device 173 - Printed Image Determination Unit; 174 - Memory; 176 - Sensor; 200 - Control Device; 202 - Processor; 204 - Computer-readable Medium; 206 - Communication Interface; 208 - Input / Output Interface; 210 - Bus; 214 - Input Device; 216 - Display Device; 220 - Delivery Control Program; 222 - Pre-coating Control Program; 224 - Spraying Control Program; 226 - Drying Control Program; 228 - Inspection Control Program; 230 - Test Pattern Determination Program; 300 - Nozzle Unit; 301 - One End; 302 - Nozzle Configuration Surface; 302A - First Nozzle Configuration Surface; 302B - Second Nozzle Configuration Surface 304 - Nozzle, 306 - Side, 308 - Heating gas inlet, 320 - Heater unit, 322 - Heater, 323 - Heater housing, 324 - Axial fan, 326 - Heating gas supply port, 327 - Gas supply port mounting surface, 330 - Drying oven, 330A - Drying oven, 331 - End face, 332 - Opening, 360 - Heating gas generating box, 360A - Heating gas generating box, 360B - Heating gas generating box, 361 - Another end face, 362 - First air inlet, 364 - Second air inlet, 366 - Surface, 370 - Heating gas recovery unit, 371 - One end face, 372 - Heating gas outlet, 372 A - First exhaust area, 372B - Second exhaust area, 372C - Third exhaust area, 376 - Heated gas recovery port, 376A - First intake area, 376B - Second intake area, 376C - Third intake area, 378A - First intake air path, 378B - Second intake air path, 378C - Third intake air path, 379A - First partition wall, 379B - Second partition wall, 380 - Third intake port, 382 - Opening area adjustment mechanism, 1801 - Drying module, 1801A - Drying module, 1802 - Drying module, 1803 - Drying module, 1804 - Drying module, 1805 - Drying module, 3001 - Nozzle unit.

Claims

1. A drying apparatus that blows heated gas onto a substrate conveying surface in a substrate conveying path, the drying apparatus comprising: The air supply unit has a spray nozzle formed on the first surface facing the substrate conveying surface; Heat source; A fan motor blows gas out of the heat source to generate the heated gas; The drying unit, wherein the air supply unit is disposed inside; and The heating gas supply unit houses the heat source and the fan motor, and supplies the heating gas to the air supply unit. The air supply unit forms a heating gas inlet on its second surface, which intersects with the first surface, to receive the supply of heating gas. The heat source and the fan motor are located outside the drying unit. The heating gas supply unit has a heating gas supply port, which is connected to the heating gas inlet formed in the air supply unit. The heating gas supply unit has a second air inlet through which the heating gas is drawn from the drying unit, so that the heating gas from the drying unit is recovered to the heating gas supply unit.

2. The drying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The heating gas supply unit has The first air inlet draws in external gas from the heating gas supply unit.

3. The drying apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: A heating gas recovery unit is disposed inside the drying unit and recovers the heating gas blown out from the air supply unit. The heating gas recovery unit includes: Heated gas recovery port, recovering the heated gas blown out from the air supply unit; and The heating gas outlet allows the heated gas recovered through the heating gas recovery port to be discharged and is connected to the second air inlet.

4. The drying apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The heating gas recovery port is divided into multiple air intake areas along its long side. The heating gas outlet and the heating gas recovery port are correspondingly divided into multiple exhaust zones. The heated gas recovery unit has multiple intake air paths that connect each of the multiple intake regions to each of the multiple exhaust regions.

5. The drying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The heating gas supply unit has a third air inlet for drawing in external gas.

6. The drying apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising: The adjustment mechanism adjusts the volume of gas passing through the third air inlet per unit period.

7. The drying apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising: More than one processor; and The sensor detects at least one of the temperature and humidity of the gas passing through the third air inlet. The processor controls the operation of the adjustment mechanism based on the detection results of the sensor.

8. A liquid dispensing system comprising: A liquid application device applies liquid to a substrate; and The drying device blows heated gas onto the substrate conveying surface in the substrate conveying path to dry the substrate that has been coated with the liquid. The drying apparatus includes: The air supply unit has a spray nozzle formed on the first surface facing the substrate conveying surface; Heat source; A fan motor blows gas out of the heat source to generate the heated gas; The drying unit, wherein the air supply unit is disposed inside; and The heating gas supply unit houses the heat source and the fan motor, and supplies the heating gas to the air supply unit. The air supply unit has a heating gas inlet on its second surface, which intersects with the first surface, to receive the supply of heating gas. The heat source and the fan motor are located outside the drying unit. The heating gas supply unit has a heating gas supply port, which is connected to the heating gas inlet formed in the air supply unit. The heating gas supply unit has a second air inlet through which the heating gas is drawn from the drying unit, so that the heating gas from the drying unit is recovered to the heating gas supply unit.

9. The liquid delivery system according to claim 8, wherein, The air supply units are respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the substrate conveying surface.

10. The liquid supply system according to claim 8, comprising a plurality of the said air supply units, Multiple air supply units are configured along the substrate delivery path.

11. The liquid delivery system according to claim 10, further comprising one or more processors. The drying apparatus includes multiple heating gas supply units, each housing the heat source and the fan motor, and supplying heating gas to each of the multiple air supply units. The heating gas supply unit includes: The third air inlet draws in external gas from the heating gas supply unit; and The adjustment mechanism adjusts the volume of gas passing through the third air inlet per unit period. The processor controls the operation of the adjustment mechanism so that the volume of gas per unit period of the third air inlet of the heating gas supply unit located downstream in the substrate transport direction in the substrate transport path is less than the volume per unit period of gas of the third air inlet of the heating gas supply unit located upstream in the substrate transport direction.

12. A printing system comprising: Printing apparatus for printing images on a substrate; and The drying device blows heated gas onto the substrate conveying surface in the substrate conveying path to dry the substrate with the printed image. The drying apparatus includes: The air supply unit has a spray nozzle formed on the first surface facing the substrate conveying surface; Heat source; A fan motor blows gas out of the heat source to generate the heated gas; The drying unit, wherein the air supply unit is disposed inside; and The heating gas supply unit houses the heat source and the fan motor, and supplies the heating gas to the air supply unit. The air supply unit has a heating gas inlet on its second surface, which intersects with the first surface, to receive the supply of heating gas. The heat source and the fan motor are located outside the drying unit. The heating gas supply unit has a heating gas supply port, which is connected to the heating gas inlet formed in the air supply unit. The heating gas supply unit has a second air inlet through which the heating gas is drawn from the drying unit, so that the heating gas from the drying unit is recovered to the heating gas supply unit.

Images