Inkjet head cleaning device and inkjet head cleaning method using the same.

Abstract

This invention provides an inkjet head cleaning apparatus and an inkjet head cleaning method using the same. One embodiment of the inkjet head cleaning apparatus may include: one or more pressure applying portions; a conveying portion supporting the pressure applying portions and capable of moving the pressure applying portions; and a fixing member capable of fixing the pressure applying portions to or releasing the pressure applying portions from the conveying portion. The pressure applying portion includes a first portion and a second portion connected to the first portion and located between the first portion and the conveying portion, wherein a first side portion of the second portion can contact and be fixed to the conveying portion via the fixing member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an inkjet head cleaning apparatus and an inkjet head cleaning method using the same. Background Technology

[0002] Various electronic devices, including display devices, include multiple thin-film patterns formed on a substrate. These thin-film patterns can be formed using various methods, such as inkjet printing.

[0003] Inkjet apparatuses used in inkjet processes include inkjet heads with nozzles that eject ink. In inkjet apparatuses, it is important to eject a constant amount of ink without clogging of the nozzles, while ink residue on the nozzle surface can cause defects in the film patterns formed during the inkjet process.

[0004] To keep the inkjet nozzle surface clean, it is necessary to clean the nozzle surface.

[0005] One method for cleaning the nozzle face of an inkjet head is to clean it by having a wiping element contact the inkjet head surface where the nozzle face is located. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This specification describes an inkjet head cleaning device that can effectively and cleanly clean the nozzle face of the inkjet head to ensure proper ink ejection.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an inkjet head cleaning apparatus, which may include: one or more pressure applying portions; a transfer portion that supports the pressure applying portions and is capable of moving the pressure applying portions; and a fixing member capable of fixing the pressure applying portions to the transfer portion or releasing the pressure applying portions from the transfer portion, wherein the pressure applying portion includes a first portion and a second portion connected to the first portion and located between the first portion and the transfer portion, and a first side portion of the second portion is capable of contacting and being fixed to the transfer portion by the fixing member.

[0008] Alternatively, the inkjet head cleaning device may further include: an elastic component or a bearing component, located between the pressure application part and the transfer part.

[0009] Alternatively, the elastic component or the bearing component may be located between the second part and the transfer part.

[0010] It is possible that the position of the pressure application part relative to the transfer part can be changed when the fixing component is released, and the position of the pressure application part relative to the transfer part is fixed when the fixing component is fixed.

[0011] Alternatively, the first side portion may include a first hole, and the fixing component may include a through portion that can pass through the first hole and a fixing portion that connects to the through portion.

[0012] It is possible that the cross-sectional size of the first hole is larger than the cross-sectional size of the through portion.

[0013] Alternatively, the transfer unit may include a slot or a second hole corresponding to the first hole.

[0014] Alternatively, with the fixing component fixed, the fixing part presses against the first side, thereby pressurizing the side of the transfer part.

[0015] Alternatively, the inkjet head cleaning device may further include a control unit capable of controlling the position of the fixed component.

[0016] Alternatively, the one or more pressure application units may be located within the internal space of the transfer unit.

[0017] Alternatively, the side of the transfer part may include one or more second holes, and the fixing member may include a passage portion that can pass through the second holes and a fixing portion that is connected to the passage portion.

[0018] Alternatively, the pressure application part may include a third hole or groove corresponding to the second hole.

[0019] Alternatively, with the fixing component fixed, the fixing part presses on the side of the transfer part, thereby pressurizing the first side of the pressure application part.

[0020] Alternatively, the second part of the pressure application part may include a second side portion connected to the first side portion, the second side portion including a recessed portion, and the transfer part entering the recessed portion of the second side portion.

[0021] Alternatively, the inkjet head cleaning device may further include: a cleaning component located on the pressure application section; and a plurality of rollers capable of winding around the cleaning component.

[0022] One embodiment of the inkjet head cleaning apparatus includes: one or more pressure applying parts; a conveying part that supports the pressure applying parts and is capable of moving the pressure applying parts; a fixing member that can be fixed after adjusting the position of the pressure applying parts relative to the conveying part; and an elastic member or bearing member located between the pressure applying parts and the conveying part.

[0023] Alternatively, the pressure applying portion may include a first side portion and a second side portion facing different directions from each other, the first side portion including a first hole, and the fixing component including a through portion that can pass through the first hole and a fixing portion connected to the through portion.

[0024] Alternatively, with the fixing component fixed, the fixing part may apply pressure to the first side and the side of the transfer part, respectively.

[0025] One embodiment of the inkjet head cleaning method includes: a step of setting up an inkjet head cleaning device below an inkjet apparatus including one or more inkjet heads, with the position between a transfer section and a pressure application section not fixed while the fixing member is released; a step of reducing the distance between the inkjet head cleaning device and the inkjet head while the fixing member is released, thereby bringing the pressure application section of the inkjet head cleaning device into contact with the inkjet head; a step of fixing the fixing member to the transfer section to fix the pressure application section to the transfer section while the pressure application section and the inkjet head are in contact; and a step of separating the inkjet head cleaning device from the inkjet head while the fixing member is fixed.

[0026] Alternatively, the inkjet head cleaning method may further include the step of cleaning the inkjet head by placing the inkjet head cleaning device tightly against the inkjet head while the fixing component is fixed.

[0027] (Invention Effects)

[0028] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the nozzle surface of the inkjet head can be effectively and cleanly cleaned, thereby enabling the inkjet head to eject ink normally. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 The overall configuration of an inkjet head cleaning device according to one embodiment is shown;

[0030] Figure 2 An inkjet head of an inkjet device according to an embodiment is shown;

[0031] Figure 3 It is Figure 2 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the inkjet head taken along line A1-A2;

[0032] Figure 4 It is Figure 2 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the inkjet head taken along line B1-B2;

[0033] Figure 5 The transfer section of an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment is shown;

[0034] Figure 6 The transfer section and pressure application section of an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment are shown;

[0035] Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The steps of aligning and fixing the pressure application part of the inkjet head cleaning device according to an embodiment to the inkjet head are shown in sequence.

[0036] Figure 11 The illustration shows a state in which the conveying section and pressure application section of an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment are not fixed;

[0037] Figure 12 The image shows a state in which the conveying part and the pressure application part of an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment are fixed;

[0038] Figure 13 This diagram illustrates the conveying section and pressure application section of an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment; and

[0039] Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 Examples of elastic components of an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment are shown respectively.

[0040] Symbol explanation:

[0041] 21, 21A, 22, 201A: Holes; 100, 100A: Pressure application parts; 110: Upper part; 111: Nozzle face corresponding part; 120: Lower part; 121, 121A: First side part; 123, 123A: Second side part; 200, 200A: Transfer part; 201, 301, 303: Grooves; 210: Fixing component; 211: Passing part; 212: Fixing part; 220: Fixing component; 300, 300A, 300B, 300 C, 300D, 300E, 300F, 310: Elastic components; 302: Protrusions; 304, 306: Bearings; 305, 307: Supports; 308: Folding section; 410: Cleaning component supply section; 420: Cleaning component recycling section; 430, 440: Guide rollers; 450: Cleaning components; 510: Carrier; 520: Inkjet head; 521: Nozzle face; 522: Head face; 1000, 1000A, 1000B: Inkjet head cleaning device. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. The present invention can be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0043] To clearly illustrate the invention, irrelevant parts have been omitted, and the same or similar constituent elements have been given the same reference numerals throughout the specification.

[0044] The sizes and thicknesses of the components shown in the illustrations are arbitrary for ease of explanation, and therefore the invention is not necessarily limited to the illustrated cases. In the drawings, the thicknesses are exaggerated to clearly show each layer and region. Furthermore, in the drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are exaggerated for ease of explanation.

[0045] When a layer, membrane, region, plate, or other component is located on or above other components, this includes not only the case where it is directly located on other components, but also the case where other components are interposed between them. Conversely, when a component is directly located on other components, it means that no other components are interposed between them. Furthermore, being located on or above a reference component means being located above or below the reference component, and does not necessarily mean being above or above in the direction of gravity.

[0046] When a certain component is included in a part of the specification, unless otherwise stated, it does not exclude the inclusion of other components, but rather means that other components may also be included.

[0047] Throughout the instruction manual, "on a plane" refers to the view of the object from above, while "on a cross section" refers to the view of a vertically cut section of the object from the side.

[0048] Throughout the specification, “connection” does not only mean that two or more constituent elements are directly connected, but also that two or more constituent elements are indirectly connected through other constituent elements. In addition to physical connection, it also includes electrical connection, or that although they are referred to by different names according to their location or function, they are formed as one unit.

[0049] First, refer to Figures 1 to 6 This describes an inkjet head cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0050] Figure 1 The overall structure of an inkjet head cleaning device according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 2 An inkjet head of an inkjet device according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 3 It is Figure 2 The image shown is a cross-sectional view of the inkjet head taken along line A1-A2. Figure 4 It is Figure 2 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the inkjet head taken along line B1-B2. Figure 5 The diagram shows a transfer section of an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment, and... Figure 6 The diagram shows the transfer section and pressure application section of an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0051] One embodiment of the inkjet head cleaning device 1000 is used to clean the head surface 522 of each of the nozzle surfaces 521 of one or more inkjet heads 520 included in the inkjet device 2000.

[0052] One embodiment of the inkjet apparatus 2000 may include one or more inkjet heads 520 and a carrier 510. In this embodiment, the inkjet apparatus 2000 is described primarily as including a plurality of inkjet heads 520.

[0053] Multiple inkjet heads 520 can be arranged in the x-direction.

[0054] Reference Figures 2 to 4 The inkjet head 520 can be assembled or fixed to the carrier 510. (See reference...) Figure 2 The carrier 510 may have a shape that extends in the xy plane.

[0055] Each inkjet head 520 has a head surface 522, and a nozzle surface 521 for ejecting ink is located on the head surface 522. The head surfaces 522 of the multiple inkjet heads 520 may face the same direction (e.g., opposite directions in the z-direction).

[0056] like Figure 1 As shown by the dotted line, the nozzle surface 521 may have a shape that is recessed towards the inside of the inkjet head 520 with reference to the head surface 522.

[0057] The inkjet head cleaning device 1000 includes one or more pressure application sections 100, transfer sections 200, fixing members 210, and elastic members 300. In this embodiment, an example including multiple pressure application sections 100 will be mainly described.

[0058] Multiple pressure application parts 100 can be arranged in the x-direction.

[0059] The position of each pressure application part 100 can correspond one-to-one with the position of the inkjet head 520 of the inkjet device 2000. Therefore, the number of pressure application parts 100 included in the inkjet head cleaning device 1000 can be the same as the number of inkjet heads 520 of the inkjet device 2000 that are to be cleaned.

[0060] Each pressure application part 100 may include an upper part 110 positioned toward the inkjet head 520 and a lower part 120 located below the upper part 110 (in the opposite direction of the z-direction).

[0061] The upper part 110 may include an upper surface having a shape that can conform to the head surface 522 of the inkjet head 520 and, in particular, a nozzle surface corresponding part 111 that can conform to the nozzle surface 521.

[0062] The upper part 110 may include at least one of the following materials: rubber, silicone rubber, foamed silicone, polymer, metal, glass, and quartz. The upper part 110 may be elastic or rigid.

[0063] The lower part 120 is connected to the lower side of the upper part 110 and is located between the upper part 110 and the transfer part 200. (See reference...) Figure 6 The lower portion 120 may include a first side portion 121 extending in the xz plane.

[0064] The first side portion 121 may include a hole 21 extending through the first side portion 121 in the y direction. The hole 21 may be located inside the first side portion 121, and as shown in the figure. Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown, it can also be positioned adjacent to the lower edge of the first side portion 121. According to Figure 1 and Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, the first side portion 121 may include a recess located at the edge position on the lower side, thereby having a bridge shape in the x-direction.

[0065] The lower part 120 may include at least one of the following substances: metal and polymer.

[0066] The transfer unit 200 can support the pressure application unit 100 and move the position of the pressure application unit 100 in the x, y, and z directions. The upper surface of the transfer unit 200 may have a flat surface so as to support the pressure application unit 100.

[0067] The transfer unit 200 may have an elongated shape in the x-direction corresponding to the plurality of pressure application units 100 arranged in the x-direction, but is not limited thereto.

[0068] There are various methods by which the pressure application unit 100 is supported by the transfer unit 200, see reference. Figure 1 and Figure 6 The pressure application unit 100 can be placed on the transfer unit 200.

[0069] Therefore, the second side portion 123 of the lower portion 120 of the pressure application portion 100 may include a hole 22 extending through the second side portion 123 in the x direction. Here, the second side portion 123 may be a portion extending on a different plane than the first side portion 121. For example, the second side portion 123 may extend on the yz plane.

[0070] The length of the second side portion 123 in the y direction may be greater than the length of the first side portion 121 in the x direction, but it is not limited to this.

[0071] The hole 22 of the second side portion 123 can be configured to be adjacent to the lower edge of the second side portion 123, thereby allowing the second side portion 123 to include a recess and to have a generally bridge-like shape in the y-direction. The transfer portion 200 can be located inside the recess of this bridge-like second side portion 123. The recess of the second side portion 123 of the lower portion 120 of each pressure application portion 100 can be placed in the upper portion of the transfer portion 200 corresponding to the transfer portion 200. That is, the transfer portion 200 can enter the recess created by the hole 22 of the second side portion 123. Thus, the first side portions 121 on both sides corresponding to the edge positions of the second side portion 123 can be located on the side surfaces of the transfer portion 200 and in contact with the side surfaces of the transfer portion 200.

[0072] The fixing member 210 can fix each pressure application part 100 to the transfer part 200 or release it from fixation. When the fixing member 210 is in the released state, the position of the pressure application part 100 relative to the transfer part 200 can be changed, and when the fixing member 210 is fixed, the position of the pressure application part 100 relative to the transfer part 200 can be fixed.

[0073] As an example of the fixing component 210, bolts can be used.

[0074] Reference Figure 6 Each fixing component 210 may include a passage portion 211 through a hole 21 in the first side portion 121 of the lower portion 120 of the pressure application portion 100 and a fixing portion 212. To change the relative position of the pressure application portion 100 with respect to the transfer portion 200, the size of the hole 21 in the xy-plane may be larger than the size of the passage portion 211 of the fixing component 210 in the xy-plane (i.e., the size of its cross-section). That is, when the fixing component 210 is in a released state, the passage portion 211 of the fixing component 210 may move within a predetermined width in the x, y, and z directions within the hole 21.

[0075] The transfer unit 200 may include one or more grooves 201 or holes 201 that allow the through portions 211 of each fixing member 210 to be inserted for fixing or fastening. The grooves 201 may be recessed or holes that extend through the transfer unit 200 in the y-direction. Each groove 201 may be configured to correspond to each hole 21 of the pressure application unit 100.

[0076] When the fixing component 210 is a bolt, a spiral protrusion or groove of opposite shape may be formed on the inner surface of the groove 201 for the bolt to pass through the spiral groove or protrusion 211 to rotate and be fastened.

[0077] When the position of the pressure application part 100 relative to the transfer part 200 is not fixed, the fixing member 210 is not inserted into the hole 21 of the lower part 120 of the pressure application part 100 or only the passage part 211 rests in the hole 21. This situation is called the state in which the fixing member 210 is released from fixing.

[0078] Conversely, when the pressure application part 100 is fixed relative to the transfer part 200, the fixing member 210 is fully inserted into the hole 21 of the lower part 120 of the pressure application part 100, and the fixing member 212 can apply pressure to the lower part 120 of the pressure application part 100 in the y direction, thereby fixing the pressure application part 100 to the transfer part 200. This state is referred to as the state in which the fixing member 210 is fixed.

[0079] The elastic member 300 may be located between the lower part 120 of each pressure application part 100 and the surface of the transfer part 200 that abuts. That is, the elastic member 300 may be located between the upper surface of the transfer part 200 where the pressure application part 100 is located and the lower surface of the lower part 120 of the pressure application part 100.

[0080] The elastic component 300 may be elastic and may include materials with elastic force such as rubber, silicone rubber, foamed silicone, and polymers.

[0081] The elastic member 300 may have a shape that extends in the xy plane.

[0082] The elastic member 300 allows adjustment of the position of each pressure application part 100 of the transfer part 200 in the z-direction and / or the orientation based on the z-direction.

[0083] Refer again Figure 1 One embodiment of the inkjet head cleaning device 1000 may further include a cleaning component 450, a cleaning component supply unit 410, a cleaning component recycling unit 420, and guide rollers 430 and 440.

[0084] The cleaning component 450 can contact and move with the head surface 522 of the inkjet head 520 while cleaning the head surface 522. The cleaning component 450 may have a surface shape that can be wound around a roller.

[0085] Since the cleaning component 450 is in direct contact with the head surface 522, it may include materials that will not damage the head surface 522. For example, the cleaning component 450 may include resins such as polyester fibers and ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE).

[0086] The cleaning component supply unit 410 may be configured to have the cleaning component 450 wound around it, and the cleaning component recycling unit 420 may be configured to recycle and wind the cleaning component 450 that has cleaned the head surface 522 of the inkjet head 520. The cleaning component supply unit 410 and the cleaning component recycling unit 420 may each be in the form of rollers.

[0087] The transfer unit 200 and the pressure application unit 100 may be located between the cleaning component supply unit 410 and the cleaning component recycling unit 420.

[0088] The pressure application part 100 may be located at the lower part of the cleaning member 450 so that the cleaning member 450 can be in close contact with the head surface 522 when cleaning the inkjet head 520. When cleaning the inkjet head 520, the transfer part 200 may move in the z direction to push the pressure application part 100 upward so that the pressure application part 100 can be in close contact with the head surface 522.

[0089] As described above, the pressure application part 100 may be elastic or rigid. When the material of the pressure application part 100 is rigid, the cleaning part 450 may be elastic in order to prevent damage to the cleaning part 450 and the head surface 522 during the cleaning of the inkjet head 520.

[0090] The guide roller 430 is located between the cleaning component supply section 410 and the pressure application section 100 to support the cleaning component 450. The cleaning component 450 between the cleaning component supply section 410 and the pressure application section 100 can be moved to the pressure application section 100 side via the guide roller 430 after being released from the cleaning component supply section 410.

[0091] The guide roller 440 is located between the pressure application section 100 and the cleaning component recovery section 420 to support the cleaning component 450. The cleaning component 450 between the pressure application section 100 and the cleaning component recovery section 420 can be moved to the cleaning component recovery section 420 via the guide roller 440 after passing the upper surface of the upper part 110 of the pressure application section 100, and is thus wound around the cleaning component recovery section 420.

[0092] Next, in conjunction with what was explained earlier... Figures 1 to 6 , refer to Figures 7 to 10 This section describes an inkjet head cleaning method using an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment. More specifically, it describes a method for accurately aligning the pressure application unit of the inkjet head cleaning apparatus to each inkjet head before actually cleaning them.

[0093] Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The steps of aligning and fixing the pressure application part of the inkjet head cleaning device according to an embodiment to the inkjet head are shown in sequence.

[0094] First refer to Figure 7 With the fixing member 210 released, one or more pressure application parts 100 are located on the transfer part 200 and the inkjet head cleaning device 1000 is located below the inkjet device 2000.

[0095] Next, refer to Figure 8 With the fixing member 210 released, the transfer unit 200 and the pressure application unit 100 or the inkjet head cleaning device 1000 are moved toward the inkjet head 520 side of the inkjet device 2000 (see reference). Figure 8 (The hollow arrow), or move the inkjet unit 2000 downwards so that the pressure application part 100 and the inkjet head 520 come into contact with each other.

[0096] At this time, the fixation of each pressure application part 100 relative to the transfer part 200 is indirect. Therefore, during the process of bringing the upper surface of the pressure application part 100 against the head surface 522 of each inkjet head 520, the position and orientation of each pressure application part 100 in the x, y, and z directions can be automatically adjusted, thereby ensuring that the upper part 110 of the pressure application part 100 accurately matches the head surface 522 including the nozzle surface 521. Simultaneously, the transfer part 200 applies pressure towards the head surface 522.

[0097] Furthermore, the position and orientation of the pressure application part 100 can be automatically adjusted by the elastic member 300 located between the surfaces of the transfer part 200 and the pressure application part 100, so that the upper part 110 of the pressure application part 100 can be adjusted to accurately fit the head surface 522.

[0098] Next, refer to Figure 9 ,exist Figure 8 In the state of the transfer section 200, the fixing member 210 is rotated toward the transfer section 200 or the fixing member 210 is inserted into the transfer section 200 to fix the fixing member 210 to the transfer section 200, thereby fixing the pressure application section 100 to the transfer section 200.

[0099] Next, refer to Figure 10 With the fixing member 210 fixed, the transfer unit 200 and the pressure application unit 100 or the inkjet head cleaning device 1000 are moved toward the side away from the inkjet head 520 (see reference). Figure 10 (The hollow arrow), or move the inkjet unit 2000 upward, so that the pressure application part 100 and the inkjet head 520 are moved away from each other.

[0100] Therefore, the upper part 110 of the pressure application part 100 can be accurately aligned with the head surface 522 of the nozzle surface 521 of each inkjet head 520 of the inkjet device 2000 that is to be cleaned.

[0101] In the subsequent steps, the inkjet head cleaning device 1000 and the inkjet device 2000, which are fixed with the fixing member 210, are moved closer to each other so that the upper part 110 of the pressure application part 100 is pressed tightly against the head surface 522 of the inkjet head 520 and the inkjet head cleaning device 1000 is driven so that the head surface 522 of the inkjet head 520, including the nozzle surface 521, can be effectively and cleanly cleaned by the moving cleaning member 450.

[0102] When replacing or altering the inkjet head 520, assembly tolerances may arise between the inkjet head 520 and the carrier 510. However, according to this embodiment, even if such assembly tolerances exist, the position and orientation of the pressure application section 100 of the inkjet head cleaning device 1000 can be precisely adjusted to accurately contact the head surface 522 of the inkjet head 520 before cleaning. Therefore, pressure from the pressure application section 100 can be accurately applied to the head surface 522 of the inkjet head 520, and the nozzle surface 521 can be cleaned more effectively.

[0103] Furthermore, without needing to replace the inkjet head cleaning device 1000, the upper part 110 of the pressure application part 100 can be adjusted to match the head surface 522 of each inkjet head 520 simply by operating the fixing part 210.

[0104] Therefore, ink can be ejected normally from all nozzles of the inkjet head 520, and the number of normal nozzles that can be used during the inkjet process can be increased, thereby reducing the inkjet printing time on a substrate. As a result, the number of substrates that can be produced per unit time increases, thereby improving productivity.

[0105] Next, referring to the previously described attached diagram, Figure 11 and Figure 12 This describes an inkjet head cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0106] Figure 11 The illustration shows a state in which the conveying section and pressure application section of an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment are not fixed, and Figure 12 The illustration shows the state in which the conveying part and the pressure application part of the inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment are fixed.

[0107] Reference Figure 11 The inkjet head cleaning device 1000A involved in this embodiment is largely the same as the inkjet head cleaning device 1000 involved in a previously described embodiment, but may include a fixing component 220 instead of a fixing component 210.

[0108] The fixing member 220 may be a movable part that can move within the hole 21 of the pressure application part 100. The position of the fixing member 220 can be changed by a motor or manually. When a motor is used, a control unit such as an engineering cylinder that can control the position of the fixing member 220 may also be provided in the transfer part 200.

[0109] Before the pressure application section 100 of the inkjet head cleaning device 1000A is accurately aligned, such as Figure 11 As shown, the fixing component 220 is in a released state, and then, as previously described... Figures 7 to 10 After the pressure application section 100 is aligned with the head surface 522 of each inkjet head 520 as shown in the steps, Figure 12 As shown, the fixing member 220 can be fixed. If the fixing member 220 is fixed, the fixing member 220 applies pressure to the first side portion 121 of the pressure applying portion 100, so that the first side portion 121 of the lower part of the pressure applying portion 100 can contact the side of the transfer portion 200 and be fixed.

[0110] Next, referring to the previously described attached diagram, Figure 13 This describes an inkjet head cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0111] Figure 13 The diagram shows the transfer section and pressure application section of an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0112] Reference Figure 13 The inkjet head cleaning device 1000B described in this embodiment is largely the same as the inkjet head cleaning device 1000 described in a previously described embodiment, but the transfer section and the pressure application section may be different.

[0113] One embodiment of the inkjet head cleaning apparatus 1000B includes one or more pressure application units 100A and transfer units 200A. In this embodiment, an example including multiple pressure application units 100A will be mainly described.

[0114] Multiple pressure application units 100A can be arranged in the x-direction.

[0115] Each pressure application part 100A is largely the same as the pressure application part 100 described above, but the second side part 123A may not include the hole 22 and instead has a flat surface.

[0116] The transfer unit 200A may have an internal space capable of housing and supporting the pressure application unit 100A. The transfer unit 200A can move in the x, y, and z directions while the pressure application unit 100A is mounted in the internal space. The upper surface of the bottom of the transfer unit 200A may have a flat surface to support the pressure application unit 100A.

[0117] The transfer unit 200A may have a shape that is elongated in the x-direction, corresponding to the plurality of pressure application units 100A arranged in the x-direction, but is not limited thereto.

[0118] The bottom surface of each pressure application part 100A may be located on the upper surface of the bottom of the transfer part 200A that forms the internal space.

[0119] As described in the previously described embodiment, the elastic member 310, such as the elastic member 300, can be located between the bottom surface of each pressure application part 100A and the surface that abuts against the transfer part 200A.

[0120] The first side portion 121A of the pressure application part 100A may include a hole 21A or a groove 21A formed in the y direction. The hole 21A may extend through the first side portion 121A in the y direction, or it may be a groove with a predetermined depth.

[0121] Hole 21A may be located inside the first side portion 121A, and as Figure 13 The portion shown can also be positioned adjacent to the lower edge of the first side portion 121A. Therefore, the first side portion 121A may include a recess located at the lower edge, thus having a bridge-like shape in the x-direction.

[0122] The side portion of the transfer unit 200A may include one or more holes 201A through which the passage portions 211 of each fixing member 210 can pass. The holes 201A may penetrate the transfer unit 200 in the y-reverse direction.

[0123] When the fixing component 210 is a bolt, a spiral protrusion or groove of opposite shape may be formed on the inner surface of the hole 201A for the bolt to be rotated and fastened by the spiral groove or protrusion of the bolt passage 211.

[0124] Each hole 21A of the pressure application section 100A can be configured to correspond to each hole 201A of the transfer section 200A.

[0125] As the end portion of the through portion 211 of the fixing member 210, which has passed through the hole 201A, enters the hole 21A of the pressure application portion 100A and is fixed, the fixing member 210 can be fixed. Thus, each pressure application portion 100A can be fixed to the transfer portion 200A. At this time, the first side portion 121A of the lower part of the pressure application portion 100A can contact the inner side surface of the transfer portion 200A and apply pressure to it.

[0126] In order to change the relative position of the pressure application part 100A with respect to the transfer part 200A, the size of the hole 21A in the xy plane can be larger than the size of the through part 211 of the fixing member 210 in the xy plane. That is, when the fixing member 210 is in the released state, the through part 211 of the fixing member 210 can move within a predetermined width in the x, y, and z directions within the hole 21A.

[0127] In contrast, the through portions 211 of the fixing members 210, which are respectively provided corresponding to the first side portions 121A on both sides of each pressure application portion 100A, can also push the first side portions 121A on both sides of the pressure application portion 100A inward after passing through the through holes 201A, thereby fixing the position of the pressure application portion 100A. In this case, the holes 21A may not be formed in the pressure application portion 100A, and the first side portions 121A may have flat surfaces.

[0128] When the fixing member 210 is in the unfixed state, the position of the pressure application part 100A relative to the transfer part 200A can be changed, and when the fixing member 210 is fixed, the position of the pressure application part 100A relative to the transfer part 200A can be fixed.

[0129] Next, refer to Figures 14 to 19 This illustrates an example of an elastic component included in an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0130] Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 Examples of elastic components of an inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment are shown respectively.

[0131] The elastic member 300 included in the inkjet head cleaning apparatus 1000 and 1000A, and the elastic member 310 included in the inkjet head cleaning apparatus 1000B, according to one embodiment, may be as follows: Figure 14 The elastic component 300A in the form of a membrane is shown.

[0132] Figure 15 The elastic member 300B in one embodiment shown may include a plurality of grooves 301 for greater elasticity. Each groove 301 may have a shape that extends long in one direction.

[0133] Figure 16 The elastic member 300C in one embodiment shown may include a plurality of protrusions 302 for greater elasticity.

[0134] Figure 17The elastic member 300D in one embodiment shown may include multiple slots 303 for greater elasticity. Each slot 303 is island-shaped, such as rectangular or circular, and multiple slots 303 may be arranged on a plane.

[0135] The inkjet head cleaning apparatus 1000, 1000A, 1000B according to one embodiment may also include, for example: Figure 18 or Figure 19 The bearing components 300E and 300F shown are used to replace the previously described elastic components.

[0136] Figure 18 The bearing component 300E shown may include a plurality of bearings 304 and a bracket 305 for confining the bearings 304. The bearings 304 may rotate freely within the bracket 305.

[0137] Bearing 304 can be elastic or rigid.

[0138] Bearing 304 may include at least one of the following materials: metal and polymer.

[0139] Figure 19 The bearing component 300F shown may include a plurality of bearings 306 and a bracket 307 for confining the bearings 306. The bearings 306 may rotate freely within the bracket 307.

[0140] Bearing 306 can be elastic or rigid.

[0141] Bearing 306 may include at least one of materials such as metal and polymer.

[0142] The bracket 307 may include multiple sections that can be folded with reference to the folding portion 308.

[0143] The embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art using the basic concepts of the present invention as defined in the claims also fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An inkjet head cleaning device, comprising: One or more pressure application points; The transfer section supports the pressure application section and is capable of moving the pressure application section; as well as The fixing component is capable of fixing the pressure applying part to the conveying part or releasing the pressure applying part from the conveying part. The pressure application section includes a first part and a second part connected to the first part and located between the first part and the transfer section. The first side portion of the second part can contact and be fixed to the transfer part via the fixing member. The second part of the pressure application part includes a second side portion connected to the first side portion, and the second side portion includes a recessed portion, into which the transfer part enters.

2. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 1 further includes: An elastic component or bearing component is located between the pressure application part and the transfer part.

3. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 2, wherein, The elastic component or the bearing component is located between the second part and the transfer part.

4. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein, When the fixing component is released, the position of the pressure application part relative to the transfer part can be changed, and when the fixing component is fixed, the position of the pressure application part relative to the transfer part is fixed.

5. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 4, wherein, The first side portion includes a first hole. The fixing component includes a through portion that can pass through the first hole and a fixing portion connected to the through portion.

6. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 5, wherein, The cross-sectional size of the first hole is larger than the cross-sectional size of the through portion.

7. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 6, wherein, The transfer section includes a slot or a second hole corresponding to the first hole.

8. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 6, wherein, With the fixing component fixed, the fixing part applies pressure to the first side, thereby applying pressure to the side of the transfer part.

9. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 4, further comprising: The control unit is capable of controlling the position of the fixed component.

10. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 1, further comprising: The cleaning component is located on the pressure application part; as well as Multiple rollers are capable of wrapping around the cleaning component.

11. An inkjet head cleaning device, comprising: One or more pressure application points; The transfer section supports the pressure application section and is capable of moving the pressure application section; as well as The fixing component is capable of fixing the pressure applying part to the conveying part or releasing the pressure applying part from the conveying part. The pressure application section includes a first part and a second part connected to the first part and located between the first part and the transfer section. The first side portion of the second part can contact and be fixed to the transfer part via the fixing member. The one or more pressure application units are located within the internal space of the transfer unit. The side of the transfer unit includes one or more second holes. The fixing component includes a through portion that can pass through the second hole and a fixing portion connected to the through portion.

12. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 11, wherein, The pressure application part includes a third hole or groove corresponding to the second hole.

13. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 11, wherein, With the fixing component fixed, the fixing part presses on the side of the transfer part, thereby pressurizing the first side of the pressure application part.

14. The inkjet head cleaning device according to claim 11, further comprising: The cleaning component is located on the pressure application part; as well as Multiple rollers are capable of wrapping around the cleaning component.

15. An inkjet head cleaning device, comprising: One or more pressure application points; The transfer section supports the pressure application section and is capable of moving the pressure application section; The fixing component can be fixed after the position of the pressure application part relative to the transfer part is adjusted; and An elastic component or bearing component is located between the pressure application part and the transfer part. The pressure application part includes a first side and a second side facing different directions from each other. The second side includes a recessed portion, and the transfer part enters the recessed portion of the second side.

16. The inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, The first side portion includes a first hole. The fixing component includes a through portion that can pass through the first hole and a fixing portion connected to the through portion.

17. The inkjet head cleaning apparatus according to claim 16, wherein, With the fixing component fixed, the fixing part applies pressure to the first side and the side of the transfer part, respectively.

18. A method for cleaning an inkjet head, comprising: The step of setting up an inkjet head cleaning device with the position between the transfer section and the pressure application section not fixed under an inkjet device including one or more inkjet heads, while the fixing member is released from the fixing state. The step of reducing the distance between the inkjet head cleaning device and the inkjet head while the fixing component is released, so that the pressure application part included in the inkjet head cleaning device comes into contact with the inkjet head. The step of fixing the pressure application part to the transfer part by fixing the fixing member to the transfer part while the pressure application part and the inkjet head are in contact with each other; and The step of separating the inkjet head cleaning device from the inkjet head while the fixing component is fixed relative to the transfer part.

19. The inkjet head cleaning method according to claim 18, further comprising: The step of cleaning the inkjet head by placing the inkjet head cleaning device tightly against the inkjet head while the fixing component is fixed.

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