Recording system and drying device

Abstract

This invention relates to a recording system and a drying apparatus. The recording system includes a recording device having a recording section for recording and a drying apparatus having a drying mechanism. The recording device has a support surface downstream of the recording section for supporting a recording medium. The drying apparatus is configured to be mounted on the recording device at a position opposite the support surface and the drying mechanism. Either the recording device or the drying apparatus has a predetermined component that, when the drying apparatus is mounted on the recording device, defines a predetermined interval between the support surface and the drying mechanism. The drying mechanism functions when the interval is defined by the predetermined component, and ceases to function when the predetermined interval is removed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a recording system having a recording apparatus for performing recording by causing liquid to adhere to a recording medium and a drying apparatus for drying the recording medium with liquid adhering to it, as well as the drying apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] The media processing apparatus described in Patent Document 1 includes a recording unit and a heating unit. Liquid is sprayed onto the media through the recording unit, thereby recording an image on the media. The heating unit heats the media to which the liquid adheres to the recording unit, causing the moisture in the liquid adhering to the media to evaporate. The media processing apparatus is an example of a recording apparatus, the heating unit is an example of a drying apparatus, and the media is an example of a recording medium.

[0003] Among users of recording devices, there are those who do not require a drying device. Therefore, to avoid placing an unnecessary financial burden on users who do not require a drying device, a structure has been considered that makes the drying device an optional device that can be installed relative to the recording device. However, there is a possibility that when a user installs the drying device onto the recording device, the drying device may not be installed in a way that ensures the recording medium and the drying device are in an appropriate positional relationship, thus preventing proper drying of the recording medium.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-64124 Summary of the Invention

[0005] One recording system for solving the above-mentioned problem includes a recording device that performs recording by attaching a liquid to a recording medium being transported in a transport direction, and a drying device that has a drying mechanism for drying the recording medium to which the liquid has attached. In the recording system, the recording device has a support surface supporting the recording medium on the downstream side of the recording section in the transport direction. The drying device is configured to be mounted on the recording device at a position opposite the support surface and the drying mechanism. Either the recording device or the drying device has a defining component that, when the drying device is mounted on the recording device, defines a predetermined interval between the support surface and the drying mechanism. When the predetermined interval is defined by the defining component, the drying mechanism functions; when the definition implemented by the defining component is released, the function of the drying mechanism ceases.

[0006] A drying apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems is configured to be installed on a recording device having a recording section for recording by adhering liquid to a recording medium being transported in a transport direction, and a support surface for supporting the recording medium on a downstream side in the transport direction. The drying apparatus also has a drying mechanism that, when installed on the recording device, dries the recording medium with the liquid adhering to it at a position opposite the support surface. The drying apparatus has a defining member that defines a predetermined interval between the support surface and the drying mechanism. The drying mechanism functions when the predetermined interval is defined by the defining member, and ceases to function when the definition implemented by the defining member is released. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the recording system in the first to third embodiments.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a schematic side view illustrating the recording system in the first to third embodiments.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a schematic top view showing the positional relationship between the support surface and the drying mechanism when viewed from the second conveying direction.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a schematic side sectional view showing the structure of the drying mechanism.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the recording system in the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the specified components and mounting parts in the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state in which the mounting section in the first embodiment has the specified components installed.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the recording system in the second embodiment.

[0015] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the specified components and mounting parts in the second embodiment.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state in which the mounting section in the second embodiment has the specified components installed.

[0017] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the recording system in the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0018] Hereinafter, the first to third embodiments of the recording system and the drying apparatus will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The recording system records text and images relative to the recording medium by spraying ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a recording medium such as paper, and the drying apparatus dries the recording medium with the liquid adhering to it.

[0019] In the accompanying drawings, with the recording system 100 placed on a horizontal plane, the direction of gravity is represented by the Z-axis, and the directions along the horizontal plane are represented by the X-axis and Y-axis. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. In the following description, the direction along the X-axis will also be referred to as the width direction X, the direction along the Y-axis will also be referred to as the depth direction Y, and the direction along the Z-axis will also be referred to as the vertical direction Z.

[0020] First Implementation Method

[0021] Overview of the recording system

[0022] like Figure 1 As shown, the recording system 100 includes a recording device 11. The recording device 11 has a recording section 20 that performs recording relative to the recording medium M. The recording section 20 sprays liquid toward the recording medium M from a liquid ejector head (not shown) while reciprocating along a guide shaft (not shown) extending in the width direction X, thereby causing the liquid to adhere to the surface of the recording medium M. That is, the recording section 20 performs recording by causing the liquid to adhere to the recording medium M being transported in the transport direction Y1.

[0023] The recording device 11 includes a housing 12, a cover 14 that covers the housing 12, and an operation unit 15. The operation unit 15 includes, for example, a display unit 15a consisting of a touch panel type liquid crystal screen and operation buttons 15b. The operation unit 15 is configured to enable user-operated status confirmation and operation of the entire recording system 100.

[0024] like Figure 2 As shown, the recording medium M is unwound from a roll R that is wound into a cylindrical shape. Furthermore, after recording is performed on the recording medium M, the recording medium M will be wound into a cylindrical shape as a roll R.

[0025] The recording apparatus 11 has a support portion 25 downstream of the recording section 20 in the transport direction Y1. The support portion 25 has a support surface 25a that supports the recording medium M coated with liquid in the downstream direction Y1. The support surface 25a is a surface that extends downward in a direction intersecting the floor surface 101. In the support portion 25, the recording medium M is transported along the support surface 25a in the second transport direction Y2.

[0026] In this embodiment, since the transport direction of the recording medium M changes depending on the location, the transport direction of the recording medium M in the recording unit 20 is referred to as the transport direction Y1, and the transport direction of the recording medium M in the support surface 25a is referred to as the second transport direction Y2. The transport direction Y1 and the second transport direction Y2 are the length directions of the recording medium M. The transport direction Y1 coincides with the depth direction Y of the recording system 100. Furthermore, the width direction X is the width direction of the recording system 100 and also the width direction of the recording medium M.

[0027] The recording device 11 has feet 13 that support the housing 12. Multiple small casters 13a may also be mounted on the feet 13. The recording device 11 is mounted on the floor surface 101 by the rollers of the casters 13a. The casters 13a may also have locking levers (not shown). The rotation of the rollers can be locked by operating the locking levers. When the locking levers lock the rollers, the position of the recording device 11 is fixed. When the lock is released, the user can move the recording device 11.

[0028] The recording system 100 includes a drying device 51. The drying device 51 includes a basket 52, feet 53 supporting the basket 52, and a cover 54 covering the basket 52. The drying device 51 has multiple small casters 53a on its feet 53. The drying device 51 is mounted on the floor surface 101 by the rollers on the casters 53a. That is, the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 are mounted on the same plane. The casters 53a may also have locking levers (not shown). The rotation of the rollers can be locked by operating the locking levers. When the locking levers lock the rollers, the position of the drying device 51 is fixed. When the locking is released, the user can move the drying device 51.

[0029] The drying apparatus 51 has a drying mechanism 55 at a position opposite to the support surface 25a for drying the recording medium M with attached liquid. The drying apparatus 51 is configured such that it can be mounted relative to the recording device 11 at the position opposite the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55. Since the support surface 25a supports the recording medium M with attached liquid, when the drying apparatus 51 is mounted relative to the recording device 11, the surface of the recording medium M and the drying mechanism 55 are positioned opposite each other. In this state, the drying apparatus 51 dries the recording medium M with attached liquid by heating the surface of the recording medium M through the recording section 20 using the drying mechanism 55, causing the moisture on the recording medium M to evaporate. Thus, the recording medium M with attached liquid is dried.

[0030] The drying mechanism 55 is disposed within the housing 52. The drying mechanism 55 has a heat dissipation surface 55a in the direction in which heat is released. The surfaces of the drying mechanism 55 other than the heat dissipation surface 55a are covered by a cover 54 to prevent them from being touched by the user.

[0031] The foot 53 supports the housing 52 such that the angle of the heat dissipation surface 55a relative to the floor surface 101 is the same as the angle of the support surface 25a relative to the floor surface 101. The drying mechanism 55 can also be configured to adjust the angle of the heat dissipation surface 55a relative to the floor surface 101, so that the drying device 51 can accommodate recording devices 11 even with different angles of the support surface 25a relative to the floor surface 101. Furthermore, the drying mechanism 55 can also be configured to adjust the height of the heat dissipation surface 55a relative to the floor surface 101, so that the drying device 51 can accommodate recording devices 11 even with different heights of the support surface 25a relative to the floor surface 101.

[0032] Alternatively, a second drying mechanism 102 may be provided on the back side of the support portion 25. The second drying mechanism 102 may also be disposed within a housing (not shown) of the second drying device, so that the second drying device and the drying device 51 are mounted together relative to the recording device 11.

[0033] Regarding specified components

[0034] like Figure 2 As shown, either the recording device 11 or the drying device 51 has a predetermined component 71 that defines a predetermined distance S between the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 when the drying device 51 is mounted relative to the recording device 11. More precisely, the distance S is the distance between the heat dissipation surface 55a and the support surface 25a. By moving the drying device 51 on the floor surface 101, which serves as the mounting surface, the drying device 51 is mounted onto the recording device 11 from a direction parallel to the floor surface 101.

[0035] Furthermore, when the drying device 51 is installed relative to the recording device 11, the position of the drying device 51 relative to the recording device 11 is determined by the defining component 71. More specifically, the defining component 71 defines the position of the drying mechanism 55 in the second conveying direction Y2 on the support surface 25a as a predetermined position.

[0036] The specified component 71 is configured to switch between a first attitude and a second attitude, wherein the first attitude is one in which the interval S is defined as a predetermined interval. Figure 2The second posture, indicated by a double-dotted line, is one in which the floor area occupied by component 71 is smaller compared to the first posture. Figure 2 The posture is shown in solid lines.

[0037] The specified component 71 can be rotated with one end as the center by supporting one end of the specified component 71 on either the recording device 11 or the drying device 51, thereby switching the attitude between the first attitude and the second attitude.

[0038] like Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the recording system 100 has a first defining member 71a and a second defining member 71b, which are defining members 71. The first defining member 71a is disposed on the side further outward than the range W to which the recording medium M is transported, in the width direction X of the recording medium M. Furthermore, the second defining member 71b is disposed on the other side further outward than the range W to which the recording medium M is transported, in the width direction X of the recording medium M.

[0039] In this embodiment, the first defining member 71a defines a first interval Sa, which is a distance S located on the outer side compared to the range W to which the recording medium M is transported, as a predetermined interval. Furthermore, the second defining member 71b defines a second interval Sb, which is a distance S located on the other outer side compared to the range W to which the recording medium M is transported, as a predetermined interval. Thus, at any position in the width direction X of the recording medium M, the interval S between the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 is defined as a predetermined interval. Therefore, appropriate drying treatment is performed on the entire surface of the recording medium M. More specifically, by heating the entire surface of the recording medium M at an appropriate temperature and blowing an appropriate amount of air onto the entire surface of the recording medium M by the drying mechanism 55, appropriate drying treatment can be performed relative to the entire surface of the recording medium M. Figure 3 This indicates a state in which the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining component 71a, and the second interval Sb is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining component 71b.

[0040] Alternatively, the recording system 100 may have more defining components 71, and the interval S between multiple locations may be defined as a predetermined interval through these defining components 71. That is, the recording system 100 may have multiple defining components 71, and the interval S between multiple locations may be defined as a predetermined interval through these multiple defining components 71.

[0041] For example, a first defining member 71a may be provided on the side further outward than the range W to which the recording medium M is transported, downstream of the drying mechanism 55 in the second transport direction Y2, and a third defining member may be provided on the side upstream of the drying mechanism 55 in the second transport direction Y2. Alternatively, a second defining member 71b may be provided on the side further outward than the range W to which the recording medium M is transported, downstream of the drying mechanism 55 in the second transport direction Y2, and a fourth defining member may be provided on the side upstream of the drying mechanism 55 in the second transport direction Y2. Furthermore, the spacing S of the four portions surrounding the drying mechanism 55 may be defined as a predetermined spacing using the first defining member 71a, the second defining member 71b, the third defining member, and the fourth defining member. Thus, on the support portion 25, at any position in the width direction X of the recording medium M and in the second transport direction Y2, the spacing S between the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 is defined as a predetermined spacing. Therefore, it is possible to perform appropriate drying treatment on the entire surface of the recording medium M on the support surface 25a.

[0042] Either the recording device 11 or the drying device 51 has a first defined component 71a. Furthermore, either the recording device 11 or the drying device 51 has a second defined component 71b. In this embodiment, the drying device 51 has a defined component 71. More specifically, the drying device 51 has a first defined component 71a and a second defined component 71b. Alternatively, the recording device 11 may also have a first defined component 71a and a second defined component 71b. Furthermore, it may also be arranged such that the recording device 11 has a first defined component 71a and the drying device 51 has a second defined component 71b. Alternatively, it may also be arranged such that the drying device 51 has a first defined component 71a and the recording device 11 has a second defined component 71b.

[0043] When the drying device 51 has a specified component 71, the recording device 11 has Figure 2 The mounting portion 41 is shown. The drying device 51 is mounted relative to the recording device 11 by mounting a predetermined component 71 of the drying device 51 onto the mounting portion 41. Furthermore, when the drying device 51 is mounted relative to the recording device 11, the predetermined component 71 determines the interval S to a predetermined interval. Additionally, when the recording device 11 has the predetermined component 71, the drying device 51 also has the mounting portion 41.

[0044] In this embodiment, the recording device 11 has a first mounting portion 41a and a second mounting portion 41b. The drying device 51 is mounted relative to the recording device 11 by mounting the first defining member 71a to the first mounting portion 41a, and mounting the second defining member 71b to the second mounting portion 41b. In other words, when the drying device 51 is mounted relative to the recording device 11, the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a, and the second interval Sb is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. Alternatively, the first interval Sa can be changed by adjusting the position of the first mounting portion 41a in the depth direction Y. Furthermore, the second interval Sb can be changed by adjusting the position of the second mounting portion 41b in the depth direction Y.

[0045] About the drying mechanism

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, when the drying device 51 is mounted on the recording device 11, a drying mechanism 55 is arranged at a position opposite the heat dissipation surface 55a and the support surface 25a. The drying mechanism 55 includes a heating section 56 for heating the recording medium M. The heating section 56 has a heater tube 56a as a heating element and a reflector plate 56b for reflecting the heat released from the heater tube 56a. The reflector plate 56b surrounds the back of the heater tube 56a, thereby reflecting the heat released from the heater tube 56a to the back towards the support surface 25a. By arranging a plurality of heater tubes 56a and reflector plates 56b extending in the width direction X, heat is released from the heat dissipation surface 55a as a whole toward the support surface 25a. In addition, although the heater tube 56a is used as a heating element in this embodiment, the heating element only needs to be a component that generates heat. For example, the heating element may also be a halogen lamp.

[0047] Alternatively, a metal mesh can be provided on the heat dissipation surface 55a. This allows heat from the heater tube 56a to be transferred to the recording medium M on the support surface 25a through the metal mesh. Furthermore, it can be used as... Figure 4 The heat dissipation surface 55a can be positioned slightly inward compared to the outer shape of the drying device 51, as shown, or it can be positioned at the same location as the outer shape of the drying device 51.

[0048] The drying unit 55 includes a flow channel 57 for gas flow and a blower 58 for blowing gas within the flow channel 57. The gas within the flow channel 57 is, for example, air. The flow channel 57 is configured to surround the heating unit 56. Within the flow channel 57, the gas flows in the direction indicated by the dashed arrow. The flow channel 57 has an inlet 59 opening toward the support surface 25a and an outlet 60 opening toward the support surface 25a. The outlet 60 is located upstream of the inlet 59 in the second conveying direction Y2. The outlet 60 is opposite to the upstream portion of the support surface 25a in the second conveying direction Y2. The inlet 59 is opposite to the downstream portion of the support surface 25a in the second conveying direction Y2.

[0049] A blower 58 is positioned midway through the flow channel 57. The blower 58 generates airflow by rotating a fan, causing the gas within the flow channel 57 to flow toward the outlet 60. The gas flowing through the blower 58 is blown out of the outlet 60 after being blown along the flow channel 57.

[0050] The blowing direction in the outlet 60 is slightly inclined towards the side where the inlet 59 is located. Therefore, most of the gas blown out from the outlet 60 flows along the support surface 25a towards the side where the inlet 59 is located. That is, most of the gas blown out from the outlet 60 flows along the support surface 25a downstream of the second conveying direction Y2.

[0051] For the gas flowing downstream along the support surface 25a in the second conveying direction Y2, a portion flows back into the interior of the drying mechanism 55 from the inlet 59, while the remainder is discharged from between the inlet 59 and the support surface 25a to the bottom of the drying device 51. The drying mechanism 55 is configured such that a portion of the gas blown out from the outlet 60 circulates inside the drying mechanism 55 through the flow channel 57.

[0052] The drying apparatus 51 dries the recording medium M by heating it with the heating unit 56 while blowing gas onto the recording medium M with the blower 58. Specifically, when the recording medium M with liquid adhering to it is transported between the heat dissipation surface 55a and the support surface 25a, the heat emitted by the heater tube 56a and the gas blown out from the outlet 60 promote the evaporation of moisture from the liquid adhering to the recording medium M.

[0053] If the distance S between the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 is too large, the evaporation of moisture from the liquid adhering to the recording medium M cannot be sufficiently achieved. Furthermore, if the distance S between the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 is too small, when the recording medium M is, for example, paper, the paper temperature will rise excessively, causing moisture within the paper fibers to be lost, thus reducing the quality of the recorded medium M. Therefore, the defining component 71 defines the distance S between the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 as a predetermined distance.

[0054] Regarding the structure of the recording system

[0055] like Figure 5 As shown, the recording device 11 includes: a recording unit 20 for recording on the recording medium M, a transport unit 21 for transporting the recording medium M, an operation unit 15 for operating the entire recording system 100, and a power supply unit 49 for supplying power to the recording device 11. Furthermore, the recording device 11 also includes a control unit 48 for controlling the recording device 11.

[0056] The control unit 48 of the recording device 11 controls the recording unit 20 and the transport unit 21 based on the operation of the operation unit 15 implemented by the user, so that while recording is performed on the recording medium M using the recording unit 20, the recording medium M is transported using the transport unit 21.

[0057] The drying apparatus 51 includes a drying mechanism 55 for drying the recording medium M coated with liquid, and a power supply unit 99 for supplying power to the drying mechanism 55. The power supply unit 99 can supply power not only to the drying mechanism 55 but also to the entire drying apparatus 51. Alternatively, power can be supplied from the recording device 11 to parts of the drying apparatus 51 other than the drying mechanism 55 by connecting a power cable between the recording device 11 and the drying apparatus 51 to supply power from the recording device 11 to the drying apparatus 51. Furthermore, the drying apparatus 51 includes a second control unit 98 for controlling the drying apparatus 51.

[0058] The control unit 48 of the recording device 11 not only controls the recording device 11, but also controls the drying device 51 via the second control unit 98 of the drying device 51. That is, the control unit 48 controls the recording system 100. The control unit 48 and the second control unit 98 are connected by wired or wireless means, thereby enabling the transmission and reception of information between the control unit 48 and the second control unit 98.

[0059] The second control unit 98 sends information regarding the status of the drying device 51 to the control unit 48. Upon receiving this information, the control unit 48 sends a control command or control parameter to the second control unit 98 to control the drying device 51. The second control unit 98 then controls the drying mechanism 55 based on this control command or control parameter, thereby causing the drying mechanism 55 to dry the recording medium M.

[0060] For example, the control parameters include the number of heating heater tubes 56a and the rotation speed of the blower 58. The second control unit 98 can also control the number of heating heater tubes 56a or the rotation speed of the blower 58 based on the amount of liquid sprayed from the recording unit 20 onto the recording medium M, so as to make the surface of the recording medium M in an appropriate state.

[0061] For example, when the drying unit 55 has a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the heat dissipation surface 55a, the measured value obtained by the temperature sensor is included in the information related to the state of the drying unit 51. The second control unit 98 may also send the measured value to the control unit 48. Furthermore, the control unit 48 may also send control parameters to the second control unit 98 based on the measured value. Furthermore, the second control unit 98 may also control the heat generation or airflow in the drying unit 55 based on the control parameters sent from the control unit 48.

[0062] Alternatively, the second control unit 98 of the drying device 51 may not be provided. Alternatively, the control unit 48 of the recording device 11 may directly control the drying device 55 by directly connecting each part of the drying mechanism 55 to the control unit 48.

[0063] Each of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 has a first defined component 71a. Furthermore, the first defined component 71a has a first contact portion 72a that abuts against the other of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51. Also, the other of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 has a first contacted portion 42a that is abutted against by the first contact portion 72a.

[0064] In this embodiment, the drying apparatus 51 includes a first defined component 71a having a first contact portion 72a, and the recording apparatus 11 has a first contacted portion 42a that is contacted by the first contact portion 72a. Alternatively, the recording apparatus 11 may include a first defined component 71a having a first contact portion 72a, and the drying apparatus 51 may have a first contacted portion 42a that is contacted by the first contact portion 72a.

[0065] Each of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 has a second predefined component 71b. Furthermore, the second predefined component 71b has a second abutting portion 72b that abuts against the other of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51. Also, each of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 has a second abutted portion 42b that is abutted against by the second abutting portion 72b.

[0066] In this embodiment, the drying apparatus 51 includes a second defined member 71b having a second contact portion 72b, and the recording apparatus 11 has a second contacted portion 42b that is contacted by the second contact portion 72b. Alternatively, the recording apparatus 11 may include a second defined member 71b having a second contact portion 72b, and the drying apparatus 51 may have a second contacted portion 42b that is contacted by the second contact portion 72b.

[0067] The recording system 100 includes a first detection unit 43a that detects the contact between a first contact portion 72a and a first contacted portion 42a, and a second detection unit 43b that detects the contact between a second contact portion 72b and a second contacted portion 42b. By bringing the first contact portion 72a into contact with the first contacted portion 42a, thereby... Figure 3 The first interval Sa shown is defined as a predetermined interval. Furthermore, by bringing the second abutting portion 72b into contact with the second abutted portion 42b, thereby... Figure 3 The second interval Sb shown is defined as a predetermined interval. The detection results of the first detection unit 43a and the second detection unit 43b are notified to the control unit 48.

[0068] In this embodiment, the recording device 11 has a first detection unit 43a and a second detection unit 43b. Alternatively, the drying device 51 may also have a first detection unit 43a and a second detection unit 43b. Alternatively, the recording device 11 may have a first detection unit 43a, and the drying device 51 may have a second detection unit 43b. Alternatively, the recording device 11 may have a second detection unit 43b, and the drying device 51 may have a first detection unit 43a.

[0069] On the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 Figure 2 When the interval S shown is defined as a predetermined interval by the defining component 71, the drying mechanism 55 functions; when the predetermined interval implemented by the defining component 71 is released, the function of the drying mechanism 55 ceases. Furthermore, "the drying mechanism functions" means that by starting the drying process... Figure 4 The heating element 56a is energized, thus initiating the heating process. Furthermore, the term "stopping the function of the drying mechanism" refers to stopping the operation of the drying mechanism. Figure 4The heating element 56a is energized, thus stopping its heating. Alternatively, the fan 58 can begin rotating when the distance S between the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 is predetermined by the defining component 71. Furthermore, the fan 58 can be stopped rotating when the predetermined distance implemented by the defining component 71 is released.

[0070] When the recording system 100 has multiple defining components 71, the interval S of multiple locations is defined as a predetermined interval by the multiple defining components 71. Furthermore, the drying mechanism 55 functions when all intervals S of the multiple locations are defined as predetermined intervals, and the function of the drying mechanism 55 ceases when the definition implemented by at least one of the multiple defining components 71 is released.

[0071] In this embodiment, the drying mechanism 55 functions when the first detection unit 43a detects contact between the first contacting part 72a and the first contacted part 42a, and the second detection unit 43b detects contact between the second contacting part 72b and the second contacted part 42b. Furthermore, the drying mechanism 55 ceases functioning when at least either the first detection unit 43a or the second detection unit 43b fails to detect contact. In other words, when... Figure 3 The first interval Sa shown is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining component 71a, and Figure 3 The drying mechanism 55 functions when the second interval Sb shown is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. Furthermore, the function of the drying mechanism 55 ceases when the definition implemented by at least one of the first defining member 71a and the second defining member 71b is released.

[0072] The control unit 48 of the recording device 11 controls the entire recording system 100. That is, when the distance S between the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 is predetermined by the determining component 71, the control unit 48 enables the drying mechanism 55 to function, and when the determination achieved by the determining component 71 is released, the control unit 48 stops the function of the drying mechanism 55.

[0073] In this embodiment, Figure 3 The first interval Sa shown is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining component 71a, and Figure 3 When the second interval Sb shown is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b, the control unit 48 of the recording device 11 enables the drying mechanism 55 to function. Furthermore, when the definition achieved by at least one of the first defining member 71a and the second defining member 71b is released, the control unit 48 of the recording device 11 stops the function of the drying mechanism 55.

[0074] When the regulation implemented by at least one of the first regulating component 71a and the second regulating component 71b is cancelled, the control unit 48 informs the user that the drying device 51 has not been correctly installed on the recording device 11. For example, the situation of the drying device 51 not being correctly installed on the recording device 11 can also be displayed on the display unit 15a. In addition, when the drying device 51 is not correctly installed on the recording device 11, the control unit 48 can also inform the user by means of a communication voice or human voice.

[0075] Regarding the structure of the installation section

[0076] like Figure 6 As shown, the first defining member 71a is generally cylindrical in shape and has a guided surface 76 forming the side of the cylinder and a first abutting portion 72a forming the top portion of the cylinder. The first abutting portion 72a consists of an abutting surface 75 that abuts against the first mounting portion 41a and a detection portion 73 that protrudes from the center of the abutting surface 75. The first defining member 71a is supported at one end (not shown) on either the recording device 11 or the drying device 51.

[0077] The first mounting portion 41a has a first abutting portion 42a. The first abutting portion 42a is composed of a fixing portion 31, a sliding portion 32, and a lifting portion 33. The fixing portion 31 is the part of the first abutting portion 42a that is fixed relative to the first mounting portion 41a. The sliding portion 32 is the part of the first abutting portion 42a that slides relative to the fixing portion 31 in the vertical direction Z. The lifting portion 33 is the part of the first abutting portion 42a that is lifted relative to the sliding portion 32 in the rotational direction about the X-axis. The lifting portion 33 has an abutting surface 45 that abuts against the abutting surface 75 of the first abutting portion 72a. That is, when the first specified component 71a is mounted on the first mounting portion 41a, the abutting surface 75 of the first abutting portion 72a abuts against the abutting surface 45 of the first abutting portion 42a. Furthermore, when the abutting surface 75 abuts against the abutting surface 45, Figure 3 The first interval Sa shown is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining component 71a.

[0078] The actuating part 33 is configured such that it can move relative to the sliding part 32 with a pivoting center 34 located at the center of the sliding part 32 in the vertical direction Z as the center. Figure 6The lifting motion is indicated by dashed arrows in the directions D1 and D2. Multiple force-applying components 37 are disposed between the lifting part 33 and the sliding part 32. Therefore, before the first specified component 71a is installed, the lifting part 33 can maintain a substantially horizontal position relative to the sliding part 32. Furthermore, when the first specified component 71a is installed, the lifting part 33 can, in conjunction with the tilt of the first specified component 71a, lift relative to the sliding part 32 in the rotational direction about the X-axis.

[0079] The lifting part 33 has a recess 47 at the center of the surface opposite the contact surface 75 of the first specified member 71a. The recess 47 is shaped like a hole 39 opening at the center of the bottom surface of a trumpet-shaped hole portion. In other words, the recess 47 is composed of a trumpet-shaped guide surface 46 as a side surface of the hole portion and a contact surface 45 as the bottom surface of the hole portion. The guide surface 46 is formed to be slightly open as the entrance side of the hole. In other words, the guide surface 46 has an inclined surface on the entrance side of the recess 47 and a cylindrical hole-shaped portion on the inner side of the recess 47. The cylindrical guided surface 76 and the cylindrical hole-shaped portion in the guide surface 46 are formed to a size that allows them to fit together. A first detection part 43a is disposed deep within the hole 39. When the first specified member 71a is installed, the first detection part 43a detects the detected part 73 protruding from the hole 39.

[0080] The sliding part 32 has a sliding surface 36. The fixed part 31 has a sliding surface 35. By sliding the sliding surface 36 relative to the sliding surface 35, the sliding part 32, which is accompanied by the lifting part 33, moves relative to the fixed part 31. Figure 6 The sliding part 32 slides in the directions D3 and D4, indicated by the dashed arrows. Multiple force-applying components 38 are arranged between the sliding part 32 and the fixed part 31. Therefore, before the first specified component 71a is installed, the sliding part 32 can maintain a roughly central position relative to the fixed part 31. Furthermore, when the first specified component 71a is installed, the sliding part 32 can slide relative to the fixed part 31 in the vertical direction Z, aligning with the vertical position of the first specified component 71a.

[0081] The first mounting portion 41a has an upper opening / closing member 27 and a lower opening / closing member 28. The recess 47 is closed by the upper opening / closing member 27 and the lower opening / closing member 28. When the first pre-fixed member 71a is installed, the upper opening / closing member 27 rotates counterclockwise in the rotation direction W1 around the rotation center 27a, thereby opening the upper side of the recess 47. When the first pre-fixed member 71a is installed, the lower opening / closing member 28 rotates clockwise in the rotation direction W2 around the rotation center 28a, thereby opening the lower side of the recess 47.

[0082] The first mounting portion 41a has force-applying members 29 and 30. Force-applying member 29 applies force to the upper opening / closing member 27 in a direction that closes the upper side of the recess 47. Force-applying member 30 applies force to the lower opening / closing member 28 in a direction that closes the lower side of the recess 47. Thus, the recess 47 can be closed by the upper opening / closing member 27 and the lower opening / closing member 28 before the first mounting member 71a is installed. That is, the recess 47 is invisible when the first mounting member 71a is not installed, and the possibility of the user touching the first detection member 43a located deep within the hole 39 of the recess 47 can be suppressed. Furthermore, when the first mounting member 71a is installed, the recess 47 can be opened by pressing the outer surface 27b of the upper opening / closing member 27 and the outer surface 28b of the lower opening / closing member 28 with the top portion of the first mounting member 71a.

[0083] When the upper opening / closing member 27 is over-opened, its inner side surface 27c abuts against the contact surface 23, thereby limiting the rotation range of the upper opening / closing member 27. Similarly, when the lower opening / closing member 28 is over-opened, its inner side surface 28c abuts against the contact surface 24, thereby limiting the rotation range of the lower opening / closing member 28. Furthermore, when the inner side surface 27c of the upper opening / closing member 27 abuts against the contact surface 23, an inclined surface can be formed by the outer side surface 27b and the guide surface 46 to guide the upper side of the first abutting portion 72a towards the recess 47. Likewise, when the inner side surface 28c of the lower opening / closing member 28 abuts against the contact surface 24, an inclined surface can be formed by the outer side surface 28b and the guide surface 46 to guide the lower side of the first abutting portion 72a towards the recess 47.

[0084] The recording device 11 and the drying device 51 are mounted on the floor surface 101. It is common to use cushioning materials such as carpets or rugs on the floor surface 101. Therefore, the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 will cause the floor surface 101 to sink due to their weight. That is, the amount of sinking of the casters 13a and 53a in the vertical direction Z varies depending on the weight of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51, or the condition of the floor surface 101. Therefore, the height and angle of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 relative to the floor surface 101 change depending on the situation.

[0085] The first mounting portion 41a is configured such that even if the height and angle of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 relative to the floor surface 101 change, the first specified component 71a can still be mounted on the first mounting portion 41a. That is, by causing the lifting portion 33 to lift relative to the sliding portion 32 in the rotational direction about the X-axis and causing the sliding portion 32 to slide relative to the fixed portion 31 in the vertical direction Z, the first specified component 71a can be mounted on the first mounting portion 41a even under such circumstances.

[0086] The recording system 100 can also be configured to adjust the height of at least one of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51. For example, height-adjustable casters can be used in the casters 13a and 53a. By configuring the device to be height-adjustable, the lifting range and sliding range of the first mounting portion 41a can be narrowed. That is, the size of the first mounting portion 41a can be reduced.

[0087] Alternatively, the sliding portion 32 can be configured to slide not only in the vertical direction Z but also in the width direction X relative to the fixed portion 31. Depending on the precision of each component, there may be differences in the distance between the first specified component 71a and the second specified component 71b, and the distance between the first mounting portion 41a and the second mounting portion 41b. In such cases, by sliding the sliding portion 32 also in the width direction X, the first specified component 71a can be mounted onto the first mounting portion 41a, and the second specified component 71b can be mounted onto the second mounting portion 41b.

[0088] Alternatively, the lifting portion 33 can be configured to lift not only in the rotational direction about the X-axis but also in the rotational direction about the Z-axis relative to the sliding portion 32. Depending on the precision of each component, there may be cases where the first specified component 71a and the second specified component 71b are not parallel. In such cases, by causing the lifting portion 33 to also lift in the rotational direction about the Z-axis, the first specified component 71a can be mounted onto the first mounting portion 41a, and the second specified component 71b can be mounted onto the second mounting portion 41b.

[0089] The distance between the first specified component 71a and the second specified component 71b is determined by the mounting position of the first specified component 71a towards the drying device 51 and the mounting position of the second specified component 71b towards the drying device 51. Therefore, the drying device 51 can also be configured to allow for position adjustment in the width direction X at least one of the two mounting positions. Furthermore, the distance between the first mounting portion 41a and the second mounting portion 41b is determined by the mounting position of the first mounting portion 41a towards the recording device 11 and the mounting position of the second mounting portion 41b towards the recording device 11. Therefore, the recording device 11 can also be configured to allow for position adjustment in the width direction X at least one of the two mounting positions.

[0090] Furthermore, the drying device 51 may also be configured to adjust the angle of the first specified component 71a relative to the floor surface 101 in the first posture and the angle of the second specified component 71b relative to the floor surface 101 in the first posture.

[0091] Furthermore, the structures of the second defining component 71b and the second mounting portion 41b are the same as those of the first defining component 71a and the first mounting portion 41a. Therefore, the description of the structure of the second defining component 71b and the second mounting portion 41b is omitted. Additionally, in the second mounting portion 41b, when the abutting surface 75 abuts against the abutted surface 45, Figure 3 The second interval Sb shown is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining component 71b.

[0092] Regarding the installation process

[0093] like Figure 7 As shown, the first specified component 71a is installed onto the first mounting portion 41a. The operations performed in the first mounting portion 41a at this time will be described in sequence.

[0094] The first abutting part 72a presses against the outer surface 27b of the upper opening / closing member 27 and the outer surface 28b of the lower opening / closing member 28, thereby initiating the penetration of the first abutting part 72a into the first abutted part 42a. The upper opening / closing member 27 rotates counterclockwise in the direction W1 from the position indicated by the double-dotted line to the position indicated by the solid line, thereby opening the upper side of the recess 47. Furthermore, the lower opening / closing member 28 rotates clockwise in the direction W2 from the position indicated by the double-dotted line to the position indicated by the solid line, thereby opening the lower side of the recess 47.

[0095] The first abutting portion 72a contacts the guide surface 46 of the recess 47. Then, by lifting the lifting portion 33 from the position indicated by the double-dotted line relative to the sliding portion 32 in the lifting direction D1, D2 to the position indicated by the solid line, the recess 47 is moved so that the angle of the guide surface 46 is along the angle of the guided surface 76. Furthermore, by sliding the sliding portion 32 from the position indicated by the double-dotted line relative to the fixed portion 31 in the sliding direction D3, D4 to the position indicated by the solid line, the recess 47 is moved so that the position of the guide surface 46 is along the guided surface 76. Moreover, by inserting the first abutting portion 72a while it contacts the inclined surface of the recess 47 on the entrance side of the guide surface 46, the first abutting portion 72a is introduced to the inner side and center of the recess 47. In other words, as the first abutting portion 72a is inserted into the recess 47, the angle and position of the recess 47 relative to the first abutting portion 72a are adjusted. In this state, if the first abutting portion 72a is further inserted into the recess 47, the cylindrical guided surface 76 and the cylindrical hole in the guide surface 46 will fit together. That is, the first abutting portion 72a is inserted into the first abutting portion 42a.

[0096] When the first abutting part 72a is inserted into the first abutted part 42a, the detected part 73 of the first abutting part 72a protrudes from the hole 39 of the recess 47. Furthermore, when the abutting surface 75 of the first abutting part 72a abuts against the abutted surface 45 of the first abutted part 42a, the first detection part 43a, disposed deep within the hole 39, detects the detected part 73 protruding from the hole 39. The first detection part 43a is, for example, a small switch. By pressing the switch lever with the detected part 73, a short circuit is created in the circuit using a contact part (not shown), thereby allowing the first detection part 43a to detect the contact between the abutting surface 75 and the abutted surface 45.

[0097] The contact surface 75 can also serve as the detection part 73. A switch lever is disposed in the hole 39, for example, at a position protruding from the contact surface 45. Furthermore, the switch lever can be pressed by the contact surface 75 when it comes into contact with the contact surface 45, thereby causing the switch, which serves as the first detection part 43a, to detect the contact between the contact surface 75 and the contact surface 45.

[0098] The first detection unit 43a only needs to be able to detect when the position of the detected part 73 in the depth direction Y is at a predetermined position. For example, the first detection unit 43a may be a transmissive optical sensor, and the detected part 73 may be a shielding plate that blocks the light-emitting part and the light-receiving part of the transmissive optical sensor. For example, it may also be configured such that the first detection unit 43a is a proximity sensor, and the proximity sensor detects the detected part 73 when it approaches the detection surface of the proximity sensor to a predetermined distance.

[0099] Furthermore, the structures of the second specified component 71b and the second mounting portion 41b are the same as those of the first specified component 71a and the first mounting portion 41a. Therefore, the description of the operations performed in the second mounting portion 41b when the second specified component 71b is mounted on the second mounting portion 41b is omitted.

[0100] The role of the implementation method

[0101] The function of this embodiment will be explained.

[0102] When the drying device 51 is not in use, the specified components 71a and 71b are in a second posture that occupies a smaller floor area compared to the first posture. As a result, since the dimension of the drying device 51 in the depth direction Y is smaller when the drying device 51 is not in use compared to when the drying device 51 is in use, the drying device 51 can be stored in a relatively small space.

[0103] When a large amount of liquid is sprayed toward the recording medium M, a drying device 51 is used to dry the recording medium M with a large amount of liquid adhering to it. After the user releases the locking of the rollers of the small caster 53a, the drying device 51 can be moved out of its storage location by rotating the rollers on the floor surface 101.

[0104] After the user moves the drying device 51 to the vicinity of the recording device 11, the first specified component 71a and the second specified component 71b are changed to Figure 2 The second posture is shown. Then, with the first abutting portion 72a, which is the top portion of the first specified member 71a, facing the first mounting portion 41a, and the second abutting portion 72b, which is the top portion of the second specified member 71b, facing the second mounting portion 41b, the drying device 51 is arranged relative to the recording device 11.

[0105] The user moves the drying device 51 on the floor surface 101 in a direction that brings the drying device 51 closer to the recording device 11. By rotating the rollers of the small caster 53a on the floor surface 101, the drying device 51 can be easily moved closer to the recording device 11.

[0106] By pressing the first abutment portion 72a against the outer surface 27b of the upper opening / closing member 27 and the outer surface 28b of the lower opening / closing member 28, the first abutment portion 72a begins to penetrate into the first mounting portion 41a. Similarly, by pressing the second abutment portion 72b against the outer surface 27b of the upper opening / closing member 27 and the outer surface 28b of the lower opening / closing member 28, the second abutment portion 72b begins to penetrate into the second mounting portion 41b. Furthermore, since the installation in the recording device 11 is complete, the rollers of the small caster 13a are locked. Therefore, the recording device 11 will not move when the outer surfaces 27b and 28b are pressed.

[0107] When the first abutting part 72a is inserted into the recess 47, the abutting surface 75 of the first abutting part 72a abuts against the abutting surface 45 of the first abutted part 42a. Through this abutment, the first detection part 43a, which is disposed deep in the hole 39, detects the detected part 73 protruding from the hole 39.

[0108] In the first mounting part 41a, the abutting surface 75 abuts against the abutted surface 45, thereby causing the first interval Sa to be defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a. Based on the detection result of the first detection part 43a, the control part 48 is able to detect that the first interval Sa has been defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a.

[0109] Although in this state, the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a, the second interval Sb has not yet been defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. Therefore, the control unit 48 does not enable the drying mechanism 55 to function. That is, the drying device 51 is not enabled to function when the drying device 51 is not installed in a positional relationship that allows the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 to be in the proper position.

[0110] In this state, when the second abutting portion 72b is further inserted into the recess 47, the abutting surface 75 of the second abutting portion 72b abuts against the abutting surface 45 of the second abutted portion 42b. Through this abutment, the second detection portion 43b, which is disposed deep within the hole 39, detects the detected portion 73 protruding from the hole 39.

[0111] In the second mounting section 41b, the abutting surface 75 abuts against the abutted surface 45, thereby causing the second interval Sb to be defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. Based on the detection result of the second detection section 43b, the control section 48 is able to detect that the second interval Sb has been defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b.

[0112] In this state, the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a, and the second interval Sb is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. Furthermore, the first defining member 71a and the second defining member 71b define the position of the drying mechanism 55 in the second transport direction Y2 on the support surface 25a as a predetermined position. The user locks the rollers of the small caster 53a to fix the position of the drying device 51. In this state, the control unit 48 enables the drying mechanism 55 to function. That is, the drying device 51 can function when it is installed so that the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 are in a proper positional relationship. Since the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 are in a proper positional relationship, the recording medium M can be heated at a user-set temperature.

[0113] There is a situation where the drying device 51 is pressed due to accidental contact between the drying device 51's housing 52 and the user, causing the locked roller surface of the small caster 53a to slide on the floor surface 101, thereby shifting the position of the drying device 51. Consequently, for example, when the contact surface 75 of the second regulating member 71b leaves the contact surface 45, the second detection unit 43b will not detect the detected part 73. At this time, based on the detection result of the second detection unit 43b, the control unit 48 can detect that the regulation implemented by the second regulating member 71b has been released.

[0114] In this state, although the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining component 71a, the second interval Sb is not defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining component 71b. Therefore, the control unit 48 stops the function of the drying mechanism 55. The control unit 48 can also stop the entire recording system 100, including the function of the drying mechanism 55. That is, the function of the drying device 51 can be stopped when the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 are not in a proper positional relationship.

[0115] The control unit 48 notifies the user by displaying on the display unit 15a that the drying device 51 is not correctly installed on the recording device 11. By having the user, who has seen the display, correctly reinstall the drying device 51 onto the recording device 11, the control unit 48 restores the functionality of the drying device 51. Thus, the recording system 100 can resume operation when the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 are in the correct positional relationship.

[0116] When the use of the drying device 51 is finished, the user removes the drying device 51 from the recording device 11. After releasing the locking of the rollers of the small caster 53a, the user can easily separate the drying device 51 from the recording device 11 by moving the drying device 51 away from the recording device 11 on the floor surface 101.

[0117] The recess 47 is closed by the upper opening / closing member 27 and the lower opening / closing member 28. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the first detection unit 43a and the second detection unit 43b from mistakenly entering the detection state due to something other than the detected unit 73. After the user changes the posture of the first specified member 71a and the second specified member 71b from the second posture to the first posture, the drying device 51 is moved to the storage location and stored.

[0118] When the drying unit 51 is separated from the recording unit 11, the support surface 25a of the part where the drying mechanism 55 is installed is exposed. That is, since the user can touch even the part where the drying mechanism 55 is installed, it is easy to clean the support surface 25a, which is the transport path of the recording medium M.

[0119] Effects of the implementation method

[0120] The effects of this implementation method will be explained.

[0121] The following effects can be obtained in the recording system 100 and drying apparatus 51 of this embodiment.

[0122] (1) The first defining member 71a determines a predetermined interval Sa on the side of the recording medium M that is outermost compared to the transported range W of the recording medium M in the width direction X. This ensures that, on one side, the dried surface of the recording medium M and the surface of the drying mechanism 55 that dries the recording medium M are in a proper positional relationship. Furthermore, the second defining member 71b determines a predetermined interval Sb on the other side of the recording medium M that is outermost compared to the transported range W of the recording medium M in the width direction X. This ensures that, on the other side, the dried surface of the recording medium M and the surface of the drying mechanism 55 that dries the recording medium M are in a proper positional relationship. In other words, the first defining member 71a and the second defining member 71b ensure that, from one side to the other in the width direction X of the recording medium M, the dried surface of the recording medium M and the surface of the drying mechanism 55 that dries the recording medium M are in a proper positional relationship. The drying mechanism 55 functions when the first spacing Sa on one side is predetermined by the first defining member 71a, and the second spacing Sb on the other side is predetermined by the second defining member 71b. This allows the recording medium M to be dried in a suitable state from one side to the other. Furthermore, the function of the drying mechanism 55 ceases when the determination achieved by at least one of the first defining member 71a and the second defining member 71b is released. This prevents the drying mechanism 55 from functioning in a state where the surface of the recording medium M on either side of the width direction X of the recording medium M is not properly dried.

[0123] (2) The first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the contacting portion 72a of the first defining member 71a abutting against the first abutted portion 42a. Since the positional relationship is uniformly determined by the contact of the members, the first interval Sa can be reliably defined as a predetermined interval. The second interval Sb is defined as a predetermined interval by the contacting portion 72b of the second defining member 71b abutting against the second abutted portion 42b. Since the positional relationship is uniformly determined by the contact of the members, the second interval Sb can be reliably defined as a predetermined interval.

[0124] (3) The recording system 100 includes a first detection unit 43a that detects the contact between the first contact portion 72a and the first contacted portion 42a, and a second detection unit 43b that detects the contact between the second contact portion 72b and the second contacted portion 42b. Only in the recording device 11 and the drying device 51, which has the first detection unit 43a, is a circuit for detecting contact by the first detection unit 43a. Furthermore, only in the recording device 11 and the drying device 51, which has the second detection unit 43b, is a circuit for detecting contact by the second detection unit 43b. That is, since the circuit for detecting contact is formed only in one of the devices, the structure of the circuitry of the recording system 100 can be simplified.

[0125] (4) The recording device 11 and the drying device 51 are arranged on the same plane. The support surface 25a extends in a direction intersecting the plane, and the drying device 51 moves on the plane, thereby allowing the drying device 51 to be mounted onto the recording device 11 from a direction parallel to the plane. By having the user move the drying device 51 on the floor surface 101, which serves as the mounting surface, and simultaneously mount the drying device 51 onto the recording device 11 from a direction intersecting the support surface 25a, the intervals Sa and Sb between the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 can be easily defined as predetermined intervals. Furthermore, by moving the drying device 51 away from the recording device 11, the drying device 51 can be easily separated from the recording device 11.

[0126] (5) The recording device 11 has a control unit 48 that controls the recording system 100. Furthermore, the control unit 48 enables the drying mechanism 55 to function when the intervals Sa and Sb are predetermined by the specifying components 71a and 71b, and stops the function of the drying mechanism 55 when the predetermined intervals are released. By controlling the recording system 100 through the recording device 11, the drying mechanism 55 of the drying device 51 can be controlled according to the amount of liquid sprayed from the recording unit 20 onto the recording medium M, so that the surface of the recording medium M is in a suitable state. Moreover, not only can the function of the drying mechanism 55 be stopped when an abnormality occurs, but the entire recording system 100, including the recording device 11, can also be stopped at an appropriate timing. In other words, by controlling the recording system 100 through the recording device 11, coordinated control of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 is possible.

[0127] (6) Power is supplied to the drying mechanism 55 from the power supply unit 99 of the drying device 51. Therefore, the power capacity of the power supply unit 49 of the recording device 11 can be reduced by an amount corresponding to the power capacity required to supply power to the drying mechanism 55. That is, among users of the recording device 11, users who do not need the drying device 51 can be exempted from unnecessary expenses.

[0128] (7) The specified components 71a and 71b are configured to switch between a first posture in which the intervals Sa and Sb are specified as predetermined intervals, and a second posture in which the floor area occupied by the specified components 71a and 71b is reduced compared to the first posture. Thus, when the user does not use the drying device 51, by switching the posture of the drying device 51 to the second posture in which the floor area occupied by the specified components 71a and 71b is reduced compared to the first posture, the drying device 51 can be stored in a relatively small space.

[0129] (8) The first mounting portion 41a and the second mounting portion 41b have an upper opening / closing member 27 and a lower opening / closing member 28. When the drying device 51 is mounted on the recording device 11, the recess 47 is opened by pressing the top portions of the first positioning member 71a and the second positioning member 71b against the outer surface 27b of the upper opening / closing member 27 and the outer surface 28b of the lower opening / closing member 28. As a result, since the user does not need to open the recess 47, the first positioning member 71a and the second positioning member 71b can be easily mounted onto the first mounting portion 41a and the second mounting portion 41b.

[0130] (9) The amount of downward sinking of the casters 13a and 53a in the vertical direction Z varies depending on the weight of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 or the condition of the floor surface 101. The mounting portions 41a and 41b are configured to include a sliding portion 32 that slides in the vertical direction Z. Since the height of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 relative to the floor surface 101 changes, the height of the mounting portions 41a and 41b is adjusted to the height of the specified components 71a and 71b, thus the specified components 71a and 71b can be mounted on the mounting portions 41a and 41b.

[0131] (10) The amount of downward sinking of the small casters 13a and 53a in the vertical direction Z varies depending on the weight of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 or the condition of the floor surface 101, and the angles of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 relative to the floor surface 101 change. The mounting portions 41a and 41b are configured to include a lifting portion 33 that can be lifted in the rotational direction around the X-axis. Since the angles of the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 relative to the floor surface 101 change, the angles of the mounting portions 41a and 41b are adjusted to the angles of the specified components 71a and 71b, thus the specified components 71a and 71b can be mounted on the mounting portions 41a and 41b.

[0132] (11) Mounting portions 41a and 41b have recesses 47. The guide surface 46 of the recesses 47 has an inclined surface on the entrance side of the recesses 47. When the user inserts the specified components 71a and 71b into the mounting portions 41a and 41b, the first abutment 72a is brought into contact with the inclined surface, thereby guiding the first abutment 72a to the inside of the recesses 47 and to the center of the recesses 47. As a result, the specified components 71a and 71b can be smoothly installed into the mounting portions 41a and 41b.

[0133] (12) When the drying device 51 is not installed on the recording device 11, the recess 47 is closed by the upper opening / closing member 27 and the lower opening / closing member 28. Furthermore, detection units 43a and 43b, which detect the installed specified components 71a and 71b, are disposed deep within the recess 47. This prevents the detection units 43a and 43b from being accidentally touched by the user and thus becoming in a detection state.

[0134] (13) By adjusting the angle of the heat dissipation surface 55a in the drying device 51 relative to the floor surface 101, the drying device 51 can be used even for recording devices 11 with different angles of the support surface 25a relative to the floor surface 101. By adjusting the height of the heat dissipation surface 55a in the drying device 51 relative to the floor surface 101, the drying device 51 can be used even for recording devices 11 with different heights of the support surface 25a relative to the floor surface 101.

[0135] (14) The drying device 51 has multiple small casters 53a. When the specified components 71a and 71b are installed on the mounting parts 41a and 41b, the user moves the drying device 51 on the floor surface 101 in a direction that brings the drying device 51 closer to the recording device 11. By rotating the rollers of the small casters 53a on the floor surface 101, the drying device 51 can be easily moved closer to the recording device 11.

[0136] Second Implementation Method

[0137] Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Since the second embodiment is substantially the same as the first embodiment, repeated descriptions will be omitted by using the same symbols to denote the same structures.

[0138] Regarding the structure of the recording system

[0139] like Figure 8 As shown, the first abutting portion 72a has a first conductive portion 74a that is connected to the first abutted portion 42a. The first abutted portion 42a has a first conductive portion 44a that is connected to the first abutting portion 72a. The second abutting portion 72b has a second conductive portion 74b that is connected to the second abutted portion 42b. The second abutted portion 42b has a second conductive portion 44b that is connected to the second abutting portion 72b. Furthermore, the control unit 48 and the second control unit 98 are connected together via a connection cable (not shown) connecting the recording device 11 and the drying device 51.

[0140] The first conductive part 74a is connected to the second control part 98. The first conductive part 44a is connected to the control part 48. The control part 48 and the second control part 98 are connected together via a connecting cable (not shown). The first contact part 72a abuts against the first contacted part 42a, thereby... Figure 3 The first interval Sa shown is defined as a predetermined interval. Then, by abutting the first contact portion 72a with the first contacted portion 42a, the first conducting portion 74a and the first conducting portion 44a are brought into contact, thereby allowing current to flow in the closed circuit. More specifically, current flows from the control unit 48 through a connecting cable (not shown), the second control unit 98, the first conducting portion 74a, and the first conducting portion 44a to the control unit 48. That is, the first conducting portion 74a and the first conducting portion 44a are made conductive by the contact between the first contact portion 72a and the first contacted portion 42a.

[0141] The second conductive part 74b is connected to the second control part 98. The second conductive part 44b is connected to the control part 48. The control part 48 and the second control part 98 are connected together via a connecting cable (not shown). The second abutting part 72b abuts against the second abutted part 42b, thereby... Figure 3The second interval Sb shown is defined as a predetermined interval. Furthermore, by abutting the second contact portion 72b against the second contacted portion 42b, the second conducting portion 74b and the second conducting portion 44b are brought into contact, thereby allowing current to flow in the closed circuit. More specifically, current flows from the control unit 48 through a connecting cable (not shown), the second control unit 98, the second conducting portion 74b, and the second conducting portion 44b to the control unit 48. That is, the second conducting portion 74b and the second contacted portion 42b are made conductive by the contact between the second contact portion 72b and the second contacted portion 42b.

[0142] When the first conducting part 74a and the first conducting part 44a are connected, the control unit 48 detects the connection between the first conducting part 74a and the first conducting part 44a. That is, when the first conducting part 74a and the first conducting part 44a are connected, the control unit 48 detects... Figure 3 The first interval Sa shown is defined as a predetermined interval.

[0143] When the second conducting part 74b and the second conducting part 44b are connected, the control unit 48 detects the continuity between the second conducting part 74b and the second conducting part 44b. That is, when the second conducting part 74b and the second conducting part 44b are connected, the control unit 48 detects... Figure 3 The second interval Sb shown is defined as a predetermined interval.

[0144] The drying mechanism 55 functions when the first conducting part 74a and the first conducted part 44a are connected, and the second conducting part 74b and the second conducted part 44b are connected. Furthermore, the drying mechanism 55 ceases to function when at least one of the first conducting part 74a and the second conducting part 74b is not connected. In other words, in Figure 3 The first interval Sa shown is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining component 71a, and Figure 3 When the second interval Sb shown is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b, the control unit 48 of the recording device 11 enables the drying mechanism 55 to function. Furthermore, when the definition achieved by at least one of the first defining member 71a and the second defining member 71b is released, the control unit 48 of the recording device 11 stops the function of the drying mechanism 55.

[0145] Regarding the structure of the installation section

[0146] like Figure 9 As shown, the first contact portion 72a consists of a contact surface 75 that abuts against the first mounting portion 41a, and a first conductive portion 74a protruding from the center of the contact surface 75. The first conductive portion 74a is, for example, a male connector.

[0147] The lifting part 33 has a recess 47 at the center of the surface opposite the contact surface 75 of the first specified member 71a. The recess 47 is shaped like a hole 39 opening at the center of the bottom surface of a flared hole portion. In other words, the recess 47 is composed of a flared guide surface 46 as a side surface of the hole portion and a contact surface 45 as the bottom surface of the hole portion. The guide surface 46 is formed to be slightly open as the entrance side of the hole. In other words, the guide surface 46 has an inclined surface on the entrance side of the recess 47 and a cylindrical hole-shaped portion on the inner side of the recess 47. The cylindrical guide surface 76 and the cylindrical hole-shaped portion in the guide surface 46 are formed to a size that allows for fitting. A first conductive part 44a is disposed deep in the hole 39. The first conductive part 44a is, for example, a female connector. When the first specified member 71a is installed, the first conductive part 74a, as a male connector, protrudes from the hole 39.

[0148] Furthermore, the structures of the second specified component 71b and the second mounting portion 41b are the same as those of the first specified component 71a and the first mounting portion 41a. Therefore, the description of the structure of the second specified component 71b and the second mounting portion 41b is omitted.

[0149] Regarding the installation process

[0150] like Figure 10 As shown, when the first abutting portion 72a is inserted into the first abutted portion 42a, the first conductive portion 44a of the first abutting portion 72a protrudes from the hole 39 of the recess 47. Then, when the abutting surface 75 of the first abutting portion 72a abuts against the abutted surface 45 of the first abutted portion 42a, the first conductive portion 44a disposed deep within the hole 39 and the first conductive portion 74a protruding from the hole 39 become conductive. That is, by connecting the first conductive portion 44a, which is a female connector, and the first conductive portion 74a, which is a male connector, current flows in the closed circuit. As a result, the control unit 48 detects the contact between the abutting surface 75 and the abutted surface 45.

[0151] The abutting surface 75 and the abutted surface 45 may not be provided. Even without the abutting surface 75 and the abutted surface 45, the first conductive part 44a and the first conductive part 74a will still be conductive when the first specified component 71a is installed onto the first mounting part 41a. However, it is preferable that when the first specified component 71a is inserted into the first mounting part 41a, abutting occurs between the abutted surface 45 and the abutting surface 75, so that the abutted surface 45 bears the direct force from the abutting surface 75, rather than the connecting part of the connector.

[0152] Furthermore, the structures of the second specified component 71b and the second mounting portion 41b are the same as those of the first specified component 71a and the first mounting portion 41a. Therefore, the description of the operations performed in the second mounting portion 41b when the second specified component 71b is mounted onto the second mounting portion 41b is omitted.

[0153] The role of the implementation method

[0154] The function of this embodiment will be explained. Since the second embodiment is basically the same as the first embodiment, repeated explanations of its function will be omitted.

[0155] When the first abutting portion 72a is inserted into the recess 47, the abutting surface 75 of the first abutting portion 72a abuts against the abutting surface 45 of the first abutted portion 42a. This abutment connects the first conductive portion 44a, which is disposed deep within the hole 39, and the first conductive portion 74a protruding from the hole 39. That is, by connecting the first conductive portion 44a and the first conductive portion 74a, the control unit 48 detects the contact between the abutting surface 75 of the first abutting portion 72a and the abutting surface 45.

[0156] In the first mounting part 41a, the abutting surface 75 abuts against the abutted surface 45, thereby causing the first interval Sa to be defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a. Through the conduction of the first conductive part 44a and the first conductive part 74a, the control part 48 is able to detect the case where the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a.

[0157] Although in this state, the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a, the second interval Sb has not yet been defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. Therefore, the control unit 48 does not enable the drying mechanism 55 to function. That is, the drying device 51 is not enabled to function when the drying device 51 is not installed to make the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 in a proper positional relationship.

[0158] In this state, when the second abutting portion 72b is further inserted into the recess 47, the abutting surface 75 of the second abutting portion 72b abuts against the abutting surface 45 of the second abutted portion 42b. This abutment connects the second conductive portion 44b, which is disposed deep within the hole 39, and the second conductive portion 74b protruding from the hole 39. That is, by connecting the second conductive portion 44b and the second conductive portion 74b, the control unit 48 detects the contact between the abutting surface 75 of the second abutting portion 72b and the abutting surface 45.

[0159] In the second mounting part 41b, the abutting surface 75 and the abutted surface 45 abut against each other, thereby causing the second interval Sb to be defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. Through the conduction of the second conductive part 44b and the second conductive part 74b, the control part 48 is able to detect the situation where the second interval Sb is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b.

[0160] In this state, the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a, and the second interval Sb is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. Furthermore, the first defining member 71a and the second defining member 71b define the position of the drying mechanism 55 in the second transport direction Y2 on the support surface 25a as a predetermined position. In this state, the control unit 48 enables the drying mechanism 55 to function. That is, the drying device 51 can function when it is installed such that the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 are in a proper positional relationship. The user can fix the position of the drying device 51 by locking the rollers of the small caster 53a.

[0161] Effects of the implementation method

[0162] The effects of this implementation method will be explained.

[0163] In the recording system 100 and drying apparatus 51 of this embodiment, the same effects as those in (1), (2), (4) to (11), (13), and (14) of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0164] (15) The first conducting part 74a and the first conducting part 44a are connected by the contact between the first contacting part 72a and the first contacted part 42a, and the second conducting part 74b and the second conducting part 44b are connected by the contact between the second contacting part 72b and the second contacted part 42b. By connecting the recording device 11 and the drying device 51, a circuit for detecting contact is formed. That is, since the circuit for detecting contact will short-circuit when the condition achieved by contact is released, the function of the drying device 51 can be reliably stopped.

[0165] Third Implementation Method

[0166] The third embodiment will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Since the third embodiment is substantially the same as the first and second embodiments, repeated descriptions will be omitted by using the same symbols to denote the same structures.

[0167] Regarding the structure of the recording system

[0168] like Figure 11As shown, the recording system 100 includes a first detection unit 43a that detects the contact between the first contact portion 72a and the first contacted portion 42a. The detection result of the first detection unit 43a is notified to the control unit 48. By causing the first contact portion 72a to contact the first contacted portion 42a, the system achieves the desired contact. Figure 3 The first interval Sa shown is defined as a predetermined interval.

[0169] The second contact portion 72b has a second conductive portion 74b that communicates with the second contacted portion 42b. The second contacted portion 42b has a second conductive portion 44b that communicates with the second contact portion 72b. Furthermore, the control unit 48 and the second control unit 98 are connected together via a connection cable (not shown) connecting the recording device 11 and the drying device 51.

[0170] The second conductive part 74b is connected to the second control part 98. The second conductive part 44b is connected to the control part 48. The control part 48 and the second control part 98 are connected together via a connecting cable (not shown). By making the second abutting part 72b abut against the second abutted part 42b, thereby... Figure 3 The second interval Sb shown is defined as a predetermined interval. Furthermore, by abutting the second contact portion 72b against the second contacted portion 42b, the second conducting portion 74b and the second conducting portion 44b are brought into contact, thereby allowing current to flow in the closed circuit. More specifically, current flows from the control unit 48 through a connecting cable (not shown), the second control unit 98, the second conducting portion 74b, and the second conducting portion 44b to the control unit 48. That is, the second conducting portion 74b and the second contacted portion 42b are made conductive by the contact between the second contact portion 72b and the second contacted portion 42b.

[0171] When the second conducting part 74b and the second conducting part 44b are connected, the control unit 48 detects the connection between the second conducting part 74b and the second conducting part 44b. That is, when the second conducting part 74b and the second conducting part 44b are connected, the control unit 48 detects the connection between them. Figure 3 The second interval Sb shown is detected when a predetermined interval is specified.

[0172] The drying mechanism 55 functions when the first detection unit 43a detects contact between the first contacting part 72a and the first contacted part 42a, and the second conducting part 74b and the second conducting part 44b are connected. Furthermore, the drying mechanism 55 ceases operation when at least one of the following occurs: the first detection unit 43a fails to detect contact, or the second conducting part 74b fails to conduct. In other words, in... Figure 3 The first interval Sa shown is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining component 71a, and Figure 3When the second interval Sb shown is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b, the control unit 48 of the recording device 11 enables the drying mechanism 55 to function. Furthermore, when the definition achieved by at least one of the first defining member 71a and the second defining member 71b is released, the control unit 48 of the recording device 11 stops the function of the drying mechanism 55.

[0173] The role of the implementation method

[0174] The function of this embodiment will be explained. Since the third embodiment is basically the same as the first and second embodiments, repeated explanations of its function will be omitted.

[0175] When the first abutting part 72a is inserted into the recess 47, the abutting surface 75 of the first abutting part 72a abuts against the abutting surface 45 of the first abutted part 42a. Through this abutment, the first detection part 43a, which is disposed deep in the hole 39, detects the detected part 73 protruding from the hole 39.

[0176] In the first mounting part 41a, the abutting surface 75 abuts against the abutted surface 45, thereby causing the first interval Sa to be defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a. Based on the detection result of the first detection part 43a, the control part 48 is able to detect the case where the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a.

[0177] Although in this state, the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a, the second interval Sb has not yet been defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. Therefore, the control unit 48 does not enable the drying mechanism 55 to function. That is, the drying device 51 is not enabled to function when the drying device 51 is not installed to make the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 in a proper positional relationship.

[0178] In this state, when the second abutting portion 72b is further inserted into the recess 47, the abutting surface 75 of the second abutting portion 72b abuts against the abutting surface 45 of the second abutted portion 42b. This abutment connects the second conductive portion 44b, which is disposed deep within the hole 39, and the second conductive portion 74b protruding from the hole 39. That is, by connecting the second conductive portion 44b and the second conductive portion 74b, the control unit 48 detects the contact between the abutting surface 75 of the second abutting portion 72b and the abutting surface 45.

[0179] In the second mounting part 41b, the abutting surface 75 abuts against the abutted surface 45, thereby causing the second interval Sb to be defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. Through the conduction between the second conductive part 44b and the second conductive part 74b, the control part 48 is able to detect the situation where the second interval Sb is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b.

[0180] In this state, the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a, and the second interval Sb is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. Furthermore, by means of the first defining member 71a and the second defining member 71b, the position of the drying mechanism 55 in the second transport direction Y2 on the support surface 25a is defined as a predetermined position. In this state, the control unit 48 enables the drying mechanism 55 to function. That is, the drying device 51 can function when it is installed such that the recording device 11 and the drying device 51 are in a proper positional relationship. The user can fix the position of the drying device 51 by locking the rollers of the small caster 53a.

[0181] There is a situation where the drying device 51 is pressed due to accidental contact between the user and the basket 52 of the drying device 51, causing the locked roller surface of the small caster 53a to slide on the floor surface 101, thereby moving the position of the drying device 51. As a result, for example, when the contact surface 75 of the second regulating member 71b leaves the contact surface 45, the second conductive part 44b and the second conductive part 74b become disconnected. That is, a short circuit occurs between the second conductive part 44b and the second conductive part 74b. At this time, due to the short circuit between the second conductive part 44b and the second conductive part 74b, the control unit 48 can detect the situation where the regulation implemented by the second regulating member 71b has been released.

[0182] Effects of the implementation method

[0183] The effects of this implementation method will be explained.

[0184] In the recording system 100 and drying apparatus 51 of this embodiment, the same effects as those in (1), (2), (4) to (11), (13), and (14) of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0185] (16) The recording system 100 has a first detection unit 43a that detects the contact between the first contact portion 72a and the first contacted portion 42a, and the second conducting portion 74b and the second conducting portion 44b are turned on by the contact between the second contact portion 72b and the second contacted portion 42b. On the first specified component 71a side, a circuit for detecting contact is formed only in the device having the first detection unit 43a in the recording device 11 and the drying device 51. Furthermore, on the second specified component 71b side, by turning on the recording device 11 and the drying device 51, a circuit for detecting contact is formed in both the recording device 11 and the drying device 51. By having two different circuits for detecting contact in the recording system 100, the frequency of simultaneous occurrence of detection failures on the first specified component 71a side and detection failures on the second specified component 71b side can be reduced.

[0186] Example of a change in implementation method

[0187] This embodiment can be modified and implemented in the following ways. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to implement them without causing technical inconsistencies.

[0188] The number of mounting parts 41 and the number of specified components 71 can each be one. For example, in Figure 1 In this case, the recording device 11 may also have a mounting portion 41 located below the roll body R and approximately at the center of the width direction X of the recording medium M. Furthermore, the drying device 51 may also have a designated component 71 located opposite the mounting portion 41.

[0189] The number of mounting portions 41 and the number of defining components 71 can each be three. In addition to the two mounting portions 41a and 41b in the first embodiment and the two defining components 71a and 71b in the first embodiment, the recording device 11 may also have a mounting portion 41 located below the roll body R and approximately at the center of the width direction X of the recording medium M. Furthermore, the drying device 51 may further have a defining component 71 located opposite the mounting portion 41. With three defining components 71, the position of the drying device 51 can be defined in such a way that the interval S between the drying mechanism 55 and the support surface 25a is uniform not only in the width direction X of the recording medium M but also in the second transport direction Y2.

[0190] In the second embodiment, the power line used to heat the drying mechanism 55 can be connected from the first conducting part 74a to the first conductive part 44a, and further connected from the second conducting part 74b to the second conductive part 44b. Thus, power is supplied to the drying mechanism 55 when the first interval Sa is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member 71a and the second interval Sb is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member 71b. More specifically, the drying mechanism 55 functions by supplying power from the power supply unit 99 to the drying mechanism 55 via the first conducting part 74a, the first conductive part 44a, the second conductive part 44b, and the second conducting part 74b. Furthermore, the function of the drying mechanism 55 is stopped by stopping the power supply from the power supply unit 99 when at least one of the first conducting part 74a and the second conducting part 74b experiences a short circuit.

[0191] In the second embodiment, the first conducting portion 74a and the second conducting portion 74b can be directly connected together without passing through the second control portion 98. Furthermore, the first conducting portion 44a is connected to the control portion 48, and the second conducting portion 44b is also connected to the control portion 48. The first conducting portion 74a and the first conducting portion 44a come into contact through the contact between the first abutting portion 72a and the first abutted portion 42a. Similarly, the second conducting portion 74b and the second conducting portion 44b come into contact through the contact between the second abutting portion 72b and the second abutted portion 42b. Thus, current flows through the closed circuit. More specifically, current flows from the control portion 48 through the first conducting portion 44a, the first conducting portion 74a, the second conducting portion 74b, and the second conducting portion 44b to the control portion 48. Therefore, the control unit 48 can also detect the situation where the first conducting unit 74a and the first conducting unit 44a are conducting, and the second conducting unit 74b and the second conducting unit 44b are conducting.

[0192] In the second embodiment, the first conductive part 44a and the second conductive part 44b can be directly connected together without passing through the control part 48. Furthermore, the first conductive part 74a is connected to the second control part 98, and the second conductive part 74b is connected to the second control part 98. The first conductive part 74a and the first conductive part 44a come into contact through the contact between the first abutting part 72a and the first abutted part 42a. Similarly, the second conductive part 74b and the second conductive part 44b come into contact through the contact between the second abutting part 72b and the second abutted part 42b. Thus, current flows through the closed circuit. More specifically, current flows from the second control part 98 through the first conductive part 74a, the first conductive part 44a, the second conductive part 44b, and the second conductive part 74b to the second control part 98. Therefore, the second control unit 98 can also detect the situation where the first conducting unit 74a and the first conducting unit 44a are conducting, and the second conducting unit 74b and the second conducting unit 44b are conducting. Furthermore, the second control unit 98 can also notify the control unit 48 of this result.

[0193] In the second embodiment, either the recording device 11 or the drying device 51 may have a first detection unit 43a that detects the contact between the first contact portion 72a and the first contacted portion 42a. For example, when the first specified component 71a is installed, the detected portion 73 and the first conductive portion 74a protrude from the hole 39. The first detection unit 43a and the first conductive portion 44a are arranged side by side deep within the hole 39. The first detection unit 43a detects the detected portion 73 protruding from the hole 39, and the first conductive portion 74a is in communication with the first conductive portion 44a. Moreover, the detection of the contact on the first specified component 71a side can be performed using both the communication between the first conductive portion 74a and the first conductive portion 44a and the first detection unit 43a. This improves the reliability of the detection on the first specified component 71a side.

[0194] In the second embodiment, either the recording device 11 or the drying device 51 may have a second detection unit 43b that detects the contact between the second contact portion 72b and the second contacted portion 42b. For example, when the second specified component 71b is installed, the detected portion 73 and the second conductive portion 74b protrude from the hole 39. The second detection unit 43b and the second conductive portion 44b are arranged side by side deep within the hole 39. The second detection unit 43b detects the detected portion 73 protruding from the hole 39, and the second conductive portion 74b is in communication with the second conductive portion 44b. Moreover, the contact detection on the second specified component 71b side can be performed using both the communication between the second conductive portion 74b and the second conductive portion 44b and the second detection unit 43b. This improves the reliability of the detection on the second specified component 71b side.

[0195] The drying mechanism 55 can also be a drying mechanism that only has a heating mechanism. In this case, "the drying mechanism functions" means that the heater tube 56a begins to heat up by starting to energize it. "The function of the drying mechanism stops" means that the heating of the heater tube 56a stops by stopping to energize it. Even in a drying mechanism that only has a heating mechanism, the distance S between the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 can be predetermined by the defining component 71, thereby drying the recording medium M in an appropriate state.

[0196] The drying mechanism 55 can also be a drying mechanism that only has an air supply mechanism. In this case, "the drying mechanism is functioning" means that the rotation of the air supply fan 58 begins. "The function of the drying mechanism is stopped" means that the rotation of the air supply fan 58 stops. Even in a drying mechanism that only has an air supply mechanism, the distance S between the support surface 25a and the drying mechanism 55 can be predetermined by the defining component 71, thereby drying the recording medium M in an appropriate state.

[0197] The first mounting portion 41a and the second mounting portion 41b may also have only one of the upper opening / closing member 27 and the lower opening / closing member 28. Therefore, the first defining member 71a and the second defining member 71b can be easily mounted onto the first mounting portion 41a and the second mounting portion 41b, and the situation where the first detection portion 43a and the second detection portion 43b within the recess 47 erroneously enter the detection state can be suppressed.

[0198] The technical concepts and their effects, as understood from the implementation methods and variations, are as follows.

[0199] The following text describes the technical ideas and effects learned based on the above-described embodiments and modifications.

[0200] (A) A recording system comprising a recording device for recording by attaching a liquid to a recording medium being transported in a transport direction, and a drying device having a drying mechanism for drying the recording medium to which the liquid has been attached, wherein the recording device has a support surface supporting the recording medium on a downstream side of the recording section in the transport direction, the drying device being configured to be mounted on the recording device at a position opposite the support surface and the drying mechanism, and either the recording device or the drying device having a defining component that, when the drying device is mounted on the recording device, defines a predetermined interval between the support surface and the drying mechanism, wherein the drying mechanism functions when the predetermined interval is defined by the defining component, and the function of the drying mechanism ceases when the definition implemented by the defining component is released.

[0201] According to this structure, when the interval between the support surface and the drying mechanism is predetermined by a specified component, the liquid-coated surface of the recording medium on the support surface supporting the recording medium and the drying mechanism are in a proper positional relationship. By enabling the drying mechanism to function when the interval between the support surface and the drying mechanism is predetermined, the recording medium can be dried in a proper state. Furthermore, when the predetermined interval is removed by the specified component, the liquid-coated surface of the recording medium on the support surface supporting the recording medium and the drying mechanism will no longer be in a proper positional relationship. By stopping the function of the drying mechanism when the predetermined interval is removed, it is possible to prevent the drying mechanism from functioning when the recording medium is not properly dried.

[0202] (B) The above-mentioned recording system may also be adopted in the following manner, that is, having a plurality of the specified components, wherein the intervals of the plurality of parts are specified as a predetermined interval by the plurality of specified components, the drying mechanism functions when all the intervals of the plurality of parts are specified as the predetermined interval, and the function of the drying mechanism stops when the specification implemented by at least one of the plurality of specified components is released.

[0203] According to this structure, when all the intervals between the support surface and the multiple portions of the drying mechanism are predetermined by multiple predetermined components, the entire surface of the recording medium to be dried and the entire surface of the recording medium to be dried in the drying mechanism are in a proper positional relationship. By enabling the drying mechanism to function when all the intervals between the multiple portions are predetermined, the entire surface of the recording medium to be dried can be dried in a proper state. Furthermore, when the determination implemented by at least one of the multiple predetermined components is released, at least a portion of the surface of the entire surface to be dried will not be in a proper positional relationship. By stopping the function of the drying mechanism when the determination implemented by at least one of the multiple predetermined components is released, it is possible to prevent the drying mechanism from functioning in a state where at least a portion of the surface of the entire surface to be dried is not properly dried.

[0204] (C) The above-described recording system may also be configured such that it has a first defining component and a second defining component, wherein the first defining component is disposed on one side of the recording medium in the width direction of the recording medium, which is further outward than the range in which the recording medium is transported, and the second defining component is disposed on the other side of the recording medium in the width direction of the recording medium, which is further outward than the range in which the recording medium is transported. The drying mechanism functions when the first defining component determines a predetermined interval in the first side and the second defining component determines a predetermined interval in the second side. The function of the drying mechanism ceases when the determination achieved by at least one of the first defining component and the second defining component is released.

[0205] According to this structure, a first interval on the side outermost in the width direction of the recording medium compared to the range to which the recording medium is transported is defined as a predetermined interval by a first defining member. Thus, on one side, the dried surface of the recording medium and the drying surface of the recording medium in the drying mechanism are appropriately positioned. Furthermore, a second defining member is used to define a second interval on the other side outermost in the width direction of the recording medium compared to the range to which the recording medium is transported, also as a predetermined interval. Thus, on the other side, the dried surface of the recording medium and the drying surface of the recording medium in the drying mechanism are appropriately positioned. In other words, the first and second defining members ensure that the dried surface of the recording medium and the drying surface of the recording medium in the drying mechanism are appropriately positioned from one side to the other in the width direction of the recording medium. The drying mechanism functions when the first interval on one side is defined as a predetermined interval by the first defining member and the second interval on the other side is defined as a predetermined interval by the second defining member. Therefore, the recording medium can be dried in an appropriate state from one side to the other. Furthermore, when the regulation implemented by at least one of the first and second regulating components is released, the function of the drying mechanism ceases. Thus, it is possible to prevent the drying mechanism from functioning in a state where the surface of the recording medium on either side of the recording medium's width direction is not properly dried.

[0206] (D) In ​​the above-described recording system, the following method may also be adopted: either the recording device or the drying device has a first defined component, the first defined component has a first abutting portion that abuts against the other party of the recording device and the drying device, the other party having a first abutted portion abutted against by the first abutting portion; either the recording device or the drying device has a second defined component, the second defined component has a second abutting portion that abuts against the other party of the recording device and the drying device, the other party having a second abutted portion abutted against by the second abutting portion; the first interval is defined as a predetermined interval by the abutting of the first abutting portion against the first abutted portion, and the second interval is defined as a predetermined interval by the abutting of the second abutting portion against the second abutted portion.

[0207] According to this structure, the first abutting portion and the first abutted portion of the first defining member abut each other, thereby defining a predetermined interval. Since the positional relationship is uniformly determined by bringing the members into contact with each other, the first interval can be reliably defined as a predetermined interval. The second interval is defined as a predetermined interval by bringing the second abutting portion and the second abutted portion of the second defining member abut each other. Since the positional relationship is uniformly determined by bringing the members into contact with each other, the second interval can be reliably defined as a predetermined interval.

[0208] (E) The above-described recording system may also be configured such that it has a first detection unit that detects the contact between the first contact portion and the first contacted portion, and a second detection unit that detects the contact between the second contact portion and the second contacted portion.

[0209] According to this structure, a circuit for detecting contact by the first detection unit is formed only in the device having the first detection unit in the recording device and the drying device. Furthermore, a circuit for detecting contact by the second detection unit is formed only in the device having the second detection unit in the recording device and the drying device. That is, since the circuit for detecting contact is formed only in one of the devices, the circuit structure of the recording system can be simplified.

[0210] (F) In the above recording system, the following method may also be adopted: the first abutting part has a first conductive part that is connected to the first abutted part, the first abutted part has a first conductive part that is connected to the first abutting part, the second abutting part has a second conductive part that is connected to the second abutted part, and the second abutted part has a second conductive part that is connected to the second abutting part. The first conductive part and the first conductive part are connected by the abutting of the first abutting part and the first abutted part, and the second conductive part and the second conductive part are connected by the abutting of the second abutting part and the second abutted part.

[0211] According to this structure, by connecting the recording device and the drying device, a circuit for detecting contact is formed. That is, since the circuit for detecting contact will short-circuit when the condition achieved by contact is released, the function of the drying device can be reliably stopped.

[0212] (G) In the recording system, the following method may also be adopted, namely, having a first detection unit for detecting the contact between the first abutting part and the first abutted part, the second abutting part having a second conductive part that is connected to the second abutted part, and the second abutted part having a second conductive part that is connected to the second conductive part, thereby making the second conductive part and the second conductive part connected through the contact between the second abutting part and the second abutted part.

[0213] According to this structure, on the first specified component side, a circuit for detecting contact is formed only in the device having the first detection unit, either the recording device or the drying device. Furthermore, on the second specified component side, by connecting the recording device and the drying device, a circuit for detecting contact is formed in both the recording device and the drying device. By having two different circuits for detecting contact in the recording system, the frequency of simultaneous occurrence of detection failures on both the first and second specified component sides can be reduced.

[0214] (H) In the above recording system, the recording device and the drying device can also be arranged on the same plane, the support surface extends in a direction intersecting the plane, and the drying device moves on the plane so that the drying device is mounted on the recording device from a direction parallel to the plane.

[0215] According to this structure, by moving the drying device on the floor surface (which serves as the mounting surface) while installing the drying device onto the recording device from a direction intersecting the support surface, the distance between the support surface and the drying mechanism can be easily defined as a predetermined distance. Furthermore, by moving the drying device away from the recording device, the drying device can be easily separated from the recording device.

[0216] (I) In the above-mentioned recording system, the recording device may also be configured such that the recording device has a control unit that controls the recording system, which enables the drying mechanism to function when the interval is defined as a predetermined interval by the specified component, and stops the function of the drying mechanism when the specified interval implemented by the specified component is released.

[0217] According to this structure, the recording system is controlled by the recording device, thereby controlling the drying mechanism of the drying unit in a way that the surface of the recording medium is in an appropriate state based on the amount of liquid sprayed from the recording unit onto the recording medium. Furthermore, not only can the function of the drying unit be stopped when the drying mechanism malfunctions, but the entire recording system, including the recording device, can also be stopped at an appropriate timing. In other words, by controlling the recording system through the recording device, coordinated control of the recording device and the drying unit is possible.

[0218] (J) In the above-mentioned recording system, the drying device may also be provided with a power supply unit that supplies power to the drying mechanism.

[0219] According to this structure, power can be supplied to the drying mechanism from the power supply unit of the drying device. Therefore, the power capacity of the power supply unit of the recording device can be reduced to an amount corresponding to the power capacity required to supply power to the drying mechanism. That is, among users of the recording device, users who do not require a drying device can avoid unnecessary financial burdens.

[0220] (K) In the above recording system, the specified component can also be configured to switch between a first posture and a second posture, wherein the first posture is a posture in which the interval is specified as a predetermined interval, and the second posture is a posture in which the floor area occupied by the specified component is smaller compared to the first posture.

[0221] According to this structure, when the user is not using the drying device, by switching the posture of the drying device to a second posture in which the floor area occupied by the specified components is smaller than that in the first posture, the drying device can be stored in a narrower space.

[0222] (L) The drying device is configured to be mounted on a recording device having a recording section for recording by attaching liquid to a recording medium being transported in a transport direction, and a support surface for supporting the recording medium on a downstream side in the transport direction. The drying device also has a drying mechanism for drying the recording medium with the attached liquid at a position opposite the support surface when mounted on the recording device. The drying device has a defining member that defines a predetermined interval between the support surface and the drying mechanism. The drying mechanism functions when the predetermined interval is defined by the defining member, and ceases to function when the definition implemented by the defining member is released.

[0223] According to this structure, when the distance between the support surface and the drying mechanism is predetermined by a specified component, the liquid-coated surface of the recording medium on the support surface supporting the recording medium and the drying mechanism are in a proper positional relationship. Therefore, by enabling the drying mechanism to function when the distance between the support surface and the drying mechanism is predetermined, the recording medium can be dried in a proper state. Furthermore, when the distance between the support surface and the drying mechanism is not predetermined by the specified component, the liquid-coated surface of the recording medium on the support surface supporting the recording medium and the drying mechanism are not in a proper positional relationship. Therefore, by stopping the function of the drying mechanism when the predetermined distance is removed by the specified component, it is possible to prevent the drying mechanism from functioning when the recording medium is not properly dried.

[0224] Symbol Explanation

[0225] 11…Recording device; 12…Basket; 13…Foot; 13a…Small caster; 14…Cover; 15…Operating unit; 15a…Display unit; 15b…Operating button; 20…Recording unit; 21…Conveying unit; 23…Contact surface; 24…Contact surface; 25…Support unit; 25a…Supporting surface; 27…Upper opening and closing component; 27a…Opening and closing center; 27b…Outer side; 27c…Inner side; 28…Lower opening and closing component; 28a…Opening and closing center; 28b…Outer side; 28c…Inner side; 29…Force-applying component; 30…Force-applying component; 31…Fixing part; 32…Sliding part 33… Lifting part; 34… Lifting center; 35… Sliding surface; 36… Sliding surface; 37… Force-applying component; 38… Force-applying component; 39… Hole; 41… Mounting part; 41a… First mounting part as mounting part; 41b… Second mounting part as mounting part; 42a… First abutting part; 42b… Second abutting part; 43a… First detection part; 43b… Second detection part; 44a… First conductive part; 44b… Second conductive part; 45… Abutting surface; 46… Guide surface; 48… Control part; 49… Power supply unit; 51… Drying device; 52… …basket body; 53…foot; 53a…small casters; 54…cover; 55…drying mechanism; 55a…heat dissipation surface; 56…heating section; 56a…heater tube; 56b…reflector; 57…flow channel; 58…blower; 59…inlet; 60…outlet; 71…specified component; 71a…first specified component as specified component; 71b…second specified component as specified component; 72a…first contact part; 72b…second contact part; 73…tested part; 74a…first conductive part; 74b…second conductive part; 75…contact surface; 76…guided surface ; 98…Second control unit; 99…Power supply unit; 100…Recording system; 101…Floor surface; 102…Second drying mechanism; D1…Prying direction; D2…Prying direction; D3…Sliding direction; D4…Sliding direction; M…Recording medium; R…Roll body; S…Interval; Sa…First interval as interval; Sb…Second interval as interval; W…Range of the recording medium being transported; W1…Counterclockwise rotation direction; W2…Clockwise rotation direction; X…Width direction; Y…Depth direction; Y1…Transport direction; Y2…Second transport direction; Z…Vertical direction.

Claims

1. A recording system, characterized in that, It includes a recording apparatus that performs recording by attaching a liquid to a recording medium being transported in the transport direction, and a drying apparatus having a drying mechanism for drying the recording medium to which the liquid has adhered. In this recording system, The recording device has a support surface on the downstream side of the recording section in the transport direction for supporting the recording medium. The drying device is configured to be mountable onto the recording device at a position opposite the support surface and the drying mechanism. Either the recording device or the drying device has a defined component that, when the drying device is mounted onto the recording device, defines the distance between the support surface and the drying mechanism as a predetermined distance. The drying mechanism functions when the specified interval is determined by the specified component to be the predetermined interval, and ceases to function when the specified interval is removed by the specified component.

2. The recording system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The recording system has multiple of the specified components. By using multiple specified components, the intervals between multiple locations are defined as predetermined intervals. The drying mechanism functions when all of the intervals in the plurality of locations are defined as the predetermined interval, and ceases to function when the definition implemented by at least one of the plurality of defined components is released.

3. The recording system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The recording system has a first specified component as the specified component and a second specified component as the specified component. The first defining component is disposed on the outer side relative to the range over which the recording medium is transported, in the width direction of the recording medium. The second defining component is disposed on a side further outward than the range in which the recording medium is transported, in the width direction of the recording medium. The drying mechanism functions when the first defining component determines a predetermined interval as the first interval on one side, and the second defining component determines a predetermined interval as the second interval on the other side. When the regulation implemented by at least one of the first and second regulating components is released, the function of the drying mechanism ceases.

4. The recording system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, Either the recording device or the drying device has the first specified component. The first specified component has a first contact portion that abuts against either the recording device or the drying device. The other party has a first abutted portion that is abutted by the first abutting portion. Either the recording device or the drying device has the second specified component. The second specified component has a second contact portion that abuts against either the recording device or the drying device. The other party has a second abutted portion that is abutted by the second abutting portion. By abutting the first contact portion and abutting the first contacted portion, the first interval is defined as a predetermined interval. The second abutting part abuts against the second abutted part, thereby defining the second interval as a predetermined interval.

5. The recording system as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The recording system includes a first detection unit for detecting the contact between the first contacting part and the first contacted part, and a second detection unit for detecting the contact between the second contacting part and the second contacted part.

6. The recording system as described in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The first abutting portion has a first conductive portion that is connected to the first abutted portion. The first abutting portion has a first conductive portion that is in communication with the first abutting portion. The second abutting portion has a second conductive portion that is connected to the second abutted portion. The second abutted portion has a second conductive portion that is in communication with the second abutted portion. The first contacting part and the first contacted part abut each other, thereby making the first conducting part and the first conducting part connected. The second contacting part and the second contacted part are connected by contact between the second contacting part and the second contacted part.

7. The recording system as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The recording system has a first detection unit that detects the contact between the first contacting part and the first part being contacted. The second abutting portion has a second conductive portion that is connected to the second abutted portion. The second abutted portion has a second conductive portion that is conductive to the second conductive portion. The second contacting part and the second contacted part are connected by contact between the second contacting part and the second contacted part.

8. The recording system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The recording device and the drying device are mounted on the same plane. The supporting surface extends in a direction intersecting the plane. The drying device is moved on the plane, thereby mounting the drying device onto the recording device from a direction parallel to the plane.

9. The recording system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The recording device has a control unit for controlling the recording system. The control unit enables the drying mechanism to function when the interval is predetermined by the specified component, and stops the function of the drying mechanism when the specified interval is deactivated by the specified component.

10. The recording system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The drying apparatus has a power supply unit that supplies power to the drying mechanism.

11. The recording system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The specified component is configured to switch between a first posture and a second posture, wherein the first posture is a posture in which the interval is specified as a predetermined interval, and the second posture is a posture in which the floor area occupied by the specified component is smaller compared to the first posture.

12. A drying apparatus, characterized in that, The drying device is configured to be mounted on a recording device having a recording section for recording by adhering liquid to a recording medium being transported in a transport direction, and a support surface for supporting the recording medium on a downstream side in the transport direction. The drying device also includes a drying mechanism for drying the liquid-adhered recording medium at a position opposite the support surface when mounted on the recording device. The drying apparatus has a defined component that specifies a predetermined interval between the support surface and the drying mechanism. The drying mechanism functions when the specified interval is determined by the specified component to be the predetermined interval, and ceases to function when the specified interval is removed by the specified component.

Images