recording device

By designing a retractable feed tray and paper stacker in the image forming apparatus, the problems of easy loss of the paper feed tray and large-scale apparatus are solved, and the stable storage of the tray and the compactness of the apparatus are achieved.

CN115676444BActive Publication Date: 2026-07-21SEIKO EPSON CORP
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
SEIKO EPSON CORP
Filing Date
2022-07-28
Publication Date
2026-07-21

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Abstract

The present application provides a recording device capable of accommodating a feeding tray. The recording device includes: a device main body including a recording unit that records a medium; a feeding tray that is installed to the device main body and places the medium when a recording process is performed by the recording unit, the feeding tray being configured to be detachable from the device main body; and a paper discharge stacker that places the medium recorded by the recording unit, the feeding tray being capable of being accommodated in a lower portion of the device main body in a height direction when the recording process is not performed by the recording unit.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a recording device. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, as shown in Patent Document 1, there were known image forming apparatuses having a paper feed tray that was detachable from the main body of the apparatus.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 7-112853

[0004] However, in the above-mentioned device, when the paper supply tray is removed from the main body of the device and stored separately from the main body, there is a technical problem that the paper supply tray is easily lost.

[0005] It should be noted that, in the case of a configuration that houses the unloaded paper supply tray within the main body of the device, it is necessary to prevent the main body of the device from becoming too large. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The recording device includes: a device body having a recording unit for recording media; a feed tray mounted on the device body when the recording unit is performing recording processing and holding the media, the feed tray being detachable from the device body; and a paper stacker holding the media recorded by the recording unit, the feed tray being retractable into the lower part of the device body in the height direction when the recording unit is not performing recording processing.

[0007] A recording device, characterized in that it comprises: a device body having a recording unit for recording a medium; a feed tray mounted on the device body when the recording unit is performing recording processing, holding the medium, and the feed tray being detachable from the device body; a paper stacker holding the medium recorded by the recording unit; and a tray storage unit disposed below the paper stacker in the height direction of the device body, for storing the feed tray when the recording unit is not performing recording processing. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1A This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the recording device.

[0009] Figure 1B This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the recording device.

[0010] Figure 1C This is a partially enlarged view showing the structure of the recording device.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the configuration of the recording device.

[0012] Figure 3AThis is a perspective view showing the installation method of the feed tray.

[0013] Figure 3B This is a perspective view showing the installation method of the feed tray.

[0014] Figure 3C This is a perspective view showing the installation method of the feed tray.

[0015] Figure 3D This is a perspective view showing the installation method of the feed tray.

[0016] Figure 3E This is a perspective view showing the installation method of the feed tray.

[0017] Figure 4A This is an explanatory diagram showing the storage mechanism of the feed tray.

[0018] Figure 4B This is an explanatory diagram showing the storage mechanism of the feed tray.

[0019] Figure 4C This is an explanatory diagram showing the storage mechanism of the feed tray.

[0020] Figure 4D This is an explanatory diagram showing the storage mechanism of the feed tray.

[0021] Figure 5A This is an explanatory diagram showing the mounting mechanism of the feed tray.

[0022] Figure 5B This is an explanatory diagram showing the mounting mechanism of the feed tray.

[0023] Figure 5C This is an explanatory diagram showing the mounting mechanism of the feed tray.

[0024] Figure 6A This is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the paper stacker.

[0025] Figure 6B This is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the paper stacker.

[0026] Figure 6C This is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the paper stacker.

[0027] Figure 7A This is an explanatory diagram showing the storage status of the feed tray.

[0028] Figure 7B This is an explanatory diagram showing the storage status of the feed tray.

[0029] Figure 7C This is an explanatory diagram showing the storage status of the feed tray.

[0030] Figure 7D This is an explanatory diagram showing the storage status of the feed tray.

[0031] Figure 8A It is a three-dimensional diagram showing the configuration of other recording devices.

[0032] Figure 8B It is a three-dimensional diagram showing the configuration of other recording devices.

[0033] Figure 8C It is a three-dimensional diagram showing the configuration of other recording devices.

[0034] Figure 8D This is a partially enlarged view showing the configuration of other recording devices.

[0035] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0036] 1. 1A...Recording device; 2...Main body of the device; 4...Operating unit; 9...Power supply unit; 10...Frame; 10a...Opening; 11...Top cover; 12...Media supply port; 13...Opening and closing cover; 14...Edge guide; 15...Window; 17...Conveyor path; 20...Conveyor unit; 30...Recording unit; 31...Recording head; 32...Carriage; 33...Ink cartridge; 34...Pressure plate; 36...Waste liquid recovery unit; 40...Discharge unit; 50...Paper stacker; 50a...First stacker; 50b...Second stacker; 50c...Third stacker; 55...Abutment part; 56...Guide; 58...Stacker storage part; 60. ...feed tray; 60a...first tray; 60b...second tray; 61...placement surface; 62...side; 63...first shaft; 64...second shaft; 70...tray storage part; 71...guide; 72...restriction block; 72a...restriction surface; 73...engaging part; 74...engaged part; 80...mounting part; 81...receiving part; 82...insertion port; 83...support part; 83a...first wall part; 83b...second wall part; 84...restriction wall part; 86...bending part; 87...moving area; 88...bending part; 90...recording component tray; 91...recording insertion port; 100...feed tray; 101...placement surface. Detailed Implementation

[0037] 1. First Implementation Method

[0038] First, the configuration of the recording device 1 will be described. The recording device 1 is, for example, an inkjet printer capable of recording on paper S, which serves as the medium. The recording device 1 of this embodiment is capable of recording on A4 and A3 size paper S.

[0039] like Figure 1A As shown, the recording device 1 includes a device body 2. The device body 2 has a frame 10 forming the outer casing of the device body 2. An operation section 4 for operating the recording device 1 is provided on the front side of the frame 10 in the +Y direction. The operation section 4 is a panel that extends horizontally along the X-axis and is provided with a power button 4a that is operated when the recording device 1 is turned on or off, an input button 4b that can input various operation information, etc.

[0040] A paper stacker 50 is disposed on the front side of the frame 10 in the +Y direction, for holding the paper S discharged from the device body 2. The paper stacker 50 is configured to be able to be pulled out from the front of the frame 10 in the +Y direction in the +Y direction. Figure 1B ).

[0041] In the main body 2 of the device, a feed tray 60 is housed at the bottom of the paper stacker 50. The feed tray 60 is configured to be detachable from the main body 2 of the device.

[0042] like Figure 1B As shown, in the recording apparatus 1 of this embodiment, it is configured to allow the setting and feeding of paper S from the back side of the frame 10 in the -Y direction. Specifically, a media supply port 12 is provided at the upper part of the frame 10 to supply paper S into the device body 2. The media supply port 12 is a rectangular opening extending in the X-axis direction. Mounting portions 80 are provided at both ends of the media supply port 12 in the X-axis direction. A feed tray 60 is mounted on the mounting portions 80.

[0043] An opening / closing cover 13 is provided above the media supply port 12, which can be opened and closed. The opening / closing cover 13 is located at the +Y direction end and can rotate about an axis extending in the direction along the X axis. By setting the opening / closing cover 13 to the open state, the media supply port 12 and the mounting part 80 are exposed, and the feed tray 60 can be mounted on the mounting part 80.

[0044] In addition, such as Figure 1C As shown, an edge guide 14 is provided at the media supply port 12 of the main body 2 to restrict the width direction of the paper S. The edge guide 14 is a plate-shaped component, which extends along the conveying direction D1 of the paper S. Figure 2Configuration. The edge guide 14 is provided on the -X direction side and the +X direction side of the media supply port 12, and can move in the direction along the X-axis in conjunction with the linkage member. Thus, it can correspond to various sizes of paper S placed on the feed tray 60.

[0045] The feed tray 60 is a plate-shaped component. The feed tray 60 has a mounting surface 61 capable of holding paper S. The mounting surface 61 is generally flat. The paper S placed on the feed tray 60 is fed into the device body 2 via the media supply port 12. That is, in this embodiment, when recording processing is performed on the paper S, the feed tray 60 stored in the device body 2 is removed and installed in the mounting section 80. On the other hand, when not performing recording processing, the feed tray 60 is removed from the mounting section 80 and stored in the device body 12 (the lower part of the paper stacker 50).

[0046] like Figure 2 As shown, the main body 2 of the device includes a conveying section 20, a recording section 30, and a discharge section 40. These are housed within the frame 10.

[0047] A conveying path 17 for conveying paper S is provided inside the frame 10. Paper S is conveyed along the conveying direction D1 on the conveying path 17.

[0048] The conveying unit 20 is located downstream of the media supply port 12. The conveying unit 20 conveys the paper S placed on the feed tray 60 to the recording unit 30 side. The conveying unit 20 includes a pair of conveying rollers 21 and 22 that rotate with the drive of a conveying motor (not shown). The conveying rollers 21 and 22 are arranged along the conveying path 17 and convey the paper S in the conveying direction D1.

[0049] The recording unit 30 includes a recording head 31 that sprays liquid ink onto the paper S, and a carriage 32 that mounts the recording head 31 and is configured to move in a width direction (along the X-axis) intersecting the transport direction D1 of the paper S. A pressure plate 34 is disposed below the recording head 31 across the transport path 17.

[0050] Additionally, the ink cartridge 33 (which serves as a liquid container for supplying ink to the recording head 31) Figure 1A The ink cartridge 33 is a container that holds ink. The ink cartridge 33 is connected to the recording head 31 via a flexible tube. The ink in the ink cartridge 33 is supplied to the recording head 31 through the tube.

[0051] The ink cartridge 33 is configured to connect to an ink bottle containing ink for refilling the cartridge 33. The top of the ink cartridge 33 is covered by a plate-shaped top cover 11. The top cover 11 is located at its -Y direction end and is rotatable about an axis extending along the X-axis. The ink cartridge 33 can be accessed by opening the top cover 11. Furthermore, ink can be refilled into the ink cartridge 33 by connecting an ink bottle to it.

[0052] Furthermore, the ink cartridge 33 is made of a translucent material. Additionally, the ink level in the cartridge 33 can be visually confirmed from the outside of the recording device 1. Specifically, as... Figure 1A As shown, a window 15 is formed on a portion of the frame 10. The window 15 is a hole that passes through the frame 10. In addition, an ink cartridge 33 is disposed at a position corresponding to the window 15. As a result, the ink level in the ink cartridge 33 can be easily checked.

[0053] The recording unit 30 ejects ink onto the paper S supported by the pressure plate 34 based on recording data (printing data). This causes ink to adhere to the paper S, forming an image based on the recording data. The recording data refers to data generated based on image data such as text or image data recorded on the paper S, used to cause the recording device 1 to perform recording. It should be noted that the recorded paper S is conveyed by the transport unit 20 and transported to the discharge unit 40 located downstream of the recording head 31 in the transport direction D1.

[0054] The discharge section 40 includes a paper discharge roller pair 41 disposed downstream of the recording section 30 in the transport direction D1. The discharge section 40 discharges the recorded paper S along the discharge direction D2 via the paper discharge roller pair 41. The discharged paper S is placed on the paper discharge stacker 50. It should be noted that the paper discharge stacker 50 is configured to be housed in the stacker storage section 58 disposed below the recording section 30.

[0055] The following describes the method for installing the feed tray 60 relative to the device body 2. Specifically, the sequence of removing the stored feed tray 60 from the device body 2 (tray storage section 70) and installing it onto the mounting section 80 will be described.

[0056] It should be noted that the details of the storage mechanism of the feed pallet 60 in the pallet storage section 70 and the installation mechanism of the feed pallet 60 in the installation section 80 will be described later.

[0057] like Figure 3AAs shown, the feed tray 60 is housed in a tray storage section 70 located at the lower part of the paper stacker 50. The tray storage section 70 is a space area located at the lower part of the paper stacker 50. The feed tray 60 is stored in the tray storage section 70 with its mounting surface 61 facing upwards. By effectively utilizing the lower space of the paper stacker 50, the height of the device body 2 can be reduced.

[0058] When the feed tray 60 is stored in the tray storage section 70, it is positioned higher than the -Z direction end face of the main body 2 (frame 10). That is, in the stored state, the feed tray 60 does not protrude from the lowest surface of the frame 10, thus ensuring the stability of the main body 2 when the feed tray 60 is stored. Furthermore, it prevents damage to the feed tray 60 when transporting the recording device 1 and placing it on a table or similar surface.

[0059] When removing the feed tray 60 from the tray storage section 70, that is, when detaching the feed tray 60 from the main body 2 of the device, first, place your fingers on the +Y end of the stored feed tray 60 and pull it out in the +Y direction. Thus, as... Figure 3B As shown, it is removed from the main body 2 (tray storage section 70) of the device.

[0060] Next, as Figure 3C As shown, the opening / closing cover 13 is moved to the open position, and the feed tray 60 is inserted relative to the mounting part 80 in a substantially vertical direction. Then, as... Figure 3D As shown, the feed tray 60 inserted into the mounting section 80 is tilted. Thus, the feed tray 60 is mounted on the mounting section 80 with its mounting surface 61 facing upwards, and can hold the paper S.

[0061] Furthermore, the feed tray 60 of this embodiment is configured to be extendable. Specifically, the feed tray 60 consists of a first tray 60a and a second tray 60b. The first tray 60a is rectangular when viewed from above. The dimension of the first tray 60a along the X-axis is longer than the dimension of the second tray 60b along the X-axis. The first tray 60a is mounted on the mounting portion 80. When viewed from above, a portion of the second tray 60b is housed within the first tray 60a, while the remaining portion protrudes from the first tray 60a. The second tray 60b can be extended or retracted relative to the first tray 60a. Then, as... Figure 3E As shown, by pulling the second tray 60b upward relative to the first tray 60a, the feed tray 60 extends in the height direction. As a result, the mounting area of ​​the paper S in the feed tray 60 is increased, enabling it to support relatively large paper sizes (e.g., A3 size) of paper S in a stable state.

[0062] On the other hand, when the feed tray 60 is stored in the tray storage section 70, such as Figure 3CAs shown, after aligning the feed tray 60 to a substantially vertical position, the feed tray is removed from the mounting section 80. Then, the second tray 60b is pressed into place relative to the first tray 60a. This shortens the feed tray 60. Next, the feed tray 60 is inserted into the tray storage section 70. Thus, the feed tray 60 is stored in the tray storage section 70.

[0063] Since the feed tray 60 is configured to be stored within the main body 2 of the device, it does not need to be stored separately from the main body 2, thus preventing the loss of the feed tray 60. In addition, by effectively utilizing the space below the paper stacker 50, the size of the recording device 1 can be reduced.

[0064] It should be noted that the feeder tray 60 can also be configured to have a third tray in addition to the first tray 60a and the second tray 60b, which can further extend the feeder tray 60.

[0065] Alternatively, the entire second tray 60b can be contained within the first tray 60a.

[0066] The following describes the storage mechanism of the feed tray 60 in the tray storage section 70.

[0067] The tray storage section 70 includes a guide 71 that serves as a guide unit for guiding the feed tray 60 to the storage position. Specifically, as... Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, guide members 71 are respectively disposed at the +X direction end and the -X direction end of the tray storage section 70. Each guide member 71 is a guide member extending in the direction along the Y-axis. The guide member 71 at the +X direction end of the tray storage section 70 is a track recessed in the +X direction, and the guide member 71 at the -X direction end of the tray storage section 70 is a track recessed in the -X direction.

[0068] Then, the +X and -X direction ends of the first tray 60a of the feed tray 60 are inserted into the guides 71, causing the feed tray 60 to move in the -Y direction. The feed tray 60 moves with both ends supported by the guides 71 along the X-axis. As a result, the feed tray 60 can be easily and stably stored in the tray storage section 70.

[0069] The tray storage section 70 also has an engaging section 73 that engages with the feed tray 60 as a guide unit. Specifically, as... Figure 4B As shown, the engaging portion 73 is a protrusion that extends from the -Z direction of each guide 71 toward the +Z direction. In this embodiment, two engaging portions 73 are arranged at predetermined intervals along the Y-axis.

[0070] On the other hand, the feed tray 60 has a engaged portion 74 that engages with the engaging portion 73. Specifically, as... Figure 4C As shown, the engaging portion 74 is a recessed portion extending from the -Z direction of the feed tray 60 towards the +Z direction. In this embodiment, the engaging portions 74 correspond in position to the engaging portions 73, and two are arranged at predetermined intervals along the Y-axis.

[0071] When the feed tray 60 is in the designated storage position of the tray storage section 70, the engaging part 73 and the engaged part 74 are configured such that the engaging part 73 and the engaged part 74 are engaged. It should be noted that the designated storage position refers to the position where the +Y direction end face of the feed tray 60 in the stored state is approximately at the same position as the +Y direction end face of the frame 10. By setting this position, it is easy to place fingers on the feed tray 60. Furthermore, since the feed tray 60 does not protrude relative to the frame 10, the design is improved.

[0072] Furthermore, when the feed tray 60 is moved in the -Y direction in accordance with the guide 71, the flat surface of the engaging portion 74 on the -Y direction side of the feed tray 60 applies load over the engaging portion 73. Then, by moving the feed tray 60 further in the -Y direction, the engaging portion 73 engages with the engaging portion 74, and the load is reduced. That is, the user feels the presence or absence of load while moving the feed tray 60. In detail, the user can feel the click. Thus, it is easy to identify that the feed tray 60 is stored in the designated position. Furthermore, in the stored state, the feed tray 60 is engaged by the engaging portion 73, so the feed tray 60 will not accidentally detach from the tray storage portion 70, and the stored state can be reliably maintained.

[0073] In addition, such as Figure 4D As shown, a limiting block 72 is provided at the -Y direction end of the first tray 60a of the feed tray 60 in the stored state to restrict the movement of the feed tray 60 in the -Y direction. The +Y direction end face of the limiting block 72 has a limiting surface 72a that can abut against the first tray 60a. When the feed tray 60 is moved in the -Y direction along the guide 71, the -Y direction end of the feed tray 60 abuts against the limiting surface 72a, restricting further movement of the feed tray 60 in the -Y direction. For example, if the feed tray 60 is forcefully inserted into the tray storage part 70, there is a risk that the feed tray 60 may move further in the -Y direction beyond the engagement position of the engaging part 73 and the engaged part 74. However, even in this case, since the feed tray 60 abuts against the limiting block 72, the feed tray 60 can be reliably stored in the tray storage part 70.

[0074] The following describes the mounting mechanism of the feed tray 60 in the mounting section 80.

[0075] like Figure 5AAs shown, a first shaft 63 and a second shaft 64 are provided on each side 62 that intersects the mounting surface of the feed tray 60.

[0076] The first shaft 63 and the second shaft 64 extend along the X-axis and protrude outwards from each side 62. The diameter of the first shaft 63 is larger than that of the second shaft 64. Furthermore, the center of the second shaft 64 is positioned further towards the +Y direction than the center of the first shaft 63. Additionally, in the mounting direction (-Z direction) of the feed tray 60 relative to the mounting portion 80, the second shaft 64 is positioned further towards the front end of the feed tray 60 than the first shaft 63. Therefore, when the feed tray 60 is mounted to the mounting portion 80, the second shaft 64 is inserted first relative to the mounting portion 80.

[0077] Additionally, the mounting section 80 includes a receiving section 81 for receiving a first shaft 63 and a second shaft 64 of a feed tray 60. The receiving section 81 includes an insertion port 82 into which the first shaft 63 and the second shaft 64 can be inserted. The insertion port 82 is located at the +Z direction end of the receiving section 81. A support section 83 for supporting the first shaft 63 is arranged from the insertion port 82 of the receiving section 81 in the -Z direction. The support section 83 is composed of a first wall portion 83a and a second wall portion 83b. The first wall portion 83a is located in the -Y direction of the receiving section 81, and the second wall portion 83b is located in the +Y direction of the receiving section 81. The first wall portion 83a and the second wall portion 83b are arranged opposite each other in the direction along the Y-axis. A curved portion 86 is formed on the -Z direction side of the first wall portion 83a, where the wall surface of the first wall portion 83a bends towards the +Y direction. The gap between the first wall portion 83a and the second wall portion 83b in the direction along the Y-axis is narrowed by the curved portion 86. The gap is smaller (narrower) than the diameter of the first shaft 63 and larger (wider) than the diameter of the second shaft 64.

[0078] Therefore, as Figure 5B As shown, when the first shaft 63 and the second shaft 64 are inserted into the insertion port 82 of the receiving part 81, the second shaft 64 passes through the gap between the first wall portion 83a and the second wall portion 83b, but the first shaft 63 is restricted from moving in the -Z direction by the first wall portion 83a and the second wall portion 83b. That is, the first shaft 63 is supported by the first wall portion 83a and the second wall portion 83b.

[0079] Furthermore, a movable region 87 protruding in the +Y direction is formed below the second wall portion 83b of the receiving portion 81. The movable region 87 is divided by a limiting wall portion 84. The second wall portion 83b and the limiting wall portion 84 are connected via a bend 88.

[0080] Then, as Figure 5C As shown, the +Z end of the feed tray 60 is moved in the -Y direction. This causes the feed tray 60 to rotate about the first axis 63 (in... Figure 5C(It rotates clockwise). As the feed tray 60 rotates, the second axis 64 also moves clockwise within the moving area 87, centered on the first axis 63.

[0081] Here, a limiting wall 84 is disposed in front of the moving direction of the second shaft 64. The movement of the moving second shaft 64 is limited by abutting against the limiting wall 84. That is, when the second shaft 64 abuts against the limiting wall 84, the rotation of the feed tray 60 relative to the mounting portion 80 is limited, and the feed tray 60 is supported by the mounting portion 80 in an inclined state. In addition, even if the feed tray 60 is stretched in the inclined direction while the feed tray 60 is in the inclined state, the feed tray 60 will not detach from the mounting portion 80 because the second shaft 64 abuts against the bending portion 88. As a result, the paper S can be placed on the feed tray 60 in a stable state. Then, the second tray 60b is pulled out relative to the first tray 60a, causing the feed tray 60 to extend.

[0082] The following describes the configuration of the paper stacker 50.

[0083] like Figure 6A As shown, the paper stacker 50 is configured to be retractable. When not performing recording processing, the paper stacker 50 is stored in the stacker storage section 58 inside the device body 2 (frame 10). On the other hand, when performing recording processing, the stored paper stacker 50 is pulled out from inside the device body 2 (frame 10) in the +Y direction for use.

[0084] The paper stacker 50 comprises a first stacker 50a, a second stacker 50b, and a third stacker 50c. The first stacker 50a is mounted on the main body 2 of the device. The dimension of the first stacker 50a along the X-axis is longer than that of the second stacker 50b along the X-axis. The dimension of the second stacker 50b along the X-axis is longer than that of the third stacker 50c along the X-axis. When viewed from above, the third stacker 50c can be housed within the second stacker 50b, and the second stacker 50b can be housed within the first stacker 50a.

[0085] The first stacker 50a is pulled out from the device body 2 along the guide of the stacker storage section 58, thus protruding from the frame 10. It should be noted that the first stacker 50a is confined to a predetermined position. Furthermore, by pulling out the second stacker 50b relative to the first stacker 50a, the paper discharge stacker 50 extends in the +Y direction (discharge direction D2). Moreover, by pulling out the third stacker 50c relative to the second stacker 50b, the paper discharge stacker 50 extends further in the +Y direction (discharge direction D2). As a result, the paper placement area of ​​the paper S in the paper discharge stacker 50 is increased, enabling stable support of relatively large-sized (e.g., A3 size) paper S.

[0086] Furthermore, by pressing the second stacker 50b and the third stacker 50c into the -Y direction relative to the first stacker 50a, the paper discharge stacker 50 is shortened. The paper discharge stacker 50 is stored in the device body 2 in a retracted state. As a result, the recording device 1 can be made more compact.

[0087] Furthermore, in the recording device 1 of this embodiment, when the housed paper stacker 50 is pulled out from inside the device body 2 (frame 10), the feed tray 60 can also be pulled out from inside the device body 2 (frame 10) in conjunction with the paper stacker 50. Specifically, as Figure 6B As shown, a contact portion 55 protruding in the -Z direction is provided at the -Y direction end of the first stacker 50a in the paper stacker 50. With the paper stacker 50 and the feed tray 60 housed within the device body 2, the contact portion 55 is disposed at the -Y direction end of the second tray 60b of the feed tray 60. That is, the contact portion 55 is configured to abut against the end of the feed tray 60 in the direction in which the feed tray 60 is inserted (in the -Y direction).

[0088] Then, as Figure 6C As shown, when the stored paper stacker 50 is pulled out from the main body 2 in the +Y direction, the abutment portion 55 moves in the +Y direction while abutting against the second tray 60b. Thus, the feed tray 60 and the paper stacker 50 are pulled out in the +Y direction in conjunction. This improves user convenience.

[0089] It should be noted that when the feed tray 60 is housed in the device body 2, the paper stacker 50 can also be pulled from the outside into the device body 2 in conjunction with the action of housing the feed tray 60. Specifically, when the paper stacker 50 is pulled out of the device body 2, and the feed tray 60 is pulled into the tray housing 70, the -Y direction end of the second tray 60b of the feed tray 60 abuts against the abutment portion 55. The paper stacker 50 can also be pulled from the outside into the device body 2 in conjunction with the action of housing the feed tray 60 in the tray housing 70.

[0090] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, with the feed tray 60 and the paper stacker 50 housed inside the device body 2, only the feed tray 60 can be pulled out from the device body 2.

[0091] The following describes the storage state of the feed tray 60.

[0092] like Figure 3A As shown, when the feed tray 60 is stored in the tray storage section 70, the mounting surface 61 of the feed tray 60 is located inside the main body 2 of the device. That is, in the stored state, when viewed from above, the mounting surface 61 is not exposed to the outside of the frame 10. Therefore, dust and the like can be prevented from adhering to the mounting surface 61. In addition, when replenishing ink to the ink cartridge 33, ink and the like can be prevented from adhering to the mounting surface 61. Thus, when the feed tray 60 is installed in the mounting section 80, the risk of damaging the appearance of the recording device 1 can be reduced.

[0093] like Figure 7A As shown, the recording apparatus 1 of this embodiment includes a recording component tray 90. The recording component tray 90 is a tray for mounting and printing recording components such as CDs or DVDs on its upper part. The recording component tray 90 is a plate-shaped component. The recording component tray 90 can be housed in the lower part of the paper stacker 50. A guide extending in the direction along the Y-axis is provided in the lower part of the paper stacker 50, allowing the recording component tray 90 to be inserted and pulled out in accordance with this guide.

[0094] When recording processing is performed on the recording component, the stored recording component tray 90 is pulled out in the +Y direction and removed from the main body 2. Next, the recording component is placed on the recording component tray 90. Then, the recording component tray 90 with the recording component is inserted into the recording insertion port 91 and moved to the designated position.

[0095] A recording insertion port 91 is provided on the upper part of the paper stacker 50. A guide 56 extending in the direction along the Y-axis is provided on the upper part of the paper stacker 50, which allows the recording component tray 90 to be inserted and pulled out in accordance with the guide 56.

[0096] The recording component tray 90, moved to the designated position, is positioned opposite the recording head 31. Next, the recording head 31 is driven to record data onto the recording component. When recording is complete, the recording component tray 90 is pulled out from the recording insertion port 91 and removed from the device body 2. Then, the recorded (printed) component is removed from the recording component tray 90. Next, with the recording component tray 90 stored, a guide similar to the one at the bottom of the paper stacker 50 is inserted into the recording component tray 90. Since the recording component tray 90 can be stored in the bottom of the paper stacker 50, there is no risk of loss. Furthermore, since the space at the bottom of the paper stacker 50 can be effectively utilized, the size of the recording device 1 can be reduced.

[0097] Furthermore, with the feed tray 60 and the recording component tray 90 housed in the main body 2 of the device, they are arranged in the following order along the height direction: feed tray 60, recording component tray 90, and paper stacker 50. Since the feed tray 60 is positioned at the bottom, it is possible to prevent recording materials such as ink from adhering to the feed tray 60.

[0098] like Figure 7B As shown, a protrusion protruding in the height direction is formed on the upper part of the paper stacker 50. In this embodiment, the protrusion is part of the guide 56 provided on the paper stacker 50.

[0099] An opening 10a, which divides the stacker storage section 58, is formed in the frame 10. Furthermore, when the paper stacker 50 is stored in the stacker storage section 58, the +Z direction end of the opening 10a faces the protrusion of the guide 56. This narrows the gap between the +Z direction end of the opening 10a and the protrusion of the guide 56, thus reducing the risk of recording material located in the recording section 30 or recording area scattering to the lower part of the device body 2. In other words, it can suppress the adhesion of recording material to the feed tray 60 stored at the lower part of the paper stacker 50.

[0100] In addition, such as Figure 7AAs shown, in this embodiment, an ink cartridge 33 is disposed in the -X direction of the feed tray 60 housed in the tray storage section 70. When the feed tray 60 is housed within the device body 2, at least a portion of the feed tray 60 overlaps with at least a portion of the ink cartridge 33 in the height direction. Here, "at least a portion of the feed tray 60 overlaps with at least a portion of the ink cartridge 33 in the height direction in the housed state" means that, when viewed from the +X direction, at least a portion of the feed tray 60 overlaps with at least a portion of the ink cartridge 33.

[0101] Since the feed tray 60 is housed in a space that overlaps with the ink cartridge 33 in the height direction, the recording device 1 can be miniaturized in the height direction.

[0102] like Figure 7C As shown, in this embodiment, a waste liquid recovery unit 36 ​​is provided in the -X direction of the feed tray 60 housed in the tray storage unit 70.

[0103] The waste liquid recovery unit 36 ​​recovers the ink ejected from the recording head 31 as waste liquid during maintenance such as so-called borderless printing or washing. The waste liquid recovery unit 36 ​​has, for example, a component that absorbs the waste liquid using non-woven fabric or sponge material.

[0104] Furthermore, with the feed tray 60 housed within the main body 2 of the device, at least a portion of the feed tray 60 overlaps with at least a portion of the waste liquid recovery unit 36 ​​in the height direction. Here, "at least a portion of the feed tray 60 overlaps with at least a portion of the waste liquid recovery unit 36 ​​in the height direction when housed" means that, when viewed from the +X direction, at least a portion of the feed tray 60 overlaps with at least a portion of the waste liquid recovery unit 36.

[0105] Since the feed tray 60 is housed in a space that overlaps with the waste liquid recovery unit 36 ​​in the height direction, the recording device 1 can be miniaturized in the height direction.

[0106] like Figure 7D As shown, in this embodiment, a power supply unit 9 is arranged in the -Y direction of the feed tray 60 housed in the tray storage section 70. The power supply unit 9 supplies power for driving the recording section 30 and the like.

[0107] Furthermore, when the feed tray 60 is housed within the main body 2 of the device, at least a portion of the feed tray 60 overlaps with at least a portion of the power supply unit 9 in the height direction. Here, "at least a portion of the feed tray 60 overlaps with at least a portion of the power supply unit 9 in the height direction when housed" means that, when viewed from the -X direction, at least a portion of the feed tray 60 overlaps with at least a portion of the power supply unit 9.

[0108] Since the feed tray 60 is housed in a space that overlaps with the power supply unit 9 in the height direction, the recording device 1 can be miniaturized in the height direction.

[0109] It should be noted that it may not be the power supply unit 9, but rather an information transmission unit such as USB (Universal Serial Bus).

[0110] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0111] The second embodiment will now be described. In the first embodiment, the configuration of the recording device 1 capable of recording A4 and A3 size paper S was described, but it is not limited thereto.

[0112] In this embodiment, a smaller recording device 1A, specifically designed for recording A4-sized paper, will be described. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are used for configurations identical to those in the first embodiment, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0113] like Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the recording device 1A includes a device body 2. The device body 2 has a frame 10 forming the outer casing of the device body 2. An operation section 4 for operating the recording device 1A is provided on the front side of the frame 10 in the +Y direction.

[0114] A paper stacker 50 for carrying paper S discharged from the device body 2 is disposed on the front side of the frame 10 in the +Y direction. The paper stacker 50 is configured to be retractable. When not performing recording processing, the paper stacker 50 is stored in the stacker storage section 58 inside the device body 2 (frame 10). On the other hand, when performing recording processing, the stored paper stacker 50 is pulled out from the device body 2 (frame 10) in the +Y direction for use.

[0115] In the main body 2 of the device, a feed tray 100 is housed at the bottom of the paper stacker 50. The feed tray 100 is configured to be detachable from the main body 2 of the device.

[0116] like Figure 8C As shown, in the recording apparatus 1A of this embodiment, it is configured to allow the setting and feeding of paper S from the back side of the frame 10 in the -Y direction. Specifically, a media supply port 12 is provided at the upper part of the frame 10 to supply paper S into the device body 2. The media supply port 12 is a rectangular opening extending in the X-axis direction. Mounting portions 80 are provided at both ends of the media supply port 12 in the X-axis direction. A feed tray 100 is disposed on the mounting portion 80.

[0117] An opening / closing cover 13 is provided above the medium supply port 12, capable of opening and closing the medium supply port 12. The opening / closing cover 13 is located at its +Y direction end and can rotate about an axis extending along the X-axis. For example... Figure 8D As shown, by setting the opening and closing cover 13 to the open state, the medium supply port 12 and the mounting part 80 are exposed, and the feed tray 100 can be mounted on the mounting part 80.

[0118] The feed tray 100 is a plate-shaped component. The feed tray 100 has a mounting surface 101 capable of holding paper S. The mounting surface 101 is generally flat. The paper S placed on the feed tray 100 is fed into the device body 2 via the media supply port 12. That is, when recording processing is performed on the paper S, the feed tray 100 stored in the device body 2 is removed and installed in the mounting section 80, enabling the feeding of paper S. On the other hand, when not performing recording processing, the feed tray 100 is removed from the mounting section 80 and stored in the lower part of the paper stacker 50.

[0119] It should be noted that the installation method of the feed tray 100 relative to the device body 2, the storage mechanism of the feed tray 100 in the tray storage section 70, and the installation mechanism of the feed tray 100 in the installation section 80 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0120] According to this embodiment, since the feed tray 100 is configured to be housed within the device body 2, it does not need to be stored separately from the device body 2, thus preventing the loss of the feed tray 100. Furthermore, by effectively utilizing the space below the paper stacker 50, the size of the recording device 1A can be reduced.

Claims

1. A recording device, characterized in that, have: The main body of the device includes a recording section for recording media; A feed tray is mounted on the main body of the device during recording processing at the recording unit, and holds the medium. The feed tray can be removed from the main body of the device. A paper stacker that holds the medium recorded by the recording unit; and A tray storage section is located below the paper stacker in the height direction of the main body of the device, and stores the feed tray when the recording section is not performing recording processing. The paper stacker has an abutment portion that can abut against the end of the feed tray in the direction in which the feed tray is inserted. When the paper stacker is pulled out from the main body of the device, the feed tray is pulled out from the tray storage part in conjunction with the paper stacker by abutting the end portion.

2. The recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the feed tray is stored in the tray storage part, it is positioned higher than the lower surface of the device body in the height direction.

3. The recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the feed tray is stored in the tray storage part, the surface of the feed tray on which the medium is placed is located inside the main body of the device.

4. The recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feed tray is retractable. The feed tray is stored in the tray storage section in a retracted state.

5. The recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The recording device includes a stacker storage section for housing the paper stacker. The paper stacker has a protrusion that extends in the height direction. When the paper stacker is housed in the stacker housing, the stacker housing is opposite to the protrusion.

6. The recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The tray storage section includes a guide unit that guides the feed tray to the storage position. The guiding unit has an engaging portion that engages with the feed tray. The feed tray has a engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion.

7. The recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The recording device includes a recording component tray for mounting and printing a recording component on its upper part. The recording component tray can be stored in the lower part of the paper stacker.

8. The recording device according to claim 7, characterized in that, With the feed tray and the recording component tray stored in the same position. Along the height direction, the feed tray, the recording component tray, and the paper stacker are arranged in that order.

9. The recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The recording device includes a liquid receiving section capable of receiving liquid supplied to the recording unit. With the feed tray housed in the tray housing, at least a portion of the feed tray overlaps with at least a portion of the liquid receiving portion in the height direction.

10. The recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The recording device includes a waste liquid recovery unit that recovers liquid ejected from the recording unit. With the feed tray housed in the tray housing section, at least a portion of the feed tray overlaps with at least a portion of the waste liquid recovery section in the height direction.

11. The recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The recording device includes a power supply unit that supplies power for driving the recording unit. With the feed tray housed in the tray housing section, at least a portion of the feed tray overlaps with at least a portion of the power supply section in the height direction.

12. The recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The feed tray can be mounted on the rear side of the main body of the device in the depth direction. The paper stacker is located on the front side of the main body of the device in the depth direction of the device.